Images of Tain ‘Tain Talboth’ Malts of Scotland

The ‘Images’ from Malts of Scotland are casks that were ‘saved’ from the blending industry by this German bottler. They are always bottled at 53,2% ABV and the name of the distillery is never revealed. But Images of Tain leaves little to the imagination, I suppose. There are only two distilleries in Tain: Glenmorangie and Balblair. The label states this is a blended malt. So it is very likely a mix of both of these. The color suggest strongly that it is a sherry cask.

Honey, broth and coffee liqueur: those are the first things that come to mind when nosing this whisky. It is quite alcoholic at first. Then some yellow fruit and varnish. Or wood glue. Yes! That’s it! Then some menthol. After a few moments, the nose becomes a little less nervous and offers more fruit, caramel and a floral element. It is not bad, but I am not yet won over.

Nice body, pretty syrupy. It litteraly sticks to your teeth. Loads of spices: nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves and some saffron. Sultanas, peach. Yes, it suddenly becomes quite nice and sweet and the ‘odd’ elements are gone. A sour edge remains, though. Hint of coffee with whipped cream. It has even got a salty edge.

The finish is medium long, honeysweet and warming.

I was not blown away by the nose, but that got better by leaving it to breath. On the palate it is all good. This will go well with dessert or cheese. I would not be surprised it this turned out to be a teaspooned Balblair. But whether the teaspoon contained Glenmorangie, I dare not claim. I even think it unlikely. Around 75 EUR.