This is one Big Mac! The seaside Macduff distillery doesn’t release much single malt into the wild. As a Bacardi-owned operation, most of its liquid ends up as a major component of the Dewar’s blends, and any single malt they release on their own comes out under the “Glen Deveron” name. You’ll pretty much only see “Macduff” on independent bottlings like the one we landed here. But what about the liquid itself? This one came out swinging. It’s rare to see a Scotch whisky break the 65 percent mark straight from the barrel, especially at 13 years old, since Scotland’s cooler climate usually pushes proof downward over time. This first-fill sherry butt decided to behave differently, and we get to reap the benefits. The sherry makes itself known on the nose with dried cherries, burnt brown sugar, garam masala spice, and toasted almonds. There is plenty of heat on the first sip, yet it avoids the harsh ethanol punch you might expect from something north of 130 proof. Bold spices and cacao take the lead, followed by dried figs and plums, sherried oak tannins, and a leathery note that rolls into a rich finish. The wood and fruit step forward here, while the spice settles back. As proximity to the ocean benefits this whisky’s production, water is most certainly a friend to this dram. Don’t be shy here - a hearty splash will awaken some hidden flavors, bringing out more toffee, orange peel, buttery pastries, some raspberry jam, and chocolate-covered raisins. You’ll definitely get some more length out of this bottle by giving it the dilution it deserves, but don’t be afraid to try a touch of it neat, if for no other reason than to discover the hidden treasures it will reveal. And at this price it’s a phenomenal value not to be missed.