Glenfiddich Grand Cru 23 Year Old, with an ABV of 40%, presents an exclusive and extraordinary expression from the Glenfiddich Distillery. This remarkable whisky is meticulously aged for 23 years in American and European oak casks before embarking on a finishing journey in rare French Cuvee casks. The result is an elegant single malt Scotch whisky that harmoniously melds the finest elements from Scotland and France, creating an unparalleled drinking experience.
Tasting Note by Glenfiddich:Nose: Apple blossom, freshly baked bread and candied lemon.Palate: Layers of rich vanilla oak, sweet brioche, sandalwood, pear sorbet and white grape.Finish: Long, opulent and sweet.
Glenfiddich 21 Year Old is a masterpiece that undergoes a meticulous maturation process. Initially aged in oak barrels for 21 years, this whisky is then treated to a finishing period in hand-selected Caribbean rum casks, lasting up to four months. This precise method yields an exquisite Speyside whisky, bursting with intricate, warming, and vibrant flavours.This Glenfiddich 21 Year Old Gran Reserva comes with a bespoke Glenfiddich leather tag by Aspinal of London, offering a stylish accessory that complements the whisky’s rich and intricate flavour profile.
Tasting Note by Glenfiddich:Nose: Intense and vanilla sweet. Floral, hints of banana, figs, rich toffee, new leather and oak.Palate: Initially soft, then brisk, vibrant and drying, peppery, a touch of smoke, oak, lime, ginger and spices.Finish: Very long, warming, dry and spicy.
Yamazaki 12 Year Old is the quintessential offering from Japan's premier whisky producer, Suntory. Distilled in the serene town of Yamazaki, just outside Kyoto, it embodies the spiritual heart of Japanese whisky production. This expression, a harmonious blend from six casks of varying ages, places a spotlight on the influence of rich and fruity Bordeaux Casks and American Oak, offering a captivating and intricate tasting experience.
Tasting Note by Suntory:Nose: Peach, pineapple, grapefruit, clove, candied orange, vanilla, Mizunara (Japanese oak).Palate: Coconut, cranberry, butter.Finish: Sweet ginger, cinnamon, long finish.
The original 'extra-old' cognac, initially bottled in 1870 by Maurice Hennessy for exclusive distribution among family and close friends. Distinguished by its darker hue and significantly greater complexity in comparison to the VSOP, it offers alluring notes of leather and tobacco, complemented by a hint of spice—making it a splendid choice for pairing with cigars.
Tasting Note by Hennessy:Nose: The aromatic profile unfolds with a lavish and fruit-forward palate, showcasing the presence of luscious prunes, Corinth raisins, and delectable sticky toffee pudding.Palate: On the palate, the experience deepens with the indulgence of dark chocolate and the luxurious essence of over-ripe plums. A subtle character of sultanas, accompanied by the smoothness of cocoa butter and a hint of spice, adds layers of complexity and richness.Finish: The finish is characterized by a spirited, vanilla-led finale, accompanied by an array of tantalizing dark fruits. The combination of spices and the lingering presence of these fruits creates a memorable and satisfying conclusion to the tasting experience.
Hakushu is the second Single Malt distillery brought to life by Japan's pioneering and highly acclaimed whisky producer, Suntory. Drawing inspiration from the pristine forests of Japan, Suntory dedicated 200 acres of natural sanctuary to craft the exquisite Hakushu Single Malt. Nestled in the mountainous region to the northwest of Tokyo, Hakushu Single Malt is characterized by its lively and grassy flavor profile, with a subtle hint of smoky peat. Every facet of Suntory's whisky production adheres to the principles of Japanese authenticity, influenced by the traditions of Scottish malts and executed with unwavering Japanese precision and craftsmanship.
Tasting Note by Suntory:Nose: Basil, pine needle, green apple.Palate: Sweet pear, mint, kiwi.Finish: Green tea, subtle smoke.
This 18 Year Old Single Malt has garnered numerous prestigious awards, a testament evident once you savor its exquisite flavors. The whisky's rich mahogany hue reveals its exclusive sherry cask aging, while the subtle hint of salt on the palate serves as a poignant reminder of their coastal setting.
Situated adjacent to the shoreline and benefiting from a bay nourished by the Sound of Islay, the pervasive influence of the salty sea breeze is inescapable, particularly during the 18 year maturation process.
Tasting Note by Bunnahabhain:Nose: Fragrant with notes of dried fruit, rich honeyed nuts, toffee and slight hints of spice.Palate: Notes of mellow sherried nuts, dried fruit and rich oak, with toffee and a slight tang of salt from its maturation of 18yrs at the coast.Finish: A dry fruit finish with a hint of spice and salt.
The Macallan Rare Cask is truly an extraordinary whisky. It is meticulously crafted from the finest and rarest sherry seasoned oak casks, a testament to the expertise and dedication of The Macallan Whisky Mastery Team. Their passion and creativity shine through as they unearth these exceptional casks, resulting in a whisky of unparalleled quality. The deep ruby mahogany color of Rare Cask is just the beginning of its allure.
