Syleo scored this whisky 75 points 
The “brave” first matured in ex-bourbon barrels, then moved to 30-year-old Matusalem Oloroso Butts and finally received a finish in Douro Port Pipes. Certainly a drinkable and in principle also delicious malt, but not a real star. On the positive side, however, it should be noted that I have never given the Valor to anyone - whether whisky enthusiast or newcomer - who did not like it at all.
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After pouring, the amber and cognac color beckons to the first nose. Then comes the first surprise - sherry sweetness is initially absent, green apples and a light citrus dash like lemongrass, but overall quite thin. So first cover it and let it breathe a bit afterwards. Aha, now comes the typical sherry note, some port appeal and also clear caramel and a hint of vanilla. But it doesn't come across as really dominant, only when the nose almost touches the edge of the glass are raisins and dried plums added, the apple remains in the background. Raisins, vanilla / caramel and apple - does that make apple strudel? Not really, everything remains too easy for that.
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A little disappointing. Slight sweetness, slight sharpness - certainly balanced, but maybe too much of it. Nooks and crannies, dominant taste experiences are unfortunately missing. A little bit of wood, also sherry, a bit paradoxical sweet bitterness when circling in the mouth like traditional marzipan with a high proportion of almonds. Sniffing in between: oh - now there is only caramel sweetness!
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Another sip and a short finish reminds me of tree bark.
