The Maltman - Port Charlotte - 10 yo - Tasting Notes

This Port Charlotte expression from the Maltman has been in a Sherry cask for 10 years (Oloroso sherry hogshead). Distilled in October 2004 and bottled in June 2015 at 53.1%

Nose

Thick, sweet, tobacco, bit dry but also creamy, thick pack of leaves in the fall, earthy notes, bit salty fudge note with a mineral side to it. Seaweed and hints of equaliptus with prunes, figs and spices. Vanilla, cocoa powder, nutmeg, reminds me of heated balsamic vinegar that has been reduced. A layer of fruits beneath it all. With some water added the nose gets a bit toned down and becomes more fruity, herbal, earthy and coastal. 

Palate

Like the nose for sure, mixed with chilli pepper and some fruit notes with dark honey underneath. Sharp and sweet, with a "rough" side to it? The mineral feeling again a bit? With the tobacco dryness a bit, but less present then on the nose, letting the spices and fruits come to the front more. Red apple, lemon, pear and melon. With some water added the palate gives a toned down chili pepper note a bit. More the feeling of lush cakes and dessert fruit buffet with marzipan, ice cream, dried fruits and good chocolate. 

Finish

Medium length, with a bit dry teeth feel like from tannins that make a taste like bit bite of dark chocolate and cocoa, but with a creamy vanilla feeling lying underneath with dried fruits. 

Score

7,5 / 10. Bit too dry on the nose. Definitely needs some water to open up, lovely rich thick and sweet balanced feel to it though. Thanks Andrew for sharing this one!