A.D.Rattray Cask Islay

Cask Islay was launched on November 1st 2011 by A.D. Rattray. And while it is a blended malt (strangely enough, the label says ‘Vatting No. 1’), most of the young whisky is from one single distillery. But the identity is kept – what did you expect? – under wraps. It is not colored (I can tell, so pale!) nor chill filtered.

It is immediately obvious that this is young whisky. I get some smoke and peat, typical coastal elements and smoked ham, but also ashes and even some sour cream. Cow-hide and plasticine! The sweetness, in the form of caramel and lime, remains behind. Sharp and clean.

The mouthfeel is somewhat watery, but heavily peated with ashes, soot and smoldering hearth, a big swig of briny water, but also quite a bit of honey and grains. Typical Islay. Surprisingly nice balance for such a young animal.

The finish is salty and drying, but very short.

This is a very pleasant young Ileach, fit to be served with fish. This Cask Islay can be yours for less than 35 EUR.