MacKinlay Shackleton The Journey Rare Old HIghland Malt Whisky

Startlingly bright and pale gold in colour, and relatively light in body, judged by its legs. The first nose is slightly prickly, with sweet biscuit notes closely backed by a fruity complex which combines unripe pear and white grapes with a hint of Seville orange marmalade. After a while the biscuit note becomes softer and more sponge-like and is joined by a trace of almond, with just the faintest thread of smoke in the background. At natural strength, the whisky has a pleasant smooth texture, a light body and a clean taste; a good combination of primary tastes - light sweetness, some acidity and saltiness, drying towards the end with light medicinal notes in the finish. Warming and spicy overall. A drop of water edges the aroma towards dentists' mouthwash; the taste is more salty and less sweet, but retains its spiciness. Clean, light, youthful and fresh overall. (Charles Maclean, worldofwhiskies.com, Feb. 20, 2013)