Talisker 18 Year

Continuing my exploration of whiskies in my inventory that I have yet to document. I have sampled various Talisker expressions numerous times over the years; it was among the initial single malts I appreciated more than two decades ago. It still surprises me that I have not reviewed any of them. The four bottles listed are the ones I presently possess. I recall not enjoying the Storm as much previously and remembering the 10-year favorably compared to the Distiller’s Edition and the 18-year. Overall, Talisker has been a favored distiller, not only due to my history with it but also based on its intrinsic qualities. Talisker Storm A deep, robust amber hue, similar to Pantone 130. The aroma presents sweet honey, apricot, smoky peat, iodine, and salt. The initial taste is spicy with a sweet undertone and a somewhat viscous texture. The conclusion is lengthy, featuring a significant amount of lingering white pepper spice that quickly shifts to iodine and substantial smoke, commencing as smoky peat and also exhibiting char throughout the extended finish. I appreciate the Storm more than I remembered. I suspect my prior mild disapproval stemmed from an incorrect assumption that it underwent wood finishing, akin to the added staves used by Maker’s Mark. At the time, I viewed this negatively, influenced by the practice of using wood chips in some California wineries, which was considered "cheap." Maker's Mark has achieved remarkable success with their wood-finished series, which does involve added staves, but I have no confirmation that Talisker Storm utilizes that method. Talisker Storm offers a pleasing equilibrium of sweetness and smoke. Its current retail price is just over $50. Would I purchase it again? Yes, if only to complement the 10-year. No Age Statement. The pale color suggests no added coloring, though neither the bottle nor the website confirm this. 45.8% ABV. Talisker 10 The color is a few shades deeper than the Storm; a burnt orange, close to Pantone 138. The aroma is more pronounced than the Storm's, with an enhanced fruity intensity, revealing light honey, some lemon custard, dates, clove, sea salt, smoky peat, and even a Laphroaig-reminiscent Band-Aid note. Again, there is a subtle palate viscosity, increased intensity, and an almost acidic citrus element. The finish is shorter than the Storm's, with less intense smokiness, and also presents a hint of sweet vanilla and orange bitters. I have expressed in multiple reviews my dissatisfaction with the comparatively low alcohol content in some whiskies; 40% ABV is the minimum allowed, and several distillers bottle at 43%. The elevated ABV in each of these Talisker samples is not only valued for its suggestion of a focus on craftsmanship over economics but also enhances the intricate flavors. Talisker 10 is available for approximately $60 retail. Would I purchase it again? Absolutely. Talisker Distiller’s Edition The Distiller’s Edition is even darker than the 10-year, attributed to sherry cask aging; a clear Pantone 153. The wonderfully complex aroma displays chocolate-covered cherries, bacon jam, a hint of cool menthol, and noticeable vanilla, which tempers (but doesn't eliminate) the smoky peat found in the 10-year. The palate has a touch of glycerin, honey, dried orange peel, liquid pralines, and Honey-Nut Cheerios. A gentle spice leads to a mild smoky peat, some leathery dryness, and a cereal note. The Distiller’s Edition's fusion of peat and sweetness is a more subdued version of an Ardbeg Uigeadail or Corryvreckan, and it brings to mind an anecdote. A few years ago, an acquaintance who wasn't a whisky enthusiast joined me at Milroy’s in London’s SoHo. We sampled, in sequence, a 60.4% ABV Chichibu bottled exclusively for Milroy’s; a Glenfarclas 24, also for Milroy’s; a Hibiki 21; a Nikka Pure Malt 21; a Glendronach 25; and then the Ardbeg Corry, as I wished for him to experience a sweet-peat whisky. It was a miscalculation, and felt entirely out of place following the preceding drams, making the Corry (which I do enjoy) unappealing. In fact, I might have diminished his appreciation for peated whisky as a consequence (the positive aspect of that is one less competitor in purchases). In retrospect, the Talisker Distiller’s Edition would have been more suitable, as it showcases the same sweet and smoke profile in a more restrained manner. Would I purchase the Talisker Distiller’s Edition again? Yes. Diageo’s “Distiller’s Editions” undergo additional aging in sherry casks. The Talisker specifically takes the 10-year expression and then double-matures it in Amoroso casks. 45.8% ABV. This particular bottle was distilled in 2009 and bottled in 2019. Talisker 18 The 18-year exhibits a lighter color than the Distiller’s Edition but is darker than the 10-year, as expected with an additional eight years of aging; a clear Pantone 144. The aroma is sweet, with brown sugar and vanilla, a gentle and creamy lemon custard, and very subtle peat smoke. The palate is sweet, but a different sweetness than the Distiller’s Edition: honey, crème brûlée, and even a hint of bananas Foster. The finish presents white pepper, which lingers extensively, along with some smokiness that manifests as bacon. The peat is present, but it is notably less intense compared to the Storm (which I tasted immediately after this). Talisker 18 is an exceptional whisky, available for around $180. For me, it's more fitting for a special occasion. It warrants appreciation for its identity: an aged whisky from the Isle of Skye that conveys the power of the ocean with the refinement of 18 years of maturation. Would I purchase it again? As long as my finances permitted, yes. 45.8% ABV, consistent with the other Talisker expressions reviewed here. I find enjoyment in composing these “showdown” reviews, though the objective is not necessarily to establish a definitive ranking but rather to compare similar whiskies side-by-side to better highlight their distinct differences and strengths (or weaknesses). The general progression observed here, from first to last, is a reduction in smokiness and an increase in complexity. While my subjective scoring may vary, this does not imply that any of these are inherently “superior” to the others; all are commendable, but they possess differing characteristics. I would keep each one in my collection. Talisker has a dedicated following, and there is little I can add to the sentiments of those who already appreciate it (I count myself among them). The Storm emphasizes smoky peat; the "Storm" designation is fitting. The 10-year highlights the added complexity of a 10-year age statement (and the "softening" of the smoke). The Distiller’s Edition focuses on the increased sweetness from sherry cask finishing, and its intricate interaction with the peaty smoke. The 18-year is about the added complexity derived from extended aging. With increased age comes less overtness, leading to more contemplation; and on a pensive, rainy day, I find the 18 to be the most intellectually rewarding. On the whole, these are very good collectively, but not quite as superb as I had recalled.

