Talisker 8YO (Special Release 2020) 57.9%

Nose: First impressions are led by a sweet seaside vibe: seaweed, iodine, crystallised citrus fruit and charred meat. After a while, molasses and stewed tropical fruits come through, along with a wisp of smoke.

Palate: Silky smooth and mouth-filling, with prickles of that characteristic Talisker pepperiness. The fruit becomes more caramelised, and the smoke becomes more bonfire-like, but the nose and palate are beautifully aligned.

Finish: Long and warming, with the pepper turning more chilli-like, wrapped up in gentle smoke.

Overall: An unusual Talisker with the rum cask influence, and absolutely one to add to the must-try list