We decided to let this Highlands Single Malt mature in the most traditional way, in a refill bourbon barrel, because to us it represents a trademark example of the very old-fashioned style from this unmistakeable distillery, so perfect that nothing needs to be altered. At the nose, we are welcomed by heather honey, plenty of candied orange and lemon peel: very citrusy but also with the typical fat whiff of beeswax. At the palate, it seems to follow a textbook on the “old Highlands style”: plenty of beeswax, a whisper of smokiness, extremely fragrant and delicate while at the same time with a robust body. The refill wood lets the spirit speak, with chamomile, pollen and honey, but without every becoming really sweet. On the contrary, it remains extremely mineral, citrusy and with a spicy touch of white pepper. It becomes more tannic, peppery and firm in the finale with an earthy hint of leather. Very fragrant and long lasting on the tastebuds.