This is the second expression from the series of NAS bottlings from OP intended for Travel Retails shops. Those 3 are named after lighthouses in the Highlands around Wick, and presented in colourful boxes at duty free shops. This lighthouse is situated at farthest point by road from John O’ Groats, which sound like a stunning location.
Being NAS they are quite young. I was hoping this 2nd expression would be better than the first one from the series I tried. This one is a mix of sherry and bourbon casks.
Old Pulteney Duncansby Head , 46% , NAS , £ 44.99
Nose: A bit richer and less spirit-y than the Noss head… Nuts and bitter almonds marzipan style. Touch of orchard fruit and sherry. But not much. Feels young.
Palate: still rather sharp but more rounded due to the sherry I guess. Sultana. Baked apple. Spice. Leather and sherry. Hot. Slightly salty.
Finish: Sugar. Dried fruit. Baked apple tart.marzipan and spice. With a wee bit of sea salt.
This is slightly better than Noss Head,I guess the sherry did manage to tame the sharper notes of the young spirit, and add a bit of sweeter notes, and some complexity. It’s still a bit young and not there yet, however. At almost 45 quid, I feel it’s a bit overpriced as well, and I’d prefer the older sherried WK series OPs for duty free if i had to choose.