Embark on a maritime adventure with a collection celebrating the coastal essence of Single Malt Scotch Whiskies. Each bottle in this selection carries whispers of the sea, with briny notes, subtle seaweed aromas, and the freshness of ocean breezes. A voyage in a glass, tailored for those who find solace in the vastness of the coast and its influence on whisky.
Created for Fèis Ìle 2023, this cask strength Limited Edition whisky is Manzanilla sherry cask-finished, offering a warmly inviting dram with salt and spice notes.
Distilled on October 28, 1998, it initially matured in American Oak casks before finding its way into first-fill Manzanilla sherry casks on May 25, 2016.
Manzanilla sherry's coastal, salty, and nutty qualities align perfectly with our Bunnahabhain spirit. Bottled at cask strength for an intense flavor, this festival release maintains our tradition of no added color and non-chillfiltration.
Tasting Note by Bunnahabhain:Nose: Notes of freshly baked pastry with sweet almonds, rose petals, grapefruit and dried spices are balanced with a touch ofmahogany and incense.Palate: Coastal influence of seaweed and fresh sea air are met with raisins and dates and intertwined with creamy fudge, waxed red apples and a warm sweet spice reminiscent of star anise.Finish: Spicy and aromatic with caramelised walnuts; the star anise fades to reveal lemon peel and pears with a lingering note of sea salt.
Ledaig 10 is a meticulously crafted 10 year old single malt whisky known for its unique smoky profile, originating from Tobermory Distillery. Much like all their single malts, this peated Ledaig undergoes no chill filtration and retains its natural colour. It's bottled at 46.3% ABV and is made using peated barley (30-40ppm) of the concerto variety.
Tasting Note by Tobymory: Nose: Sweet briny smokiness with distinct island character and playful notes that hint at mild antiseptic, creosote, wax polish, mint chocolate and floral seaside aromas. Soft peat, gentle smoke.Palate: Tantalisingly sweet, medicinal flavours infused with enticing sparks of spicy pepper and dried fruit with rich peaty smoke and a velvety vanilla and malty creaminess.Finish: A wondrous union of sublimely spicy white pepper, the vibrant sweetness of liquorice and a kick of cloves with a exquisite lingering saltiness.
The Port Charlotte 10 year old is exclusively created, distilled, aged, and bottled on Islay. Crafted from 100% Scottish barley, it undergoes a slow distillation process using tall, slender-necked stills to achieve a harmonious, heathery barbeque smoke flavor.
Tasting Note by Bruichladdich:Nose: The smoke is calmed by the marine, ozone character, time has brought abalance, a harmony in the combination of oak, smoke and spirit. While the smoke isalways discernible on the nose it is dry, earthy, peatash in its style and so allows the oakto come forward with waves of golden caramel, fudge, vanilla custard, hints of ginger,nutmeg and clove. There is citrus fruit, coaxed from the glass with a drop of water,gentle lemon meringue and clementine. Breathe deeply and the floral aromas of wildthyme, heather and sea pink bring you to this Atlantic coast.Palate: On the palate there is a noticeable delicacy and softness in texture and style.Again, the balance of flavour is superb as the smoke wraps loosely around thesweetness drawn from deep within the oak. Coconut, vanilla custard, lemon honeycombines with smoked oysters and sun baked salty sand.Finish: The finish is sublime, smoky sure, but also the soft sweetness of fudge andmalted barley, orange, mango and Banoffee pie hinting of the depth and quality of theoak. The many layers interchange on each sip. As the smoke comes and goes so toothe notes of the spirit, ripe apple and apricot, beautifully intertwined with malt and oaksweetness and that typical Port Charlotte style dry smoke.
