The Glendalough team embarked on a unique venture, finishing their exquisite Irish single malt whiskey in Japanese Mizunara oak casks. This seven-year-old expression initially matured in American oak bourbon casks before its transfer to the rare Mizunara casks. Crafting with Mizunara wood can be challenging for coopers, but the outcome is a whiskey that unveils a delightful array of fragrant and intricate notes.
Tasting Note by Glendalough:Nose: Milk chocolate, vanilla pod, orange zest, and sandalwood.Palate: there are still aromas of chocolate along with toasted cinnamon and five-spice as well as ripe apricot and nectarines.Finish: Brown sugar, lemon peel, anise, and flaky pastry.
The robust and spicy single malt from the Israeli distillery Milk & Honey is a testament to their craftsmanship. This whisky has been matured using a combination of bourbon casks, virgin oak casks, and shaved, toasted, and recharred casks, resulting in a complex and flavorful profile. On the nose, it reveals inviting aromas of red apples, peach, nectarine, complemented by oak spice, beeswax, and honey. The palate offers a rich tapestry of flavors, including nutmeg, oak, cloves, honeyed orange peel, and apple, with a satisfying and lingering finish. This expression showcases the distillery's commitment to producing distinctive and memorable whiskies.
Tasting Note by Milk & Honey: Nose: Waxy honey, flowery oak, well-baked flapjack, dried fruit, and ripe peaches.Palate: Lemon curd and sweet porridge are followed by the sweetness of vanilla and honey, with a touch of bitter chocolate providing balance.Finish: Peppery oak remains, coupled with barrel char, more honey, and a balance of bitter black chocolate.
A pivotal expression within Glencadam whisky portfolio, Glencadam 15 Years Old matures exclusively in American oak ex-bourbon casks. This distinctive aging process yields an exquisitely well-balanced East Highland single malt, marked by fruity and creamy characteristics, with prominent notes of orchard fruits, sweet vanilla, and a subtle hint of liquorice.
In a remarkable achievement, Glencadam 15 Years Old earned an exceptional score of 98 points out of 100 at the 2022 International Wine & Spirits Competition. Bottled at 46% alcohol by volume, with its natural color and without chill filtration, this whisky exemplifies their unwavering dedication to quality and authenticity.
Tasting Note by Glencadam:Nose: Creamy and inviting with aromas of bread and butter pudding, sugared almond and tangy marmalade.Palate: Rich and oily with layers of creamy panna cotta, lotus biscuits and lemon peel and nutmeg spices.Finish: Warming and nutty with notes of almond fingers, cocoa powder and hints of ground coffee.
Distilled in small batches, Glencadam 13 Years Old is subjected to maturation in meticulously hand-picked first-fill American oak ex-bourbon casks.
Bottled at 46% abv, with its natural color preserved and free from chill filtration, Glencadam 13 Years Old presents a flavor profile characterized by richness, nuttiness, and creaminess, all enhanced by the tropical fruitiness that distinguishes Glencadam Single Malts Scotch Whiskies. This combination results in a complex and impeccably balanced whisky.
Tasting Note by GlencadamNose: Creamy and inviting with aromas of bread and butter pudding, sugared almond and tangy marmalade.Palate: Rich and oily with layers of creamy panna cotta, lotus biscuits and lemon peel and nutmeg spices.Finish: Warming and nutty with notes of almond fingers, cocoa powder and hints of ground coffee.
The Glencadam 10 Years Old, an esteemed recipient of numerous awards, emanates a fragrant aroma featuring a grassy freshness complemented by subtle notes of citrus and spice, all the while delivering a rounded and smooth palate.
This exceptional single malt undergoes an exclusive maturation process in American oak ex-bourbon barrels, resulting in a natural sweetness, a gentle yet spiced oak influence, and a crisp, clean profile with distinct citrus flavors. Moreover, this meticulously balanced whisky is left in its natural color and remains unaltered by chill filtration, exemplifying a commitment to preserving its genuine character.
Tasting Note by Glencadam:Nose: Tangy and fresh with aromas of tropical fruits and citrus bound by a soft vanilla sweetness and baking spices.Palate: Bright and grassy with layers of pineapple, lemon curd and brioche with citrus zest highlights.Finish: Clean and crisp with notes of yellow fruits, vanilla pod and nutmeg spices.
Tomintoul 16 Years Old, cherished by their Master Distiller, Robert Fleming, is a testament to meticulous craftsmanship. This exceptional single malt is lovingly created from a carefully chosen selection of the finest American oak ex-bourbon casks.
