Port Charlotte SYC:01 2013 Islay Single Malt Scotch

Caramel sweetness is immediate on the nose, followed by a medley of fresh fruit and a subtle hint of peat smoke. Top notes of strawberry, red apple, apricot jam and mixed berries from the Syrah casks come to the fore, underpinned by a combination of oak and lingering smoke. Gentle spices from the oak, ginger, marzipan and honey complement the fruity character, heighted with bonfire smoked oak sweetness.

Charred oak and elegant barbeque peat smoke coat the palate, beautifully balanced with sweet fruit. Vibrant notes of candied peel, fresh mango, brown sugar and sweet bubble gum add a lightness and complexity, cutting through the smoke. A drop of water draws out the aromatic oak, as lavender and herbal notes combine with smooth honey, ground ginger and roasted coffee beans.

While the sweetness of fruit and oak remain, a gentle wave of peat smoke is unmistakable on the finish. Toasted Brazil nuts, coconut and cocoa powder bring a delicate creaminess, while a hint of dried seaweed lingers.

The land has a profound effect on the drinking experience and is imperative to the flavour of our whiskies. And Port Charlotte SYC:01 is the epitome of this philosophy. Distilled from 100%, fully traceable Scottish grown barley, malted to 40 PPM and matured exclusively on Islay, this 2013 vintage has been shaped by the natural elements and its unique island locale.

A first for the Port Charlotte Cask Exploration Series, the SYC:01 spirit has matured primarily in Syrah casks. With a shared philosophy and passion for terroir, the French producer specialises in the creation of organic and biodynamic wines, putting soil and climate at the heart of the process. With minimal intervention and letting the various regions and soils express their true character, the wines much like our Islay single malt whiskies are the most authentic expression of their terroir.

A red wine renowned for being bold and full bodied, the Syrah cask maturation profile has imparted rich red fruit notes and layers of spice to the final SYC:01 spirit, complementing Port Charlottes signature aromatic peat smoke. 10 years matured and bottled at 54.4% ABV, the latest release is robust and incredibly smooth, with the 2013 vintage conceived, distilled, matured, and bottled only on Islay.