Bruichladdich The Classic Laddie Scottish Barley Islay Single Malt ($70)
Unpeated Islay malts are not all that common, but this example from Bruichladdich is certainly proof that you don’t need smoke to create complexity. Sweet barley, a whiff of spice, citrus (which becomes more intense with a dash of water) and honey notes combine with a whisper of sea spray on the nose. Smooth and silky in the mouth, it perfectly balances traces of lemon, honey, caramel and crème brûlée with a long, subtly peppery finish.
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