Linkwood – 1997 18 Year Old Hogshead (70cl, 56.8%)

This is an 18 year old Speyside single malt from Linkwood, distilled in 1997 and matured in a hogshead. It is bottled at a cask strength of 56.8% in a 70cl bottle by Dong Fang Ming. Most of Linkwood's output goes into blends, including Johnnie Walker and White Horse, and only around 2% is released as single malt. The distillery's spirit has a delicate body with a touch of sweet flower. The nose offers green apples and fresh mint over a grassy background. On the palate it is light, with pineapple and papaya alongside a hint of green tea. The finish is balanced and of medium length, with the tropical fruit lingering.