The award-winning whisky underwent an initial 16-year maturation in ex-bourbon casks, followed by an additional 2 years of finishing in premium sherry casks, imparting delightful sweet and fruity characteristics to the spirit. Staying true to the Tobermory Distillery tradition, this whisky is non-chillfiltered and retains its natural color. It's bottled at 46.3% ABV and occupies a place in the Ledaig (peated whisky) core range, alongside Ledaig 10-Year-Old and Ledaig Sinclair Series: Rioja Cask Finish. Ledaig 18 is an island whisky characterized by its smoky profile. It skillfully combines the enticing notes of sweetness and florals with the depth and warmth of sea salt and smoke, creating a harmonious and complex flavor profile.
Tasting Note by Tobermory:Nose: Rich, fruity sherried smokiness, lovely balance of phenols, seaweed and light creosote, dried chilli flakes, spicy black pepper with hints of sweet oakiness.Palate: Powerful rich, sherried, herbal smoky flavours, orange peel, coffee, a touch of sea salt, tobacco and white pepper.Finish: Long and quite pungent with more smoke, a hint of liquorice and sea spray.
Nestled under the Mull of Oa, Ardbeg Distillery endures the Atlantic's harsh elements while enjoying natural shelter. Ardbeg An Oa reflects this rugged environment with its rounded, mellow character, crafted in the Gathering Vat. The blend of Pedro Ximenez, Virgin charred oak, and ex-bourbon casks creates a harmonious whisky with signature peat, dark chocolate, aniseed, and smooth butterscotch.
Tasting Note by Ardbeg:Nose: Peat infused with zesty lemon and lime, wrapped in waxy dark chocolate. Bold menthol and black pepper slice through the sweet smoke followed by tarry ropes and graphite. Savour the aroma of smoked fish and crispy bacon alongside green bell peppers, baked pineapple and pear juice. Add water and an oceanic minerality brings a breath of cool, briny seaspray. Waxed lemon and lime follows with coal tar soap, beeswax and herby pine woodlands. Toasted vanilla and sizzling cinnamon simmer with warm hazelnut and almond toffee.Palate: An explosion of crackling peat sets off millions of flavour explosions: peat effervesces with tangy lemon and lime juice, black pepper pops with sizzling cinnamon-spiced toffee. Then comes a wave of brine infused with smooth buttermilk, ripe bananas and currants. Smoke gradually wells up on the palate bringing a mouthful of warm creamy cappuccino and toasted marshmallows. As the taste lengthens and deepens, dry espresso, liquorice root and tarry smoke develop coating the palate with chewy peat oils.Finish: Long and smoky with tarry espresso, aniseed, toasted almonds and traces of soft barley and fresh pear.
Lagavulin, often referred to as "the king of Islay," is an essential Scotch Whisky beloved by connoisseurs and enthusiasts worldwide. Aged for a minimum of 16 years in oak casks, this sought-after Single Malt boasts the signature peat-smoke flavor of southern Islay. It also offers a remarkable richness and dryness, making it an intriguing and quintessential choice for whisky aficionados.
Tasting Note by Lagavulin:Nose: Intensely flavoured, peat smoke with iodine and seaweed and a rich, deep sweetness.Palate: Dry peat smoke fills the palate with a gentle but strong sweetness, followed by sea and salt with touches of wood.Finish: A long, elegant peat-filled finish with lots of salt and seaweed.
Ardbeg Corryvreckan, inspired by the intense whirlpool off Islay's coast, is a bold and complex single malt that mirrors the whirlpool's audacious nature. It offers a tumult of deep, peaty, and peppery flavors, demanding respect and appreciation. Recognised as the World's Best Single Malt in 2010, this non-chill filtered whisky is matured in ex-bourbon casks, with no age statement, and has a high ABV of 57.1%. It's distinguished by its rich amber color, embodying both the wildness of nature and the finesse of expert whisky crafting.
