46°
Distilleries Officially Unknown - Islay
Refill Bourbon and Sherry Casks
Independent Bottling
By Elixir Distillers
Core Range
Blended Malt
Launched in 2022
Unchillfiltered, Uncoloured
Peated around 37 ppm
In 2022, the Elements of Islay range changed. No more Single Malts, which is a shame, as these little bottles with code names had a certain charm. And the Core Range is changing its name, and probably its recipe too. The Entry Level becomes Cask Edit, that's probably less scary than Peat, which was the old name. Rumour has it that this Blended Malt is a blend of Caol Ila and Laphroaig, which wouldn't surprise me at all. It's reduced, which makes it more drinkable, and there's no chill filtration or colouring.
Let's Taste It :
Fairly dry smoke, earthy, white lime, sea spray, tide, foam, seaweed. But it is very lemony, with a good pinch of salt and a hint of vanilla. Mineral notes, pencil lead, a touch of soot. A drop of caramel and chocolate, piles of still-smoky ashes. On the palate, it is a bit sweeter, grape pulp, green apple, honey and resin. Spices are present but not too strong, black pepper, cumin. Fairly long finish, relatively calm, chimney fire, braised bacon, perhaps a medicinal touch, peppermint.
In Short,
Of course, it's just a small blend with a reasonable alcohol content, but it's nice. It's exactly what you'd expect, no more, no less: a good dose of peat and character, without complexity or excessive strength. The kind of thing that goes down quickly and easily. The price is often quite low, offering good value for money.
Score : 86
To Be Listened While Sipping :
Mars Red Sky - Strong Reflection
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