A REVISIT TO TALISKER SHOWDOWNS Talisker Storm Talisker 10 Talisker Distiller’s Edition Talisker 18 (Last reviewed 9/30/23) It's cool in Connecticut. Chilly, even. Cool means fire. Fire means smoke. Smoke means Scotch whisky. And tonight that’s Talisker. Talisker Storm Honey, smoky peat, pumpkin pie, apricot, kelp, iodine, sea salt. Lightly viscous in the mouth with a honey and peppercorns morphing into a long finish with honey, pear, smoke, vanilla, cured meat, and char. I like the Storm more each time I try it. Not only are the aromatics and flavors powerful and complex, but it’s bottled at 45.8% ABV (vs 43% for average “better” whiskies), which enhances the aesthetics. It’s the least expensive of the lineup, and can be found between $60-$70. Would I buy it again? Yes. 3.75 NAS. The light color suggests that there is no coloring added, though neither the bottle nor website mention this. 45.8% ABV. Talisker 10 Like the Storm, but with the dial turned up. Lots of sweet (honey, apricot, pear) along with peaty smoke. Similar viscosity to the Storm. Long finish with pepper, vanilla, char, saline. I cannot believe that I rated this 4.0 two years ago (especially considering my history with this whisky; I’ve always loved it). The official 96 rating from a respected source is apt; we’re approaching rarified air here. Talisker 10 can be had for $70-80. Would I buy it again? Aye. It’s a tremendous whisky value. 4.5+ 10-year age statement. 45.8% ABV. Talisker Distiller’s Edition Darker than the Storm and 10-year due to the sherry-cask finishing. I could copy-paste my previous notes, as the impression is the same, so I will: “Wonderfully complex nose shows chocolate-covered cherries, bacon jam, a whiff of cool menthol, and evident vanilla, which suppresses (but does not eliminate) the smoky peat of the 10-year. The palate has a little glycerin, honey, dried orange peel, liquified pralines, and Honey-Nut Cheerios. A gentle spiciness leads to a slightly smoky peat, some leather dryness, and a cereal note.” A large company owns Talisker (and Lagavulin, Oban, and several other whisky brands), and its “Distiller’s Edition” adds sherry-cask aging to each. In the case of Talisker, the 10-year is double-matured in Amoroso casks. It retails for $80-$90. Would I buy it again? Affirmative. And I’ll need to, because I just polished off that bottle. 4.25 10-year age statement (distilled 2009; bottled 2019). 45.8% ABV. Talisker 18 Pomander, speck, and smoke, but the smokiness is tamped down by the sweetness. Not only honeyed like the other expressions, but carrying a crème brûlée caramelized-sugar aspect as well. If the 10-year is the Storm with the volume turned up, then the 18-year is the 10-year with the dial turned down a bit, but in a direction that’s more complex and assured. White pepper on the finish, along with bacon jam. Talisker 18 is more of a special-occasion whisky. It is an aged whisky from the Isle of Skye which shows the power of the ocean with the finesse of 18 years of aging. Tasted blind, it would not come across as energetic as the others. Would I buy it again? As long as I had the discretionary income, yes. 4.25 18-yr age statement. 45.8% ABV, consistent with the other Talisker expressions here. The Storm clearly has the youngest flavor profile of the group. The 10-year is the winner here; it is a combination of the strength of youth and the complexity of age. The Distiller’s Edition is nice, but the 10-year already has plenty of sweetness. And the 18 is very good, but it’s more mellow and restrained. N.B.: All spirits tasted neat in a Glencairn glass.

