Isle of Raasay Peated Columbian Oak Single Cask 21/212

59% ABV

The Isle of Raasay is one of the inner Hebrides Islands off of the western coast of Scotland, just north of the famous Isle of Skye. The population on the island is 161 and 30 of them work for the distillery. Founded in 2017, they produce malt whiskey and gin using as many local ingredients as possible and utilizing water from a well onsite.

They make a lightly peated and unpeated spirit and age both in 3 different cask types: ex-Rye Whiskey, ex-Bourdeaux red wine casks, and an heirloom oak varietal called Chinquapin. 

This is a special single cask release that contains only their peated spirit, aged in Quercus Humboldtii or Columbian oak. It was bottled at 59% ABV with no chill filtration nor added color. This is our first experience with Columbian oak and it makes us think we need further exploration because the wood flavors are delightful. On the front palate the smoke is subdued, with some toasty notes of creme brulee. The finish is long, evolving, and fascinating! The peat smoke blooms in the mid-palate along with some wild earthy and fruit flavors. This is a dram to sit and enjoy slowly, allowing the complex and evolving flavors to dance across your palate.