A bottling from Duncan Taylor’s NC2 Range (non-chillfiltered and non-coloured). The nose has a problem but there is some sweet malt, mild smoke which is good, however these characteristics are marred by damp funky cardboard. With water the smoke and the sweetness are in the fore and the disappointment comes in the form of some mild soapiness. The soapiness vanishes after a short while and the sweet smoke struggles free, which is nice. Water improves the aroma significantly. The taste is very good with none of the unhappiness of the nose and there is really good integration of the malt, the sweetness and the gentle smoke along with hints of dark chocolate. A huge relief after the unhappiness on the nose. With water it is much the same as the undiluted sample but becomes syrupy, definitely better without the water although perhaps a small amount wouldn’t hurt. Again no further appearances from the unhappy aroma gang. The finish is sweet and smoky with loads of chewy malt and some slight ‘green’ hints along with some dry oak. The finish is quite long and there is loads of malt and smoke.

A malt that saves it self.

C$100

Score 80 Points

http://www.duncantaylor.com/