This is a single malt from a winemaker -- and of course, distiller -- in France. (We have to update our system to allow for categorization of stuff like this)
I really, really like this a lot. Nose of sharp apples and cider, with a strong yet pleasant quality. Grassy, herbal stuff (hay, meadow flowers) and honey join in. Palate is yummy -- lots of caramel, toffee, and semi-rich malt, with moderate sweetness, and a dusting of garden-variety spices. But not garden-variety flavor. Cherries maybe too? Definitely some chocolate. This is distinctive, yet not "trying too hard." Finish is lengthy and continues the theme with the slightest suggestion of smoke. Oak enters discreetly as well, becoming mildly chewy (note: I'm here to collect the bounty on this wookie). This is truly great stuff! It's just incredibly satisfying without being too "big" or too anything. It's one of those whiskies that you could easily find yourself drinking a whole lot of. A very unique single malt that's hard not to like, and brings me back for more, more, and more. Well done. B+/A-
N: Apple pie crumble, lemon, vanilla, oak, and a little peat. P: Gets real big and malty (yeah, kinda a lame descriptor, but you can really taste the barley), moderately oily, then starts to fade into some sweet fruit and whisp of smoke. F: A nice sweet n' spicy wood finish. There's a lip smacking quality to the finish that elevates the whole affair up a notch.
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