Talisker 8 Year Old Tidal Churn - Diageo Special Releases 2024

Nose

From the very first nosing, it becomes clear that someone has captured the sea and put it in a bottle. The nose is extremely maritime - and that is an understatement. Seaweed that remains on the beach at low tide mixes with flavours that are actually reminiscent of seafood. Marcel even spoke of "fossils" - and this description hits the nail on the head.
Cold smoke wafts over, as if you were standing on a Scottish beach while a peat fire smoulders in the distance. Chalky notes give the whole thing a mineral base, which is rounded off by subtle vanilla tones and fresh lemon zest.

Taste

In the mouth, the Tidal Churn unfolds its full geological complexity. Plenty of pepper provides the initial wake-up call, followed by a salty wave that is typical of every good Talisker. But then things get interesting: clear mineral notes dominate the flavour, supported by aromas of fresh bread.
The flavours reminiscent of pebbles, limestone and fossils are particularly fascinating. This may sound abstract at first, but anyone who gets involved will understand: This whisky really does taste like the history of the earth. Apple and pear fruit provide a pleasant counterpoint to the basic mineral structure and prevent the whole thing from becoming too stony.

Finish

The finish is dry and smoky - classic Talisker characteristics that are particularly striking here. The famous chilli catch, for which the distillery is known, appears in the form of white pepper, which lingers on the tongue for a long time.