Talisker 2023 Special Release Single Malt Scotch Whisky (20cl)

Colour

Deep amber with a ruby-red radiance and tawny copper undertones.

Nose

Mellow and drying, with a touch of spice once it settles down. The top notes are of sticky malt loaf with sultanas and dates as dried fruits lead the way, soon fading to become more maritime, with clean sea air, sea salt and sand dunes. Surging through this come mineral notes of chalk and a light, winey hint of macerated grape skins. At first, just a suggestion of peat smoke runs underneath, although the aroma becomes much smokier when water is added.

Palate

Creamy-smooth mouthfeel introduces a powerful, lightly sweet surge of rich fruit. It grows very salty, then fiercely peppery with gunpowder smoke; even a splash of water heightens the saltiness and the smoky punch.

Finish

Long, spicy and warming, it lingers with a chilli pepper bite that tilts toward mouth-cooling Sichuan pepper.