The Macallan's third A Night on Earth release celebrates year-end traditions, inspired by Nochevieja in Jerez de la Frontera, Spain. Crafted by The Macallan Whisky Mastery Team, this single malt matures in European and American sherry seasoned oak casks. Reflecting on togetherness and tradition, it captures the spirit of New Year's Eve. Special packaging, designed with Jerez native Maria Melero, enhances the festive experience.
The Macallan Rare Cask is truly an extraordinary whisky. It is meticulously crafted from the finest and rarest sherry seasoned oak casks, a testament to the expertise and dedication of The Macallan Whisky Mastery Team. Their passion and creativity shine through as they unearth these exceptional casks, resulting in a whisky of unparalleled quality. The deep ruby mahogany color of Rare Cask is just the beginning of its allure.
Tasting Note by Macallan:Nose: Soft notes of vanilla with rich raisin, followed by a sweet fusion of fresh apple, lemon and orange.Palate: An intense sweet raisin dominates before giving way to vanilla and dark chocolate, with layers of light citrus zest.Finish: Long, rich and velvety.
The Macallan Double Cask 18 Years Old is a meticulously crafted single malt whisky that achieves perfect balance through its 18 year maturation in a combination of American and European sherry seasoned oak casks. The influence of sherry seasoned American oak imparts delicate vanilla notes, while the subtle spice from European oak contributes to the whisky's sweeter and warmer character. It's a harmonious expression of The Macallan's dedication to creating exceptional whisky.
Tasting Note by Macallan:Nose: Dried fruit, ginger and toffee. Rich orange with hints of clove and nutmeg.Palate: Rich raisin and sultana with notes of caramel, vanilla and ginger, balanced by wood spice and zesty citrus.Finish: Warm oak spice with ginger, turning to sweet orange.
This 14 year old whisky, first aged in Bourbon casks since May 26, 2009, was transferred to Ruby Port Hogsheads on November 17, 2020, for its final 3-year maturation. It is a limited release, celebrating Feis Ile 2024, showcasing a unique profile with 11 years in Bourbon casks followed by a finish in Ruby Port casks. This unpeated Islay whisky features an ABV of 58.7%, is non-chill filtered, and has no added colour, highlighting its natural quality and craftsmanship.
Tasting Note by Bunnahabhain:Nose: Initial burst of dark chocolate which fades to reveal toasted oak, cherries, plums and raspberries, with a hint of carmelised walnuts.Palate: Spicy but sweet, with cinnamon and nutmeg intertwined with pain au chocolat, redcurrants, pomegranate and sweet malt.Finish: Lingering finish with cocoa and spice.
At the centre of the 2024 Core Range, the 12 Year Old features American and European Oak casks, along with influences from both Oloroso and Pedro Ximénez seasoned casks. Sitting at 46.4%, this expression perfectly embodies the spirit of The Glenturret’s heritage and tradition.
Tasting Note by Glenturret:Rich dried fruit is warmed by ginger and cinnamon, with layers of vanilla. Hints of dark chocolate and berry compote add depth, leading to a warm finish enhanced by gentle wood spices.
Inspired by the rugged beauty around the distillery, The Glenturret 7 Years Old is the perfect introduction to the core peat-smoked whisky collection.
Driven by American Oak, this whisky showcases a bold smoky character, complemented by sweet fruit notes from European Oak. Refill casks highlight the peated New Make Spirit, presenting a citrus-forward aroma that evolves into sweet, fruity flavours on the palate.
Tasting Note by Glenturret:Wisps of smoke from burning peat embers. Citrus fruit and creamy vanilla. Sweet fruit and peat intertwine with tempered oak for a soft finish.
This Limited Edition release commemorates Big Peat’s 15th Anniversary. This distinguished whisky features a blend of the finest Islay single malts, primarily aged in hand-selected red wine casks. Presented in an exquisite, gift-worthy carton, it offers 15 curated points of interest that delve into the essence of Big Peat, the Isle of Islay, and the exceptional character of the whisky.
