This is a blended malt containing 40% Laphroaig, 20% Ledaig, 13% Caol Ila, 26% Ardmore, and 1% Clynelish, Teaninich, and Dailuaine. It is bottled at 46% ABV and is not colored or chill-filtered. The unfortunate name “Peat Monster” will disappoint Islay lovers looking for a peat wallop, and will scare away newcomers looking for an introduction to peat. Peat Monster would have been better named “Peat Puppy.” It is young, it is cute, it is unpredictable, it is energetic, and it is ultimately harmless. NOSE: Ardmore and Ledaig wins over Laphroaig and Caol Ila. Immediately, this is earthy rather than maritime. There is grass, soil, and wood chips from the Ledaig; campfire and fruits from Ardmore. Medicinal notes from Laphroaig are secondary. Some zesty smoke from Caol Ila are barely detectable. The nose is complex and vibrant, but delicate. PALATE: This is a handshake, not an attack. The arrival is as light as the “I-stay-well-hydrated-urine” color. Intensity and complexity builds over a few seconds. A Speyside fruitiness from the Ardmore, with pears, peaches, and melons, wants to assert itself, but is surrounded by layers of different flavors of peat: heathery, smoky, fishy. Citrus and a lovely taste of slightly burnt lard imparted with the flavors of a smoking iron skillet develops with repeat sips. FINISH: I sucked on a few pennies. I used mint flavored floss, and my gum is bleeding. I smoked a cigarette. Copperiness and ashiness. The younger ingredients can’t hide. I suspect the younger stuff in this blend is from Islay. The mainland earthier peat provides tastier, more mature musings: soot-covered dandelions. Peaches dropped into tar. Mmmmm… VERDICT: Delicate. Complex. Balanced. Don’t add water. I have moved on, but this is a great introduction to peaty whiskies. This is a Peat Puppy! Flaming Heart is the “Monster.” MARK: 85/100.