Review #018 Type: single malt scotch Proof: 50% Comments: NAS, ex-sherry and ex-wine casks Tasted after: Bruichladdich Rock’ndaal 01.1 (Fèis Ìle 2022) Appearance (no score): Mahogany color. Swirling reveals a thin line sticking to the side of the glass, legs are slow to form. Nose: 16/20 Mixed berries, raisins, orange zest, brown sugar, and just the faintest hint of leather. Palate: 35/40 Big fruity profile up front, plumbs and raisins dominate. There’s dark chocolate and caramel too, as well as some grilled/charred fruit that I can’t quite identify. Finish: 33/40 Medium short finish. The sweet fruit quickly gives way to salt, and then dark tannins and black pepper, the final taste is akin to having just sipped a glass of Syrah. With Water: A drop of water brings forward a gentle smoke on the palate and increases the saltiness of the finish. Total: 84/100 Final thoughts: Given that this blend was supposed to contain Port Charlotte and Octomore I was surprised by the total lack of peat smoke when sipped near. It’s always fun to try the Fèis Ìle releases, and while this is a great dram, I wouldn’t buy the whole bottle again at this price point. Price: £105 Would recommend: maybe Would buy: no  Scoring Legend: 96-100: The perfect dram, absolutely exceptional, nectar of the gods, I will savor this bottle and make it last, 5 stars. 90-95: Near perfect, there is something truly special about this whisky, 4.75 stars. 85-89: Very good to amazing, almost the complete product, 4.5 stars. 80-84: Quite good, very enjoyable to drink, but doesn’t wow me, 4.25 stars. 75-79: Good, enjoyable but ultimately flawed, unlikely to purchase again, 4 stars. 70-74: A solid dram, but wouldn't go out of my way to get it, 3.75 stars. 55-69: Drinkable, 3.5-2.75 stars. Below 55: Suitable for cooking or direct contribution to the kitchen sink drain, 2.5 stars or less.