Yes, Tomatin Cu Bocan Single Malt Scotch Whisky is lightly peated to 15ppm. This means that during the malting process, a small amount of peat smoke is used to dry the barley, resulting in a subtle smoky flavor in the whisky. The peating level of 15ppm is relatively low compared to heavily peated whiskies, allowing the other flavors and characteristics of the spirit to shine through.
I have had the pleasure of tasting Tomatin Cu Bocan and found the peat influence to be well-balanced and not overpowering. The smokiness adds an extra layer of complexity to the whisky, complementing the other flavors derived from the cask maturation.
The use of different types of casks in the maturation process also contributes to the overall flavor profile of Tomatin Cu Bocan. Virgin Oak, Bourbon, and Sherry casks each bring their own unique characteristics to the whisky. Virgin Oak casks, being new and unused, impart bold and vibrant flavors, while Bourbon casks add notes of vanilla, caramel, and toffee. Sherry casks, on the other hand, contribute rich fruity and nutty flavors, as well as a deeper color to the whisky.
The combination of these casks, along with the peat smoke, creates a well-rounded and complex whisky. The 46% alc/vol bottling strength ensures that the flavors are not diluted, allowing for a full-bodied and robust drinking experience.
Another aspect that sets Tomatin apart is the non chill-filtering and natural color of their whiskies. Chill-filtering is a process used by some distilleries to remove certain compounds that may cause the whisky to become cloudy when chilled. However, this process can also strip away some of the natural oils and flavors. By choosing not to chill-filter, Tomatin preserves the full flavor and texture of their whisky.
In terms of the location of the Tomatin distillery, it is situated on the eastern edge of the Monadhliath Mountains, which lends a sense of remoteness to the distillery. This location, surrounded by rugged landscapes and pristine nature, undoubtedly influences the character of the whisky. The purity of the water source and the clean mountain air may contribute to the overall quality of Tomatin's spirits.
Overall, Tomatin Cu Bocan Single Malt Scotch Whisky is a lightly peated expression that offers a balanced and complex drinking experience. The combination of peat smoke, different cask types, and the distillery's location all play a role in shaping the unique flavor profile of this whisky. Whether you are a peat lover or someone looking to explore a more subtle smoky whisky, Tomatin Cu Bocan is definitely worth a try.