Claxton's WH No.8 Speyside Distillery 29YO 1st Fill Tawny Port Octave (46,3%)

This 29-year-old Speyside whisky, bottled by Claxton’s in their Warehouse No.8 series, focuses on concentration and cask influence. It was finished in a first fill tawny port octave, a smaller cask that intensifies the interaction between wood and whisky.

The nose shows immediate depth, with dark fruits such as plum and dried cherry, alongside nutty notes, cocoa and a gently syrupy sweetness. The port influence is clear but remains integrated.

On the palate, it is compact and rich, combining dried fruit, spice and warm oak. The smaller cask brings added grip and concentration without becoming heavy.

The finish is long and persistent, with spice, dark chocolate and a lightly drying edge that provides structure.