Laphroaig Distillery has stood on the southern shore of Islay since 1815, producing what remains one of the most distinctive and recognisable single malts in the world. The Ian Hunter series pays homage to the last member of the Johnston family to own and manage the distillery, a man whose vision shaped Laphroaig's identity in ways that endure to this day. It was Ian Hunter who introduced American oak ex-bourbon barrels to the maturation process following his travels to the United States, and who established the malting floors that remain in use at the distillery. Book 5: Enduring Spirit is the fifth and final instalment in this celebrated series.
This 34 year old expression is matured exclusively in American oak ex-bourbon barrels, a direct nod to Ian Hunter's own legacy within the distillery's production history. As the culmination of a rare and collectable series of aged single malts, the Enduring Spirit represents both a tribute to one remarkable individual and a testament to Laphroaig's enduring character across decades of patient maturation.
Tasting Note by Laphroaig: Nose: Lightly peaty with notes of iodine and burnt wood. Floral green malt, sweet candyfloss and vanilla fudge, and subtle blueberry and raspberry accents. .Palate: Sweet and spicy, with hints of classic Laphroaig peat and cold barbecue ash. Salted caramel and butterscotch, roast chestnut, a hint of peach, dried flowers and white pepper.Finish: Peaty and malty, with a lingering sweetness.
Distilled in 1999, this whisky was sequentially matured in three types of sherry casks—Amontillado on 4 November 2009, Oloroso on 20 June 2011, and Manzanilla on 12 September 2016. The result is a splendid burst of sherry character, enriched with notes of creamy fudge, vanilla pods, and a hint of tobacco. This distinctive dram is exceptionally rare, with only 4,002 individually numbered bottles available worldwide. It combines the finest sherry finishes synonymous with Bunnahabhain—Amontillado, Manzanilla, and Oloroso—and is presented at cask strength with an ABV of 53.3%. True to its Islay origins, it is unpeated, with no added colour and is non-chill filtered.
Tasting Note by Bunnahabhain:Nose: Freshly baked almond pastries are met with sweet berries, creamy fudge, rose petals and a hint of desiccated coconut.Palate: Fresh vanilla pods, butterscotch and creamy strawberries are balanced with honeyed cashews, wood spice and a gentle hint of tobacco.Finish: Dry finish with pine needles and blackcurrants
Bunnahabhain 21 Year Old Cask Strength 2025 Release is a rare limited edition matured in ex Oloroso sherry casks before undergoing a long 21 month finish in hand selected Pedro Ximénez casks. This extended maturation brings indulgent layers of raisins, chocolate dipped cherries, roasted nuts and warming spice. Bottled at natural cask strength with no added colour, this is a whisky shaped by patience and the unmistakable coastal soul of Islay.
This release is limited to just 2568 bottles worldwide.
Tasting Note by Bunnahabhain:Nose: Rich dried fruits, treacle toffee and brown sugar lead, with hints of walnut, leather and a whisper of coastal clarity.Palate: Sweet PX soaked raisins and chocolate cherries lead, with roasted nuts, spiced oak, espresso and warming cinnamon and clove on the finish.Finish: Long and warming with dark chocolate, prunes and a touch of sea spray.
Distilled on the storm-swept southern shore of Islay, Laphroaig has been producing some of the world's most recognisable and uncompromising single malts since 1815. The distillery's defining character comes from its own floor maltings, where barley is dried over a peat fire cut from the mossy bogs directly behind the buildings, and from the cold Atlantic air that shapes every cask as it matures in the warehouses facing the sea. That combination of place, process and patience is what makes Laphroaig one of the most distinctive addresses in Scotch whisky.
Batch 17 of the Cask Strength expression is bottled without chill-filtration or water reduction, preserving the full natural character of the spirit exactly as it leaves the barrel. At 58.3% ABV, this is Laphroaig at its most direct and unadulterated, a release that rewards those who want to explore the distillery's signature interplay of sweet fruit, coastal salinity and deep Islay peat. A serious addition to any collection, and a compelling choice for the whisky enthusiast who already knows what they love.
