Taster

Nose: Massive peat. Ultra-intense iodine carries a shade more spice than of old. The fruity-sherry notes are clean, vanilla is much deeper. Beautifully layered.

Palate: Peat so thick you could stand a spoon in it. Chewy iodine bolstered by sherry and big oak.

Finish: A little spice lightens the grip of the peat and vanilla. Dries off with malt, dried dates...and iodine.

Comment: A true classic in every sense that offers breathtaking depth.

Score: 9.75

Taster

Nose: Lapsang Souchong and fruity sherry.

Palate: The dryness is at first offset by the sweetness of the sherry character. As the palate develops, oily, grassy, and, in particular, salty notes emerge in a long, sustained, aggressive, attack.

Finish: A huge, powerful, bear-hug of peat.

Comment: The driest of Islay malts, and an established classic.

Score: 9.5