Armorik’s new line of heavily peated single malts called ‘Yeun Elez’, sees the first release matured in a mix of ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks, with the barley peated to around 50ppm. Made with Scottish malt using local water and pot stills, the whisky is named for a swamp considered in local legend to be the Gateway to Hell.
“Located in the Monts d’Arrée, in the heart of the Armorica Natural Park, the Yeun Elez is a swamp considered in Breton legends as the Gateway to Hell. According to the legend reported by Anatole le Braz, it is here that one came to reject into hell the evil souls who haunted the living. Tadic-Coz knew the secret and the ritual of locking the souls of ghosts in the body of a black dog. He instructed the young Jobic to guide the dog towards the door of the Underworld. The latter, going from presbytery to presbytery, led the black dog to the rector of Commana. Together, at sunset, they threw the black dog into the Yeun Elez swamp, condemning the ghost to hell.”
Color: Pale yellow with slight golden reflections.
Tasting Notes
Nose: Beautiful aromatic intensity, the peat is medicinal (camphor, clove) supported by fruity (bananas, cooked peaches) and pastry notes.
Palate: Smoke envelops the palate, citrus notes bring freshness. Nice roundness with a hint of saltiness.
Finish: A lingering and spicy finish, ending with a warm wood fire.