Big Peat 1992 – The Black Edition

Big Peat 1992 - The Black Edition is a blended malt Scotch from Douglas Laing, an all Islay vatting with Caol Ila at its core. Big Peat brings together malts from across Islay, Caol Ila among them, for an unapologetically smoky dram.

Islay malts bring the smoke, the lighter Caol Ila style keeping it clean rather than heavy. A fresh bourbon barrel lent vanilla, coconut and a fuller body. Maturation by the sea gives the malt its mineral, sea spray character. The spirit's lightness lets sherry, wine and bourbon casks all show through. The cool Islay air gives a slow, steady maturation by the shore. Caol Ila's smoke leans to lemon, olive oil and brine rather than tar or iodine. Port Askaig is a tiny settlement on the rugged east coast of Islay. The original Victorian distillery was almost entirely rebuilt in the modern era. Smoked citrus and a saline minerality are the hallmarks of the make.

At 48.3%, undiluted, it is bold and clean. A coastal peat smoke runs through it, with lemon, brine and a soft oil over a sweet fruit. Beneath the smoke run lemon, brine and a peppery oil. The finish is long, smoky and citrussy. A characterful smoky blended malt Scotch.