Port Ellen 29 Years Old Douglas Laing Old & Rare The Platinum Selection 53.8% 1979

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Port Ellen 29 Years Old Douglas Laing Old & Rare:

A Port Ellen, a name synonymous with the rich maritime heritage of Islay, has left an indelible mark on the world of Scotch whisky. The Port Ellen 29 Years Old, meticulously crafted by Douglas Laing for the Old & Rare The Platinum Selection series, beckons enthusiasts to embark on a sensory journey through time and taste. Distilled in December 1979 and bottled in February 2009 at a robust 53.8% ABV, this expression embodies the essence of Port Ellen's legacy with a character that resonates through its nose, palate, and finish.

Nose:
The aroma of Port Ellen 29 Years Old captivates the senses with a rich tapestry of scents that unveil themselves gradually. Initial impressions reveal a dulcet and leathery character, setting the stage for a symphony of sweet and salty notes. Lemon and Chinese grass intermingle, creating a delicate dance of citrusy sensations. The nose behaves with a nuanced presence of cardboard, sweet lemon liqueur, and subtle herbal undertones. As the whisky breathes, a faint "Farmy stinker" emerges, reminiscent of wet animal fur. The complexity of the nose invites enthusiasts to delve deeper into the maritime allure of Port Ellen.

Taste:
The palate of Port Ellen 29 Years Old is a revelation of sweet, salty, creamy, and irresistibly spicy notes. Limes, lemons, grapefruit, and avocado provide a vibrant citrus medley, harmonizing with honey, vanilla, licorice, and peat. The interplay of flavors extends to include cocoa, tobacco, creamy peaty yogurt, and leather, creating an ensemble that is both carefully crafted and extremely delicious. The careful balance and intensity make this expression a standout among Islay whiskies.

Finish:
The finish of Port Ellen 29 Years Old is a testament to its longevity and complexity. The dull spiciness persists, accompanied by layers of tart chocolate and voluminous smoky peat. "Dark" aromas unfold, revealing licorice, coffee beans, caramel, honey, wet ash, cardboard, and leather. The finish is long to very long, leaving a lasting impression of the intricate flavors that have unfolded on the palate.

Conclusion:
Port Ellen 29 Years Old Douglas Laing Old & Rare stands as a pinnacle of Islay's maritime legacy, capturing the essence of a distillery that has become legendary in the world of Scotch whisky. The careful curation by Douglas Laing for The Platinum Selection series showcases the depth and complexity that a nearly three-decade maturation imparts to this expression. Enthusiasts who embark on this journey are rewarded with a symphony of flavors that pay homage to the maritime terroir of Port Ellen. This release, with its limited number of 261 bottles, represents a rare opportunity to experience the legacy and craftsmanship of Port Ellen in a truly exceptional and unforgettable dram.