Distilled: 1979 | Bottled: 2006 | Stated age: 26 years old | ABV: 54% | Region: Islay | Country: Scotland | Type: Single malt Scotch whisky

Port Ellen is a renowned Scottish distillery located on the island of Islay, famous for its production of heavily peated whiskies. Founded in 1825 by Alexander Mackay, the distillery was situated in the port town of Port Ellen, which was crucial for the transportation of whisky and other goods. Although it operated for several decades, production stopped in 1929. It briefly reopened in 1967, but closed permanently in 1983 due to overproduction during the whisky downturn of the 1980s. Despite the distillery's closure, the Port Ellen Maltings has remained active, supplying malt to other Islay distilleries like Lagavulin, Laphroaig, Ardbeg, and Bowmore. Port Ellen whisky gained legendary status for its distinct peaty flavor, marine notes, and complex character. In 2017, Diageo announced plans to reopen the distillery, with the goal of preserving its traditional production methods. The new stills were designed to replicate the original process, ensuring the authenticity of the distillate. After years of anticipation, Port Ellen reopened in 2024. Due to its limited availability and rich history, Port Ellen whisky remains one of the most sought-after in the world.

Port Ellen 1979 Single Cask Malt Whisky is a rare single malt whisky bottled by independent bottler Old Bothwell. Distilled in 1979 and aged for 26 years in oak cask #7094, it was bottled at cask strength in 2006, preserving its full, authentic flavor.

Nose: Complex and rich with strong fruit notes, subtle spices, and wood hints.

Taste: Full with notes of vanilla, spice, peat smoke, and sweet wood blending harmoniously.

Finish: Long and lingering with spice, oak, and smoke notes.

Sought after for its pre-1983 distillation, before the distillery closure, this bottle is highly coveted by both whisky enthusiasts and collectors due to its rarity and historical significance.