Craigellachie Souper Trooper SMWS 2004 16y 44.134

This bottle has been slow-moving since it was released in the January SMWS outturn and I think it's because SMWS's tasting notes point out that this cask is very unusual and off-profile for Craigellachie. Their notes were as follows: "We encountered initially a rather perfumed nose. All on new leather hardbag, potpourri, white balsamic vinegar, chopped pistachios, aged white port, powder puff and rice pudding. Unusual but enthralling. Water brought out pineapple cubes, nutmeg, white jellybeans, red liquorice and freshly laundered linens. The palate was full of savoury barley broth, cantaloupe melon, lime jelly, camphor, rolling tobacco, menthol cough sweets, baking soda and sweet juniper. With water we found more savoury notes such as chicken noodle soup, ham terrine, dry spiced dates, spicy peanuts and then things like muesli with dark fruits, chalk and sponge cake." As you will see in this review, I think those that have skipped on this release are missing out!

There's incredible balance between sweet and savory notes, and the finish is loooooooong and truly reminiscent of the best kinds of Kentucky hugs that you find in great bourbon. I'd actually say this one edges out the January bottle of the month, "Ginger Squidgy," that I reviewed yesterday. Check out my IG review page and shoot me a follow over at www.instagram.com/notlawreviews !