I’m a little late with this, but it’s too good to just forget about it. This Linkwood 1984 was one of the first releases by The Whiskyman.
Linkwood 26 yo 1984 ‘Eleanor Whisky’
(49,2%, The Whiskyman 2011, 88 btl.)
Nose: aromatic and rather sweet, with fruity elements (apple, apricot, orange). Nicely balanced by some mint and heather. Hints of orange blossom. Excellent beehive notes as well (beeswax, honey, pollen). A hint of vanilla. Fresh oak. Over time it develops some damp earthy notes (not sure about this, but at least it doesn’t bring down the otherwise very attractive nose).
Mouth: quite fruity again (oranges, apples, pineapple) with honey and a malty base. Elegant spicy notes from the oak (mint, ginger, anise, peppermint). A little heather again. Well-balanced with a gentle woody kick giving it some depth.
Finish: long and warm, with fruits and drier notes from the wood.
One of the best Linkwoods I’ve had so far. Great Speyside fruitiness with balanced spices. Around € 120 at the time. Now sold out.
Score: 90/100