The Lakes, Whiskymaker's Editions, Bal Masque, Single Malt Whisky, England (54%)

This latest from The Lakes Distillery has an ebulliently eager nose of spiced cakes fresh out of the oven. The palate is deliciously toothsome, as macerated raisings join the spice and exotic wood. The honeyed, lengthy finish reminds me of the quality of the casks here, and the talent and confidence of this rising star of English whisky. I’ll be enjoying this with some marzipan-stuffed dates and an evening of Strictly Come Dancing.

Rob Whitehead, Spirits Buyer, Berry Bros. & Rudd (Oct 2021)