Islay The nose suggested light, distant smoke drifting over gardens (orange blossom, sage, lavender), some exotic fruits, sandy beaches, seaweed, barbecued salmon and the sweetness of honey, toffee, syrup and marmalade. The palate exploded smoke bombs of lavender, parma violet and eucalyptus – lots of high class soapy perfumes (might be too much for some, but we loved it); there were other things going on – smoky bacon, bitter chocolate and espresso dregs.