That boutique-y whisky company ? Islay #2 25

Whiskey events are such a chaotic, amazing, and maddening experience. Tiny glasses instead of proper ones. Crowds everywhere (especially uncomfortable now). Limited food that gets devoured instantly. Plus, the onslaught of flavors. After a few small sips, everything merges on the tongue, and a fuzzy head doesn't help. Glendronach 12, 18, Benriach 10 Curiositas, Jameson Cold Brew and Black Barrel, Aberlour A'bunadh Alba, Rittenhouse, Laphroaig Quarter Cask all tasted quickly. Sweet, rich, peaty, coffee (actual coffee, in the Jameson's case), apples, mint, smoke. Then, I got to sample this outstanding, memorable Islay from an unknown distillery, bottled by That Boutique-y Whisky Company. It was a special bottle shared discreetly. I understand it costs about $200 for a half-bottle, which is quite reasonable considering. Laphroaig 25 is similarly priced per volume. I initially thought it was an older Laphroaig, but a more knowledgeable distributor suggested it was Ardbeg. Most online sources agree, though some disagree. In any case, this is a powerful dram, delivering waves of toffee, robust smoke, cooked pears, and smooth leather. My impression was that it's mostly, if not entirely, ex-bourbon, though the person pouring mentioned a possible sherry cask influence. It's smokier and less sweet than Laphroaig 25 and captures all the classic older Islay characteristics. Despite playing it safe, it was the highlight of the tasting.