Salty Sea Flavour in Single Malt Scotch Whisky is a captivating journey to the rugged coastlines of Scotland's maritime regions. This distinct flavor profile evokes the bracing sea air, briny ocean spray, and coastal minerals that shape the character of these whiskies. The influence of the sea brings forth an intriguing interplay of saltiness with underlying notes of seaweed, iodine, and a subtle maritime sweetness. Each sip is a sensory voyage, reminiscent of the untamed beauty of Scotland's coastal landscapes, offering a unique and invigorating whisky experience.
This 18 Year Old Single Malt has garnered numerous prestigious awards, a testament evident once you savor its exquisite flavors. The whisky's rich mahogany hue reveals its exclusive sherry cask aging, while the subtle hint of salt on the palate serves as a poignant reminder of their coastal setting.
Situated adjacent to the shoreline and benefiting from a bay nourished by the Sound of Islay, the pervasive influence of the salty sea breeze is inescapable, particularly during the 18 year maturation process.
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.
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.
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.
Ledaig 10 is a meticulously crafted 10 year old single malt whisky known for its unique smoky profile, originating from Tobermory Distillery. Much like all their single malts, this peated Ledaig undergoes no chill filtration and retains its natural colour. It's bottled at 46.3% ABV and is made using peated barley (30-40ppm) of the concerto variety.
Tasting Note by Tobymory: Nose: Sweet briny smokiness with distinct island character and playful notes that hint at mild antiseptic, creosote, wax polish, mint chocolate and floral seaside aromas. Soft peat, gentle smoke.Palate: Tantalisingly sweet, medicinal flavours infused with enticing sparks of spicy pepper and dried fruit with rich peaty smoke and a velvety vanilla and malty creaminess.Finish: A wondrous union of sublimely spicy white pepper, the vibrant sweetness of liquorice and a kick of cloves with a exquisite lingering saltiness.
Nestled under the Mull of Oa, Ardbeg Distillery endures the Atlantic's harsh elements while enjoying natural shelter. Ardbeg An Oa reflects this rugged environment with its rounded, mellow character, crafted in the Gathering Vat. The blend of Pedro Ximenez, Virgin charred oak, and ex-bourbon casks creates a harmonious whisky with signature peat, dark chocolate, aniseed, and smooth butterscotch.
Tasting Note by Ardbeg:Nose: Peat infused with zesty lemon and lime, wrapped in waxy dark chocolate. Bold menthol and black pepper slice through the sweet smoke followed by tarry ropes and graphite. Savour the aroma of smoked fish and crispy bacon alongside green bell peppers, baked pineapple and pear juice. Add water and an oceanic minerality brings a breath of cool, briny seaspray. Waxed lemon and lime follows with coal tar soap, beeswax and herby pine woodlands. Toasted vanilla and sizzling cinnamon simmer with warm hazelnut and almond toffee.Palate: An explosion of crackling peat sets off millions of flavour explosions: peat effervesces with tangy lemon and lime juice, black pepper pops with sizzling cinnamon-spiced toffee. Then comes a wave of brine infused with smooth buttermilk, ripe bananas and currants. Smoke gradually wells up on the palate bringing a mouthful of warm creamy cappuccino and toasted marshmallows. As the taste lengthens and deepens, dry espresso, liquorice root and tarry smoke develop coating the palate with chewy peat oils.Finish: Long and smoky with tarry espresso, aniseed, toasted almonds and traces of soft barley and fresh pear.
Introducing the Ledaig 12 Year Old (Smoky) from the Discovery collection by Gordon & MacPhail. Are you ready to embark on a flavor-filled journey through the world of single malt whiskies? Look no further than the Ledaig 12 Year Old (Smoky) - the perfect introduction to the esteemed Gordon & MacPhail portfolio. Immerse yourself in a world of flavor and character exploration. The Discovery collection was expertly curated to offer a range of single malts that cater to different palates. The Ledaig 12 Year Old (Smoky) proudly represents the "SMOKY" profile, delivering a sensory experience like no other. Prepare to be captivated by a symphony of aromas. With every sip, the nose reveals earthy notes of grassy peat and seaside seaweed. As you delve deeper, subtle hints of sweet green apple candies dance in the background, adding a touch of sweetness to the smoky allure. The palate is an adventure in itself. Experience the delightful combination of peppery smoke, the richness of burnt sugar, and the refreshing essence of cloudy lemonade. It's a harmonious blend of flavors that will leave your taste buds tingling with delight. As the flavors linger, hints of cedar gradually emerge, adding an additional layer of complexity to the finish. The Ledaig 12 Year Old (Smoky) is a whisky that demands attention and leaves a lasting impression. Indulge in the remarkable craftsmanship of Gordon & MacPhail and embark on a journey of flavor discovery. Whether you're a seasoned whisky connoisseur or a curious novice, the Ledaig 12 Year Old (Smoky) is a must-have addition to your collection. Elevate your whisky experience and savor the allure of this exceptional expression.
