S.V. Secret Speyside 18YO 2005 F.F Sherry Butt Foundation 700ml 57.6%

Founded in 1824 near the village of Craigellachie, the legendary distillery behind the name “Secret Speyside” officially released its first 18-year-old expression in 1984.

Aged in a first-fill sherry cask, this version selected from the cellars of the renowned independent bottler, Signatory Vintage, freely expresses two distinct sides of its bold character.

Far from disrupting the balance of its aromatic and gustatory palette, this dichotomy between the nose and palate is a valuable asset, helping it win over the taster.

Colour : Mahogany.

Nose : Rich, deep. Scents of slightly burnt apricot tart, orange marmalade, gingerbread, and cherry in brandy highlight the oxidative and empyreumatic (toasty) nature of the aromatic profile. Gradually, heady fragrances of Russian leather fill the air.

Palate : Refined, nuanced. Floral (antique rose, hyacinth), spicy (ginger, nutmeg), chocolaty, and wonderfully fruity (mango coulis, quince jelly), the flavor palette is entirely different from the nose. Brighter and more extroverted, it develops into notes of sandalwood, emery cloth, and noble tobacco.

Finish : Long, velvety. Situated between the nose and palate, the finish invites us to savor a delicious tarte tatin, apricots, squares of dark chocolate, and mangos. More fibrous, the aftertaste has licorice notes (stick), while wisps of Havana cigar smoke drift in the air.