Not that long ago I tasted a wine matured Deanston, and thought it lacked balance, was immature and aggressive to boot. Yet here I am trying another one of these monstrosities. I must be mad!
The difference though, is that the one I taste today, is a limited release instead of a distillery exclusive. That means a vatting of different casks, instead of a single cask. Quite possible that leads to a more balanced result. Or at least, that’s what I’m hoping here. Otherwise I’m swearing off wine matured Deanston for at least the next 10 years.
Deanston 2008 Bordeaux Red Wine Matured (58,7%, OB, 2017)
Nose: A bit prickly, as the alcohol is quite strong in this one. Sweet and candy-esque at first, with cotton candy and candy canes, as well as a big hit of vanilla and a modest note of burlap. Also, plenty of red fruits here. Not the dried kind, instead very fresh and vibrant. Cassis too, and finally some tobacco.
Taste: A nice creamy texture, with again a lot of vanilla, but also a high degree of spiciness (think chili peppers). Some cinnamon too, by the way. A bit of water helps tone down the heat, and makes way for soft blackcurrants and hints of tobacco.
Finish: Dry and spicy, with some orchard fruits in the end. Medium to long in length.
Rating: 84
Pretty good, although the palate leaves something to be desired. Certainly fairly priced at its original retail price of around 50 euro/pound. Anything more than that, and I wouldn’t bother with it. But hey, that’s just me, you might think this is worth quite a lot more 🙂
Photo: Master of Malt
