Old Pulteney, affectionately known as the “Maritime Malt,” has long been celebrated for its distinctly coastal character, owing to the distillery’s unique location in the fishing town of Wick on Scotland’s far northern coast. Established in 1826, Old Pulteney has crafted a reputation for producing whiskies that embody the essence of the sea—salty, briny, and robust. Over the years, the distillery has garnered awards and praise for its richly layered, often maritime-influenced single malts. The 35-year-old expression, a limited-edition release, represents the pinnacle of this distillery’s craft, offering an exquisite balance between its characteristic salt-kissed profile and the complexity that comes with decades of careful maturation.

Old Pulteney 35 Years Old Tasting Notes

Average Retail Price: 1,290+ (Limited rare release) 

Appearance
In the glass, the Old Pulteney 35 Years Old presents a striking deep amber hue, reminiscent of antique gold. There’s an undeniable richness to the color, likely owing to the decades spent aging in both American oak and Spanish oak ex-sherry casks. As you swirl the whisky, slow, syrupy legs cling to the glass, oily and full-bodied.

Nose
The nose is an intriguing interplay of coastal freshness and deep, aged complexity.
Right away, there’s a salty sea breeze mixed with orchard fruit. Evolving hints of caramelized toffee and cocoa, an inviting introduction. Noticing deeper notes of dried tropical fruits—mango and pineapple— with a touch of old leather and honeycomb. These richer, fruitier aromas speak to the whisky’s time in sherry casks. There is a soft hint of brine, oak spice, and a subtle nuttiness lingers, rounding out the experience. 

Complexity
There’s no shortage of depth in the nose of Old Pulteney 35 Years Old. Each layer of aroma unfolds gradually, with the maritime influence never overpowering the sweeter, fruitier elements. This whisky offers a beautifully balanced olfactory experience that promises complexity without losing coherence.

Palate
On the palate, the whisky is rich, smooth, and immediately warming. The initial flavors are sweet and decadent—think dark honey, crème brûlée, and juicy sultanas—underpinned by a gentle saltiness.
Development: A savory, spicy character comes into play. Notes of oak spice, cinnamon, and dried citrus peel emerge, adding warmth and complexity. There’s also a subtle smokiness—just a wisp, like distant peat smoke carried on a breeze. Complexity: The balance here is exceptional. The whisky transitions seamlessly from sweet to savory, from fruity to spicy, with each sip revealing more depth. There’s a richness to the mouthfeel that speaks to its age, but it retains a vibrant, lively edge, making it endlessly intriguing.

Finish
The finish is long and lingering, leaving behind flavors of salted caramel, toasted nuts, and a faint echo of oak and ash. Sit back and savor the moment; enjoy the full-body interplay of sweetness and saltiness.

Overall Impression

Old Pulteney 35 Years Old is an elegant and luxurious whisky showcasing the complexity that comes with age. The marriage of sea-salt freshness with rich, sherried sweetness is masterfully executed, creating a dram that’s as complex as it is approachable. This is a whisky that tells a story with every sip—a story of windswept shores, sun-soaked fruit, and decades of patient maturation.

Conclusion

If you’re a fan of fine whiskies with depth and character, the Old Pulteney 35 Years Old is a luxurious experience for those who can appreciate the nuances. If you come across a bottle, expect to pay a premium, as this is a very rare release of a well-aged single malt.

Share your thoughts on Old Pulteney 35 Years Old—drop a comment below, and let’s chat whisky.