The opening release in a new series honouring the people behind Laphroaig’s history. Chapter 1 pays tribute to Donald Johnston, the elder of two brothers who founded the distillery in 1815. His influence on the style and legacy of Laphroaig is reflected in this inaugural bottling, presented alongside striking illustrations by British artist Bill Bragg.
This whisky spent 33 years maturing in a mix of American oak ex-bourbon casks and European oak sherry-seasoned hogsheads. Bottled at fixed strength, it captures the depth of its long rest in the warehouse, offering a profile shaped by time and tradition.
Tasting Note by Laphroaig:Nose: Starting with stewed fruit and smooth vanilla créme brûlée.Palate: Our iconic smoky finish sets the scene for savoury aromas of cured meat.Finish: Sherry casks bring warm festive spice.
Project 04 // Inverarity Morton is a limited-edition blended Scotch whisky created in collaboration with Inverarity Morton—a family-run business supporting the whisky trade since 1945. With a focus on bold character and versatility, this malt-forward blend was designed to surprise and delight, whether served neat or in mixed drinks.
Blended in February 2024 and bottled at 49.1% ABV, only 470 bottles were produced. The whisky features an extended finishing period in a yet-to-be-specified cask, chosen to add a final flourish in honour of Inverarity Morton’s ‘extra mile’ ethos.
Blend Summary
Strathclyde Distillery (Grain) – 36.1%
Glenlossie Single Malt – 19.4%
Loch Lomond (Non-Peated) – 16.7%
Glenrothes Distillery – 13.9%
Invergordon Distillery (Grain) – 11.1%
Glentauchers Distillery – 2.8%
Tasting Note by JPHA: A malt-heavy blend offering a rich texture, with notes leaning toward fruit, floral, and gentle wood, rounded by subtle funk and minimal smoke. A layered and engaging dram, built with balance and drinkability in mind.
Initially matured in a combination of refill and hogshead casks, this Aberfeldy expression is finished in first-fill Sangiovese wine casks sourced from the Valdarno di Sopra region in Tuscany, Italy.
Cask finishing is a refined practice, where a whisky that has matured predominantly in one type of cask is transferred to another for a final period of ageing. This method is intended not to alter the distillery’s core character, but to enhance it—introducing new layers of flavour that work in harmony with Aberfeldy’s signature style.
The use of first-fill Sangiovese casks imparts notable depth and rich fruitiness, adding complexity without overpowering. As with all Aberfeldy expressions, this whisky is non-chill filtered and retains its natural colour, reflecting both authenticity and careful cask selection.
Tasting Note by Aberfeldy:Ripe cherries and succulent red plums beautifully layered with candied orange peel and honeyed figs, then delicate floral notes of violets. Subtle clove spice emerge, complemented by a touch of vanilla and toasted oak.
At 15 years old, this whisky showcases refined, fragrant fruit notes, marking a new stage of maturity and flavour exploration. The Master Whisky Maker expertly balances the spirit’s natural elegance with the bold influence of European oak sherry-seasoned casks, creating a unique harmony of delicate character and rich depth. The result is The 15 – a vibrant expression with bright, sweet spice at its core.
Tasting Note by Glenrothes:Nose: Dark brown sugar, baked orchard fruits and bright spice. Hazelnut praline, candied orange peel and maple syrup are complimented by toasted oak and soft worn leather.Palate: Caramelised pears, dark chocolate and sweet baking spices - cinnamon, clove and cardamom. Pecan pie, crystallised ginger and orange marmalade. Soft, rich and mouth-coating.Finish: Rich, sweet and silky with lingering bright spice.
With its deep autumnal hue and considered maturation, this 21 Year Old expression reveals a richly layered and distinctive character. Aged in hand-selected ex-Bourbon and Oloroso Sherry casks, and finished in first fill Pedro Ximénez Sherry wood, it offers a compelling interplay of flavours. From earthy notes of tobacco leaf and heather to the sweetness of toffee treacle and beeswax, the whisky displays remarkable breadth and complexity. Its final chapter in Pedro Ximénez Sherry casks is a quiet tribute to the instinctive craftsmanship of the Master Blender.
