Dalwhinnie – 1966 36 Year Old Cask Strength (70cl, 47.2%)

This is a cask-strength Highland single malt from Dalwhinnie, distilled in 1966 and bottled in 2002 at 36 years old. It was one of the early Diageo Special Releases, in an edition of 1500 bottles, and is the oldest official expression of Dalwhinnie. The whisky is bottled at 47.2% ABV and is known for natural honey and a good deal of smoke. The nose begins slightly yeasty, with oak, tannins, nuts, grass and herbs. On the palate it is smooth and mellow, turning grassy and fruity with passion fruit and mango, then burnt caramel, tea and white pepper before the oak builds. The finish is long and somewhat grassy.