Islay Connection 10 Year Old – North Star

This is a blended malt from North Star Spirits, made from a 10-year-old Bowmore and a 13-year-old Bruichladdich. It was released in 2026 as the third in a series, after the Campbeltown Connection and the Highland Connection. The Bowmore was matured in ex-bourbon barrels and the Bruichladdich in refill sherry hogsheads. The Bowmore brings maritime peat smoke, salty sea air and dark fruit, while the Bruichladdich adds a sweeter, fresher, fruitier side. The palate is lively and balanced, with sweet smoke and coastal air alongside juicy apples, citrus zest and ripe peaches, meeting toffee, dark chocolate and spiced oak. The finish is medium in length, with peat smoke fading gently.