Aston Martin and Bowmore's Masters’ Selection 22 Year Old, released a year after their first collaboration, is a single malt whisky by Bowmore's Ron Welsh. It blends spirits aged in selected European Oak Oloroso casks and American oak hogsheads, offering notes of peach, honey, tobacco, clove, sea salt, and peat smoke. The 2022 edition is a joint effort with Aston Martin's Marek Reichman.
Tasting Note by Bowmore:Nose: Beginning with sweet and fruity notes of heather honey, vanilla with subtle cherries.Palate: Rich sweet and malty spicy notes of vanilla fudge.Finish: Sweet and woody with notes of liquorice sticks deliver a spicy feel.
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.
Roebuck Estates Blanc de Noirs 2015 is an exclusive creation meticulously crafted from hand-picked Pinot Noir grapes cultivated in our Roman Villa vineyard. Following a rigorous selection process, these grapes undergo whole-bunch pressing and partial fermentation in the finest French oak casks. A generous period of lees aging, lasting a minimum of 36 months, imparts depth, complexity, and richness to this wine. While it is currently enjoyable, its potential for improvement with further bottle aging is undeniable, promising an even more exceptional drinking experience in the future.
Tasting Note by Roebuck Estate:Ripe stone fruits and baked apples layered with notes of brioche and toasted almonds.
The Classic Cuvée 2016, a deliciously complex English sparkling wine known for its opulence, texture, and finesse, is the perfect companion for life's most cherished moments. The grapes destined for this vintage are carefully hand-harvested and undergo whole-bunch pressing. A portion of the fermentation process occurs in the finest Burgundian oak barrels, followed by extended lees aging for a minimum of 36 months. These precise techniques result in a wine that boasts additional richness, depth, and complexity, making it an outstanding choice for those seeking a truly exceptional wine experience.
Tasting Note by Roebuck Estate:Baked apples and stone fruit layered with a biscuity richness and delicious hint of hazelnut.
Holding the title as Europe's top-selling Scotch whisky and acclaimed as the World's Best Blended Scotch in 2020, its recipe has remained unchanged and loyal to its origins since 1910.
Tasting Note by Ballantine's:Nose: Soft, elegant, heather honey aromas with a hint of spice.Palate: A balance of subtle, sweet flavours like milk chocolate, red apple and vanilla.Finish: Fresh and floral after-taste that creates a rounded glow.
The English Whisky Company aptly names this single malt whisky "Smokey Virgin," featured in their esteemed Small Batch Release series. This whisky has earned its name as it underwent a 6-year maturation process in new (virgin) oak casks infused with the essence of peat smoke, resulting in a distinctive character and a notable 46% ABV.
Tasting Note by The English:Nose: The aroma reveals the scent of peaches in cream, accompanied by fresh citrus notes, smoky malt, and a subtle hint of ginger.Palate: The taste begins with a grassy peat flavor, followed by the presence of nutmeg, milk chocolate, and crisp apples.Finish: The finish is characterized by a floral quality, along with a touch of smokiness and sweetness.
The St. George's Distillery, known for its remarkable English range, has unveiled yet another captivating expression. This single malt has undergone a unique maturation process, resting in both virgin oak and sherry casks. The result is a whisky that entices the palate with delightful sweet notes of dried fruit, complemented by lively oak spices.
Tasting Note by The English:Nose: The aroma evokes the delightful scent of chocolate chip and raisin cookies, along with roasted almonds. There are also notes of cassia and black pepper adding a touch of spice.Palate: The taste is characterized by festive spices and toasted oak, with subtle hints of caramel lingering underneath.Finish: The finish brings forth flavors of raisin, grist (coarsely ground grain), and honeycomb, providing a satisfying conclusion to the experience.
The Virgin Oak Cask expression from The English Distillery began as an experiment but has now found its place in The English range. While whiskies aged in new oak casks can often be overwhelming, this one strikes a harmonious balance. It showcases the creamy, nutty, and chocolatey qualities of the cask without being dominated by overpowering oak. Instead, it offers a restrained hint of robust oak that complements the rich vanilla and nutty barley notes, creating a well-rounded and flavorful whisky.
Tasting Note by The English: Nose: Toasted vanilla pod, coconut ice, ginger, and a trace of caraway.Palate: Full-bodied barley and almond liqueur flavours, with a rising nutmeg warmth. More vanilla, this time with some chocolate coffee undertones emerging.Finish: Honey on toast, delicate citrus, and a peppery finish.
