2012 North Star Williamson (Laphroaig) 11 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

'Williamsons' continue to pop up via independents who use the obscure name to conceal the distillery's identity. It is of course a tribute to Bessie Williamson, the first female Scotch whisky distillery manager who also worked at Laphroaig for some time, steering the brand to success in the US before and after World War II. This eleven year old was matured in a PX sherry hogshead. 56.4% Alc./Vol. Non chill-filtered. 240 bottles.

Notes from the bottlers... Nose: Highland toffee and beeswax followed by Pain au Chocola that are slightly burnt. Taste: an oil-fired stove, black coffee and pickled raisins with considerable influences of dry smoke. Finish: as befits a "real" Islay, long.