Port Ellen 11th Release 32yo is a remarkable single malt whisky from the legendary closed distillery, Port Ellen. Bottled at 32 years old, this release stands as one of the finest examples of what the distillery’s aging stock can offer. Known for its complex peated character and maritime influence, Port Ellen’s long closure has made its whiskies even more desirable and valuable among collectors. The 11th release highlights the distillery’s hallmark style: an intensely smoky whisky with rich, balanced notes of fruit, oak, and sea air. The extended maturation has allowed the whisky to develop a profound complexity, integrating the distillery’s signature peat with smooth, aged oak influences. With only a limited number of bottles available, this whisky is an exceptional opportunity to savor a piece of Port Ellen’s storied past.
NOSE: The nose of Port Ellen 11th Release 32yo is captivating and multifaceted. The peat smoke is immediately noticeable, but it is subtle and refined, offering earthy, ashy notes with hints of iodine, medicinal qualities, and a touch of tar. The maritime influence is profound, with briny sea spray, salt, and a trace of seaweed adding a refreshing, coastal character. Beneath the smoke and salt, rich aromas of dried fruits—raisins, figs, and prunes—emerge, alongside a slight sweetness from the oak, with notes of vanilla and caramel. As the whisky opens up, it reveals further complexity with hints of tobacco, leather, and soft spice, providing depth and sophistication.
TASTE: On the palate, Port Ellen 11th Release 32yo is rich, full-bodied, and exceptionally smooth. The peat smoke is present, but it is beautifully integrated, offering a warming, smoky depth without overpowering the other flavors. The dried fruit notes—dark cherries, blackberries, and figs—balance the smokiness, providing a luscious sweetness that complements the whisky’s profile. The oak influence is evident, adding layers of vanilla, toffee, and subtle spices. The maritime character also comes through, with a slight saltiness that enhances the overall flavor, giving the whisky a refreshing and clean aspect. The complexity is extraordinary, with layers of peat, fruit, oak, and spice all melding together in perfect harmony.
FINISH: The finish of Port Ellen 11th Release 32yo is long and satisfying, with the peat smoke gradually fading into a gentle warmth. The maritime qualities linger on, with a briny, slightly salty aftertaste that enhances the whisky’s coastal nature. The oak spice, vanilla, and caramel notes persist, leaving behind a smooth, velvety texture. The dried fruit flavors gently fade, and the whisky finishes with a delicate balance of sweetness and smoke, leaving a lasting impression of elegance and refinement. The finish is not just long, but also complex, with the different elements of the whisky unfolding slowly, creating a memorable conclusion to the dram.
Ash
Caramel
Dried
Iodine
Leather
Oak
Peat
Prune
Salt
Seaweed
Smoke
Tobacco
Toffee
Vanilla