Elements of Islay

Elements of Islay is a series of single malt Scotch whiskies that showcase the diversity and character of Islay, one of Scotland’s most famous whisky–producing regions. The series often features limited releases and is known for its unique bottlings, each highlighting distinct flavor profiles characteristic of Islay whiskies.

Overview of Elements of Islay

• Producer: Elixir Distillers
• Launch Year: 2022
• Focus: Celebrating the diversity of Islay’s flavors through small-batch whiskies
• Master Blender: Oliver Chilton

Core Offerings

Elements of Islay includes a variety of expressions, each crafted to showcase different aspects of Islay’s character. Some notable bottlings include:

• Blended Malt Scotch Whisky, Bourbon Cask

  • SKU: UK-XEI-01-NV

• Blended Malt Scotch Whisky, ‘Cask Edit’

  • SKU: UK-XEI-02-NV

• Blended Malt Scotch Whisky, Sherry Cask

  • SKU: UK-XEI-03-NV

• Blended Malt Scotch Whisky, ‘Beach Bonfire’

  • SKU: UK-XEI-04-NV

Tasting Notes for Elements of Islay LN2

• Core Flavor: Milk chocolate, earthy peat smoke, and papaya
• Nose: Petrichor, damp leaves, hints of milk chocolate, and ripe tropical fruits
• Palate: Creamy ripe papaya, ginger, caramel, earthy smoke, menthol, white pepper, and char
• Finish: Tingle of pepper and char, with tropical fruit reappearing alongside soft spice

How does the peat level in Elements of Islay whiskies compare to other Islay brands

Elements of Islay whiskies typically feature a range of peat levels, showcasing the island’s signature smoky character. While specific phenol levels can vary, many Islay brands, such as Ardbeg and Laphroaig, are known for their intense peat profiles, often exceeding 50 ppm in their standard expressions.

Comparison of Peat Levels

• Elements of Islay:

  • Generally showcases a balanced peat profile, with expressions ranging from moderate to high peat levels.
  • Specific phenol levels are not always disclosed, but they aim to highlight the complexity of Islay’s character.

• Ardbeg:

  • Known for its high peat levels, typically around 55 ppm for its standard 10-year-old expression.
  • Offers intense smoky flavors, often described as bold and robust.

• Laphroaig:

  • Peat levels can vary, with the 10-year-old expression averaging around 45 ppm.
  • Characterized by a medicinal quality alongside its smoky profile, appealing to those who enjoy a more traditional Islay whisky.

• Octomore:

  • One of the most heavily peated whiskies in the world, with some expressions exceeding 200 ppm.
  • Known for its extreme peatiness, which can overshadow other flavor notes.