Tasting Note by Douglas Laing & Co:Nose: Warming, earthy and smoke-led, black forest fruits, vanilla and butterscotchPalate: Fruit-driven, toffee, dark chocolate and a subtle-nuttinessFinish: Long finish of home-baking spice and lingering dry peat smoke
The Glenfarclas 24 Year Old Millennium Decanter is a rare and captivating whisky, limited to just 600 decanters and housed in elegant Glencairn Crystal. Crafted from spirit distilled on January 1st, 2000, and aged in a First Fill Sherry Butt from Bodega Jose y Miguel Martin, it embodies 24 years of meticulous craftsmanship. Bottled at 47.4% ABV, this release celebrates the Grant family's heritage and Glenfarclas' dedication to exceptional Highland Single Malt Whisky.
Tasting Note by Glenfarclas:Nose: Sherry-forward, with nutty sweetness and hints of cognac. Aromas of warm spices, cinnamon and nutmeg, blended with notes of fresh Seville oranges, evoking the essence of Christmas.Palate: Layers of sherry, dark chocolate and candied oranges, rich dried fruits harmonize with the oak and subtle spices. A beautifully balanced marriage of alcohol and wood.Finish: Long and lingering, with dry oak and deep cocoa notes. Less sweetness, with a more refined, bittersweet character.
The GlenAllachie 2012 Single Cask PX Hogshead is a UK-exclusive Speyside single malt. Distilled in November 2012 and bottled in October 2024, it has matured for 11 years in a PX Hogshead cask. Non-chill filtered and with no added colour, it is bottled at 61.1% ABV, with a limited outturn of 358 bottles.
This annual five-part series from Glen Scotia celebrates the Campbeltown market cross, a local symbol of storytelling and community. Inspired by the cross’s carvings of saints and mythical beasts, each release highlights a tale of heroism and resilience. This year’s edition, featuring Saint Michael defeating a dragon, is brought to life by artist Joel Holtzman. The whisky, carefully crafted by Glen Scotia’s Master Blender, reflects the spirit of unity and endurance that defines Campbeltown, echoing the town's history of overcoming adversity, like the heroic fight against a fire at Dalintober distillery in 1899.
Tasting Notes by Glen Scotia:Decadently smoky with hints of fiery red candied fruits and berries, the finish is long with a dry spicey end note. A subtle maritime salinity leaves no question which distillery this limited edition hails from.
A single cask release, aged for 14 years and finished in a Bordeaux wine barrique. Bottled at 60% ABV, it boasts notes of ripe red berries, dark chocolate, and subtle spices, followed by a long, satisfying finish of oak and sweet grapes. With only 261 bottles available, this unique Highland expression is a must-try for whisky lovers.
Tasting Note:Nose: Morello cherries, fresh baked cinnamon rolls, and ginger biscuits.Palate: Jammy red berries, Biscoff cookies, and toasted oak.Finish: Long, chocolate-y, followed by black coffee notes.
Distilled in 2005 and bottled in October 2022, the #2788 Single Cask expression has spent 17 years in port pipes. At 59% ABV, it offers a robust experience with notes of stewed fruit, strawberries, ginger, oak, and milk chocolate. With only 390 bottles available, this limited edition expression is a rare find for whisky enthusiasts.
Tasting Note:Nose: Opens with a rich blend of stewed fruits and ripe strawberries, complemented by hints of ginger and subtle oak.Palate: Dark fruits, milk chocolate, and a touch of spice from the ginger. The oak influence is present but well-balanced, adding depth without overpowering the sweetness.Finish: Long and satisfying, with lingering notes of sweet grapes and a gentle, warming spice.
A distinguished single cask release, matured for 22 years in a Pedro Ximénez sherry butt from the renowned Fernando De Castilla. Bottled at 53.9% ABV, this Highland single malt offers rich, complex flavours with a sherried profile. With only 683 bottles available, this release is a must-have for whisky enthusiasts
Tasting Notes:Nose: Rich sherry notes, dried fruits, and hints of dark chocolate.Palate: Stewed fruits, raisins, sweet spices, and a touch of oak.Finish: Long and warming with lingering sweetness and a hint of spice.
