Pintail Glenlossie Single Malt Scotch Whiskey, 14 years 2009, 70 cl

Picolit is Italy's most prized dessert wine, made from low-yielding but delicately sweet, intensely flavored white grapes. Grown exclusively in the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region of northeastern Italy, on just 400 hectares of vineyards, Picolit was once considered one of the "noble grapes" of European courts. Protected by the Denominazione di Origine Controllata (DOC) designation, used casks are difficult to obtain, but as this Glenlossie 2009 Single Malt proves, they are well worth the effort. Old Picolit casks have never before been used to mature Scotch whisky, and this is another industry first from The Whisky Cellar. The wine's characteristic notes have been imprinted in this deliciously complex whisky after a second maturation. A hint of toasted oak accompanies this single malt, followed by aromas of tropical fruit salad, candied citrus peel, green tea, and forest floor. On the palate, it tastes of oak spice, buttered brioche, bitter lemon, acacia blossom, light honey, and pepper. Flavors of waxy citrus peel, grapefruit, and Golden Delicious apple round out this whisky, leaving a warming sensation in the mouth.