Islay Mist 8 Year

Reminds me of a briny HP12 without the sherry. Amazing for the price. N: vanilla, soft peat, sweet grain. P: more pronounced smoke, iodine, nuts, baking spice and grain. F: brine, salt, seaweed and nuts. Update: youth and grain really showing through when comparing this to CB Glasgow Blend.

I picked up a bottle because I was trying to find an inexpensive Islay blend. I read reviews of other good peated bargain blends (Teacher's, Black Bottle, White Horse and Black Grouse) and found that all four have changed their signature malts due to the rising cost of Islay single malts. This blend's signature malt is Laphroaig and the peat and smoke make for a very pleasant drinking experience. It is a great value for the price.

Currently challenging my long-time Go-To Cheap Scotch, Ardmore Traditional Cask, for that distinction. This is good and simple stuff, a steal at $24 a bottle. The nose is very agreeable and round -- some sweet peat, tart fruits, and malt. Reminds me of Golden Fruit raisin biscuits. Single-minded but solid on the tongue, buttery, very creamy. Vanilla icing comes into play. Touch of pepper in the finish. A best buy, for sure.

For those who like the smoky end of the Scotch spectrum but wince at the price, this affordable Islay blend is quite satisfactory.

The best value Islay around. It's 40% Laphroaig, so if you like Laphroaig but find it a bit much, give this delicious cheapie a try.