Uncover the latest trends in spirits without breaking the bank. Shop our curated selection of trending whiskies and spirits, all under £70. Elevate your taste experience with these affordable yet exceptional choices. Explore the spirits everyone is talking about and embrace the trendsetter within you!
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.
Roebuck Estates Blanc de Noirs 2015 is an exclusive creation meticulously crafted from hand-picked Pinot Noir grapes cultivated in our Roman Villa vineyard. Following a rigorous selection process, these grapes undergo whole-bunch pressing and partial fermentation in the finest French oak casks. A generous period of lees aging, lasting a minimum of 36 months, imparts depth, complexity, and richness to this wine. While it is currently enjoyable, its potential for improvement with further bottle aging is undeniable, promising an even more exceptional drinking experience in the future.
Tasting Note by Roebuck Estate:Ripe stone fruits and baked apples layered with notes of brioche and toasted almonds.
The Classic Cuvée 2016, a deliciously complex English sparkling wine known for its opulence, texture, and finesse, is the perfect companion for life's most cherished moments. The grapes destined for this vintage are carefully hand-harvested and undergo whole-bunch pressing. A portion of the fermentation process occurs in the finest Burgundian oak barrels, followed by extended lees aging for a minimum of 36 months. These precise techniques result in a wine that boasts additional richness, depth, and complexity, making it an outstanding choice for those seeking a truly exceptional wine experience.
Tasting Note by Roebuck Estate:Baked apples and stone fruit layered with a biscuity richness and delicious hint of hazelnut.
Holding the title as Europe's top-selling Scotch whisky and acclaimed as the World's Best Blended Scotch in 2020, its recipe has remained unchanged and loyal to its origins since 1910.
Tasting Note by Ballantine's:Nose: Soft, elegant, heather honey aromas with a hint of spice.Palate: A balance of subtle, sweet flavours like milk chocolate, red apple and vanilla.Finish: Fresh and floral after-taste that creates a rounded glow.
The English Whisky Company aptly names this single malt whisky "Smokey Virgin," featured in their esteemed Small Batch Release series. This whisky has earned its name as it underwent a 6-year maturation process in new (virgin) oak casks infused with the essence of peat smoke, resulting in a distinctive character and a notable 46% ABV.
Tasting Note by The English:Nose: The aroma reveals the scent of peaches in cream, accompanied by fresh citrus notes, smoky malt, and a subtle hint of ginger.Palate: The taste begins with a grassy peat flavor, followed by the presence of nutmeg, milk chocolate, and crisp apples.Finish: The finish is characterized by a floral quality, along with a touch of smokiness and sweetness.
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.
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.
This exquisite blend seamlessly marries southern charm with rugged cowboy style, offering a whiskey with an abundance of character. Distinguished by a higher bourbon content, it exudes a fuller flavor profile compared to traditional Canadian blends while maintaining its signature smoothness and a subtle touch of sweetness. Whether gracing a top shelf in Texas or anywhere around the world, it is a worthy addition for discerning whiskey enthusiasts.
Tasting Note by Yellow Rose:Nose: Light aroma, fruity banana with caramel. Palate: Sweet with banana.Finish: Medium finish.
THE WISEMAN Bourbon from Kentucky Owl is a masterful fusion of four distinct Kentucky straight bourbons. This exceptional bourbon has been honored with a Double Gold Medal at the esteemed 2022 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, a testament to its exceptional quality and craftsmanship.
Tasting Note by Kentucky Owl Bourbon:Nose: With The Wiseman Bourbon the first thing you discover is a sweet caramel aroma, followed by a warming allspice lift, a sprinkling of citrus and a hint of oak.Palate: The Wiseman Bourbon offers caramel and allspice which present an excellent flavor as the mildly silky liquid crosses the tongue. The allspice sticks around for a longer finish with caramel.
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.
Part of Gordon & MacPhail’s Discovery Range, this Ledaig 12 Year Old introduces the unmistakable smoky and maritime character of Tobermory’s peated spirit. Matured in a combination of bourbon and sherry casks, the whisky balances sweet and smoky notes, capturing the essence of the Isle of Mull’s coastal environment. Bottled at 43% ABV, it showcases the harmony between rich fruit, smoke and oak influence.
