Single Malt The Bottlers Refill Sherry Butt Cask No 1549 19YO Bottled
⏳ Drinking Window & Cellar Guidance
As a bottled spirit, it is fully matured and will remain in peak condition indefinitely if stored upright, cool, and away from direct sunlight.
🍽️ Culinary Pairings
Smoked blue cheese, dark chocolate, slow-roasted game meats
✨ Technical Specifications
This exceptionally rare single malt represents a legendary chapter in Islay's distilling history. Distilled in 1981 at the now-mythical Port Ellen distillery during its final years of original operation, this liquid was selected by the highly regarded independent bottler, 'The Bottlers'. Matured for 19 years in a single refill sherry butt (Cask No. 1549) and bottled in 2000, it captures the raw, industrial, and maritime character of Port Ellen before its closure in 1983. The refill sherry influence provides a subtle, dried-fruit sweetness and warming spice that perfectly tempers Port Ellen's signature oily peat smoke, kipper douse, and coastal brine. As a 'ghost' distillery bottling, it is a liquid time capsule of Islay heritage.
🍾 About the Producer
Established in 1825 by Alexander Mackay on the south coast of Islay, Port Ellen stands as one of the most revered and iconic names in Scotch whisky history. After operating through various expansions under Distillers Company Limited (now Diageo), the distillery was mothballed during the industry downturn in 1983, achieving legendary 'ghost distillery' status before being meticulously revived and reopened in 2024. Port Ellen is celebrated worldwide for its distinctively refined maritime profile, combining elegant peat smoke, oily texture, coastal salinity, and nuanced citrus layers. Highly coveted by connoisseurs and collectors alike, its vintage single malt releases remain among the most prestigious expressions ever distilled in Scotland.