The English Whisky Company has crafted a small-batch release from their St. George's Distillery, and it's based on a heavily-peated malt that underwent maturation between 2010 and 2021. This remarkable release presents a delightful blend of flavors, including caramel, apples, and a distinct smokiness that runs through every sip. It's a testament to the craftsmanship of the distillery and their commitment to producing exceptional whisky.
Tasting Note by The English:Wafts of sea salt and burning embers with a soft sweet smokey finish.
Outlaw, a bourbon from Yellow Rose Distilling, proudly showcases its rebellious spirit. Crafted using 100% Texas yellow corn and aged in small American oak barrels, this bourbon boasts a full-bodied and warming palate. The tasting experience is characterised by a delightful interplay of flavors, including notes of vanilla and caramel, harmoniously mingling with the bold spiciness of black pepper.
Tasting Note by Yellow Rose:Nose: Intense aroma, rich caramel, and vanilla with a hint of floralPalate: Slightly sweet and extremely rich.Finish: Long, maintaining caramel and vanilla. Like a good dessert.
This exquisite blend seamlessly marries southern charm with rugged cowboy style, offering a whiskey with an abundance of character. Distinguished by a higher bourbon content, it exudes a fuller flavor profile compared to traditional Canadian blends while maintaining its signature smoothness and a subtle touch of sweetness. Whether gracing a top shelf in Texas or anywhere around the world, it is a worthy addition for discerning whiskey enthusiasts.
Tasting Note by Yellow Rose:Nose: Light aroma, fruity banana with caramel. Palate: Sweet with banana.Finish: Medium finish.
Kentucky Owl® St. Patrick's Limited Edition is a blend of Kentucky Straight Bourbons aged from 4 to 8 years, each offering unique flavors. It combines rich caramel and vanilla from well-aged bourbons, spices and fruit from high-rye bourbons, and a touch of sweetness and citrus from wheated bourbon. The result is a robust and well-balanced bourbon experience.
Tasting Note by Kentucky Owl Bourbon:Nose: A nose of sweet caramel and honey with just enough spice married in, to pleasantly tease the palate. Palate: Long notes of caramel, butterscotch, frosted cinnamon roll. Chocolate orange, candy floss, and intro some citrus peel.Finish: A bright forest fruit on the mid palate and a long lingering finish with vanilla pod and some balanced wood influence.
Kentucky Owl Batch 11 proudly carries forward the esteemed tradition of barrel-proof whiskies that have propelled Kentucky Owl to legendary status. This masterpiece combines the finest 10-14 year old bourbons with mature bourbons aged 6-9 years, resulting in a symphony of taste that is truly unparalleled.
Tasting Note by Kentucky Owl Bourbon:Nose: There is an immediate tingle in the nose from the combined rye grains in the bourbons and their age. Followed by a smooth caramel and vanilla pause. Lastly, comes a mild and gentle chocolate vanilla oak.Palate: The spiciness of the combined bourbon grains, along with the tannins in the wood barrel tingle the mouth with flavor. Followed by a soft flow of bourbon vanilla tea and soft wine.Finish: The finish is mild as the tingle fades, with a soft apple lingering in the throat.
THE WISEMAN Bourbon from Kentucky Owl is a masterful fusion of four distinct Kentucky straight bourbons. This exceptional bourbon has been honored with a Double Gold Medal at the esteemed 2022 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, a testament to its exceptional quality and craftsmanship.
Tasting Note by Kentucky Owl Bourbon:Nose: With The Wiseman Bourbon the first thing you discover is a sweet caramel aroma, followed by a warming allspice lift, a sprinkling of citrus and a hint of oak.Palate: The Wiseman Bourbon offers caramel and allspice which present an excellent flavor as the mildly silky liquid crosses the tongue. The allspice sticks around for a longer finish with caramel.
This limited edition release is a rare gem, with only 630 crystal decanters available, each adorned with a unique number, making it a truly exclusive experience. Mahesh Patel's passion for collecting casks led him to handpick two Macallan barrels over 15 years ago, long before it became a trend. Now, he invites whisky enthusiasts to join him on a journey of exceptional flavors and unparalleled craftsmanship. The Macallan 26 Year Old (Sirius) whisky is a harmonious blend of fine-grained Highland peat and the traditional Macallan sherry profile.
