Last month we already mentioned the new Whiskybase.com shop in Holland and their own Archives range. The first inaugural release contained a Caol Ila 2000, Clynelish 1997, Strathmill 1974 and this Littlemill 1989.

Littlemill 22 yo 1989 (48,3%, Archives 2011, refill sherry hogshead #RTN-11-238, 120 btl.)

Nose: quite unique. It reminds me of old-style Lowlands whisky, like 1960’s Saint-Magdalene. Excellent surprise. It’s ashy and dusty, with light metallic notes and leather. Moss and different herbs. Subtle fruits in the background (dried apricot, raisins), dried flowers and some almond notes. Lots of oily notes, even some garage smells which remind me of old rums like the Caroni 1974. Impressive references, right? Mouth: spicy start on wood and eucalyptus, quickly gaining bitterness. Not many fruits, some apple maybe. Overall surprisingly rum-like. Growing herbal notes, caramel and some resin. Rather peculiar, very flavoursome but maybe not entirely my cup of tea. Very interesting though. Finish: quite long, again herbal with light oak and over-infused tea.

This bottle is worth trying or even worth buying for the nose alone (they don’t make this profile any more), but on the palate I think it’s a little too focused on herbal notes. One of the most unique whiskies I’ve tried lately and one of the best Littlemills out there. Around € 120.

Score: 90/100