CHICHIBU 2012 Peated The Chronicles

Nose : rich, concentrated. On the initial nose, an oily and ashy peat spreads across its salty, liquorice and lush (green malt, sage) contours and completely fills the aromatic palette. In doing so, and with lots of elegance, it gets straight to its core of classicism. Allowed to breathe, citrus fruit (lemon, grapefruit), some spice (clove, star anise) and almond milk bring even more nobility and brilliance to the aromatic palette.

Palate : distinguished, proud. Even more radiant, the attack markedly lifts the debate. The peat, smoke, citrus fruit and spices have gained intensity and sophistication. The mid-palate is wonderfully sweet and salty. Vanilla pod and salted butter caramel fit together perfectly. The very accomplished end of the palate wavers between hot tar, white florals, génépi and subtly liquorice malted barley. Gradually, earthy and peaty fine tannins gently contract the palate.

Overall : both serene and dynamic. Despite every element of the flavour and aroma palette being in place, the finish has no qualms about taking a completely different path, venturing towards chalky soil. The same light brightens up an incredibly long end of the palate. The retronasal olfaction is an indulgent lemon meringue tart. The empty glass sees malted barley reign supreme. It is accompanied by smoky, seaweed, spicy and medicinal (clove, camphor) foot soldiers.