Whisky Review/Tasting: Port Charlotte Islay Barley 2008

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Islay, Scotland
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Distillation Year: 2008
Maturation: Matured in American and European oak casks
Age Statement: No specific age statement, but it's a vintage whisky from 2008
ABV: 50%
Filtration: Non-chill filtered
Coloring: No coloring added
Peatiness: 40 ppm (phenol parts per million)
Bottle Design: Not specifically described, but the focus is on the whisky's natural characteristics and heritage

Nose: Fresh smoke, phenolic, with a hint of marine notes
Palate: Dominant smoke, black pepper, damp oak notes, a bit of bitterness from tannins, hints of black chocolate, and a subtle sweetness
Finish: Long and enduring with dark flavors like smoke, bitter oak, and a hint of leather
Overall: A complex balance of smoky, bitter, and sweet elements, with a fresh and phenolic smoke character

The whisky is made from Islay barley sourced from specific farms on Islay, emphasizing the local provenance and connection to the land.
The distillery had plans to build another distillery in Port Charlotte, but faced obstacles. There's hope that demand for their whisky might revive these plans.
Anecdotes about fishing laws in Scotland and the community lifestyle in Port Charlotte add a personal touch to the whisky's story.

Port Charlotte Islay Barley 2008 highlights the importance of local barley and Islay's unique terroir in crafting its distinct flavor profile.
The story of the distillery's connection to the local community and the significance of Islay's agricultural landscape are emphasized.

"Once again, a land and dram united" - highlighting the connection between the whisky and its place of origin.
The reviewer appreciates the non-chill filtered, no coloring approach, and the emphasis on local barley, indicating a preference for natural and authentic whisky production methods.

Port Charlotte Islay Barley 2008 is a single malt Scotch whisky from Islay, matured in American and European oak casks, with a 50% ABV and 40 ppm peatiness.
It features a complex flavor profile dominated by fresh, phenolic smoke, with notes of black pepper, damp oak, and a hint of sweetness.
The whisky's story is deeply rooted in Islay's agricultural heritage and the local community, with specific farms supplying the barley.
Cultural significance is tied to the emphasis on local ingredients and the geographical uniqueness of Islay.
The review highlights the whisky's natural production methods and its connection to the land and community.

Peat Lovers: Those who enjoy a strong, smoky flavor will appreciate the fresh, phenolic smoke character.
Whisky Connoisseurs: Individuals interested in the nuances of terroir and the impact of local ingredients on flavor.
Adventurous Drinkers: Those looking to explore complex flavor profiles with a balance of smoke, bitterness, and sweetness.