Islay & Peat: A Smoky Evening
From Lagavulin's maritime elegance to Ardbeg's raw power, we explored the full spectrum of Islay peat alongside expressions from India, Taiwan, and the Netherlands.
There's something about peat smoke that divides whisky drinkers into two camps: those who love it and those who haven't tried enough of it. Our April session was designed to convert the skeptics.
We opened with Lagavulin 16, the benchmark of Islay whisky. Its maritime smokiness filled the room as members settled into the evening. The Talisker 18 followed, offering a different take on island smoke — more pepper, more fruit, more elegance.
Caol Ila 18 proved that Islay can be gentle, its citrus-smoke combination earning nods of approval from even the peat-wary. But it was Ardbeg Corryvreckan that truly commanded attention — a vortex of peat, dark chocolate, and raw power at 57.1% ABV.
The session also featured Amrut Fusion from India, Kavalan expressions from Taiwan, and Millstone from the Netherlands, demonstrating that great whisky truly knows no borders. The Kavalan Solist Vinho Barrique, with its explosive tropical fruit and wine tannins, was a revelation.
As smoke curled through the room and glasses were drained, the verdict was unanimous: this was our most diverse and exciting session yet.
Pairing Highlight
Lagavulin 16 with a Padrón 1926 — smoky sweetness meets dark chocolate power.
"The Corryvreckan is a force of nature. I've never tasted anything so intense yet so balanced."
— Member E
"Kavalan Solist Vinho Barrique is proof that great whisky knows no borders."
— Member F
Tasting Notes
9 whiskies tasted during this session
9
Whiskies
4
Countries
79
Avg. Rating
83
Top Score