Matured exclusively in a select bourbon barrel, this expression boasts a remarkable balance between oak and vanilla. A rare single cask release, and rested for 24 years, nothing showcases well-roundedness and finesse quite like this release.
Tasting Notes:Nose: Vanilla crème brulee, honeyed pear, and a hint of toasted oak with subtle citrus zest.Palate: Rich and creamy with notes of caramelized toffee, spiced apple, and a touch of butterscotch, evolving into a delicate wave of citrus and warming spices.Finish: Long and smooth, featuring lingering notes of vanilla and a whisper of oak spice.
The Glenturret 15 Years Old presents a rich and fruity sweet whisky, crafted from Pedro Ximénez and Oloroso cask maturation. This expression reveals a unique character with a spicy, resinous mouthfeel and concludes with a long, lingering finish, all at a robust 50.8% ABV.
Tasting Note by Glenturret:Raisins and sultanas are complemented by sweet vanilla and a hint of ginger. Later, polished oak emerges, followed by sweet wood spices and brandy snaps. The experience concludes with a soft, yet spicy, rich fruit finish.
Smoky, sweet and complex. This peat smoked edition reveals a nuanced evolution of flavours that emerge from a combination of barley, casks, and spirit.
Tasting Note by Glenturret:Aromatic. Dried apple and citrus fruits. Peat smoke mingles with vanilla. Sweet fruit and darker smoke with hints of sea salt meander to a warm, embracing finish.
The third and final release in Rosebank's inaugural global series of legacy whiskies celebrates the revival of the distillery, known as the 'King of the Lowlands'. This edition commemorates the distillery's re-emergence after over 30 years of dormancy, marking a key milestone since its restoration began in 2019. Distilled in the final three years before its closure, this release captures Rosebank's rich, fruity, and floral character. The packaging features a commemorative letter and an NFC tag for authentication, highlighting its significance as Rosebank prepares to welcome the public in 2024.
Tasting Note by Rosebank:Nose: Elegant and balanced, boiled sweeties, pineapple cubes, dried apricot, gentle oak, candied ginger, lemon drizzle, marzipan, hints of white pepper and café latte.Palate: Velvet mouthfeel with good body, hints of malt, thyme, butterscotch, tropical fruits, drying oak and softly warming spice.Finish: Soft and long with lemon, honeyed porridge and toasted walnut.
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
Inspired by the Gaelic huntress goddess 'Neachneohain', this new themed series perfectly captures the innovation and discovery that underpins whisky making at Nc'Nean. Only produced once a year and created by a unique recipe crossover, this specific edition holds incredible jammy flavours, reminiscent of fresh baked biscuits with a hint of peppermint tea.
Tasting Note by Nc'nean:Cherry Bakewell, apricot marmalade, vanilla custard.
In the latest iteration of the Quiet Rebels series, Nc'nean proudly presents their distillery manager Gordon's most preferred blend of casks to craft the most irresistible of whiskies. After leaving one of Scotland's whisky giants in 2017, Gordon continues to shape the industry with this particular rendition, created with the aim of leaving a 'moreish' effect - leaving your mouth thirsting for more of that creamy and velvety feel and flavour.
Tasting Note by Nc'nean:Crème brûlée, Spiced plum jam, Candied orange peel
Belonging to the esteemed Sherry Oak range, The Macallan Sherry Oak 30 Years Old is crafted from a selection of single malt whiskies aged in carefully chosen sherry seasoned oak casks from Jerez, ensuring richness and complexity. Exquisitely smooth with a luxuriously enduring finish, this 30 year old expression boasts the deepest natural dark mahogany hue within the collection.
