Whisky Review/Tasting: Port Ellen 8th Release 29 years 1978/2008

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Port Ellen Distillery, Islay, Scotland.
Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation and Maturation Process: The whisky was distilled in 1978 and bottled in 2008, making it a 29-year-old whisky. It likely involves a significant amount of refill casks, with minimal to no sherry cask influence noted.
Age Statement: 29 years.
Color and Clarity: The whisky is described as quite light in color, suggesting a predominance of refill casks in its maturation process.
Bottle Design: Not specifically described, but it is part of the annual release range from Port Ellen, which is known for its collectibility and distinctive presentation.

Balance of Flavors: The whisky presents a balanced profile of peat smoke, vanilla, caramel, maritime aromas, and fruits. The peat smoke is noted as intense but not overwhelming.
Unique Characteristics: The flavor evolves upon dilution, with the smoke initially fading to reveal lighter fruits and sea salt, then redeveloping into a more smoky and fruity profile with a hint of spiciness. The absence of bitterness suggests the use of American oak, likely second and third fill hogsheads.
Comparison: The peat intensity is less than that of other Islay whiskies like Lagavulin, Laphroaig, and Ardbeg.

Distillery History: Port Ellen was founded in 1825, closed in 1983, and has since achieved cult status. Its casks were initially used in the blend whisky industry before being discovered by independent bottlers.
Production Insights: The distillery produced a variety of cask types for the blended whisky industry, leading to a diverse range of flavor profiles among its bottlings.

Islay Heritage: Port Ellen is a classic Islay malt, known for its peaty and maritime character, reflective of its island heritage.
Collectibility: The annual releases from Port Ellen have become highly collectible, with dwindling stocks and increasing demand driving up prices.

"Port Ellen 8th release, 29 years old, 1978 to 2008. Is it worth the money people are asking for today? No, this is a good whisky, $100, 150 euros, 200 pounds."
"The hype has a peak. And if you're a collector and want to make money out of this bottle, you have to sell when people try to fill up their collections."

Port Ellen 8th Release is a 29-year-old single malt from Islay, with a light color indicating refill cask maturation.
The flavor profile is balanced, with peat smoke, vanilla, caramel, maritime aromas, and fruits.
The distillery's history and its transition from blending casks to collectible single malts provide an interesting narrative.
The whisky is part of Islay's rich distilling heritage and has become highly collectible due to its rarity.
Expert opinion suggests the whisky is excellent but questions the high collector prices it commands.

Peat Lovers: Those who enjoy a balanced peat profile with complexity beyond just smoke.
Collectors: Individuals interested in rare and collectible whiskies with significant historical value.
Islay Enthusiasts: Fans of Islay whiskies looking to explore different expressions from the region, especially those less intense than the likes of Lagavulin or Laphroaig.