Wemyss Peat Chimney Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: The whisky is a blend of malt whiskies from 16 different distilleries, with a lead malt likely sourced from Islay, known for its peated whiskies.
Type: Blended Malt Scotch Whisky (not to be confused with Blended Scotch Whisky, which includes grain whisky).
Distillation & Maturation: The whisky is aged for 12 years. Specific distillation and maturation processes are not detailed, but the presence of a lead malt from Islay suggests traditional Scottish methods.
Age Statement: 12 years old.
ABV: 40%.
Color: Artificially colored.
Clarity and Bottle Design: The bottle features an icon of a peat chimney, symbolizing the whisky's rich smokiness. The design is described as well-made.

Balance of Flavors: The whisky strikes a balance between peat-rich smoke and other flavors without being overwhelmingly smoky.
Unique Characteristics: It has a PPM (phenol parts per million) of 15-20, indicating a moderate level of peatiness. The flavor profile includes fruitiness, a little medicinal smoke, sweet smoke, a hint of seashore, earthiness, and a smooth, spicy touch.
Comparison: The Peat Chimney is a blended malt, meaning it's all malt whisky with no grain whisky, allowing for a more pronounced peat flavor compared to big blends that mix smoky and non-smoky malt whiskies with a larger proportion of neutral grain whisky.

Interesting Anecdotes: The speculation around the lead malt's distillery, whether it's Beaumont or Bunnahabhain, adds a layer of mystery. The history of Islay distilleries like Lagavulin not selling casks to independent bottlers anymore is also highlighted.

Islay's Influence: The whisky's character is heavily influenced by its lead malt from Islay, a region renowned for its peated whiskies. This geographical connection underscores the cultural significance of Islay's distilling traditions in shaping the flavor profile of Peat Chimney.

"Definitely smoke but not too much," and "wonderfully mixed," are phrases that capture the master taster's appreciation for the balanced and well-crafted blend of the Peat Chimney.

Blended malt Scotch whisky with a 12-year age statement, artificially colored.
Features malt whiskies from 16 different distilleries, with a lead malt likely from Islay.
Flavor profile includes moderate peatiness (PPM 15-20), fruitiness, medicinal and sweet smoke, seashore, earthiness, and a smooth, spicy touch.
The blend strikes a balance between peat-rich smoke and other flavors.
Speculation about the lead malt's distillery adds intrigue.
The whisky's character is influenced by Islay's distilling traditions.

Peat Enthusiasts: Those who enjoy a moderate level of peatiness without overwhelming smokiness will appreciate Peat Chimney's balanced profile.
Blended Malt Scotch Whisky Lovers: Individuals interested in exploring the complexities of blended malt whiskies that feature a diverse range of malt whiskies.
Islay Whisky Curious: Newcomers curious about Islay whiskies but looking for a less intense introduction to the region's peated character.