Arran – Smuggler's Series Volume 2 The High Seas (2016) (70cl, 55.4%)

The High Seas is the second edition in Arran's Smuggler's series, a single malt bottled at 55.4% ABV in a 70cl bottle. It pays tribute to the people who tried to outwit the Government's representatives while making illicit Arran whisky. The malt is peated and was matured in rum casks, a nod to Arran's past role in the black market liquor trade, with a layer of first-fill bourbon barrel adding sweetness and fruit. The nose shows citrus, seaweed, orchard fruits, white pepper and a dry fino sherry note, with burned pine wood behind. The palate is sherbet-like, with spearmint, apple pie, lime marmalade, chilli heat and pine smoke. The finish is long, with apples, citrus and subtle smoke.