I hadn’t tried official Port Ellen releases since the 12th release in 2012, simply because I couldn’t find a sample, let alone afford a bottle. I’ve tried few independent Port Ellen expressions the last few years for that matter – it is now a truly rare whisky.

Now I had the chance to try the 2016 release . It is 37 years old.

Port Ellen 37 yo 1978 ‘16th release’ (55,2%, OB 2016, 2940 btl.)

Nose: starts earthy and coastal, on fishing nets, damp canvas, a bit of shoe polish. Lots of leathery notes as well. Waxed papers. Thinking about...