Talisker 25 Years Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Distillery Background and History

Founded in 1830 in Carbost on Scotland’s Isle of Skye, Talisker is one of the island’s oldest distilleries. Nestled by the sea, it has built its reputation on maritime-marbled single malts since 1831. A Diageo-owned icon, Talisker is celebrated as part of the “Classic Malts” lineup, revered for bold peat, peppery spice, and enduring complexity  .

Master Distiller and Production Philosophy

Though the distillery is run by Diageo’s Classic Malts team, the philosophy remains steeped in heritage. Talisker uses traditional practices—long fermentation, copper pot stills with swan-neck lyne pipes, and careful distillation—ensuring each bottle captures the spirit’s wild, island character expressed with elegance .

Source of Ingredients (Grain, Water, Yeast)

Made from 100% malted barley (sourced from Muir of Ord or Port Ellen Maltings), peated to ~18–22 ppm. Pure spring water is drawn from Cnoc nan Speireag on Hawk Hill above the distillery. Fermentation uses proprietary yeast strains in large wooden washbacks  .

Distillation Process

Double-distilled in traditional copper pot stills (two wash stills ~10,000 L and three spirit stills ~7,500 L). Unique swan-neck lyne pipes curl back to the still, allowing heavier compounds to re-distill—yielding a rich, full-bodied spirit with peat, brine, and oily texture  .

Maturation & Cask Information

Matured for 25 years (bottled as 25yo) primarily in American oak hogsheads with some European refill casks. The maritime climate tempers maturation, deepening peat with orange, exotic fruit, and spice, while preserving coastal freshness  .

Tasting Notes

Nose: Mature smoke, salty sea breeze, old orange peel, honeyed wood, and chalky ash.

Palate: Medium-bodied with clay pipe smoke layered with toffee, plum, nectarines, chilli-chocolate, cedar, dried fruit, and green apple.

Finish: Long, refined, smoky, saline, and peppery, echoing citrus zest and gentle chili warmth  .

Food Pairing Suggestions

Excels with rich seafood (smoked salmon, oysters), grilled meat, dark chocolate, charcuterie, and spicy dishes. Piquant desserts like orange tart also complement its peppery and citrus character.

Serving Suggestions and Ideal Glassware

Serve neat or with a few drops of still water in a tulip or Glencairn glass at 15–18 °C (59–64 °F). This temperature range highlights nuanced smoke, fruit, and maritime tones.

Storage and Aging Potential

Bottled at 45.8% ABV with chill filtration and coloring. As a matured expression, it won’t evolve further. Store upright in a cool, dark space (12–16 °C); remains stable and enjoyable for decades.

Grain Type & Mash Bill (if applicable)

Single malt — 100% malted barley.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

45.8% ABV  .