If you’ve ever wondered what happens when a rugged islander goes on holiday to the Douro Valley, Port Ruighe is the answer. This expression is a toast to the Scottish traders who braved the high seas to bring Port wine back to the Isle of Skye. By taking the classic, spicy Talisker spirit and double-maturing it in Ruby Port pipes, the distillery has created a fascinating tug-of-war between salt and sugar. The initial nose is all about that familiar maritime smoke and wood-fire embers, but it’s quickly rounded off by a lush sweetness—think ripe plums, dark cherries, and a hint of chocolate. On the palate, it’s a big, oily dram. The signature Talisker "chilli-catch" is still very much present, but the pepper is softened by layers of forest fruits and creamy toffee. It finishes with a long, satisfying cocoa-rich dryness and a lingering wisp of smoke. It’s a sophisticated, "after-dinner" style of Talisker that manages to be both powerful and surprisingly pretty.[#intro]A rich fusion of Skye sea salt and Portuguese sweetness, finished in ruby port casks...[/intro]