Tasting Note by Laphroaig:Nose: Sweet, vibrant and smoky, with notes of candied apple slices, crème brûlée, sugared pastries and warming peat smoke.Palate: Initially sweet and fruity, with stewed apple, vanilla cream and pears in syrup, followed by a wave of sea salt, earthy peat and crisp seaweed.Finish: Very long, with black pepper spice, antique leather and a sweet grassy smoke that fades into a tarry peat aroma.
Laphroaig 10 Year Old Cask Strength (Batch 15) is a robust expression of Laphroaig's classic 10 Year Old, boasting a bold character and an impressive 56.5% ABV. This single malt matures in charred ex-Bourbon barrels for a full decade before being bottled at its natural cask strength, preserving its powerful and distinctive flavours.
Tasting Note by Laphroaig:Nose: The nuanced aroma reveals whiffs of sweet cereals, fresh oak and pipe tobacco with touches of leather, nutmeg and vanilla.Palate: The Original Cask Strength is sweet and spicy with notes of vanilla, toffee and sea salt along with hints of cinnamon and pepper.Finish: Long finish with lingering spice, oak tannins, iodine and sea salt.
Situated on the shores of Loch Indaal on Islay, Bowmore is one of Scotland's oldest distilleries, established in 1779. Its position on the loch exposes its legendary No. 1 Vaults, the oldest maturation warehouse in Scotch whisky, directly to the sea, lending the distillery's expressions their characteristic interplay of maritime influence and gentle peat. This 14 Year Old was crafted exclusively for Global Travel Retail, drawing on Bowmore's longstanding reputation for complexity and its willingness to explore cask influence with genuine creativity.
The whisky is first matured for 14 years in American oak ex-Bourbon casks, building the distillery's assertive, layered character before a finishing period in Bordeaux wine barriques sourced from some of France's most distinguished wineries. The Bordeaux finish introduces a lighter, brighter dimension that sits in considered contrast to Bowmore's naturally robust style, the result of a collaboration rooted in a shared respect for terroir, heritage and patient craft. Bottled exclusively for the travel retail channel, this is a distinctive and collection-worthy expression that rewards those with an adventurous palate.
Tasting Note by Bowmore: Nose: Ripe cherries. Palate: Salty, drying and spicy, yielding to a rousing, expressive orchestra of rich fruit. Finish: Raspberries, cherries and strawberries, resolving to an adventurous bitter dark chocolate.
A testament to careful maturation, this complex 15 Year Old Sherry Oak Cask expression balances sweetness with gentle spice in a composed and layered profile. Aged for no less than fifteen years, it draws character from both European Oak Oloroso Sherry casks and American Oak ex-Bourbon casks, before being finished in European Oak casks seasoned with Oloroso Sherry. The result is a nuanced whisky, where indulgent sweetness meets subtle spiced undertones in harmonious fashion.
Tasting Note by Bowmore:Nose: Moist Corinth raisins and sweet dates. Cinnamon, dark chocolate, and enveloped in subtle smoke.Palate: Cedarwood, treacle toffee, boiled sweet confectionery, clove spice and liquorice root.Finish: Intriguingly rich and wooded, revealing contented sweet spice.
Octomore 15.1 is a bold, heavily peated single malt made from 100% Scottish barley. Aged in a combination of bourbon and re-charred ex-bourbon casks, it offers a compelling blend of creamy vanilla, sweet charred oak, and intense peat smoke—a true showcase of Octomore’s signature strength and elegance.
Tasting Note by Bruichladdich:Nose: Caramel and vibrant citrus open on the nose, delicately wrapped in Octomore’s dry, earthy peat smoke. Spicy aniseed, vanilla and smooth custard follow, with a tropical fruit, geranium and a hint of ginger complementing the sweet malt.Palate: Immediate heat on the palate is balanced with sweet dry malt and earthy smoke. A refreshing medley of mango, banana and apricot jam cuts through the heady peat, beautifully rounded with vanilla custard and toffee. A drop of water allows the smoke to open and brings subtle marine notes and warm sand.Finish: Peat smoke, vanilla and sweet charred oak settle on the finish, with a fresh marine crispness.
