Port Ellen 37 Year Old 1978 16th Release

When this whisky was poured during the Diageo Masterclass at Spirits in the Sky, the tension in the room was palpable. For many, this was the highlight of the tasting – or even the festival. And why not. It does not happen every day that one can try a bottle that will set you back 3000 EUR, right? Port Ellen always has had something magical. But whether it can fulfill that promise? Read on!

Yes, this is textbook Port Ellen with hints of citrus fruit, some salty air, a touch of putty and some green garden herbs including a leaf of mint. There is a sweetness in there that reminds me of cough candy with a hint of nuts. Some Wellington boots, used by the neighbor to work in his garden for the last two hours. The interior of a new Lamborghini. Hint of tea from Morocco. I think it works like a charm.

Grand arrival on lime juicy with sea salt (should such a thing exist), very brackish and peaty with some yellow apples and again some green herbs. Sage and camphor with a hint of mint.

The finish is very long and remains smoky until the death. Delicious!

A great Port Ellen without a doubt, but the 7th Release is still my favorite. Between 3.000 and 4.000 EUR. Oh, come on! This is totally ridiculous. I cannot afford this! And I’m sure many of you feel the same way. I bought my 7th Release less than ten years ago and paid around 300 EUR for it. If I knew then what I know now…

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