Grant's Ale Cask Finish

This NAS blend is quite unusual in that it is finished in beer barrels, which I believe held Innis & Gunn ale (an Edinburgh brewery). Of course, being Grant's, this will have a mix of Balvenie, Glenfiddich, Kininvie, grain from Girvan and who knows what else. This is an older bottling that has been open for some time (though I'm not sure how long). Many thanks to Ross Allen for letting me sample this.

The colour is a light brownish gold (almost a beer colour!) Quite malty on the nose, with dark honey, overripe banana, heather, a hint of mango - quite herbal and fruity. A very light, slight ale character, with a touch of oak. Water brings out some floral notes. Very nice though nothing special.

On the palate this is quite creamy, with more dark honey, malt and lots of fruit: papaya, peach, citrus. A hint of smoke. Again, there is a quality reminiscent of ale - a mouth-puckering tartness that is a nice compliment to the creamy mouthfeel. Water makes it even creamier - a very nice addition. Very interesting and delicious.

The finish is a little hoppy (or is that my imagination?) with some spice and citrus - also some tart apple at the very death. This is unusual and very enjoyable - easy to drink and different enough to feel very novel. But it doesn't fully work for me - I prefer the standard Grant's Family Reserve, and would probably rather drink that with a bottle of Innis & Gunn. Still, worth seeking out and trying if you can.

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