Tasting Note by Bowmore:Nose: A complex tapestry of tobacco leaves and heather, sweetened by rich toffee treacle and beeswax.Palate: A complex, cosmopolitan mix of sweetness, barbecued meat, berries and a whisper of salty smokiness.Finish: Rounded, sweet woods and gentle smoke linger expressively on the tongue as a lasting memory.
The Bowmore 18 Year Old Sherry Cask presents a well-balanced interplay between bright citrus notes and the soft, recognisable presence of the distillery’s signature peat. Matured in carefully chosen ex-Bourbon and Oloroso Sherry casks, and finished in Pedro Ximénez Sherry wood, this expression is marked by both depth and composure. Its maturation journey brings together varied fruit tones and gentle peat, resulting in a whisky that is at once expressive and measured, with a layered complexity that reflects Bowmore’s distinctive character.
Tasting Note by Bowmore:Nose: A sweet symphony of rich dark chocolate and cocoa beans, with zesty citrus and a rich peatiness.Palate: Sensationally layered orange peel, moist sultanas, aniseed spice, and cocoa beans.Finish: Powerfully and expressively fruity, with immense depth and complexity.
A testament to careful maturation, this complex 15 Year Old Sherry Oak Cask expression balances sweetness with gentle spice in a composed and layered profile. Aged for no less than fifteen years, it draws character from both European Oak Oloroso Sherry casks and American Oak ex-Bourbon casks, before being finished in European Oak casks seasoned with Oloroso Sherry. The result is a nuanced whisky, where indulgent sweetness meets subtle spiced undertones in harmonious fashion.
Tasting Note by Bowmore:Nose: Moist Corinth raisins and sweet dates. Cinnamon, dark chocolate, and enveloped in subtle smoke.Palate: Cedarwood, treacle toffee, boiled sweet confectionery, clove spice and liquorice root.Finish: Intriguingly rich and wooded, revealing contented sweet spice.
Strathearn Batch 02 Single Malt Scotch Whisky is the second release from Strathearn Distillery. It combines spirit matured in ex-Bourbon, Virgin Oak, and ex-Sherry oak casks, with a greater influence from Bourbon casks and less from Virgin Oak compared to the previous release.
Batch 02 is created from a vatting of 31 selected casks, including stock inherited by and produced under Douglas Laing's ownership. Bottled at 50% ABV, the whisky is free from added colouring and chill-filtration.
Tasting Note by Strathearn:Nose: Anticipate a rich, sweet nose with Sherry influence, orange zest, malted barley, and honey.Palate: The full-bodied palate offers dark fruits, spices, toffee, and caramel.Finish: While the long, buttery finish lingers with oak, ginger, and toasted nuts.
The 12 Year Old is gently matured in carefully hand-selected Oloroso sherry and ex-bourbon casks. Resolving with an Oloroso sherry cask finish creates extraordinary layers of rich sensory discovery. Its gentle maturation in meticulously chosen Oloroso sherry and ex-bourbon casks gives it an intriguing yet inviting complexity.
Tasting Note by Bowmore:Nose: Intricate layers to explore, from mouth-watering vanilla caramel, red berries, and marzipan, to hints of dried fruit.Palate: A carnival of ripe pears, lemon juice, cinnamon, toasted almonds and peaches in syrup, as smoke levels crescendo.Finish: Our 12-Year Old resolves with clear intent, offering a pleasingly long and spicy finale.
The Macallan Harmony Collection Intense Arabica is the second release in this limited annual series, drawing inspiration from the world of coffee. Paying homage to the Ethiopian Arabica bean—the first cultivated coffee species—this edition celebrates the deep connection between whisky and coffee craftsmanship.
As part of The Macallan’s commitment to sustainability, the packaging is crafted using repurposed coffee bean husks, a natural by-product that would otherwise be discarded. The striking red hue of the presentation box reflects the vibrant color of coffee cherries, reinforcing the theme of this exclusive release.
