Compass Box No Name

The best part of Distiller is the community of fellow whisky enthusiasts; in the spirit of gratitude for that online fellowship, and with deep gratitude for the generosity of @PBMichiganWolverine for sharing a wee nip of this outstanding bottle, I raise a toast. To all of you who follow, comment, discuss, debate, and joke around with me on here - slainte and cent'anni, friends! Beyond the warm sentiments, the whisky itself here is a delight. The Islay elements are quite forward - loads of peat, soot, and brine, with a savory quality reminiscent of olives and smoked brisket - but there's a playful spice and sweetness running through the whole of the dram, as well. Instead of simply the brooding heft of the typical whisky of this level of peatiness, there's a spritely vivacity. To steal and modify a description from my favorite wine writer, Karen MacNeil, it's like a medieval war hammer...that's been coated in whipped cream. Really a masterful blend, and a must-have for any serious whisky lover.

The scent was iodine, and lightly floral. This is quite peaty but the finish is smooth and lasting. This limited edition is seemingly a one time only try, and totally worth it. Predominantly Ardbeg, this is a total blend of 6 whiskys and three different casks.