Port Askaig, a label of Islay single malts under the ownership of Elixir Distillers, is known for bottling undisclosed Caol Ila, Laphroaig, and Bunnahabhain whiskies under its name. The origin of the whisky depended on the age statement, indicating one of those distilleries. However, in October 2023, Port Askaig underwent a transformation, introducing new bottles, labels, and focusing on three releases: their flagship, the pre-existing 8-year-old, and two limited editions – a Cask Strength No Age Statement (NAS) and the Port Askaig 17-Year-Old. Today, we are reviewing the latter expression.
Port Askaig 17-Year-Old Elixir Distillers (2023) Review
Bottled in October 2023, the inaugural batch of the newly introduced annual Port Askaig 17-year-old is an Islay single malt hailing from an undisclosed distillery, having undergone maturation in American oak casks. This limited edition consists of 9,000 bottles, each bottled at 50.5% alcohol by volume, and as customary with Port Askaig, without added colouring or chill filtration. It remains available and accessible, priced at €120 in Germany and £120 in the UK, for instance.
Colour:
Pale straw.
Nose:
Neat: A coastal breeze carries the scent of seashells, gentle wisps of smoke, and briny green olives. Sun-dried driftwood lingers in the background, mingling with a touch of creamy vanilla sweetness. The maritime influence deepens with salty air, wet pebbles, and fresh oyster liquor. The nose also has subtle waxy and floral undertones.
With water: The aroma becomes a bit sharper, accentuating the salinity and introducing zesty grapefruit. The smoke turns drier, lending a crisp, coastal character to the profile.
Palate:
Neat: Bright and pristine, with a balance of smoked lemons, gentle barley sweetness, and a touch of salt. A sprinkle of grey pepper, subtle oak and mineral notes – reminiscent of crushed oyster shells, whilst hints of caramel emerge alongside soft, lingering smoke. Very drinkable, with the ABV feeling just right.
With water: The peat becomes more pronounced, accompanied by an intensified peppery spice. The smoked lemons shine even brighter, and the texture takes on a delightful syrupy richness.
Finish:
Warm and enduring, with delicate waves of smoke, zesty lemons, and creamy vanilla. Hints of sandstone and a whisper of sea spray leave a crisp, coastal impression that lingers beautifully.
Comments:
This Port Askaig 17-year-old is an excellent whisky – pure, precise, and laser-focused. While not overly complex, it delivers everything it promises with remarkable clarity. A 17-year-old Islay peated whisky might not be everyone’s idea of a daily dram, but for peat lovers, this is a fantastic go-to option. Elixir Distillers continue to impress with the Port Askaig range. I’m not sure if a 2024 or newer edition has been released yet, but fortunately, the 2023 bottling is still available.
Rating: 7/10
Thanks Arnaud!
