Talisker 1996 Distillers Edition

[Megawatt]

If I may share my thoughts on this fine malt.

Distilled in 1996, bottled in 2008. 45.8% alc/vol like the other standard bottlings. Finished in Amaroso sherry casks.

A peaty, somewhat tarry aroma is immediately evident. Hints at big sweetness but smokiness prevails. Light floral aromas in the background.

Luscious on the palate, tingling with spice before a massive perfumed sweetness envelops the tongue. A late surge of peat smoke follows, then becomes sweet again. The finish is mellow with lingering peat and a hint of...ginger?

A beautiful expression of the Talisker character. Not as heavy or luxurious as the 18 year old but definitely richer than the 10. I wish I could compare them side by side. I highly recommend this whisky to just about anyone. It would make a good introduction to the smoky island style.

[Ganga]

MW,

Could you come back with some notes after the bottle has been open for awhile? It would be interesting to see what if anything disappates with time.

[Megawatt]

Certainly. I will say that after sitting in the glass for a bit the sweet sherry character becomes more evident. I have heard some people complain about the sherry not meshing well with the distillery character but to me this represents perfect balance between the two.

[jimidrammer]

I've been through several bottles of the '92 Talisker DE, stocked up on a closeout. Wondering if anyone has noticed any variation in the different vintages. I actually have not seen any current DE versions around yet.

[Ganga]

I have not had more than the 1992 DE for Talisker. However, I have tried more than one Lagavulin DE and more than one Oban DE. The quality was variable in these instances.

[Megawatt]

I dunno, I wouldn't rate it that far behind the 18, comparing from memory. They are both big well-balanced drams.