Tasting Note by Gordon & MacPhail: Nose: Peat smoke opens to reveal maple-cured meat, toffee and baked apples, with seaside grasses and a gentle briny edgePalate: Stewed fruits, sultanas and currants mingle with milk chocolate and crème brûlée, alongside sweet toffee, citrus bursts and a smouldering bonfire ember noteFinish: Lingering oak fades slowly to reveal soft hints of citrus
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.
PIAFF Blanc de Blancs
Grape: 100% Chardonnay
Vineyard: Côte des Blancs
Terroir: The vineyard faces east, with thin topsoils that allow the Chardonnay vines to delve into chalk at shallower depths than in other areas, renowned for its pronounced minerality.
Vinification: Stainless steel
Time on lees: A minimum of 3 years
Closure: Cork and cage
Tasting Note by Champagne Piaff:Soft floral aromas are highlighted by a delicate yet enduring mousse, which also has hints of fresh hazelnuts and almonds. White fruits are presented on the palate in great proportion with a particularly pleasant minerality and notes of brioche/yeastiness. The palate has excellent structure and longevity.
Glen Scotia 15 is a refined single malt, embodying Campbeltown's unique character. Aged in first-fill bourbon and re-fill American Oak casks, it combines smooth vanilla oak tones with spicy, fruity notes of apricot and orange blossom.
Tasting Note by Glen Scotia: The distinctive nose contains understated flavours of sea spray, spicy aromatic fruits, and vanilla wood, all interlaced together.
Glen Scotia Double Cask whisky is a prime introduction to their range, ideal for those exploring whisky. It defies age with its rich toffee and fudge notes. Aged initially in bourbon barrels and finished in PX sherry casks for 12 months, it offers a blend of rich fruit flavours and distinctive Campbeltown character.
Tasting Note by Glen Scotia: It offers the ideal balance of rich, spicy fruits, overlaid with the distinctive sea spray and vanilla oak finish for which the house of Glen Scotia is renowned.
Louis Royer VSOP Cognac is a product of tradition and heritage, crafted according to a family recipe that has stood the test of time for over 150 years. The Louis Royer family, deeply rooted in the Cognac region with their base in Jarnac, has a unique connection to beekeeping, which is reflected in their choice of the bee as their family emblem. This longstanding commitment to quality and tradition is embodied in every bottle of Louis Royer VSOP Cognac, making it a testament to the rich history and craftsmanship of the brand.
Tasting Note by Louis Royer:Nose: A lovely twirl of apricots, plums, peaches, oak, leather and tobacco on the nose.Palate: Sweet intro followed by a farrago of dark fruits, oak and tobacco.Finish: Rich, soft and warm lingering finish.
Upon examination of its scent, one can detect the inviting presence of orchard fruits, conjuring images of ripe apples and pears. These fruity notes are artfully complemented by the essence of macerated black cherries, which lend a luscious and slightly indulgent facet to the whisky's fragrance. Accompanying these fruit-driven elements is a subtle hint of biscuit, adding a touch of comforting familiarity to the olfactory experience.
In terms of taste, the whisky further unfolds its complexity. The zestiness of marmalade jam offers a lively and invigorating note, set against a backdrop of lingering cocoa undertones. Additionally, hints of dark berries intermingle with the other elements, contributing depth and dimension to the flavor profile. These various components come together harmoniously, creating a captivating and balanced taste.
What truly distinguishes this expression is its distinctive finish, a result of its aging process in prized and award-winning fortified wine barrels. These barrels infuse the whisky with an unparalleled intensity of dried fruit characteristics. Consequently, the whisky's finish is exceptionally rich and enduring, allowing the depth of character to resonate on the palate long after the initial sip.
Tasting Note by Morris Australian:Nose: Orchard fruit profiles, macerated black cherry and biscuit notes.Palate: Extremely well rounded with a pleasant mouth feel. Zesty marmalade jam, lingering cocoa and dark-berry flavours.Finish: Prize winning ex fortified barrels impart an unrivalled finish of dried fruit intensity, delivering a seamless rich depth of character that lingers long 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.