Tasting Note by Sirius:Nose: Warm and inviting scents of butterscotch meet aromatic heather, encapsulated by orange zesty charcoal Smoke.Palate: Satisfyingly, creamy and peppery with aromas of roasted nuts, nutmeg and clove, with hints of Madagascan vanilla, dark chocolate, honey, candied fruits and floral smoke.Finish: Long-lingering sweet, oaky spice.
The GlenAllachie Wine Cask Series, crafted by Master Blender Billy Walker, features a unique expression called The Cuvée Wine Cask Finish. This 2023 release blends whisky matured in American oak ex-Bourbon barrels and European wine barriques from French and Italian regions. The result is an opulent, smooth malt with layers of robust red fruits, gentle spice, and citrus hints, bottled unchillfiltered at 48% ABV with no added colouring.
Tasting Note by GlenAllachie:Nose: Bursting with orange blossom, espresso, maraschino cherries and honeysuckle, with hints of candied stone fruits, hazelnuts, lavender and cinnamon. Palate: Waves of dark chocolate, red currants and burnt coffee beans, followed by crystalised almonds, blackberries and orange zest, with ginger and liquorice on the finish.
Part of Gordon & MacPhail’s Discovery Range, this Ledaig 12 Year Old introduces the unmistakable smoky and maritime character of Tobermory’s peated spirit. Matured in a combination of bourbon and sherry casks, the whisky balances sweet and smoky notes, capturing the essence of the Isle of Mull’s coastal environment. Bottled at 43% ABV, it showcases the harmony between rich fruit, smoke and oak influence.
Tasting Note by Gordon & MacPhail: Nose: Peat smoke opens to reveal maple-cured meat, toffee and baked apples, with seaside grasses and a gentle briny edgePalate: Stewed fruits, sultanas and currants mingle with milk chocolate and crème brûlée, alongside sweet toffee, citrus bursts and a smouldering bonfire ember noteFinish: Lingering oak fades slowly to reveal soft hints of citrus
The exclusive Benrinnes 8 Year Old 2014 (Sherry) from the Old Particular Midnight Series by Douglas Laing. With just 635 bottles available, this limited edition whisky, distilled in April 2014 and bottled in September 2022, offers a unique taste and exceptional sherry influence.
Tasting Notes by Douglas Laing & Co:Nose: Rich and distinctly sherried, darkly fruited and spiced, with vanilla fudge.Palate: Shows early Christmas cake style – full of syrup, barley and sultanas.Finish: Malted with muscovado sugar and nuts – plus grapes and cereal throughout. (FHL)
Big Peat's limited edition Christmas 2022 bottling is a festive celebration of Islay's single malt whiskies. This remarkable release is a marriage of single malt Scotch whiskies exclusively from the island of Islay, known for its distinctive and peaty whisky style.
Here's what you can expect from Big Peat's Christmas Edition 2022:
ABV (Alcohol by Volume): 54.2%
Volume: 70cl (700ml)
Big Peat is renowned for its unique blend, which incorporates single malts from various Islay distilleries, each contributing its own distinct characteristics:
Caol Ila: Known for bringing sweetness to the blend.
Bowmore: Adds a perfect balance of flavors.
Ardbeg: Contributes a medicinal and earthy quality.
Port Ellen: Provides a touch of elegance.
This limited edition release captures the essence of Islay in a bottle, offering a harmonious blend of these iconic distilleries' spirits. It's a part of the Remarkable Regional Malts range, which showcases the diverse whisky regions of Scotland through exceptional blends.
Big Peat's Christmas Edition 2022 is not only a delightful expression of Islay's peaty whisky tradition but also a special release to enjoy during the holiday season. With its higher-than-average ABV, it promises a robust and flavorful whisky experience that's perfect for celebrating and sharing with fellow whisky enthusiasts.
Tasting Note by Douglas Laing & Co:Nose: Anticipate burnt caramel, wafts of Hebridean sea air and notes of enticing peat smoke.Palate: Delivers the ultimate distillation of Islay: reminiscent of bonfire ashes and rich earthy notes balanced by a toasted marshmallow sweetness.Finish: Whilst these winter days may be short, the finish is satisfyingly long, with more of what went before.
Crafted with artistry by our skilled whisky makers, The Dalmore 18 is a remarkable yearly release characterised by its profound and indulgent chocolate notes.
