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Port Charlotte Unveils Limited 18 Year Old Expression for 2025

The Port Charlotte 18 year old expression features a complex maturation process, with 53% of the spirit aged in first-fill bourbon casks and 31% in second-fill sherry casks.
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Credit: Bruichladdich

Port Charlotte has released its latest premium expression, the 18 Year Old 2025 Edition, continuing the brand’s tradition of heavily-peated Islay single malt whisky with exceptional provenance.

The limited-release spirit is produced entirely on Islay using 100% Scottish barley. According to Bruichladdich Distillery, every aspect of production—from distillation to maturation and bottling—took place exclusively on the island, with casks never leaving its shores.

“Port Charlotte speaks of its island home,” says Head Distiller Adam Hannett. “This is a spirit which is rooted in authenticity, provenance and community. For me, it’s everything an Islay Scotch whisky should be.”

Port Charlotte 18 Year Old 2025 

The Port Charlotte 18 year old expression features a complex maturation process, with 53% of the spirit aged in first-fill bourbon casks and 31% in second-fill sherry casks. The remaining 16% underwent an intricate journey—initially aging in sherry casks for 11 years before transferring to virgin French oak for approximately five years, then finishing in second-fill bourbon barrels.

The latest 2025 Edition showcases how multifaceted and unique Port Charlotte is when it comes to flavour,” continues Hannett. “With a primarily bourbon cask influence, a distinct salinity from its island maturation, and bottled at 18 Years Old – a real sweet spot for the heavily peated spirit – the latest expression is refined yet exceptionally elegant. There’s real depth and complexity with every sip.

“Bourbon forward maturation is in keeping with our Bruichladdich Distillery house-style,” Hannett explains. “It gives our single malt whiskies a light, vibrant and elegant character, which works exceptionally well with Port Charlotte’s distinct, smoky flavor.”

Tasting Profile

The distillery describes the 2025 Edition as offering dried fruits on the nose, with figs, sultanas and raisins complementing the signature earthy peat smoke. The palate features dark brown sugar, fresh vanilla and heather honey, while apricot jam and red fruits balance the whisky’s smoky, barbecue character.

According to tasting notes, the finish delivers rich crème brûlée and toasted hazelnut flavors with subtle mineral notes—a reminder of its island maturation.

Malted to 40 PPM and bottled at 103 proof (51.5% ABV), the Port Charlotte 18 Year Old 2025 Edition is available now at bruichladdich.com and select specialist retailers for $175 (£175).

The Whiskey Wash Team

The Whiskey Wash Team brings together certified spirits specialists, industry experts, and passionate whiskey writers delivering authoritative coverage of the global whiskey landscape. With deep expertise in bourbon, Scotch, Japanese whisky, and emerging world expressions, the team combines technical knowledge with engaging storytelling. Through news, reviews, and in-depth features, we help both newcomers and connoisseurs navigate the complex world of whiskey, sharing the heritage, innovation, and craftsmanship that makes each bottle unique. Our mission is to inform, educate, and build community through trustworthy, accessible content that serves whiskey enthusiasts worldwide.

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