Tatler Dining+ Talisker
The #SipSlurpShell campaign brings to the forefront an unusual but exceptional way to pair a single malt with a delicious bivalve
The bracing cold climate of Scotland has given rise to some of the world’s sweetest seafood, but also some of the world’s most exceptional whiskies. It is only natural, perhaps, that a pairing such as oysters with single malt would become celebrated around the globe—and spotlighted right here in Hong Kong, where top chef Ricardo Chaneton of Mono has partnered with Talisker to present this ideal match between seafood and spirit.
The newly launched #SipSlurpShell campaign is a carefully considered process of languid enjoyment that highlights the fresh brininess of oysters with the lush maritime notes of Talisker. The four-step process encourages gourmands to first take a sip of Talisker, letting the whisky unfold on the palate; then, you slurp and savour the oyster, allowing its briny sweetness to connect with the lingering notes of Talisker. The next step is to pour a splash of whisky into the shell, where it will mix with the oyster juices, and drink the resulting elixir. The fourth step is optional: a merry cheers with your drinking partner using the shell.
At Mono, chef Chaneton is no stranger to creating masterful pairings inspired by stories of great produce. The chef was invited to taste Talisker whisky to generate an idea of what ingredients would match well with the spirit. Ultimately, Chaneton settled on a classic combination of Brittany Gillardeau no. 2 oyster with leeks, smoked bacon, Talisker whisky foam—the creation was based on the smoky aromas, gentle acidity and notes of oak he tasted in the whisky, which he felt would match with ingredients such as leek. Chaneton even marinates the oyster first in a bit of Talisker before poaching it in boiling water seasoned with salt, star anise, and cardamom to riff off the whisky’s notes of spice. The lightly caramelised bacon is served with the leek ragout, and the cooked oyster is gently placed on top and finally finished with an airy Talker whisky foam, calling to mind ocean spray.
The combination is fitting considering that Talisker is truly a whisky made by the sea; opened in 1830 at the village of Carbost on the shore of Loch Harport, it is the oldest distillery on the Isle of Skye and an integral part of the area’s history and culture. Their iconic single malt is at once rugged, yet defined by characterful sweet peppery smoke, followed luxuriously by soft fruits, spice, and lush green moss. Close your eyes and you will catch hints of the sea, closing the link between drinker and the whisky’s place of origin.
Please enjoy responsibly.