Classic (or generic, depending on your predisposition) soft Speyside nose, fruity and sweet. Initially it‘s all apple juice and crumbly pies, but soon additional aromas appear, hinting at the stated age of 16 years: musty wood, spices, some leather and varnish. There’s even a „dusty“ element I normally associate with Irish pot still whiskies or older Glen Morays. A pleasant and, to use an overused term, quite an elegant nose. Of course it‘s all rather soft, given the weak ABV.

In the mouth, it‘s a bit thin/watery, and due to the low bottling strength, the liquid doesn’t manage to match the diversity and depth of aromas that were promised on the nose. There‘s some sweetness and some juicy acidity, followed by soft spice and restrained bitterness. It‘s all pretty indistinct, though, and over in a heartbeat.

The short finish provides fennel and dill notes (from the wood) on a bed of juicy apple and honey (from the distillate).

A very tame and restrained malt that is hamstrung (if not outright strangled) by the low ABV. Though refill-heavy, this could really have been something (perhaps on par with the very good, and equally refill-y Glenfarclas 12) if bottled at a higher strength.

The initial citrus note disappears quite fast. Like the 12er again very malty and grainy, somewhat floral and fresh and therefore more interesting. In the background one suspects sherry influence. In the mouth unfortunately similar unspectacular as the 12-year-old. Quite creamy and pleasant on the tongue with oak, vanilla and honey. Hints of orange and a little peppery. The finish is subtly bitter, a little chocolaty and slightly peppery. Not a malt that sticks in your memory and not a malt you have to have in your bar room at home. But clearly rounder than the 12 year old and good drinkable. 80 points