Talisker 14 Years ‘Molten Seas’ (53.9%, OB, Diageo Special Releases 2025)

Finished in American oak casks toasted by the heat of volcanic rocks from Skye

Nose: Hints of nori sheets, sea spray and notes of ozone to start. Then a vanilla-esque kind of bonfire smoke, if that makes sense. I forgive you if it doesn’t. A sliver of grilled peaches, some gentle notes of green grapes and then finally charred oak too.
Taste: Creamy texture. A combination of white pepper – or maybe Szechuan – with herbal peat, wood smoke and a vanilla-led sweetness. Proper bit of oak char as well, followed by grilled lemons and seaweed.
Finish: Medium length. Cracked peppercorns, gentle peat, hints of fennel and sweet vanilla notes.