Big Peat Christmas (2017 Release)

I bought this bottle to fill out an online order before the holidays. Noticing it was the Christmas Edition, I decided to try it. This blend has been available for a while, and they consistently release a special, cask strength version each holiday season. This particular batch registered a high 54.1% ABV and featured malts from Ardbeg, Bowmore, Caol Ila, and, unexpectedly, Port Ellen. Yes, that's right, "ghosted" Port Ellen. I had a feeling this would be excellent. The instant I poured this into my Glencairn, the air filled with the aroma of delicious barbecue meat and burnt hickory. There's no need to let this one sit; the nose is a blazing campfire of peat, smoke, and brisket. A significant portion of Ardbeg must be responsible for this blast furnace of smoky excellence. The palate is remarkably smooth, yet it still offers notes of charred oak and a touch of vanilla sweetness. However, the focus is undeniably on the peat and the sea air. The high alcohol content doesn't detract from or negatively impact the mouthfeel; it enhances it, and no water is needed. The finish is long, savory, and absolutely stunning. The smoke persists until your next sip reignites the experience. This is a superb blend, even better than another highly peated option I've tried. While it may lack some depth, it excels when you're craving that barbecue flavor profile. It earns a solid 4.5 stars and is a fantastic value at $62. I will certainly be adding another bottle to any future orders that need a spot filled. Purchase it with confidence. Enjoy.

The color resembles that of a Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio. The aroma is reminiscent of Kansas City Rub on brined turkey slow-smoked with hickory, accompanied by a molasses glaze. Caramelized apples and pears enhance the nose, sweetening over time. It's a full meal perceived through scents. The smokiness detected in the aroma is present on the palate as blackened-charred meat. Salted caramel and vanilla sweetness counterbalance the ever-present charcoal. Salami, olive brine, canned pears, and bbq pineapples and peaches are among the flavors. A persistent tarry finish with hints of oak and vanilla sweetness. Faint sulfur emerges at the very end of the finish. The body provides a deep warmth. This expression was surprising, as one might expect an overpowering peated scotch. However, it is quite balanced, with just the right amount of sweetness to maintain equilibrium. The high alcohol content is unnoticeable, making it sip like a 43% or 46% bottled whisky. The influence of Ardbeg and Caol Ila is clearly evident and well-integrated. Many thanks to a friend for sharing this delightful whisky. [90/100][Tasted: 12/23/18]

Shoulder Pour Nose - sugary sweet, peat, hint of nail polish Palate - smoke, citrus, vanilla Finish - ash, but very short for the high ABV Thoughts: Acquired this on sale in early Jan of '20. Motivated by the price, the peat, and the Port finish. This is the lightest colored whiskey in my collection, not a major issue, but suggests a young spirit. The value wasn't outstanding for the cost. There's a reason the bottle remained unsold for three subsequent holiday seasons at its original price. 5.0 - Acquire all available stock. 4.0 - A must-have bottle. 3.0 - Solid, try at a bar or share with a friend. 2.0 - Didn't enjoy it, but you might. 1.0 - Your palate might resemble my dog's, and he enjoys himself.

An intense blended malt whisky created by Douglas Laing from seven different Islay single malts (including whisky from the renowned Port Ellen), bottled at cask strength. It presents a fresh and salty opening with notes of roasted peanuts, sea breeze, hints of spearmint, and tarry ropes; the middle adds notes of campfire embers with toasted marshmallows and milk chocolate; leading to a long and warming finish with notes of oily malt, pine nuts, and earth. March 2018 / August 2022

My tasting notes are for the version from the Drinks by The Dram 2017 Christmas advent calendar, which might differ from this one. It's not bad, but it tastes unfinished to me. It could benefit from more barrel aging; there aren't many wood notes or much color. The peat tastes almost medicinal.

Excellent value for the price. This one is good, far superior to the overrated Lagavulin 16 in my opinion.