Now, the main event. The Talisker Storm Review.

I was handed a rather enjoyably full dram of the latest nectar from Skye and headed to the balcony to gently sip this new, age-less nectar with an open mind and a welcoming heart.

I wanted this to be great.

I wanted my first new whisky launch to be remembered.

I wanted to feel surprised.

That’s it for my launch experience, I’m going to focus on the first purchase experience.

Prior to obtaining a bottle, I had read two quotes from the men behind the liquid:

“We wanted to focus on distillery character – the bedrock of Talisker Storm.
So we sought out some great mature Talisker, enriched and mellowed by time spent in carefully rejuvenated casks, and brought that together with some very fresh distillery character preserved by maturation in refill casks. The result is Talisker’s unique distillery character delivered by aged, mature whiskies, integrated in one vibrant dram.” – Master Blender Dr Jim Beveridge “Any new member of the Talisker family has a lot to live up to and I am proud to say that Talisker Storm Whisky does just that. The distinctive whisky we create with such passion and care here on Skye speaks very boldly of the dramatic island where it was born. Everyone here is delighted at the skill with which our malt masters have put together this vivacious new Talisker. Talisker Storm is indeed the right name for it!” – Talisker Distiller Manager Mark Lochhead added

I was not disappointed. Not one bit.

As you hold the box you begin to feel like there is something new going on here, Talisker has taken a step forward and may be on the verge of delivering a fresh product aimed at many different types of whisky consumer. The bottle looks strong, yet weather-dependent. New, yet classic. Demanding, yet enticing. The bottle is opened. The liquid poured. I frantically try to think of a way to pun ‘storm in a teacup’ to sound whisky-oriented. Storm in a Glencairn just isn’t doing it justice. The first sip delivers a multitude of sensations. I like my whisky strong, smoky and peaty, and Storm duly delivers. It marries Talisker’s typical spice with a salty finish and a hint of fruit. Whilst in your mouth and until just after you swallow it is soft but warming.

But five seconds later.

That warming sensation turns into a real burn. A lovely burn that you have to battle a bit but ultimately you are willing to let it take hold. Then repeat. Great brand, great experience(s) and great whisky. Overall: A great session or recreational whisky, would not say it is one for the collector but I am proud to have a first edition on my shelf and look forward to owning and enjoying many more bottles.