Tasting Note by Macallan:Palate: Honeyed figs, chocolate orange and a subtle hint of cinnamon.Finish: Beautifully long and rich finish
With just 311 bottles being bottled in the new 2024 rebranding, the GlenAllachie 2010 13 Year Old Madeira Hogshead is a UK exclusive, meticulously selected by Master Distiller Billy Walker. Bottled at cask strength, its intense character is a testament to its aging process, enriched by the unique nuances of Madeira wood.
Tasting Note by GlenAllachie:Nose: Brandy butter, honeycomb, orchard fruits and butterscotch, with hints of orange blossom, hazelnut and caramelised brown sugar.Palate: Heather honey, orange peel and burnt caramel, followed by waves of cinnamon, butterscotch and stewed orchard fruits, with a nutty bouquet on the finish.
The Macallan Sherry Oak 25 Years Old is a distinguished member of The Macallan's Sherry Oak range, renowned for its exceptional single malt whiskies matured in carefully selected sherry seasoned oak casks from Jerez, Spain. This particular expression, aged for a quarter of a century, offers an intensely rich and full flavor profile. It tantalizes the senses with notes of citrus, dried fruits, and a subtle touch of wood smoke. It's a testament to the time-honored tradition of The Macallan's whisky craftsmanship, resulting in a whisky of unparalleled richness and complexity.
Tasting Note by Macallan:Nose: Citrus, balanced with cinnamon, sherry and wood smoke.Palate: Full and rich, with dried fruits and a hint of wood smoke.Finish: Long, with dried fruit, wood smoke and spice.
The Aberfeldy 25 Year Old Sherry Cask whisky has been meticulously aged for over two decades in a blend of re-fill hogsheads and refill butts. It was then refined for over a year in First-fill Oloroso Sherry casks. These Oloroso casks not only enhance Aberfeldy's innate rich and fruity essence but also introduce a captivating spiced undertone.
Tasting Note by Aberfeldy:Nose: Wild strawberries and ripe peaches, cocoa powder, creamy caramel and warming cinnamon.Palate: Delicate fruit rests on a malty, cereal base.Finish: Hint of vanilla, coffee and a long satisfying finish.
Arran Distillery proudly announces its 25 Year Old Single Malt, now a staple in their core range. With an annual release of just 3,000 bottles globally, it's their oldest age-stated offering. Matured in ex-Sherry and Bourbon casks, it boasts a 46% volume without chill filtration or added coloring. Celebrating a quarter-century, Arran Distillery invites enthusiasts to savor their legacy in every bottle of this exceptional Single Malt.
Tasting Note by Arran:Nose: Rich oak with a gentle nutmeg note. Sweeter aromas of baked ripe figs, sultanas and black cherries.Palate: Fruit cake with toasted almonds and cinnamon. The juicy zestiness of oranges and mandarins mellows perfectly with manuka honey, muscovado sugar, baked apricots and an interesting white pepper note that provides even more complexity.Finish: Creamy and spicy with dark chocolate, walnuts and dark fruits compote.
"The Essence of Time" 30 Years Old whisky is a result of a meticulous search within their aged casks, leading to the discovery of flavors in five unique barrels. The European oak introduces classic rich fruit tastes, enhanced with brandy and ginger undertones. A port pipe adds a deep ruby shade and hints of red fruits. Meanwhile, two American oak hogsheads contribute sweeter tropical fruit and banana flavors, reminiscent of their fresh new make spirit. This whisky stands as a testament to The Glenturret's dedication to preserving traditional crafting methods. It boasts a natural hue and is non-chill-filtered, with a limited release of 500 bottles worldwide.
Tasting Note by Glenturret:A summer’s day picnic – tropical fruit salad and ripening bananas with a garnish of prunes and figs. Sweet brandy snaps dusted with ginger and cinnamon. A compete of red fruits topped by meringue and vanilla ice cream delivers a fruity finish shaded by subtle oak.
