Port Charlotte OLC:01 Scotch Review

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Distilled and bottled by Bruichladdich

Region: Islay

Type: Single Malt

ABV: 55.1%

Age: 9yrs

Color: light copper

This cask exploration series release from Bruichladdich was initially aged in a combination of ex-bourbon, Syrah and Vin Doux naturel casks before finishing in Frenando de Castilla Oloroso sherry hogsheads. Bottled in February 2020, this limited release is cask strength with no added coloring and no chill filtration.

Tasting Notes

Nose: The nose begins with fatty notes of butter and toasted nuts along with raisin and cooked red fruit. The peat influence is minimal on the nose with only a hint of smoke.

Palate: Medium weight accompanied by sour plum and syrupy sweetness behind which are some spice notes of pepper and salt.

Finish: Medium in length. The peat makes itself known on the finish with notes of ashtray and smoldering cigar smoke. Some damp tobacco and a continuation of sherry influence in the form of more raisin and plum juice.

Score: 7/10

Conclusion: This is good whisky, but I don’t know that it stands out enough to justify its price against the standard 10yr Port Charlotte which is much cheaper.

Even the Islay Barley release is cheaper and can do many of the things that OLC:01 does. The flavors are good and work well together but despite being cask strength, the palate and finish lack the oomph I’d expect from a full proof, special release.

This is still a good whisky, but not one I’ll be looking to buy again.

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