When a seven-year-old, fully Pedro Ximénez matured peated whisky lands on your desk at a staggering 60.1% ABV, you pay attention. Thanks to a good friend who sourced this Meikle Tòir 2018 Distillery Exclusive straight from the source, I finally got to experience Cask 11564. Limited to just 359 bottles, this is a rare beast. My immediate thought upon cracking the seal was whether this unadulterated single cask could dethrone the beloved Meikle Tòir Turbo as my ultimate heavy-hitter. Unbelievable stuff was expected, and it certainly delivered.
The defining characteristic of Meikle Tòir’s peat style is a highly specific, aromatic smoke. If you have ever walked into a church swinging a thurible of incense, you will know exactly what I mean. It is a smoldering blend of ginger, nutmeg, cinnamon, and cardamom tossed into a wooden barrel and set alight. Because this specific release spent its entire life in a Pedro Ximénez cask, that foundational spice is wrapped in deep, rich notes of cooked plums, red fruit, and something distinctly like a freshly baked raisin muffin. It is an absolutely beautiful nose.
On the palate, I would confidently put this bottle up against any Octomore. At over 120 proof, it possesses all the incredible depth, flavour, and viscosity you demand from a premium cask strength whisky. Yet, miraculously, the alcohol heat is dialed down to feel closer to a standard 50 percent pour. It does not drink hot at all. It is a masterclass in retaining raw power without sacrificing approachability.
However, the ultimate test is pouring it next to the standard Meikle Tòir Turbo. The single cask is undeniably richer and carries a deeper sweetness. Yet, the Turbo wins in sheer crushability. At a very manageable 50% ABV, the Turbo is an everyday banger that you could easily pour through in no time. Ultimately, the Turbo is a better demonstration of Billy Walker’s legendary talent because it allows him to harmonize different casks into a perfectly rounded blend.
I give this PX single cask a very respectable 89, placing it just a hair behind the Turbo. It is an incredible whisky, and I would gladly buy another bottle if I could. I am curious to hear your thoughts. Do you prefer the raw, unblended intensity of a single cask, or the balanced perfection of a master blender’s touch? Let me know in the comments.
To see my full tasting, watch my YouTube video.
Read the full article at Why This Meikle Tòir PX Single Cask Rivals Octomore But Just Misses The Turbo Crown
