15/06/2018 After-party at the SMWS

The twelve of us come out to light: it is still bright outside, despite it being past 21:15. We lose a few people who are either exhausted by the journey, or have later plans elsewhere, but Volanne, JK, TC, JS, PG and CD are up for a couple at the SMWS. A quick tube journey later, we barge into the hot-and-still-packed little venue.

On the bar, a line of discounted bottles.

95.18 24yo d.1990 A bed in a cornfield (55.7%, SMWS Society Single Cask, Refill ex-Bourbon Barrel, 150b): "what is 95?" asks Volanne. "Auchroisk," I say. "I know little about it, but I never really had a good Auchroisk," he admits. One nostril in, and he is ready to buy a bottle -- or two. Nose: very powerful, it has flowers and shaved galangal. Talcum powder joins the fun, freshly pulverised on baby buttocks. Volanne detects Boudoir biscuits, and I agree with him. Mouth: big, strong, almost brutal, in pure SMWS style. It has forsythia broth, hot plantain and lots of green chilli. Finish: very fruity, here, with nectarine (Volanne), satsumas, diluted mandarin juice and soft biscuit. 8/10

We have just enough time for a second round. I take the staff recommendation (and succinct notes).

73.78 14yo d.2001 Zingy, effervescent and intriguing (57.6%, SMWS Society Single Cask, Refill ex-Sherry Butt, 540b): nose: slightly smoky, then herbaceous. Mouth: gauze, bandages and peppermint. Finish: herbs, lime zest, milk chocolate, white-chocolate mousse and jack fruit (Volanne). 7/10

Glasses pass around and I try other things (a Glenrothes, a Cragganmore, perhaps others), but no notes.

Perfect ending to this lovely night. Now for some rest, because tomorrow is the big one.