Port Ellen 1982 DL Old Malt Cask 26yo Sherry Butt 50% 700ml

The Port Ellen 1982 DL Old Malt Cask 26yo Sherry Butt is a highly sought-after whisky with a unique and complex flavor profile. Distilled in 1982 at the renowned Port Ellen Distillery on Islay, this exceptional whisky was aged for 26 years in a Sherry Butt before being bottled in 2008 by Douglas Laing, one of the most respected independent bottlers in the industry. With only 721 bottles ever produced, it offers an exclusive experience for whisky enthusiasts. The nose is initially round with notes of vanilla and praline, but it soon develops into a more unusual profile with hints of honey, resin, and oriental pastries such as baklavas and orange blossom water. These flavors are unexpected, yet they are incredibly satisfying and well-balanced.

On the palate, the whisky is round and full-bodied, with a hint of nervousness that is characteristic of Port Ellen whiskies. The initial flavors of honey are followed by sharp lemon notes, coastal elements of seashells, and fresh almonds. The whisky is further enriched by the addition of grass, cut apples, kumquats, and quinces, creating a multi-layered taste experience.

The finish is long and satisfying, with a hint of something like chutney, possibly mango, which adds to the complexity of the whisky. Despite the many layers of flavor, the whisky remains perfectly balanced, making it a true delight to drink. This rare release is perfect for both seasoned whisky connoisseurs and newcomers alike, offering a unique journey through its myriad of flavors.

FAQs

• What makes Port Ellen 1982 DL Old Malt Cask 26yo Sherry Butt unique?

  This whisky is unique due to its aging process in a Sherry Butt for 26 years, the complex flavor profile, and the limited production of only 721 bottles.

• What is the alcohol by volume (ABV) of this whisky?

  The ABV of Port Ellen 1982 DL Old Malt Cask 26yo Sherry Butt is 50%.

• Who bottled this whisky?

  This bottling was done by Douglas Laing, a prominent independent bottler known for their exceptional releases.

Tasting notes

• Aroma: Vanilla, praline, honey, resin, oriental pastries, baklavas, orange blossom water, flint, yellow pears, rubber, sheep dung, burnt sugar, berries, welding residue.
• Taste: Honey, sharp lemon, seashells, fresh almonds, grass, cut apples, kumquats, quinces, salty, smoky, metallic/funky notes, smoked berries, creamy, light spiciness, thin orange juice.
• Finish: Long, satisfying, chutney-like (possibly mango), oily, creamy, smoked wild berries cream, light pepper heat, thin multivitamin juice, maritime notes.
• Overall: A beautifully complex and balanced whisky that evolves from initial sweet and nutty aromas to a palate rich with fruit, coastal elements, and subtle smokiness. The finish is long and layered, making it a highly enjoyable and memorable dram.

Reviewer's opinion

Having sampled the Port Ellen 1982 DL Old Malt Cask 26yo Sherry Butt, it’s clear that this is a magnificent whisky with an extraordinary range of flavors. The interplay between sweet, fruity, and coastal notes is truly exceptional, and the long, satisfying finish leaves a lasting impression. Whether for relaxed sipping or a special occasion, this Port Ellen release is a remarkable testament to the distillery's legacy.