I was lucky to get my hands on a bottle of Ardmore’s new single malt, Highland Scotch release, Traditional Cask, which has arrived on our shores with just 3,000 cases available. Non-chill filtered and produced in the Speyside region, it marks Ardmore’s first single malt to be made generally available in the U.S. (The company also says it’s the only Highland single malt to be 100% peated since its inception in 1898.)

This is a very good Scotch, well-balanced with wispy smoke, honey, and a curious citrus undertone. It’s almost like it’s orange blossom honey cut into the Ardmore.

At 92 proof, I found the Scotch too alcoholic for drinking on its own. Cut with a splash of water the flavor really comes out, though.

If you like just about any kind of Scotch — smoky, floral, fruity — give Ardmore Traditional Cask a try… if you can find it.

A- / about $50 / ardmorewhisky.com