Clynelish 14 Year Old

I'm a little undecided about Clynelish 14 yo, although I'd give it a solid thumbs-up overall. It has a one-of-a-kind nose and taste, but I'm still trying to figure out what's going on in the finish. I've had three drams from a new bottle, and it's that finish that's been the only major change with each encounter.

This one needs a little time and a healthy splash of water to reveal all it has to offer. Too harsh and bitter on the palate when sipped neat or with just a few drops of Adam's ale.

Nose: Some not-unpleasant medicine is tempered with flowers and loads of lemon and lime. Earthy and untamed, and all the better for it.

Arrival/Development: It's off to a great start. A citrus burst with loads of pepper; no soft cream or vanilla here. Turns salty in a hurry, with hints of smoke and licorice. None of the above is especially overwhelming or dominant, so the combined effect is both unique and pleasing.

Finish: A big, long "hmmmmmm," followed by several minutes of head-scratching. Seems to go back and forth between a chalky, quick-drying effect that wipes out everything that's come before, and some bitter caramel/citrus notes. It gets better with time, and with each successive dram, but its erratic behavior remains.

I'd recommend it nonetheless. A fine nose and a pleasant overall taste compensate for an uncertain exit. If I could nose it for an hour, then let it swim around in my mouth forever without having to swallow, it would easily rate a 90-plus.

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