Tasting Note by Macallan:Nose: Soft notes of vanilla with rich raisin, followed by a sweet fusion of fresh apple, lemon and orange.Palate: An intense sweet raisin dominates before giving way to vanilla and dark chocolate, with layers of light citrus zest.Finish: Long, rich and velvety.
Glengoyne 21 Year Old, a recipient of the prestigious Double Gold Medal at the 2018 San Francisco Competition. This exceptional whisky is matured solely in carefully chosen sherry casks for two decades. Whether enjoyed after dinner or at any moment, it boasts an ABV of 43%.
Tasting Note by Glengoyne:Nose: Red apples, spicy strudel, toffee, sherry and dried fruits. Christmas cake in a glass.Palate: Lots of Sherry, honey, oak with a developing aromatic sensation. Ends with a heavenly cinnamon nip.Finish: Long, sherry, spicy, warm and dry.
The Balvenie PortWood 21 Year Old single malt whisky is a result of a unique process where a blend of rare Balvenie whiskies is transferred to port casks, often referred to as pipes, that have previously cradled fine port wines.
In this stage, The Balvenie Malt Master David C. Stewart MBE regularly samples the whisky to ensure just the right amount of character is infused by the port casks. This process enhances and matures the single malt while preserving its original characteristics.
Regarded by many as David's magnum opus, this whisky stands as one of his most cherished achievements, having garnered numerous prestigious industry awards since its debut in 1996.
Tasting Note by Balvenie:Nose: A perfume of fruity and ripe raisin notes, backed by a nutty dryness.Palate: Refined with remarkable character, it is creamy and silky with fruit, honey and spice notes.Finish: Long, gentle, nutty.
Inspired by Ian Millar's interest in peat following his visit to Islay, The Balvenie's "Week of Peat" epitomises 17 years of meticulous monitoring to harmonise peat perfectly with the distillery's signature flavours of honey, vanilla, and citrus, enriched with a subtle smokiness. This expression is part of "The Balvenie Stories," a trio of limited-edition whiskies that encapsulate tales of craftsmanship and tradition, emphasising the distillery's commitment to age-old, hands-on methods and storytelling through each unique batch of single malt, made from home-grown barley.
Tasting Note by Balvenie:Nose: Subtle peat smoke, heather, orange peel and light tropical fruit, with light butterscotch and sweet vanilla.Palate: Velvety and round to taste with the peat smoke balancing citrus flavours, oaky vanilla and blossom honey.Finish: Gently smoke with a lingering and creamy vanilla sweetness.
Introducing The GlenDronach Parliament, aged for a minimum of 21 years. This exceptional single malt is matured in a blend of the finest Oloroso and Pedro Ximenez sherry casks and is bottled at 48% ABV. Continuing the esteemed GlenDronach tradition, it delivers an intense, fruit-laden character. This rich expression is aptly named 'Parliament' in homage to the colony of rooks that have nested in the trees overlooking the GlenDronach distillery for nearly two centuries.
Tasting Note by GlenDronach:Nose: A delicate mix of ripe autumnal fruits - notably blackberries and red plums. Rich Oloroso sherry and candied orange segments. Spiced oatmeal biscuits and toasted oak fragrances bring excellent weight and balance.Palate: Resolute flavours of fine Oloroso sherry and bitter chocolate sauce, which has been spread liberally over homemade plum pudding. This is all infused with fabulous spicy notes - cinnamon, allspice and nutmeg. Full bodied with smooth tannins.Finish: Long and lingering.
The Aberfeldy 21 Year Old stands as a testament to time and craftsmanship. This single malt scotch whisky unveils a bouquet of floral heather honey, enveloped in a creamy intensity punctuated by notes of dried fruits and toasted coconut. Representing the pinnacle of Aberfeldy's portfolio, it is curated from an exclusive set of casks that have been patiently aged for 21 years or more. The meticulous blend of re-fill and re-char casks harmoniously intertwines with the opulence of Sherry casks and the enticing vanilla nuances of Bourbon casks, offering a symphony of flavors to the discerning whisky enthusiast.
Tasting Note by Aberfeldy: Creamy macadamia nuts and chewy beeswax swarm the palate. Plush with orange, dried fruits, toasted coconut, silky oak and a trace of smoke.
Upon taking ownership of GlenAllachie, Master Distiller Billy Walker quickly made his mark by choosing Scottish barley, implementing a 160-hour fermentation, and overseeing a slow distillation process. With five decades of blending expertise, Billy's true mastery is evident in the distillery's 16 warehouses, which include casks from the 1970s. He handpicked a limited number of casks for the GlenAllachie 18 Year Old, which embodies the brand's rich and robust character with delicate notes of heather and butterscotch. This opulent Scotch whisky, refined in high-quality oak casks for 18 years, is presented at 46% ABV, unfiltered for chill, and retains its natural colour, exemplifying GlenAllachie's commitment to perfection.
