Port Askaig creates new range

Islay-made Port Askaig has revealed its brand refresh with a trio of new of whiskies, presented under the tagline ‘the gateway to Islay’.

The range includes three expressions: Port Askaig 8 Years Old, which is the flagship release, and two limited expressions in the Port Askaig Cask Strength and the Port Askaig 17 Years Old. The expressions are each presented in a new bottle design.

The range aims to highlight owner Elixir Distillers’ ambition to grow the premium brand in the UK and internationally.

Oliver Chilton, head blender at Elixir Distillers, commented: ”With each expression, we invite you to immerse yourself in the island’s unique character – from the rugged landscapes to the salty sea air and iconic peat smoke that Islay is renowned for.

”The refreshed Port Askaig 8 Years Old is a steadfast companion on this journey, a true gateway to Islay whisky; and with Port Askaig Cask Strength and Port Askaig 17 Years Old, we unveil chapters of Islay’s story that continue to unfold with every sip’.

”Each expression is a testament to our dedication to authenticity and quality, and we are immensely proud to present this relaunch,” he added.

The 8 Years Old (45.8% ABV), matured for more than five years, is made from a new recipe and is described as ‘herbaceous’ with notes of seaweed salt, pinewood, and a blanket of warming smoke.

The Cask Strength (59.4% ABV), meanwhile, is limited to no more than 60 casks per batch and is aged in first-fill toasted Bourbon barrels and refill American oak hogsheads. It possesses notes of vanilla, citrus and peat smoke with an ‘ever-evolving experience’ promised from each batch.

In addition, the third whisky on the line up, the 17 Years Old (51.8% ABV), will see only 9,000 bottles produced each year, and will also be a limited edition, annual release.

It has been aged for a minimum of 17 years in traditional American Oak casks. And of its tasting notes, ‘wildflower meadows, fresh grass, and vibrant citrus’ can be found on the nose, with ‘dark chocolate, salted caramel and vanilla’ on the palette. The finish is ‘wrapped up with a briny, smouldering ash’.

Distributed in the UK through Speciality Brands, the 8 Years Old can be purchased for RRP £49.95 (US$61), the Cask Strength for £64.95 (US$53), and the 17 Years Old for £125 (US$152).

In other Islay news, Chivas Brothers – the Scotch whisky arm of Pernod Ricard – recently revealed its plans to open its first distillery on the Scottish island.