Tasting Note by Ardbeg:Nose: Heady, intense and powerful. Swirl the glass and dip your nose into the torrents of tarry ropes, creosote and linseed oil rising from deep within the vortex. A collision of waxy dark chocolate, warm blackcurrants and muscovado sugar pulls you under its spell with a burst of plump cherries and earthy pine needles leaping from its depths. From salty seasoning comes a briny character with tangy crisp seaweed and smoky bacon swirling on the surface with hints of sweet vanilla, spicy cloves and blueberries. Surrender to its dangerous depths with the heady force of menthol, treacle and chilli sauce.Palate: Plunge into the whirlpool and torrents of taste well up on the palate; deep, peppery and chewy, bombarding the tongue. The first plunge brings forth chewy peppered steak soaked in pepper sauce with the tang of crispy seaweed. As you descend deeper, encounter a mouthful of black tarry espresso coffee that coats the palate with rich melted dark fruits (blackcurrants, blueberries and cherries) and bitter almonds. As the taste soaks in deeper, star anise and hickory dry out the palate before a surprise of chalky effervescent violets fizz to the surface.Finish: Long, deep and remaining powerful into the finish with black tarry coffee, chocolate coated cherries and hot pepper sauce, the lingering memories of your mysterious and daring journey into Corryvreckan.
The Ledaig Triple Wood is an inaugural release, curated in collaboration with Tobermory Distillery's Island Ambassador and the renowned wildlife filmmaker Gordon Buchanan, marking a union of three iconic Ledaig single malts. This blend signifies the partnership among Tobermory Distillery, Gordon Buchanan, and the Mull and Iona Community Trust, a charitable associate in a strive to uphold, safeguard, and conserve the island of Mull in the Scottish Hebrides.
This luxurious whisky comprises three classic Ledaig single malts, each meticulously matured in distinct casks — Wine, Bourbon, and Port. These are expertly harmonized by Master Blender, Julieann Fernandez. The outcome is a distinctive, smoky whisky brimming with hints of apple, vanilla, smoky oak, toffee, and a lingering touch of maple syrup.
Tasting Note by Tobermory: Nose: Sweet nose with notes of poached pears dusted with cinnamon, creamy butterscotch and American cream soda.Palate: An initial burst of apple strudel an vanilla ice cream is balanced with cracked black pepper, wood smoke, toasted oak and treacle toffee.Finish: Lingering smoky finish with cloves and a touch of maple syrup.
In the first release of the Sinclair Series, this Ledaig Rioja Finish, absent of any age statement, showcases a captivating ruby-red coloration. This exceptional expression masterfully balances the allure of peat smoke with the seductive sweetness of Rioja wine. Remaining true to tradition, this whisky is left unaltered by chill-filtration and retains its natural color.
Crafted from heavily peated barley, it embarks on its maturation journey in ex-bourbon casks before undergoing a finishing period in meticulously chosen Spanish Rioja casks. The resultant single malt boasts a bold and dynamic flavor profile, encompassing nuances of smoky, spicy, grape-like, and sweet berry notes, with a lingering undercurrent of saltiness on the finish. Its vibrant and rich red hue mirrors the charm of esteemed Rioja wine.
Tasting Note by Tobermory:Nose: Notes of Turkish delight and rose petals balanced with candied fruits and grapes followed by rich leather and a beautiful peppery spice. A hint of chocolate comes through at the back.Palate: Creamy mouthfeel packed full of almonds, barley and sweet malt with notes of peppery Ledaig, which give way to black raspberries, sweet vanilla and cocoa interspersed with cinnamon spice and hints of freshly cut grass.Finish: Lingering smoky finish with red fruit and sea spray.
Bunnahabhain Stiùireadair, pronounced 'stew-rahdur,' means 'helmsman' in Scots Gaelic. This sherried malt whisky, unaltered in color and non-chill filtered, brings the coastal charm of Bunnahabhain Bay to your glass, with hints of sea spray and dried fruit.
Stiùireadair pays tribute to the Bunnahabhain Helmsman, an emblem of our heritage and enduring love for the sea. Crafted by our Master Blender, it combines sherry casks of different ages and origins to showcase the coastal essence of Bunnahabhain, while retaining the beloved sherry influence found in our famous 12-year-old whisky.
