Old Pulteney Pineau des Charentes

Previously featured in Whisky Drop's Enthusiast Club (Spring/Summer 2025)

Part of the new Coastal series, Old Pulteney Pineau des Charentes is bringing a new dimension to its distinctive flavour. The first release is an exceptional limited-edition single malt, further matured in ex-Pineau des Charentes casks.

Though Pulteney is no longer mainland Scotland’s most northerly distillery, its stills remain the country’s oddest. 

Dating from 1825, the stills are said to be similar to those used by smugglers, with the wash still featuring a massive boil bulb (almost as large as the base of the still) and a flat top.

The spirit still has both a purifier pipe and a very convoluted, coiling Lyne arm. This all helps to produce high levels of reflux, which further results in a heavy, leathery and oily product that is balanced with a fragrant, seaside freshness. 

Producer's Tasting Notes

Nose: Fragrant and rich with honey sweetness and vanilla at the base. Intense fruitiness starts jammy and stewed, developing into candied oranges and sticky balsamic raisins. Hints of toasted spices and powder pepper complete this stunning profile.

Palate: Light and creamy mouthfeel with a bit of tartness. Oak spiciness, butterscotch, vanilla, pine nuts and red fruits

Finish: A lingering finish showcases notes of caramelised hazelnuts and ground spices, broadening in sweetness, and then drying ever so slowly towards a savoury finale of coastal minerality.

700 mL

46% ABV