1. Smoky Scot
Smoky Scot is a single malt whisky made from the raw spirit of the Caol Ila distillery on Islay. It is released under the name Smoky Scot instead of Caol Ila because it is an independently bottled product. Independent bottling refers to the practice where companies without a distillery purchase raw spirits from other distilleries, bottle them, and sell them under a different name.
Some independent bottlings gain fame for their quality, undergoing additional aging or blending that makes them even more renowned than the original products.
In the case of Smoky Scot, its maturation period is relatively short at 5 years, allowing for a stronger peat and smoky flavor. This is because the peat flavor, primarily derived from the raw spirit, tends to dilute over a longer maturation period.
2. Peat
When discussing whisky, peat is a significant topic in terms of flavor and aroma. My personal encounter with peat felt like dealing with a highly polarizing spice. Those who enjoy it seek it out continually, while those who dislike it tend to avoid it due to its distinctive taste and smell.
Peat aroma, which can be described in various terms such as medicinal, antiseptic, and iodine, is produced when malt used in whisky production is dried using peat as fuel. Peat is formed from the sedimentation of terrestrial plants and seaweeds, resembling soil at first glance. Using peat imparts a savory, smoky aroma to the spirit.
3. Tasting Notes
The color is quite pale, and this tasting was conducted on a bottle that had been opened for about 3 months. Initially, the peat aroma was incredibly strong, with a significant medicinal character.
With an alcohol content of around 46%, the alcohol presence feels quite potent. The taste is somewhat rough, with sweetness and saltiness, alongside strong smokiness and peat. It feels very much like a young whisky.
I wish the peatiness was a bit softer, as it seems challenging to approach. However, it’s good for sharing with friends to convey the essence of peat. It wasn’t easy to drink casually.
4. Product Information
Product Name: Smoky Scot
Type of Food: Whisky
Origin: United Kingdom
Alcohol Content and Volume: 46%, 700ml
Container Material: Glass
Ingredients: 100% whisky raw spirit
Bottler: Aceo Limited(AcL)
5. Overall Review
In conclusion, if you’re interested in exploring the smoky and peaty aspects of whisky, Smoky Scot comes recommended. However, its robust nature might make it challenging for beginners to approach. I’ve tasted it occasionally over 3 months, comparing it with other whiskies.
Personally, by comparing Smoky Scot with Johnnie Walker Double Black, I was able to understand the difference in the smoky and peaty sensations.