Tasting Note by GlenAllachie:Nose: Toffee sauce, cinnamon spice and fresh vanilla pods, with attributes of cocoa, honeycomb and cherries.Palate: Bursts of marzipan, sultanas and rich dark chocolate, leading to wild honey, maraschino cherries and buttercream.
Rémy Martin XO stands as the signature cognac of their Cellar Master, who skillfully merges hundreds of eaux-de-vie. Through the Cellar Master's expertise in blending, the full aromatic depth of this XO Cognac Fine Champagne is revealed.
Tasting Note by Remy Martin:Nose: Exceptionally smooth with a powerful yet understated aroma. An explosion offragrances delights the olfactory senses.Palate: Opulent by its taste, XO reveal its aromas progressively throughout the tasting.Starting with plum, mature fig and candied orange to spicy notes with a hint of cinnamonand freshly crushed hazelnuts, finishing on gourmet notes of roasted cocoa beans,honey and ginger.
The SC: 01 2012 vintage was exclusively conceived, cultivated, distilled, aged, and bottled on Islay. The barley used for this vintage was harvested in 2011 and supplied by seven local farmers, all situated within a 10-mile radius of the distillery. Showcasing the unique Islay terroir, this locally-sourced barley is enriched with a detailed cask formulation.
The barley is malted to a peat level of 40ppm by maltsters on the Scottish mainland. Afterward, it's brought back to Islay for distillation. Using tall, slender-necked stills, the distillation process aims for the utmost elegance and delicacy. The spirit then embarks on a tripartite maturation journey.
This vintage is a fusion of sherry butts, first and second fill American whiskey barrels, which were transferred at varying maturation stages into some of the premier Sauternes wine casks sourced from the left bank of the Garonne River in Bordeaux.
Tasting Note by Bruichladdich:Nose: Sweet, stone fruit and a delicate floral perfume on the nose with hints of peaches in syrup, dried apricots, honeyed melon and ripe pineapple. Brown sugar, vanilla-fudge, caramel and marzipan are followed by heady notes of honeysuckle and heather. Peat smoke and warm toasted oak come through with a little time to bring depth and complexity to the dram.Palate: The warmth and supple texture of this dram elegantly coats the palate and brings a balance of light peat smoke and ripe fruit. Another sip confirms both the beautiful viscosity and depth of flavour, as beneath the delicate smoke comes earthy notes of leather and boot polish. The oak brings strength and sweet vanilla, chocolate and citrus to complement the waves of fruit.Finish: A dram you wish would last forever, the wonderful marine notes and earthy peat smoke linger on the palate with a citrus tang.
Tears of Llorona, Extra Añejo Tequila, is a top-rated spirit with a score of 98/100 from the Beverage Testing Institute (BTI). Crafted by renowned Master Distiller Germán González, this premium Tequila is aged for five years in a blend of Scotch, Sherry, and brandy barrels. This meticulous ageing process results in a richly layered and sophisticated Tequila, celebrated for its exceptional quality and craftsmanship. Combining tradition with innovation, Tears of Llorona stands out as a testament to the evolution of Tequila, offering a unique and ultra-premium experience.
Tasting Note by Tears of Llaorna:Nose: The rich amber colour, the lingering aroma, the sensation of the legs on the glass, the ensuing talk, and of course, the wonderful flavour.Palate: Black cherries, vanilla, honeysuckle, and apples are all present in the bouquet, which gives way to flavours of chocolate, toffee, and crème brûlée on the palate.Finish: Finish is spicy and elegant, with notes of cinnamon and cloves balanced by sweeter touches of raisins, caramel and oak.
As the final ever single malt release crafted by Dhavall Gandhi as part of the Whiskymaker's Edition, the Galaxia can be perfectly described as a 'harmonious symphony and surrender to a dance of light and darkness'. Combining some of the best characteristics of previous editions, the Galaxia boasts the aromatic spices as seen in the Infinity and Odyssey, the stewed fruits of Revelation and the creamy vanilla of Iris and Milky Way. It is the perfect fusion of almost all editions that came before it.Each bottle of this exceptional whisky comes with a complimentary The Lakes Rocking Glass.
Tasting Note by The Lakes Distillery:Aromatic oriental spices, floral perfume, stone and stewed fruits, vanilla cream.
Tamdhu 18 Year Old expression is a testament to their commitment to Oloroso Seasoned Sherry Casks. With an exclusive maturation process in these exceptional casks sourced from Spain, this limited release bears a rich, deep copper hue derived solely from the wood, showcasing over a decade and a half of dedication to crafting a magnificent Speyside Single Malt. The un-chillfiltered bottling preserves the whisky's complex flavor profile, making it a must-try for sherry wood connoisseurs seeking a rich and distinctive dram.
