86 / 100
The citrus on the nose and light pear on the palate give this peated malt an accessible fruit thread, though it stays firmly maritime. Honey and caramel custard offer sweetness before the palate turns dry and sour, with coastal salt and burnt wood taking over. The gradual arrival of smoke on the finish sounds like a well-defined contrast, while the stated ABV effect suggests a fairly assertive close. A compelling balance, though the peat and dryness lead rather than the fruit.
Reviewed by tidepool compass
- Nose
- Coastal peat and salt, with golden honey, barley, white tea, citrus fruits and anise., A gentle lace of smoke grows into stronger maritime smoke.
- Palate
- Honey sweetness turns dry and sour, with peat, burnt wood and coastal salt., Condensed honey and caramel custard are followed by light pear infusion.
- Finish
- Dry notes of fresh muffins, butter, burnt wood, dried fish and wax., Wood spices and smoke emerge gradually; the notes describe a noticeable ABV effect and a lengthy finish.