Professional reviews
Gal Granov (89)
Nose: Ah, quite maritime as one would expect from a Talisker (made by the sea, right?, with sea spray, and a beach BBQ bonfire up front, there’s a nice sweet smoky feeling to it, even some candy floss along the smoky embers. As the smoke subsides, I am getting apple Strudle and Tarte Tatin with baked apples and pears. A touch of freshly ground black peppercorns and more salty spray linger.
Palate: Starting with more of the sweet baked apples from the Apple Strudle we’ve seen on the nose, then thrown into heaps of wood smoke, then getting briny and salty with the addition of baking spices, hints of tar and dirty insides of fishing boats, macerated dried fruit and bitter cocoa/wood char, licorice and espresso, tiny salty touches along the way.
Finish: The wood char and smoke go on for quite a long time, with BBQ’ed apples, sweet and salty toffee, and more wood, ending on a double espresso.
Conclusion: A rather complex and lovely young Talisker. Everything you come to expect of such a dram is included – with a good balance of fruit, spice, maritime and smoky influences. Dirty in the right amount, and well made. Not cheap at 110 quid, but solid stuff!
Words of Whisky (88)
:
First-fill and refill bourbon and wine seasoned
Nose: Bonfire smoke, salty sea spray and apple crumble with vanilla pods, but also dried seaweed, whispers of agave and jalapeño brine. Some ashes and cow dung too, but let’s not forget fruits such as pickled lemons and papaya.
Taste: Oily mouthfeel but overall quite ashy, salty and somewhat spicy with white pepper taking the lead. A tad more powerful than the nose suggests. More pickled lemons, a touch of coffee powder and sal ammoniac. Water brings out more citrus notes.
Finish: A sweeter touch of marshmallows accompanied by grilled pineapple and lingering maritime peat. Long.
CONCLUSION
Seriously good whisky. And the wine-seasoned casks very much stay in the background. I wouldn’t have known if they hadn’t told us. Big thumbs up for the Talisker 11 Years.
BOW (88)
Discover the Delights of Diageo Special Releases 2022: 11 Years Old Refill Ex-Bourbon Cask Matured
The Diageo Special Releases 2022 lineup presents an exceptional expression for whisky enthusiasts to savor: the 11 Years Old matured on refill Ex-Bourbon casks. Bottled at 55.1% ABV, this whisky showcases the artistry of maturation in carefully selected casks. With its intriguing age statement and the influence of refill Ex-Bourbon casks, this release promises a remarkable flavor profile that will captivate discerning palates.
Aromas:
Upon nosing the 11 Years Old Diageo Special Releases 2022, a medley of enticing aromas wafts from the glass. The familiar warmth of vanilla and caramel greets the senses, derived from its maturation in refill Ex-Bourbon casks. Soft notes of tropical fruits, such as ripe bananas and juicy pineapples, dance in the background, adding a delightful sweetness. Subtle hints of oak and gentle spices complete the aromatic symphony, inviting you to delve deeper into the whisky's complexity.
Palate:
As the whisky graces the palate, a harmonious interplay of flavors unfolds. The velvety texture introduces flavors of creamy toffee and honey, creating a luscious and indulgent experience. The influence of the refill Ex-Bourbon casks becomes evident, with delicate layers of vanilla and butterscotch enhancing the overall sweetness. Tropical fruits make their presence known once again, offering a vibrant burst of freshness. Soft spices, such as cinnamon and nutmeg, add depth and complexity, creating a well-rounded and satisfying taste sensation.
Finish:
The finish of the 11 Years Old Diageo Special Releases 2022 is long and lingering, leaving a lasting impression on the palate. The gentle spices continue to unfold, intertwining with the lingering sweetness of toffee and honey. The refill Ex-Bourbon cask influence becomes more pronounced, with subtle oak notes and a hint of toasted coconut, adding an extra layer of complexity to the whisky's finale.
Overall Impression:
The 11 Years Old Diageo Special Releases 2022, matured on refill Ex-Bourbon casks, is a testament to the art of maturation and cask selection. The gentle influence of the casks imbues the whisky with a delightful array of flavors, from creamy toffee and honey to tropical fruits and soft spices. The balance achieved between sweetness, fruitiness, and gentle oak notes creates a whisky that is both approachable and sophisticated. Whether you're a seasoned whisky connoisseur or a curious newcomer, this release offers a captivating journey of flavors.
Conclusion:
The 11 Years Old Diageo Special Releases 2022, matured on refill Ex-Bourbon casks, is a standout addition to this year's collection. Its careful maturation process and expertly selected casks result in a whisky that strikes a harmonious balance of flavors. The interplay of creamy toffee, tropical fruits, and soft spices creates a memorable tasting experience. Whether enjoyed neat or with a splash of water, this expression is sure to delight whisky enthusiasts seeking a refined and flavorful dram.
