Dave Broom hand-picks six Islay whiskies that capture the often wildly contrasting styles of smoke and peat to be found on the island
1. Ardbeg Uigeadail
Heavily peated. Full-on power: smoke, soot, and tar. There’s leather, raisins, treacle, salt but also sweet fruit. 54.2%
£63
2. Bruichladdich Islay Barley
Unpeated. Grown, distilled and bottled on the island. Blossom, fresh fruits, honey, yellow plum, and a tickle of sweet spice. 50%
£67
Read more: The 12 bottles you need for the perfect whisky cabinet
3. Bunnahabhain 18 year old
Unpeated. Rich, dried fruits, gingerbread, black cherry, chestnut and a hint of malt. The best 18-year-old on the market? 46.3%
£128
4. Caol Ila 12
Medium peated, lighter, and grassy with hints of pear among the sea-washed rocks and lobster creels. 43%
£47
5. Kilchoman Machir Bay
Medium peated. Citric and fresh, touch of fresh scallop, light fragrant smoke, creamy toffee. 46%
£45
6. Lagavulin 16 year old
Heavily peated. Complex mix of resin, pipe tobacco, lapsang souchong tea, seaweed. Deep and resonant. 43%
£85
