Whisky: Loch Lomond Inchmurrin 10 Year, Brave New Spirits

Country/Region: Scotland/Highland

ABV: 58.1%

Cask: First Fill Bourbon Barrels

Age: 10 Years

Nose: Citrusy and a touch tropical with orange creamsicles and orange almond cake; with more time honey, mango and a touch of soursop, vanilla cream.

Palate: Medium-bodied citrus and wood with a metallic tinge, vanilla, and a kiss of salt; tropical mango, tinned pineapple, and a kiss of lychee; rattan wood furniture and pepper toward the end.

Finish: Medium-length with fruits and a gentle metallic bite.

Score: 6-7 (80)

Mental Image: Bamboo Grove Shave Ice with a Cream Top

Narrative & Notes: Citrusy and refreshing, the aroma of this young Inchmurrin underwent a lovely evolution toward more potent tropical vibes. The palate was similar, though with less orange and more immediate tropical fruits. A metallic tinge, or bite, ran throughout and turned more toward pepper at the end. The flavors were pleasant and balanced, nothing terribly complex, but the metallic and almost maritime elements made it feel almost Arran-esque at times.

Does the artwork match the bright tropical profile? Not really. Before reading the label, the artwork immediately had me in mind for something peatier and more robust. When I asked about the art, I was told it was nothing profound, just a playful reference to the Loch Ness monster. I loved the art— though I heard at least one person express some dislike for it— my only complaint was that I wanted there to be a stronger connection to the profile of the malt. It is easy to dismiss art as just window dressing on the bottle, and it is, but I think it is an ideal place for a bit of storytelling and a chance to convey something of the whisky’s qualities.

Overall, even if the art and profile did not match, I liked them both.  Though I did not save enough of the whisky to try, I imagine it would be superb in a highball.