Creag Isle 12 Year Island Single Malt

So, I'm at the liquor store searching for something smoky. Want to try something new at a reasonable cost. The employee suggests this Islay malt, claiming it's from Caol Ila... right. I keep looking and spot this one. It has a 12-year age statement, costs around $35, and is among the other Islay malts. I convince myself to buy it. I open it that night and what the heck? No smoke. Ah, the bottle states 'Island malt,' not 'Islay.' The aroma has notes of candy, hay, some underlying malt, and just a faint hint of peat smoke. There's also a touch of applewood and some salt. The palate offers nougat sweetness with a malty character and brine. Peat emerges, but it's mostly vegetative, though an ashy smoke is present. The finish has oaky, charred malt, salty generic sweetness (like a blend), and peat that becomes mildly bitter. All of this is rather brief without any real depth or strength. Despite that, I don't dislike it; there's something enjoyable about its general plainness, like vanilla ice cream. However, I wouldn't buy it again, as there are many in this price range that are far superior. Apologies for the lengthy review on a mediocre at best Scotch... 73/100... Tastes like a blend, not a single malt, and I can't stop thinking I could have the far superior Compass Box Glasgow around this price.

A sophisticated Single Malt Scotch Whisky from Quality Spirits International Ltd. that has been matured for 12 years in American oak casks and bottled at 42.2% alcohol by volume. It starts with a fragrant introduction featuring hints of cereal, orchard fruits, timber, and piquant seasonings; transitioning into a full and fruity existence with undertones of citrus, dark red fruits, lawn clippings, and nectar; concluding with a well-rounded finish of moderate duration, imparting notes of oak, sweet cream, cocoa, and subtle smoky peat. September / October 2023

Smell Notes of apple and caramel. Palate Sweet apricots upfront, a watery consistency lacking body, a mild sting, hints of peat, and oak. Aftertaste In my opinion, the weakest link. The apple flavor turns sour, accompanied by a dry, tart woodiness reminiscent of green walnuts or pecan shells. The finish is fleeting, with a minor burn. Overall, it's too thin and the finish is disappointing. It lacks a distinctive element. Still, it's an acceptable option for those seeking a light, citrusy, and oak-forward spirit.

I'm a big supporter of smoky Islay Scotch. This certainly fits the bill at an amazing cost. No one would mistake this for a more intricate Laphroaig or Ardbeg, but it's genuinely good, even more surprisingly good for the price. I believe the complexity it lacks compared to pricier Islay whiskies is that at the end, they typically become malty and sweet, whereas this one does not.

I regret to admit this simply does not appeal to me; there are too many elements present. I understand the smoke, apricots, and apple finish, but it's simply overwhelming and lacks harmony. I might try blending this with something to mellow its harsh characteristics. Now, I just need to figure out what to mix it with.

Tastes significantly younger, like a 12-year-old. Nose: Honey. Taste: Honey with a hint of sourness. A solid whiskey, but with minimal peat presence. If you seek peat, look elsewhere. If you enjoy Speyside whiskey, this might offer a diversion. I've enjoyed it, but Ardbeg 10 is available at the same price, and I prefer Ardbeg.