The first tasting note in four days of Tobermory Single Malt Scotch Whisky

The official bottling of Tobermory from the Isle of Mull in a dumpy green bottle with a white stenciled label. The nose …hmm slightly off track here; varnish, wax, damp canvas, acetone and wet dog. Fighting for attention are some sweet sherry notes intermingled with malt and marmalade but the damp canvas and wet dog are the dominate aromas. Oddly hand warming brings forth a pleasant sweet richness followed by warm white wine (think of the aroma of wine splashed into a cooking pot). With water there is immediate improvement revealing malt, summer fruit, oak and gentle pine resin; the off notes are very much muted. The taste is a surprise over the initial bad news on the nose, it’s warming and sweet with malt, marmalade, apricots and a slight hint of smoke (very faint) along with the resin.
The finish is quite long and unusual with a slightly bitter almond and coating mouth feel. Oily, resinous, varnish, oak and honey. Quite different. After a few minutes the malt is all that’s left.

This has actually improved quite a bit from what I remember of this single malt from a number of years ago. Some disconnect between the nose (which show some flaws) and the taste and finish. Most definitely needs water however lacks balance; like a three legged hippo (but fun to watch & all over the shop).

Score 75

£23 at https://www.lfw.co.uk/ 

Tobermory Distillery http://www.tobermorymalt.com/

Tobermory 10 Year Old Official Bottling