Kavalan Selection Peaty Cask Matured, bottled for LMDW

Another special release from Kavalan, this one a single malt called "Peaty Cask." It's bottled at 54% ABV for La Maison du Whisky. There's been discussion about whether Peaty Casks can truly create a peaty whisky or if using "Peaty Water" imparts peatiness to a single malt. Neither method actually adds peat parts per million to a single malt, but it's true that a cask that previously held a peaty single malt could impart some of those flavors to the final spirit. Upon opening, the aroma immediately presented a tobacco leaf scent. There's a strong, overpowering note of mint hard candy; it needs a moment to breathe because it's too intense otherwise. It has a perfumed peat quality, with some tropical fruitiness emerging, and a marshy, swampy note is also present. The peaty aromas faded after a minute, and then fresh, intensely floral notes erupted – I've never encountered a more "flowery" whisky. It has cooked pineapple and is very perfumed. There's also peach syrup. On the palate, it initially feels a bit thin, with some sweet chocolate notes, then shifts to peach briefly before a spicy, peppery, cinnamon flavor appears. The spiciness lasted about three seconds, after which I could hold the sip on my palate indefinitely. Subsequent sips revealed notes of sawdust and vanilla. It was like water with ashes, starting far too thin. It has salt, hints of smoke, and the acidity of tropical fruit. The third sip was much sweeter, with some sugary notes appearing. The finish is quite interesting. It has sawdust and a lot of ginger spice. The first sip doesn't have a very long finish; it numbs the mouth. It presents as new wood, not smoky or earthy, but like it's overly oaked in a pleasant way that harmonizes with the nose and palate. The length is short to medium. I enjoy a particular sensation here: it's like an ashy note that instantly divides into four particles, spreading across your palate until they reach the edges. I've only experienced this sensation with Hibiki whiskies. There's a very subtle, pleasant smoke. Overall, I believe this whisky is more intriguing than delicious. It's a very good single malt with bold notes, easy to drink despite being 54% ABV. These kinds of "experiments" are exactly what I look for in drams. My rating is a solid 90 out of 100.