Today, we’re giving you a Port Charlotte 10 review. This is a heavily peated single malt Scotch whisky from the legendary Bruichladdich Distillery on Islay. This distillery has been crafting quality Scotch since the 1800s and has made a name for itself with three distinctive lines: Bruichladdich, Port Charlotte, and Octomore.
Port Charlotte 10, specifically, is matured for ten years and bottled at 100 proof. Thanks to our Discord follower, Asian Elvis, for providing this bottle—you're the real MVP. Let's break it down, from nose to finish, and see how this Islay malt stacks up.
This review is taken from our episode "Mary Poppins / Port Charlotte 10 Year" Click the link to listen to this review in audio format.
The Nose
Bob: Now, this is a heavily peated Scotch. Funny enough, it isn’t as in-your-face smoky as something like Laphroaig 10. It falls somewhere between the meatier, smokier side of the spectrum and the sweeter, butterscotchy notes. While it doesn’t lean toward the saline-heavy elements, I do get a little sherry influence in there.
Brad: You’re right, Bob. The iodine isn’t overwhelming here. There’s a subtle fruitiness, but it’s more understated. Overall, it’s an inoffensive, well-rounded peated nose that doesn’t try to knock you out.
Scores:
- Brad: 8/10
- Bob: 6.5/10
Taste
Bob: Wow, this is really good. It’s a great dinnertime whiskey. It’s darker and less sweet than expected, leaning heavily into medicinal notes without becoming bitter. It’s not fruity or meaty, but it’s complex and robust—reminds me a lot of Lagavulin 16.
Brad: I don’t get that strong medicinal flavor like you do, Bob. To me, there’s some honey right up front, followed by light floral and citrus notes as it develops. It’s lighter than I expected for such a peated Scotch, and I’m really impressed with how it balances.
Scores:
- Brad: 9/10
- Bob: 7.5/10
Finish
Bob: At 100 proof, Port Charlotte 10 brings a nice wave of alcohol warmth without drinking hot. The medicinal notes really shine on the finish and pair well with the alcohol, giving a pleasant hug on the way down.
Brad: I love how this sits on the palate after you swallow. The smoke becomes more savory but never overpowering. It’s a well-structured and complex finish that leaves you wanting another sip.
Scores:
- Brad: 8/10
- Bob: 7/10
Balance
Bob: This is a well-balanced whiskey, even though peated Scotches aren’t typically in my wheelhouse. The nose, palate, and finish all tie together seamlessly, with the smoky and medicinal elements carrying through consistently. It’s not sweet, but it never pretends to be. I’ll go with an 8/10.
Brad: I agree—it’s complex but cohesive. Every element feels intentional and well-crafted. This is one of the most balanced peated Scotches I’ve had. I’m going with 8.5/10.
Value
Brad: At $69.99 here in Ohio, Port Charlotte 10 is a great value for what it delivers. While Scotch tends to be pricier than other categories, this one justifies its price tag with complexity and balance. I’ll give it 8/10.
Bob: I think it’s a bit steep. There are comparable peated Scotches, like Ardbeg 10, that cost less and deliver a similar or better experience. For that reason, I’m landing at 6/10.
Final Scores
Bob: 35/50
Brad: 41.5/50
Average: 38.25/50
Conclusion
With a combined score of 38.25/50, Port Charlotte 10 is a solidly crafted peated Scotch. While Bob finds himself less drawn to peated whiskies, he still appreciates this bottle’s complexity. Brad, on the other hand, considers it one of the best peated Scotches we’ve reviewed this season.
For us, a score of 35/50 means this is a whiskey worth seeking out by the pour at your favorite bar, while a 40/50 or higher signals something worth adding to your collection. Whether you’re a seasoned peat lover or just exploring Islay Scotch for the first time, Port Charlotte 10 delivers a nuanced and balanced experience.