Tasting Note by Gordon & MacPhail: Nose: The aroma reveals the earthy notes of grassy peat and seaside seaweed, with a subtle presence of sweet green apple candies lingering in the background.Palate: On the palate, you'll experience a delightful combination of peppery smoke, the richness of burnt sugar, and the refreshing essence of cloudy lemonade.Finish: As the flavors linger, hints of cedar gradually emerge from the smoky profile, adding an additional layer of complexity to the finish.
The Ledaig Triple Wood is an inaugural release, curated in collaboration with Tobermory Distillery's Island Ambassador and the renowned wildlife filmmaker Gordon Buchanan, marking a union of three iconic Ledaig single malts. This blend signifies the partnership among Tobermory Distillery, Gordon Buchanan, and the Mull and Iona Community Trust, a charitable associate in a strive to uphold, safeguard, and conserve the island of Mull in the Scottish Hebrides.
This luxurious whisky comprises three classic Ledaig single malts, each meticulously matured in distinct casks — Wine, Bourbon, and Port. These are expertly harmonized by Master Blender, Julieann Fernandez. The outcome is a distinctive, smoky whisky brimming with hints of apple, vanilla, smoky oak, toffee, and a lingering touch of maple syrup.
Tasting Note by Tobermory: Nose: Sweet nose with notes of poached pears dusted with cinnamon, creamy butterscotch and American cream soda.Palate: An initial burst of apple strudel an vanilla ice cream is balanced with cracked black pepper, wood smoke, toasted oak and treacle toffee.Finish: Lingering smoky finish with cloves and a touch of maple syrup.
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 Glentauchers 12-Year-Old 2010, selected by Milroy's, is a single malt that was initially matured in a refill hogshead before being reracked into a first-fill Manzanilla hogshead for further aging. This whisky, distilled in 2010 and bottled in 2022, has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 56.3%. This particular expression was limited to just 251 bottles, making it a rare and collectible release.
Tasting Note by Milroy's:Nose: Clean, poised and citrusy with buttery baked apples with demerara sugar.Palate: Distinctly waxy with sharp fresh ginger, fresh malt, lemon drizzle cake and salted caramel crunch.Finish: Distinctly Palo-Cortado – dry but with hints of figs and burnt butterscotch.
Tomintoul 25 Years Old is a masterful creation by their esteemed Master Distiller, Robert Fleming, who has meticulously curated the very finest casks of Tomintoul for this exceptional expression. This beautifully balanced and complex single malt has been nurtured in the finest bourbon barrels, resulting in a bold, rich, and fruit-forward whisky with an enduring, lingering finish. Its outstanding quality was duly recognised when it received the accolade of Best Scotch Whisky at The Global Spirits Masters in 2020, reaffirming its status as an exceptional single malt.
Tasting Note by Tomintoul:Nose: Bold and rich with aromas of treacle toffees, oat biscuit and sultana highlighted with hints of muscovado sugar and toasted oak. Palate: Sweet and complex with layers of salted caramel, rolling tobacco, caramelised nuts and maple syrup bound with oaky spices and stone fruit highlights.Finish: Warming and long with notes of coffee cake, creme caramel and brunt sugar.
Lagavulin, often referred to as "the king of Islay," is an essential Scotch Whisky beloved by connoisseurs and enthusiasts worldwide. Aged for a minimum of 16 years in oak casks, this sought-after Single Malt boasts the signature peat-smoke flavor of southern Islay. It also offers a remarkable richness and dryness, making it an intriguing and quintessential choice for whisky aficionados.
Tasting Note by Lagavulin:Nose: Intensely flavoured, peat smoke with iodine and seaweed and a rich, deep sweetness.Palate: Dry peat smoke fills the palate with a gentle but strong sweetness, followed by sea and salt with touches of wood.Finish: A long, elegant peat-filled finish with lots of salt and seaweed.
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.
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 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.
In Tobermory's second release within The Hebridean Series, the bottling strength has been raised to 52.5% ABV to emphasise the influence of the Oloroso sherry casks during maturation. This increased strength amplifies the spirit, resulting in a bolder, spicier character compared to the 23 Year Old Release. Like all of Tobermory's whiskies, this 24 Year Old unpeated Tobermory expression is bottled with its natural color and remains non-chillfiltered.
Tasting Note by Tobermory:Nose: Delicate citrus notes with caramelised dates, roasted walnuts and rich dark berries.Palate: Nutmeg and cinnamon beautifully balanced with a salty tang. Sweet notes of blackcurrant jam and vanilla with toasted oak and a hint of cocoa.Finish: Salted caramel and a hint of hazelnut.
Distilled in 1997 at the legendary Laphroaig Distillery, this exceptional whisky has been carefully aged for 21 years to create a truly remarkable drinking experience. The nose reveals a captivating blend of roasted chestnuts and caramelized oranges, accompanied by an intense smokiness that is characteristic of Islay whiskies. With its exclusive bottling for Milroy's and individually numbered authenticity, this is a rare gem that deserves a place of honor in any whisky collection.
