Cù Bòcan 2006 Vintage

The Cù Bòcan is a legendary creature, a spectral canine said to devour children. When unsuccessful in its hunt, it primarily consumes peat, causing the phantom beast to exhale smoke. This Scottish folklore explains the origin of the lightly peated expression from Tomatin Distillery, personified by this ghostly dog that supposedly appears at the distillery every generation. Accompanied by this captivating narrative, Tomatin has launched its lightly peated bottling. This 2006 vintage is a special release, bottled at 50% ABV and includes a branded glass as a bonus. The aroma is highly chemical and yeasty, with notes of stout beer, chili, sulfur, rubber, and yeast, creating a very aromatic peat. Hints of licorice, coffee smoke, and oats are present. After an initial taste, I detected aromas of sweet bread, macadamia nuts, Danish pastries, and cookie dough. On the palate, it's actually pleasantly peaty. It's peppery, peaty, and earthy, with significant acidity and orange notes. Hints of sulfur and pond water smoke are also noticeable. The finish is the highlight. Aromatic smoke, mint liqueur, new wood, detergent, and wood polisher. In summary, this whisky fulfills its promise. It's a highland malt with moderate peat, a good alcohol content, and very enjoyable flavors and aromas. I found it pleasing. My rating is 87 out of 100.

Sampled at the source, a pleasant smokiness if you want something milder than Islay varieties. Easy drinking, and the background narrative is a good accompaniment.