Founded in 1881 on the remote northern shore of Islay, Bunnahabhain sits at the end of a single-track road on the Sound of Islay, making it one of the most isolated and characterful distilleries in Scotland. Its unusually tall, pear-shaped stills with elongated swan necks produce a lighter, oilier spirit than its Islay neighbours, and the distillery is notably one of the few on the island to work with unpeated barley. Mineral-rich water drawn from the Margadale Spring, sea air rolling in off the Sound, and a philosophy of non-chill filtration without added colour define the Bunnahabhain house style across every expression.
Turas Math No.1 is the opening release in the Westering Home Collection, a three-part series rooted in the distillery's maritime heritage. The whisky is a marriage of two exceptional cask journeys, personally selected by Master Blender Julieann Fernandez. The first parcel was distilled in 2008 and spent its full 15 years maturing in Manzanilla Sherry casks from Jerez. The second parcel matured for a decade in refill casks before receiving a five-year finish in Amarone wine casks from the Veneto region of Italy. The union of these two paths produces a whisky of layered sweetness, coastal character and considered complexity, bottled at cask strength without chill-filtration or added colour. A compelling collector's release and an equally distinguished gift.
Tasting Note by Bunnahabhain:Nose: A burst of dark fruits including black cherries, plums, and blackberries, intertwined with cloves and roasted nuts.Palate: Fresh cinnamon pastries and treacle toffee blend with hazelnut, dried figs, and soft herbal notes.Finish: Warm spices linger on the palate, accented by a hint of sea spray.
One of just 201 bottles released worldwide, the Bowmore 40 Year Old 2023 Release is a whisky of extraordinary rarity and pedigree, forming part of the distillery's Ultimate Rare Collection. Established in 1779 on the shores of Loch Indaal on Islay, Bowmore is among the oldest distilleries in Scotland, and this 40 Year Old represents the very pinnacle of what four decades of patient maturation in exceptional casks can produce.
The whisky has been matured in a combination of American oak ex-bourbon barrels and sherry-seasoned European oak hogsheads, with a significant portion receiving an extended finish in first-fill Spanish oak Oloroso sherry casks. The result is a spirit of profound depth and concentration — deeply coloured, richly layered and shaped by the full weight of 40 years' cask influence, all underpinned by Bowmore's characteristic whisper of Islay peat. With just 201 bottles in existence, this is an unrepeatable collector's release of the highest distinction.
Tasting Note by Bowmore:Nose: Warm sweetness with juicy papaya and passion fruit, layered with rich cocoa and soft butterscotch.Palate: Smooth and fragrant with notes of tobacco leaves, walnut cake, buttery sweetness and a subtle whisper of peat smoke.Finish: Fresh, timeless and deeply rewarding, lingering with rich intensity and refined balance.
Bowmore Distillery has stood on the shores of Loch Indaal on Islay since 1779, and the Timeless series represents some of the most exceptional whisky the distillery has produced. This 29 Year Old Limited Edition was filled in 1991 and 1992, making it a genuine artefact of a specific moment in Bowmore's history, and a rare opportunity for collectors and serious enthusiasts alike.
Matured in a combination of sherry-seasoned European oak casks and ex-bourbon American oak barrels, the whisky has spent nearly three decades developing the interwoven layers of complexity that define this expression. Bottled at cask strength of 53.7% ABV, the Timeless 29 Year Old is an immersive and indelible whisky that rewards patience in equal measure to the time invested in its creation.
Tasting Notes by Bowmore:Nose: Expressive dark fruits, the sweet aromas of cocoa and bitter orange, infused with cherry blossom and liquorice. Palate: Rich and layered, reflecting a depth of sweetness while evoking peat and sea salt flavours. Finish: Mouth warming, then peat drying and salt on the lips with a long lasting finish, bursting with intention.
