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9.4

Port Ellen Prima & Ultima 40 year old 1979 (Cask No. 6422), 51.2%

Name: Port Ellen Prima & Ultima 40 year old 1979 (Cask No. 6422), 51.2%
Brand: Port Ellen Prima & Ultima 40 year old 1979 (Cask No. 6422), 51.2%

Scotland Single Malt Scotch Score: 9.4/10

Port Ellen Prima & Ultima 40 year old 1979 (Cask No. 6422), 51.2% is a highly acclaimed Single Malt Scotch whiskey crafted in Scotland. With an impressive rating of 9.4/10, it features distinctive notes of Apple, Caramel, Cinnamon. Perfect for whiskey enthusiasts seeking single malt scotch expressions from Scotland.

About This Whiskey

The Port Ellen Prima & Ultima 40-Year-Old 1979 (Cask No. 6422) is a highly collectible and exceptional whisky, part of the prestigious "Prima & Ultima" series released by Diageo. Port Ellen, once a renowned distillery on the Isle of Islay, closed its doors in 1983, making any remaining releases from this distillery highly sought after by collectors and whisky connoisseurs. This 40-year-old expression, bottled at 51.2% ABV, represents the pinnacle of Port Ellen’s legacy, showcasing the distillery's signature peat smoke and maritime influence after four decades of maturation. The whisky offers a rare glimpse into the distillery’s heyday, highlighting its complexity, elegance, and the incredible depth that time and wood maturation can provide.

Tasting Notes

NOSE: The nose of the Port Ellen 40-Year-Old is immediately captivating, with the unmistakable Islay peat smoke rising to the forefront, but it is beautifully restrained and integrated, a hallmark of older whiskies. The smoke is rich, but it does not overpower the other aromas. Beneath the peat, there are layers of ripe tropical fruits—particularly pineapple and passion fruit—bringing a burst of sweetness that is beautifully balanced by the maritime character. The briny sea air and salty tang give a distinct coastal essence, transporting you directly to the shores of Islay. As the whisky opens, there are delicate notes of vanilla, honey, and a touch of caramelized sugar, along with a subtle floral undertone—think of heather and lavender. The oak influence becomes more apparent over time, with aromas of polished wood, a light spiciness, and a hint of dark chocolate. The nose is rich, multifaceted, and ever-evolving, offering something new with each inhale.

TASTE: On the palate, the Port Ellen 40-Year-Old is incredibly refined, showcasing the balance between peat smoke, sweetness, and oak that has developed over its four decades of maturation. The initial impact is smoky, with the familiar peat fire and a gentle sea breeze that characterizes Islay whiskies. However, the peat is more nuanced than expected, with a sweetness that quickly emerges. Notes of honey, vanilla, and toffee interweave with the peat, adding layers of richness to the whisky. Tropical fruit flavors—especially ripe melon, mango, and citrus—add a refreshing quality to the experience. As the whisky evolves on the tongue, the oak influence becomes more noticeable, contributing a gentle spiciness of cinnamon and nutmeg, alongside a light tannic dryness. There is also a slight maltiness that provides a foundation of depth. The mouthfeel is creamy and full-bodied, with a silky texture that is balanced by the smokiness and fruitiness.

FINISH: The finish is long, elegant, and warming, with the peat smoke gently fading but lingering in the background. The sweetness of honey and vanilla carries through, accompanied by a subtle oak dryness that provides a final touch of sophistication. The maritime influence remains, with traces of salt and sea air that linger on the palate. There is also a faint trace of dried fruits and a slight herbal quality, which adds complexity and depth to the finish. The balance of peat, sweetness, and oak ensures that the finish is not only long-lasting but also perfectly harmonious. The whisky leaves a refined aftertaste that beckons another sip. Overall, the Port Ellen Prima & Ultima 40-Year-Old 1979 is an exceptional and rare whisky that embodies the best qualities of Port Ellen. The delicate interplay of peat smoke, maritime influences, tropical fruits, and oak creates a whisky of remarkable depth and sophistication. With its 40 years of maturation, it offers a refined, balanced, and unforgettable experience that any whisky enthusiast would be fortunate to savor. For collectors, this is a rare opportunity to own a piece of whisky history, and for those fortunate enough to taste it, it is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Flavor Profile

Apple Caramel Cinnamon Dark Chocolate Dried Heather Honey Lavender Nutmeg Oak Peat Pine Polished Wood Salt Smoke Toffee Vanilla

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User Reviews

Frequently Asked Questions About Port Ellen Prima & Ultima 40 year old 1979 (Cask No. 6422), 51.2%

What type of whiskey is Port Ellen Prima & Ultima 40 year old 1979 (Cask No. 6422), 51.2%?

Port Ellen Prima & Ultima 40 year old 1979 (Cask No. 6422), 51.2% is a Single Malt Scotch whiskey from Scotland. This type is known for its distinctive characteristics and unique production process.

How should I taste Port Ellen Prima & Ultima 40 year old 1979 (Cask No. 6422), 51.2%?

For the best tasting experience, pour Port Ellen Prima & Ultima 40 year old 1979 (Cask No. 6422), 51.2% into a tulip-shaped glass and let it rest for a few minutes. Start by nosing the whiskey to appreciate its aromatic complexity. Take small sips and let the whiskey coat your palate. You may want to add a few drops of water to open up the flavors. We recommend enjoying it neat to fully appreciate its character.

What foods pair well with Port Ellen Prima & Ultima 40 year old 1979 (Cask No. 6422), 51.2%?

Port Ellen Prima & Ultima 40 year old 1979 (Cask No. 6422), 51.2% pairs excellently with smoked salmon, oysters, and strong cheeses. The smoky character matches beautifully with seafood and robust flavors.

What are the main flavor notes in Port Ellen Prima & Ultima 40 year old 1979 (Cask No. 6422), 51.2%?

The flavor profile of Port Ellen Prima & Ultima 40 year old 1979 (Cask No. 6422), 51.2% features Apple, Caramel, Cinnamon, Dark Chocolate, Dried. These flavors create a complex and layered tasting experience that has been highly praised by critics and enthusiasts alike.

Cocktails with Scotch

Affinity

Balmoral

Dry Rob Roy

Flying Scotchman

Godfather

Highland Fling Cocktail

Irish Cream

Loch Lomond

Penicillin

Rusty Nail

Scotch Sour

Thriller

Whisky Mac