Tasting Note by Dalmore:Nose: Vanilla, dark chocolate, English marmalade, and sweet liquorice.Palate: Chocolate raisins, citrus fruits, rich coffee, nutmeg, and spice.Finish: Stewed fruits and toffee.
Benromach Peat Smoke is a distinct and memorable single malt Scotch whisky that sets itself apart with its pronounced peaty character. This small-batch expression is crafted using heavily peated barley, which infuses the whisky with a robust and smoky flavor profile. Matured in first-fill bourbon barrels, this whisky undergoes a transformative journey within the casks.
Tasting Note by Benromach:Nose: Very rich smoke with fragrant vanilla and light citrus zest. Hints of apples develop accompanied by white chocolate.Palate: Smooth with toasted oak, honey and sweet ripe fruit. Butterscotch and marshmallow flavours lead to a lemon sherbet all alongside sweet smoke.Finish: Mouth-coating sweetness and bonfire embers.
Tamdhu Batch Strength No. 7 showcases Tamdhu's steadfast dedication to crafting sherry-matured whisky, boasting a captivating natural copper hue and a complex flavor profile. Every Oloroso sherry cask is meticulously hand-selected, resulting in an exquisite and nuanced flavor with a memorable and gratifying finish that embodies Speyside's essence.
Tasting Note by Tamdhu:Nose: Subtle waft of vanilla sponge, followed by spicy cinnamon and roasted praline.Palate: Pavlova filled with luscious raspberries, caramel apricots with a wave of oak spice, and a zingy lemon punch.Finish: Warm oak spices, baked figs, evident sherry flavours, and freshly peeled clementine.
PIAFF Blanc de Blancs
Grape: 100% Chardonnay
Vineyard: Côte des Blancs
Terroir: The vineyard faces east, with thin topsoils that allow the Chardonnay vines to delve into chalk at shallower depths than in other areas, renowned for its pronounced minerality.
Vinification: Stainless steel
Time on lees: A minimum of 3 years
Closure: Cork and cage
Tasting Note by Champagne Piaff:Soft floral aromas are highlighted by a delicate yet enduring mousse, which also has hints of fresh hazelnuts and almonds. White fruits are presented on the palate in great proportion with a particularly pleasant minerality and notes of brioche/yeastiness. The palate has excellent structure and longevity.
In the most recent Limited Edition release from Ledaig, the whisky brims with flavor, having been fully matured in red wine casks and bottled at cask strength (56.8% ABV). This particular expression of peated Ledaig has enjoyed 9 years of maturation in the finest Bordeaux red wine casks. The result is a whisky with distinct notes of heather, pine cones, woody sea salt, and floral undertones that linger on the finish. As with all Ledaig whiskies, this release is presented in its natural color and is non-chillfiltered, allowing its character to shine through in the form of intense and rich flavors.
Tasting Note by Tobermory:Nose: Smoked fudge, eucalyptus oil and carbolic soap.Palate: Burning heather and pine cones. Grape skins and melons, wood smoked meats.Finish: As the smoke drifts, some floral notes develop and finally lime pastilles.
Glen Scotia 15 is a refined single malt, embodying Campbeltown's unique character. Aged in first-fill bourbon and re-fill American Oak casks, it combines smooth vanilla oak tones with spicy, fruity notes of apricot and orange blossom.
Tasting Note by Glen Scotia: The distinctive nose contains understated flavours of sea spray, spicy aromatic fruits, and vanilla wood, all interlaced together.
Glen Scotia Double Cask whisky is a prime introduction to their range, ideal for those exploring whisky. It defies age with its rich toffee and fudge notes. Aged initially in bourbon barrels and finished in PX sherry casks for 12 months, it offers a blend of rich fruit flavours and distinctive Campbeltown character.
Tasting Note by Glen Scotia: It offers the ideal balance of rich, spicy fruits, overlaid with the distinctive sea spray and vanilla oak finish for which the house of Glen Scotia is renowned.
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.
According to the legend, a particular night witnessed a blood-red transformation of the moon in the Mortlach sky, marking the beginning of a mysterious alchemical process. Deep within the Mortlach distillery's stills, the blood moon's alluring ruby richness and intricate darkness worked their enchanting magic, endowing Mortlach itself with an uncommon and captivating essence. Radiant with the glow of ruby light, this renowned whisky underwent a final maturation in a blend of Virgin Oak, Tawny Port, and Red Muscat wine casks, intensifying its deep amber hue.
