The Talisker Storm Highball
The Talisker Storm made its debut in 2013, marked as a no-age statement whisky. It underwent maturation in carefully selected refill as well as toasted American oak casks.
Situated on the Isle of Skye in Scotland, the Talisker Single Malt Whisky distillery ventured into a trio of no-age-statement companion whiskies, namely Talisker Skye, Storm, and Port Ruighe, to complement their renowned 10-year-old variant that had garnered widespread acceptance globally. Each edition in the range possesses its own distinct characteristics, and the Storm expression, in particular, showcases the darker and smokier facets, much like the Carbost distillery's flavour profile.
For enthusiasts of island-style whiskies, the Storm offers a bolder and more brooding flavour profile, featuring heightened notes of smoke, peat, and fire compared to the typical Talisker taste. While not reaching peat-monster territory, it exhibits a more intense, Islay-esque character.
This blend of Talisker reveals savoury smoke and brine, accompanied by a subtle hint of black pepper. Beneath these smoky tones, there are unexpectedly bright and sweet aromas, including honeysuckle, honey, apricot, and shortbread cookies. Talisker Storm presents a smooth, oily sensation on the palate, featuring a moderate to light body. The mouthfeel is light and delicately glides over the tongue with a subtle thickness. Derived from the re-charred casks, the palate reveals a persistent smoky flavour complemented by a hint of red chilli peppers and a dryness imparted by the oak. Additionally, a distinctive ashy peat fire subtly persists in the background.
The term 'Highball' has been employed for more than a century to denote a particular type of cocktail, though its precise origins remain somewhat uncertain. The earliest documented use of the term is found in a play called My Friend From India by Ha Du Souchet, written in 1894, where a character named Erastus requests a 'Highball of whiskey' from a bartender.
As per cocktail expert Gary "Gaz" Regan, the term 'Highball' might have its roots in railroad terminology. In the early era of steam trains, it is suggested that a ball indicator connected to a float inside the water tank was used to signal the conductor when there was a sufficient amount of water in the tank to continue.
In the context of trains, the term 'Highball' was associated with signalling readiness for departure. The conductor would use a highball signal, comprising two short whistle blows followed by one long whistle blow. This signalling tradition is believed to have inspired the term for cocktails that featured two shots of liquor and a generous pour of mixer, reflecting the proportions reminiscent of the highball signal used by railroad conductors. Interestingly, in Japan, the Highball has gained widespread popularity and is frequently served at formal gatherings and business meetings.
Ingredients
Method
Pour Talisker Storm whisky into a highball glass with lots of ice.
Top up with soda.
Garnish with an orange peel.
