Scotch, "Carribean Cask 14yr" Balvenie, 750mL

Nose: Peach and cotton candy sweetness waft off the glass and can be picked up from several feet away. Oily cream frosting invades the nose upon first lifting the glass. Sugar cookie and candy peach ring notes present an approachable dessert. The nose presents waves of classic, funky toffee vibes that should serve as a welcome introduction for those new to barrel aged malt. Sweet honey is a dominant characteristic of the well-rested glass. Overall, the nose presents rather simple but quite enjoyable. Some characteristics of the American oak can be found. Let's have a sip.

Returning to the glass offers a deeper wave of honey that the palate exudes in troves. Dried plum and raisin notes can be found on deep inhales; everything presents itself rather daintily to the senses. Delicate magnolia florality builds well with time. The empty glass smells of gear oil, suntan lotion, and an old blanket chest filled with dusty bed coverings. There's a nostalgic beauty to be found here.

Palate: Oily, pot-still-induced caramel and sugar cookie tones shine on this dram from the start. The mouth coating is thick and pervasive, with honey, vanilla, and mango. Another sip multiplies the oily tones while adding soft layers of vanilla bean ice cream and hints of pear. The rum finish is barely perceptible here, a testament to the fact that the base whisky is what really was intended to shine. A tingle begins to form on subsequent tastes as nutmeg, allspice, and just a kiss of smoke imparted onto toasted wheat bread can be discovered. My last sip is quite sweet again, with honey prevailing atop bits of floral notes like heather and lavender. The finish is long with persistent oily, pot still crema and black tea. It's easy sipping whisky intended to be shared with friends and family at any time. I find this sips best on a hot day while staying refreshed and hydrated, where it shimmers across the tongue like bright sunlight being filtered through a verdant canopy of green leaf trees.