Port Askaig - 100 Proof | Whisky Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Isle of Islay, Scotland.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation & Maturation: Details about the specific distillation and maturation processes are not provided, but the whisky is noted to be non-colored and non-chill filtered. The light color suggests refill cask usage, indicating a potentially younger whisky.
Age Statement: No age statement provided.
ABV: 57.1% (100 proof Imperial).
Bottle Design: The label is described as looking "very ancient" and "dirty," suggesting a rustic or traditional aesthetic.

Nose: Crisp peated malt, sea spray, lemon oil, and licorice.
Palate: Peat smoke, salted caramel, intertwined with herbal notes, spice smoke, star anise, and ginger. The whisky is described as having a light sweetness, peppery notes, milk chocolate, and a fruity aftertaste with a hint of vanilla. Some mineral notes and a slight dryness are also mentioned.
Finish: Slowly drying on the palate, with a sweet, fruity aftertaste.

Port Askaig is a brand from an independent bottler, initially only bottling whiskies from Caol Ila distillery without the allowance to name the distillery. Over time, the brand has evolved to include whiskies from various Islay distilleries, though specific sources are not disclosed.

Port Askaig is named after a small town on the east coast of Islay, significant for its ferry ports and lifeboat rescue station. The whisky embodies the "warmth and character of Islay," with its flavor profile influenced by the island's tempestuous weather and maritime environment.

Horst Luening describes the whisky as "wonderful" even at full strength, noting that it is not burning at all despite its high ABV. He appreciates the whisky's quality and finds it to be a good value at its price point.
"This is wonderful. It covers your mouth. It's not burning at all. Incredible." - Horst Luening on tasting the whisky at full strength.

Port Askaig 100 Proof is a non-aged statement single malt from Islay, non-colored, non-chill filtered, with a 57.1% ABV.
It offers a flavor profile rich in peat smoke, sea spray, and sweet, fruity notes, with a light color suggesting younger whisky aged in refill casks.
The whisky's identity is closely tied to the Isle of Islay, reflecting the island's maritime climate and peated whisky tradition.
Horst Luening praises the whisky for its quality, especially noting its impressive balance and flavor at full strength.

Peat Lovers: Individuals who enjoy heavily peated and smoky whiskies will likely appreciate Port Askaig 100 Proof for its intense smoke and peat character.
Adventurous Drinkers: Those looking to explore the diverse profiles of Islay whiskies without the influence of age statements might find this offering intriguing.
Value Seekers: Given its quality at a relatively affordable price point, budget-conscious whisky enthusiasts looking for a robust Islay single malt may find this to be an excellent choice.