Port Ellen 1978 24 years Hunter Laing The Old Malt Cask 50% – Rare Islay legend

Port Ellen 1978 24 years from Hunter Laing – The Old Malt Cask is an iconic and extremely rare single malt whisky from one of Islay’s most mythical distilleries. Distilled in January 1978 and bottled in May 2002 after 24 years of maturation, this bottling represents an era that will never return. Only 478 bottles were produced – a true collector’s item and a piece of living whisky heritage.

Port Ellen closed in 1983, and every bottle from the original production is now a coveted treasure among enthusiasts around the world. This edition is carefully selected by Hunter Laing and bottled at 50% alcohol, ensuring a beautiful balance of intensity, structure and elegance.

The style is classic Port Ellen: maritime, smoky and refined. A whisky where the peat smoke doesn’t overpower, but plays in perfect harmony with citrus, salt and the deep complexity of the cask. This is Islay at its most noble – and most rare.

Tasting notes

Aroma: Rich waves of smoked peat, sea salt and fresh citrus zest. Underlying notes of vanilla, light honey and a subtle mineral edge.

Flavor: Intense and complex with charred oak, dried fruits and dark chocolate. The characteristic maritime saltiness is evident, adding depth and structure.

Finish: Long and persistent with warm smoke, glowing embers and gentle spices that slowly fades into an elegant and dry finish.

About Port Ellen and Hunter Laing

Port Ellen was one of Islay’s most respected distilleries and is now legendary among collectors. The 1970s production is considered to be among the finest the distillery ever created. The closure in 1983 turned these casks into historical relics and each bottling represents an irreplaceable part of Scotch whisky history.

Hunter Laing specializes in selecting and preserving exceptional casks from Scotland’s most prestigious distilleries with their The Old Malt Cask series. This 24-year-old Port Ellen is a shining example of their uncompromising approach to quality and authenticity.

• Distillery: Port Ellen
• Bottler: Hunter Laing – The Old Malt Cask
• Distilled: January 1978
• Bottled: May 2002
• Age: 24 years
• Number of bottles: 478
• Quantity: 70 cl
• Alcohol: 50%alcohol