Tasting Note by Tomintoul:Nose: Creamy and sweet with aromas of heather honey, soft nougat, vanilla fudge and toasted brioche with lemon zest highlights. Palate: Nutty and well rounded with layers of creme brulee and boiled sweets mingled with touches of mocha and amoretti biscuit.Finish: Mellow and warming with notes of shortbread, cinnamon icing and brittle toffee lingering on the tongue.
Distilled in 2008, this exceptional expression embarks on its maturation journey within ex-bourbon American oak casks before undergoing a transformative finishing period in specially selected White Port barriques sourced from Portugal. These unique barriques bring forth rich fruit flavors, enhancing the whisky's character and complexity. Bottled at a robust 46% ABV and presented in its natural form with no artificial color or chill filtration.
Tasting Note by Tomintoul: Nose: Elderflower and orchard blossom floral notes, white grapes, pineapple sweets, and soft barley are all present.Palate: Plenty of fruity tang with summer berries, sultanas, and honeyed prunes. Syrupy flapjack joins, with a dash of fresh vanilla.Finish: Hints of creamy cocoa, praline, golden plums, spiced biscuits.
Tomintoul 14 Years Old is presented at a robust 46% ABV and retains its natural character through non-chill filtration. This expression, matured in American oak ex-bourbon casks, embodies a richer and more robust interpretation of the classic Tomintoul style.
Tasting Note by Tomintoul:Nose: Sweet and inviting with aromas of sugared almond, icing sugar, orchard fruits and creme brulee with hints of lemon curd. Palate: Madagascan vanilla pod and toasted almonds mixed with cinnamon Danish, oat biscuit and citrus oils.Finish: Warming and toasty with layers of roast hazelnuts, mocha and fresh grassy highlights.
Under the expertise of their Master Distiller, Robert Fleming, Tomintoul presents the second batch of their Tomintoul 12 Years Old Oloroso Sherry Cask Finish. This exceptional expression begins with the careful selection of single malt distilled in 2010, which undergoes an initial maturation in high-quality ex-bourbon American oak casks. Subsequently, the single malt is artfully married and subjected to a finishing period in the finest Oloroso Sherry butts sourced from Andalucía, Spain.
Tasting Note by Tomintoul:Nose: Rich and inviting with aromas of treacle toffees, toasted pecans, sweet raisins and soft smoky highlights. Palate: Creamy and luxurious with layers of mocha, Brazil nut toffee, fruit cake, candied peels and brandy butter. Finish: Long and silky with notes of chocolate eclair, creme caramel and hints of clove.
The Miltonduff 10 year old single malt, part of Gordon & MacPhail's Discovery range, is a vibrant expression of sherry cask maturation. Aged for a decade, this whisky showcases rich sherry character and is bottled at 43% ABV. Each Discovery bottling is colour-coded by flavour profile, with the purple packaging signifying its place in the Sherry category. This release offers whisky enthusiasts a fine introduction to the diverse flavours within the Gordon & MacPhail portfolio.
Tasting Note by Gordon & MacPhail: Nose: Chocolate and sticky orange marmalade transforms into juicy plump stewed raisins and sweet baked apple, freshly cut grass notes delicately balance the rich sherry influences.Palate: Sweet and spicy: comforting butter candies weave with roasted hazelnut followed closely by orange zest, cinnamon, and mouth-warming pepper maturing into plum and fig jam.Finish: Long with highlights of chocolate and stewed fruit finishing with lingering winter spices.
Hailing from the esteemed Seattle-based craft distillery Westland, this American single malt whiskey is a testament to their excellence, having been named Craft Producer of the Year at the Icons of Whisky in 2016. The whiskey matures in casks formerly used to hold Oloroso and Pedro Ximénez Sherry, infusing it with rich and complex flavors.
Tasting Note by Westland: Nose: The aroma of honey-dipped oatmeal raisin cookies and quick richness are there in the nostrils. A drizzle of maple syrup is then applied to banana pancakes.Palate: There are initially kiwi aromas along with more notes of maple and raisin syrup. Extended tastings start with a dizzying array of sweet pastries and cookies that gradually get richer and darker before giving the palate over to stewed yellow fruits at the finish.
Westland's peated malt is a skillful blend that incorporates a portion of intensely peated whisky with unpeated spirits, all aged in American oak barrels. This harmonious marriage achieves a superb equilibrium between smoky and fruity notes, accompanied by hints of earthiness, green herbs, and roasted nuts, creating a well-rounded and complex flavor profile.
