A heady aroma on this one we agreed, as big initial notes of hothouse flowers, condensed milk and sultanas were all recorded. The Panel also noted sweet dessert wines, camphor and some dustier, earthier undertones. Reduction brought a more playful, sweeter side with hints of honeycomb, rice wine, strawberry sherbet and spiced pumpernickel bread. The palate was full-on earthy and sticky! Lots of rich notes included shoe leather, bouillon stocks, treacle, barbecue glaze and a refreshing menthol sensation on the swallow. Water brought more complex flavours that implied tree bark, strawberry chewing tobacco, buttery hot cross buns and game-meat gravy. This was matured in a bourbon barrel for 10 years before being transferred to a first fill ex-bodega PX sherry barrique.

USA allocation: 84 bottles