Tasting note by Tamdhu:Nose: Dry nutty sherry, cherry, milk chocolate, rum raisin, citrus, baked oats and plum.Palate: Sherry notes are rich, complex and mouthcoating with vanilla, brown sugar, red apple and dried fruits.Finish: Long and warming, dried apricot and dates, soft spice and stewed apple.
Royal Brackla 18 Year Old Single Malt is matured in American oak and finished in the finest Palo Cortado sherry casks, it attains a rich and opulent flavour profile, embodying the essence of Royal Brackla's heritage and commitment to quality.
Tasting Note by Royal Brackla:Rich spices, creamy vanilla, big, succulent soft fruits and cocoa powder, brightened with a zing of citrus.
The Balvenie French Oak stands as a vibrant single malt whisky that has undergone a finishing period in casks previously cradling wine sourced from the renowned French Charentes vineyards.
Pineau des Charentes, a fortified wine, is crafted by blending unfermented grape juice with Cognac eau-de-vie, followed by a maturation process. This distinctive wine is also crafted as a homemade product in the neighboring Deau-Sevres and Vendee regions.
The inspiration for this exploration into French Oak casks came from a suggestion by The Balvenie USA brand ambassador, Lorne Cousin. He urged Malt Master David C. Stewart MBE to consider these casks after a visit to the region with his family, where he fondly remembered savoring an aperitif.
This release marks The Balvenie's initial foray into the realm of French Oak. Pineau, resembling Cognac both in production and flavor, allows them to leverage the growing popularity of this flavor profile, complemented by its premium standing.
Tasting Note by Balvenie:Nose: Beautifully balanced light floral notes from lotus and geranium flowers dance between hints of fresh meadow grass and pealed apple skin.Palate: An energising zing from tangy lemon rind and grapefruit meet the delicate subtle sweetness of glazed fruits and spice from root ginger.Finish: Refreshingly concise.
The fourth release in the Hebridean Series, matured for 26 years, offers a balanced profile of spice and sweetness, with vanilla, toffee, cinnamon pastries, and toasted malt notes. Bottled at 49.2% ABV, it stands apart from earlier releases in the series. Master Blender Julieann Fernandez notes that, unlike the fruity, floral character of younger expressions, this release features a darker, heavier sweetness with woodsmoke, caramelised sugar, and treacle toffee—an unexpected result from uncharred González Byass Oloroso Sherry casks.Tasting Notes by Tobermory:Nose: A burst of dark brown sugar fades to reveal fresh strawberries, vanilla fudge, candied ginger and dried sultanas.Palate: A perfect balance of spicy and sweet; vanilla, toffee, walnuts and freshly baked cinnamon pastries intertwined with gentle oak and toasted malt.Finish: Lingering woody finish with notes of chocolate covered hazelnuts.
Royal Brackla 21 Year Old Whisky is a whisky of bold nobility, reflecting the distillery's opulent and fruity style that has long been cherished by a select few. This 21 year old single malt, hailing from the Royal Brackla distillery, is finished in a combination of the finest Oloroso, Palo Cortado, and Pedro Ximenez sherry casks, culminating in a rich and opulent finish.
Tasting Note by Royal Brackla:Syrupy toffee notes, with richly fragrant summer berries warmed by the sun and dusted in cinnamon and muscovado sugar.
The Glenmorangie Infinita 18 Year Old encapsulates a kaleidoscope of tastes and aromas, showcasing the imagination of Dr. Bill Lumsden, Glenmorangie’s acclaimed whisky maker. Distilled from silky, fruity spirit in their iconic giraffe-high stills, it matures for 15 years in American oak casks before spending three additional years in Oloroso sherry casks. This creates a whisky of warm, harmonious balance with honey, fig, caramelised orange, jasmine, lemon blossom, and a subtle hint of campfire smoke, making each sip a new and wondrous experience.
Tasting Note by Glenmorangie:Nose: Rich, rounded and sweet with dried fruit and a complex floral fragrance.Palate: A balance between honey, malt and flowery notes. Rich figs and dates emerge with a hint of wood smoke in the background.Finish: Long and enticing with the sweetness of dried fruit and subtle dryness of Oloroso nuttiness.
The creation of Signet begins with the distillery's rare and precious chocolate malt spirit, a spirit distilled only once a year in their iconic giraffe-high stills. This spirit possesses an intense, espresso-like character, filling the distillery with aromas reminiscent of an Italian coffee bar.
Over the years, the distillery expertly tempers this powerful spirit by aging it in rare and treasured casks. Bourbon casks contribute creaminess, sherry casks impart sweetness, and the spice of virgin charred oak adds depth. This intricate dance of flavors is further enriched by the inclusion of some of the oldest whisky in their collection.
The result is a velvety explosion of flavors, characterized by bursts of bitter mocha, sizzling spice, and enveloping waves of dark chocolate, all elegantly mellowed by the presence of smooth butterscotch. Signet is a testament to the distillery's mastery in crafting an exceptional and harmonious whisky.
