Islay Journey Blended Malt (Hunter Laing)

The color and aroma suggest it's quite young. The scent has a fresh spirit note, perhaps like buttered popcorn jelly beans. There's smoke, but it's more like an iodine candle near the ocean than a campfire or burnt rubber. It also has hints of citrus and honey. The taste is similar to underripe orchard fruit cooked over a campfire, with some brine notes. The finish is lengthy and reminds me of a tack shop. Overall, it's a good value, and I anticipate it will improve with time.

A potent blend from the Hunter Laing Distillery, created by Tom Aitken and matured in former bourbon casks. It begins with a smoky profile featuring peat smoke, iodine, coastal air, red berries, and vanilla. The middle brings a warm, oceanic character with earthy peat, sea spray, kelp, malt, vanilla, and milk chocolate. The finish is a lengthy, maritime experience with kelp and citrus notes. January 2020 / August 2022

Pronounced malt and smoke characteristics. One might assume it's from an island distillery. Exhibits a somewhat sea-like, salty taste. Lighter notes include citrus and honey. The texture is neither too oily nor too thin, leaving a pleasant, slightly thicker mouthfeel. Hints of leather and an overall earthy quality are present. Presented well at 46% ABV.

Oct 2019. Clear pale gold. Aroma of fresh spirit, peated smoky malt biscuits, campfire and brine. Taste of peated malt, smoky charred grain, iodine, campfire and burned grain. Okay balance, young peated new make pure malt finish.

The aroma features a beach bonfire and roasted chestnuts. The palate has peaty ash and pine, followed by a finish that enhances the piney resin with citrus and a hint of fish.

Smoky with a touch of sweetness, this Islay mix is surprisingly enjoyable.