Port Charlotte 2004/2023 18 Years
Sometimes you come across a whisky that immediately captivates you - and sometimes you come across a bottling that makes you wonder. The Port Charlotte 2004/2023, an 18-years Islay representative from the renowned Bruichladdich Distillery, is just such a case.
Tasting Notes
Nose
The first whiff is a mixture of the familiar and the irritating. The warm smoke of a campfire rises up, accompanied by a slightly nutty, almost fermented note - walnuts that have lain a little too long? Caramel and malt provide a sweet base, while cereal flavours are reminiscent of freshly ground grain. Then red fruits suddenly appear - not dominant, but as a subtle nuance in the background.
Palate
The first sip - and there it is, the smoke. Voluminous, powerful and yet elegant, not too aggressive, but perfectly interwoven with the structure. Then comes the flavour: intense oak tones that combine with woody berries and a hint of fried bacon. A hint of salt comes through, perhaps a reminiscence of the stormy Islay coast? The cask maturation is clearly evident, but without overwhelming the distillate - with the oak notes clearly gaining the upper hand.
Finish
Long and intense - not a gentle finish, but a real finale. The bitter oak remains dominant, but is offset by a subtle berry note. And then an almost BBQ-like ham note emerges, which combines with the smoke and ensures a savoury, slightly salty finish.
Thoughts
Marcel 85/100
This Port Charlotte 2004/2023 is a smoky character with edges and angles, one that doesn’t immediately embrace everyone, but that’s precisely what makes it all the more intriguing. Anyone craving an intense campfire atmosphere paired with a touch of unconventional fruitiness should definitely grab this. A dramatic Islay experience that invites reflection and enjoyment with every note.
Sascha 87/100
The Port Charlotte 2004/2023 impresses with its balanced structure between powerful smoke and dominant oak tones, which blend with subtle berry nuances. The complex interplay of spice, malt, and a salty finish reveals a fascinating barrel maturation, though it might remain a bit challenging for lovers of more harmonious Islay whiskies.
Value for Money: No rating
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84/100Frequently Asked Questions
How does the 18-year cask maturation influence the taste of the Port Charlotte 2004/2023?
The 18-year maturation imparts intense oak tones that are dominant but not overpowering. This creates a complex structure balancing smoke, spice, and fruity nuances.
What makes the smoky flavor of this Islay whisky unique?
The smoke is full-bodied and powerful yet elegantly integrated. It evokes campfire smoke combined with a salty note reminiscent of Islay’s stormy coast, complemented by savory BBQ-like ham aromas.
Why are both nutty and fruity notes perceptible in the aroma of the Port Charlotte 2004/2023?
The aroma combines complex elements: nutty notes like walnut arise from the long maturation, while subtle red fruits provide a delicate background nuance that enhances sweetness and freshness. This combination results in a multi-layered nose.