Talisker Port Ruighe Island Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Volume: 700ml      ABV: 45.8%      Age: No Age Statement      Country: Scotland

Talisker distillery is an Island single malt Scotch whisky distillery based in Carbost, Scotland on the Isle of Skye. This Scottish West Coast distillery is operated by Diageo who also own distilleries such as Lagavulin, Cardhu, Cragganmore, Mortlach and many more. The distillery was founded in 1830 but rebuilt in 1880. The malted barley used in production comes from Muir of Ord and Talisker has an unusual feature, swan neck lye pipes. A loop in the pipes takes the vapour from the stills to the worm tubs so some of the alcohol already condenses before it reaches the cooler. It then runs back into the stills and is distilled again. Talisker now has an output of three and a half million litres of spirit per annum.

In 2014 Talisker introduced this whisky to the world and before long it became a single malt whisky with a big bold reputation. The Port Ruighe (pronounced Port-Ree) was considered a bit of a step up from the entry point whiskies that Talisker were offering, the Storm and the 10 years old. Talisker are now hitting the industry hard with no age statement bottling’s and very tasty ones at that. The construction of this fine Scotch whisky is the result of maturing whisky in European and American refill casks some of which have been heavily charred. The whiskies from these barrels are then transferred into barrels that previously held port for finishing. The result is a hit single malt with rich flavours and traditional attributes.

Our Tasting Notes

Nose: The vanilla immediately touches the senses, black pepper and almond meal. Freshly cooked prawns and lemon citrus butter. Lemon scented candles and a little pvc.

Taste: An oily whisky, very rich with lots of citrus and butter creaminess. There’s a peppery spice, but that’s expected after the nose gave it away however it balances the whisky nicely. Stewed fruits and lemon meringue pie. Rich summer berries soaked into a pudding with clotted cream. Hits of peat smoke and smoked meats.

Finish: Long finish, mouth coating and delicious. Fruits are still there but now dark chocolate, ashy smoke and more smoked meats.