Tasting Note by The Character Of Islay:Nose: The aroma is reminiscent of roasted chestnuts and caramelized oranges, accompanied by intense smokiness and a hint of medicinal undertones. There is also a subtle touch of black tea.Palate: The taste offers a rich combination of smoky peat and chewy toffee sweetness. The presence of solid oak notes and a touch of briny seaweed adds complexity to the flavor.Finish: The finish is characterized by a delicate ash flavor and a lingering smokiness. It is accompanied by the presence of dates and oily walnuts, providing a satisfying conclusion.
The Port Charlotte 10 year old is exclusively created, distilled, aged, and bottled on Islay. Crafted from 100% Scottish barley, it undergoes a slow distillation process using tall, slender-necked stills to achieve a harmonious, heathery barbeque smoke flavor.
Tasting Note by Bruichladdich:Nose: The smoke is calmed by the marine, ozone character, time has brought abalance, a harmony in the combination of oak, smoke and spirit. While the smoke isalways discernible on the nose it is dry, earthy, peatash in its style and so allows the oakto come forward with waves of golden caramel, fudge, vanilla custard, hints of ginger,nutmeg and clove. There is citrus fruit, coaxed from the glass with a drop of water,gentle lemon meringue and clementine. Breathe deeply and the floral aromas of wildthyme, heather and sea pink bring you to this Atlantic coast.Palate: On the palate there is a noticeable delicacy and softness in texture and style.Again, the balance of flavour is superb as the smoke wraps loosely around thesweetness drawn from deep within the oak. Coconut, vanilla custard, lemon honeycombines with smoked oysters and sun baked salty sand.Finish: The finish is sublime, smoky sure, but also the soft sweetness of fudge andmalted barley, orange, mango and Banoffee pie hinting of the depth and quality of theoak. The many layers interchange on each sip. As the smoke comes and goes so toothe notes of the spirit, ripe apple and apricot, beautifully intertwined with malt and oaksweetness and that typical Port Charlotte style dry smoke.
Indulge in the exquisite taste of Talisker 10 Year Old 2009 (Old Particular). This limited edition whisky is a true gem, with only 376 bottles in existence. Each bottle has been meticulously selected by Douglas Laing, ensuring uncompromising quality and a truly exceptional drinking experience. From the moment you take your first sip, you'll be transported to the rugged shores of the west coast. The nose reveals the enticing aroma of a smoky beach bonfire, mingling with the freshness of rock pools and the sweetness of salted caramel chews. As the whisky caresses your palate, you'll be greeted by the perfect marriage of fresh malted barley and the briny essence of seaweed. The subtle notes of charcoal and rubber add depth and complexity, while the delicate touch of sea salt leaves a lingering impression. But it doesn't end there. The finish is nothing short of extraordinary. A symphony of flavors unfolds, with the warmth of ginger spice, the tanginess of lemon drops, and the gentle embrace of peat. The subtle hints of cured ham and the richness of burnt toffee add a decadent touch, leaving you craving for more. Not only does this Talisker 10 Year Old 2009 (Old Particular) offer a captivating flavor profile, but it also boasts a visually stunning presentation. Presented in premium gift tubes, this whisky is not only a drink of unparalleled quality but also a visual delight. The highly informative labels provide a glimpse into the craftsmanship and passion that went into creating this masterpiece. Whether you're a whisky connoisseur or a curious explorer of fine spirits, this limited edition Talisker 10 Year Old 2009 (Old Particular) is a must-have addition to your collection. Don't miss out on the opportunity to savor the rare and exclusive taste of this exceptional whisky.
Tasting Note by Douglas Laing & Co: Nose: Smoky beach bonfire, west coast rock pools and salted caramel chewsPalate: Fresh malted barley married with seaweed, charcoal, rubber and sea saltFinish: Long with ginger spice, lemon drops, gentle peat, cured ham and burnt toffee (CGL)
The award-winning whisky underwent an initial 16-year maturation in ex-bourbon casks, followed by an additional 2 years of finishing in premium sherry casks, imparting delightful sweet and fruity characteristics to the spirit. Staying true to the Tobermory Distillery tradition, this whisky is non-chillfiltered and retains its natural color. It's bottled at 46.3% ABV and occupies a place in the Ledaig (peated whisky) core range, alongside Ledaig 10-Year-Old and Ledaig Sinclair Series: Rioja Cask Finish. Ledaig 18 is an island whisky characterized by its smoky profile. It skillfully combines the enticing notes of sweetness and florals with the depth and warmth of sea salt and smoke, creating a harmonious and complex flavor profile.
Tasting Note by Tobermory:Nose: Rich, fruity sherried smokiness, lovely balance of phenols, seaweed and light creosote, dried chilli flakes, spicy black pepper with hints of sweet oakiness.Palate: Powerful rich, sherried, herbal smoky flavours, orange peel, coffee, a touch of sea salt, tobacco and white pepper.Finish: Long and quite pungent with more smoke, a hint of liquorice and sea spray.
