Talisker and Parley are on a joint mission to support the preservation of wild sea forests around the planet. Last year they already presented a Talisker 44 Years ‘Forests of the Deep’ and now there is a more affordable release.
Talisker Wilder Seas is the first single malt from the distillery to be finished in French oak XO Cognac casks (XO was at least six year old cognac at that time). It is also the first release that comes in 100% recycled glass made from biofuel. The bottle has a very light green-blue tint but it’s almost clear. I have to say I really like this type of glass.
Each bottle represents a £ 3 donation to Parley to support ocean preservation.
Talisker x Parley ‘Wilder Seas’ (48,6%, OB 2023, 17.940 btl.)
Nose: mild Talisker markers, there are a lot of malty notes (brown bread, brioche) up front, mixed with touches of pepper, raisins and plums. Also hints of toffee in the background. Then a light muddy note, rock pools and some wet gravel. Gentle ashes. The brandy influence is noticeable (in a rather winey way) but never too loud.
Mouth: more typical perhaps, as the classic black pepper is in front row. Behind it there are more sultanas and stewed red apples. Brackish notes come out quickly, alongside warm smoky notes and olive oil. A feeling of plaster as well. Mid-palate it becomes a tad thinner and more one-dimensional, mostly folding back to lemons and chilli heat with a boozy edge.
Finish: medium, on pepper, light smoke, aniseed sharpness and brine.
Talisker has a big personality and this Wilder Seas is no different. I wouldn’t have guessed the cognac treatment, which seems to add some sweetness but also a certain boozy sharpness on the palate. Nice nose, slightly less convincing in the mouth. Overall a nice whisky though. Around € 80-90 from Malts.com depending on the market, or from retailers like The Whisky Exchange.