Teeling Blackpitts Cask Strength

Blackpitts is a peated version of Teeling from Dublin and I confess that I had the greatest difficulty in appreciating the classic release at 46%. I didn't really seem to understand him (as far as you can tell of a whiskey). And now they come up with a barrel strength version, which goes by the name 'Big Smoke'. Note: the classic version concerns a malt that matured in bourbon barrels and then got a finish on Sauterne's barrels, while the Big Smoke could not enjoy such a finish and is double distilled instead of triple. I'm curious.

Relatively smoky nose with something of apples and mandarins, but also pineapple on the BBQ and something of maritime notes. Honestly, it even reminds me a bit of young Ledaig. Not a problem in itself, of course. A pinch of rubber in the background makes me doubt whether I really like this nose... but it recovers quickly.

On taste it is particularly smoky, but at the same time very young and rough. Apples and pears return, the pineapple is now rather unripe. But... I seem to taste a drop of blood as well as something very floral which makes me a bit more difficult to appreciate. Midpalate appear licorice and caramel. Something of burnt herbs (Provencal herbs on charcoal). Sharp. And yet somehow it works like a charm.

The finish is on the long side with first the smoke and caramel, but on the deathbed again something floral that flirts with perfume and a salty note on the deathbed.

Tough whiskey for me. Thanks again, Benny!