This special release for Feìs Ìle, the annual whisky festival and celebration on Islay, used Port Charlotte from the very first season of distillation— it was a watershed moment for the whisky, one that reflected the changing profile of the spirit as it matures and foretelling the rise of high age statements. For peaty whisky enthusiasts it is an exciting time.

---

Whisky: Port Charlotte 16 Year (2001) “The Heretic” for Feìs Ìle 2018

Country/Region: Scotland/Islay

ABV: 55.9%

Cask: American Whiskey, Rum, French Wine

Age: 16 Years (Distilled 2001, Bottled 15 May 2018)

Notes: Farmy and coastal, the aroma had a clean pasture with just a few animals receiving muscle rubs and plenty of fruit. That’s right, camphor and menthol to relieve tightness and stiffness, while grass, apples, and lemons provided a pleasant snack. Wispy smoke and tobacco lingered in the background with dry earth and weathered oak paneling; it was always a bit sweet though with old fashioned candy cigarettes. Medium-bodied, though on the lighter side, the flavor profile was much the same with earth and grass leading to orchard fruits and lemon candies— a touch of acrylic paint in the background. Wild mint and hints of camphor appeared with clove cigarettes toward the end as a touch of spirit provided a peppery, and slightly bitter, finale. The finish was medium-length with earth, wispy smoke, and medicinal herbs.

---

Score: 6 (77)

Mental Image: Vintage Candy, Slightly Stale

Conclusion: I love Port Charlotte, but this felt a bit confused about what it wanted to be— a complaint I have had before with some of these Feìs Ìle releases (from Laddie and others). Rather than showcase the power or the subtleties of the spirit, this hit somewhere in the middle and never came together. Was this just an awkward teen? Maybe. The whisky was certainly drinkable, and even a bad Port Charlotte is still pretty good, but I was disappointed with this one and found some of the bitterness at the end a turn off.