Ardnamurchan Single Malt 46% Western Highlands

The core expression of the new Ardnamurchan distillery, this is a distinctly Highland style of whisky, with a gorgeously rich, oily texture, light peat which expresses itself as subtle woodsmoke, bright orchard fruit, a touch of hay and just a hint of something resinous and briney. In some ways it leans towards the salty, lightly peated style of Campbeltown, and in others, to the waxy, restrained elegance of Clynelish. In the end, it's entirely its own creature, and one of the most exciting single malts to enter the market in years. Don't hesitate.