Tasting Note by Glenmorangie:Nose: Citrus and ripening peaches are balanced by vanilla softness.Palate: Vanilla emerges, then gives way to a burst of flowery fruitiness.Finish: A clean and salving aftertaste with hints of orange and peach.
With just 311 bottles being bottled in the new 2024 rebranding, the GlenAllachie 2010 13 Year Old Madeira Hogshead is a UK exclusive, meticulously selected by Master Distiller Billy Walker. Bottled at cask strength, its intense character is a testament to its aging process, enriched by the unique nuances of Madeira wood.
Tasting Note by GlenAllachie:Nose: Brandy butter, honeycomb, orchard fruits and butterscotch, with hints of orange blossom, hazelnut and caramelised brown sugar.Palate: Heather honey, orange peel and burnt caramel, followed by waves of cinnamon, butterscotch and stewed orchard fruits, with a nutty bouquet on the finish.
Octomore 13.3, distilled from Islay-grown barley, is a quintessential example of the rich flavours characteristic of this Scottish island. Matured in first-fill ex-American whiskey barrels and second-fill European oak casks from Rivesaltes, France, and Ribera del Duero, Spain, it offers a unique complexity. Each batch reflects the distinct Islay terroir, influenced by varying climate and agronomic factors.
Tasting Note by Bruichladdich:Nose: Aromas of malt sugar and gentle peat smoke lead you into the dram. Layer of fresh green fruit come next followed by rose, geranium, apricot and eucalyptus. Marzipan, ginger, nut biscuits, and honeyed melon can also come through with the malty fruity character coming to the fore with a little time. Adding a drop of water will bring out the peat smoke beautifully. Palate: A soft and delicate on the palate, sweet honey and brown sugar give way to a whisper of peat smoke. The second sip brings lemon rind and seashells, a delicate marine hint along with malty biscuit notes and marzipan and coconut. The peat smoke has hints of boots polish and ash but is gentle enough to allow the subtle floral malty notes to shine.Finish: The marine character develops and the smoke increases on the palate, honey and lemon with warm sand and marzipan. Final fruity traces of peach and stewed pears bring a little sweetness to the finish.
Six distinct cask finishes, including small batch Bourbon casks, Matusalem Oloroso Sherry casks, Madeira casks, Marsala casks, Port pipes, and Cabernet Sauvignon wine barriques, are artfully combined to create an unparalleled whisky with a captivating and rich flavor profile.
Tasting Note by Dalmore:Nose: Red berry fruits and hints of passion fruit.Palate: Citrus zest, vanilla pod, crème caramel and crushed almonds.Finish: Cinnamon, nutmeg and ginger.
The single malt selected for this special release was distilled in 2006 and initially matured in exceptional ex-bourbon American oak casks stored in Glencadam's historic dunnage warehouses. Afterward, the single malt was expertly blended and further matured in Pedro Ximénez Sherry quarter casks from Andalucía, Spain, which added distinct flavours, enriching the complexity of the Glencadam Single Malt. Bottled at a robust 46% alc/vol, maintaining its natural colour and avoiding chill filtration, this limited release consists of only 4,188 bottles, each bearing its individual number.
Tasting Note by Glencadam:Nose: Indulgent aromas of sticky toffee pudding, black cherries, salted caramel and maple syrup mingled with dark berry fruits and cocoa powder.Palate: Rich layers of Black Forest gateaux, blackcurrant liquorice, cappuccino and crème caramel married with dates, prunes and sweet spices.Finish: Chocolate cherry liqueurs, frangipane tarts and golden raisins fading into espresso coffee and cosy cake spices.
Craigellachie 23 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky embodies a bold, old-fashioned style, offering a robust and muscular profile. Distinct Speyside sweetness is complemented by fresh tropical notes, citrus, and toasted oak. Vanilla and spicy cinnamon develop alongside a unique zing of menthol and smoky pineapple over a campfire. This whisky is matured in a combination of first-fill sherry and bourbon casks, which contribute layers of richness and complexity. Non-chill filtered and free of added caramel coloring, it is bottled at 46% ABV, showcasing its unapologetically distinct character.
Tasting Note by Craigellachie:Vanilla, toffee and fudge notes, robust and muscular in flavour with a hint of pineapple.
This limited edition Aberfeldy 21 Year Old, distilled on November 14, 2001, spent over 20 years maturing in re-fill barrels and hogsheads. The whisky was then finished for approximately eight months in French Oak casks from Finca Ambrosía, a single estate winery in Argentina. This finishing process adds a layer of Malbec influence, with flavours of blackberry, plum, and black cherry complementing Aberfeldy’s characteristic notes.
This limited release is accompanied by a bottle of Finca Ambrosía Viña Unica Malbec 2022, providing an opportunity to explore the connection between the whisky and the wine that inspired its final aging.
