Old Pulteney – Huddart (70cl, 46%)

Old Pulteney Huddart is a Highland single malt with a gentle smoky side. It is matured first in second-fill bourbon casks of American oak, then moved into casks that previously held peated whisky. The smoke sits alongside a salty coastal character, while the bourbon casks add vanilla, sweetness and soft spice. The name comes from Huddart Street in Wick, where the Pulteney distillery stands. In the glass it is a deep gold with a slightly amber rim. It is bottled at 46% in a 70cl bottle, without chill-filtration. The nose has mild wood smoke, honey and green apple, with vanilla, toffee and baked apple with caramel sauce. The palate brings spice, soft vanilla and gentle smoke, with salted butterscotch and a touch of sea water. The finish is long and warm, with thyme and earthy malt.