Tasting Note by Bunnahabhain:Nose: Dried fruit and creamy caramel with hints of brine, vanilla, nuts and a touch of spice.Palate: Creamy mouth feel with a dried fruit influence, sea salt, creamy caramel with hints of nuts and a gentle spice.Finish: Long and lingering with hints of dried fruit.
Torfa is a 2014 release from Glenglassaugh, marking a significant addition to Glenglassaugh portfolio. This expression is fully matured in ex-bourbon barrels and features a peat level of 20ppm (parts per million). Notably, Torfa represents the first peated whisky produced by this revived distillery.
Tasting Note by Glenglassaugh:Nose: Vivid, sweet, sooty campfire smoke and sea air infuses zest of lime, apricot jam and ripe soft fruits; all gently warmed by hints of stem ginger and cracked black pepper.Palate: An eloquent, sweet coastal peat smoke engulfs candied peel over melon, pineapple and roasted red apples. Oat biscuits, hints of heather honey and a gentle cigar box spice all combine to give a terrific balance to the expressive smoky character.Finish: A heady, yet elegant, harmony of distinct coastal peat and striking spiced fruit flavours.
Inspired by the rugged beauty of Traigh Bhan, the sixth batch captures the essence of the island's mysterious shores. Gentle hints of olive oil, tar, and chocolate ginger biscuit greet the senses, with a touch of peat smoke emerging with water. A bold wave of dark chocolate and smoked pineapple follows. The finish lingers with rich notes of coffee and liquorice.
Tasting Note by Ardbeg:Nose: A very curious hint of olive oil greets you, along with touches of tar, soot, chocolate ginger and even some freshly mown grass. Water opens the bouquet up to revel some more classic Ardbeg notes, with fennel, peppermint, eucalyptus, and tarry rope to the fore.Palate: The mouthfeel is slightly oily, and is followed by an intense, minty sweetness, along with some toasting bread, creosote, coal tar soap and even a whiff of smoked pineapple. The deep, rich, flavours continue, with dark chocolate, peppermint creams, bonfire embers and camphor.Finish: The finish is reminiscent of coffee grounds and liquorice.
Originating from a unique Scottish town on the west coast, once known as the 'Victorian Whisky Capital of the World', Glen Scotia embodies the resilience and pride of Campbeltown. It has been a unifying force for its people, especially in hard times. Surviving where about thirty other distilleries did not, it stands as a testament to the community's spirit. The Glen Scotia Victoriana, bottled at cask strength and finished in heavily-charred oak casks, boasts richly-spiced fruit, vanilla, and oak flavors, culminating in a gentle smoky finish.
Tasting Note by Glen Scotia: Nose: Crème Brûlée, melted sugars, caramelised fruits and oakPalate: Roasted sugars, blackcurrants, spiceFinish: Cocoa, dark chocolate, dark fruits
Distilled in 2013, this single vintage expression has undergone a decade of maturation. The ageing process involves a carefully chosen combination of casks: 80% of the whisky is matured in first-fill bourbon barrels, while the remaining 20% ages in second-fill Pauillac wine casks. This maturation strategy enhances the whisky's complexity and depth, offering a harmonious blend of the bourbon barrel's vanilla and oak notes with the rich, fruity nuances imparted by the Pauillac wine casks.
Tasting Note by Bruichladdich:Nose: Aromas of warm citrus, tropical fruit, and sweet malty flour are immediate on the nose. As the whisky opens the sweetness of the fruit, oak and malted Bere barley combine to give an uplifting, sunny feel to the dram, enhanced with fragrant peach skin, fresh vanilla pods, candied orange and creamy fudge. Over time, delicate floral notes of rose and subtle sweet violet appear.Palate: On the palate, the presence of the malted grain is unmistakable with notes of popcorn, brown sugar and warm porridge. The Bere barley provides a soft, rounded mouthfeel, beautifully complementing the sweet, stoned fruit notes. Apricot, peach, melon and candied orange are balanced with the gentle influence of the oak, which adds a hint of vanilla, coconut and marzipan.Finish: Milk chocolate, malted grain and crème brulee add to the soft finish, while a hint of mango and orange blossom honey linger.
