Talisker – 11 Year Old Special Release 2022 Single Malt Scotch Whisky (70cl, 55.1%)

This is the 2022 Special Release from Talisker, an 11 year old single malt matured in first fill ex-bourbon casks. It is bottled at 55.1% in a 70cl bottle. The nose is maritime, with a light spice prickle and the impression of a beach bonfire of dry seaweed, followed by saltiness, marine engines and fresh linen. The palate is smoothly oily, sweet and smoky-spicy with a fruity hint, like an orchard seen through smoke and sea mist. A salty balance in the middle leads into a chilli pepper catch, and water brings out the sweet fruit and salt. The finish is long and lightly smoky, with lingering warming spice.