Talisker 8 Years Old 2009 Cask #DL 12756 (Old Particular)

Douglas Laing selected this Talisker matured to 8 year old from 2009, drawn from cask DL 12756 and bottled at 48.4%. The outturn was 402 bottles. Established in 1830 on the shore of Loch Harport on the Isle of Skye, Talisker is the maritime malt of Skye. Talisker distilled three times until 1928, which is why it keeps two wash stills and three spirit stills.

It was worked through the distillery's looped stills and worm tubs, from medium peated malt, for the peppery, maritime spirit Talisker is known for. A refill American oak cask held it, keeping the peppery character to the fore. At this age the smoke is vigorous and the pepper sharp over a briny spirit. Medium peating leaves the smoke balanced rather than overwhelming. The signature is a black pepper kick, the so called chilli catch, over maritime smoke. Founded by the MacAskill brothers in 1830, it is Skye's oldest distillery. The worm tubs build the full, oily body that carries the smoke and pepper.

At a hearty 48.4% it carries real weight. A quiet vanilla from the barrel, while brine, citrus and a smoky pepper lead. A sea salt and a cracked pepper lift it. The finish is long, smoky and peppery. This is a bold Island single malt from Carbost.