94

Score

Nc'nean AON First Fill Bourbon Single Cask (No. 18-642), 60.4%

Price: 130 Issue: Fall 2024 Reviewer: Julia Higgins Category: Single Malt Scotch

A symphony of stone fruit, apples, and pears greets the nose: Golden Delicious apple skin, apple tart, and juicy pear are well matched with vanilla soft serve and a hint of anise. On the palate, the texture is fantastic, offering up a wonderfully creamy mouthfeel that’s accented by flavors of juicy apricot, raw honey, and sugar cookie. The finish is spicy—think chocolate-covered chiles and brown sugar Pop-Tart. Water, while not needed, yields yogurt-covered pretzels and more fruit.