Linkwood 13 Year Old 2006 Small Batch Edition #9 Signatory Vintage

Two years ago, Signatory Vintage bottled this young Linkwood in the so-called Small Batch series for the German Kirsch Import. It is a vatting of three barrels that together yielded just under 1,500 bottles. But at 48.1%? That must have been a conscious choice, because otherwise the angels have been incredibly greedy. My friend Benny gave me this sample, thanks for that.

The nose is very accessible with sherry notes that are present, but do not dominate, so that the fruity character of Linkwood remains nicely intact. Stewed pears and applesauce come first, followed by some vanilla and cherries. Something of nougat and almond nuts. Light and playful, honestly.

Nice and oily, so the mouthfeel is fine. But on palate it is quickly a bit harsh. Fairly alcoholic, even. The white fruit must now make way for dark fruit (raisins, apricots and cherries). The spiciness is fine, but midpalate something appears that reminds me of shampoo. Yes, this one is quietly perfumed. And that does not always work and unfortunately not in this case.

That soapy touch also predominates in the finish, so that the dark fruit and something of marzipan does not get enough chance to show themselves. A black pepper shimmers until the deathbed.

Okay-ish. But 70 EUR is a bit expensive, isn't it? No wonder the bottle is still so easy to get, I think. Thank you, Benny!

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