Cadenhead’s 1842 Live Cask: Islay
Bottled 5/24/2016
55% ABV
$25 (200 mL)
Website
What the Bottler Says
The Cadenhead’s 1842 Live Casks contain two or more single malts from the region they represent. Visitors to the store can buy bottles of various sizes. The casks and contents are changes periodically, so if you like a particular pour, best to buy when you can!
What Gary Says
Nose: Sea air, brine, peat, iodine with pepper spice.
Palate: Earthy peat with hints of honey, pepper spice bite at the end.
Finish: Moderate in length, drying and peppery.
Comments: I bought this while visiting their London store in May 2016. It is a solid representation of Islay with big peat and sea air. Some water definitely helps bring it into a better balance, allowing more of the honeyed sweetness to cut through. I was really intrigued by this concept of “live casks” where they bottle right there in front of you (and, I couldn’t find anything else in stock and refused to leave empty handed!) Glad I did – very enjoyable pour.
Rating: Stands Out