Ardbeg – Uigeadail (70cl, 54.2%)

Ardbeg Uigeadail is an Islay single malt from the distillery near Port Ellen on the island's south coast, bottled at 54.2% in a 70cl bottle without chill-filtering or added colour. Its name refers to the loch that supplies Ardbeg's water. It is a vatting of whiskies matured in ex-bourbon casks with a share from older sherry casks. The bourbon casks bring vanilla, citrus and oak spice, while the sherry casks add dates, raisins and a heavy, syrupy sweetness. The nose combines bonfire smoke, peat and seaweed with lime and dried fruit, and the palate is oily and powerful with molasses and smoked meat. The finish is very long and warming.