Pintail Caol Ila Single Malt Scotch Whiskey, 11 years 2012, 70 cl

Pineau des Charentes is a fortified wine, usually enjoyed as an aperitif, made from two parts grape must and one part Cognac in western France. Pineau is aged in oak casks to give it its smooth character and nutty-sweet, fruity notes. As producers and curators of Scotch whiskies matured in sweet wine casks, Pintail was eager to discover what the aged oak of an ex-Pineau barrique would do to a wonderfully smoky Islay whisky. The result: the sweet, gingery, and nutty character is beautifully balanced by the ashy smoke of the classic Islay distillate. The nose reveals aromas of smoldering beach fires, salty sea breezes, seaweed, citrus peel, and bourbon biscuits. On the palate, it tastes of brine, black pepper, cigar box, honeyed apricots, gingerbread, grilled pineapple, and dark toffee. It finishes with ashy smoke, roasted nuts, brown sugar, and fruit compote.