Tasting Note by Aberfeldy: Creamy macadamia nuts and chewy beeswax swarm the palate. Plush with orange, dried fruits, toasted coconut, silky oak and a trace of smoke.
The Dalmore 15 Year Old is a full-bodied Highland whisky, matured in American white oak ex-Bourbon barrels and finished with hand-selected Matusalem sherry casks and Graham’s 10 year old Tawny Port pipes. This expression offers a rich and fruity character, featuring notes of figs, cherries, and fresh citrus, complemented by hints of chestnuts and ginger cake. Its complexity showcases the traditional craftsmanship of Dalmore.
Tasting Note by Dalmore:Nose: Whispers of Manuka honey, dark plum and cracked black pepper, and hints of clove.Palate: Morello cherries and dates, elevated with notes of candied Seville orange, fresh figs and light cacao.Finish: Rich plum complemented by moist ginger cake, roast chestnut, and soft wood spice.
Matured entirely in Oloroso sherry casks, this whisky is a perfect choice for after-dinner indulgence. Its rich and full-bodied character makes it akin to a dessert in itself, and its lingering finish seems to go on forever.
Tasting Note by Glenfarclas:Nose: Complex, yet refined, with tempting aromas of marmalade, honey freshly ground coffee, sherry and nuts. Some oaky tannins.Palate: Full - bodied and robust, the sherry and the oak fight for your attention yet neither overpowering.Finish: Intense, long lasting, dry and malty. A beautiful dark chocolate taste at the back of your mouth to complete the 25 year old.
The 13th batch of Bruichladdich's Octomore series introduces the 13.1 edition, a distinctly smoky whisky peated to exceptional levels. Distilled at Bruichladdich on Islay in 2016, this heavily-peated expression has matured for nearly five years in first-fill American oak casks, and then further aged in additional first-fill American oak barrels in 2021. Peated to an impressive 137.3, it's bottled at its natural cask strength of 59.2% ABV in 2022. This double maturation in first-fill American oak lends the whisky a unique profile of robust earthy smoke combined with rich tropical nuances. Octomore 13.1, known for its intense smokiness, comes encased in the range's iconic black tin, embodying its bold and complex nature.Tasting Note by Bruichladdich:Nose: Initial impressions are of sweet nutty smoke, loaded with barley sugar and ripe fruit. Syrupy apricot and ripe pear along with malty vanilla notes of barley flour and Crème Brulee, honey and tablet. The American oak brings coconut, almonds and charred oak. The peat smoke is delicate but powerful and, along with the charred oak, brings out boot polish, leather and earthy notes.
Palate: A viscous texture across the palate, the feeling is of densely smoked grain which comes through like smoked granola with honeyed fruit. A second sip brings the opportunity to decipher the complexity on the palate, with smoked apricot jam, barley flour, peat embers and burnt heather balanced with gooseberry citrus and sweet Turkish delight. Oak chips, sugared almonds and chocolate-limes with spicy aniseed comes toward the finish. A drop of water intensifies the smoke and brings out the minerality of the whisky.Finish: On the finish the sweetness fades and an earthy, mossy note remains on the palate wrapped in dry heathery peat smoke. Salty-citrus and floral notes of geranium and rose come through calmly to round off another wonderful expression of the Octomore paradox.
This limited edition gift pack celebrates the rich heritage of Glenfarclas, featuring a 70cl bottle of the 25 Year Old, a whisky renowned for its full-bodied character and complex flavours, all matured in Oloroso sherry casks. The set also includes three Glencairn glasses and a Glencairn water jug, providing an ideal way to enjoy this distinguished spirit.
Tasting Note by Glenfarclas:Nose: Complex, yet refined, with tempting aromas of marmalade, honey freshly ground coffee, sherry and nuts. Some oaky tannins.Palate: Full - bodied and robust, the sherry and the oak fight for your attention yet neither overpowering.Finish: Intense, long lasting, dry and malty. A beautiful dark chocolate taste at the back of your mouth to complete the 25 year old.
This limited edition whisky is a true masterpiece, created in collaboration with renowned pastry chef Jordi Roca of the three Michelin-starred restaurant El Celler de Can Roca. Together, they have crafted a whisky that brings together the worlds of chocolate and whisky in perfect harmony. Embark on a journey like no other as Macallan Whisky Maker Polly Logan ventures to Girona, Spain, to immerse herself in the captivating world of chocolate. Exploring the chocolate-making process at Casa Cacao, she uncovers the distinctive flavor profiles that make this whisky truly exceptional.
Tasting Note by Macallan:Nose: Chocolate fondant, honey, oak, zesty lime and ginger.Palate: Dark chocolate, honey, dates, vanilla and cinnamon.Finish: Long with rich chocolate.
An ideal companion for the finest cigars, this exquisite Highland Single Malt undergoes maturation in American white oak ex-Bourbon casks, Cabernet Sauvignon barriques, and Matusalem Oloroso Sherry Casks. These exceptional casks are exclusively reserved for The Dalmore's whisky makers, resulting in a truly exceptional and exclusive whisky.
