Nose: Stewed apples, cloves, nutmeg, toffee, dried pears, honey. BBQ hotplate, grapefruit, pepper, bay leaves, wood shavings, seared pork. A little more savory and herbaceous with water and some added white flowers.
Palate: Pepper, fresh ginger and chili powder to start. Cloves, stewed apples, nutmeg, grapefruit, salt, seared pork, peanut butter. More fresh and lively with water added plus vanilla and the white flowers.
Finish: Cloves, bay leaves, stewed apples, peanut butter, BBQ hotplate, oak. Finish is longer with water and quite juicy.
Last Word: For the age surprisingly complex especially with water added.
Rating: 88/100
Thank you Brian. Also curious about your view its 2019 edition. Have a couple of bottles in Japan though not sure when i will be able to travel there (or anywhere). Hope everyone stays safe and healthy. Take care!