Port Ellen 25 Years Old McGibbon's Provenance Casks DMG 4465 46% 1982

Professional reviews

BOW (88)

In the vast landscape of Scotch whisky, few names resonate with the same level of reverence as Port Ellen. Distilled in the winter of 1982 and matured for a quarter of a century in two Sherry Butts, casks DMG 4452 and 4453, the Port Ellen 25 Years Old from McGibbon's Provenance Series is a rare and exquisite expression. Bottled in the summer of 2008 by the renowned independent bottler Douglas McGibbon, this whisky offers a journey through time and flavors that is nothing short of extraordinary.

The Essence of Elevation:

Port Ellen, with its storied history and iconic distillery, is celebrated for producing some of the most sought-after whiskies in the world. The 25 Years Old expression, carefully selected by Douglas McGibbon for the Provenance Series, embodies the essence of elegance and refinement that defines the Port Ellen legacy.

Maturation Magic:

Matured in two Sherry Butts for a quarter-century, this whisky has absorbed the rich nuances of the wood, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on the palate. Casks DMG 4452 and 4453 have worked their alchemical charm, infusing the spirit with layers of complexity and character that only time and careful maturation can bestow.

Sensory Symphony:

As the cork is lifted and the amber nectar is poured, the Port Ellen 25 Years Old unveils itself in a sensory symphony. On the nose, the freshness of lemon zest and ozone intertwines with the unique notes of burnt candle wax and creosote, setting the stage for a captivating experience. The palate evolves into a delightful sweetness, transforming into the velvety embrace of soft leather, enriched by the presence of rich smoke and the exotic allure of Indian spices.

A Finale to Remember:

The journey concludes with a finish that lingers in memory—an encore that brings back the wax character, accompanied by the peat smoke reminiscent of cordite. Anticipate a late sweet and damp ash "kick," leaving an indelible impression that lingers on the senses.

Douglas McGibbon's Distinctive Touch:

Bottled by Douglas McGibbon for the McGibbon's Provenance Series, this Port Ellen expression is a testament to the independent bottler's expertise and commitment to quality. Each bottle tells a story, and in this case, it is a narrative of time, craftsmanship, and the enduring allure of Port Ellen.

Conclusion:

The Port Ellen 25 Years Old from McGibbon's Provenance Series is not merely a whisky; it is a celebration of a bygone era, a tribute to the artistry of maturation, and a testament to the impeccable curation of Douglas McGibbon. For those fortunate enough to savor its depths, this expression offers a rare glimpse into the legacy of Port Ellen—a legacy that continues to captivate and inspire whisky enthusiasts around the world.

Official tasting note ()

On the nose the whisky opens with a fresh aroma of lemon zest and ozone, running to burnt candle wax and creosote. On the palate the sweetness develops into soft leather, rich smoke and Indian spices. On the finish, the wax character returns and the peat smoke is reminiscent of cordite. Anticipate a late sweet/damp ash"kick"