Tasting Note by Westland:Nose: Smouldering moss, flamed orange peel, and a background of nuttiness are the first notes in the nose.Palate: Peat erupts from the palate, expressing flavours of roasted pistachios, iodine, and campfire. The smouldering moss on the nose gradually transforms into burning embers and roasted plantains. As time passes, the palate also changes, moving towards more pronounced earth notes, green herbs, and increasing iodine towards the finish.
Angel's Envy was founded in Louisville, Kentucky, by master distiller Lincoln Henderson with a simple but ambitious philosophy: to take exceptional bourbon and make it better. The distillery's signature approach centres on secondary cask finishing, a process that sets it apart within the American whiskey category and has earned it recognition as the world's best-selling ultra-premium bourbon by volume, a distinction it has held consistently since 2020.
The Kentucky Straight Bourbon begins with four to six years of ageing in new American white oak barrels before being transferred for up to six months into ruby Port wine casks imported from Portugal's Douro Valley. To ensure an exacting flavour profile, the bourbon is blended twice — once before the Port wine finish and once after — a level of care and precision that underpins the distillery's reputation for consistency and craft. The result is a whiskey of considerable smoothness and layered complexity, bottled at 86.6 proof. An approachable and beautifully presented expression, it makes an effortless gift for any whiskey enthusiast.
Tasting Note by Angel's Envy:Nose: Subtle vanilla, raisins, maple syrup and toasted nuts.Palate: Vanilla, ripe fruit, maple syrup, toast and bitter chocolate.Finish: Clean and lingering sweetness with a hint of Madeira that slowly fades.
In the Craigellachie Cask Finishing Collection, one can find the Craigellachie 13 Year Old Bas-Armagnac Cask, a unique addition that pays homage to their traditional worm tubs. Casks from producers of oak-aged spirits who also employ worm tubs have been sourced to create this distinctive offering. The inaugural release in this collection showcases the award-winning 13-year-old Craigellachie Single Malt, artfully finished in Bas-Armagnac casks originating from the northernmost region of Gascony, France. This distinctive finishing process adds a roundness to the robust Craigellachie character. Initially, the whisky matures in ex-Bourbon and ex-Sherry casks before undergoing a resting period of just over a year in Bas-Armagnac casks. Staying true to their commitment to quality, all Craigellachie expressions remain non-chill filtered, devoid of caramel colouring, and are bottled at a respectable 46% ABV.
In terms of cask types, it begins its maturation journey in a blend of ex-Bourbon and ex-Sherry casks. Then, 50% of the blend undergoes further refinement in first-fill Sherry casks, while the remainder is aged in first-fill Bourbon casks.
Notably, all Craigellachie expressions uphold a steadfast commitment to quality: they are non-chill filtered, free from caramel coloring, and bottled at a respectable 46% ABV. For those seeking a whisky of character and authenticity, Craigellachie is a notable choice.
Tasting Note by Craigellachie: The scents of oozing toasted marshmallows, fire-roasted pineapples, and baked apples sprinkled with cloves, along with the tang of cordite lingering in the background, make Craigellachie 13 Year Old remind one of Bonfire Night.
Batch 3 of the Virgin Oak Series unveils a mahogany-hued malt enriched with spicy, treacly flavors, a result of its maturation in hogsheads crafted from Spanish Oak (Quercus Robur). This wood originates from the regions of Galicia and Asturias, specifically harvested in the cool, humid climate of the Cantabrian Mountains.
The oak was meticulously air-dried for approximately 18 months, followed by toasting and charring to a medium level. This process allowed our complex spirit to intricately interact with the oak, extracting its unique cask character. The secondary aging in these virgin casks further deepened the whisky's mahogany color and contributed to a palate teeming with dried fruits, maraschino cherries, and subtle hints of stem ginger.
This exquisite whisky is bottled at 48% alcohol by volume, with its natural color preserved, and it remains non-chill filtered, adhering to the commitment to authenticity.
Tasting Note by GlenAllachie:Nose: Lashings of orchard fruits, baking spices and sticky toffee pudding, with notes of brown sugar, glazed cherries and citrus.Palate: Bursting with chocolate, coffee and heather honey, followed by notes of pepper, ginger and molasses, with banana and sultanas on the finish.
In Batch 3 of their Virgin Oak Series, The GlenAllachie proudly presents a rare single malt that underwent an additional maturation process in casks crafted from Scottish Sessile Oak (Quercus Petrae), sourced from the Atlantic coast. Handling Scottish oak proves challenging throughout the entire production process, from growth and milling to coopering. Due to its rarity, costliness, and tendency to form knots, it is an infrequently chosen wood for whisky maturation.