Ardbeg Vintage Y2K marks a pivotal moment in the distillery’s history, celebrating the year 2000 as the beginning of its modern revival. Following The Glenmorangie Company’s acquisition in 1997, Ardbeg underwent extensive renovation, and by the millennium, production was reignited, ushering in a new era for Islay’s legendary distillery.
This 24 Year Old expression brings together spirit distilled on Ardbeg’s old stills with innovative modern techniques. Matured in a combination of ex-bourbon and hand-selected Amontillado sherry casks, it showcases Dr Bill Lumsden’s favourite style of sherry, adding depth and elegance to Ardbeg’s trademark smoky intensity. Released to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Ardbeg Committee, Vintage Y2K is a unique fusion of old and new, representing a true smoky anomaly in the distillery’s story.
Tasting Notes by Ardbeg:Nose: Deep, pungent and spicy with creamy toffee, flowering blackcurrant, creosote, coal tar soap, antique leather and almond nuts. With water, notes of charcoal, graphite and damp moss emerge, finishing with a distinct sooty character.Palate: Powerful and smoky with coal tar, woodsmoke and antiseptic lozenges intertwined with bonfire embers. Subtle notes of toffee, leather, cinnamon and clove emerge from the Amontillado influence.Finish: Long and lingering with menthol, eucalyptus, linseed oil and charcoal.
Established in 1779 on the shores of Loch Indaal on Islay, Bowmore is one of Scotland's oldest distilleries and one of the few remaining to operate its own traditional floor maltings, where barley is turned by hand over peat fires cut from the island's ancient bogs. The distillery's No.1 Vaults, which sit below sea level at the water's edge, provide some of the most distinctive maturation conditions in Scotland, where the cool, damp air and the proximity of the sea exert a quiet but unmistakable influence on every cask stored within. It is this union of place, peat and time that defines Bowmore's character across all its expressions.
The 2022 Annual Release of the 30 Year Old is a rare and limited expression, nurtured over three unhurried decades in Sherry hogsheads and Bourbon barrels, a combination that builds extraordinary complexity whilst allowing Bowmore's fabled peat smoke to evolve into something refined and deeply integrated. Inspired by the terrain surrounding the distillery, from the detailed markings of driftwood to the polished translucence of sea glass, this release reflects the distillery's eternal connection with the Islay landscape. As a collector's release and as a gift for a truly significant occasion, the 2022 30 Year Old is among the most considered propositions in the premium single malt category.
Tasting Note by Bowmore:Nose: Expressive and layered, led by the sweetness of heather honey. Notes of banana and peach unfold alongside pineapple, vanilla and soft butterscotch.Palate: Tropical in character, with fruit-forward depth and a gentle honeyed core. Soft peat smoke lingers in the background, complemented by a cool hint of eucalyptus.Finish: Calm and lingering, leaving a gentle warmth and the lasting impression of ripe fruit.
A robust cask strength 21 year old matured predominantly in ex-Oloroso Sherry butts before spending a further 21 months finishing in Pedro Ximénez casks. Sherried, honeyed and unpeated, this limited edition release offers rich depth and natural sweetness. Bottled at 53.6% ABV with limited availability.
Tasting Note by Bunnahabhain:Nose: Sweet nose with notes of dried fruit, nutmeg spice, honey, caramelised walnuts and a gentle touch of oak.Palate: Initial spicy notes of cinnamon and clove fade to reveal grape syrup which coats the palate, with raisins, figs, candied cherries and a hint of liquorice.Finish: Lingering spicy finish of toasted coffee and cocoa.
A bold exploration of distillation at Laphroaig, Elements 3.0 is the third release in the series. Born from an unexpected fire in the kiln, the peat was burned longer and hotter than usual, resulting in a distinctively intense single malt. Distilled from malt resting directly above the kiln floor, this whisky reflects how even subtle changes in distillation can profoundly influence flavour. Fully matured in American oak ex-bourbon casks.
