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Macallan 20yo (55.4%, SMWS of Canada, 24.117, 2nd Fill PX Sherry hogs Head, 196 Bts.)

“Mostarda di Frutta di Cremona” so says the label and Google translation tool says “Fruit Mostarda of Cremona” which is equally unhelpful. Wikipedia says “Mostarda (also called mostarda di frutta) is an Italian condiment made of candied fruit and a mustard flavoured syrup.” At this point all interest was lost and so on the undiluted nose there is Mostarda some spiciness and honey along with air dried tree fruits and a hint of some form of after shave, something like Tabac (a blend of lavender, citrus, and warm florals – remember that cologne??!!). It’s strong and needs some water, a good dollop brings out some for the cologne notes as well as some oak and fruit. The taste (with water) is good; more of the tobacco, a good creaminess, some more of the dried fruit, sherry and some really good lemon sherbet. The finish is a treat and follows closely in the foot steps of the nose and the taste. A late arrival of some fudge really ties the finish together. The finish is long, long and holds together very well. A very, very late malt arrival.

Very good and unrecognizable as a Macallan. Water improves it but don’t over do it.

$ unknown as the sample was kindly provided by Andrew Ferguson of Kensington KWM Calgary.

89 points

Part one of four examining SMWS of Canada Bottlings….