Van Winkle Special Reserve 12 Year Old (75cl, 45.2%)

A 12 year old Van Winkle bourbon, bottled at 45.2% (90.4 proof) in a 75cl bottle. Its maker describes the age and the medium proof as a well-judged pairing, and suggests it as an after-dinner drink in the manner of a good cognac. It is a sweet, full-bodied whiskey with a brilliant amber-orange colour. On the nose it is toffee, rich and complex. The palate opens round and supple, then turns dry and expansive at medium body, with caramel, nuts and brown spices. The finish is long and enveloping.