No festive season is complete without a couple of visits from our favorite Ileach, Big Peat. Underneath his weather-beaten shell, this gentle giant has a heart of gold. And this makes him the perfect guest on long winter evenings that see the sun setting at 4pm and the snow slush lashing against the window panes all night. Since Big Peat knows that his warming presence is all the more appreciated in the cold months between October and February, he releases a special Christmas Edition each year around that time. Containing quality malts from renowned distilleries such as Ardbeg, Caol Ila or Bowmore, last year’s bottling marks a strong and unforgettable sleigh ride through the winter wonderland of Islay. Judging by the color and the taste, I would guess that Caol Ila and Ardbeg are among the most prominent whiskies in this vatting. But that is little more than a shot in the dark. So don’t quote me on that! What you can quote me on, however, is this: The Big Peast – Christmas Edition 2015 is a bulky Islay malt with a lot of muscle and an even bigger lot of soul!

by Tobi

Eye: Light and white-wine-ish.
Nose: Buttery with hints of vanilla and a whiff of lemon far in the back. The smoke is also there, but still a bit reserved.
Palate: Nuances of roasted nuts, almond cake and yellow fruits are followed by a bitter note brought forth by dried apricot peel. The smoke dares to show its puffy face a little more prominently now, too.
Finish: That’s why this fella is called Big Peat! Once swallowed, a thick layer of tar fills the entire mouth. And the high ABV produces a pleasant, lasting burn.

Type: Blended Malt Scotch Whisky
Region: Scotland (Islay)
Age: No Age Statement
Alc. volume: 53.8%
Bottle size: 0.7 litres
Price range: ~50.00 Euro
More info: http://www.douglaslaing.com/ ; http://www.facebook.com/bigpeat/