Guided by innovation and expertise, The Macallan Whisky Maker collaborated with world-renowned coffee masters to explore the journey from field to cup, shaping an expression that embodies a shared passion for craftsmanship and tradition. The Harmony Collection – Intense Arabica offers a unique experience for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Tasting Note by Macallan:Nose: Tiramisu, cappuccino, gingerbread, raisins, almonds, sweet oak, vanilla.Palate: Espresso, dark chocolate, raisins, tiramisu, blackberry, vanilla, Brazil nut, sweet oak.Finish: Long, dark roast coffee, balanced and sweet.
Dewar's Double Double 21 Year Old is a testament to innovation in whisky-making, crafted using an intricate four-step ageing process. Master Blender Stephanie Macleod has perfected the art of blending by marrying malt and grain whiskies, then finishing the blend in Oloroso Sherry casks. This meticulous approach creates a whisky with subtle hints of cinnamon, ripe vine fruits, and a silky smooth finish, earning it recognition as 'World's Best Blended' at the 2021 World Whiskies Awards.
Tasting Note by Dewar's:Nose: A sweet buttery nose opens onto big sherry notes of raisins and cinnamon.Palate: On the palate, dried orange peel with cloves graduates into a candied sweetness. Finish: A lingering dram that will keep you warm in the Winter and would mix well with bitters and sugar to make a Christmas Old Fashioned.
Distilled on 12th July 2000 and matured for two decades in a refill puncheon, this double cask expression was finished in a Tokaji (white wine) cask from 12th August 2021, chosen and overseen personally by Royal Brackla's Malt Master, Stephanie Macleod.
Royal Brackla holds a unique place in whisky history as the first single malt ever granted a Royal Warrant, earning it the name "The King's Own Whisky." Founded in 1812 by Captain William Fraser, the distillery's Highland character has always leaned toward the elegant and the fruit-driven, qualities this cask brings fully into focus.
The Tokaji finish draws on Hungary's celebrated dessert wine tradition, known for its botrytis-affected grapes and concentrated, honeyed sweetness. That influence shows clearly here: ripe peaches and apricots up front, mellowed by frangipane and a soft, lingering note of coconut.
This is a double cask bottling from a single distillation date. 258 bottles exist worldwide, and there's no second batch behind this specific cask pairing.Tasting Note by Royal Brackla:Deliciously supple with ripe peaches and apricots, mellowed with fragipane and soft coconut.
Part of Aberfeldy's Exceptional Cask Series, this 22 Year Old White Port Cask Finish is a double cask limited edition personally selected by Malt Master Stephanie Macleod from the distillery's maturing stock. Filled in November 2001 and transferred to White Port casks in July 2022, it represents one of just 276 bottles — a genuinely rare opportunity to experience Aberfeldy's celebrated honeyed Highland character in a form that will not be repeated.
Aberfeldy Distillery was established in 1898 in Perthshire, drawing process water from the Pitilie Burn, a source long associated with alluvial gold deposits and renowned for its purity. Distilled in alembic copper pot stills crafted by Forsyths, the distillery produces a fruity, richly honeyed style that has long defined its reputation as the Golden Dram. Here, that character has spent the majority of its life in refill hogsheads and refill barrels before finishing in White Port casks, which have lent a bright stone fruit lift and delicate floral freshness to the whisky's deep, honeyed foundation. Bottled at natural cask strength of 51.7% without chill-filtration, this is a collector's release of considerable distinction.
Tasting Note by Aberfeldy:Delightful interplay of ripe peaches, nectarines and apricots , subtle vanilla undertones slowly emerge, with a zest of orange peel and delicate spices adding a layer of warmth, the cask finish perfectly accentuating the honeyed notes of Aberfeldy.
Founded in 1897 beside the River Spey and revived in 2012 by Ian Macleod Distillers, Tamdhu has maintained a singular focus on 100% sherry cask maturation since its founding. The Distinction III is an exclusively UK release that takes that commitment a step further, dedicated entirely to American oak sherry cask maturation from the very beginning of the cask's life through to the final bottling.
