This Week

• In Celebration of… Port Charlotte Barley Heavy Peated

• Trivia Question

• Cocktail Corner - The Penicillin

• Trivia Answer

In Celebration of - Port Charlotte Barley Heavy Peated

Let your imagination roam to the rugged shores of Islay, the mist swirling around you, and the peat-laden air filling your senses. Now reach for the perfect companion for such an evocative setting - the Port Charlotte Barley Heavy Peated.

This dram is a true ode to the land from which it hails, crafted from barley harvested exclusively on Islay itself. Perhaps a quintessential representation of everything we love in an Islay. Bring it to your nose. Go on then. Right out of the gate, we get the peat smoke and a whiff of tar, but it’s not unpleasant at all. Then the unmistakable scent of coastal brine intertwined with a hint of citrus zest. It's like taking a stroll along the windswept cliffs, with each inhalation revealing a new layer of complexity.

Take a sip. The palate delivers a bold and robust experience, with waves of smoky peat washing over your taste buds, balanced by notes of rich toffee and dark chocolate. There's a subtle sweetness that lingers, reminiscent of bonfire-roasted marshmallows, adding depth to the experience.

And what a finish. As the warmth of the spirit spreads from your palate to your chest, it leaves behind a trail of smoky sweetness that dances on your tongue. There's a satisfying depth to it, like the fading embers of a bonfire on a cool evening, gradually softening into a subtle earthiness that invites you to take another sip. But before you do, bring it to the nose again. Notice the change? The bouquet quiets and develops after that first sip.

The Port Charlotte distillery, nestled on the shores of Loch Indaal, has a legacy dating back to the 1820s. Revived by the visionary folks at Bruichladdich, it continues to produce whiskies that pay homage to the island's traditions while pushing the boundaries of innovation.

If you're used to the sweeter or lighter notes of the Speysides, Port Charlotte offers an excellent introduction to peatier expressions without overpowering you with harsh leather and overwhelming smoke. This isn't heavy metal, it's more Wagner. Bold, but without being vulgar. And for those who appreciate the full-bodied character of Islay malts, it's a true delight.

The Port Charlotte Islay Barley Heavy Peated is a tribute to the untamed beauty of Islay, encapsulating the essence of the island in every sip. Pour yourself a dram, close your eyes, and let it transport you to the windswept shores of this whisky's home. Cheers to adventure, to tradition, and to the spirit of Islay!

Cocktail Corner
The Penicillin

This modern cocktail combines Islay whisky with honey, ginger, and lemon for a refreshing and complex flavor profile that has become popular across Scotland. The smokiness of the Islay whisky adds depth to the cocktail, while the honey and ginger provide sweetness and spice.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Islay whisky (such as Port Charlotte or Laphroaig)

• 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice

• 3/4 oz honey syrup (1:1 ratio of honey to water)

• 1/4 oz ginger syrup

• Ice

• Candied ginger or lemon twist, for garnish (optional)

Let’s make it:

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine the Islay whisky, fresh lemon juice, honey syrup, and ginger syrup.

2. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to chill the mixture.

3. Strain the cocktail into a chilled rocks glass filled with ice.

4. Optionally, garnish with a slice of candied ginger or a twist of lemon peel for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.

5. Serve and enjoy. (Best part!)

The Penicillin perfectly balances the smoky richness of Islay whisky with the brightness of lemon and the sweetness of honey and ginger, creating a complex and satisfying drink that's sure to please.

We hope you enjoyed our celebration of Port Charlotte. If you need to reach us, have feedback, or have a topic you would like to see, please let us know at [email protected]