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 Original is an unpeated single malt whisky that has been aged to perfection in carefully chosen Bourbon casks. It is known for its easy-drinking and classic character, making it a great choice for whisky enthusiasts. Notably, this whisky is non-chill filtered and retains its natural color, preserving its authentic qualities.
Tasting Note by The English:A gentle aroma with hints of vanilla and tropical fruits. Like a soft whipped vanilla ice cream. Melts on the palate. Slightly nutty with a long malty finish. Finish is clean, dry and slightly salty.
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 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.
Originating from the barrel and christened in honor of a royal endorsement, Rémy Martin 1738 Accord Royal stands out as a genuinely unique cognac. It possesses an exceptional smoothness, with a blend that highlights the distinctive oakiness of its eaux-de-vie.
Tasting Note by Remy Martin:Nose: Generous notes of plum and fig jam rounded out with intense oaky notes of toffee & toasted bread.Palate: The mellowness of butterscotch, baked spices with hints of dark chocolate.Finish: Exceptionally round with a creamy aftertaste and concentrated nutty aromas imparted by a careful blend of eaux-de-vie aged in toasted French oak casks.
Rémy Martin VSOP (very superior old pale) procures grapes solely from the Grande and Petite Champagne areas, which are also referred to as Cognac Fine Champagne. Rémy Martin VSOP represents the impeccable balance of potent and graceful fragrances, exemplifying the Cellar Master's expertise in combining different elements.
Tasting Note by Remy Martin:Nose: Dominant notes of vanilla due to longer ageing in French Limousine oak barrels. Followed by ripe apricot, baked apple and elegant floral notes.Palate: A perfect harmony between the strength of ripe fruit and subtle notes of liquorice; offering a great complexity of elegant and powerful aromas.Finish: Well-balanced, structured and multi-layered. Combines the roundness of ripe fruit with a pleasant mouthfeel and silky texture.
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.
The second batch of JJ Corry The Hanson, bottled in 2020, is a blend of three casks of grain whiskey sourced from various distilleries in Ireland. This blend results in a whiskey with a bright, fruity character highlighted by notes of rich oak, smooth vanilla, toasted flavors, and hints of apples, pineapple, lively citrus, and rhubarb.
Tasting Note from JJ Corry:Nose: Deep oak, warm vanilla and toasted notes.Palate: Rich and surprisingly complex, this sip finishes with a touch of spice and a hint of oiliness
Maturing exclusively in 100% Oloroso sherry casks, this whisky serves as a fantastic entry point for individuals who appreciate the rich, sherried profile. It embodies the distillery's distinctive style and provides an excellent starting point for those who enjoy sherried whiskies.
Tasting Note by Glenfarclas:Nose: Fresh and beautifully light, sherried fruit combined with a tempting spicy sweetness and a hint of sappy oak.Palate: Full-bodied with delightful sherried fruit, oak and delicious sweet sensations.Finish: Long and flavoursome, with a lingering spiciness.
This whisky achieves its exceptional character through 100% Oloroso Sherry cask maturation. It offers a remarkable smoothness while delivering the depth and finish typically associated with much older spirits. With its wonderful sherry influence, this whisky serves as an outstanding aperitif, promising a delightful drinking experience.
Tasting Note by Glenfarclas:Nose: Tempting sherry-sweet malty tones combine with delicate smokiness, releasing subtle spices. Warming the glass reveals honey, vanilla and pear drops.Palate: Delicately light, with a mouth-watering combination of maltiness, smokiness and sherry sweetness. Hints of dried fruit, vanilla, cinnamon and cloves tempt thetaste buds further.Finish: Long, smooth and spicy with a delicious, yet delicate, lingering smokiness.
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.
As the name suggests, The One is a uniquely balanced blended whisky, well-suited for any occasion. It harmoniously combines carefully chosen grain and malt Scotch whiskies from the renowned regions of Speyside and Islay, with The Lakes Single Malt whisky at its core.
Tasting Note by The Lakes Distillery:Nose: Fresh orchard fruits, butterscotch and a hint of smoke.Palate: Vanilla custard with lightly honeyed fruits and a touch of spice.Finish: Creamy and smooth with delicate wood smoke.
The second edition of Evolution follows the success of Revival. This limited release offers a glimpse into the intriguing interaction between their spirit and ex-Tennessee whiskey casks. Maturing in barrels that once held George Dickel whiskey, this expression provides a unique and captivating experience.
