Whiskey - Peated single malt whisky
CoreIslay, Highland (Ardmore / Ben Nevis), Islands (Talisker / Highland Park), Speyside (BenRiach peated)
Famous For
ABV40-68%. Many peated malts are bottled at cask strength (55-68%) to preserve smoke intensity.
Sub-styles
Lightly PeatedMedium PeatedHeavily PeatedIslay-StyleNon-Islay Peated
Tasting Notes
Peat smoke, campfire, iodine, brine, seaweed, tar, medicinal, bacon, smoked fish, leather, vanilla (from wood), maritime salt, creosote. Islay peat is maritime and iodine-forward. Highland peat tends earthier and drier. The peat source and the cask both shape the final smoke character.
Brand Guide
Call
Bowmore 12, Caol Ila 12 ($40-50)
Premium
Laphroaig 10, Ardbeg 10, Lagavulin 16, Talisker 10 ($50-75)
Top Shelf
Ardbeg Uigeadail, Laphroaig Lore, Octomore ($75-200+). Laphroaig 10 is the litmus test — if you love it, you're an Islay person. If you don't, try Highland Park for a gentler approach
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The Story
Smoke-soaked barley from peat-fired kilns. The most polarizing style in whisky.