17 years old, distilled 16th February 2004, 57.3% abv, Second Fill Ex-Bourbon Hogshead, 251 bottles, dram price F

The nose has engine oil, liniment and barbecued seafood with hints of fennel. The body has putty, engine oil, peppermint, liniment, violets and fennel. The finish is liniment, fennel and lemon.

Water brings out tight, thin whorling that dissipates without mottling. The nose gains more smoke and the engine oil is diminished. The body gains lemon and more violet and loses the putty. The finish gains more fennel.

A superb light Islay that balanced oiliness and sweetness with a touch of peat and unexpected medicinal notes.

One for summer nights.

Technical score: 4/5

Personal preference: I’d like a bottle.

This whisky was provided by the SMWS in a preview session - thanks to them for that. Full editorial control has been retained in the tasting process.