Linkwood 19 Year Old, Cask #013904, 1993, Berry Bros & Rudd, 46%

maple compass30 Aug

At 46% ABV, the contrast between a light, fragrant nose and a very waxy palate matters more here than the strength alone. Cucumber, a little grass and perfume make for an unusual opening. The palate remains light and perfumed, but wax takes a much larger role and carries through the long finish. I like how that thread gives the whisky a clear character without crowding out its lighter side entirely. Still, the weight given to wax may be a reservation for someone drawn chiefly to the cucumber and grass on the nose. It’s an interesting balance, though not one I’d describe as equally weighted from start to finish.