The Bruichladdich Organic Barley 2012, crafted from 100% Scottish barley, epitomizes the synergy between single malt whisky and the land. This barley is cultivated sustainably, without relying on agrochemicals, fertilizers, or pesticides, thereby nurturing the soil in which it grows.
Tasting Note by Bruichladich: Nose: Distinct cereal notes open on the nose, with dried hay, barley straw and malty biscuit. A sweet combination of Crème brûlée, coconut, butterscotch, and vanilla from the oak follow while earthy barley grows over time, enhanced by floral notes and sweet dried apricot and pear.Palate: A creamy texture coats the palate, with a peppery hint of spice followed by floral heather honey. The malty character of the grain comes to the fore, with notes of warm scones and barley straw. The American oak adds an additional layer of sweetness, with fresh vanilla, marzipan and coconut. Adding a drop of water opens up the fruit and oak influence, revealing ripe gooseberry, pear and grapefruit along with sweet honeycomb and fudge.Finish: The malty character of the spirit is unmistakable on the finish, while almond and butterscotch notes from the oak linger.
Bere barley, acknowledged as Britain's oldest cultivated cereal strain, would have been utilized by Scotland's early distillers over many centuries. Nevertheless, in the 20th century, there was a shift towards prioritizing yield and commercial viability, leading to the selection of varieties that offered easier cultivation and higher extract, favoring efficiency over flavor.
In their commitment to championing flavor, the distillery has been working closely with the University of the Highlands and Islands' Agronomy Institute since 2005 to reintroduce Bere barley into the production of single malt whisky. However, the importance of this barley extends beyond whisky production, as it holds significant potential for the future of food production.
Sown in April and harvested in September, the 2011 growing season primarily witnessed warm and dry conditions, except during the crucial harvest period when rainfall became more frequent. Maturing patiently for over a decade in first-fill ex-bourbon casks, the understated maturation of the 2012 vintage carefully balances an indulgent texture with the presence of malty, sweet fruit notes.
Tasting Note by Bruichladdich:Nose: Complex and alluring, there is a wonderful combination of fruity and floral notes on the nose. Oak comes through with zesty lime and green apple, followed by fragrant honeysuckle and creamy vanilla. The Bere barley provides a tart robustness with hints of hay and barley sugar sweetness, with a peach note growing as the dram opens further.Palate: Firm and well rounded, Bere barley and stoned fruit glide across the palate bringing waves of apricot, ripe peach and stewed apple. Chocolate lime hints at the zesty richness of the spirit before barley sugar and warm scones bring a remarkable depth of flavour from the malt. Marine notes of sun kissed sand and sea shells follow, moving to marzipan, mellow oak and coconut.Finish: Long and delicate, the finish has notes of gingerbread, milk chocolate, marzipan, creamy vanilla and apricot jam. A subtle marine note lingers along with a hint of barley sugar.
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.
This young, lightly colored whisky hails from an undisclosed distillery in Scotland. It boasts an intense peatiness, as its bold name suggests, along with a delightful hint of citrusy fresh fruitiness. The packaging is quite attention-grabbing, featuring a fearsome monster and a deliberately scorched label. Bottled at a robust 46% ABV and left un-chillfiltered to retain its full character.
Tasting Note by Peat's Beast:Nose: A rugged fusion of sea spray, bonfire smoke, damp earth and spicy cinnamon immediately arouses the senses. These powerful aromas of peat moss and wet grass must be fully respected before seductive notes of crushed pear, apple and freshly baked bread provide the perfect finish to this memorable melody.Palate: Strong and bold with plenty of backbone and structure as this great monster unfolds its fiery fangs on your palate. This is not for the faint hearted. Take a generous mouthful with a biting wind blowing furiously in your face. Hold it long in your mouth allow the thick tar, peat smoke and creamy liquorice to penetrate every part of your tongue. Time will tame it.
