Port Askaig is an independent bottling range of Islay single malt Scotch whiskies, named after the small harbour village on the island’s east coast that serves as one of the main gateways to Islay. Known for its ferry terminal connecting the island to the Scottish mainland, Port Askaig has become a fitting symbol for a whisky brand that aims to offer an accessible yet authentic introduction to Islay’s smoky, maritime style.
Launched by Speciality Drinks (the company behind The Single Malts of Scotland), Port Askaig is bottled from carefully selected casks sourced from undisclosed Islay distilleries. While the exact source distillery is never officially named, industry speculation often points towards renowned producers on Islay’s north-east coast, with some releases believed to be from the famous Caol Ila or Bunnahabhain distilleries. This mystery adds an element of intrigue while allowing the focus to remain firmly on the whisky’s flavour.
Port Askaig’s philosophy is to showcase the classic Islay character, a balance of peat smoke, coastal salinity, and underlying sweetness, in a range of ages and strengths that appeal to both newcomers and seasoned peat lovers. All bottlings are non-chill filtered and naturally coloured, preserving the whisky’s full texture and natural appearance.
Flavour profiles across the range typically open with aromatic peat smoke, reminiscent of a beach bonfire, backed by sea spray, citrus peel, and sweet barley sugar. With age, the peat softens, revealing layers of vanilla, orchard fruit, and polished oak while retaining a coastal freshness.
Part of Port Askaig’s appeal lies in its approachability. The younger bottlings are vibrant and energetic, perfect for those discovering Islay whisky for the first time, while the older expressions offer depth and nuance that reward slow sipping and contemplation. By offering a consistent core style across different ages, Port Askaig provides a reliable benchmark for lovers of maritime peat.
The brand’s packaging reflects its understated elegance, classic label design, muted colours, and minimal embellishment, letting the whisky itself take centre stage. This traditional look echoes the timeless nature of Islay whisky-making while avoiding the over-romanticised imagery often found in marketing.
Our Port Askaig selection includes a range of age statements and limited releases, from the lively and smoky 8 Year Old to rare, well-aged expressions that show peat’s graceful evolution in cask. Whether you’re seeking a bold, youthful Islay malt or a sophisticated dram for a special occasion, Port Askaig captures the essence of Islay’s eastern shore, smoky, salty, and irresistibly inviting.
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