The Quercus Alba casks begin their journey in the oak forests of North America before being imported into Spain's sherry triangle, where the staves are air-dried in the Mediterranean sun, assembled and toasted by experienced coopers, and seasoned with Oloroso sherry over a period of six years before travelling to Tamdhu. The result is a whisky of exceptional natural colour and rich, fruit-forward depth, available exclusively through specialist retailers in the UK.
Tasting Note by Tamdhu:Nose: Shortbread dipped in vanilla cream, oak, citrus and peppermint.Palate: Rich, soft oak coats the mouth – giving way to plums and chocolate limes.Finish: Unshakeable sherried oak fades to dried cherries and honeycomb.
The BenRiach Malting Season 2 celebrates the distillery's restored traditional malting floor, using hand-malted Concerto barley distilled in autumn 2013 and matured in first-fill bourbon casks until it was bottled in 2022 at 48.9% ABV. This process preserves the pure flavour of the raw ingredient, showcasing a whisky crafted entirely from barley malted in-house at BenRiach.
Tasting Note by Benriach:Nose: Rich malt sweetness with barley sugar and mandarin enrobed in creamy white chocolate.Palate: Smooth honeycomb infused with citrus and orchard apple, with an enveloping fruit, malt and vanilla cream finish.
Named the world's best blended Scotch at the 2025 World Whiskies Awards, the Dewar's Double Double 21 Year Old is the result of a method most distilleries have never attempted.
The Double Double sequence uses four casks — not in parallel, but in order. Bourbon first, to lay the foundation. Sherry second, for dark fruit and depth. Marsala third, adding richness no single finish can reach. Finally, Madeira — a fortified wine cask almost absent from Scotch production — closes the sequence with a warmth collectors specifically seek and rarely find.
Twenty-one years for the sequence to complete. Bottled at 46% ABV, non-chill filtered. Nothing removed that belongs in it.
The result is velvety and unhurried — deep notes of ripe fruit, sweet honey, and dark chocolate, with a sherried finish that lingers long after the glass is empty.
Tasting Note by Dewar's: Nose: Sweet stone fruits, golden honey, creamy vanilla and subtle citrus zest. Palate: Smooth white chocolate, delicate cinnamon spice and layered dried fruit with nutty undertones. Finish: Long and silky, with a refined balance of fruit, oak sweetness and the gentle warmth of sherry.
Glencadam Reserva de Jerez is a beautifully crafted single malt, distilled in 2007 and matured in ex-bourbon American oak casks from the distillery’s historic dunnage warehouses. After careful selection, the whisky is expertly finished in Oloroso Sherry butts sourced from Jerez, Spain. This unique process imparts rich, complex flavours, bringing depth and character to the Glencadam Single Malt, with subtle influences from the sherry wood.
Tasting Note by Glencadam:Nose: Rich and pronounced with aromas of praline, roasted nuts, golden syrup and candied peels.Palate: Sweet layers of maple pecan Danish, sultanas, milk chocolate and heather honey bound with nutmeg and oak spices.Finish: Warming notes of apple strudel and custard tarts fading into a linger of sweet spices and espresso coffee.
Tomintoul 15 Year Old Tawny Port Cask Finish is a limited-edition single malt, crafted in the heart of the Cairngorms since 2008. Initially matured in American oak ex-bourbon casks, it’s then refined in handpicked Tawny Port barriques from Portugal, adding layers of rich fruitiness. Bottled at 46% ABV, this uncoloured and non-chill filtered whisky offers a smooth, sweet, and complex flavour profile. With only 6,072 bottles available, it’s a rare and distinctive dram for whisky lovers.
Tasting Note by Tomintoul: Nose: Inviting aromas of cooked fruits and cinnamon pastries mingled with glace cherries, dark chocolate and clove spices.Palate: A wash of baked strawberry, stewed rhubarb and vanilla custard married with sweet nougat, candied almonds and cocoa powder.Finish: Nutty and warming with notes of coffee cake, ripe brambles, walnuts and dark chocolate lingering on the tongue.
