Talisker has collaborated with Parley for several of its top end expressions in a bid to contribute to the ocean conservation cause. Together, Talisker and Parley has set out a shared goal to rewild more than 100 million square metres of ocean forest.

Previously this has seen two of Talisker's most aged expressions - 43 Year Old Xpedition Oak and 44 Year Old Forests of the Deep. Both have been incredibly out of reach.

But now, Talisker is finally taking its Parley collaboration to the average drinker (hurrah!) with its new Wilder Seas expression that is an non-age statement Islay Scotch finished in French Oak XO Cognac casks. The bottle itself is made of 100% recycled glass made from biofuel (not including a couple of trimmings).

For every bottle sold 3 GBP will be donated to Parley's ocean conservation cause, specifically to preserve sea forests off Scotland, South Africa and Chile.

Official Tasting Notes

Appearance 

A glorious, shining deep amber with reddish lights. The rich colour of rosewood or a freshly opened horse chestnut. ​

Aroma

 Mild and dry in feel, yet rich overall. Tight-packed top notes of fruit and malt suggest malt bread with sultanas, dates and dried figs. Beneath them, a light mineral hint of chalk leads into rousing maritime notes of brine, salt crystals and ship’s rails in a high sea, all on a lightly fruity, winey base, with a hint of pipe tobacco.

Adding a little water brings up a smoky note. ​

Taste

The creamy-smooth mouthfeel introduces a big taste that starts richly sweet then quickly becomes salty, smoky and fruity, with lush, sweet hints of sultana and fig mid-palate wrapped in rising peppery spice and smokiness.

Rich and intense at natural strength, it becomes slightly sweeter, fruitier (suggesting ripe figs again) and spicier if water is added.

Body

Medium to full​.​

Finish

Long, warming and lightly drying, with a familiar late peppery catch and a most appealing smoky-fruity aftertaste. ​

A total of 17,940 bottles have been produced, priced at 75 GBP, and bottled at 48.6% ABV.

Images courtesy of Talisker.

Kanpai!

88 Bamboo Editorial Team