Peathia Belgian Peated Single Malt

In May 2022, I received a sample of the Peathia First Release at 66%. I tasted it and found that it was too difficult and too hard. Kudos to Thibaut, the master distiller of the Bruges Whisky Company, that he took my judgment to heart and decided not to bottle the whisky. He had something else ready that was more accessible and released that as Peathia's First Release (at a slightly lower alcohol percentage). And look, this 'other' first is much better! It matured on a so-called 'homemade cask' consisting of staves of Ardbeg, Maple and Bourbon, which is remarkable. Sweet, gently peated nose on raisins, Graeffe sugar and speculoos, with anise and almonds, sweet carrots, baked apples with cinnamon and milk chocolate. Despite the young age, this already smells quite mature. It comes in solidly, of course, on quite a few earthy notes and something sweet and sour. The wood is noticeable, the peat provides warmth and a soft smoke development, but in addition it is pleasantly sweet on corn on the barbecue, Reine Claude plums, rhubarb jam and milk chocolate. Quite accessible, does not need water at all and drinks suspiciously smoothly. The alcohol is perfectly integrated. The finish is long, convincing and nice and sweet with a soft smokiness that is not 'in your face'. Kudos, Thibaut, as I said, this one is very tasty and proves – if necessary – that your passion, craftmanship and dedication continue to pay off.