The Macallan Sherry Oak 18 Years Old is a distinguished member of The Macallan's Sherry Oak Collection. This collection is renowned for its exceptional single malt whiskies matured in carefully selected sherry seasoned oak casks from Jerez, Spain, resulting in a whisky of remarkable richness and complexity. This 18 year old expression offers a full-bodied palate with mature oak, ginger, and raisin flavors, all complemented by its natural mahogany hue. It's a testament to the artistry of The Macallan's whisky-making tradition.
Tasting Note by Macallan:Nose: Dried fruits and ginger with hints of vanilla and cinnamon.Palate: Soft and rich, with hints of spice, clove, orange and toasted mature oak.Finish: Lingering with dried fruits, ginger and orange zest.
This cask strength release truly embodies Deanston's distinctive personality and house style. It boasts robust and rich flavors, including toasty spice, candied fruit, crisp green apple, and a subtle citrus note. At Deanston, they embrace change, always striving to improve and refusing to settle for the status quo. Just like their founder, Brodie Hepburn, who initiated this endeavor with courage and audacity, this special-edition dram is bold and unapologetic. It starts its journey in barrels previously used for aging some of the finest American bourbon, infusing it with a waxy, citrusy character, and then matures in virgin American oak barrels to create a truly unique and powerful whisky.
Tasting Note by Deanston:Nose: Intense robust flavours of wood spice, creamy custard and candied fruit.Palate: Butterscotch, heather honey, crisp green apple and Deanston’s signature waxy character.Finish: Warm spice, with a twist of citrus and a hint of honey.
Celebrating its rich heritage, The Glenturret 10 Years Old Peat Smoked pays homage to the evolving flavors shaped by barley, spirit, and casks. With a history rooted in peat, this whisky sources peat from diverse locations for its smoky notes. It matures in a blend of first-fill and second-fill European and American oak casks, resulting in a complex single malt, proudly presented at 48.4% ABV.
Tasting Note by Glenturret:DARK SMOKE from a newly lit fire, SWEET CIRTUS and VANILLA. SALTED CARAMEL lead into SMOKY WOOD SPICES which drift into the distance.
The Glenturret 7 Years Old Peat Smoked edition captivates the palate with its intricate and sophisticated flavors. The inherent sweetness of our new make spirit gracefully dances with hints of fresh oak and sweet vanilla.
Tasting Note by Glenturret:Light smoke floats with vanilla and sweet aromatics, citrus, fresh green oak and sultanasaccompany a meandering Peat smoke.
Discover Big Peat The Smokehouse Edition Feis Isle 2023, an exceptional whisky with a unique red wine barrique finish. Experience a blend of flavors from Caol Ila, Bowmore, Ardbeg, and Port Ellen in this innovative Islay spirit.
Tasting Note by Douglas Laing & Co:Nose: Earthy blackberries, toasty oak, vanilla, and leathery spices are detected.Palate: Dark fruits, maple bacon, meaty smoke, and a hint of salty liquorice are all present on the palate.Finish: Peppery with a rich, lasting flavour.
Batch 3 is the third and final release in the series of inaugural whiskies from the young Lagg Distillery located on the Isle of Arran. Like its predecessors, Batch 3 is crafted using double distilled 50ppm peated Concerto malted barley. It spends two and a half years maturing in first-fill bourbon casks before a six-month finishing period in custom-made rioja red wine Firkin casks. Bottled at 50% ABV, without added color or chill filtration, this single malt combines layers of red fruit with the earthy essence of peat at its core.
Tasting Note by Lagg:Nose: Light intensity. Earthy peat with some light minerality and a hint of oak. Palate: Thick, mouth coating. More of the peat comes through on the mouthfeel. There is a sweetness. Lots of berries maybe some dark fruit. Some more herbaceous notes in the background.Finish: Medium. More peat, nice balance with a little pinch of saltiness.
According to their legend, an extraordinary event unfolded when the King of Islay was reborn on a remarkable day. A brilliant spark of sunlight descended from the sky and ignited the land, engulfing it in flames. When the inferno finally waned, the scorched earth was shrouded in dense smoke. A majestic Phoenix ascended, its fiery wings fueling the stills of Lagavulin, intensifying the whisky's spicy and smoky character.
