Isle of Raasay – Core Release (46.6%)

This is the first core release from the Isle of Raasay Distillery, which reached the market at the end of June 2021. It is bottled at 46.6% ABV and is built on both peated and unpeated spirit. The two new makes mature separately on the island off Skye, in first fill rye whiskey casks, virgin Chinkapin oak casks and first fill Bordeaux red wine casks. Fermentation runs for up to 118 hours, which gives the new make a fruity character of sweet blackberry before it meets any wood. The island's mineral-rich water is also part of the recipe. The nose combines candied fruit with sweet smoke and a light sea breeze. The palate is full and spicy, with black pepper, cherries, blackcurrants, heather honey and salted caramel. The finish is long and dry, with sea salt, dried fruit and smoke.