M&H Terroir Negev Desert (70cl, 54.2%)

M&H Terroir Negev Desert is an Israeli single malt whisky from Milk & Honey, matured in the Negev Desert's extreme heat and aridity. Identical new-make spirit is filled into casks and aged in different Israeli microclimates; this expression is stored in the southern Negev, where sharp day-night temperature swings drive aggressive wood interaction. It is bottled at 54.2% ABV. The nose offers dried apricot, date, toasted oak, cinnamon bark, nuttiness, dark honey and leather. The palate is bold, with fig preserves, stewed plum, baking spice, cocoa nib, roasted walnut and charred oak, softening to vanilla and caramel with water. The finish is long and dry, with espresso, black pepper and sun-dried fruit.