Talisker 18 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

The Talisker distillery is one of the most remote in the world, perched on the rugged western shores of the Isle of Skye, at the head of Loch Harport, in the small village community of Carbost. The distillery was originally founded back in 1830 – and not everyone in the local community was happy about it. The then parish minister felt the development of the distillery was 'one of the greatest curses that could befall (Carbost) or any other place'. More than a hundred and fifty years later, and Talisker is universally regarded as a jewel in the heart of Skye. The distinctive Talisker style recommends itself to seafood such as smoked salmon, kipper fillets, grilled smoked mackerel and oysters.

Time has rounded but not tamed the powerful taste of this Malt Classic.

Tasting note: It's been almost a decade since we revisited this maritime beauty, and at the very least, it's an age statement bottling that's held its ground - arguably even improved. Deep gold with water-like edges and solid legs. Opening aroma suggests dark chocolate and vanilla combined with a keynote of dried kelp. Air contact adds to the diversity introducing semi-ripe apple, pickled ginger, sea breeze and pepper. A creamy yet peppery profile that includes kelp, vanilla and a mildly oily texture. Finish ups the spice closing tongue tingling, fresh, citrus lozenge-like, mildly salty. Hints of pickled ginger, Fishermans Friend and drying oak in the aftertaste; some late sweetness returns in the fade. Complex, assured and immensely satisfying. 45.8% Alc./Vol.

Other reviews... First sniffings boast big-hearted aromas of maple sugar and caramel; further aeration stimulates marine notes of seaweed and light brine, but deeper notes of chili pepper, black pepper, honey and vanilla top off the experience. Palate entry is honeyed and full; at midpalate the taste profile inches its way towards the smoke-tobacco-ash-tar side of the flavor scale, but is sweet. Concludes moderately oily and lightly salty. 90-95 points  - wineenthusiast.com.

Other reviews... A sophisticated and refined Talisker, if that’s not an oxymoron. But this is certainly true when compared to the 10 year old. This 18 year old is deeper too, with less of the fishnets, more of oak boat docks. Less lemongrass, more fruit gum drops. There’s still that knock-out punch on the finish. There’s a fine line between polishing the rough edges of a beautifully powerful whisky and ripping its heart and soul out with a knife by dumbing it down. This whisky has not crossed that line. A fabulous whisky! 93 points - - maltadvocate.com