By Jeff Evans

Nose

Smoky, whisky-like and oaky with a little chocolate behind.

Palate

Bittersweet, with a strong whisky note after the initial hit of smooth, fudgy, dark chocolate. Tangy oak dries the palate and there's a just a hint of citrus.

Finish

A warming swallow grows into a dry, bittersweet finish with more oak, dark chocolate and a lip tingling whisky warmth.

Comment

The dark ale and whisky features combine really well, with both aspects discernible but complementary. More complex than the Ola Dubh 18.

By Sally Toms

Nose

Plums. Coffee and Horlicks. Ferrous (iron, rust). Bitter and syrupy. The burnt bits from the side of a roasting pan. Something herby too, like a forest floor.

Palate

Very thick mouthfeel. Dried apricots, jammy. Burnt sugar.

Finish

Warming whisky notes in the finish and a lingering bitterness.

Comment

The missing link between whisky and beer. Slightly chilled, it has a more zesty character and is dangerously easy to drink.