Before being filled with whisky, the wood underwent an extensive 36-month air-drying period, followed by a medium-level toasting and charring process. Despite the inherent difficulties, this coveted oak variety imparts luxurious notes of blonde chocolate, accompanied by hints of zesty orange and velvety toffee, resulting in a truly distinctive and indulgent drinking experience.
Bottled at 48% alcohol by volume, with its natural color preserved and without undergoing chill filtration.
Tasting Note by GlenAllachie:Nose: Bursting with baked oats, butterscotch and toffee, with notes of cinnamon, gingersnaps and heather honey.Palate: Lashings of heather honey, orchard fruits and lemon zest, followed by white chocolate, cinnamon and ginger, with toffee and butterscotch on the finish.
In Batch 3 of their Virgin Oak Series, The GlenAllachie proudly introduces an innovative single malt that embarked on a distinctive secondary aging journey in Hungarian oak. Master Distiller Billy Walker's quest for the extraordinary led him to the remote mountains of northeastern Hungary, specifically the Zemplén forest. This region's unique characteristics, including rocky volcanic soil, a colder climate, and higher altitude, result in slow-growing trees with tight-grained oak—an ideal quality for aging spirits.
Driven by a desire to explore the potential of this rare oak, the barrels underwent a carefully controlled toasting and charring process before being filled with their intricate spirit. As one of the world's pioneering single malts finished in Hungarian virgin oak (Quercus Petraea), this whisky promises an aromatic, well-balanced, and exquisitely unique profile, marked by its silky smooth richness.
Bottled at 48% alcohol by volume, with its natural color retained and without undergoing chill filtration.
Tasting Note by GlenAllachie:Nose: Bursting with butterscotch, citrus and milk chocolate, with cinnamon, raisins, orchard fruits and ginger.Palate: Intense stewed spices enriched with honey, butterscotch, treacle, orange zest and hints of cloves.
The St. George's Distillery, known for its remarkable English range, has unveiled yet another captivating expression. This single malt has undergone a unique maturation process, resting in both virgin oak and sherry casks. The result is a whisky that entices the palate with delightful sweet notes of dried fruit, complemented by lively oak spices.
Tasting Note by The English:Nose: The aroma evokes the delightful scent of chocolate chip and raisin cookies, along with roasted almonds. There are also notes of cassia and black pepper adding a touch of spice.Palate: The taste is characterized by festive spices and toasted oak, with subtle hints of caramel lingering underneath.Finish: The finish brings forth flavors of raisin, grist (coarsely ground grain), and honeycomb, providing a satisfying conclusion to the experience.
The Virgin Oak Cask expression from The English Distillery began as an experiment but has now found its place in The English range. While whiskies aged in new oak casks can often be overwhelming, this one strikes a harmonious balance. It showcases the creamy, nutty, and chocolatey qualities of the cask without being dominated by overpowering oak. Instead, it offers a restrained hint of robust oak that complements the rich vanilla and nutty barley notes, creating a well-rounded and flavorful whisky.
Tasting Note by The English: Nose: Toasted vanilla pod, coconut ice, ginger, and a trace of caraway.Palate: Full-bodied barley and almond liqueur flavours, with a rising nutmeg warmth. More vanilla, this time with some chocolate coffee undertones emerging.Finish: Honey on toast, delicate citrus, and a peppery finish.
The English Whisky Company has crafted a small-batch release from their St. George's Distillery, and it's based on a heavily-peated malt that underwent maturation between 2010 and 2021. This remarkable release presents a delightful blend of flavors, including caramel, apples, and a distinct smokiness that runs through every sip. It's a testament to the craftsmanship of the distillery and their commitment to producing exceptional whisky.
Tasting Note by The English:Wafts of sea salt and burning embers with a soft sweet smokey finish.
The English Whisky Co. 1st Fill Bourbon Cask Matured Small Batch is a truly limited-edition gem, with production restricted to only four casks, yielding a mere 2500 bottles. These small batches serve as a testament to the craftsmanship of the distillers, emphasizing the diverse flavor profiles that different casks can impart. This whisky is a delectable offering, characterized by delightful notes of vanilla, indulgent milk chocolate, and the vibrant essence of green fruits, particularly apples. Its lusciously oily texture adds to the overall appeal, culminating in a remarkably enduring finish.
Tasting Note by The English: Nose: Buttery vanilla, pears and banana, and delicate green notes.Palate: Buttery sweet corn, candied orange peel, vanilla custard, crisp green apples, traces of wood spice, milk chocolate with a beautiful oily coating to the lips.Finish: Wood spice leads to lemon peel, hot buttered toast with apricot jam, and vanilla.
