Had I known that today's dram was called Kiln Embers, I may have begged Jonathan to wait until we got to this one instead. As mentioned on day 2, Wemyss Malts is easily one of my top 3 independent bottlers. They always have some really interesting drams and I have several bottles in my personal collection. This morning, that's what I discovered behind door 11... A dram I had seen and heard many people talking about earlier this year. They already have a peated expression on the market called Peat Chimney, which many people including myself really enjoy. So, I was perplexed to see a second peated expression being released and even more curious to get to try it for myself. Once again I tip my hat to Jonathan for getting this one for the advent calendar.
Today, unfortunately was a super busy day. It's that time of year and we have many commitments to visit with friends, attend parties, etc.. My goal was to get up around 7:00am and get as much done before our noon destination. That... didn't happen and I spent most of the day running behind. My poor little advent calendar sat silently in the basement, I'm sure thinking to itself that I had abandoned it. hehehe
When we finally did get home many hours later, I got into my pj's and I aimed for my lovely and very comfortable arm chair. I snuggled in with a warm blanket and prepared myself for my treat! Once poured I began to nose it immediately. I can see why they chose to call this one Kiln Embers. I am transported back to the Port Ellen Maltings on Islay. It's not a smell you can ever forget!
This is another dram I could easily find myself lost in for hours if I let myself. So, after a long day I decided I would do just that.
Wemyss Malts Kiln Embers, 46% ABV blended malt
Colour: Lovely 14K gold, plain and simple
Nose: A fireplace just as you get the fire started. Ashy, smoky goodness. Then grapefruit!
Palate: Not complicated, but bold. Lovely mouth feel. Smoky goodness followed by a salted caramel component. Lovely indeed.
Finish: Doesn't stick around, but it's warming and quite satisfying.
Overall this is a fabulous dram that will satisfy the most picky of "peatheads". I recall when Peat Chimney came out I thought it was good but now I will add that Peat Chimney has a big brother and he's a bit more mature!
Don't forget to check out Jonathan's take on this dram:
I do hope full bottles are available, because I just found my 2nd favourite dram of the calendar, so far...
here's to a lovely week and another that's ready to start. Number 12, I'm ready for you!!
cheers,
Lassie
