About this whisky

Talisker was founded in 1830 by the brothers Hugh and Kenneth MacAskill on the shores of Loch Harport, at Carbost on the Isle of Skye, and it is the island's oldest working distillery. Its stills are unusual: the lyne arms carry a U-bend that sends some of the vapour back for another distillation, and the spirit is cooled in traditional worm tubs. Peated malt and the salty Atlantic air do the rest, giving Talisker its famous peppery, maritime character.

At 45.8%, the 10 Year Old is bold and complex: fresh sea air, peat smoke and black pepper with citrus and malt on the nose, then waves of smoke, sweet malt and warm spice touched with honey and brine. The finish is long, smoky and peppery. A classic for anyone who enjoys big, characterful Scotch, and an excellent Highball whisky, with a crack of black pepper over the top.

Key facts

• Founded in 1830 by Hugh and Kenneth MacAskill at Carbost; the oldest working distillery on Skye
• Lyne arms with a U-bend send some vapour back for redistillation
• Spirit is cooled in traditional worm tubs
• Bottled at 45.8% ABV

Tasting notes

Nose:

fresh sea air, peat smoke and black pepper, with citrus, malt and sea salt

Palate:

smoke, sweet malt and warm spice, with honey and brine

Finish:

long, warming and smoky, with lingering pepper

Serve

Neat or with a few drops of water, or as a Highball: 45 ml over ice, topped with chilled soda and a crack of black pepper.

Food pairing

Try it with Tangra chilli fish or tandoori pomfret, or with fresh oysters.