This Highlander was matured in a Bourbon cask, and given the  woodiness, was bottled just in time. However, the oakiness hasn’t overwhelmed the other notes yet, and that makes this malt an interesting study. The nose is aromatic with vanilla and caramel balanced by cooked tree fruits, notably peaches and apples, along with figs and a slight smokiness. The taste is thick, spicy, and full-flavored with black pepper, chili powder, and cilantro/coriander spices balanced by oak and vanilla notes, with a fruity tartness that comes out as the spices fade. Hints of black licorice and smoke linger through the finish along with the fading spices and fruity tartness. (August, 2013)