Review #041 Type: single malt scotch Proof: 46.8% Comments: technically NAS but compiled of casks distilled in 2015 and 2016 and bottled April 2022 so likely aged 5 or 6 years, bottle 1,493/25,200 of AD/04.22.02, blend of peated and unpeated malts, ex-bourbon and ex-sherry Tasted after: first up Appearance (no score): Burnished color. Swirling reveals a thin line sticking to the side of the glass, it slowly thickens but legs are very slow to form. Nose: 17/20 Sweet and zesty lemon squares, a nice gentle peat smoke, pears, vanilla, and honey. Palate: 34/40 Nice almost milky mouth feel, also very little alcohol burn. Surprisingly simple in the mouth, I get toffee, a wisp of smoke, a dash of salt, and a hint of orange citrus. Despite the lack of complexity it’s still well balanced and very enjoyable. Finish: 36/40 Medium length. Oak spice quickly yields to mild chili pepper heat, then cinnamon and hearty wheat bread. By the end my mouth has a mildly cool sensation which reminds me of having recently chewed on a mint leaf. With Water: A drop of water brings out some additional saltiness to the finish. Total: 87/100 Final thoughts: This is a very nice bottle, being slightly smokey, flavorful, yet not overly complex. It always seems to hit the spot regardless of what I’m in the mood for. Personally I think it’s an incredible value at its current price point as well. This one will likely be a permanent addition to my shelf, and I really enjoy how they’ve utilized blockchain technology to enable full transparency of the distillation process of each individual bottle: https://ardnamurchan-distillery.co.uk/newBottles-detail/184845 Price: $48 Would recommend: yes Would buy: yes 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.