Outlaw, a bourbon from Yellow Rose Distilling, proudly showcases its rebellious spirit. Crafted using 100% Texas yellow corn and aged in small American oak barrels, this bourbon boasts a full-bodied and warming palate. The tasting experience is characterised by a delightful interplay of flavors, including notes of vanilla and caramel, harmoniously mingling with the bold spiciness of black pepper.
Tasting Note by Yellow Rose:Nose: Intense aroma, rich caramel, and vanilla with a hint of floralPalate: Slightly sweet and extremely rich.Finish: Long, maintaining caramel and vanilla. Like a good dessert.
The GlenAllachie Wine Cask Series, crafted by Master Blender Billy Walker, features a unique expression called The Cuvée Wine Cask Finish. This 2023 release blends whisky matured in American oak ex-Bourbon barrels and European wine barriques from French and Italian regions. The result is an opulent, smooth malt with layers of robust red fruits, gentle spice, and citrus hints, bottled unchillfiltered at 48% ABV with no added colouring.
Tasting Note by GlenAllachie:Nose: Bursting with orange blossom, espresso, maraschino cherries and honeysuckle, with hints of candied stone fruits, hazelnuts, lavender and cinnamon. Palate: Waves of dark chocolate, red currants and burnt coffee beans, followed by crystalised almonds, blackberries and orange zest, with ginger and liquorice on the finish.
Tomatin 2011 from the Gordon & MacPhail Discovery range is a Highland single malt aged exclusively in bourbon casks. Known for its remarkable 168-hour fermentation period, this whisky showcases a fresh and fruity spirit. Bottled at 43% ABV, it offers vibrant notes of lemon zest, honeydew melon, tropical fruits, and brown sugar, making it a delightful expression of the Tomatin distillery's craftsmanship.
Tasting Note by Gordon & MacPhail: Nose: Fragrant lemon zest intertwine with rich tropical fruit and desiccated coconut. Honeydew melon and walnut notes develop.Palate: Smooth dried pineapple pieces compliment ripe green apple and rich honey. Brown sugar undertones develop alongside dried banana.Finish: Full with lasting malted biscuit and charred oak.
Produced at Glengoyne Distillery on the Highland-Lowland boundary since 1883, the 15 Year Old is built on the same foundations as the rest of the range: Scotland's slowest distillation process and the exclusive use of unpeated, air-dried barley. The result is a characteristically clean, fruit-forward spirit that allows fifteen years of careful cask influence to speak without interference from smoke or peat.
Matured in a combination of first-fill sherry, first-fill bourbon, and refill casks, the whisky achieves a considered balance between the vibrant fruit and spice of the active casks and the subtler depth contributed by refill wood. Bottled at 43% ABV without chill-filtration and at natural colour, with packaging that is fully recyclable, plastic-free and FSC-certified, this is a refined and conscientiously produced expression of Glengoyne's house style.
Tasting Note by Glengoyne:Nose: Fresh Hay, Malt Flour, Rosehip, Citrus and dried fruit.Palate: Clean with a gentle sweetness, a hint of tropical fruit, candied lemon, cinnamon, vanilla and apple pie.Finish: Pleasant dry finish with gentle spice and lingering oak.
The exclusive Benrinnes 8 Year Old 2014 (Sherry) from the Old Particular Midnight Series by Douglas Laing. With just 635 bottles available, this limited edition whisky, distilled in April 2014 and bottled in September 2022, offers a unique taste and exceptional sherry influence.
Tasting Notes by Douglas Laing & Co:Nose: Rich and distinctly sherried, darkly fruited and spiced, with vanilla fudge.Palate: Shows early Christmas cake style – full of syrup, barley and sultanas.Finish: Malted with muscovado sugar and nuts – plus grapes and cereal throughout. (FHL)
Big Peat's limited edition Christmas 2022 bottling is a festive celebration of Islay's single malt whiskies. This remarkable release is a marriage of single malt Scotch whiskies exclusively from the island of Islay, known for its distinctive and peaty whisky style.
Here's what you can expect from Big Peat's Christmas Edition 2022:
ABV (Alcohol by Volume): 54.2%
Volume: 70cl (700ml)
Big Peat is renowned for its unique blend, which incorporates single malts from various Islay distilleries, each contributing its own distinct characteristics:
Caol Ila: Known for bringing sweetness to the blend.
Bowmore: Adds a perfect balance of flavors.
