Whisky of the Week review and tasting notes for whisky from the Islay whisky region in Scotland.
Despite the small size of the island and the limited amount of distilleries, the Hebridean island of Islay is considered as one of the most distinct regions. Because of this, Islay has become a centre of “whisky tourism”. The whiskies from Islay are known for their powerful smoky, peaty character.
Currently there are nine Islay distilleries. They incude Ardbeg, Bowmore, Bruichladdich, Bunnahabhain, Caol Ila, Kilchoman, Laphroaig, Lagavulin and Port Charlotte. The famous Port Ellen distillery closed its doors in 1983. Bruichladdich is the only distillery on the island that merely produces unpeated single malt whisky.
Few whisky regions inspire as much loyalty among enthusiasts as Islay. Known for its wild Atlantic weather, rugged coastline, and heavy peat influence, the island produces some of the most distinctive whiskies in the world. Among its most recognised drams are the iconic Ardbeg 10 year old and the elegant Caol Ila 12 year old.
Read More »Ardbeg 10 vs Caol Ila 12: Two Classic Islay Single Malts Compared
Another island-versus-island showdown; this time between two of the most characterful maritime single malts on the market. Today, I am deep-diving into Caol Ila 12 vs Talisker 10, two peated island whiskies that have earned cult followings for good reason.
Read More »Caol Ila 12 vs Talisker 10: Which Island Icon to Choose?
Over the holidays I cracked open a bottle of Laphroaig Select single malt Scotch whisky. Created around 2010, this expression takes classic Laphroaig DNA, peated spirit matured in ex-bourbon barrels, and blends it with whisky that has spent time in a variety of other casks.
It feels like a peat focused year and this week is no exception. The spotlight this week is shining on the Laphroaig Four Oak Islay single malt Scotch whisky. Peated whiskies always seem to beckon me from the shelves when it comes time to choose, and this particular expression has certainly piqued my interest.
A perk of travelling is picking up interesting releases in Duty Free. On my recent travels, I managed to pick up not only the Jack Daniel’s single malt Tennessee whiskey, but also the Ardbeg Smoketrails Napa Valley Edition single malt Scotch whisky.
Today I have a big battle, a courageous battle; the battle of the islands. A side by side comparison of the Ardbeg 10 vs Talisker 10 year old single malt Scotch whisky. Nestled amidst the rugged landscapes and salty sea breeze on the Isle of Skye, is a dram that has stolen my heart; the Talisker 10 year old whisky.