Islay single malt whisky brand Port Askaig is launching a revamped core range of three expressions.
The new whiskies are accompanied by a new bottle design and a new brand tagline, "The gateway to Islay", which Port Askaig's owner Elixir Distillers hopes will help it to grow the brand's profile and presence both in the UK and abroad.
The flagship of the new core range is the Port Askaig 8 Years Old. Made to a brand-new recipe, it is matured for its first three years in American oak followed by at least five years in bourbon barrels, toasted new American oak casks, Pedro Ximénez sherry butts, and refill hogsheads.
The 8 Years Old is accompanied by two limited expressions: the Cask Strength and the 17 Years Old. Port Askaig Cask Strength will be bottled from batches of no more than 60 casks each year – batch #1-2023 has been aged in first-fill bourbon barrels and refill American oak hogsheads and is bottled at 59.4% ABV. Port Askaig 17 Years Old will also be an annual release (of approximately 9,000 bottles each year), with the first release matured in American oak casks and bottled at 51.8% ABV.
Oliver Chilton, master blender at Elixir Distillers, said: “The relaunch of Port Askaig's core range marks a profound moment in our pursuit to capture the essence of Islay. With each expression, we invite you to immerse yourself in the island's unique character – from the rugged landscapes to the salty sea air and iconic peat smoke that Islay is renowned for.
“The refreshed Port Askaig 8 Year Old is a steadfast companion on this journey, a true gateway to Islay whisky, and with Port Askaig Cask Strength and Port Askaig 17 Year Old, we unveil chapters of Islay's story that continue to unfold with every sip. Each expression is a testament to our dedication to authenticity and quality, and we are immensely proud to present this relaunch.”
All three expressions in the Port Askaig core range are bottled non-chill filtered and with natural colour.
Port Askaig 8 Years Old (RRP £49.95), Port Askaig Cask Strength (RRP £64.95), and Port Askaig 17 Years Old (RRP £125) will be available globally from October and in the UK via distributor Speciality Brands.
