Appearance: Intense and bright amber.

Nose: Soft, deep, warm but not exceedingly buttery. Sun-dried raisins, dates, coffee and a winey touch.

Palate: Very sweet but well balanced by the tannic and balsamic influence of the oak. Intense, aromatic, rich on liquorice, chestnuts, dried plums, and the typical note of molasses, with a touch of vanilla.

Finish: Getting spicier and spicier: black pepper, a hint of cinnamon and beeswax. Red Virginia tobacco. In the end, though, the sugarcane molasses win.