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 flavors 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 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 their legend, a brilliant burst of light appeared in the dark sky above Oban, driven by a celestial entity. Oban, one of the oldest and smallest distilleries in Scotland, emerged in 1794, infusing a lively energy into its tranquil surroundings. Despite its diminutive size, its legendary essence has been foretold in the heavens for ages. The whisky undergoes maturation in refill and new American Oak barrels, followed by a double maturation process in casks previously seasoned with Sherry and Amontillado, resulting in a subtle aroma characterized by hints of maritime salt and sea breeze. Its creamy texture introduces a flavor profile filled with sweet notes of wine-poached spiced plum, harmoniously balanced by lively saltiness and spices, culminating in a finish with a touch of chili pepper. This Oban possesses an otherworldly character, where a rich, syrupy sweetness dances amid gentle wisps of smoke and salt.
Tasting Note by Oban:Nose: Gentle in feel, with no prickle. The top notes are faint at first yet grow easier to make out, studded with maritime hints of salt crystal, edible seaweed, and ozone-fresh sea air. As the senses adjust a very faint smokiness appears, infused with mere suggestions of lint and light olive oil, and a light note of lemon citrus fruit.Palate: The texture is soft and creamy-smooth, while the taste shines brightly with wine-fruit notes that carry hints of sweet violet and spiced plum. The fruit is balanced by a lively spiciness first met as saltiness mid-palate, then in a blazing dash of chili pepper. A little water softens the taste, taming the spiciness without altering the balance overall.Finish: Quite long and surprisingly peppery, leaving a smooth memory of chili pepper in the maritime aftertaste.
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.
This whisky is a highly secretive creation, crafted within the confines of our distillery, away from prying eyes and competitors. It represents our richest expression, curated from an archive of the rarest whiskies stored in our Atlantic warehouse.
This complex blend marries single malts aged from seven to 21 years, revealing vibrant character derived from ex-Bourbon, European oak, Oloroso sherry barrels, and quarter casks.
Tasting Note by Laphroaig:Nose: Rich and smoky with seaside minerals and a hint of ash and bitter chocolate drops.Palate: Richly peaty with a spicy chilli bite.Finish: Short, dry finish and a long sweet aftertaste.
Delicate and possessing a light body, this Cardhu expression is truly outstanding. It is complemented beautifully by an enigmatic hint of Parma violets, embodying the timeless grace of a flawless individual flower.
This Cardhu variation is a graceful and utterly enchanting creation, boasting fruity and meadow-sweet aromas. Its flavor profile is sweet, indulgent, and impeccably balanced, featuring a remarkable and unique floral note that adds to its allure.
Tasting Note by Cardhu:Nose: The mild nose is fresh and lightly fruity, as gentle aromas of white grape and lychee frolic with sharper hints of green apple, pear and a trace of orange zest, all enrobed by a hint of buttery pastry. Rising above these, a light spicy note reveals more of the wine-seasoned wood. A drop of water introduces a light note of meadow flowers, which become distinctly honeyed with time.Palate: A soft, creamy-smooth and quite full texture, the sweet taste suggesting home-made toffees. Soon, that taste becomes more fragrant and hints of Parma violets, a note further enriched by winey red apple and pear fruit and made more appetizing still by crisp, clean oak. A dash of water softens it to a delightful creamy-sweet freshness, leaving just a hint of spice.Finish: Short, sweet, clean and warming, with lingering perfume in the aftertaste. With water smoother still, as a warming pinch of white pepper appears, while there is a final burst of green apple in the aftertaste.
