By Jeff Evans

Nose

Smoky and woody, with toffee and chocolate.

Palate

On the sweet side, with more toffee and chocolate, plus a finely-judged smoky accent from the whisky casks.

Finish

After a smooth swallow, bitterness gradually builds, with chocolate and toffee lingering. Drying and just a bit chalky, with a hint of whisky persisting.

Comment

A New Zealand take on a ‘dark English ale', blended with beer aged in whisky oak for three months. Nicely done, with the wood influences pleasant and subtle.

By Glenn Payne

Nose

Slightly phenolic nose.

Palate

Hints of smokiness lead to vanilla and combine with hop bitterness.

Finish

Smooth with a smoky background.

Comment

Pitch black that has expected whisky attributes but would benefit from a cleaner palate and more body.