Talisker 10 years

Score: 72

Talisker 10 Year Old came in second place in the tasting, a strong result for a whisky that remains an icon of coastal peat, even if it’s not quite the powerhouse it once was. From the Isle of Skye, Talisker 10 is a classic single malt that’s earned its reputation through decades of consistent character and bold maritime charm. The nose delivers a smoky, salty sea breeze, layered with sweetness and malt. On the palate, those sweet and malty notes take the lead, only to be overcome again on the finish by smoke. It’s a journey of contrasts, and the healthy 45.8% ABV keeps it interesting throughout. There’s black pepper, brine, citrus, and a touch of bonfire ash, all wrapped in a rugged, windswept profile. Talisker 10 is an original, and it will always have a fan base. But among seasoned club members, there was a sense that it’s not quite as great as it used to be, perhaps a touch more restrained, a little less wild. Still, it held its own and earned its place on the podium. A dram that’s bold, briny, and unmistakably Skye, Talisker 10 remains a benchmark for island whisky. It may not be the showstopper it once was, but it’s still a reliable favorite, and a whisky that knows how to make an entrance—and a smoky exit.