Islay Malt 7 YO Cadenhead

Islay Malt 7 YO Cadenhead, 58,6 %

Islay Malt 7 YO Cadenhead

This is a single malt from a single cask. The whisky was distilled at an undisclosed Kildalton distillery on Islay, which means it is from either Ardbeg, Laphroaig, or Lagavulin. Informed sources insist it is a Lagavulin.

This will be an ongoing product, as far as I know. This means that the ABV (and most likely the nose and taste) will vary from cask to cask. For instance, the bottle I tried has an ABV of 58,6 %, while the version currently available to buy directly from the Cadenhead shop online is at an ABV of 57,1 %. I suspect the source distillery might also change from batch to batch, but I am not sure about this.

You can buy the Islay Malt 7 YO Cadenhead online at GBP 58,5, or in Norway at NOK 855 (3911501).

Nose: Smoky, fresh and rich nose. Vanilla, leather, salt, red berries, cured bacon, and a light touch of perfume. Slightly grassy or green as well.

Taste: Full on and feisty! Rich mouthfeel. Sweet, spicy and salty. The peat is very much a big presence - slightly bitter or sour in character - but it works a charm.

Finish: Medium long finish. Smoky, spicy and now also herbal. The smokiness appears as ashes and dry wood smoke. Towards the end I also pick up some milk chocolate notes.

Comments: Alive and kicking!

Score (87/100)

Sláinte!
- Thomas