The Arran Machrie Moor 10Yo Single Malt 46% 700ml

Arran ten year old now comes with a puff of smoke: It’s the newly presented Machrie Moor matured for a decade in first-fill bourbon casks, and the third in a series of light to medium peated styles offered by the distillery.

Described as a bit of a chameleon that changes in the glass, it is something like a Port Charlotte only with less smoke and more fruit – or perhaps more like a Campbeltowner? The nose delivers what the label suggests – peat, only in a dry, non-confrontational manner that becomes more polite and fruity after air contact.

The most likeable thing about this whisky is the twist on the palate. Expecting something peaty, instead you get a delicious fruit-salad; the juiciness of the malt makes for a sweet, succulent finish before leaving you with an oily, warming, brine and pepper tang. Nice coastal vibe. We’re heading towards Springbank rather than Laphroaig. Tasted from a 30ml sample. 46% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.