Each month we have a Monthly Pick to highlight an available SMWS release that we think deserves some extra attention, which comes with a promotional price. This month it is A Hebridean Idyll, a 5yo single malt Scotch from the Isle of Raasay.

SPIRIT NOTES

The nose evoked a beach of smooth pebbles and crushed shells – with a hint of wood smoke from a distant bonfire and a café serving black coffee, crema catalana and cherry liqueur chocolates. Very idyllic; but the taste was a whack in the mouth with a chilli-smeared stave – while subtle suggestions of orange and gooseberry came later. Adding water, the nose developed a profusion of fruity, floral fragrances, including strawberry-flavoured yoghurt and fruit candies, marshmallows, elderflower, potpourri and peeled satsumas. The palate improved with water – becoming silkier and sweeter, with orange sherbet, earl grey sponge cake, fruity olive oil and hints of coriander to finish.