Further inland… These whiskies hero the use of highland peat and are therefore rich and smoky in character. Aerstone showcases two distinctive styles of single malt scotch whisky which are clearly defined by their taste profile on the bottle and pack.

Still expertly selected by David Stewart, eighteen of the finest casks from The Balvenie warehouses went into Tun 1509 Batch #8. Some were refill sherry butts – others classic ex-bourbon barrels. As always they were married together one of the large oak marrying vessel that sit in Warehouse 24. Nose: starts on bright citrus, like lemon tartlets and grapefruit juice, alongside nicely polished oak. It reminds me of a very old cognac with elegant rancio notes. Later vanilla cake, marmalade and hints of toffee come out. Golden raisins, subtle coconut and whiffs of pine needles too.