Talisker – 43 Year Old Special Release 2021 "Xpedition Oak" Single Malt Scotch Whisky (70cl, 49.7%)

This is a Talisker single malt aged 43 years, released in 2021 as the Xpedition Oak edition and bottled at 49.7% in a 70cl bottle. Only 1830 bottles were filled, a nod to the year the distillery was founded. Adventurer James Aiken carried barrel staves on a solo crossing of the Atlantic, following the route of the Talisker team's 3264-mile rowing challenge. The staves were then placed in ten casks of whisky that had matured for at least 43 years. The pack includes a piece of one of the staves. Tasting notes mention bruised apple, wax and varnished wood on the nose, then a juicy, sweet palate with sea salt and pepper, ending in a long, chilli-pepper finish.