Torabhaig Distillers Series' - Iona's First Edition / 70cl

"My thought process behind my Journeyman’s began at Crisp maltings in Portgordon. I tried a variety of speciality malts, one of which was a chocolate malt that had a rich and slightly bitter taste, and it was definitely moreish – I managed to eat a couple of handfuls! When the opportunity came around to create my own whisky, I instantly knew I would be including chocolate malt, but I didn’t expect that my worts would come through almost entirely black and, once fermented for my chosen minimum of 120 hours, look more this Guinness than wash. I was pleasantly surprised with my spirit result, instantly smelling and tasting the chocolate malt after just 15 minutes of foreshots, so I cut onto spirit. I kept my final cut point low to include deep, rich flavours in the final dram." Iona Macphie, Distiller

Nose: Soft and inviting, opening with smooth vanilla sweetness and creamy cocoa butter.  Layers of dark chocolate and malted cereal bring depth, while a gentle lift of citrus and subtle tropical notes adds brightness.

Palate: Warming and expressive, led by clove and a cool hint of peppermint, gradually building into a richer spice character.  Sweet notes of caramel and toffee unfold alongside redcurrant and raisin, adding a dark fruit richness, while toasted oak provides structure.  A thread of ginger emerges and gradually carries through the palate toward the finish.

Finish: Long and vibrant, where that warming ginger note continues alongside peppercorn and cinnamon spice.  A return of vanilla softens the spice, leaving a fresh, gracefully lingering and well-integrated finish.

Torabhaig