Tasting Note by Laphroaig:Nose: Charcoal, chocolate and spice. deep smouldering charred peat notes layered with a wash of maritime brine. sweet and citrusy; vanilla, lemon zest and butterscotch. a hint of cinnamon spice, plums and dates draws you in and invites you to take a sipPalate: A roar of intense peaty characters which tingle and warms the palette, intermingled with notes of roasted cocoa beans and bitter dark chocolate. as the rich phenolic characters subside, a tangy fruitiness comes to the fore with the introduction of blackberry, plum, and gooseberry notes with indulgent characters of a crème brûléeFinish: Long lasting and drying, with elongated notes of iodine, leather and sooty chimney smoke
With its deep autumnal hue and considered maturation, this 21 Year Old expression reveals a richly layered and distinctive character. Aged in hand-selected ex-Bourbon and Oloroso Sherry casks, and finished in first fill Pedro Ximénez Sherry wood, it offers a compelling interplay of flavours. From earthy notes of tobacco leaf and heather to the sweetness of toffee treacle and beeswax, the whisky displays remarkable breadth and complexity. Its final chapter in Pedro Ximénez Sherry casks is a quiet tribute to the instinctive craftsmanship of the Master Blender.
Tasting Note by Bowmore:Nose: A complex tapestry of tobacco leaves and heather, sweetened by rich toffee treacle and beeswax.Palate: A complex, cosmopolitan mix of sweetness, barbecued meat, berries and a whisper of salty smokiness.Finish: Rounded, sweet woods and gentle smoke linger expressively on the tongue as a lasting memory.
The Bowmore 18 Year Old Sherry Cask presents a well-balanced interplay between bright citrus notes and the soft, recognisable presence of the distillery’s signature peat. Matured in carefully chosen ex-Bourbon and Oloroso Sherry casks, and finished in Pedro Ximénez Sherry wood, this expression is marked by both depth and composure. Its maturation journey brings together varied fruit tones and gentle peat, resulting in a whisky that is at once expressive and measured, with a layered complexity that reflects Bowmore’s distinctive character.
Tasting Note by Bowmore:Nose: A sweet symphony of rich dark chocolate and cocoa beans, with zesty citrus and a rich peatiness.Palate: Sensationally layered orange peel, moist sultanas, aniseed spice, and cocoa beans.Finish: Powerfully and expressively fruity, with immense depth and complexity.
The 12 Year Old is gently matured in carefully hand-selected Oloroso sherry and ex-bourbon casks. Resolving with an Oloroso sherry cask finish creates extraordinary layers of rich sensory discovery. Its gentle maturation in meticulously chosen Oloroso sherry and ex-bourbon casks gives it an intriguing yet inviting complexity.
Tasting Note by Bowmore:Nose: Intricate layers to explore, from mouth-watering vanilla caramel, red berries, and marzipan, to hints of dried fruit.Palate: A carnival of ripe pears, lemon juice, cinnamon, toasted almonds and peaches in syrup, as smoke levels crescendo.Finish: Our 12-Year Old resolves with clear intent, offering a pleasingly long and spicy finale.
Octomore 15.2 is an exceptional single malt whisky, showcasing the unique combination of American oak, red wine, and French ex-cognac cask maturation. Crafted from 100% Scottish barley and peated to 108.2 PPM, this expression offers a compelling comparison to its 15.1 counterpart, highlighting Octomore’s distinctive character and innovative approach to whisky-making.
Tasting Note by Bruichladdich:Nose: Sweet citrus, lime zest and lemon meringue pie open on the nose, followed by toasted oak and a hint of earthy smoke. A medley of tropical fruit enhances the vibrancy of the single malt whisky, balanced with woody spices, smoked honey, toasted bread, and roasted coffee.Palate: Viscous in texture, the sumptuously smooth spirit brings vanilla custard, caramel, toffee and a crack of black pepper. Charred oak, cinnamon and a hint of nutmeg provide added depth with pear drops and dried apricot cutting through Octomore’s inimitable peat smoke.Finish: An unmistakable maritime quality lands on a finish, with waves of salt spray settling on the palate while peat embers linger.
