Talisker 1977 Tactical The Old Malt Cask (Douglas Laing)

Douglas Laing selected this Talisker, a 25 year old from 1977 and bottled at 50%. Just 300 bottles were filled. Talisker was established in 1830 on the storm battered coast of Skye; its peppery maritime malt is loved the world over. Talisker distilled three times until 1928, which is why it keeps two wash stills and three spirit stills.

Distilled on Hawk Hill water through worm tub condensers, building the bold maritime style Talisker is loved for. Maturation came in ex-Bourbon wood, vanilla beneath the maritime smoke. At this age it is mellow and waxy, the smoke folded into a rich, maritime body. The slow loss of the angel's share concentrates the smoky, peppery core over time. Its 10 year old is the Island malt of Diageo's Classic Malts selection. The unusual two wash and three spirit still set up is a relic of triple distillation, dropped in 1928. An old visitors book records guests calling since the turn of the last century.

At its natural 50% it is rich and peppery. A touch of vanilla and oak sweetness, while brine, citrus and a smoky pepper lead. A sea salt and a cracked pepper lift it. The finish runs oily, smoky and warm. This is a bold Island single malt from Carbost.