You can spend years waiting for a new release in Talisker's core range then two come along at once! Hot on the heels of Talisker Storm in early 2013 comes Talisker's Port Ruighe, pronounced 'Port Ree'.
This no age statement release is finished in Port wine casks, imparting a new dimension to this Isle of Skye single malt.
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.
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.
Milk chocolate becomes cocoa and oak with mocha notes and the faintest hint of that orange pith once again.
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.
Talisker Skye and 10 are my favourite whiskies because they are moderately smoky and taste of the sea. Port Ruighe is a departure from this theme. Less smoky / maritime but richer and sweeter. If I'm honest I prefer Skye/ 10 but this is still worthy of being in my drinks cabinet for times when you fancy something different.
The port seems to push the characteristic pepperiness of Talisker into the background; it's still there but not as intense. Very smooth whisky at 1st sip and at finish with a warming afterglow. Love it
For someone who likes the kick as well as the smoothness, this ticks the box
A very good whisky l like this s lot has a bit of a kick well worth a try cheers
Excellent malt on 2nd bottle both bought by my partner for me