Vigorous scents of opulent wine and sweet grape intertwine with Mortlach's signature meaty character. In the quiet hours of the night, amid flickering illumination, the finish ascends to unparalleled heights. It's a whisky to hold dear, where sweetness, darkness, and depth converge in a mystical union that leaves a lasting impression.
Tasting Note by Mortlach:Nose: Robust savoury, rich notes evoke a hearty cassoulet with haricots, tomatoes, spicy sausage, and crisp pork belly. Intriguing aromas of grape and red wine entwine with this meatiness then, as the nose develops, become more mineral. A little water changes the picture again, lowering the spiciness and bringing up more rounded, wine-accented sweet red fruit.Palate: Rich and smoothly mouth-filling in texture, while the deep and intense taste is sweetly fruity rather than meaty, and spicy-dry, as the virgin oak makes its presence felt. Magnificently lively, with a richly layered taste, in which hints of ginger lead a spicy dance. A dash of water fashions a delicious, harmonious and strong marriage between fruitiness and black pepper spiciness.Finish: Long and deeply impressive, with power, fruit and black pepper in perfect harmony, a spicy kick as it goes down and a warming glow spreading across the palate. Finally, the palate is left dry, bathed in a glorious afterglow. A drop of water adds a dash of acidity.
As one follows the meandering path along the river's edge beside The Singleton of Glen Ord, the tale of its unique enchantment carries significant meaning. Situated on the Black Isle, it stands as the sole remaining Single Malt distillery, and the allure of this whisky resides in its luxuriously intricate flavors. The mastery of slow craftsmanship has always been the secret, allowing each phase of production, from malting to maturation, to progress at its own unhurried pace, resulting in a liquid that is harmonious, velvety, and captivating.
This exceptional expression captivates the senses with its opulent character, honed over eight years of aging in wine casks.
Tasting Note by Singleton:Nose: Dry overall, the gentle nose gives a vinous first impression, backed by spicy, woody notes of oak shavings and beech. Alluring aromas of tart red berry fruit and creamy vanilla spread among them, and a hint of wax appears in the development. A little water softens the nose and relaxes the aroma, without great alteration.Palate: An ultra-smooth, mouth-filling texture prefaces a lively, intense taste; barley-sugar sweet, with a pinch of salt. That sweetness becomes pleasantly tart, with suggestions of gooseberry and crisp grape. At reduced strength, it is not as tart, but still spicy; the sweetness is highlighted yet the appetising spicy heat remains.Finish: Lengthy and palate-drying, as pepper-heat lingers in a last kiss of silken spice. With water sweeter, now with a trace of fondant in the aftertaste.
According to legend, the ancient black rock beneath Cardhu experienced a seismic event one day, causing it to crack with a thunderous sound. From within this fracture, a tremendous warmth surged forth, creating a tropical paradise where none had existed before. The biting winds that once prevailed transformed into gentle breezes, and the rich fragrances of passion-flower and pineapple gracefully wafted through the distillery and its surroundings, imbuing everything they touched with an extraordinary, exotic essence. At the stroke of midnight, the chasm sealed itself shut, returning to silence for all eternity.
Tasting Note by Cardhu:Nose: Beguiling first impressions begin with the fresh, sweet fruitiness of lemon zest and white grape enriched by exotic notes of pink grapefruit and ripe mango, all on a faintly mossy base, a note that evolves into freshly ironed linen. A notably spicy and woody note soars high above. A drop of water dries these aromas and introduces a pinch of white pepper.Palate: A creamy-smooth and full texture, the taste erupting with sweet flavour. Tingling on the tongue, the fruity and malty sweetness behind this suggesting home-made rum toffee and more exotic hints of spiced pineapple and green banana, made more appetising still by spicy and drying, bracingly crisp, clean oak. A dash of water creates a delightful and even smoother texture, still strong in peppery spice.Finish: Quite short, sweet and peppery. With water, the oaky spiciness is even more forward.
According to their legend, when the tides of Talisker Bay surged with an unusual intensity, a radiant creature emerged from the darkest depths, illuminating the profound sea darkness with its enchanting radiance.
Nestled along the shores of Loch Harport, near the rugged western edge of the Isle of Skye, where legends find an easy home, Talisker has been shaping its own maritime destiny since the year 1830. This whisky, marked by sweetness, saltiness, thunderous power, and smoky allure, is as primal as the land, sea, or storm itself—a spirit designed for those with an untamed spirit, crafted by the ever-changing sea.
