SMWS 52.50 Saltwater symphony

SMWS 52.50 Saltwater symphony, 11 YO, 55.7%

Image © Whisky Base

This is an SMWS bottling distilled at Pulteney distillery in the Highland region, Scotland. Distilled 2013-08-27, matured in a single 1st fill ex-bourbon barrel. Limited to 232 bottles.

Nose: A distinctly maritime theme from the start, with salty sea breeze hitting head on. It feels like stepping onto the deck of an old fishing boat: briny, oily, rich and big. Soft peppery notes tickle the nose. With time, a deeper fruitiness develops, mainly orchard fruits, followed by a thicker and more floral honeyed sweetness.

Taste: Full bodied and satisfyingly chewy. Caramel, cinnamon and honey lead the way, with another gentle hint of pepper. The brininess from the nose carries through nicely, keeping the maritime character firmly in place.

Finish: Long finish. The honey and floral notes are turned up a notch, joined by soft oakiness towards the end. Menthol and mint mingle with the rich honey, while the whisky remains maritime enough for any sailor.

Comment: Maritime honey.

Score 88/100

PS! Big thanks to Robert for the generous sample!

Sláinte!
-Thomas