Taster

Nose: Shy at first then comes the cigar, coal tar soap and fruit notes. There is a layer of black treacle as well.

Palate: The smoke builds into a sweet fragrant smoke, apple wood.There is sweetness here that sits well with the peat.

Finish: Peat and soft fruit.

Comment: A very engaging dram that needs a quiet night and a wood fire.

Score: 8

Taster

Nose: Intriguingly different. A strange but not unpleasant mix of burnt candy sticks in cardboard box, treacle, and cigarette smoke blown over a glass of blackcurrant cordial.

Palate: Toffee apple in wood smoke. Apple and cherry Sourz and a pleasant peppery spice. Crystal green fruits in a spicy peat wrap.

Finish: Fruit and peat – very appealing.

Comment: Further proof that Caol Ila can blossom in old age.

Score: 8.1