I've recently been enjoying whiskies from the islands, like Arran, Highland Park, and Talisker. So, when I had the chance to try an 18-year-old Talisker, I took it. It arrived today, and I was eager to dive in. Nose: It's immediately clear this is a clean, crisp, and expertly made spirit. There's a sherry fruitiness combined with lovely, tart pear and apple notes. The smoke is subtle, delicate, and floral, less intense than in the 10-year-old. It's more akin to the scent of smoked meat, so faint it initially wasn't obvious as smoke. A touch of sea spray binds it all together with a pleasant spice at the finish. Palate: A wonderfully rich and heavy entry. Peppery notes are present alongside warm, enveloping woody smoke. There's a hint of coffee, balanced by delicious salty bacon and creamy toffee. Pepper and mild chili build, with subtle hints of orange peel and chocolate. The complexity unfolds through layers of delightful richness. Finish: Long. The peppery heat evolves into chili, which is strong but in a good way. It's assertive without being harsh or overwhelming. The salty sea spray and smoke linger subtly in the background. When I reviewed the 10-year-old, I described it as embodying the comforting warmth one might seek after being exposed to the harsh Skye coast. For me, Talisker represents the lighthouse keeper weathering a storm, watching the waves batter the shore. I pictured that keeper in his mid-thirties, still young and vigorous, ready to face the tempestuous sea. The 18-year-old's lighthouse keeper is older now, weathered by a lifetime facing the violent ocean but at peace with it. This is the 18-year-old. It possesses all the power of the 10-year-old; it's bold, confident, and deeply complex. Yet, it's more composed, not subdued. It represents the culmination of the storm's fury and the tranquil aftermath. This is excellent. [Sampled from a 30 ml tasting portion. Pictured with a piece of volcanic rock from the Isle of Skye.] whisky taste #98

Nose presents sweet peat, fig, sultana, brine, iodine, butterscotch, pear, honey, smoked meat, candied orange, vanilla, allspice, clove, green apple, black pepper, and rich malt, with a mild to moderate ethanol burn. Taste offers oily, sweet peat, brine, green apple, pear, fig, plum, nectarine, spiced vanilla, salted caramel, iodine, allspice, kipper, honey-cured ham, lemon zest, chili pepper, clove, spicy oak, and mint, with a mild to moderate alcohol bite. The finish is medium long with sweet peat, green apple, and cured ham notes. This is a fantastic whisky. While clearly identifiable as Talisker, the malt is richer, the peat is less intense, and the spiced, fruity notes are more prominent. The meatiness is still there, but it's more like cured ham than the greasy, bacony off-note found in the 10 year. Interestingly, it brings to mind a rich Speyside like Craigellachie or Benromach. So, while that's all well and good, I have a significant issue with this one. I prefer the 10 year over the 18 year. I initially thought this, but pouring the 10 year alongside confirmed it. The 18 year is more complex and refined, but it lacks the raw character that I adore in the original. I understand there's considerable batch variation with the 18 year (mine is from 2019), and older batches are considered superior. I also know the 18 year can decline over time. This bottle was opened six months ago, so I doubt oxidation has had a major impact. Overall, it's great, but I'll be buying more of the 10 year at $60 instead of this at $150, and I'll be just as content.

Smell: As is typical for the distillery, it evokes the scent of a stormy sea! Wonderful smoldering embers and gentle peat, all very salty. Taste: Rich and full-bodied, warm and comforting, salty and sweet, with smoldering embers and light peat, all harmoniously combined. Always a fantastic drinking experience: one can picture enjoying it in an old lighthouse overlooking a stormy sea! Finish: The sweetish saltiness fills the mouth and lingers consistently through the medium-short finish. Consistently excellent, though not on par with the 25-year-old: it sits between that expression and the Ten-year-old. 4.50 rating ______________________________________________________ Smell: as always with Talisker, it seems to smell the stormy sea! Wonderful embers and light delicate peat, all very saline. Taste: full and full-bodied, warm and enveloping, salty and sweet, embers and light peat, all well blended. Always a great drink: you imagine sipping it in an old lighthouse with a stormy sea! Finish: the salty sweetish fills the mouth on the palate, and remains constant in the medium-short finish. Always excellent, even if not at the level of 25yo: it is positioned halfway between the latter and the Ten. 4.50 rating

To be clear, I'm a fan of Talisker. I enjoy the 10yr and think Storm is also great. The Distiller Edition was okay, but not worth it for me. This falls into that category. It's certainly a lovely scotch, and I had no issue finishing the bottle. I just don't see the justification for the price increase over the 10. I might even prefer the 10 straight up. The nose is refined, and the flavors are rich, but overall, it's just good. I expect to be amazed by an 18yr old in this price bracket (I did get mine on sale for $106). The signature Talisker toffee is present, but it's like you found a forgotten hard candy in your pocket for a year, peeled off the stuck-on wrapper, and ate it. There's also less smoke than I recall. I'm being overly critical because this should be absolutely amazing, and it's not. Despite all my negative comments, I can't in good conscience give this a low score, so....86/100.....Damn, the bottle is improving right at the very end...perhaps it needed more air or aging?