A first for the Port Charlotte Cask Exploration Series, the SYC:01 spirit has matured primarily in Syrah casks. A red wine renowned for being bold and full bodied, the Syrah cask maturation profile has imparted rich red fruit notes and layers of spice to the final SYC:01 spirit, complementing Port Charlotte’s signature aromatic peat smoke. 10 years matured and bottled at 54.4% ABV, the latest release is robust and incredibly smooth, with the 2013 vintage conceived, distilled, matured, and bottled only on Islay.

Malted barley, yeast, water

Nose/Aroma: Caramel sweetness is immediate on the nose, followed by a medley of fresh fruit and a subtle hint of peat smoke. Top notes of strawberry, red apple, apricot jam and mixed berries from the Syrah casks come to the fore, underpinned by a combination of oak and lingering smoke. Gentle spices from the oak, ginger, marzipan and honey complement the fruity character, heighted with bonfire smoked oak sweetness. Palate: Charred oak and elegant barbeque peat smoke coat the palate, beautifully balanced with sweet fruit. Vibrant notes of candied peel, fresh mango, brown sugar and sweet bubble gum add a lightness and complexity, cutting through the smoke. A drop of water draws out the aromatic oak, as lavender and herbal notes combine with smooth honey, ground ginger and roasted coffee beans.