The latest whisky from Port Askaig — the independent bottler that specializes exclusively in the whiskies of Islay — is an 18 year old expression from an undisclosed distillery. The single cask release was aged in a bourbon cask and yielded just 250 bottles.

Considerable peat on the nose quickly blows off to reveal a surprising degree of fruit, with clear notes of strawberry and orange peel. It’s a great one-two punch of smoke and sweetness, both elements in balance. The palate shift gears and, again showcasing ample peat, pumps out notes of lemon oil and spun sugar, which gives the whisky a huge and surprisingly sweet character. The finish sees an almond note emerging along with lingering hints of chocolate. Altogether it’s beautiful and elegant, and one of the best releases from the brand to date.

101.6 proof.

A / $255 / portaskaig.com

Port Askaig 18 Years Old

$255

9.5

Rating

9.5/10

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Christopher Null

Christopher Null is the founder and editor in chief of Drinkhacker. A veteran writer and journalist, he also operates Null Media, a bespoke content creation company.

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