Arran Quarter Cask – The Bothy (2019)

The Bothy is an Arran single malt released in 2019, matured in two stages. The whisky first spends time in first-fill ex-bourbon barrels, then receives a further finish in small 125 litre quarter casks, which bring more wood contact and a full, creamy structure. The label is plain and rustic, in soft natural tones that recall the traditional bothies, or huts, of Arran. The nose is typically described as citrus, pear, vanilla, coconut, honey and fresh oak. The palate is full and powerful, with sweet vanilla, pineapple, toffee, citrus oil, spice and creamy wood. The finish is long and warming, slightly spicy, with citrus and oak.