Ardbeg: Contributes a medicinal and earthy quality.
Port Ellen: Provides a touch of elegance.
This limited edition release captures the essence of Islay in a bottle, offering a harmonious blend of these iconic distilleries' spirits. It's a part of the Remarkable Regional Malts range, which showcases the diverse whisky regions of Scotland through exceptional blends.
Big Peat's Christmas Edition 2022 is not only a delightful expression of Islay's peaty whisky tradition but also a special release to enjoy during the holiday season. With its higher-than-average ABV, it promises a robust and flavorful whisky experience that's perfect for celebrating and sharing with fellow whisky enthusiasts.
Tasting Note by Douglas Laing & Co:Nose: Anticipate burnt caramel, wafts of Hebridean sea air and notes of enticing peat smoke.Palate: Delivers the ultimate distillation of Islay: reminiscent of bonfire ashes and rich earthy notes balanced by a toasted marshmallow sweetness.Finish: Whilst these winter days may be short, the finish is satisfyingly long, with more of what went before.
Benromach Peat Smoke is a distinct and memorable single malt Scotch whisky that sets itself apart with its pronounced peaty character. This small-batch expression is crafted using heavily peated barley, which infuses the whisky with a robust and smoky flavor profile. Matured in first-fill bourbon barrels, this whisky undergoes a transformative journey within the casks.
Tasting Note by Benromach:Nose: Very rich smoke with fragrant vanilla and light citrus zest. Hints of apples develop accompanied by white chocolate.Palate: Smooth with toasted oak, honey and sweet ripe fruit. Butterscotch and marshmallow flavours lead to a lemon sherbet all alongside sweet smoke.Finish: Mouth-coating sweetness and bonfire embers.
Tamdhu Batch Strength No. 7 showcases Tamdhu's steadfast dedication to crafting sherry-matured whisky, boasting a captivating natural copper hue and a complex flavor profile. Every Oloroso sherry cask is meticulously hand-selected, resulting in an exquisite and nuanced flavor with a memorable and gratifying finish that embodies Speyside's essence.
Tasting Note by Tamdhu:Nose: Subtle waft of vanilla sponge, followed by spicy cinnamon and roasted praline.Palate: Pavlova filled with luscious raspberries, caramel apricots with a wave of oak spice, and a zingy lemon punch.Finish: Warm oak spices, baked figs, evident sherry flavours, and freshly peeled clementine.
The Battalion from J.J. Corry is a blend composed of 60% grain and 40% malt Irish whiskey that undergoes initial maturation in bourbon casks. The grain whiskey is then finished in Tequila casks for a short period, resulting in a distinctive and limited release of just 900 bottles for Batch 3. This expression is known for its lively and zesty character influenced by the unique Tequila cask finish.
Tasting Note by JJ Corry: Nose: The whiskey offers a pleasant and sweet scent of fresh agave, accompanied by hints of grassy honey, oak-based spices, and cashew nuts.Palate: The flavors of slightly unripe mango and green apple, followed by a comforting combination of toasted nuts and freshly harvested hay.Finish: The finish leaves a delightful lingering taste of salted caramel and a touch of fresh thyme.
In the most recent Limited Edition release from Ledaig, the whisky brims with flavor, having been fully matured in red wine casks and bottled at cask strength (56.8% ABV). This particular expression of peated Ledaig has enjoyed 9 years of maturation in the finest Bordeaux red wine casks. The result is a whisky with distinct notes of heather, pine cones, woody sea salt, and floral undertones that linger on the finish. As with all Ledaig whiskies, this release is presented in its natural color and is non-chillfiltered, allowing its character to shine through in the form of intense and rich flavors.
Tasting Note by Tobermory:Nose: Smoked fudge, eucalyptus oil and carbolic soap.Palate: Burning heather and pine cones. Grape skins and melons, wood smoked meats.Finish: As the smoke drifts, some floral notes develop and finally lime pastilles.
The whisky in question showcases a mouthfeel that is luxuriously creamy, enveloping the palate with an array of opulent dark fruit notes and the sweetness of malted barley. This experience gradually transitions into a realm of sweet vanilla and cocoa, punctuated by the warming presence of cinnamon spice.
Its journey to achieving this exceptional flavor profile begins with its initial maturation period in a combination of French and American oak casks, formerly used to age wine. However, the whisky's evolution doesn't conclude there. It embarks on a second phase of maturation, spending an extended duration in ex-fortified Muscat barrels sourced from the esteemed Morris winery, known for its numerous accolades in the fortified wine category.
