A fledgling Ledaig caught by Signatory Vintage
Signatory Vintage is not planning on easing down on cranking out new entries in the 100 proof series, and we also read some nice names in new batches. I am hoping to get my hands on a Clynelish bottling, but for today we choose another option. A very young Ledaig with an interesting cask make-up. Tobermory and the distillery there is still one of my Holy Grail destinations, together with Highland Park. One day! For now, we still travel by glass, to the Isle of Mull!
Ledaig 6 years old, bottled at 57,1 % abv by Signatory Vintage
First things first: Distilled in 2020 at the Tobermory Distillery, but heavily peated so we call this Ledaig. This 100 Proof Edition # 76 matured in refill Oloroso Sherry Hogsheads and refill Bourbon Barrels.
Upon Sipping: Ah yes, but this is classic young Ledaig as I remember it when the brand was reintroduced over 20 years ago. Peaty, creamy, ashy, with hints of lemon and smoky sausage. The meaty note adds an extra dimension for sure. Beautifully clean, this Ledaig from Signatory, I was wondering how the sherry casks would influence the balance. We are safe. The taste is incredibly sour on lemons, before the vanilla flavoured ashes present themselves. The finish is another clean experience with again an abundance of ashes. The perfect island whisky, but not a copy of the average Islay malt. With time, the taste gets more brine and bitter herbs, lots of ginger.
With water the nose changes somewhat, we get the impression of salty windswept vegetation alongside a coastal road. Some tarmac but more floral. The taste turns a bit muddy now, with light chocolate elements from the sherry casks but that feels out of place. The finish is now softer and more warming, very pleasant but also a bit toothless. From a young malt we desire more bite.
Word to the Wise: This is a good island malt offering some curve balls compared to Islay (peated) whisky, which makes it an attractive variant. Lacks some virtuoso skills, but gets the job done sufficiently.
Score: 84 points.