Talisker 8 Year Old (Special Release 2018) Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product pictured.

A homage to the Talisker 8 year old from the 1970s and 80s which helped build the brand's reputation internationally, it comes bottled at the strength used by one-time owners, John Walker & Sons Ltd. We didn't get to try this at the official Diageo launch, however we received a small sample a few weeks later.

Tasting note: Deep gold. Pepper-driven on the nose with lanolin-laced peat and latent citrus adding freshness. The palate follows through in an intense, oily Talisker with the spices ratcheted up. Some smokey bacon before the sweet malt thickens then recedes in a wave of coastal character. Chillie heat, lanolin and white pepper finish the whisky in text-book distillery style. It's the quintessential Winter warmer. 59.4% Alc./Vol.

Other reviews... Matured in first-fill bourbon barrels, this is the first Special Releases Talisker since 2013. Peppery tweed, ozone, coconut oil, and subtle smoke on the nose. The palate features woodsmoke and chili, toffee, and green berries. White pepper, sea salt, and a savory note in the finish.
88 points - whiskyadvocate.com, reviewed by: Gavin Smith (Winter 2018)