Single Malt 4th Release 25YO Bottled 2004
⏳ wine.drinking_window
As a high-strength single malt Scotch whisky, this bottle does not mature further in glass and will remain in peak condition indefinitely if stored upright away from direct light.
🍽️ wine.food_pairings
Smoked wild salmon, Roquefort blue cheese, Dark chocolate
✨ wine.spec_sheet
Port Ellen is a name whispered with reverence among spirits enthusiasts. Closed in 1983 during a dark era for the Scotch whisky industry, this Islay icon became a 'ghost' distillery, its remaining casks slowly maturing in warehouses kissed by the salty Atlantic winds. The 4th Annual Special Release, distilled in 1978 and bottled in 2004 at 25 years of age, represents a pinnacle of this lost era. It captures the quintessential Port Ellen profile: a mesmerizing dance of intense maritime peat smoke, damp sea-cliff air, soft worn leather, and a delicate thread of oily citrus. This release is highly coveted by collectors worldwide, serving as a liquid time capsule of Islay's rich distilling heritage before the distillery's historic revival in 2024.
🍾 wine.about_producer
Established in 1825 by Alexander Mackay on the south coast of Islay, Scotland, Port Ellen is a legendary name in the world of spirits, revered for its deeply complex and peaty single malt Scotch whiskies. After acquisition by John Ramsay and later transitioning to Diageo, the distillery was closed in 1983, transforming its remaining maturing casks into some of the most highly coveted and collectible liquid gold in existence. Characterized by a signature profile of intense peat smoke, maritime brine, soft leather, and oily citrus, its rare vintage releases—such as the highly prized annual Diageo Special Releases—are celebrated globally by connoisseurs. In 2024, Diageo officially revived this iconic producer, restoring its historic spirit stills to continue its legacy of uncompromising Islay character.