Whisky Review/Tasting: Samples of Ledaig Casks from Signatory

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Both samples are from the Tobermory distillery on the Isle of Mull.
Type: The whisky is of the Ledaig brand, indicating it is a peated malt whisky.
Distillation and Maturation Process: Both samples matured in sherry casks, filled on the same day in 2005. They are unfiltered, showing sediment at the bottom, indicating a more traditional approach to bottling.
Age Statement: The exact age isn't specified, but since they were filled in 2005 and sampled in 2015, they are at least 10 years old.
Color and Clarity: One sample is slightly darker than the other, indicating a variance in cask influence. Both are unfiltered, showing some sediment.
Bottle Design: Specific bottle design details were not discussed, but the focus was on the cask numbers and the unfiltered nature of the whisky.

Balance of Flavors: The first sample is described as smoky with a bonfire characteristic, slightly sweet initially then turning drier with some dry fruits. The second sample also has smokiness but introduces a fruitiness with dark and citrus fruits, and a more pronounced vanilla and caramel flavor after dilution.
Unique Characteristics: The peat level is moderate, around 30-35 ppm, not reaching the extreme levels of some heavily peated whiskies. The second sample, after dilution, reveals more complex flavors like oranges and citrus, which are typically masked by alcohol and peat smoke.
Comparison: The specific comparison to other whiskies isn't made, but the Ledaig's moderate peatiness and sherry cask maturation place it in a unique flavor profile among peated Scotch whiskies.

Interesting Stories: The process of selecting a cask for bottling is detailed, highlighting the traditional methods used by master blenders, such as early morning tastings to ensure fresh taste buds and the avoidance of flavor fatigue.

Significance: The Isle of Mull and the Tobermory distillery's use of the Ledaig brand for their peated expressions contribute to the whisky's identity, showcasing the diversity of Scotch whisky beyond the more famous Islay peated whiskies.

"It's not this stinky medicinal smoke but it's the bonfire smoke a little bit sweet yes ah going over to dryness."
"The smoky part is quite the same. And behind is a little fruitiness. But not really much there's a fruitiness on top and key aromas like vanilla caramel you name it are missing little fruitiness up but I can't tell you what fruity is."
"So there's a lot, a lot more in this second one."

Two samples of Ledaig from the Tobermory distillery on the Isle of Mull were reviewed, both matured in sherry casks and unfiltered.
The flavor profile includes moderate peatiness with a balance of smokiness, sweetness, and fruitiness, particularly in the second sample after dilution.
The selection process for casks is detailed, emphasizing the sensory expertise of master blenders.
The Ledaig's identity is tied to its geographical origin and the traditional practices of its distillery.
The review highlights the importance of dilution in revealing hidden flavors, especially in peated whiskies.

Peated Whisky Enthusiasts: Those who enjoy a moderate level of peat with a complex balance of sweetness and fruitiness.
Sherry Cask Fans: Individuals who appreciate the influence of sherry cask maturation on whisky, adding depth and fruitiness.
Whisky Connoisseurs: Experienced drinkers interested in exploring the nuances of single cask selections and the impact of non-chill filtration.
Beginners with a Taste for Smoke: New whisky drinkers curious about peated expressions but intimidated by the more extreme peated whiskies might find Ledaig a more approachable option.