By now you know the Character of Islay range from Atom Brands (who own Master of Malt). They recently expanded the range with new expressions (see Fiona Macleod 33 Years), including this Grace Île 25 Year Old.
It is a single malt whisky from an unnamed distillery, matured in an American oak.
Grace Île 25 yo (48%, Character of Islay Whisky Co 2020)
Nose: a sweet and sour combo, with hints of golden syrup and stewed apples, as well as some acrid smoke, rubbed lemon and heather. Cold ashes on the beach. A firm coastal undertone: sea spray and hints of salty fish. Candied ginger. Drier notes of hay in the background. Finally there’s also a light floral touch.
Mouth: nice entry, very coastal whisky but with a certain light elegance and sweetness to balance it out. Toffee, smoked malty notes, salted almonds but also a green apple freshness. Plenty of ashy notes, grasses, vanilla, lemon zest and whiffs of mint.
Finish: long, still quite minty and fresh, with deep smoke, ginger and a subtle sweet edge.
Slightly subdued smokiness mixed with a gentle fruity freshness. Maybe Laphroaig this time, or Caol Ila again? Anyway, really nice, I love this kind of elegant Islay profile. Available from Master of Malt.