Ledaig and Tobermory 2024 18 Years - Living Souls
Ledaig is the brand from the Tobermory distillery that stands for distinctive smoke, Tobermory for maritime elegance - but what happens when the two come together? The Living Souls Ledaig & Tobermory 2024, matured for 18 years, combines precisely these opposites and creates an exciting variety of flavours. Is this a smoky powerhouse or a finely balanced composition?
Tasting Notes
Nose
The first impression: earthy, cold smoke, as if a burnt-out campfire had been left on a damp meadow. This is joined by spicy heather and old forest honey, which gives the fragrance a pleasant depth. There are subtle flashes of vanilla and a hint of ripe apple in the background. Interestingly, there is even a subtle hint of camembert - an unusual but exciting detail.
Palate
The attack is creamy and gentle, almost surprisingly soft. Maritime notes resonate, accompanied by lemongrass and a subtle freshness. The smoke is present, but rather restrained - not the rough peaty club, but a subtle, ashy veil. A slight rubbery note comes through, reminiscent of young Islay whiskies, but it remains in the background. Some tequila-like spice and sea salt round off the experience.
Finish
The finish is of medium length and again shows the typical ashy notes of a mature Ledaig. There are also gentle oak tones and a subtle aftertaste of apple and pear.
Thoughts
Marcel 78/100
This Ledaig & Tobermory 2024 is like a peaceful walk by the sea – smoky, but never overpowering. Those expecting wild peat monsters will instead discover a charming, restrained character that delights with its gentle spice and surprising details like Camembert, making it a joy to drink. A whisky that impresses with its elegant balance between power and subtlety.
Sascha 79/100
The Living Souls Ledaig & Tobermory 2024 presents an interesting balance between earthy smoky and maritime notes, yet remains rather subtle and reserved in its structure. The composition feels well balanced but could benefit from more intensity and sharper edges to fully unleash the potential of this 18-years whisky. For lovers of balanced, complex blends, it offers a solid, technically well-crafted alternative.
Value for Money: Fair
Discover our value for money winnersThis product was kindly provided to us by Living Souls. This does not influence our rating. No payments or other benefits were received in exchange for this provision.
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How does the Ledaig & Tobermory 2024 18 Years differ from classic Islay whiskies?
Unlike typical Islay whiskies, the smoke in the Ledaig & Tobermory 2024 18 Years is noticeably more subdued and ashy rather than powerfully peaty. The combination with the maritime and elegant notes from Tobermory creates a balanced interplay between smoke and freshness.
Which aromas make the Living Souls Ledaig & Tobermory 2024 particularly complex?
The complexity arises from an unusual blend of earthy smoke, spicy heather, forest honey, and a delicate Camembert note on the nose. On the palate, maritime notes, lemongrass, a subtle rubbery hint, and a tequila-like spice complement the tasting experience.
How does the 18-year maturation influence the character of this whisky?
The 18 years of maturation bring a pleasant softness and depth. The smoke becomes less rough and develops an ashy veil, while oak tones, apple, and pear notes make the finish smooth and medium-length.