Ardbeg – Alligator (70cl, 51.2%)

Ardbeg Alligator is an Islay single malt from the distillery's limited release of 2011, bottled at 51.2% in a 70cl bottle. This release was built around the casks themselves. The distillery used the heaviest level of charring, known as alligator, named for the way intensely burnt wood cracks like reptile skin. The nose opens with peat, burnt rubber and fresh seaweed, then orange, earthy notes and liquorice, with a vanilla that recalls burnt-caramel crème brûlée. On the palate there is light grapefruit acidity, fresh apple, sea spray, pepper and sweetness. The finish is long, dry and earthy, with roasted chocolate and coffee.