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Colour: dark gold

Nose: Peat, some smoke, medicinal and yet somewhat sweeter than the average Islay whisky. I notice in the background some citrus notes like orange peels and fresh hay. With some water it becomes more open. It's like standing on the beach with a nice breeze. I can sniff this for hours. The citrus notes are a bit more pronounced but not overwhelming. Everything is in perfect balance.

Palate: More peat and smoke but it's not over the top. Some wood, which makes me think of licorice and a hint of vanilla. It's an oil like whisky which sticks to your mouth. Lovely complexity. It makes me think of a very peated Longrow. Can't be bad. With some water it's a tad sweeter. I prefer it neat. It remains in perfect balance.

Finish: Long. A bit softer than the 'heavy hitters' like Ardbeg or Laphroaig. A little bit of saltiness stays on the lips. After a few minutes I can still taste some wood like the Laphroaig QC.

Comments: A real stunner. I'm glad I openend this bottle. Now I don't have to wonder how this one would taste. A big 95/100!!
2010