SMWS 64.57 Tutti-frutti, limoncello... (Sample Box No 1, whisky #9)

64.57 Tutti-frutti, limoncello..., 11 YO, 61,7 %

What's with all the limoncello at SMWS HQ? This is the third sample in my SMWS sample box which has had 'limoncello' as part of the name (the others are here and here). Weird! Fruity weirdness!

Anyways... We have reached whisky number 9 in the sample box, and this is a Mannochmore. The 64.57 Tutti-frutti, limoncello... was distilled on 2003-06-11, matured in a 1st fill ex-bourbon cask, then bottled in 2014. The total outturn was 232 bottles. The ABV is a whopping 61,7 %, which is not legal to sell in Norway. Good thing I bought it in liberal Sweden then!

The selling price appears to have been around GBP 42 when it was released, and it seems to be sold out by now.

Nose (22/25): Wow! Wonderful, deep and rich vanilla notes. Really nice! A bit mono, but nice! Powdered sugar, hints of fresh herbs (something a bit minty), and a touch of perfume. Citrus and vanilla cream, mustard seeds and candy foam. Rich honey is the dominant note here after a few more minutes.

Taste (22/25): Rich and thick mouthfeel, like honey. Tastes a bit like honey as well - a floral variant. Vanilla, ginger, and slightly edgy wood notes.

Finish (20/25): Dries off a bit and the oak becomes more pronounced. Spice and honey, with a slight bitter touch right at the end. Medium long finish.

Balance (21/25): Stay warm in the cold winter evening with this 'condensed' penicillin cocktail.

Score (85/100)

Sláinte! - Thomas