Duncan Taylor - North British Cask No 39889.

Nose: before you even taste this one, you get the feeling that something curious will happen here: it is sedate, but beneath the chalky calm, something is broiling.

Taste: the lapping waves of maple syrup overrun the oaky beachhead; at first the battle is one of intense spice, then calms for the gentle sugars to march on.

Finish: soft, rather sensual with vanilla content playing a supporting role to the melting grain.

Balance: there is just something about these better old grain whiskies which make you want to applaud. A whisky with a bit of fight, but ends up relaxed and a picture of elegance: surely it is only a matter of time before these grandiose old grains are more widely appreciated.

Tasting notes from: 2009, Jim Murray's Whisky Bible.

Bottling Details: 43% abv. Natural colour. Not chill filtered.