The year 2000 was pivotal for Ardbeg, marking the renovation of the distillery and the creation of rare stock by Dr. Bill Lumsden and his team. As a limited series blending modern techniques with old stills, the Vintage Y2K stands out as a smoky anomaly with an unparalleled story.
Tasting Note by Ardbeg:Nose: Herbal, sweet and fragrant, with a subtle, distant perfumed smokiness. Next a quirky, zesty note like lemon balsam emerges, along with a suggestion of linseed oil and candied walnuts. A splash of water and the fragrance intensifies, emitting heather honey, a touch of creosote and the tiniest trace of tent canvas.Palate: The texture is fizzy and effervescing (sherbety), with a real, vibrant effervescence on the tongue. At first the flavour is intensely sweet, then shifts as aniseed, toffee, digestive biscuits, peppermint, menthol, tar and coffee grits burst through.Finish: The sooty/tarry flavours keep building, until they finally dissolve into a long, lingering aftertaste of antiseptic lozenges, bitter oranges and oak tannins.
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.
The Port Charlotte Islay Barley 2014 is a sophisticated single malt whisky, known for its subtle yet intricate blend of fruit and smoke. It's made from 100% Islay Concerto and Propino barley, heavily peated and distilled in 2014 from the 2013 harvest. Aged for seven years, its maturation involves 84% in first-fill bourbon casks, with the remaining portion split between second-fill Virgin oak and wine casks. This maturation profile creates a unique balance, further characterized by a phenol level of 40 PPM and a robust 50% ABV, culminating in a whisky that is complex, yet quietly harmonious.
Tasting Note by Bruichladdich:Nose: Malty digestive biscuits and peat embers open on the nose, followed by sweet vanilla and notes of honey, toffee and Crème Brûlée. As the whisky breathes its fruity character comes to the fore, with lemon rind and peat smoke rising from the glass, moving to grapefruit, ripe melon, peach and crisp red apple. Port Charlotte’s signature maritime note is offset with a touch of wood spice, nutmeg and cinnamon, showcasing the depth and complexity of this single malt.Palate: An initial citrus tang is followed by sweet ripe fruit and gentle peat smoke. A subtle marine character comes through, with this sandy minerality complemented with toasted oak. On a second sip, the balance of fruit and smoke is unmistaken, with a medley of apricot, peach and ripe melon delicately wrapped in charred heather and peat embers. The maturation in American bourbon barrels brings lightly toasted oak notes, with a hint of coconut, creamy marzipan and tobacco.Finish: Soft stoned fruit and toasted oak sweetness leave a beautifully balanced finish, while a subtle, dry barbeque smoke lingers.
Carefully nestled within the finest hand-picked oak casks and afforded the luxury of maturing at its own unhurried rhythm, this stands as an exceptional and flawlessly balanced single malt Scotch whisky. Among Bowmore's most elusive offerings, Bowmore 18 Year Old may have limited availability, but the enjoyment it offers is boundless.
Tasting Note by Bowmore:Nose: Creamy caramel toffee, with ripe fruit and smoke aromas.Palate: Incredibly complex, with beautiful soft fruit and chocolate balanced with a light smokiness.Finish: The long and wonderfully balanced finish.
Emanating the very spirit of Bowmore, with its tumultuous waves, windswept terrain, and rich heritage, this 12-year-old expression embodies a harmonious blend of complexity and balance. Delicate notes of lemon and the sweetness of heather honey harmonize seamlessly with Bowmore's signature peat smoke, culminating in a gratifying, enduring, and mellowness that defines this remarkable whiskey.