Within its deep golden hue, subtle notes of salt and smoky echoes reminiscent of a beach bonfire impart a maritime essence to its gentle aroma. This is a legendary Talisker, possessing an otherworldly charm and beauty.
Tasting Note by Talisker:Nose: Maritime in feel, with light spice-prickle, the first impression suggests a beach bonfire of dry seaweed, then deep-seated notes of maritime saltiness and marine engines take over, on a base of drying fresh linen. All these scents hold together well at reduced strength.Palate: Smoothly oily in texture, while the taste is gloriously sweet throughout and smoky-spicy, with a distinct fruity hint, all of which evokes an orchard seen through smoke and sea mist. A fine salty balance in the middle leads the spiciness on into a powerful chili pepper catch as you swallow. With a drop of water, the sweet fruitiness and saltiness come into their own.Finish: Long, sustained and lightly smoky, with lingering warming spice.
After 18 years of careful maturation, the crisp, fruity spirit gains depth and richness, revealing unexpected layers of flavour. What was once simple becomes refined, with subtle complexities and a lingering, rounded character. The result is a whisky of natural elegance and effortless depth.
Tasting Note by Glenrothes:Nose: Ripe pear and sweet vanilla pods, tempered by aromatic orange oil. Invigorating almond notes and a well-rounded fragrance add complexity, whilst a hint of dried ginger spice creates unassuming depth.Palate: A rich and deep flavour, alive with sweet ginger, pear and rose water. Aromatic fruit and light oak create gentle spice, which balances nicely against an undercurrent of creamy vanilla.Finish: Divine sweetness balanced with spice and a gently peppery undertone.
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.
The English Original is an unpeated single malt whisky that has been aged to perfection in carefully chosen Bourbon casks. It is known for its easy-drinking and classic character, making it a great choice for whisky enthusiasts. Notably, this whisky is non-chill filtered and retains its natural color, preserving its authentic qualities.
Tasting Note by The English:A gentle aroma with hints of vanilla and tropical fruits. Like a soft whipped vanilla ice cream. Melts on the palate. Slightly nutty with a long malty finish. Finish is clean, dry and slightly salty.
Benromach 15 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky is a distinguished expression that has been aged for a full 15 years. With an ABV of 43%, it showcases the brand's commitment to quality and craftsmanship. This whisky is exclusively matured in first-fill bourbon and sherry casks, which play a significant role in shaping its exceptional flavor profile.
Tasting Note by Benromach:Nose: Aromas of sweet toffee leading to notes of cracked black pepper and peat smoke. Rich forest fruits develop with dark chocolate and dried banana.Palate: Creamy and sweet with ripe apples and an undertone of charred oak. Dark chocolate develops and leads to toasted malt and orange peel with a subtle hint of smoke.Finish: Medium creamy finish with soft smoke and dried fruit.
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.
This superb single malt hails from the Glenfarclas distillery, having spent a remarkable 30 years maturing to perfection. This extended aging process has yielded a whisky with a fantastically full-bodied and immensely satisfying Sherry-influenced flavor profile, making it an all-around awesome and exceptional expression.
Tasting Note by Glenfarclas:Nose: Full of complex aromas with fruit and sherried malty tones.Palate: With Sherry, cognac, brandy, fruit, nuts, marzipan (and even icing), this is a wonderfully indulgent Christmas cake, in a glass!Finish: A whisky you never want to end and it very nearly doesn’t. The finish is exquisite with a real taste of brunt chocolate at the back of your mouth.
Wire Works presents a lightly-peated English single malt whisky that has undergone maturation in a carefully chosen assortment of American and French oak casks, imparting a nuanced and unique character to the spirit.
Tasting Note by White Peak: Aromas of caramel popcorn, butterscotch, cloves, ripe banana, apples, vanilla sponge, candied ginger, cherry pie, bergamot, and nutmeg fill the nose, and are complemented throughout the palate by notes of chocolate orange.
Highland Park 15 Year Old is a flavourful and intriguingly complex whisky with a deep golden natural colour taken directly from the cask. It balances aromatic warmth with vibrant citrus notes, capturing the lively contrasts of life in Orkney. Rich, bright and beautifully textured, this expression highlights the distillery’s signature interplay between sweetness, spice and gentle heathery peat.
