Port Ellen Prism Single Malt x Distillers One of One 2025
The legendary Islay distillery Port Ellen Distillery, commemorating its bicentenary year, has unveiled Port Ellen Prism, a one-off Single Malt Scotch Whisky – its oldest release to date. Distilled in 1978 and patiently matured for 46 years – first in refill hogshead casks, then married in a refill American oak puncheon for over a decade – this one-off expression embodies nearly half a century of time, terroir and pioneering spirit.
Port Ellen Prism Single Malt – art meets spirit
Encased within a mesmerising 1.5-litre bespoke decanter, Port Ellen Prism is presented as the centrepiece of an intricate glass sculpture by award-winning artist Wilfried Grootens. Drawing on his signature technique of layering and painting individual glass panes, Grootens creates a three-dimensional illusion of smoke and light that shifts as you move around it, reflecting the multi-layered depth of the core character of this exceptionally rare single malt.
Commenting on his method of working, Grootens commented:
With delicate brush strokes I paint on single panes that, layered, trimmed and polished, seemingly float in the glass—visualising the smoke within and exploring its depth of flavour.”
The magnum decanter at the heart of Grootens’ creation has been crafted by Radley’s laboratory-grade glassmakers, marrying scientific precision with avant-garde artistry, while reflecting the same dedication to precision and innovation found in every drop of Port Ellen whisky.
The Distillers One of One Auction – an auction with purpose
This unique piece has been donated by Diageo to The Distillers One of One Auction in partnership with Sotheby’s and will go under the hammer at Hopetoun House, Scotland, on 10 October 2025. Pre-sale estimates range from £150,000 to £300,000.
All proceeds will be channelled into The Distillers’ Charity’s Youth Action Fund, which to date has raised £4.3 million for projects supporting disadvantaged young people across Scotland, delivering employability outcomes for over 2,200 individuals since 2022.
Port Ellen Prism Single Malt – tasting notes
- Appearance: Amber gold
- Nose: Layers of flavour emanate from this expression of Port Ellen; embers smoulder, luscious fruit notes coat the palate and hints of subtle spices weave through butterscotch sweetness.
- Body: A full expression with layers of flavour and character
- Palate: Crushed ripened orchard fruits emerge, mingled with succulent notes of berries, cocoa and vanilla pods; layering over smouldering smoke radiating from the core.
- Finish: Hints of glowing embers linger on with subtle spices and luscious, plump berries
In short, a distinctive and unique expression of Port Ellen; smouldering smoke emanating from the core, layered with beautiful and refined fruit aromas elegantly weaving through the expression.
Port Ellen Prism Single Malt – looking ahead
The successful collector who acquires Port Ellen Prism will, alongside three guests, be invited to Islay for an exclusive experience at Port Ellen distillery, including a bespoke ‘Atlas of Smoke’ tour to explore the pioneering experimentation behind this trailblazing whisky.
Port Ellen Prism is the first of two commemorative releases this year, with the second release being announced shortly, giving Port Ellen enthusiasts an opportunity to access a new bottling of this rare whisky.