Bowmore Black Rock Single Malt Scotch Whisky (1000ml)

Introduced in 2014, this new no-age statement release is described by the producers as "A delicious balance of peat smoke, treacle, toffee and orange...strongly influenced by the time spent maturing in Spanish sherry casks.”Taking its name from the Black Rock of Islay that rises out of Loch Indaal, this otherwise Travel-Retail Exclusive is certainly one of the more intriguing Bowmore releases of late. Sherry and smoke can be a difficult combination to pull off, and although light, this works nicely and is easy to like. We've secured a very small quantity for Australian whisky lovers.

Tasting note: Striking deep copper colour - almost sienna brown. Such softly handled brushstrokes of smoke you'll rarely encounter - and quite beguiling complexity: A delicate mist of peat, though not thick enough to completely obscure underlying notes of leather, pencil shavings, cinnamon, vanilla, manuka honey, orange cake - others may find still more... Genteel delivery, again, soft, almost flaccid peat over sherry. Gains a point intensity wise at the finish with cinnamon and spice adding vibrancy. Fades with bitter dark chocolate and light orange cake. Sedate yet cleverly handled - the ideal dram when you want something peaty without assaulting your senses. 40% Alc./Vol.

Other reviews... " A friendly, full bodied dram whose bark is worse than its bite. Smoked toasted fudge is the main theme. But that would not work too well without the aid of a vague backdrop of cinnamon and marmalade. If you are looking for a gentle giant, they don't come more wimpish than this. 87.5 points- Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2015

4.5 stars. - www.diffordsguide.com