There’s an Easter egg hidden in this release honoring Hockey Hall of Fame legend Mark Messier, and it’s not the 11-year-old age statement that matches the #11 Messier wore throughout his career. The whisky is finished in Speyside Malt whisky casks, and the nose is warm and smooth with notes of caramel, honey, and hints of linseed oil and butterscotch. The taste has a pepperiness at the start that’s a bit surprising considering the soft nose, along with a touch of fruity tartness and hints of honey and butterscotch. The finish is long with a lingering touch of spice and a nice sweetness with touches of caramel and butterscotch. Here’s a hint about the Easter egg — take the ABV and double it to get the proof, then think about what the corresponding year meant for Messier as captain of the New York Rangers. (January, 2020)