Williamson 2012 BR (BB&R)

Berry Bros & Rudd began bottling spirits under its own label in the early 19th century, and trades still from 1698 premises. This 8 year old Williamson, from cask 224, was distilled in 2012 and bottled in 2020. The Williamson label denotes teaspooned Laphroaig: a spoonful of another malt added to the cask, enough to require a blended-malt designation. Bessie Williamson, who took the distillery over in 1954, gives the name.

Held in ex-Bourbon for eight years, the oak settles its phenolic, medicinal smoke.

At its natural 60.4%, vanilla from years in the bourbon barrel. On the palate, a rubbery note.