Asta Ila 12 years 2008 - 2021 #AM141

Tasting Note by Mark Dermul (www.whivie.be) - 88/100

See, that's exactly why I call Bert - in all comradeship, that is - Silly Bert. How tongue-in-cheek isn't it to call this malt Asta Ila and then put 'Distilled at an Islay Distillery' on your label. No need for a drawing here, of course. My favourite Ileach and then, on top of that, in a sherry cask as well as cask strength. I think I already know what my next purchase is going to be.

Mamma mia, here we go! Excellent nose on tar, cigars, onion soup (gene zever!) and linoleum, complemented by vanilla, apples and walnuts. A hint of sea air and stockfish, kelp and raw mussels with a drop of lemon juice on top. Excellent (yes, Mark, you said that)!

Oily body and the strength is almost perfect. Puffed, sweet chestnuts sprinkled with brackish water, olives, chewing tobacco and some caramel to keep things somewhat sweet. The smoke is subtle and will remain so. Doesn't dominate at any point, but is a constant in the background. Blissful, really.

In the finish, which lingers nice and long, the onion soup peeps back briefly while a nice barbecue sauce gets the last word.

There is no age on excellence. This stuff is barely 12, but what a malt! Not even 120 EUR? For me two please!

Asta Morris

Asta Morris is an independent bottler founded by Belgian whisky connoisseur Bert Bruyneel in 2009. Since its founding, Asta Morris has quickly made a name for itself in the world of independent whisky, rum, and other spirits. Bert Bruyneel is known for his passion for high-quality, unique drinks, and this is evident in the products bottled under his labels.

Bert's philosophy is quality over quantity. The barrel selection process is rigorous, choosing only those barrels that meet Bert Bruyneel's high standards.

Two additions to the Asta Morris family are Rasta Morris and Asta Maurice. Rasta Morris is the name used for the Single Cask Rums. Asta Maurice is the label created for French distillates. Think Cognac, Armagnac and Calvados.

Conclusion

Asta Morris, along with its sub-labels Rasta Morris and Asta Maurice, represents a wide range of high-quality, independent bottlings loved by connoisseurs and collectors. With these labels, Bert Bruyneel has carved out a place for himself in both the whisky and rum worlds, as well as in other spirits. The brands are known for their commitment to quality, their playful approach to branding, and their ability to present unique and interesting bottlings every time.