Talisker Storm
Nose
The nose starts with a real citrus-vanilla bomb that immediately reminds me of sunny moments on the Isle of Skye - if they even exist there. This maritime, salty character is unmistakably Talisker, but subtle enough not to be overwhelming.
The smoke is restrained and is more "warm" than intrusive. Liquorice and honey join in, accompanied by a surprising melon note that gives the whole thing an almost summery freshness. This is maritime elegance without making you feel like you've just nibbled seaweed.
Taste
The peat smoke becomes more present, but remains balanced. The maritime saltiness is back - a trademark that makes Talisker so unmistakable. Interestingly, the citrus note changes to a more orangey variant, as if the whisky is maturing as it lingers in the mouth.
Finish
The finish is full-bodied and remains true to the Talisker DNA. The smoke envelops the tongue, but the famous "Talisker kick" - that peppery aftertaste that normally conquers the throat - is noticeably muted. This is definitely a positive aspect and makes the Storm more accessible for beginners.
Thoughts
The Talisker Storm is a successful balancing act between tradition and accessibility. It preserves the distillery's DNA, but makes compromises that suit the whisky well.
Those who find the Talisker 10 Year Old too wild will discover a more accessible alternative here. At the same time, it offers enough character to satisfy even the most discerning palates.
Rating: 79/100 - Very Good (Marcel: 78 | Sascha: 79)
Value for Money: 4/5 - Good
Preview Image Source: Whiskybase
FAQ: The Most Common Questions
❓ How does Talisker Storm differ from the classic Talisker 10?
👉 The Storm is more balanced and approachable than the 10-year-old. While the 10-year-old is more direct and sometimes more polarising, the Storm has a muted Talisker kick and more sweetness. The Storm combines different cask maturations and deliberately avoids an age statement to offer a more consistent flavour experience.
❓ Is Talisker Storm suitable for whisky beginners?
👉 Absolutely! The Storm is even particularly recommended for beginners who want to get to know maritime whiskies. The salty and smoky notes are present, but not overwhelming. The toned-down "kick" makes it more accessible than other Talisker bottlings without losing its characteristic flavour.
❓ What is the best way to drink Talisker Storm?
👉 The Storm unfolds excellently pure at room temperature. A small splash of water can also open up the flavours, but is not absolutely necessary. If you enjoy it on the rocks, you should use large ice cubes to avoid excessive dilution. It is particularly effective as a digestif after a savoury meal.