This limited-edition release from India’s John Distilleries is bottled at cask strength, but is surprisingly gentle and complex. The nose has notes of dark fruits with plums, raisins, and black grapes, along with a hint of fig cookies, molasses, clover honey, and muted spices. The taste starts out subtle and smooth, followed by a crescendo of spices that builds gradually and lasts through the finish. Clove, allspice, and a touch of nutmeg are balanced by notes of plums, raisins, and molasses. The spices fade slowly on the finish to an astringent dryness with hints of anise and licorice. Excellent! (July, 2017)