Talisker The Wild Blue Review: Grilled Meat, Tobacco, and a Hint of Pepper, with Red Wine and Berries Too

If there is one whisky brand intrinsically linked with the sea, it has to be Talisker. The whisky consistently bears maritime influences. But what happens when an African influence is added to the mix? You'll find out in this Talisker The Wild Blue whisky review.

Like many other distilleries in Scotland, Talisker enjoys experimenting with unique barrels. For The Wild Blue bottling, the distillery has ‘designed’ a unique Scotch whisky.

After its initial maturation, the whisky is sloshed into red wine barrels from Africa for 16 more months for a finish. Something exciting for Talisker, seeing as a whisky from the Skye whisky-maker has never matured in such barrels before.

Each of these barrels holds a clear link with the distillery on Skye. They all originate from a coastal region. While the precise regions are not mentioned, it does pique our interest for the maritime character of the whisky.

Besides making great whisky, Talisker is also adept at supporting worthy causes. These causes are linked with the maritime nature of the Scottish distillery. Previously, Parley for the Ocean was supported. This year it's The Blue Marine Foundation.

This organization is dedicated to restoring the health and life of the oceans. Furthermore, the organization works on improving water quality.

Now, Talisker aids with this single malt whisky by donating three pounds for each bottle to the foundation. By buying the whisky, you're actually helping nature.

The Talisker whisky bottle exhibits the classic form we're accustomed to from the distillery. The bottle is somewhat long and narrow with a beautiful neck. Instead of a large label, the bottle is printed with a wave. It's a clear nod to the ocean being supported with this whisky.

Furthermore, there's a small label on the front and a sticker on the back, providing information about The Wild Blue whisky. The wooden cap of the bottle has an engraving of Skye that beautifully complements it.

The bottle is completely transparent, showcasing the beautiful reddish-brown color of the whisky. The color is enough to arouse curiosity regarding the taste of the whisky, even though the whisky is artificially colored with E150 caramel. But, fortunately, this shouldn't affect the taste or smell.

The perfume immediately brings forth notes of red fruit. Sour red berries and a typical red wine scent greet your nostrils, followed by a salty and smoky note. This is truly a Talisker with a twist. The character of the distillery is not lost, but takes a small step to the side for a touch of innovation.

Along with these primary scents, other notes of figs, blueberries, grilled meat, fresh tobacco leaves, wet ash and a hint of menthol waft by. It's a rich blend of scents that makes you even more curious about the taste, even if you're not a fan of smoke.

The taste of the whisky starts with a hit of pepper. Slowly, notes of cranberry, citrus, and sweet wine-like tones emerge. All these happen under a hint of smoky fruit with a bitter edge. Leather-like tones and soot taste follow later.

Although the whisky does not really bite the tongue, a touch of pepper persists with each sip nearly to the end. Not everyone may be enamored by this, but it does lend the taste a flavor of intrigue.

The Wild Blue is a thoroughbred Talisker whisky. If this isn't usually your jam: give it a try nonetheless, because it's truly different. The red wine barrel has had a positive influence on the whisky, making the single malt not only more complex but also more accessible for those who generally shy away from salty and smoky flavors.

+ More complex than expected

+ The character of Talisker isn't overshadowed by the wine barrels

+ Accessible even to those who don't particularly go for smoke or maritime flavors

- Colored with E150 caramel