NOSE - Even though it is pushing 60% abv, the nose is remarkably lacking in heat. It also takes a few minutes to open, so be patient. What emerges is more overtly Sherried: walnut, clove, raisin; then damp earth, citrus and light liquorice. Water brings out the spiciness, the dried pepper flakes, and then treacle toffee. PALATE - Tamdhu's fragrance comes across as pot pourri before some grumbly, drying tannins start to grip, which are then softened by ripe black (and blue) fruit and maraschino liqueur. It comes into its own with water: big, headily ripe and currant-like, with a sense of power. Then things reverse, with the floral sappy edge coming back alongside sultana and orange peel. Long and chewy. FINISH - Rich and slightly sweet. Earl Grey tea. CONCLUSION - Aromatically, this sits between the 12 and the 15, but with extra power. We're in A'bunadh territory. This is building into an impressive series.