Port Ellen 17th Release Diageo Special Releases 37yo 2017 51% 700ml

Port Ellen, a distinguished single malt whisky with a storied past, was originally established in 1825 and ceased operations in 1983. The distillery was reconstructed in 1966/1967 and functioned through the 1970s before closing again. Despite its closure, Port Ellen's legacy endures through its rare and coveted whiskies. The Port Ellen 17th Release is a 37-year-old whisky, distilled in 1979 and bottled in 2017 as part of Diageo's Special Releases. With only 2,988 bottles available, this expression is a gem for collectors and connoisseurs alike. Matured in a combination of refill American oak and European oak casks, this whisky is bottled at its natural cask strength of 51% ABV. The aroma is a captivating blend of dried fruit, tar, honey, smoked chicken, leather, grain, and BBQ notes. On the palate, it is full-bodied and bold, with a strong yet balanced alcohol presence complemented by wood aromas. The extensive 37-year maturation process has yielded a whisky that is both complex and sophisticated. The Port Ellen 17th Release transitions from light, sweet fruit notes to deeper, oakier, and smokier characteristics. The whisky's origins from the now-closed Port Ellen distillery on Islay amplify its allure and exclusivity. This 37-year-old single malt was matured in refill American oak hogsheads from 1979 until its selection and bottling in 2017. In summary, the Port Ellen 17th Release is a rare and highly desirable single malt with a layered aroma and flavor profile that has developed over 37 years of aging. The limited availability makes it an exclusive treasure for whisky aficionados.

FAQs

• What makes the Port Ellen 17th Release so special?

  The Port Ellen 17th Release is distinguished by its 37-year aging process, limited availability of only 2,988 bottles, and its origins from the historic and closed Port Ellen distillery on Islay.

• What type of casks were used for maturation?

  This whisky was matured in a combination of refill American oak and European oak casks.

• What is the ABV of the Port Ellen 17th Release?

  The Port Ellen 17th Release is bottled at a natural cask strength of 51% ABV.

• How does the closure of the Port Ellen distillery affect the whisky?

  The closure of the Port Ellen distillery in 1983 makes its remaining whiskies incredibly rare and highly sought after, adding a historical and collectible value to each bottle.

Tasting Notes

• Aroma: Dried fruit, tar, honey, smoked chicken, leather, grain, BBQ, peat, pineapple, apple, banana, lemon grass, citrus, perfume-like floral notes.
• Taste: Full-bodied, liquorice, herbal honey, lemon sour, spicy spices, plums, cinnamon, ginger, tannin, white fruit sweetness, peat, floral notes, smoky, tar.
• Finish: Long, lingering, floral, savory, cinnamon, malt sweetness, herbal honey, ginger, tannin, salty, cold smoke, old leather.
• Overall: The Port Ellen 17th Release offers a superbly well-balanced experience, starting with a captivating aroma that evolves into a complex and elegant palate. The finish is long and memorable, with floral and savory notes that linger. A must-try for any Islay whisky lover.

Reviewer's Opinion

As a whisky reviewer, the Port Ellen 17th Release stands out as a magnificent dram. From its intriguing aroma to its well-balanced palate and long-lasting finish, this whisky excels in every aspect. The combination of light fruit and deep smoky notes makes it a complex and sophisticated choice. Its rarity and historical significance add to its allure, making it a must-have for serious whisky enthusiasts.