SMWS 118.3 Self-assured, buxom and rewarding (Sample Box No 1, whisky #5)

SMWS 118.3 Self-assured, buxom and rewarding, 22 YO, 57,9 %

We have now reached whisky number 5 in my SMWS Sample Box No. 1. This is my late Christmas calendar for 2015. All whiskies are tasted blind. This particular whisky turned out to be the SMWS 118.3 Self-assured, buxom and rewarding. Distillery 118 is Cooley, which makes this an Irish whiskey.

Here's the description of the as given by the Scotch Malt Whisky Society:

The nose combines pleasant citrus, sweet treats (crème brülée, baklava) and enticing umami savouriness – toasted coconut and charred oak come later. The palate is big and tasty, buxom and self-assured – sherry, vanilla, crème caramel, star anise, fresh fig and citrus.

This whiskey was distilled on 1991-10-14, matured in a 2nd fill barrel, bottled in 2014, with a total outturn of 206 bottles. You might be able to find a bottle online at around GBP 220.

Nose (22/25): Sugar sweet and fruity. Some alcohol on the nose. Vanilla, meringue, red berries, almonds and caramel pudding. The nose improves significantly with time, it becomes richer and gets those lovely almond notes.

Taste (21/25): The wood notes are quite dominant here. Old wood, dry wood, drift wood (a touch of salt). Caramel and spices. Somewhat rough maybe?

Finish (21/25): Medium long finish. Caramel and unsalted peanuts. Ginger and oak. Ripe fruits.

Balance (22/25): I quite liked this dram. Just make sure to let it get some air before you dive in.

Score (86/100)

Sláinte! - Thomas