Blair Athol 12 Year Old 2013 Palo Cortado Finish – The Octave – Duncan Taylor (52.7%)

This is a 12 year old Blair Athol from the Highlands, bottled by Duncan Taylor in its Octave series at 52.7% ABV. The spirit was distilled on 21 October 2013 and finished in a Palo Cortado octave cask. The Octave series uses casks of roughly 65 to 75 litres, which bring wood and whisky into closer contact. Here the finish adds the dry, nutty character of Palo Cortado sherry to the Highland malt. The nose is ripe plums, raisins and orange zest, with oak spice and roasted hazelnuts. On the palate come creamy toffee, dark chocolate and nutty sherry notes, with a fine spiciness.