Tasting Note by Glenglassaugh:Nose: A luscious syrupy combination of sweet barley, delicate pineapple and waves of soft buttery vanilla. Deeper oak spices and caramelised pear develop and warm the nose.Palate: Robust, white peppery oak floods through crisp green apple and freshly crackedbarley. A gentle salted caramel emerges alongside hints of ripe banana and fruit salad syrup.Finish: A vibrant combination of classic oak spices and delicate soft fruits surroundedby fragrant waves of vanilla pod.
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.
Benriach's Smoke Season Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky is a special edition that harkens back to the historical roots of the Speyside region. While Speyside is not commonly associated with heavily peated or smoky whiskies, records from the 19th century indicate that such styles were once a part of the region's distilling tradition.
This special edition whisky is crafted to celebrate the time of year when peated spirit runs through Benriach's stills, a tradition that was revived by the distillery over 50 years ago. Smoke Season is a small-batch release that showcases one of Benriach's time-honored production techniques.
What sets this whisky apart is its intense smokiness, balanced with exquisite sweetness. It undergoes a two-cask maturation process, aging in both American virgin oak and bourbon barrels. These wood types are intentionally chosen to enhance and amplify the toasted sweet notes present in Benriach's smoky spirit.
Master Blender Dr. Rachel Barrie has fine-tuned a new recipe for this expression, making it the most intensely smoked whisky ever released by the Benriach distillery. It's a unique and bold addition to the distillery's range, celebrating the rich history and craftsmanship of Speyside whisky-making.
Tasting Note by Benriach:Nose: Caramel smoke, oak spice, citrus peel.Palate: Smoked dark vanilla, seared apple, and cinnamon with lingering charred orange into a sweet and smoky finish.
Originally introduced over 175 years ago by the distillery's founders, the Glenmorangie 10-year-old whisky was celebrated for its gentle and delicate character.
To impart a delightful and versatile finesse to the Original expression, the whisky is meticulously crafted in tall stills reminiscent of giraffes. It then undergoes a decade of maturation in bourbon casks, allowing it to absorb a rich tapestry of enticing flavors.
The outcome is a remarkably smooth whisky that greets your palate with a vibrant rush of citrus, followed by an engaging exploration of luscious tastes. These flavors range from zesty orange to sweet honey and creamy vanilla, punctuated by delightful bursts of peach.
Tasting Note by Glenmorangie:Nose: Citrus and ripening peaches are balanced by vanilla softness.Palate: Vanilla emerges, then gives way to a burst of flowery fruitiness.Finish: A clean and salving aftertaste with hints of orange and peach.
Ardbeg Ten Years Old stands unparalleled, globally celebrated as the quintessence of peated whiskies. Renowned for its intense smokiness and rich complexity, this single malt doesn't merely parade its peaty essence. Instead, it artfully allows the innate sweetness of the malt to emerge, striking a harmonious balance that enchants the palate.
Maintaining its true essence, this whisky is non-chill filtered, preserving its authentic flavors and depth. Matured in ex-bourbon casks, it carries hints of the cask's history, adding another layer of complexity and character to this already distinguished spirit.
Tasting Note by Ardbeg:Nose: A burst of intense smoky fruit escapes into the atmosphere of 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: The finish goes on and on a long and smoky with tarry espresso, aniseed, toasted almonds and traces of soft barley and fresh pear.
In their pursuit of crafting exceptional whisky, Deanston's whisky creation team stands apart. They meticulously choose top-tier American virgin oak casks, procured from Kentucky's Kelvin Cooperage. These casks undergo toasting and charring before being filled with Deanston's new make spirit, allowing it to mature for 9-12 months—a finishing approach that strikes a delicate balance. This process enhances Deanston's zesty citrus notes with rich flavors of soft honey, creamy vanilla, and hints of spice, without overwhelming the spirit's character. The result is a unique and outstanding whisky, showcasing Deanston's commitment to innovation and quality.
Tasting Note by Deanston:Nose: Heady virgin oak, bursting with lemon zest and sweet barley sugar, with delicious notes of apple and nutmeg.Palate: A delightful sweetness, evoking memories of candied fruits and vanilla toffee, balanced with heather honey.Finish: A satisfying light spice, with a rewarding burst of honeyed malt and sweet oakiness.