Tomintoul 14 Year Old Pedro Ximénez Sherry Quarter Cask Finish is a rare expression, distilled in 2009 and aged in American oak ex-bourbon casks before its final maturation in handpicked Pedro Ximénez sherry quarter casks from Spain. These casks infuse the whisky with deep, rich fruit notes that enhance its natural sweetness and complexity. Bottled at 46% ABV, with no colouring or chill filtering, this limited release of 4,380 bottles delivers a beautifully balanced, fruity, and smooth offering from the heart of the Cairngorms.
Tasting Note by Tomintoul: Nose: Deep and rich with aromas of chocolate fudge cake, maple syrup, dried fruits and cedarwood.Palate: Indulgent layers of maple pecan pie, chocolate ganache, raisins and roast nuts mingled with coffee grounds, tobacco and baking spices.Finish: Long and warming leaving impressions of tiramisu, dark chocolate and Brazil nuts lingering on the tongue.
This 11 year old Glenrothes single malt, part of Gordon & MacPhail's Discovery series, is matured in sherry casks, offering a rich and fruity profile. The Discovery range categorises whiskies into ‘Sherry,’ ‘Smoky,’ and ‘Bourbon,’ making this expression a delightful introduction to the diverse flavours found within the Gordon & MacPhail portfolio.
Tasting Note by Gordon & MacPhail: Nose: Zesty seville orange aromas appear with plenty of cinnamon and clove spice. Stewed fruits - red berries, plum, and cherries are complemented by nuances of milk chocolate.Palate: Creamy; followed by cracked black pepper, dark forest fruits with warming spice. Orange marmalade flavours come to the fore. Roasted walnut leads to toasted oak.Finish: Long lasting with lingering chocolate and orange flavours.
Octomore 15.2 is an exceptional single malt whisky, showcasing the unique combination of American oak, red wine, and French ex-cognac cask maturation. Crafted from 100% Scottish barley and peated to 108.2 PPM, this expression offers a compelling comparison to its 15.1 counterpart, highlighting Octomore’s distinctive character and innovative approach to whisky-making.
Tasting Note by Bruichladdich:Nose: Sweet citrus, lime zest and lemon meringue pie open on the nose, followed by toasted oak and a hint of earthy smoke. A medley of tropical fruit enhances the vibrancy of the single malt whisky, balanced with woody spices, smoked honey, toasted bread, and roasted coffee.Palate: Viscous in texture, the sumptuously smooth spirit brings vanilla custard, caramel, toffee and a crack of black pepper. Charred oak, cinnamon and a hint of nutmeg provide added depth with pear drops and dried apricot cutting through Octomore’s inimitable peat smoke.Finish: An unmistakable maritime quality lands on a finish, with waves of salt spray settling on the palate while peat embers linger.
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.
Blair Athol 13 Years Old undergoes an extended maturation in a single Sangiovese red wine cask sourced from Italy. The well-rounded and intricate characteristics of the Sangiovese harmoniously blend with the rich depth of Blair Athol, creating a uniquely refined expression.
Tasting Notes by Douglas Laing & Co:Nose: Dark cherries, dried fruits, and spiced oakPalate: The unique Italian oak allows the malty sweetness from the highland whisky to shine throughFinish: Long, smooth finish brimming with red berries and sweet vanilla
Ardmore 10 Year Old Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky from the Old Particular range is a limited edition, distilled in January 2012 and bottled in December 2022. Matured in an ex-Laphroaig barrel (Ref: DL16980), it is uncoloured and non-chill filtered, with an alcohol strength of 48.4%. Only 348 bottles were produced.
Tasting Notes by Douglas Laing & Co:Nose: Fruity / hard candy in style then comes bonfire smoke and heavily charred wood.Palate: Oily and thick with soot and ash alongside crispy bacon and peated barley.Finish: Lingers long with puffs of smoke, a hint of allspice and cured meat. (CSL)
The fourth release in the Hebridean Series, matured for 26 years, offers a balanced profile of spice and sweetness, with vanilla, toffee, cinnamon pastries, and toasted malt notes. Bottled at 49.2% ABV, it stands apart from earlier releases in the series. Master Blender Julieann Fernandez notes that, unlike the fruity, floral character of younger expressions, this release features a darker, heavier sweetness with woodsmoke, caramelised sugar, and treacle toffee—an unexpected result from uncharred González Byass Oloroso Sherry casks.Tasting Notes by Tobermory:Nose: A burst of dark brown sugar fades to reveal fresh strawberries, vanilla fudge, candied ginger and dried sultanas.Palate: A perfect balance of spicy and sweet; vanilla, toffee, walnuts and freshly baked cinnamon pastries intertwined with gentle oak and toasted malt.Finish: Lingering woody finish with notes of chocolate covered hazelnuts.
