33 open bottles in my collection ranked through multiple blind tastings. Counting them down! #10: Talisker Distiller’s Edition. Single Malt Scotch. 45.8% ABV. D2000/B2011 Paid $72 I was lucky enough to get a second 2011 bottling for $76. I’m afraid I probably won’t see this older vintage again, but it’s not noticeably better than the newer version, which I would be happy to purchase. We are finally in the top 10! The Distiller’s Editions of Diageo’s Classic Malts of Scotland have received mixed reviews. Traditional maturation creates depth and “real” complexity that is diluted when you finish in a second cask. Finishing creates “engineered” complexity that some experts claim they can sniff or taste out. I just know Talisker DE takes a great original Talisker 10, and actually improves it by finishing in Amaroso sherry. The sherry influence has a strong presence, but is well integrated into the traditional Talisker notes of iodine, antiseptic, cloves, (bitter) dried orange peels, and red chilies. The added sweetness of the sherry creates an oilier, more luxurious mouthfeel that the original 10 lacks. This 2011 bottling (brown bottle with brown label) may be a tad more medicinal than the current version. MARK: 91/100 PREVIOUSLY, ON BATMAN: #11: Amrut Fusion. $76. 50%. NAS. 90/100 #12: Springbank. $180. 46%. 18 years. 90/100 #13: Macallan Edition No. 2. $110. 48.2%. NAS. 90/100 #14: Clynelish. $70. 46%. 14 years. 89/100. #15: Four Roses Single Barrel. $52. 50%. NAS. 88/100.