Ledaig 10 Year

I'm a huge fan of the Islands, with Talisker as my top mistress. It was just recently that I even heard of Ledaig (or late-chick, as Scott's local wine merchant calls it). I'm quite impressed by it---it's a cross between the brute Talisker and aromatic Islays. I'm getting lemons and brine on the nose. Slight peat, but really not to the level of your stronger Islays. Taste is salty pretzels, orchard fruits, with a hint of smoked sardines. This is a great entry way for folks not able to take an Islay, but looking into something beyond Soeyside and Highlands. I really have to thank Scott for ithis sample, and more so for introducing me to Islanders beyond my narrow scope of Talisker. Thanks Scott!!

Another Sunday evening on particularly cold December evening before Christmas. House is surprisingly quiet; just the wife and me (and youngest playing XBox). Getting in the Christmas mood, with the calmness, SiriusXM Holiday Pops playing (I like this channel at Christmas time), uncorked the Ledaig 10. (Talked with the liquor store owner where I purchased this: to recall the pronunciation, in keeping the story short, he calls it “Late-Chick”; thought that was mildly amusing and would pass it on). The straw colored pour releases the aromas of honey glazed ham, ocean sea salt, malt, ripened white orchard fruit (freshly picked Gala apples). It sweetens as it settles with an increasing touch of mineral/earthiness. A lovely nose that can be inhaled all day long. A sip reveals a slick texture that carries with it cigar smoke/ash, vanilla, honey, in that progression that all crescendos to a balanced potpourri of flavor. The flavors slowly depart giving way to white pepper and oak. A long lasting, warming and drying white pepper spiciness lingers with oak and charcoal with a hint of fennel and ocean salt. A lovely character from nose to finish conjures images of oceanside bonfires. A freshness that is subtle and suites well with the aromas and flavors. Flat out enjoyable. Especially if you are an Islay seeker. Not often talked about in peat-seeker circles, but belongs in that conversation. All this at a highly respectable price. [Dry Glass: Vanilla pipe tobacco][$55][90/100][Tasted: 12/11/16]