This is a rare whisky, and three men risked their lives to make it possible. Justin Fornal, Chad Anderson, and Johnnie Mundell swam around the entire Isle of Islay over eight days in the summer 2017, collecting whiskies between 10 and 23 years old from all eight of the island’s active distilleries in a quarter cask. Those whiskies were left to marry for nine months after the expedition, and only 500 bottles were produced to raise money for the Royal National Lifeboat Institution and its lifeboat services around the UK and Ireland.

The nose is earthy with a rich peatiness and hints of driftwood smoke, along with a subtle tartness of green apples and grilled pineapple. Touches of fig cookies and dates add even more complexity. The taste is oily and thick with great peat smokiness and spices, but well-balanced by touches of baked fruits, hints of toffee, and a nice maltiness. The finish is gentle and long with touches of driftwood smoke, peat, and dried fruits. Outstanding! (June, 2018)