Talisker X Parley Wilder Seas

Nose: Mild and dry in feel, yet rich overall. Tight-packed top notes of fruit and malt suggest malt bread with sultanas, dates and dried figs. Beneath them, a light mineral hint of chalk leads into rousing maritime notes of brine, salt crystals and ship’s rails in a high sea, all on a lightly fruity, winey base, with a hint of pipe tobacco. Adding a little water brings up a smoky note.

Palate: The creamy-smooth mouthfeel introduces a big taste that starts richly sweet then quickly becomes salty, smoky and fruity, with lush, sweet hints of sultana and fig mid-palate wrapped in rising peppery spice and smokiness. Rich and intense at natural strength, it becomes slightly sweeter, fruitier (suggesting ripe figs again) and spicier if water is added.

Finish: Long, warming and lightly drying, with a familiar late peppery catch and a most appealing smoky-fruity aftertaste.