Unnamed Speyside single malt distilled in 2005 and bottled by Maltbarn. Based on similar releases from other independent bottlers, it is probably a Mac.
Speyside Malt 14 yo 2005 (50,4%, Maltbarn 2019, sherry cask, 175 btl.)
Speyside Malt 14 yo 2005 (50,4%, Maltbarn 2019, sherry cask, 175 btl.)Nose: very juicy, bright and lightweight sherry. Marmalade, sour berries, mirabelles and greengages. Apple peel. Hints of (somewhat prickly) oak varnish and a slight grassiness. A little pipe tobacco and almond in the background.
Mouth: similar to what the big M is releasing lately. Malty notes, marmalade and citrus again, now more nutty notes as well (walnuts, almond). A little ginger cake, white pepper and soft resinous herbs, as well as some plain oak. Jaffa cake.
Finish: quite long, with a toasted, grassy edge and hints of dried fruits.
By no means a sherry powerhouse, but still a nice modern whisky with juicy fruits and balanced oak. Around € 100 from Maltbarn direct.
Score: 86/100