NIKKA FROM THE BARREL

A slightly oily arrival that is quite impactful at 51.4%. Fruit first – oranges, tangerines, apples and peaches – a mixture of fresh and tinned – alongside some zesty citrus. These are, quickly followed by a development which moves into intensely spiced wood (pepper) – again, there’s slight varnish here. Throughout the palate, pronounced earthiness and milk chocolate. Reduced, the effect is similar to the nose – removal of vanish and the introduction of coffee beans, creamy milk and biscuits.