2006 Old Pulteney, BBR Exclusive Cask, Highland, Single Malt Scotch Whisky (53%)

This is an absolutely archetypal Old Pulteney on the nose, with sweet spice and warm barley. The palate deftly hints at the frigid North Sea – just a stone’s throw from the distillery in Wick – with touches of saline freshness contrasting nicely with the juicy ex-Bourbon oak. Citrus peels, marzipan and buttery biscuits appear on the palate, whilst the finish is respectably long, coating the mouth lusciously. Give it 15 minutes in the glass to breathe and, perhaps, add a couple of drops of cool water.

Rob Whitehead, Spirits Buyer, Berry Bros. & Rudd (Feb 2021)