This Scotch Whisky is 117 proof and does not have an age statement. I suspect, based on its cost ($55), that is it no more than 12 years old. It is one of the darkest Scotchs I have ever laid eyes upon. It is a beautiful, deep mahogany that in and of itself begs to be tasted. It is not chill filtered and is direct from the Sherry cask.
The aroma does not readily belie its Scotch heritage. There is more heather than peat, more dark fruit (prunes, cherries, and raisins) than smoke, and the malt pretty nearly shines, if such a term can be applied to an aroma. The alcohol plays back and forth but allows the other aromas a bit of time and glory.
The mouthfeel is quite thick and the taste is deliciously dark. I will have to come back to this whisky in a few days, because it seems barely Scotch like...........the peat is deiscernable, but mild. The alcohol never roars at you and is managed very well by the intense dark flavors.
Wonderful, rich, deep, intense, interesting............and a bargain for a Macallan Scotch.
Now, let me add a splash of water and see if her character changes.
The nose offers a hint of nuts now, and a wee bit of the boot (leather) and lightens the nose with a tinge of citrus. It may just be more complex with a mite of water added.
The water also sweetens the pot, the malt sallies out in full array, overrulling most of the other flavors. It is not so thick now and the alcohol/spice is just able to play its tune toward the back of the mouth.
This is a flavorful Scotch Whisky and one that I will enjoy a lot.
I do not think it is the equal of some other 'cask strength' Scotch Whiskies that I have had, including Ardbeg Uigeadail (108.4 prood and very robust Scotch smokey and peaty flavor) or Aberlour a'bunadh (120 proof rich and deep malt flavors with a bit more smoke and peat than the Maccallan).
But I know precious little about Scotch, so my opinion is not well-informed, just my own.