This distinctive dual maturation process imparts a complex tapestry of flavors to the whisky. It intertwines the influence of the fortified wine casks seamlessly with the rich malt character and the delicate interplay of aromatic spices. The end result is a whisky that offers a truly remarkable tasting experience, characterized by its sumptuous fruity notes, underlying sweetness, and a tantalizing hint of aromatic spice. This makes it an excellent choice for those who appreciate the finer nuances of whisky.
Tasting Note by Morris Australian: Nose: Rich with dates, figs and sweetness of dark molasses.Palate: Well balanced and complex. Dried fig, sweet malt, vanilla and spices with creamy mouth feel.Finish: Superb oak influence, lovely finish with satisfying after taste that lingers on the palate.
Stauning Bastard is a rye whisky crafted exclusively from local ingredients. Malted on the distillery's floor and double-distilled in flame-heated pot stills, it embodies authenticity. After maturing for a minimum of three years in new, toasted virgin American oak casks, it is further refined with an additional six months or more of aging in seasoned mezcal casks from Mexico's Oro de Oaxaca. This unique combination imparts a distinct character to the whisky.
Tasting Note by Stauning Whisky:Nose: Sweet pipe tobacco smoke, raisins, oat biscuit, citrus, oak.Palate: Tobacco, vanilla, barley, dried fruit, cinnamon, brown sugar, molasses, shortbread, oak.Finish: Long sweet, slightly smoky, salty, brown sugar, pepper.
Stauning El Clásico is a Nordic whisky that boasts an Iberian essence. This matured rye whisky has been enhanced with additional aging in vermouth casks, drawing inspiration from the classic Manhattan cocktail where rye whisky and sweet vermouth combine seamlessly. With the aim of encapsulating this cocktail's allure within the whisky itself, the matured spirit was given a vermouth cask finish. This experiment proved to be a triumph, yielding a whisky that radiates a rich, amber hue and offers a palate of sweet nuances tempered by bitter botanicals. Whether savored in a sophisticated cocktail or relished neat, its flavor profile is characterized by the warmth and robustness of freshly harvested grains, rounded off with a spicy and bittersweet finale.
Tasting Note by Stauning Whisky:Nose: The nose is filled with the scent of apples, oranges, ripe plum, warm spices, cinnamon and roasted caramel.Palate: The lips are meet with a sweet and piercing kiss of dried fruits, citrus and crushed pepper.Finish: The warm aftertaste has bittersweet notes of vermouth that stays inside the body for a long time.
Essentially, this bottle encapsulates the essence of Stauning. It melds a touch of smoke, a hint of spice, and layers of complexity, epitomizing a versatile Nordic whisky.This whisky is highly adaptable: If one desires a pure, unadulterated experience, they can savor it neat, reminiscent of a classic scotch. Adding ice introduces a bourbon or rye ambiance, and for those looking to elevate their traditional whisky cocktails, this offers a delightful Nordic disruption.
Tasting Note by Stauning Whisky:Lightly smoked, spicy and sweet, a whisky with complexity and structure.On the nose: cereals, chocolate, oak, caramel, cinnamon and bonfires.A taste like a smoked chocolate bar with a palate of nougat, caramel, liquorice, sweet apple and oak.A long smokey aftertaste with vanilla, orange, tobacco, dried red fruit and more oak.
This beverage captures the essence of freshly baked Danish rye bread in liquid form. A Nordic rye whisky, it boasts rich, roasted scents paired with an enduring fruity finish.It stands apart as a unique rye whisky. The blend of malted rye and barley, combined with pot still distillation, results in a whisky that is smooth, fruity, and robust in character.
Tasting Note by Stauning Whisky:Freshly-baked rye bread, wine gums and hint of pepper on the nose. Gentle, dried fruit, ripe cherry and peppery oak on the palate, balanced by vanilla and citrus peels, leading to a peppery finish and long smooth, fruity and sweet finish.
Stauning Smoke is the embodiment of the distillery's forward-thinking New Nordic-whisky ideology. This delicately smoked single malt whisky is crafted using exclusively local ingredients. It is malted on open floors and smoked over locally sourced peat and heather, emblematic of the surrounding Stauning landscape. This malt undergoes a double distillation in small pot stills heated by flames and is then matured in first-fill wine and spirit casks.
The outcome is a sophisticated and polished whisky that provides a subtle smoky flavor, richly imbued with the essence of the dunes, heath, and the gusts from the North Sea.