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.
Crafted by Master Distiller Robert Fleming, this small batch Tomintoul is aged in ex-bourbon barrels and finished in Madeira wine casks. It offers a rich bouquet of fresh fruity flavours balanced perfectly by spiced ginger and cacao notes.
Tasting Note by Tomintoul:Nose: A bouquet of summer berries, spiced fruits and ginger biscuits with chocolate orange and baking spices.Palate: Layers of juicy cantaloupe melon, brambles and candied peels with chocolate mousse, syrup flapjacks and toasted oak.Finish: Cosy cake spices and cacao with highlights of ripe banana, vanilla panna cotta, and marmalade.
A vibrant, smooth, and complex expression. Aged initially in ex-bourbon casks and finished in Tempranillo wine casks, this small batch edition is not one to miss.
Tasting Note by Tomintoul:Nose: A bouquet of strawberry jam, cinder toffee, syrup sponge cake and cooked fruits with vanilla and chamomile highlights.Palate: A wash of mixed berry compote, brandy snap biscuits, and custard pastries married with white pepper, toasted oak, and cappuccino coffee.Finish: Cosy impressions of dark chocolate, raspberry, and stem ginger fading into an espresso and roast chestnut linger.
Produced in small batches, the Amarone expression features carefully chosen single malt aged in exceptional American oak ex-bourbon casks from Glencadam's historic dunnage warehouses. It is then expertly blended and finished in select Amarone wine casks sourced from Italy.
Tasting Note by Glencadam:Nose: Sweet aromas of cherry jam, marzipan, fruit nougat and pistachio bound with baking spices.Palate: A wash of red fruits, crystallised ginger, and strawberry liquorice mingled with oak spices, candied peels, and cacao.Finish: Layers of cappuccino, dark chocolate, Morello cherry, and raspberry jam leave a warming wood spice linger.
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.
The year 2000 was pivotal for Ardbeg, marking the renovation of the distillery and the creation of rare stock by Dr. Bill Lumsden and his team. As a limited series blending modern techniques with old stills, the Vintage Y2K stands out as a smoky anomaly with an unparalleled story.
Tasting Note by Ardbeg:Nose: Herbal, sweet and fragrant, with a subtle, distant perfumed smokiness. Next a quirky, zesty note like lemon balsam emerges, along with a suggestion of linseed oil and candied walnuts. A splash of water and the fragrance intensifies, emitting heather honey, a touch of creosote and the tiniest trace of tent canvas.Palate: The texture is fizzy and effervescing (sherbety), with a real, vibrant effervescence on the tongue. At first the flavour is intensely sweet, then shifts as aniseed, toffee, digestive biscuits, peppermint, menthol, tar and coffee grits burst through.Finish: The sooty/tarry flavours keep building, until they finally dissolve into a long, lingering aftertaste of antiseptic lozenges, bitter oranges and oak tannins.
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.
These casks were part of David Stewart's initial experiment to finish The Balvenie in French Pineau casks. After a few years, the results were not as expected, so he explored using a different source of Pineau, resulting in the creation of French Oak 16. However, this batch continued to age in the original casks and was discovered by Kelsey after 8 years in Pineau. She found they had developed into something remarkable.
Tasting Note by Balvenie:Nose: Warming amber tones from toasted oak and delicate spice are immersed by smooth butterscotch and hints of ripe berries.Palate: Intriguing layers of spice and rich sweetness layer on creamy vanilla and honey before revealing gentle oaky tannins.
Originally set aside to become a 12 year old single barrel, this whisky was found to have developed a subtle smoky flavour upon tasting, due to being distilled immediately after peat week, even though the barley used was unpeated. It matured for 14 years in some of Balvenie's finest bourbon casks.
