Port Ellen 19 Year Old 1982 Douglas Laing Old Malt Cask 2001 bottling 70cl

Port Ellen 19 Year Old 1982 Douglas Laing Old Malt Cask 2001 bottling 70cl

A bottle of Port Ellen 19 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky. This was distilled in February 1982, matured in a single sherry cask and bottled at 50% ABV in November 2001 for Douglas Laing's Old Malt Cask range.

THE RARE AND CELEBRATED WHISKIES OF PORT ELLEN

Port Ellen's whiskies are revered for their elegant complexity, harmonious balance of peat and fruit, and the distinctive maritime character that is the hallmark of Islay malts. The distillery's closure in 1983 left behind a finite supply of whiskies, transforming them into highly sought-after collector's items and symbols of Islay's whisky-making heritage.

Port Ellen's relationship with i ndependent whisky bottlers like Douglas Laing, has given rise to a plethora of extraordinary expressions that highlight the distillery's spirit in unique and exciting ways. Esteemed independent bottlers, such as Douglas Laing, Signatory Vintage, and Gordon & MacPhail, have released a range of Port Ellen whiskies, each capturing a different facet of the distillery's character.

These independent bottlings often feature Port Ellen whiskies matured in rare cask types, single-cask releases, or limited-edition bottlings that showcase the distillery's exceptional spirit. As a result, these expressions have become highly prized by collectors and connoisseurs alike, offering a glimpse into the distillery's illustrious past and the magic of its whiskies.

A JOURNEY THROUGH PORT ELLEN'S HISTORY

Port Ellen Distillery has a fascinating history that spans nearly two centuries. Founded in 1825, the distillery has had its fair share of ups and downs, including periods of closure and revival. Here's the rich history of Port Ellen Distillery, from its inception to its impending resurrection.

THE EARLY YEARS (1825-1930)

Port Ellen Distillery was established in 1825 by Alexander Ker Mackay, a merchant and entrepreneur. Named after the nearby harbour village, Port Ellen Distillery initially struggled to find its footing, with ownership changing hands several times during its first few decades.

In 1836, the distillery was acquired by John Ramsay, who helped to develop its reputation for producing exceptional whisky. Under his ownership, Port Ellen Distillery flourished, and its whisky became highly sought after both domestically and abroad. Ramsay's influence on the distillery's success was significant; he oversaw the introduction of modern equipment and practices, as well as the expansion of its production capacity.

A PERIOD OF DORMANCY (1930-1967)

Port Ellen Distillery faced challenging times during the early 20th century, as global economic instability and Prohibition in the United States led to reduced demand for Scotch whisky. In 1930, the distillery ceased production and was mothballed, remaining inactive for the next 37 years.

THE RESURGENCE (1967-1983)

In 1967, the distillery was purchased by the Distillers Company Limited (DCL), which later became part of Diageo. Production resumed under the new ownership, and the distillery underwent significant upgrades to modernise its facilities. In addition to producing whisky, Port Ellen also supplied malt for other Islay distilleries, including Caol Ila and Lagavulin.

Unfortunately, the whisky industry faced another downturn in the early 1980s, with numerous distilleries closing their doors. In 1983, Port Ellen Distillery was once again mothballed, with its remaining stock left to mature in casks.

CULT STATUS (1983-PRESENT)

Over the years, the whiskies produced during Port Ellen Distillery's relatively short period of activity garnered a cult following among whisky enthusiasts. Bottlings from the distillery became increasingly rare, with demand far outstripping supply. As a result, Port Ellen whiskies have fetched premium prices at auctions and become highly sought after by collectors and connoisseurs alike.

THE REVIVAL (2017-PRESENT)

In 2017, Diageo announced its intention to revive Port Ellen Distillery, with plans to invest £35 million into the project. The distillery's resurrection has generated much excitement among whisky enthusiasts, who eagerly await the release of new Port Ellen whiskies. The distillery is set to resume production in 2023, with the first new whiskies expected to be available by 2030.

50% ABV

One of 570 bottles made

Rare as Hens' teeth!