Old Pulteney Blackadder Raw Cask 1990/2004 #3951

Incidentally while I was tasting this dram, I was listening to the 2013 album of Swedish metal band Amon Amarth, The Deceiver of the Gods. One particular song was playing that, in my eyes perfectly captured the spirit of this whisky: The Shape Shifter, a song about the Nordic god Loki. For legal reasons I will not refer to this whisky as "Loki", as not to unleash the wreath of the people of Highland Park upon myself ;)

The whisky: Another Blackadder Raw Cask, a miniature. Distilled in 1990, bottled in 2004: 13yo, matured in cask #3951. Bottled at 65.3% ABV (I actually had to check my register, but this has been the strongest whisky that I have tasted thus far)

Colour: pale gold

Nose: (without water): fruity and fresh, lacking the general of coastal character of Old Pulteney, white fruits, pears,scents of fresh cinnamon and hint of vanilla. with water): more hints of mint, eucalyptus and a whiff of coconut. The white fruits develop into a powerful fresh strawberry aroma, what a transformation!

Mouth: (without water) intensely fruity palate, overwhelming notes of pear, like a ripe durandeau, but way to powerful at this ABV-level (with water)pears disappear, and are replaced with notes of coconut, hints of oranges, lemon peels.

Finish: : long, bold and dry finish with spicy overtones: a predominant strong touch of cinnamon.

Conclusion: just great. Like the title promised: a real shape shifter. When water is added the profile of the whisky rapidly transforms into a whole new palate of flavours. Like tasting two different whiskies. But at 65,3% but it felt like I burned my throat, a dash of water please? Highly recommendable

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