Taster

Nose: A touch medicinal, first TCP then rubber soles. Rich blackcurrant preserves, vanilla and cinnamon warmth, fresh pear and candied peel, then floral waxiness.

Palate: Unexpectedly sweet before the wood smoke takes over, paired with cinnamon spice and more of the rubber soles. Floral waxiness becomes old leather and pine with a light orange zing.

Finish: Light wood smoke and pine on a medium-length finish.

Comment: It takes you on a smooth journey through Islay, with just enough complexity to keep it interesting.

Score: 8

Taster

Nose: Pear drop and coal smoke. Slightly ashy, with Greek yoghurt and stewed crab apple. Gooseberry preserve and shortbread.

Palate: Plenty more cloudy apple juice and pear drop, with wood smoke and delicate medicinal notes. There’s a pleasant vanilla cream element with sweet malty notes and some sponge cake.

Finish: Medium length. A little hot, but with a solid smoked vanilla character to it.

Comment: A solid, spirit-forward whisky. What it lacks in complexity it makes up for in all-round quality.

Score: 8