Talisker 10 Years Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Distillery Background and History

Founded in 1830 by Hugh MacAskill in Carbost on the Isle of Skye, Talisker is the oldest distillery on Skye and one of Scotland’s most iconic island whiskies. Under Diageo’s ownership and marketed within the “Classic Malts” portfolio, Talisker has long been celebrated for its maritime character, peat-smoke, and peppery finish. Its coastal warehouses and famed swan-neck stills help define its distinctive spirit. 

Master Distiller and Production Philosophy

Talisker’s production falls under Diageo’s Classic Malts team. The philosophy emphasizes traditional craftsmanship: long fermentations in wooden washbacks, steam-heated copper pot stills with swan-neck lyne pipes, and a focus on balancing rich peat, sea salt, and natural sweetness. Chill filtration and coloring are used to maintain consistency.

Source of Ingredients (Grain, Water, Yeast)

Crafted from 100% malted barley (sourced from Muir of Ord or Port Ellen Maltings) and peated at ~16–22 ppm. Water is sourced from the Cnoc nan Speireag spring, enhanced by the peat-rich landscape. Fermentation employs proprietary yeast strains in wooden washbacks. 

Distillation Process

Talisker uses a classic double-distillation in two wash stills (~10 000 L) and three spirit stills (~7 500 L). The signature swan-neck lyne pipes and worm-tub condensers concentrate phenolic compounds, contributing to a bold, oily spirit with rich maritime and smoky nuances. 

Maturation & Cask Information

The 10-year expression is matured exclusively in American oak casks. The Isle of Skye’s cool, humid climate facilitates slow maturation, enhancing oak-derived vanilla and honey while retaining coastal salinity. Bottled at 45.8% ABV with chill filtration and added caramel coloring. 

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Powerful peat-smoke, sea-salt brine, citrus sweetness, and subtle iodine. 

• Palate: Full-bodied with dried fruit, smoke, barley malt, black pepper, and warming spice. 

• Finish: Long, smoky, peppery, with lingering sweetness and salinity. 

Food Pairing Suggestions

Pairs well with smoked fish (salmon, mackerel), grilled shellfish, blue cheese, charcuterie, dark chocolate, and citrus-based desserts—complementing its saline peat and peppery spice.

Serving Suggestions and Ideal Glassware

Best served neat or a few drops of still water in a Glencairn or tulip glass at 15–18 °C to release aromas and soften peat smokiness. Avoid over-chilling to maintain flavor integrity. 

Storage and Aging Potential

As a fully mature, bottled whisky, Talisker 10 will not further mature. Store upright in a cool, dark place (12–16 °C). Once opened, consume within 1–2 years for optimal freshness.

Grain Type & Mash Bill (if applicable)

Single malt — 100% malted barley.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

45.8% ABV 

Scores

• Distiller: 96/100 — praised for its smoky depth, honeyed sweetness, and sea salt essence

• Distiller community average: ~92/100 — regarded as a balanced peaty malt with complexity

• Whisky Connosr (Reddit): 90/100 — notes of salt, honey, pepper, and peat; “favorite dram