German bottler Earlskine releases a brand new bottling tonight (see my earlier opinions of this bottler).
It’s a 20 12 months previous secret Islay single malt nicknamed Islay Flush. For those who insist, there’s a hidden clue within the taking part in playing cards on the label, which ought to lead you to the distillery. The whisky matured in a sherry cask.
‘Islay Flush’ Single Malt 20 yo 2002 (53,1%, Earlskine 2022, sherry cask, 187 btl.)
Nostril: a mature profile with some high-pitched smoked lemon up entrance. Then charcoal smoke and sea spray seems, with hints of tarry ropes, oak char and burnt rosemary. Black pepper. After some time sweeter notes seem, primarily pastry dough and a few melons. General the sherry affect is kind of refined – I’m guessing this wasn’t a recent cask, or only a quick ending interval.
Mouth: a mix of candy notes (natural syrup and raisin) and a few acrid touches. Peppery notes, natural tea, charred bread crust and liquorice. Mid-palate it turns into fairly coastal, displaying oysters and dried seaweed. Then again to leather-based, mineral hints and smoked lemons.
End: medium, with ashes, roasted grains and lemon peels.
I need to admit I anticipated an even bigger sherry character and a richer character right here. It retains coming again to lemony smoke and maritime sharpness. Ultimately although, it is a good Islay malt. Obtainable later at this time from Earlskine.
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