William Grant & Sons Rare & Extraordinary 25 Year Old, 43%

This has a lovely contrast: polished leather, oak and slight char on the nose, then a light, surprisingly fresh palate with a hint of vanilla. The finish shifts toward dainty spices, chocolate and sweetness, with a lengthy, balanced feel. I’m drawn to the way those firmer oak and leather notes sit alongside the gentler, sweeter finish. The nose also becomes more complex and mellow when water is added, which gives the character another layer without changing its understated feel.

Reviewed by saltair.sparrow

Nose

Polished leather, Oak, Slight char, More complex and mellow when water is added

Palate

Light on the tongue, Surprisingly fresh, A hint of vanilla

Finish

Dainty spices, Chocolate, Surprising sweetness, Lengthy and well-balanced