Tasting Note by Balvenie:Nose: Velvety sweetness, rich toffee and smouldering oak reveal crisp citrus aromas and ever flowing honey musk.Palate: Candied orange peel is grounded in woody, earthy flavours from beautifully roasted malt and deep vanilla oakiness.
The exceptional Royal Brackla 25 Year Old Pedro Ximénez limited edition is now available, with only 64 bottles in the UK. Aged for 25 years in first-fill Bourbon barrels and finished in PX Sherry casks, this whisky represents the pinnacle of Royal Brackla’s core offering, showcasing Stephanie's expertise in cask selection and finishing.
Presented in a clear flint bottle with gold and red screen-printed text, it features a gold standard tin capsule and a zamac gold cork. Each bottle is encased in an FSC-sourced wooden box with blue paint, Kurz Luxor gold foil, and screen-printed details.
Tasting Note by Royal Brackla:A mighty dram cloaked in robes of velvet: luscious summer fruits, overlayed with rich, spice-laden raisins and dried figs, adding weight and complexity to our summer dram. The aroma melts into pools of milk chocolate, balanced with ground coffee and toasted almonds. An endless and serene dram that will linger deliciously on the palate.
The Craigellachie 37 Year Old Whisky, part of the limited edition Exceptional Cask Series with only 3012 bottles available, exemplifies outstanding quality and craftsmanship. Initially aged in refill casks, it undergoes a final maturation in first-fill ex-Bourbon casks. This finishing process enhances the distinctive Craigellachie distillery style, allowing its unique character to be fully expressed. This remarkable whisky was also honored with the title of Best Single Malt Scotch Over 25 Years Old at the IWC 2024.
Tasting Note by Craigellachie:The aroma opens with notes of pineapple tarte tatin and crème anglaise, balanced with soft cereals and notes of toasted banana bread. Faint whispers of fire embers emerge with the addition of water then fade to spicy vanilla and delicate oak-derived coconut. The palate is boldly complex with sweet acidity at first, mellowing to soft fruits and almonds with a long, indulgent finish.
Working in collaboration with independent English retailers, the AON 18-443 is exclusively aged in STR ex-red wine casks. The result is a deliciously creamy whisky, boasting sweet, fruity and buttery notes.
Tasting Note by Nc'nean:Sticky toffee pudding, buttery fudge and fruit crumble.
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.
Carefully curated from Glencadam's revered dunnage warehouses, this expression features single malt meticulously aged in premium ex-bourbon American oak casks. Following expert blending, the whisky undergoes a distinctive finish in hand-selected White Port barriques sourced from Portugal, adding a unique layer of flavour and complexity.
Tasting Note by Glencadam:Nose: Tangy strawberries and stone fruits bounde with Chantilly cream, buttery malt and citrus oils. Palate: Sweet layers of summer berries and baked apple mingled with golden raisins, raspberry jam and brandy snap biscuits. Finish: White pepper and custard tarts fading into a cinder toffee and sandalwood linger.
A mixture of malts from Highland and Speyside along with grain whisky from the Lowlands, aged in both American and European oak barrels, imparts a robust taste reminiscent of Scotland's rugged Moorlands to this whisky. Its complexity is deepened by a finishing process in Oloroso Sherry casks, adding layers of character.
Tasting Note by Wildmoor:An epic landscape of rich oak, deep vanilla and mellow sherry spice, inspired by Scotland’s wind swept moorlands.
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.
Milroy’s Vintage Reserve aims to embody the graceful sophistication of aged distillates. These exceptional releases reflect the timeless whisky traditions of bygone eras. The 27 Year Old Benriach showcased here epitomizes this ethos perfectly. In contrast to many distillery releases, which blend various cask types, this bottling stands out for its straightforward approach. Aged to perfection in a refill hogshead, it harks back to an era when floor maltings were commonplace at the North Speyside distillery, offering a nostalgic glimpse into its history.
