Elements of Islay Peat - Pure Islay

Elements of Islay Peat - Pure Islay, NAS, 45 %

The Elements of Islay Peat - Pure Islay is a blended malt product from Elixir Distillers. It contains single malt whisky from several Islay distilleries, but they do not disclose which ones. The official line is as follows:

“Each batch is made of around 60 casks from distilleries in the North and South of Islay.”

I do have confirmation from a “trusted source” that at least the current batches contain a significant quantity of Caol Ila. This blended malt is being tweaked over time, and they have gradually brought in more sherry matured whisky in the in the mix.

There is a cask strength version of the Elements of Islay Peat - Pure Islay as well, called Elements of Islay Peat - Full Proof (see my review).

The is sold in 50 cl bottles and costs GBP 30 in the UK.

Nose: Wood smoke and ashes. Citrus and vanilla. It is malty and rich. Fresh bread served with smoky bacon.

Taste: Medium body. Sugary, and again with wood smoke and ashes. White pepper, grilled oranges and a twist of lemon zest. Briny.

Finish: Medium long finish. Dry in character on the finish. Ashes with notes of citrus, salt and pepper. The sweetness has faded away.

Comment: A rock solid Islay youngster for the peat lovers.

Score 86/100

Image from The Whisky Exchange.

Sláinte!
- Thomas