Balloon ride to wicked darkness

The Panel found themselves in a hot air balloon soaring through the warm afternoon air, as fragrant hints of oud, new wood, furniture polish and supple leather rose from the basket that carried them. Far below stretched fields of ripe red fruits, ready for picking. The palate had wickedly enticing notes of black tea, treacle scones, cracked black pepper and the subtle tang of charred lemon wedges, all bound together by a mysterious wisp of darkness. Reduction delivered more wood – this time freshly chopped – plus juicy pineapple chunks, creamy pine nuts and red fruit-flavoured hard-boiled sweeties. We also detected buttery popcorn, crushed peanuts and a delicate touch of perfume. The finish lingered with creamy butter, ruby red tomatoes and a hearty dollop of hot honey.