Talisker 10 year old single malt is a classic Island whisky from the Isle of Skye. Aged for a minimum of 10 years in American oak casks, this welcome member of Diageo's Classic Malts series has been recognised numerous times for its excellence. Immensely satisfying stuff, with whiffs of warm peat blending with coastal air, balanced by orchard fruit and juicy barley. A spectacular after dinner dram.
It was an Editor's Choice at Whisky Magazine, a gold medal winner at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2017 and was awarded 'Best Islands Single Malt' at the 2017 World Whiskies Awards.
A fresh and fragrant nose. Through thick, pungent smoke comes sweet pear and apple peels, with pinches of maritime salt from kippers, seaweed.
It's a bonfire of peat crackling with black pepper, with a touch of brine and dry barley. A welcome delivery of orchard fruit provides a delicate and beautiful balance.
In a long finish, bonfire embers toast malt and crystallise a sugary underlay.
Ive had the Talisker 10 many times, but I cant get past the fact that its just a little lacklustre. Its not as punchy as an Islay or even an Island malt like Ledaig and its also not as complex and fruity as something like Arran, Macallan or some Balvenies. It doesn't really combine the best of both but achieves it to a certain extent. Its just... ok. Not bad, but really not really great either.
My entry into the world of whisky. Tries it eventually on my 3rd visit to the beautiful isle. Absolutely fell in love with it and talisker bay beach.
I hesitated to purchase based on many reviews, some simply categorizing it as complicated. Some seem to fear Talisker. I am pleased I made the purchase. Definitely a full-flavored dram. The smoke and underlying sweetness are there, as is the pepper at the end that rushes through then fades.
Its a special drink ..I remeber my times on the Isle of Sky ..as a youngster when climbing ...soft with a "bite of its own defines itself beyond others, but clear apperance taste of smokey peat flavour, strong and powerful, heart warming and a real feel of the of the scotish iles ..this a drink to savoir and lingers on ...a man size drink but sexy for the lady in your life..
I really liked the way the smokiness lingers as the dram hits bottom. Nice bloom fills your chest, gently not overwhelming. First sips makes the second one a given.
