Big Peat A846 Feis Ile 2020 Edition

Big Peat A846 Feis Ile 2020 Edition is a blended malt Scotch from Douglas Laing, an all Islay vatting with Caol Ila at its core. Big Peat marries Islay single malts into a big, smoky whole, its cartoon fisherman a shelf favourite.

Caol Ila's elegant smoke gives the blend its coastal, citrus edge. A refill hogshead held it quietly, the spirit left to lead. Sea air works into the maturing casks, lending a briny, coastal lift. The spirit's lightness lets sherry, wine and bourbon casks all show through. Time in oak deepens the oily body while the maritime smoke stays bright. A slow maturation in the cool island air keeps the spirit fresh and oily. The peat here is medium rather than heavy, so fruit and smoke share the glass. Malt comes from the Port Ellen maltings on the south of the island. Port Askaig is a tiny settlement on the rugged east coast of Islay.

At 46% it is soft, oily and bright. A coastal peat smoke runs through it, with lemon, brine and a soft oil over a sweet fruit. The oily body carries the smoke long and clean. A long, coastal finish carries a peaty warmth. A characterful smoky blended malt Scotch.