Talisker's Delicious New Scotch Is Its Rarest Release Yet—and Rich With Sea Smoke
Talisker just announced the newest run of its limited-edition 30-year-old Scotch whisky.
The whisky brand first rolled out its 30-year-old limited-edition single malt in 2006 as part of a special collection. Since then, the distillery has become a household name among Scotch lovers. The spotlight is more than deserved, as the Diageo-owned brand continues to carry the torch for island whiskies, particularly the Isle of Skye, where it is just one of two distilleries (along with the excellent, but tiny, Torabhaig).
Although the 30-year-old launched back in 2006, it didn't become an annual release until 2021. And this year’s edition turns out to be even more special than those that came before it, simply because it’s the rarest of them all. Just 2,610 bottles will be made available—and less than 800 of those bottles will be purchasable in the U.S.
The whisky itself carries all the hallmarks of a great Talisker: Aromas of red apples and stone fruits combine with whiffs of wood spice, vanilla, pepper, and dark chocolate. The palate delivers warm sea smoke, rich pecan, and bonfire embers to go along with more orchard fruits and fudge. And the finish lingers, with notes of toffee, sea salt, and smoke.
“This new release of Talisker 30-year-old holds all the classic characteristics of the single malt, yet elevated to new heights,” says Ewan Gunn, senior ambassador for Diageo’s single malt Scotch whiskies. “Soaring with sweet smoke and pointy notes of pepper, this latest release is an elegant and complex expression. The 30-year-old is a consistently exceptional release.”
Those hoping to get their hands on a bottle of the 2024 Talisker 30 Year Old will have to act quickly, as only 741 bottles will make their way across the Atlantic and onto U.S. shelves. Additionally, those looking should be prepared to open their wallets wide, as bottles are priced at $1,100 each—though that’s not bad compared to last winter’s Glacial Edge Aged 45 Years, which was priced at $5,000.