The heavily peated 40ppm Port Charlotte started as PC5 with a yearly follow-up. This year’s release has reached 10 years of age. There’s a limited yearly release at cask strength (59,8% named ‘Tro Na Linntean’) but afterwards it will be available as part of the core range as well, cut down to 46% (pictured below).
Port Charlotte 2001 ‘PC10’
(59,8%, OB 2012, 6000 btl.)
Port Charlotte 2001 ‘PC10’Nose: medium peat, with a very elegant combination of soot, linseed oil and nuts. Sugared almonds and walnuts. One of the first times that I notice clear oak in a Port Charlotte of this strength. Deeper inside there’s a malty sweetness with warm, ripe fruits and caramelizing sugar. Hints of mint too. The nicest PC nose so far.
Mouth: oily start, takes a few seconds and then bursts on peat, roasted malt and vanilla biscuits. Some tar, ashes and pepper. Sweet fruits in the background. Good balance of earthy notes, sweetness and coastal notes.
Finish: warm, long, half earthy, half honeyed, with embers of peat and a salt / lemon combo.
A very good peated dram. One to keep aside for when the winter returns. If you take the heavy price into account (around € 95), then Laphroaig 10yo Cask Strength is a better buy.
Score: 88/100