Tasting Note by Milroy's:Nose: Grassy yet dessert-like, poached pears come through first along with coconut, peanut, cashew, rich tea biscuits and a dusting of icing sugar. Palate: It gets a little richer here, with profiteroles, red fruits and caramel wrapped up in a brandy butter texture. Finish: Medium to long, with a rich oakiness.
Milroy's curated Soho Selection showcases youthful, dynamic spirits with distinctive cask finishes. This ex-hogshead Highland Peated Malt exemplifies this ethos perfectly. With its distinctive ashy peat notes and captivating texture, it offers a fascinating and delightful tasting experience.
Tasting Note by Milroy's:Nose: Immediately peated, but with an airy lightness. There’s a straw-like freshness, as well as fruit compote notes. Palate: Pear drop and strawberry lace sweets come through, alongside crisp white pepper and raw vanilla pods. The smoke acts like a seasoning. Finish: Long, with persisting sweet, ashy smoke.
Matured in select refill bourbon barrels and American oak hogsheads, followed by a six-month finish in first-fill Oloroso sherry casks, Glen Scotia's 21 year old whisky offers a smooth, aromatic profile. Its Oloroso finish imparts floral notes, maintaining rich fruit flavors and subtle maritime hints, embodying a classic Campbeltown character.
Tasting Note by Glen Scotia: Nose: Sweet perfumed oloroso, spiced red apple, peppercorns with a soft signature Campbeltown aromaPalate: Baked red apples, plump raisins, a journey of cloves, star anise, cinnamon and spice. Soft creamy vanilla, toffee and sea sprayFinish: Long, complex and incredibly balanced, with a lingering touch of sea salt and sherry dryness
Introduced in 2017 as a part of the Wood Finishes series, the Peated Port Wood variant from Glenglassaugh strikes a harmonious balance between sweetness and smokiness. This no age statement whisky matured initially in ex-bourbon barrels and was later finished in ruby port pipes, leading to an approachable Highland single malt. It merges honeyed sweetness with dark fruits and a mild peat flavor, showcasing the distinctive character of this Banffshire distillery's creation.
Tasting Note:Nose: Ripe strawberry and cranberry notes, a touch of salt, and a strong scent of peaty smoke.Palate: A smooth, sweet profile with a touch of cinnamon spice, evolving into mellow smoky notes, complemented by slow cooked pears and blackberry. Finish: Dominated by sweetness, featuring tarte cherry flavors and a subtle note of citrus.
Glenglassaugh's Peated Virgin Oak Wood combines sweet earthiness with its coastal peated spirit. Matured in American Virgin Oak casks, Glenglassaugh develops rich candy and fresh spice notes, evoking a seaside confectionery. Bottled at 46%, it retains its natural colour and is non-chill filtered.
Tasting Note:Nose: Initially sweet, combining sweet peat, oak spices, vanilla, and dried coconut. Evolves to clean smoke, with hints of sea breeze on a warm wooden deck and honeyed peaches and apricots.Palate: Sweet and dry peat smoke, slightly ashy. Sweet spicy oak and honey are prominent, with a hint of coconut. A brief fruity burst is followed by vanilla and honey.Finish: Medium-length finish featuring peat smoke, honey, fruit, and a lasting spicy oak.
The Tomintoul 15 Years Old Madeira Cask Finish, distilled in 2008, initially matured in ex-bourbon American oak casks before undergoing a special finishing process in Madeira wine casks personally selected by Master Distiller Robert Fleming from Portugal's Madeira Islands. These Madeira wine casks have flawlessly complemented the Tomintoul Single Malt, infusing it with rich fruit flavours that enhance the whisky's character and complexity. Bottled at 46% abv, it maintains its natural colour and avoids chill filtration. This release is limited to only 6,654 individually numbered bottles.
Tasting Note by Tomintoul:Nose: Sweet butterscotch, maple syrup and brambles, cushioned with ground coffee and dark chocolate.Palate: Juicy layers of chocolate covered raisins, stewed plums, candied peels and tiramisu married with liquorice, treacle toffees and peppery oak spices.Finish: Toasted nuts, espresso coffee and cacao highlighted with dark fruits, fennel and ginger spices.
