This limited edition Port Askaig bottling is a tribute to the wonderful flavours of Islay, from a distillery on the north-east coast of Islay, close to the village of Port Askaig. A blend of nine refill American oak hogsheads, five Oloroso sherry butts (made from a mixture of American and European oak) and three solera sherry butts (made from American oak) has been used to create this flavourful single malt with a medley of smoky, fruity and coastal notes. To fully showcase its distinct Islay character, this whisky is non chill-filtered and bottled at 45.8%.
Tasting Notes: Nose: Crumbly Wensleydale cheese, dotted with cranberries, evolves into smoky bacon crisps. Next, delectable cherry liqueur and the heavy succulence of boiled Christmas pudding, just set aflame.
Palate: A melange of juicy red grapes and smouldering wood chips, with just a touch of dried seaweed. Cherry tomatoes, left to confit in the oven a tad too long, and a smattering of hawthorn berries.
Finish: Salty and spicy notes remain – reminiscent of Tabasco sauce and smoked chipotle peppers. Echoes of berry tea and stewed plums linger on.