Talisker 25 Years Old

This Talisker, an official release, a 25 year old Skye malt and bottled at 45.8%. Talisker, built in 1831 at Carbost on the storm battered coast of Skye, is a Diageo Classic Malt. 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. A European oak cask added a spiced, dried fruit edge to the smoke. Beyond twenty years the smoke turns gentle, the malt oily and deep with dried fruit and soft pepper. The slow loss of the angel's share concentrates the smoky, peppery core over time. The distillery faces the water across to the hills of Skye. Talisker is made by the sea, and matured within reach of the salt air. The signature is a black pepper kick, the so called chilli catch, over maritime smoke.

At an approachable 45.8% it is balanced. The European oak adds a spiced, dried fruit edge, and a touch of vanilla and oak sweetness, while brine, citrus and a smoky pepper lead. It is bold and coastal, the peat and pepper to the fore. The finish runs oily, smoky and warm. This is a bold Island single malt from Carbost.