Williamson Blended Malt 12 Year Old Thompson Bros 50% 70cl

A fascinating blended malt here – not least because the distillery makeup remains a mystery. (Although some strategic googling might lend some clues to its provenance… you didn’t hear it from us.) What we do know is that this bottling is a magnificent example of peated spirit, aged for at least 12 years in a refill sherry butt. Bottled at a pleasing 50% ABV with no added colour or chill-filtration, it is a lively, complex dram that leans into the savoury side. Absolutely one to try. The label artwork is by Scottish illustrator KMG.

Nose: Remarkably meaty. There’s some sherry fruitiness in there, but cigar smoke, cloves, petrichor and walnuts are much more apparent. Intriguing.

Palate: The savoury character continues with eucalyptus, leather, and brine notes, before the sweetness of cloves and smoked pineapple come through. A green menthol provides extra complexity.

Finish: Sandalwood, more cigar smoke and chilli oil linger on and on.