Ardbeg – Uigeadail (70cl, 54.2%)

Ardbeg Uigeadail is an Islay single malt that marries whisky from ex-bourbon casks with whisky from Oloroso sherry casks, including butts. The result sets Ardbeg's strong smoke against the sweet raisin tones of the sherry. It takes its name from Loch Uigeadail, which lies in the hills above the distillery and supplies its water. It is bottled at 54.2% in a 70cl bottle, without chill-filtering or added colour. The nose combines fruit cake, walnut oil and violets with sea air, cedar and pine needles, then smouldering coal smoke and oiled leather. The palate is full and dense, sweet at first, then winter spice and smoke, with a hint of cigar. The finish is very long and chewy, with raisin sweetness, mocha and aromatic smoke.