Equipo Navazos La Bota 88 Whisky De Malta, Overseas 700ml

Bottled in 2018. 46% abv. A Scottish Malt aged in Jerez! This is sourced solely from what Navazos refer to as a “prestigious distillery in Scotland” (hence the “overseas”)—we don't know the exact distillery and perhaps never will. Its age is estimated at around 12 years, of which the past seven—as per the No. 89 Grain Whisky—have been spent in a single cask repurposed from a solera of very old, dry Oloroso Sherry.

It’s a Whisky of remarkable character and complexity. It boasts an enticing peaty touch to the nose (which may give some a clue as to its origin) balanced beautifully with the intense influence of the old Sherry cask. Fragrant and soft with poached pear, roasted malt and a hint of coffee bean and crème brûlée, the aromas give way to a sweet palate, intense and softly fruited, with florals, butterscotch and plenty of peaty smokiness—like Balvenie meets Islay. It’s got some power—even at 46% it’s happy with a touch of water—yet remains in perfect proportion. Finishes with notes of wild honey and, again, that delicious twang of iodine. La Bota de Magic.