Smells like pear, dried fruit, orange jam on Sasquatch bread. Tastes of pear, Asian pear, a bit of tequila, mescal, pepper, ginger, oak. Finish is quite long for a seven year scotch, but about medium for a higher year scotch such as the Springbank 18. Lingers on the tongue with a hint of smoke and pepper. Finally, a touch of mint.
The cactus influence here is not overpowering as in in the Longrow CV. I heartily approve of this dram. It is a unique taste profile.
The Longrow signature "curdled" palate is present, but it is living a charmed existence in this whisky. The bottle certainly improves after being opened. Oxygenation is a good thing in this case.
The headbuzz from this dram is quite pleasant. Much better than average. Yes, the type of intoxication is worth noting. Most reviewers will not "go there." I will, when it's worth noting. Like some of the phenol-rich drams from Islay, this one does indeed create a slightly unusual psychological effect that allows for a high level of intellectual endeavor without hitting one over the head, so to speak. An excellent dram to help inspire creative endeavors. Take note, ye writers, artists, and philosophers.
Too strong to drink in any significant amount without any water at all, at least for me. I add only what is absolutely necessary in order to keep the fire from consuming the tongue and throat upon consumption.
I would open it ahead of time and give it some air in the bottle. Drink maybe three or four nice healthy glasses and let the oxygen do its work. This bottle improves with air. First opened, it's not nearly as good.
I have an extra bottle of this if somebody in Portland Oregon wants to trade me for something else that I find interesting. Yes, I called the OLCC and trades are perfectly legal as long as no money changes hands.