Single-Malt-Scotch-Whisky, Campbeltown, Springback Distillery

Color: Hay
Nose: Smokey Malt, Herbs, Peach drops
Palate: Full and lush. Red Miso paste component. Some fruitiness, but smoke seems almost pushed back…
Finish: 3,2,1 bam. The smoke hits after a few seconds.

They say it’s as nearly as peated as Ardbeg and Laphroaig, but the smoke is veiled. There is a different maritime character here compared to the Islays - it’s salty but no iodine or seaweed to bolster it. Instead, more herbal and fruit notes and an honest maltiness. The smoke hits in the finish, almost as a surprise and a payoff from the nose. Intriguing. After hibachi dinner.

Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Northern Highlands, 43% ABV

Very pale fino sherry color - no artificial coloring or evidence of sherry casking.  Classic Clynelish nose - absolutely distinctive watercress, wet stones, and white fruits. A smooth medium-bodied palate, with a little white-pepper spiciness and a fine interplay between the savory ‘green’ flavors and the resiny peach and plum hard-candy sweetness. Long woody finish - like mild sandlewood / dry sauna flavors. Excellent Clynelish from the early 80’s - when it’s twin distillery Brora was still around.