NINETYNINE
ISLAY BLENDED MALT SCOTCH WHISKY
DISTILLED IN 2012
BOTTLED IN SCOTLAND IN 2023

Our aim is not to create mysteries. We are not hiding behind definitions as complex as hieroglyphics on Egyptian tablets from 3000 years ago. This Williamson is 99% Laphroaig. And as it happens, even in the best distilleries, it is vaguely blended in order to be presented with another name. Williamson or Laphroaig, it matters little. What we are showcasing here is an elegant and majestic Islay expression. It is akin to the powerful millennia-old vestiges which flourished in the Nile Delta. The comparison is a little daring, you might think. Yes, we are convinced that evoking eternal symbols, or just playing with them a little, does help us to understand that in today’s world, and in our genome, we can rediscover customs and traditions of the universes which have come before us. A milestone, perhaps a cornerstone, of the Scottish way of making malt, distilling, assembling and ageing.

This is why we detect the medicinal and iodine predominating note, albeit one which is well harmonised with a greater aromatic structure. All against a dance of more medicinal herbs, vanilla, leather, and liquorice. Persistent in the mouth, where classic Islay saline traits dominate. A long finish, despite having a young thing raring to go in our class. One last captivating note is a balsamic profile endowed with pungent hints, such as oregano, sesame, and marjoram. Very very last: the iodine component remains present but does not hinder the rhythm and the breadth of this Spirit. The undertow includes yeast and notes of bread, salted butter and seaweed.

A small anchovy in the dish is worth more than a tuna at sea.

French proverb