In this profound expression crafted from virgin oak and the smokiest casks in their reserves, peaty notes take the lead in a timeless dance with spices and smoke, all harmonizing with a profound sweetness.
Tasting Note by Lagavulin:Nose: Dry, with an immediate powerful smokiness; much more so than is usual with Lagavulin, with charcoal and fragrant peat massively to the fore, backed by a clean fresh base-note that suggests sea air and mineral scents. Much reduced, aromatically, with even a little water, it remains essentially unaltered.Palate: The smooth lightly oily texture shines with sweet richness; the taste is sweet to start, then takes off with a soaring lemony acidity and a sprinkling of sea salt to add freshness. Mid-palate the fire dries the taste, which flies still higher now in its salty-smoky intensity. A dash of water rounds and sweetens but it’s the smoke that dominates.Finish: Long, with great waves of peat-smoke, and new-fired heights of spiced and smoky intensity that last wonderfully in the aftertaste.
According to the legend, Clynelish once faced a fierce blizzard that threatened its precious casks with ruin. In the midst of this icy tempest, a silent and enigmatic feline creature came to the rescue. Situated in the densely overgrown woods of the Highlands, Clynelish is a distillery that stands even more remote than most, tucked away in the wilderness that serves as the natural habitat of the elusive Scottish wildcat. Although few of these elusive creatures remain, the symbol of the wildcat is proudly displayed at the Clynelish distillery, serving as its eternal guardian.
This particular Clynelish expression, as radiant as a gleaming golden eye, reveals a spicier dimension to its vibrant fruity notes and waxy texture. The luscious liquid emanates a dazzling array of complex aromas, encompassing fruits, herbs, and deeper, fragrant oak spices. Its velvety texture and opulent, wine-like sweetness are complemented by a burst of peppery spice, the result of an extended period of secondary maturation in Pedro Ximenez/Oloroso casks. A single malt as rare and elusive as the mysterious guardian that watches over it.
Tasting Note by Clynelish:Nose: Creamy top notes soon give way to light yet complex fruity and herbal aromas; subtle, understated suggestions of fruity mincemeat, tinned pears, even heather honey. Deeper still, spicy scents of oak preview a soaring intensity on the palate. A drop of water increases the herbal note, while also introducing a familiar waxy hint.Palate: A very smooth, mouth-filling texture introduces a lively taste that is rich and wine-sweet overall, the palate well-balanced by snarling peppery, oaky spice. A little water enhances the sweetness, steers the smoothness of the texture towards waxiness and rounds the flavours, which soon give way again to spicy heat.Finish: Quite long, chili-spiced, and appetisingly drying, with lingering pepper. A little water enhances the creamy-smooth texture and adds a little more spice.
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 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.
This unique expression underwent a two-stage maturation process, beginning in refill American oak casks and then concluding with a fascinating finish in Cognac casks, culminating in a 19-year-old bottling. Cognac casks are known for their potent influence on flavor, sometimes overpowering, but Glendullan has masterfully struck a balance here. Instead of dominating the profile, the Cognac finishing delicately seasons the whisky, enhancing its character in a truly delectable manner.
Tasting Note by Singleton:Nose: Mild in feel, the nose shines with top notes of dried fruits suggesting dried figs and apricots or crystalised angelica and orange peel, while beneath this there is the dry scent of a light fruitcake, iced with spirited notes of vanilla-scented marzipan. More buttery notes emerge with a drop of water, which also brings up the spiciness.Palate: A soft, smooth and mouth-filling texture, oaky-dry at first, brings out layers of richly fruity flavouring which a lusciously sweet taste of ripe green apple is enriched by exotic hints of grape spirit and sweet coconut. A little water enhances the effect.Finish: Lengthy and warming, waxing sweet and faintly savoury with a trace of ginger spice and the merest touch of smoke.
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.
