SMWS 9.83 Tiger Balm, Limoncello and scented candles (Sample Box No 1, whisky #4)

SMWS 9.83 Tiger Balm, Limoncello and scented candles, age, 56,5 %

I have now arrived at whisky number four in my SMWS Sample Box No. 1. The whisky was tasted blind, but I then found out that this was the 9.83 Tiger Balm, Limoncello and scented candles. Distillery number 9 in the SMWS code system is Glen Grant.

Here is the description of the whisky given by the Scotch Malt Whisky Society:

The aromatic nose carries linseed oil, tiger balm, Limoncello, lime zest and scented candles – water brings biscuits, coconut and hints of smoke. The palate combines peaches, strawberries, ice-lolly sticks, macaroon bars and toffee with chilli, pepper, flower stems and quinine.

The whisky was distilled on 1988-04-18, matured in a refill sherry butt, then bottled in 2014, with a total outturn of 510 bottles. It is now sold out, but if you can find a bottle online, you should expect to pay around GBP 100 for it.

Nose (21/25): Spices and some alcohol pops out immediately. Oak - wet planks. Strawberries and diluted honey. Hints of perfume or incense. Mild fruits, mainly citrus, sneak in after a while.

Taste (20/25): Honey, white pepper, fizzy ginger. Spicy and sweet.

Finish (21/25): Medium long finish. Caramel and honey over vanilla ice cream.

Balance (21/25): An OK dram. Nothing exciting, nothing wrong.

Score (83/100)

Sláinte! - Thomas