Chichibu Ichiro The Peated 2016 Single Malt Whisky

Colour : amber. Quite impressive considering its age. (That will be the decent wood they use.) On the nose : The peat drifts towards the sweet and medicinal, iodine and carbolic end of things. And it’s got a hint of some sweet old Ardbegs about it.  Citrus, and surprisingly coastal, then with some smoked haddock notes. Once this peaty heft fades, there’s a lovely honeyed sweetness, with baked apples and dried apricots. Specks of vanilla, becoming more noticeable with time. Salted caramel chocolate. In the mouth : oof, that spirit is such high quality. Gorgeously viscous, with the peat being a shade more subtle, but still with real presence. Lapsang souchong, with nutmeg. Heather honey. Vanilla is present, though not as obvious. Lime marmalade. Chilli peppers. Baked pears. Creme caramel. Ginger and golden syrup. Very warming towards the finish, which just goes on and on, and comes full of cloves and nutmeg. Reviewed by MALT