Whisky Review: Elements Of Islay Bourbon Cask

Editor’s Note: This whisky was provided to us as a review sample by the party behind it. This in no way, per our editorial policies, influenced the final outcome of this review. It should also be noted that by clicking the buy link in this review our site receives a small referral payment which helps to support, but not influence, our editorial and other costs.

Elements of Islay Bourbon Cask is one of three new expressions released by Elixir Distillers to become available to the US market in March of this year. The other expressions within this range include their Elements of Islay Cask Edit and Elements of Islay Sherry Cask. Essentially, these expressions are a re-imagining of Elements of Islay’s core range of blended malt whiskies. Each expression is produced through the use of different elements of maturation, which, according to the brand, are “aimed at curious whisky drinkers who have a desire to experience, taste and explore the unique flavors of Islay.”

Elixir Distillers is a London based independent blender, bottler, and creator of fine spirits. As stated by Oliver Chilton, Elixir Distillers’ Master Blender in a prepared statement, “We’re very excited to present a new, re-imagined core range of whiskies for Elements of Islay. The rich, smoky flavors make this unquestionably elemental and a great start to the Elements of Islay whisky journey. The blend combines fresher, fruitier style of peaty Islay single malt from the north coast with a typical rich and smoky style from Islay’s south coast and has been matured in four different styles of casks to offer a complex but balanced whisky for enthusiasts and people looking to discover the incredible island of Islay.

“We already had an excellent reception in other markets and hope we’ll introduce more US-based drinkers to the joy of Islay whiskies”.  

Bottled at 109 proof, Elements of Islay Bourbon Cask is a blend of single malt from an unspecified south coast Islay distillery along with a fruitier style from an unspecified distillery on the north coast. It is a naturally colored, non-age statement whisky that’s been aged in first fill and refill bourbon barrels and is non-chill filtered.

According to the brand’s tasting notes you can expect rich notes of classic barbeque along with “subtle, zesty flavors.” 

Tasting Notes: Elements of Islay Bourbon Cask 

Vital Stats: 109 proof (54.5% ABV), 750ml MSRP $86. 

Appearance: Pale gold. 

Nose: Peaty smoke hits the nose first, followed by flavor notes of lemon scented wood polish, savory cedar smoke, and hints of vanilla clove.  

Palate: The palate offers spicy, smoky notes of sea salt, a savory hint of Slim Jims, damp bonfire logs, and black pepper notes. 

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