Talisker Skye

Talisker Skye, NAS, 45,8 %

The Talisker Skye is the latest NAS addition to the core range from Talisker Distillery. It was released around one year ago. Talisker Skye has been matured in a combination of refill American oak ex-bourbon casks and rejuvenated (freshly charred) casks. We are told this cask selection will give us a whisky with more spices and more vanilla than what we are used to from Talisker. Well shall see about that...

The ABV of 45,8 % is chosen as this is the old bottling strength for Talisker. It equals 80 British proof; not to be confused with the proof system used in the USA where you simply multiply the ABV by 2.

You can purchase the Talisker Skye in Norway at NOK 515 (3621901), and online in the UK at around GBP 35. It is currently not available in Sweden.

Nose (21/25): Light and delicate nose. Vanilla, soft smoke (not very noticeable at all), a hint of fresh oak, sweet caramel and sweet licorice.

Taste (22/25): The classic Talisker peppery notes are very much present, and they might even be upped a bit - as promised. Rich and soft wood smoke. A touch of oak. Quite a creamy mouthfeel - almost buttery.

Finish (21/25): Medium long finish. Dark chocolate, cocoa, sweetened coffee and vanilla. Remains creamy al the way to the end.

Balance (21/25): A fine entry level dram, I would say. But it is nowhere near the magic of the Talisker 10 YO, which I really do love.

Score (85/100)

Image from Master of Malt.

Sláinte! - Thomas