We have written previously about Compass Box, the independent whisky bottler with a flair for dramatic names.

Their latest release, the 2012 edition Flaming Heart, matches its name with a big, bold whisky.

Flaming Heart is malt whisky, but rather than a single malt, it’s a blend of the whisky from several distilleries. Some of the malt is as young as six years old, and there is also a proportion aged seventeen, so the bottle doesn’t carry an age statement.

The intense and inviting nose of dry smoke and earthy, heathery tones is underscored by lighter green notes and a touch of sweet citrus. Adding a splash of water really underscores this sweet aspect – anyone for smoked honey?

The palate – wow! – confirms that it’s a well named dram, big and fiery, broad and earthy, with a long chilli pepper finish. This is the power of the young whisky coming through, but again, water gentles the beast, and lets the older whisky speak, making it sweet and smooth… until the fiery chillli heat comes roaring back in on the finish.

A great dram to warm up with when the weather turns cold.

48.9%/70cl, £80-85, from The Whisky Exchange, The Good Spirits Co, and other specialist retailers