Ardnahoe – Bholsa (50%)

Ardnahoe Bholsa is a sherry-matured single malt from the Islay distillery, bottled at 50%. It joins the standard range and takes its name from the Bholsa caves on Islay's north coast. The whisky spent a long time in Oloroso sherry casks, which add plenty of fruit to the Islay smoke. Ardnahoe is the only Islay distillery to use traditional worm tubs, and its two copper pot stills have unusually long line arms, giving intense copper contact. The nose opens with fruity sherry and orange peel, moving to dry peat smoke and sea salt. The palate is smoky and elegant, with raisins, figs and ripe plums. The finish is long and dry, with peat smoke, black pepper and a salty sea breeze.