Tasting Note by Bowmore:Nose: Subtle lemon and honey, balanced beautifully by Bowmore's trademark peaty smokiness.Palate: Warm and delicious on the palate with subtle dark chocolate flavours.Finish: Trademark gentle peat smoke, leading to a delicious, long and mellow finish.
Bowmore Distillery stands at the heart of Islay, on the shores of Loch Indaal, and has been producing single malt since 1779, making it one of the island's oldest and most celebrated distilleries. The 25 Year Old sits within Bowmore's permanent collection, a rare and considered expression that represents a quarter of a century of patient maturation and the distillery's mastery of balancing Islay smoke with elegance and refinement.
Matured in a combination of hand-selected American oak ex-bourbon casks and European oak Oloroso sherry casks, the whisky is finished in sherry casks, a process that draws together layers of dried fruit, oak and the distillery's signature coastal smoke. Remarkable even by Bowmore's own standards, this is a whisky of genuine poise and discretion, worthy of both the collector's cabinet and unhurried contemplation.
Tasting Note by Bowmore:Nose: Rich, intense notes of dried plums and sultanas, complemented by the sharp, fresh tang of raspberries, and creamy vanilla custard.Palate: Confectionery and stone fruits dance on the palate. Soft toffee and hazelnuts warm the soul.Finish: Sweet smoke teases the tongue. A last, lingering dimension in the 25 Year Old's sensory journey.
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.
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.
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.
The latest addition to Bunnahabhain's core range, this inaugural 30-year-old batch is a testament to our craft. It matures exclusively in coastal ex-sherry casks, remains unaltered with non-chill filtration and natural colour, resulting in a rich, sweet dram.
Three decades of patience and meticulous care, shaped by Bunnahabhain Bay's salty air, go into crafting this whisky under our Distillery Manager's watchful eye. It offers notes of strawberries, cream, honey nut cereals, rich toffee, and a finish of salted caramel and light spices. This is a limited first batch release that's not to be missed.
Tasting Note by Bunnahabhain:Nose: Aromas of butterscotch, beeswax and sweet sherry.Palate: Strawberries and cream dominate the palate, gradually developing into honey nut cereals and an abundance of rich toffee.Finish: Notes of sweetened Jamaican coffee and oak wood.
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.
Laphroaig 10 Year Old Sherry Oak Finish stands out as a remarkable expression. It combines the unforgettable flavours of the classic 10 Year Old Laphroaig with the sweet and complex influence of Oloroso sherry casks. This unique whisky begins with the same traditional process, aging in ex-Bourbon barrels, before it rests in Oloroso sherry casks to gain extra depth and character. Each sherry oak cask is hand-selected to create a truly exceptional single malt.
Tasting Note by Laphroaig:Nose: Sweet and peaty with medicinal notes of Manuka honey, hospital bandages, antiseptic lotion, Germolene, strong cloves aroma but also grilled smoky bacon, a distinctive character of sweet leather, iodine and pine tar.Palate: Sweet and aromatic, with rich wax and furniture polish notes followed by treacle toffee, maple syrup, bitter dark chocolate combined with pencil shavings, pine needle and cedar scented wood.Finish: Finished in European oak Oloroso sherry barrels.
Laphroaig Quarter Cask pays homage to an old whisky transportation tradition involving smaller quarter casks. These diminutive barrels enhance the whisky's flavor by increasing contact with the wood, augmenting the characteristics of spirits initially matured in ex-Bourbon barrels. The result is a delightful interplay of coconut, banana, and vanilla notes complementing Laphroaig's signature heavy peat flavor. The whisky culminates in a lengthy, sweet, and smoky finish. To preserve the character developed in these small but impactful barrels, this quarter cask whisky undergoes barrier filtration.
Tasting Note by Laphroaig:Nose: Burning embers of peat in a crofter's fireplace, hints of coconut and banana aromas.Palate: Deep, complex and smoky yet offers and surprises the palate with a gentle sweetness.Finish: Really long, and dries appropriately with smoke and spice.
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.
