Port Ellen 1983 26 Year Old Milano Whisky Festival 2009

Port Ellen 37 Year Old 1978 16th Release

When this whisky was poured during the Diageo Masterclass at Spirits in the Sky, the tension in the room was palpable. For many, this was the highlight of the tasting – or even the festival. And why not. It does not happen every day that one can try a bottle that will set you back 3000 EUR, right? Port Ellen always has had something magical. But...

Score 92/100

Pe2 Elements of Islay

The original Pe1, has gotten quite a reputation, and the follow up release has been highly anticipated, now with the release of the Pe2, selling out in just around 24 hours, does it live up to the hype? Nose: A light sherry sweetness, coupled with chocolate notes, good amounts of light wood smoke. It’s got a definite dirty earthiness to it. Quite...

Score 90/100

Port Ellen 26 Year Old 1982 Douglas Laing Old Malt Cask

In 2009 the Belgian importer The Nectar bottled this Port Ellen. Only 193 bottles were available and obviously those are all gone. Thanks to a Dutch friend, I was able to secure a sample. Oh, lovely nose on sweet and sour fruit (think mandarin, cider apples and lime) with a soft touch of vanilla and clear hints of pine cones. Once you get past...

Score 92/100

Port Ellen 1979 24 Year Old 3rd Release (2003)

Nose: this is the sharper, flinty / mineral kind of Port Ellen, although it’s not an extreme example. It has a slightly pungent profile that I associate with wet limestone, lemon and cut grass. Ethereal hints of nail polish as well. Quite some alcohol. It misses the feminine side of vanilla that softens the 7th or 9th release. Evolves on...

Score 91/100