[Second Meeting:] I finally got to sit down and sample this dram with no real time constraints, unlike the last time I sampled. This is a story of two different drams: a brief encounter that was great but had blurred recollection with awe and the second where I got to really know the dram and was realized it was not what I expected. The dram opens on the nose with more earthy qualities like tequila with a touch of Caol Ila smoky sweetness (this this what mezcal smells like?). The palate reveals the peatiness, smoke, and then demerara sugar, exactly in that order and not much more. Finally, you are left with a mouthful of ash, wood, black pepper and slightly bitter and oddly, again, tequila-like (that of green, earthy freshness). Surprisingly clear in color like Ardbeg, but without the peaty inviting peatiness (Ardbeg, Caol Ila). However, I was rather disappointed in my second encounter and found it not much more than a blend of malts than a harmony of malts. The second “date” was awkward realization that it was probably a mistake and we’ll bid adieu. [83/100][Tasted: 11/7/16] [First Meeting:] This was the last thing I tasted. Big Peat is highly accurate. Very strong peat nose. Bacon lovers malt. This is a very good, smokey, peaty blend. Look forward to finding a bottle and further exploring this spirit. [Whisky on the Hudson 9/18/14]