Since 2012, Talisker 30 Year Old is bottled at the classic 45,8% ABV instead of cask strength. It also comes in a jazzier, shiny red box instead of the old blue cardboard.
Talisker 30 yo
(45,8%, OB 2015, 3912 btl.)
Talisker 30 yoNose: very mild and elegant, with little smoke but a more forthcoming sweet, fruity note. Oranges, apple peelings and red berries. Also oily / waxy notes. Subtle coastal elements in the background, as well as a bit of pepper. Just a hint of charred oak. Very nice, but slightly understated, not to say underwhelming.
Mouth: not very punchy on the palate either, but a nicely waxy, creamy texture – almonds, I’d say. Still a bit sweet (berries again), but more smoky notes now, as well as a salty edge. Warming pepper. In the end also tiny medicinal notes.
Finish: long, gentle, with fruity echoes and soft smoke.
I believe earlier batches were more complex and definitely more punchy. On the other hand it’s still a rich, refined dram and the price increase has been within limits (thanks to the lower strength perhaps). Around € 300.
Score: 90/100