Arbikie – 2017 Pioneer Collection (58.3%)

This is a single grain Scotch whisky from Arbikie, bottled at 58.3% vol as part of the Pioneer Collection, a series of spirits made climate-neutrally at their distilleries of origin. Arbikie was founded by three Stirling brothers on the family estate on the east coast, with sustainability central to production from the start. The distillery uses hydrogen as a fuel and grows carbon-positive crops. The nose opens with Icelandic rye bread, honey sponge and cloves, with nutmeg emerging in time. The palate is lively, with sweet rye spice, crème brûlée and dark chocolate biscuits. Baking spice and dry rye arrive in waves on the finish.