Two Neat Peats

We brought a lot of sherry action on our recent boat from Scotland, but surprisingly not much peat. Aside from the 12 year old cask strength Bowmore (also in sherry), there wasn't much smoky goodness in the Signatory selection. No matter, however, because we've got you covered on other fronts. Right now the two best deals in peated whisky are in stock and available with plenty of inventory. After retasting these today, I'm convinced you won't do much better for the money. It's not often we get new, limited releases that are both plentiful, affordable, and this tasty.

Compass Box Great King Street "Glasgow Blend" Scotch Whisky $42.99 - Imagine the regular Great King Street, but richer, fuller, and with a healthy dollup of peat smoke. That's all there really is to know! Just a super tasty, well-formulated blend from our buddy John Glaser; a recipe made from a very high proportion of Highland and Islay single malts, combined with Lowland single grain whisky. Matured in a combination of Sherry oak, American oak and French oak casks, this is a well-priced deal while we have it.

Big Peat Islay Holiday Edition Blended Malt Whisky $66.99 - The Big Peat Xmas Edition won best blended single malt from the Whisky Advocate in 2013, and the new edition, in my opinion, is better than last year's. Imagine the lithe, briny character of Ardbeg Uigeadail with the baking spices and cinnamon peat of Laphroaig and Caol Ila on the finish. At cask strength, it really comes on strong at the back, letting you know this isn't some watered-down well drink. The flavors are potent and balanced from front to back. Of course, there's a bit of Port Ellen mixed in as well, just for the fun of it. Those who take the plunge on this bottle will be well-rewarded. It's another solid attempt from the Big Peat team.

-David Driscoll