Battlehill Distilled at Bunnahabhain

Appearance: White wine Smell: Sharp peat with a fruity undertone, featuring pineapple, lemon zest, and cinnamon. Taste: A strong ashy flavor with burnt sugar, subtle hints of tropical fruit, and notes of oak spice and white pepper. Aftertaste: Char, ash, and tropical fruits. Lingers for a long time. Second smell: The smoke recedes, revealing a more pronounced piña colada aroma, with coconut and pineapple being dominant. This drink is balanced at its extremes. Initially, the smoke is the focus, with fruity notes in the background. The palate then shifts from char and ash to sweet and fruity, and the finish has a mild smokiness with fruits taking the lead. After tasting, the smoky ash and char in the aroma lose their peaty edge, leaving only a piña colada scent. This also drinks much lighter than its stated proof.

Superior to the 12 and 10 year old (Ceòbanach). Peaty, salty, medicinal – the latter two aren't typically my preference, but the cask strength seems to benefit it; the potent elements are in balance. There's a subtle sweetness underneath. Overall, it's good, but I wouldn't want an entire bottle.