[51.0%・37 Years Old・Bottled in 2017・Official Bottling・Limited Release of 2988 Bottles]
Nose:
Light fruits and orange zest, the peat and oak together create quite a sophisticated depth, dry twigs and ink with this maritime seafood influence that comes with this attractive seaweed saltiness, almost like a fisherman’s wharf, or the pier at Oban. The peat smoke is gentle and comfortingly stretches the spectrum of the dram.
Palate & Finish:
Succulent squeeze of oranges, tropical fruits and spices leading the front palate, energetic and charming with the peat patiently grows more intense until it becomes truly astounding, all the while the delicious buttery malt lays a sensational foundation.
Lemon, orange crisp and cinnamon with the elongated maltiness leading to a warming finish.
Thoughts:
I prefer this over the 16th Release quite a bit, the 17th Release almost feels like a renaissance for Port Ellen (which is different to a revival of Port Ellen that is actually happening). A relaxed malt, but one that has been executed to near perfect precision. Now if only I could afford a bottle, or a case..
☆☆ [Highly Recommended]
P.S. Thank you to Mr. Simon McGoram and the rest of the Diageo and Leo Burnett Sydney team for arranging the tasting experience. It is much appreciated.
Photo credit to Esmond.
-Nicholas
WhiskNick 