Chapter 7 Chronicle Secret Islay 8 Year Old (70cl, 49.2%)

This is an 8 year old Islay single malt from Chapter 7's Chronicle range, a series of small batches drawn from three to six casks. It was distilled in May 2011 and bottled in March 2020 at 49.2% ABV, in a 70cl bottle, with natural colour and without chill filtration. 893 bottles were released. The whisky spent five years in refill bourbon hogsheads and a further three in first-fill bourbon barrels. Chapter 7 wanted a noticeable but balanced Islay malt aged in bourbon wood. It won a Gold Medal at the Independent Bottlers Challenge 2020. The nose brings custard, vanilla, smoke, peat and candied fruits. The palate is smooth and sweet, with candied and smoked oranges and fudge. The finish offers young oak, burnt caramel and orange marmalade.