Port Askaig 8 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky review

Tasting Notes

Nose: Charcoal smoke and citrus lead, supported by vanilla, gingerbread and a faint tarry coastal note.

Palate: Smoky peat with honeyed toast, lemon and grapefruit, followed by liquorice and pepper.

Finish: Long and smoky, with dark chocolate, ginger and a peppery warmth.

Summary

This is a 45.8% ABV, non-chill-filtered and naturally coloured Islay single malt from Port Askaig’s current core range. Elixir Distillers combines several oak types, including bourbon, toasted American oak and PX sherry casks, for a balanced style of citrus, coastal smoke, sweetness and spice.

Interesting Facts

• Port Askaig is an independent Elixir Distillers brand, first created in 2009; it is named for the village and harbour on Islay’s north-east coast rather than a distillery.
• The supplying Islay distillery is not disclosed.
• Master Blender Oliver Chilton oversees the maturation and blending of Port Askaig expressions.
• The release is bottled without chill filtration or added colouring.