Tasting Note by Stauning Whisky:The taste of buzzing bees and the heather of the moorland in a bottle: A gentle bonfire smoke blends with elegant notes of citrus and honey. In the mouth, a rich taste of tobacco, nuts, vanilla and fresh herbs opens up.
11-year-old English single Malt from the English Distillery in Norfolk! Launched in 2016, it's England's oldest registered whisky distillery, and it's superb to see some impressive aged single malts joining its ranks. With vibrant spice and sweet, tropical fruit notes, this is a cracking sunset sipper.
Tasting Note by The English:Sweet and spicy; dry and woody with lovely oak overtones. The fruits come across with the cherries apples and tropical fruits dominating. A nicely balanced peppery and spicy tingle on the tongue, with a rich, oily and slightly dry finish.
The English Smokey is a peated single malt whisky aged to perfection in specially selected casks. With a peat level of 45ppm, it offers a delightful hint of smoke on the palate, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy Islay-style whiskies. Like other expressions from The English, this whisky is non-chill filtered and maintains its natural color, ensuring an authentic and robust flavor profile.
Tasting Note by The English:A gentle aroma with hints of vanilla, aniseed & ginger, a creamy palate, a little peat initially and then the smoke bomb! Finish is long, spicy and smokey.
Benromach 15 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky is a distinguished expression that has been aged for a full 15 years. With an ABV of 43%, it showcases the brand's commitment to quality and craftsmanship. This whisky is exclusively matured in first-fill bourbon and sherry casks, which play a significant role in shaping its exceptional flavor profile.
Tasting Note by Benromach:Nose: Aromas of sweet toffee leading to notes of cracked black pepper and peat smoke. Rich forest fruits develop with dark chocolate and dried banana.Palate: Creamy and sweet with ripe apples and an undertone of charred oak. Dark chocolate develops and leads to toasted malt and orange peel with a subtle hint of smoke.Finish: Medium creamy finish with soft smoke and dried fruit.
Benromach 10 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky is a well-regarded expression that has been aged for a decade. With an ABV of 43%, it is known for its quality and craftsmanship. This whisky is exclusively matured in first-fill bourbon and sherry casks, which contribute to its exceptional flavor profile.
Tasting Note by Benromach:Nose: Sweet green apple and pear complement creamy dark honey. Soft vanilla develops alongside gentle smoke.Palate: Smooth flavours of malted cereal and stewed fruit combine with warm toffee and a hint of black cherry.Finish: Full bodied finish with malted cereal and soft smoke.
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.
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.
With only 254 bottles produced, this limited edition single cask malt whisky is a true gem for collectors and enthusiasts alike. Matured for three years in an American oak bourbon barrel.
Tasting Note by Kingsbarns:Nose: The aroma reveals the presence of green apple and pineapple, offering a refreshing and vibrant quality. There is a subtle sharpness present, enhancing the overall freshness of the scent.Palate: The taste is characterized by a delightful combination of freshness, fruitiness, and sweetness. Clear notes of chocolate intertwine with the prominent presence of chili, providing a distinct flavor profile.Finish: The finish is notably long-lasting and showcases a noticeable heat from the chili, leaving a pleasant and slightly burning sensation on the lips.
Apogee XII from Bimber Distillery is an exquisite whisky crafted from a blend of selected malt whiskies, each of which has been matured for a minimum of 12 years. This extended maturation period allows the whiskies to develop complex flavors and characteristics.
One of the unique aspects of Apogee XII is its additional maturation in ex-bourbon casks that were previously used to mature Bimber whisky. This finishing process in Bimber's own casks adds a layer of depth and complexity to the final product.
Tasting Note by Bimber:Nose: Spiced pears and oven-baked apricot flans are sweetened by candy necklaces and scented with rosewater, nutmeg and powdered ginger.Palate: Syrupy orchard and stone fruits provide a bright and fresh mouthfeel supported by lightly charred oak, gentle white pepper and cooling mint.Finish: Lingering ripe and sweet fruits alongside sympathetic, aromatic oak.
Bottled at barrel proof and non-chill filtered, this bourbon remains true to its roots, delivering an undiluted and unadulterated taste that will leave you in awe. Embrace the power and purity of Maker's Mark Cask Strength. With a proof ranging from 108 to 114, depending on the barrels, this bourbon commands attention and demands respect. This is a bourbon for those who appreciate the boldness and strength that only cask strength can provide.
Tasting Note by Maker's Mark:Nose: Big oak, vanilla and smoky charcoal.Palate: Richer, more robust flavors of spice, vanilla and smoke.Finish: Longer finish on front of tongue with no roughness or bitterness.
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.