Distilled in 1997 at the legendary Laphroaig Distillery, this exceptional whisky has been carefully aged for 21 years to create a truly remarkable drinking experience. The nose reveals a captivating blend of roasted chestnuts and caramelized oranges, accompanied by an intense smokiness that is characteristic of Islay whiskies. With its exclusive bottling for Milroy's and individually numbered authenticity, this is a rare gem that deserves a place of honor in any whisky collection.
Tasting Note by The Character Of Islay:Nose: The aroma is reminiscent of roasted chestnuts and caramelized oranges, accompanied by intense smokiness and a hint of medicinal undertones. There is also a subtle touch of black tea.Palate: The taste offers a rich combination of smoky peat and chewy toffee sweetness. The presence of solid oak notes and a touch of briny seaweed adds complexity to the flavor.Finish: The finish is characterized by a delicate ash flavor and a lingering smokiness. It is accompanied by the presence of dates and oily walnuts, providing a satisfying conclusion.
The foundation for the Classic Laddie is not a fixed recipe, but rather a distilling philosophy. They don't pursue exact uniformity; instead, each year, the type and origin of their barley influence their spirit. Moreover, they continuously acquire a diverse range of casks to enrich the assortment of flavors in their warehouse. Instead of aiming for strict consistency, every batch of the Classic Laddie is naturally distinct and varies subtly.
Producing the Classic Laddie is among the most intricate and demanding tasks entrusted to their Head Distiller, Adam Hannett. He personally selects an assembly of the finest spirits to achieve the signature fruity and floral Bruichladdich house style.
Crafting each distinct recipe is an intensive procedure. Adam has to meticulously assess every spirit based on its aroma, taste, and texture. This process is time-consuming and challenging, necessitating a sharp focus and multiple checks, pauses, and reassessments over several weeks. The ultimate composition is determined in the solitude of his tasting room.
Tasting Note by Bruichladdich:Nose: The bouquet is brilliant. Opening with barley sugar and a hint of mint before leading into the most wonderful notes of freshly cut wild flowers; buttercup, daisy, meadowsweet, myrtle, primrose and cherry blossom. The cleanliness of the spirit is remarkable. As the seconds tick by, more aromas rise from the glass, little zephyrs of spindrift and sea pinks reminding you that this spirit is matured exclusively by the sea. After some four or five minutes and with the addition of a little water, caramelised fruits drift onto the scene; lemon drops and honey, tangerine and tablet.Palate: The palate entry is so refined and refreshing, the sweet oak and the barley arriving together sending the taste buds into raptures. The fruits from distillation drift in on an Atlantic breeze and pop on the tongue like champagne bubbles. A combination of ripe green fruit, brown sugar and sweet malt bring closure. A taste back in time, a realisation that not all single malts are equal and to achieve the absolute optimum, you must use barley that is made in Scotland. Make this one the benchmark for all others you meet on your journey through the stills of Scotland.Finish: Unforgettable! Its best enjoyed in good company, you just don’t want the evening to end. It brings warmth to the heart and soul. The clock slows down and the cares of tomorrow disappear into the dawn.
Benriach's Smoke Season Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky is a special edition that harkens back to the historical roots of the Speyside region. While Speyside is not commonly associated with heavily peated or smoky whiskies, records from the 19th century indicate that such styles were once a part of the region's distilling tradition.
This special edition whisky is crafted to celebrate the time of year when peated spirit runs through Benriach's stills, a tradition that was revived by the distillery over 50 years ago. Smoke Season is a small-batch release that showcases one of Benriach's time-honored production techniques.
What sets this whisky apart is its intense smokiness, balanced with exquisite sweetness. It undergoes a two-cask maturation process, aging in both American virgin oak and bourbon barrels. These wood types are intentionally chosen to enhance and amplify the toasted sweet notes present in Benriach's smoky spirit.
Master Blender Dr. Rachel Barrie has fine-tuned a new recipe for this expression, making it the most intensely smoked whisky ever released by the Benriach distillery. It's a unique and bold addition to the distillery's range, celebrating the rich history and craftsmanship of Speyside whisky-making.
