Ardbeg – Scorch (70cl, 46%)

Ardbeg Scorch is an Islay single malt matured in heavily charred American ex-bourbon casks, bottled at 46% in a 70cl bottle. The charring is credited to the fire-breathing dragon said to live in Dunnage Warehouse 3. The distillery describes a nutty, spicy nose with aniseed, patchouli and an impression of oily smoke. A splash of water brings out Ardbeg's familiar fennel, herbal and pine notes. The palate is oily and spicy, with antiseptic lozenge, tar, liquorice, clove and pepper, followed by sweet smoke like briar or sandalwood. The finish is long but subtle, sooty and tarry.