Talisker Skye
Island Single Malt Scotch Whisky 45.8%
Region: Islands, Scotland
Age: NAS
Strength: 45.8% ABV
Colouring: Yes
Chill Filtered: Yes
Island Single Malt Scotch Whisky 45.8%
Region: Islands, Scotland
Age: NAS
Strength: 45.8% ABV
Colouring: Yes
Chill Filtered: Yes
Talisker 10 is one of the most well known and well-loved Whiskies by enthusiasts and newbies alike. It is affordable, available and all round a great bottle. To go with the 10 year old expression there are two no-age-statements bottles normally nestled either side in gift packs: Talisker Skye and Talisker Storm.
“Made by the Sea”, the moto of Talisker is visibly pushed on all marketing and matches not only the salty contents but also the distillery etched on the rugged Isle of Skye.
Established in 1830, the branding really helps carry this heritage proudly with use of vintage maps and clear typography. While the Skye edition of Talisker came about in 2015 the current style of branding has barely changed since the 1980s.
Owned by Diageo, like most offerings, this bottle is chill filtered and has added colouring.
Described as a smoother, more round expression of Talisker, this certainly comes across on the nose as it feels dialled down and subdued with more vanilla and green lime. However you can certainly tell the Skye is a Talisker release from the distinct aroma of soft coast smoke and peppery spice.
The taste follows through with the rich maritime salty smoke which has now been doused with a good measure of caramel and cream. The earthy smoke is fantastically paired with the sweetness of this dram and is pleasantly balanced.
One of my favourite elements of the 10 year old is the punchy cracked black peppercorn finish. This is a bit more like salt and pepper shakers have been knocked into the glass.
Now overall this is a nice pleasant Island Whisky. Unfortunately, for this bottle, it will always be living in it’s older brothers shadow and is missing the rich, dense notes which are synonymous with Talisker.
It can be picked up just under £40, however, I would wait and spend a couple of extra quid to get the 10 year old and experience the full works. However, if you are not ready for the full-on taste, this is a great softer stepping stone into the Isle of Skye.
At the time of publishing, you can pick up the 70cl bottle for as low as £25 at Tesco, which is a great price!
Experience: 4/6
Nose: 4/6
Taste: 5/6
Value for Money: 4/6
17/24 Jeffs
Verdict: Going on up to the Talisker in the Skye
These reviews are done solely for entertainment and reference purposes.
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