Port Askaig 8 YO

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Port Askaig 8 Year Old is a beautifully balanced Islay single malt that serves as the perfect gateway into the rugged world of coastal peat. Developed by the specialist team at Elixir Distillers, this award winning expression is bottled at 45.8% ABV, a specific strength chosen to highlight the distillery’s signature maritime oiliness. Matured exclusively in refill American oak Bourbon casks, the 8 year old expression prioritises the “distillery character” over heavy wood influence, allowing the crisp peat and citrus notes to shine through.

This release highlights its incredible consistency; despite being an independent bottling, it has become a “cult core range” staple. The 2025 batches continue to showcase a remarkably sophisticated profile for its age, leaning into the elegant, “sooty” smoke characteristic of the distilleries found near the village of Port Askaig on Islay’s north coast. It remains non-chill filtered and naturally coloured, preserving the authentic, straw gold hue of a true island malt.

Nose: Fresh and vibrantly coastal. Initial aromas of lemon zest and sea spray are followed by a clean, warming peat smoke reminiscent of a beach bonfire. As it opens, subtle notes of honeyed malt, green apple, and a touch of smoked ham emerge, balanced by a faint medicinal hint and damp kelp.

Palate: The mouthfeel is surprisingly oily and coating. Sweet notes of salted caramel and vanilla pod are met by a punchy, mineral rich peat. Mid palate, flavours of liquorice, lime juice, and cracked black pepper develop, all grounded by a persistent but refined earthy sootiness.

Finish: Medium to long and refreshingly crisp. The finish lingers with a dry woodsmoke and sea salt tingle, eventually fading into a sweet trail of lemon sherbet and herbal peat