Professional reviews
Serge Valentin (92)
Colour: pale gold.
Nose: it seems that this one is a rather complex version, which does not start only on big whiffs of burning tyres and lemons but also on soaked grains, porridge and wet ropes. The peat smoke is big as expected but it’s melted into the rest. Mullein flowers, crystallised lemons, lemon honey, vanilla crème, raw wool, clams, spearmint. It gets then a little more austere but never ‘brutal’. A civilised Port Ellen?
Palate: well, yes, in a certain way. Quite interestingly, this one reminds me more of an old Ardbeg than of a Port Ellen on the palate. Very nervous and very ‘wide’, with notes of tangerines, Chinese anise, bubblegum (hints), smoked tea, gentian spirit (hello Vienna?), crab, green Chartreuse and even Jägermeister, liquorice roots... Gets almost restless now, concentrated, big, bitterer and bitterer (more herbs liqueurs)... What a presence!
Finish: long, more on marzipan now, green walnuts, liquorice, kippers, sea water (remember?)
Well well well, we had thought this one would be a very nice and gentle whisky when nosing it first but at the finish it got quite a monster. A vampire? Great whisky anyway – nothing really new under the sun.
Words of Whisky (91)
BOW (92)
Port Ellen Distillery, a name that resonates with whisky enthusiasts worldwide, is renowned for producing some of the most coveted and collectible single malts. The Port Ellen 7th Annual Release, a venerable 28-year-old expression, stands as a beacon of excellence within the Diageo Special Releases 2007 series. Distilled in 1979 and bottled on the 25th of May 2007, this limited edition elixir is a testament to the rich heritage and craftsmanship that defines Port Ellen.
Aged to Perfection:
The journey of the Port Ellen 7th Annual Release began over two decades before its bottling date. Distilled in 1979, this expression spent 28 years maturing in oak casks, a testament to the patience and dedication of the master distillers at Port Ellen. The extended aging process allowed the spirit to absorb the essence of its surroundings, resulting in a whisky of exceptional depth and complexity.
Diageo Special Releases 2007:
Part of the prestigious Diageo Special Releases 2007 series, the Port Ellen 7th Annual Release was a highly anticipated offering for collectors and connoisseurs alike. With only 5,274 bottles produced, each one became a rare and sought-after gem, embodying the spirit of exclusivity that defines the Port Ellen legacy.
Tasting Notes:
The Port Ellen 7th Annual Release 28 Years Old, bottled at a robust 53.8%, offers a sensory journey that unfolds with every sip:
1. Rich and Smoky:
The hallmark peat smoke of Port Ellen is immediately evident, enveloping the palate in a rich, smoky embrace. The intensity of the peat is harmoniously balanced, allowing for a nuanced exploration of the whisky's core character.
2. Sublime Complexity:
With 28 years of maturation, this expression unveils layers of complexity that captivate the senses. Notes of brine, seaweed, and maritime influences intermingle with a gentle sweetness, creating a symphony of flavors that evolve on the palate.
3. Velvety Finish:
The whisky concludes its journey with a velvety finish, leaving a lingering warmth that invites reflection on the craftsmanship and legacy encapsulated in each bottle.
Conclusion:
The Port Ellen 7th Annual Release 28 Years Old, with its limited production of 5,274 bottles, is not merely a whisky; it is a piece of liquid history. As enthusiasts and collectors savor this rare elixir, they connect with a bygone era of Scottish whisky craftsmanship. The legacy of Port Ellen endures in each carefully crafted bottle, inviting those fortunate enough to experience it to appreciate the artistry and time-honored traditions that make Port Ellen a legendary name in the world of Scotch whisky.