Tasting Note by Benriach:Nose: Caramel smoke, oak spice, citrus peel.Palate: Smoked dark vanilla, seared apple, and cinnamon with lingering charred orange into a sweet and smoky finish.
Ardbeg Ten Years Old stands unparalleled, globally celebrated as the quintessence of peated whiskies. Renowned for its intense smokiness and rich complexity, this single malt doesn't merely parade its peaty essence. Instead, it artfully allows the innate sweetness of the malt to emerge, striking a harmonious balance that enchants the palate.
Maintaining its true essence, this whisky is non-chill filtered, preserving its authentic flavors and depth. Matured in ex-bourbon casks, it carries hints of the cask's history, adding another layer of complexity and character to this already distinguished spirit.
Tasting Note by Ardbeg:Nose: A burst of intense smoky fruit escapes into the atmosphere of peat infused with zesty lemon and lime, wrapped in waxy dark chocolate. Bold menthol and black pepper slice through the sweet smoke followed by tarry ropes and graphite. Savour the aroma of smoked fish and crispy bacon alongside green bell peppers, baked pineapple and pear juice. Add water and an oceanic minerality brings a breath of cool, briny seaspray. Waxed lemon and lime follows with coal tar soap, beeswax and herby pine woodlands. Toasted vanilla and sizzling cinnamon simmer with warm hazelnut and almond toffee.Palate: An explosion of crackling peat sets off millions of flavour explosions: peat effervesces with tangy lemon and lime juice, black pepper pops with sizzling cinnamon-spiced toffee. Then comes a wave of brine infused with smooth buttermilk, ripe bananas and currants. Smoke gradually wells up on the palate bringing a mouthful of warm creamy cappuccino and toasted marshmallows. As the taste lengthens and deepens, dry espresso, liquorice root and tarry smoke develop coating the palate with chewy peat oils.Finish: The finish goes on and on a long and smoky with tarry espresso, aniseed, toasted almonds and traces of soft barley and fresh pear.
Indulge in the exquisite taste of Talisker 10 Year Old 2009 (Old Particular). This limited edition whisky is a true gem, with only 376 bottles in existence. Each bottle has been meticulously selected by Douglas Laing, ensuring uncompromising quality and a truly exceptional drinking experience. From the moment you take your first sip, you'll be transported to the rugged shores of the west coast. The nose reveals the enticing aroma of a smoky beach bonfire, mingling with the freshness of rock pools and the sweetness of salted caramel chews. As the whisky caresses your palate, you'll be greeted by the perfect marriage of fresh malted barley and the briny essence of seaweed. The subtle notes of charcoal and rubber add depth and complexity, while the delicate touch of sea salt leaves a lingering impression. But it doesn't end there. The finish is nothing short of extraordinary. A symphony of flavors unfolds, with the warmth of ginger spice, the tanginess of lemon drops, and the gentle embrace of peat. The subtle hints of cured ham and the richness of burnt toffee add a decadent touch, leaving you craving for more. Not only does this Talisker 10 Year Old 2009 (Old Particular) offer a captivating flavor profile, but it also boasts a visually stunning presentation. Presented in premium gift tubes, this whisky is not only a drink of unparalleled quality but also a visual delight. The highly informative labels provide a glimpse into the craftsmanship and passion that went into creating this masterpiece. Whether you're a whisky connoisseur or a curious explorer of fine spirits, this limited edition Talisker 10 Year Old 2009 (Old Particular) is a must-have addition to your collection. Don't miss out on the opportunity to savor the rare and exclusive taste of this exceptional whisky.
Tasting Note by Douglas Laing & Co: Nose: Smoky beach bonfire, west coast rock pools and salted caramel chewsPalate: Fresh malted barley married with seaweed, charcoal, rubber and sea saltFinish: Long with ginger spice, lemon drops, gentle peat, cured ham and burnt toffee (CGL)
