Lochindaal 2009, Swell de Spirits, exclusively bottled for NYW, 500ml

Nose: a beautiful mix of fishing nets, menthol, smoked fish and leather up front. A slightly farmy hint (usually more typical of Port Charlotte). In the background there is a fruity sweetness (charred mango) with pastry dough, toffee and sesame oil.

Mouth: punchy, but not extreme. It’s actually more balanced than I expected. A lot of sooty smoke, roasted hazelnuts, dark chocolate and tarmac. Hints of rubber that work well here. Also smoked mint, a little pine wood and chillies. Iodine and black peppercorns. The strength is more numbing towards the end, and brings out a firm saltiness as well.

Finish: long, with salted liquorice, petrol, lemon and dark, medicinal smoke.

A powerhouse, for sure, with plenty of flavour. I personally think water helps to bring out the true Lochindaal character here, especially since Bruichladdich fills its casks at a high ABV. However Swell de Spirits often likes to go full strength, so you’ll have to perfectionate it yourself. In any case really good whisky. The website says ‘sold out’ and ‘pre-order’ at the same time, so I’m not sure whether this is still available.