The Single Malts – Talisker
‘Single Malt,’ were there ever two more beautiful words in the English language? The single malt is the king of whiskeys. True appreciation comes only with long years of intense and strenuous practice. I present my small collection of single malts in no particular order of merit and my tastes and experiences are purely subjective.
Talisker, by God what a drink! Hailing from the Isle of Skye, this is what a single malt is all about. A fine starter malt for a virgin drinker, it delivers a rich tasty experience, but will not punish you the way a Laphrohaig or a Springbank will. Easy on the tongue, with a smooth, sweet taste and the merest hint of the smokiness one associates with the peatier malts. Only a hint though.
Talisker has a lovely warm aftertaste that makes it one of my favourites. A single malt for long winter nights in front of a warm fire. I picked this bottle up on my last trip to France, where they appreciate a fine single malt. Over there one can be purchased in the local supermarket for a song. This 10 year old set me back €23 and wouldn’t be seen for less than €50 – €60 in Dublin.