Ardbeg – Smokiverse (70cl, 48.3%)

Smokiverse is an Islay single malt from Ardbeg, the first made with a high gravity mash. This mash uses a higher proportion of malted barley, giving more sugar and more work for the yeast during fermentation. It is bottled at 48.3% ABV in a 70cl bottle, without chill filtration and without added colouring. It carries no age statement, but Dr Bill Lumsden, Ardbeg's Director of Distilling and Whisky Creation, says it matured for around 11 years. Cask maturation and production match those of Ardbeg 10 Years Old, apart from the mash. The nose starts restrained, then Ardbeg smoke appears with light fruit and shortbread. The palate is soft and creamy, with unripe tropical fruit and gentle bitterness. The finish brings tar, wet driftwood, beach bonfire and a touch of burnt vanilla custard.