Michel Couvreur virtual tasting, 21 October 2021. Whisky #3 Nose: Briny maritime peat, soot, seaweed, musty herbs, driftwood campfire on the beach. Over time there is a note of gunpowder. Palate: Sweet, oily, spicy arrival (ginger, white pepper). Candied orange peel and cocoa in the development with creamy vanilla, red grapes and an iodine note. Finish: Medium/short. Smoky, sweet with lingering spice. I have not investigated Michel Couvreur whiskies previously but a recent virtual tasting event based on 5 expressions piqued my interest. This is very reminiscent of Caol Ila – if that is not the origin of the spirit for this expression anyone could be forgiven for assuming so as it shows the particular maritime qualities of Caol Ila in spades. This very pleasant whisky was matured for 9 years in small PX sherry casks but the oak influence is well balanced and does not dominate the distillate. It is clear, crisp and sharp but not hard. I enjoyed it a lot but as with all the younger, low strength, Michel Couvreur whiskies I tasted at the event I could not imagine why I would buy a bottle when the same quality and style is available from half a dozen Scottish distilleries, and at considerably less cost. "Good" : 83/100 (3.5 stars )