Talisker Neist Point

It’s a bit surprising that this is only the second Talisker I’ve reviewed here. Especially considering they’re one of my favorite distilleries and at the time of writing this post I have 11 different bottlings, not including multiples! I digress.

Talisker has released a number of NAS bottlings, and the Neist Point is at the top of the range (especially in price-point). The release is named after the northern most point on the Isle of Skye. Originally released exclusive to the travel market, it’s been marketed as being comprised of hand-selected rare and matured Talisker stocks. Unfortunately, this bottle does not feel that special. The chill-filtering, low ABV, coloring, and flat profile are a huge disappointment. It’s decent at best. No longer exclusive to travel retail, might hint this bottle was not as successful as Diageo had hoped.

You’re better off with Talisker 10 or Talisker Storm at a third of the RRP, or Talisker 18 for almost the same RRP.

BOTTLE INFO

Distiller: Talisker
Region: Isle of Skye
ABV: 45.8%
Mashbill: 100% Malted Barley
Cask Type: Unknown
Age: NAS
Chill Filtered: Yes
Color Added: Yes
Color: Tawny

TASTING NOTES

Glass for Review:
Nose: Very light nose. Ripe tropical fruits, vanilla, caramel covered apples. Light notes of clove and mint. Not as Earthy as other Talisker’s, with a hint of light smoke.
Palate: The palate and nose are very similar, not overly sweet fruit notes, but a definite influence of kiwi, pears, apples. The smoke is more pronounced on the palate with other slightly medicinal and mineral notes.
Finish: Smokey from palate to finish, followed by apples, pears, and the mint makes a reappearance in the finish. Drying finish, but lingering.
Overall: This is different than the core Talisker range. While not my favorite, I like the different take from a classic distillery but it falls far short of expectations. There is more of a fruit than Talisker storm, and less smoke.

Average Price: $120-140USD (exclusive to EU)