La Famiglia Fraternitas Secret Orkney 19 Year Old (35cl, 52.2%)

A 19-year-old single malt from Orkney, bottled by La Famiglia at 52.2% in a 35cl bottle. It matured for its full term in sherry casks and was finished in Amontillado. The colour is a deep amber. The nose has sweet vanilla alternating with herbs such as marshmallow root, with the heather typical of Orkney only lightly present and a restrained smoke just behind. The palate starts powerfully, with spice and sharpness that soon give way to silkiness, and bitter nutmeg, espresso, dark chocolate and honey add layers. The finish is long and warming, with salty liquorice and caramel.