Uncle Nearest 1820 Nearest Green Single Barrel Edition 11 Year Old, Oak Cask, Cask #US-29, 59.1%

Sweet corn and oak lead the nose, with dried fruit, caramel and vanilla adding depth rather than a particularly bright edge. On the palate, caramel and toasted oak remain prominent, while black pepper and baking spices provide a welcome contrast. The hint of spearmint is the detail that catches my attention: it brings a little freshness alongside the richer maple syrup note, without making freshness the main theme. Vanilla, oak char, baking spice and sweet dried fruit carry through a long, warm finish. For my taste, the balance has substance and a clear direction, though I would prefer the lighter note to play a larger role against the sweetness and oak.

Reviewed by daybreak kettle

Nose

Oak, Sweet corn, Baled hay, Dried fruit, Caramel, Vanilla

Palate

Rich caramel sweetness, Toasted oak, Baking spices, Black pepper, Hints of spearmint and maple syrup

Finish

Long and warm, Vanilla, Oak char, Baking spice, Sweet dried fruit