TALISKER PORT RUIGHE 700ML

Description

Talisker distillery is an Island single malt Scotch whisky distillery based in Carbost, Scotland on the Isle of Skye. This Scottish West Coast distillery is operated by Diageo who also own distilleries such as Lagavulin, Cardhu, Cragganmore, Mortlach and many more. The distillery was founded in 1830 but rebuilt in 1880. The malted barley used in production comes from Muir of Ord and Talisker has an unusual feature, swan neck lye pipes. A loop in the pipes takes the vapour from the stills to the worm tubs so some of the alcohol already condenses before it reaches the cooler. It then runs back into the stills and is distilled again. Talisker now has an output of three and a half million litres of spirit per annum.

In 2014 Talisker introduced this whisky to the world and before long it became a single malt whisky with a big bold reputation. The Port Ruighe (pronounced Port-Ree) was considered a bit of a step up from the entry point whiskies that Talisker were offering, the Storm and the 10 years old. Talisker are now hitting the industry hard with no age statement bottling’s and very tasty ones at that. The construction of this fine Scotch whisky is the result of maturing whisky in European and American refill casks some of which have been heavily charred. The whiskies from these barrels are then transferred into barrels that previously held port for finishing. The result is a hit single malt with rich flavours and traditional attributes. This is available at haven wines.

Nose: After a wave of initial sea spray, the nose becomes more complex with Crayola crayons, orange pith and a touch of white chocolate. Demerara and even sticking plaster emerge briefly along with plummy, umeshu notes.

Palate: Initial characteristic Talisker brine once again but much sweeter than usual. Thick and mouth coating like the Storm with chilli and a little chocolate orange. Increasingly smoky – much smokier than the nose suggests.

Finish: Milk chocolate becomes cocoa and oak with mocha notes and the faintest hint of that orange pith once again.

Overall: Alongside the distillery style there are similarities with Talisker Storm with the thicker, oilier mouthfeel and wood smoke. Port Ruighe has taken on additional characteristics from the Port casks however, adding sweetness and different notes such as plum and chocolate.