Port Ellen 25 Years Old Douglas Laing The Platinum Selection Cask DL 3478 57.5% 1982

Professionele reviews

Serge Valentin (90)

Colour: amber. Nose: this one starts all on coffee and dark chocolate, with a slightly subdued peat once more but a very obvious smokiness. More wood smoke that is... Then a little orange liqueur, pepper, dried Chinese mushrooms (the large black ones), gunpowder, maybe a little rubber (but I wouldn’t say this is sulphury), prunes... Let’s see what happens with a little water: big notes of pencil shavings do arise, as well as a little shoe polish and pipe tobacco. A little drier. Mouth (neat): it’s truly one of these peat’n’sherry monsters, with a huge attack on caramel and pepper, maybe a tad cloying that is. Oily mouth feel. Goes on with a continuous fight between the thick sherry (orange liqueur, prunes, chocolate, blackcurrant jam) and the peaty and slightly bitter pepper. Hot, quite immense but maybe not too subtle... With water: drier, more on coffee, soy sauce, salty liquorice and balsamic vinegar. Finish: very long, with a balance that’s perfect now. Comments: nobody won the fight. This is a rather extreme – and sulphurless - sherried Port Ellen.

BOW (92)

Port Ellen 25 Years Old Douglas Laing: A Platinum Expression of Islay's Finest

Port Ellen, once a legendary distillery on the shores of Islay, lives on through exceptional releases like the Port Ellen 25 Years Old from Douglas Laing's The Platinum Selection series. Distilled in April 1982 and bottled in June 2007 at a robust 57.5% ABV, this expression encapsulates the essence of Islay's maritime terroir and the mastery of Port Ellen's craft. With only 512 bottles available, the Port Ellen 25 is a rare and coveted gem that beckons enthusiasts to savor the flavors of a bygone era.

Nose:
The journey into the Port Ellen 25 begins with an enticing and complex nose that intertwines smoky sweetness with an intense oak presence. Exotic fruits dance alongside a refreshing hint of menthol, creating a sensory experience reminiscent of Islay's coastal charm. The nose evolves with a touch of spiciness, maritime notes of salt and peat, and a subtle undertone of banana. It is a symphony of aromas that sets the stage for the indulgent tasting experience to follow.

Taste:
The palate of the Port Ellen 25 is a celebration of Islay's iconic peat, where the smoky and peaty elements take center stage. Roasted nuances and dark chocolate weave seamlessly with the fruity character, creating a rich and multi-layered flavor profile. A touch of honey adds a delicate sweetness that balances the robust peat and smoke, showcasing the whisky's depth and complexity.

Finish:
The finish of the Port Ellen 25 is a continuation of the peaty journey, leaving a lasting impression on the palate. Roasted notes persist, accompanied by a subtle spiciness and a touch of bitterness that adds a delightful contrast. The fruity sweetness lingers, providing a harmonious conclusion to a memorable tasting experience.

Conclusion:
Port Ellen 25 Years Old Douglas Laing, part of The Platinum Selection series, stands as a testament to the legacy of Port Ellen Distillery and the artistry of Islay's whisky craftsmanship. From the alluring nose to the intricate palate and the enduring finish, each sip offers a glimpse into the rich tapestry of flavors that define Islay's peated whiskies. With only 512 bottles available, this expression represents not only a rare commodity for collectors but also a journey back in time to savor the finest offerings from Islay's iconic distillery. The Port Ellen 25 is an invitation to explore the depths of Islay's maritime influence and the enduring allure of Port Ellen's spirit.