Port Charlotte 18 Year Old (Heavily Peated Islay Single Malt)

Taste Notes

At 18 years, the aggressive smoke of youth has transformed into something much more refined and "glowy."

• Nose: Immediate aromas of dried figs, sultanas, and golden syrup mingle with a mellow, sweet peat smoke. As it breathes, you'll find notes of charred oak and earthy heather.
• Palate: Luxuriously smooth. It opens with dark brown sugar, apricot jam, and heather honey, followed by Port Charlotte’s signature savory barbecue smoke. There are deep layers of crème brûlée and toasted hazelnuts.
• Finish: Long and elegant. A "whisper" of smoke remains, alongside smoked leather and a nutty salinity (that "sea breeze" finish).

Food Pairings

This whisky has a unique "sweet and savory" balance that makes it highly versatile for food.

• Savory: Slow-Roasted Pork Belly with an Apple Glaze. The fat in the pork tames the 51.5% ABV, while the apple glaze mirrors the apricot jam notes in the whisky.
• Seafood: Grilled Scallops with Pancetta. The briny scallop highlights the whisky’s Islay saltiness, while the crispy pancetta matches the barbecue smoke.
• Cheese: Aged Gruyère or Comté. The nuttiness of these cheeses pulls out the toasted hazelnut and French oak influence from the maturation.
• Sweet: Sticky Toffee Pudding. The dates and caramel in the pudding are a direct match for the "dark brown sugar and fig" profile of the dram.