Port Charlotte Islay Barley 2014 captures the very essence of Islay whisky, celebrating both place and character. Distilled from Concerto barley grown exclusively on the island and sourced from seven local farms, this expression reflects the unique conditions of its harvest year. Peated to 40 ppm and matured for seven years in ex-American whiskey barrels, a quarter of the spirit is further aged in French wine casks from Pessac-Léognan, adding nuance and depth.
The nose opens with delicate florals—lily and geranium—before bright orange zest merges with warm peat smoke. Layers of banana caramel tart, coconut, apricot, cherry and melon follow. On the palate, it is beautifully balanced, offering notes of almond, vanilla, coconut, caramel and gentle peat smoke. The finish lingers with fruity, smoky and floral tones, as peach, melon and cherry gradually give way to a final, elegant wave of Islay peat.