Tasting Note by Dalmore:Nose: Cinnamon, vanilla and red fruits.Palate: Tropical fruits, banana toffee and vanilla ice cream.Finish: Orange zest, dark chocolate and crushed spices.
What sets this whisky apart is its meticulous craftsmanship and the added luxury of spending over nine years finishing in first fill Oloroso sherry oak casks. This unique aging process imparts a flavor profile that harks back to vintage bottlings from decades past, offering a truly nostalgic experience for whisky enthusiasts.
Tasting Note by Wilson & Morgan:Nose: Nutty with hints of red sweet desert wine, pears and red apples, with crushed almond giving a sweet marzipan note, sweet spices and hints of candied orange and a touch of dark chocolate, with a soft sherry note running through the aroma. Palate: Very rich and taste forward, lots of smooth and spice notes running side by side to deliver a nice balance to the front of the palate, Spices and roasted chestnuts, some waxiness coating the mid palate, apples skins dates, cinnamon and honey, this is a great tasting dram that is more rich than overly sweet.
Matured exclusively in a select bourbon barrel, this expression boasts a remarkable balance between oak and vanilla. A rare single cask release, and rested for 24 years, nothing showcases well-roundedness and finesse quite like this release.
Tasting Notes:Nose: Vanilla crème brulee, honeyed pear, and a hint of toasted oak with subtle citrus zest.Palate: Rich and creamy with notes of caramelized toffee, spiced apple, and a touch of butterscotch, evolving into a delicate wave of citrus and warming spices.Finish: Long and smooth, featuring lingering notes of vanilla and a whisper of oak spice.
A single cask release, aged for 14 years and finished in a Bordeaux wine barrique. Bottled at 60% ABV, it boasts notes of ripe red berries, dark chocolate, and subtle spices, followed by a long, satisfying finish of oak and sweet grapes. With only 261 bottles available, this unique Highland expression is a must-try for whisky lovers.
Tasting Note:Nose: Morello cherries, fresh baked cinnamon rolls, and ginger biscuits.Palate: Jammy red berries, Biscoff cookies, and toasted oak.Finish: Long, chocolate-y, followed by black coffee notes.
This award-winning XO Cognac hails from a distinguished yet lesser-known house in the world of fine spirits. It represents a masterful blend of eaux-de-vies, with a significant portion exceeding the minimum age requirement for XO classification. Despite its low profile, this exceptional Cognac stands as a testament to the house's commitment to quality and craftsmanship, offering connoisseurs a taste of the extraordinary.
Tasting Note by Louis Royer:Nose: A lovely twirl of apricots, plums, peaches, oak, leather and tobacco on the nose.Palate: Sweet intro followed by a farrago of dark fruits, oak and tobacco.Finish: Rich, soft and warm lingering finish.
This Macallan 20 Year Old, from Gordon & MacPhail’s esteemed Connoisseurs Choice range, was distilled in 2004 and matured in a first-fill sherry hogshead, resulting in a limited outturn of just 336 bottles. Bottled at a robust 60.5% cask strength, it showcases Gordon & MacPhail’s 125-year legacy of matching spirit to oak with exceptional precision, offering a rare glimpse into the rich character of Macallan single malt.
Tasting Note by Gordon & MacPhail: Nose: Morello cherry aromas with autumnal spice and citrus zest.Palate: Spicy on the palate with black pepper, stewed fruit and toasted almonds.Finish: The finish has mature oak and medjool dates.
Highland Park doesn't always take the easy route when it comes to making whisky. For Triskelion, they decided to involve not just one, but three legendary Highland Park Whisky Makers – Gordon Motion, Max McFarlane, and John Ramsay. Together, they embarked on a journey to delve into the intricate influence of wood and cask seasoning on their whisky.
These three Master Whisky Makers meticulously hand-selected and blended three primary cask types: first-fill sherry seasoned Spanish oak butts, first-fill sherry seasoned American oak casks, and ex-bourbon barrels and hogsheads. To achieve a balanced and harmonious flavor profile, a small number of refill casks were also added to the mix, contributing a touch of softness to the final single malt whisky. Triskelion represents the collective expertise of these three whisky visionaries in exploring the nuances of cask maturation.
Tasting Note by Highland Park:Palate: Seville oranges | Sultanas and raisins | Sweet apricots | Heather honey | Crushed coriander seeds | Aromatic peat smoke.
A mixture of malts from Highland and Speyside along with grain whisky from the Lowlands, aged in both American and European oak barrels, imparts a robust taste reminiscent of Scotland's rugged Moorlands to this whisky. Its complexity is deepened by a finishing process in Oloroso Sherry casks, adding layers of character.
Tasting Note by Wildmoor:An epic landscape of rich oak, deep vanilla and mellow sherry spice, inspired by Scotland’s wind swept moorlands.
