First Impressions
Isle of Skye from Ian Macleod Distillers blends peated island malts with Speyside, Highland malts, and grain whisky. The 8 Year Old is a bargain that whisky critics consistently praise for punching far above its price class.
Tasting
The nose is caramel with pine, lemon, and sea salt. On the palate at 40%, sea-salted caramel with baking spices and charcoal smoke. The finish is medium with smoke and caramel.
The Verdict
Isle of Skye 8 earns a 7 — a budget blend with genuine character. The island peat adds depth that Johnnie Walker Red and Famous Grouse lack. At £22, the best budget blended Scotch available.
