Port Charlotte 16 Year

Third dram of my day off. I'm pouring roughly half-ounce measures, perhaps less, so please consider this for the scores and overall reviews. It's the best I can manage with samples. Nose - Potent alcohol upfront with a very strong sweetness. This reminds me of a type of shoe varnish, though not leathery. Re-evaluating, the oak is overshadowed but a pleasant, clean, mild oak, almost like Buffalo Trace, is coming through. Very clear and captivating. This sweetness is overwhelming; it's a simple but intense sweetness. Possibly accompanied by savory BBQ sauce notes. I'm liking it and find it interesting how little the peat is noticeable here, yet it persists. Taste - Okay, this is the standout for the day so far. A full range of flavors. It begins with sugary candied sweetness, some light vanilla, oak emerges, then a robust peat reminiscent of Hawaiian pig roast, concluding with light oak and vanilla. There's also some spice, very classic Islay and oak influenced. Delightful whisky. This ought to become a regular offering for them. At around $100, it could be essential for a bar, even at $125. It's unfortunate this is a limited release. I'm assigning a gleefully high 3.0. This is one to actively seek out if the price is reasonable, not just to purchase if seen but to make an effort to find.

This feels like Port Charlotte 10 intensified. Time hasn't mellowed it; it's bolder, more assertive, with more peat and sweetness. The aroma presents heathery peat and menthol layered over the flavor of white grapes. It has an oily, sweet mouthfeel with a hint of pepper. The finish is long and sweet, maybe a bit too much for my preference. I decided not to buy a bottle, even with a winning lottery ticket, as the price was a deterrent. I'm relieved I passed. While it's a skillfully made whisky, the Sauternes casks are a bit overpowering for me. If you enjoy peat with a sugary profile, this sweet expression will likely appeal to you.

This is just a preliminary impression. The smoke is plentiful but harmonizes with the sweetness from the malt and cask influence. It's as if the smoke enhances and elevates the malt and sherry to the forefront. A remarkable and very tasty dram. While not mind-blowing for the cost, I'm not displeased. It possesses considerable complexity to discover over time.

The nose is strongly peachy with hints of salt and toffee sweetness. However, an underlying cheesy funk spoils it for me.

Wonderful for anyone who enjoys peaty whisky. Absolutely perfect with a very long finish.