Ailsa Bay Sweet Smoke 48.90% 700ml

The second iteration of Ailsa Bay single malt, replacing the version released in 2016, is both peatier and sweeter than its predecessor.

It has, however, gone through the same micro-maturation process as the first edition - one that sees the spirit first filled into smaller-than-average bourbon casks for six to nine months, a process which accelerates maturation before it is then transferred into more traditional casks for several years.

Ailsa Bay Sweet Smoke has notes of damp heather, vanilla oak, creamy toffee and candied orange peel.

Nose: Fresh wood smoke with notes of smouldering damp heather and an extinguished bonfire. Following the smoke is a wave of oaky sweetness and vanilla oak, candied orange peel.

Taste: Beautifully-balanced peat and rich vanilla oakiness, this second batch has maintained the same intriguing flavour meandering between smoke, fruit and creamy toffee, this extra maturation period has developed deeper toasty oak notes with every sip.

Finish: An intriguing balance of oaky sweetness and peaty dryness.

Alc. 48.9%