Biscuitry, basketry and marquetry

The nose led us into the kingdom of desserts – cranachan, banana split, vanilla, peach and forest fruits, with minimal herbal, floral and twiggy distractions. The palate was another story – yes, juicy fruits, honey and custard, but these were overtaken by biscuitry, basketry and marquetry, cinnamon, nutmeg and clove, heather stems and chewed pencils. The nose took us back again – chocolate pralines, toffee and chocolate-coated caramel shortcake, but somehow infiltrated by chicory coffee and cigar boxes. The palate now reminded us of balsamic-glazed chillies and pinchitos morunos twig-toasted over a campfire; on the finish – woody spice, coconut, ash and tart pineapple.