Tasting Note by Highland Park:Honey glazed pineapple, vanilla bean, toasted cinnamon, lemon zest, heathery peat smoke.
The second batch of JJ Corry The Hanson, bottled in 2020, is a blend of three casks of grain whiskey sourced from various distilleries in Ireland. This blend results in a whiskey with a bright, fruity character highlighted by notes of rich oak, smooth vanilla, toasted flavors, and hints of apples, pineapple, lively citrus, and rhubarb.
Tasting Note from JJ Corry:Nose: Deep oak, warm vanilla and toasted notes.Palate: Rich and surprisingly complex, this sip finishes with a touch of spice and a hint of oiliness
The third edition of JJ Corry The Gael is a blended Irish whiskey with a character marked by fruity and spicy notes. It presents aromas of bergamot, beeswax, honey, and lemon on the nose. When tasted, you'll encounter flavors of white peach, lime, grapefruit, apples, and pink peppercorns that leave a lasting impression in the finish.
Tasting Note by JJ Corry:Nose: Hints of fresh bergamot & beeswax.Palate: Ripe white stone fruit & lime, with minerality & pink pepper corns.Finish: Medium length, minerals again with dried grapefruit & apple notes.
One of the most opulent whiskies to grace the market in 2021, this particular expression was distilled at the Tsunuki Distillery before being transported to the enchanting island of Yakushima in southern Japan for its maturation. Exhibiting a seemingly accelerated aging process, it caters to connoisseurs who appreciate bold, robust flavors, delivering an immensely satisfying experience.
Tasting Note by Tsunuki:Cut grass and crème brulee, with some pineapple and Mirabelle plum on the nose, with just a touch of malted barley. Honey, vanilla and chocolate éclair on the palate, with some candied lemon. Some sweet spice on the finish, with coconut and aniseed.
Distilled and aged at the Tsunuki Distillery, this single cask whisky boasts an impressive peat level of 124ppm. Remarkably, it still retains the distillery's signature traits of freshness and floral notes, with the gentle peat providing a harmonious complement to these characteristics. Notably, this particular single cask was handpicked by La Maison du Whisky, a globally renowned whisky retailer known for their discerning taste in exceptional spirits.
Tasting Note by Tsunuki:Pepper, cinnamon and liquorice on the nose, with a touch of oiliness and oak cake. Very busy on the palate, with candied lemon, iris, bacon fat, gooseberry and vanilla pod. Some fresh herbs on the finish with sage, verbena and soft peat smoke.
Crafted with utmost precision and care, this annual release has become a true cornerstone of the Shinshu distillery's product lineup, setting the benchmark for the renowned Shinshu style. Aged in a harmonious combination of bourbon and sherry casks, the Shinshu Komagatake 2015 Single Cask #3225 offers a symphony of flavors that will transport you to the heart of the Japanese Alps.
Tasting Note by Shinshu:Bright and fruit driven on the palate, with notes of plum, apricot, green apple and a touch of smoke. Vibrant barley sugar and vanilla on the palate, with some notes of marzipan, tarte tatin and tobacco leaf.
This annual release has garnered a reputation as the pinnacle of the Shinshu style, captivating whisky enthusiasts around the world. Aged with meticulous care in a harmonious blend of bourbon and sherry casks, each sip unveils a symphony of taste that will transport your senses to new heights.
Tasting Note by Shinshu:Bright and fruit driven on the palate, with notes of plum, apricot, green apple and a touch of smoke. Vibrant barley sugar and vanilla on the palate, with some notes of marzipan, tarte tatin and tobacco leaf.
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.
An award-winning masterpiece, this whisky has gracefully matured for 18 years in American white oak ex-Bourbon barrels within the storied vaulted ceiling warehouse at Deanston Distillery. The outcome is a quintessential Deanston whisky, graced with enticing notes of sweet barley sugar, vanilla, and crisp apple. Furthermore, the bourbon casks magnificently highlight the waxy character inherent in our single malt, resulting in the extraordinary mouthfeel for which Deanston is celebrated.
Tasting Note by Deanston:Nose: Quite aromatic, with balanced American oak notes. Floral, malty, grassy, vanilla and honey with hints of tobacco and nutmeg.Palate: Sweet and spicy, citrus, barley sugar, gingerbread, Manuka honey and white pepper flavours.Finish: Dry and spicy with a warming gingery honeyed tail.
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.
