Port Ellen 10th Release 54.6% 1978

Distileerderij	Port Ellen
Bottelaar	OB
Serie	Annual Release
Gebotteld voor
Gedistilleerd op	1978
Gebotteld	2010
Land	Schotland
Streek	Islay
Leeftijd	31
Cask Type	Refill Sherry
Vatnummer
Alcohol percentage	54.6
Inhoud	0,70
Conditie	In originele verpakking
Etiket	Perfect
Voorraad	0

Professionele reviews

Serge Valentin (95)

Colour: straw.

Nose: oh this is restrained and elegant! Exactly the opposite of some exuberant peat monsters, this is very subtle, on old papers, almond milk, shellfish, old slightly musty spice mix, soot and quite a lot of cut apples. I think I’ll try to compare this one with the 22yo 1978 Rare Malts one day, I seem to remember that one was a true monster- exactly the opposite of this new 1978. With water: the beast still roars! Water woke up a tarry peatiness that, precisely, reminds me of the Rare Malt (that I used to call ‘the Pirelli whisky’ – nothing to do with the naked girls on the calendars).

Mouth (neat): ah yes, yes yes! More vibrant than the nose and ueber-lemony, superbly zingy, ‘chiselled’ and kippery. Greatest notes of olive oil and marzipan in the background. Gets then ashier and saltier at the same time. I don’t think we used to know how PE would behave after 30 years of age, I think we have the answer. With water: perfection made whisky. Please call the anti-maltoporn brigade.

Finish: very long. Superb salty aftertaste and a contrasting spice blast (carvi, pepper, cloves, bitter almonds).

Comments: wow. To think that we’ll have all these new old Port Ellens to try in the coming years! And if PE was the peaty Islayer that aged best? Shall we soon see the revenge of the old lady on her thundering neighbours? Imagine there’s probably much more old PE than old Ardbeg around…

BOW (95)

A Captivating Whisky of Distinction

The Port Ellen 10th Release 54.6% is a captivating whisky that embodies the distinction of the Port Ellen Distillery. With an alcohol content of 54.6%, this single malt whisky offers a captivating and memorable drinking experience.

As part of the 10th release from Port Ellen, this whisky represents a milestone in the distillery's legacy. Port Ellen Distillery ceased production in 1983, making its whiskies highly sought after and treasured by whisky enthusiasts and collectors worldwide.

The Port Ellen 10th Release 54.6% has been carefully crafted and matured to perfection. It pours a rich amber color, inviting the senses with its alluring aroma. The nose is greeted with a symphony of smoky notes, hints of coastal brine, and a touch of sweetness. It is a sensory journey that captivates from the first whiff.

On the palate, this whisky delivers a complex and harmonious flavor profile. Layers of flavor unfold, with the interplay of peat smoke, maritime influences, and a subtle fruitiness. There are nuances of oak, vanilla, and spices, creating a truly captivating and well-balanced experience.

The finish is long and satisfying, with lingering smokiness and a gentle warmth that lingers on the palate. It leaves a lasting impression, inviting you to savor the moment and contemplate the artistry behind this remarkable whisky.

The Port Ellen 10th Release 54.6% is a testament to the exceptional quality and craftsmanship of the Port Ellen Distillery. It is a whisky of distinction, cherished for its complexity, character, and the legacy it represents.

In conclusion, the Port Ellen 10th Release 54.6% is a captivating whisky that stands as a testament to the artistry and legacy of the Port Ellen Distillery. Its carefully crafted flavors and exceptional quality make it a cherished addition to any whisky collection, and a true delight to whisky enthusiasts seeking a remarkable and memorable drinking experience.

Whisky Notes (95)

Nose: exactly the kind of Port Ellen I like. Peat as a supporting act rather than a show stealer. Quite coastal and sooty, but in an elegant way. Subtle candied notes, a little honey, yellow apples… some vanilla… sweet almonds… Lovely wax as well. Now that I think about it, I adore waxy notes and they’re missing in too many Port Ellens but here it is! Bonus point. Faint medicinal notes as well. Traces of cured meat (cecina de León). Very complex and so smooth! Stunning. Mouth: again it doesn’t come rolling in. Starts sweetish and spicy before going to salty, kippery and herbal notes. Quite medicinal and ashy now, with sharp lemon. Perfect development, with a crescendo from rounder notes to sharper elements, as if the nose was meant to mislead us before showing its true character. Again wow. Finish: very long, ashy, with coal smoke, lemon and a bitter /
salty combo.

My first impression was to put this on the same height as my (so far) favourite Port Ellen 7th release. That one shows more emphasis on floral notes and vanilla, but both share a mix of feminine and masculine Port Ellen, if you know what I mean, and these are the most beautiful expressions in my opinion. After a direct comparison, the 10th release is wider and more complex, as well as a little more typically PE, so it deserves a higher score. We have a new favourite.