Cladach 2018 Blended Malt Scotch Whisky, 70cl

Extremely smooth, with maritime aromas of salt, warm sand, seaweed and varnish that surround a vinous central core, on a peppery base. Rapidly opens into richer notes of honey, lemon and fruit cake. Cooling, with fresh mint and beeswax; then lighter, with sea-air, a floral note and glimpses of smoke. Mildly drying. Later, warm malted cereal, then spearmint and a trace of olive brine.

Medium to firm.

Instantly pleasing, with a taste to match the nose: salty after a lightly sweet start, with faint fruity and oily notes. A smoky warmth, rich in honey and citrus notes. Then sweet, grainy, caramel notes, soft fresh mint and liquorice.

Fabulously pungent, spicy and warming, with a beautiful balance of smoke, cereal and chewy tannins. Orange skin and salt; then late vanilla. Highly compelling and precisely balanced throughout.