Loch Lomond – The Nine 2009 1st Fill Limousin Oak Hogshead (Cask 2/6) (70cl, 55.2%)

This is a single cask Highland single malt from Loch Lomond Distillery, part of its series called The Nine. It was matured in a refill American oak hogshead and then finished in a first fill Limousin oak hogshead, which adds a pronounced wood character. It was bottled at a cask strength of 55.2%, without chill filtration or added colour. Only 282 bottles were filled, in a 70cl size. The nose offers caramelised pineapple and fresh apple juice with melted brown sugar and creamy vanilla fudge. On the palate come lemon sorbet and poached pears, then toffee and a touch of ground ginger. The finish is long and spicy.