Uigeadail, named after Gaelic words for "a dark, mysterious place," is a whisky that encapsulates the essence of its peat-rich water source, Loch Uigeadail. It's a captivating blend of sweetness, spice, and smokiness, thanks to aging in ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks. The unique vatting technique of Ardbeg Uigeadail melds smoky notes from ex-bourbon American oak with the sweet richness of ex-sherry Oloroso casks, creating a whisky of profound depth and character. This non-chill filtered whisky, with no age statement, boasts a 54.2% ABV and a deep gold color, offering an invitation to explore its complex flavors.
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.
One of the esteemed "super-premium" selections within Bunnahabhain's core range, this whisky also stands as a formidable champion in the realm of awards. True to the tradition of all their single malts, it remains unaltered by chill filtration and retains its natural color.
Under the profound influence of sherry, their 25 Year Old expression aptly showcases the remarkable maturation capabilities of Bunnahabhain. It exemplifies the intricate spectrum of sweet oaken nuances and nutty notes that can be attained through those additional years of aging in the cask.
Tasting Note by Bunnahabhain:Nose: Scents of rich sherry, blossoming into sweet caramel and polished leather.Palate: An initial taste of sweet berries and cream that evolves into a feast of roasted nuts and malt.Finish: Soft and dry with a delicate hint of sweet sugar and spiced oak that linger long on the tongue.
Bunnahabhain's Toiteach A Dhà combines peated malted barley with a strong sherry influence for a truly unique experience.
Translated as 'Smoky Two' in Scots Gaelic, it follows the original peaty expression. Crafted from a blend of ex-Bourbon and Sherry casks matured in our coastal warehouses, this whisky offers a subtle smoky character, lively strength, and a lingering, sweet sherry influence.
Tasting Note by Bunnahabhain:Nose: Intriguing peatiness with hints of sherry and rich oak.Palate: Immediate warming peatiness drift to a sweet Oloroso sherry influence with rich oak, balanced with delicate pepper.Finish: Robust length for the discerning palate.
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.
Founded in 1881 on the remote northern shore of Islay, Bunnahabhain sits at the end of a single-track road on the Sound of Islay, only accessible by boat until 1960. Unlike most of its island neighbours, Bunnahabhain is celebrated for its unpeated house style, producing a lighter, oilier spirit from its unusually tall, pear-shaped stills whose elongated swan necks prevent heavier flavour compounds from reaching the cut. Mineral-rich water drawn from the Margadale Spring, sea air rolling in directly off the Sound, and a commitment to non-chill filtration without added colour define every expression across the range.
Eighteen years of coastal maturation in Sherry casks transforms Bunnahabhain's naturally gentle spirit into something of genuine richness and depth. The extended time in wood draws out layers of dried fruit, honeyed nuttiness and warming spice, whilst the distillery's seafront warehouses leave their mark in the faintest whisper of sea salt that runs through the palate. Bottled at 46.3% ABV without chill-filtration, this is a classic example of what patient, sherry-led maturation achieves when the spirit beneath it is given the time and environment it deserves. A compelling addition to any collection and a well-considered gift for those who appreciate depth over showmanship.
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.
Being the original member of Bunnahabhain's current Core Range, the Bunnahabhain 12 Year Old occupies a special place in their hearts. It was first introduced in 1979, and its longevity of nearly four decades owes much to the dedication and commitment of the distillery team, as well as the affection and support from fans and friends worldwide.
This 12 year old expression has established the standard and tone for the rest of their collection, demanding nothing but excellence. It undergoes a double maturation process in Ex Bourbon and Ex Sherry Casks, resulting in a whisky of exquisite richness and full-bodied character, striking the ideal equilibrium between Bunnahabhain's distinctive nutty and sherry notes.
Tasting Note by Bunnahabhain:Nose: Fresh and aromatic, fruity floral with hints of dried fruit and a subtle prevalence of smoke.Palate: Light with fruit notes, nutty flavours with a sweetness and slight hints of vanilla and caramel.Finish: Lingering, beautifully rich and full-bodied.
