Nose: This is a complicated nosebeast. A scoop of Rum-raisin ice cream and an espresso gelato, cuddled in a bowl of charred oak. It could be a great pairing, and I keep coming back to it as I am working. 10 minutes later and I still haven’t sipped it. Just smells great… with a rich yet dry umami note, nearly cecina or biltong. It could be a seasonal special old spice blend. I took responsibility for a company today and I viscerally feel the dual sides of both a new adventure, and the weight and pressure that comes with it. I don’t have to look far to see an ocean of conflicting complexities. Just hoping the palate, and my new team con find harmony.

Palate: Oh.. huh. The first impression is that it is a touch thin, but slow the duck down man and give it space to speak. Probably the best advice I’ve been given when stepping into a new role. It’s hard to just listen when my body and soul are powered for perpetual motion. I’m listening Hourtica. The palate really blooms with patience. This is quite lovely and coats the tongue with oak, leather, coffee beans and pomegranate. Cloves, nutmeg, and a dusting of dark chocolate. This is an armchair pour.

Rating: 7 / 10 – I’m genuinely surprised by the 7. It was a 6, but then I got to the bottom, and started googling to see how much a bottle costs. And if that isn’t a 7.. Well what is.