Talisker The Wild Explorer (59.7%, OB, Diageo Special Releases 2023) Finished in a combination of White, Tawny and Ruby Port Casks Nose: Opening up on hints of smoked paprika powder, cured meats and a gentle coastal breeze, as well as some seaweed, dried red fruits (dates, raisins) and chalk. The gentle wood smoke is accompanied by a touch of iodine. Taste: Pretty classic Talisker. A distinct pepperiness accompanied by wood smoke and a sweetness that presumably comes from some of the ex-Port casks. Not too much wood influence though. Some damp oak too, as well as a good pinch of salt and dried fruits. Finish: Medium to long. The pepperiness lingers. The salty smoke too. —- Lagavulin 12 Years The Ink of Legends (56.4%, OB, Diageo Special Releases 2023) Finished in Don Julio Añejo Tequila casks Nose: A sort of creamy saline solution – I know that doesn’t sound very appealing, but bear with me – with hints of charred citrus. Briny oysters too. Also a whiff of driftwood, honeycomb, bonfire smoke, and oregano, as well as a touch of barbecued beef. Taste: A fatty mouthfeel. (Thumbs up, always.) Then an initial sweetness as well as pickled lemons, followed by cracked black peppercorns, earthy peat smoke, a few pinches of salt and orange pith. Finish: Medium to long. Lingering spices, quite dry and fairly sweet.