Morris Rutherglen – Smoked Muscat Barrel Australian Single Malt Whisky (70cl, 48.3%)

This is an Australian single malt from Morris Rutherglen, bottled at 48.3% in a 70cl bottle. It brings together single malt, fortified Muscat barrels and heavily charred oak. The result is described as a mix of dry biscuit maltiness, raisin fruit, soft wood character and a lingering, gentle smokiness. The nose opens with clean white smoke alongside raisin and blackberry jam, before the smoke fades to let the Muscat character come through. On the palate there is charred pineapple, a little smoked paprika and dark sugars, with crisp apple acidity leading to a dry finish. The finish recalls chilli dark chocolate dipped in smoked apple jam.