Benromach 21 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky is a highly regarded expression that has been aged for a remarkable 21 years. With an ABV of 43%, it represents the pinnacle of Benromach's dedication to crafting exceptional whisky. This whisky is exclusively matured in first-fill bourbon and sherry casks, which contribute to its rich and complex flavor profile.
Tasting Note by Benromach:Nose: Sweet Sherry aromas with underlying citrus, ginger and oak notes, accompanied by a touch of smoke.Palate: Sweet initially with cracked black pepper, Seville orange and raspberry flavours lead to baked apple and subtle spice.Finish: Charred oak and soft smoke.
The whisky's maturation journey begins in a harmonious blend of ex-Bourbon and ex-Sherry casks. After this initial aging period, 50% of the blend embarks on an additional refinement in first-fill Sherry casks, while the remaining whisky matures in first-fill Bourbon casks.
In keeping with their unwavering commitment to quality, all Craigellachie expressions remain unaltered by chill filtration or caramel colouring and are bottled with a respectable 46% ABV. For those seeking an authentic and exceptional whisky experience, the Craigellachie 17 Year Old is a true testament to the artistry of whisky craftsmanship.
Distilled in 2005 and bottled in October 2022, the #2788 Single Cask expression has spent 17 years in port pipes. At 59% ABV, it offers a robust experience with notes of stewed fruit, strawberries, ginger, oak, and milk chocolate. With only 390 bottles available, this limited edition expression is a rare find for whisky enthusiasts.
Tasting Note:Nose: Opens with a rich blend of stewed fruits and ripe strawberries, complemented by hints of ginger and subtle oak.Palate: Dark fruits, milk chocolate, and a touch of spice from the ginger. The oak influence is present but well-balanced, adding depth without overpowering the sweetness.Finish: Long and satisfying, with lingering notes of sweet grapes and a gentle, warming spice.
According to their legend, an extraordinary event unfolded when the King of Islay was reborn on a remarkable day. A brilliant spark of sunlight descended from the sky and ignited the land, engulfing it in flames. When the inferno finally waned, the scorched earth was shrouded in dense smoke. A majestic Phoenix ascended, its fiery wings fueling the stills of Lagavulin, intensifying the whisky's spicy and smoky character.
In this profound expression crafted from virgin oak and the smokiest casks in their reserves, peaty notes take the lead in a timeless dance with spices and smoke, all harmonizing with a profound sweetness.
Tasting Note by Lagavulin:Nose: Dry, with an immediate powerful smokiness; much more so than is usual with Lagavulin, with charcoal and fragrant peat massively to the fore, backed by a clean fresh base-note that suggests sea air and mineral scents. Much reduced, aromatically, with even a little water, it remains essentially unaltered.Palate: The smooth lightly oily texture shines with sweet richness; the taste is sweet to start, then takes off with a soaring lemony acidity and a sprinkling of sea salt to add freshness. Mid-palate the fire dries the taste, which flies still higher now in its salty-smoky intensity. A dash of water rounds and sweetens but it’s the smoke that dominates.Finish: Long, with great waves of peat-smoke, and new-fired heights of spiced and smoky intensity that last wonderfully in the aftertaste.
According to the legend, Clynelish once faced a fierce blizzard that threatened its precious casks with ruin. In the midst of this icy tempest, a silent and enigmatic feline creature came to the rescue. Situated in the densely overgrown woods of the Highlands, Clynelish is a distillery that stands even more remote than most, tucked away in the wilderness that serves as the natural habitat of the elusive Scottish wildcat. Although few of these elusive creatures remain, the symbol of the wildcat is proudly displayed at the Clynelish distillery, serving as its eternal guardian.
This particular Clynelish expression, as radiant as a gleaming golden eye, reveals a spicier dimension to its vibrant fruity notes and waxy texture. The luscious liquid emanates a dazzling array of complex aromas, encompassing fruits, herbs, and deeper, fragrant oak spices. Its velvety texture and opulent, wine-like sweetness are complemented by a burst of peppery spice, the result of an extended period of secondary maturation in Pedro Ximenez/Oloroso casks. A single malt as rare and elusive as the mysterious guardian that watches over it.
Tasting Note by Clynelish:Nose: Creamy top notes soon give way to light yet complex fruity and herbal aromas; subtle, understated suggestions of fruity mincemeat, tinned pears, even heather honey. Deeper still, spicy scents of oak preview a soaring intensity on the palate. A drop of water increases the herbal note, while also introducing a familiar waxy hint.Palate: A very smooth, mouth-filling texture introduces a lively taste that is rich and wine-sweet overall, the palate well-balanced by snarling peppery, oaky spice. A little water enhances the sweetness, steers the smoothness of the texture towards waxiness and rounds the flavours, which soon give way again to spicy heat.Finish: Quite long, chili-spiced, and appetisingly drying, with lingering pepper. A little water enhances the creamy-smooth texture and adds a little more spice.
