Port Charlotte 2013 PMC: 01 54.5% 2013

Professional reviews

BOW (88)

Port Charlotte 2013 PMC:01 - A Symphony of Cask Exploration

The world of whisky is full of delightful surprises and unique expressions, and the Port Charlotte 2013 PMC:01 is a shining example of this. Distilled at the famed Bruichladdich distillery in 2013 and bottled on June 19, 2023, as part of their Cask Exploration Series, this nine-year-old whisky is a testament to the artistry and innovation of Bruichladdich's distillers. What sets this expression apart is its journey of maturation, which involved four years in First Fill Bourbon casks, followed by an additional five years in Pomerol casks. In this article, we'll explore the captivating story and flavors behind the Port Charlotte 2013 PMC:01.

Cask Exploration Series

Bruichladdich's Cask Exploration Series is a celebration of the distillery's relentless pursuit of flavor and innovation. It's a playground for the distillers to experiment with cask types, maturation times, and flavor profiles. Each release in this series is a unique exploration of the possibilities within the world of whisky, and the Port Charlotte 2013 PMC:01 is a shining example of this ethos.

Distillation and Age

Port Charlotte is known for its bold and heavily peated character, and the 2013 PMC:01 is no exception. Distilled in 2013, it spent a total of nine years maturing to reach its full potential. This extended maturation allowed the whisky to develop layers of complexity and character that make it a standout in the Port Charlotte range.

Maturation

What makes the Port Charlotte 2013 PMC:01 truly special is its dual maturation process. The whisky spent the first four years of its life in First Fill Bourbon casks, which imparted the classic vanilla and oak notes typically associated with American oak barrels. This initial maturation period allowed the spirit to mellow and develop a solid foundation of flavors.

Following its time in bourbon casks, the Port Charlotte 2013 PMC:01 was transferred to Pomerol casks for an additional five years. Pomerol is a renowned wine region in Bordeaux, France, celebrated for its Merlot-dominated red wines. The influence of these wine casks introduces a unique set of flavors, including rich red fruits, dark chocolate, and a velvety texture.

Tasting Notes

Pouring a glass of Port Charlotte 2013 PMC:01 reveals a mesmerizing nose of peat smoke, honeyed malt, and hints of citrus. On the palate, the whisky bursts to life with a symphony of flavors. The peat smoke is intertwined with notes of red berries, plum, and dark chocolate, creating a harmonious balance of smokiness and sweetness.

The finish is long and evolving, with the influence of the Pomerol casks becoming more pronounced. It leaves a delightful warmth, along with a lingering taste of red wine tannins and oak.

Conclusion

The Port Charlotte 2013 PMC:01 is a testament to the art of cask exploration and maturation. It is a whisky that marries the bold, peaty character of Port Charlotte with the elegance and complexity of Pomerol wine casks. Released as part of the Cask Exploration Series, it stands as a testament to Bruichladdich's dedication to pushing the boundaries of flavor and innovation.

If you're a whisky enthusiast looking for a unique and memorable tasting experience, the Port Charlotte 2013 PMC:01 should be on your radar. It offers a journey through a diverse range of flavors, showcasing the magic that can happen when whisky meets wine casks. This release is a testament to the endless possibilities within the world of whisky, and it's a journey worth embarking upon.