Bunnahabhain's Toiteach A Dhà combines peated malted barley with a strong sherry influence for a truly unique experience.
Translated as 'Smoky Two' in Scots Gaelic, it follows the original peaty expression. Crafted from a blend of ex-Bourbon and Sherry casks matured in our coastal warehouses, this whisky offers a subtle smoky character, lively strength, and a lingering, sweet sherry influence.
Tasting Note by Bunnahabhain:Nose: Intriguing peatiness with hints of sherry and rich oak.Palate: Immediate warming peatiness drift to a sweet Oloroso sherry influence with rich oak, balanced with delicate pepper.Finish: Robust length for the discerning palate.
Being the original member of Bunnahabhain's current Core Range, the Bunnahabhain 12 Year Old occupies a special place in their hearts. It was first introduced in 1979, and its longevity of nearly four decades owes much to the dedication and commitment of the distillery team, as well as the affection and support from fans and friends worldwide.
This 12 year old expression has established the standard and tone for the rest of their collection, demanding nothing but excellence. It undergoes a double maturation process in Ex Bourbon and Ex Sherry Casks, resulting in a whisky of exquisite richness and full-bodied character, striking the ideal equilibrium between Bunnahabhain's distinctive nutty and sherry notes.
Tasting Note by Bunnahabhain:Nose: Fresh and aromatic, fruity floral with hints of dried fruit and a subtle prevalence of smoke.Palate: Light with fruit notes, nutty flavours with a sweetness and slight hints of vanilla and caramel.Finish: Lingering, beautifully rich and full-bodied.
In their whisky-making process, the distillery opts for the finest virgin French oak casks.
A journey of maturation begins in American White Oak ex-bourbon casks before a portion of the whisky is transferred into six different virgin oak casks sourced from various regions in France.
The outcome is a whisky known for its fruity and spicy qualities, with distinct flavors including crème caramel, baked peach, and sweet liquorice.
Tasting Note by Jura:Nose: An aromatic fusion of coffee, ginger spice and a hint of milk chocolate.Palate: Crème caramel, baked peach, liquorice and candied orange.
Benriach The Twelve Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky is a delightful expression that showcases the artistry of the distillery's maturation process. This whisky is matured for at least twelve years, and it undergoes a unique three-cask maturation.
To create Benriach Twelve, the spirit is matured in three types of casks: sherry casks, bourbon barrels, and port casks. This triple maturation imparts a rich and complex flavor profile to the whisky. It's a harmonious marriage of different cask influences.
Tasting Note by BenRiach:Nose: Rich maple honey, cocoa and baked forest fruit.Palate: Maraschino cherry, baked orange and hazelnut, with a lingering sultana and spiced mocha finish.
Benriach The Smoky Ten Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky is a distinctive expression that pays homage to Benriach's unconventional approach to whisky-making. In the early 1970s, the distillery broke with tradition in Speyside by returning to the old-style method of distilling batches of whisky with malted barley that was smoked with Highland peat.
This unique approach using wood-rich Highland peat gives Benriach's peated whiskies a distinctly sweet and smoky character. The Smoky Ten is crafted from a combination of unpeated and peated spirit. It undergoes a triple maturation process, spending at least ten years in a combination of bourbon barrels, Jamaican rum casks, and toasted virgin oak.
Tasting Note by BenRiach:Nose: Ripe orchard fruit syrup, smoked honey glaze and oak spice.Palate: Smoked applewood, honey maple and spiced pear finishing with lingering fruit and smoked oak.
Benriach The Original Ten Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky is a fine representation of the distillery's character and craftsmanship. This expression encapsulates the signature smooth and multi-layered profile of Benriach.
The Original Ten is aged for at least ten years and undergoes a unique maturation process, which involves three different types of casks: bourbon barrels, sherry casks, and virgin oak casks. This maturation imparts a complex array of flavors and aromas to the whisky.
The result is a whisky with layers of luscious orchard fruit, sumptuous honeyed malt, and toasted oak. These flavors are interwoven with a subtle trace of smoke, adding depth and complexity to the overall profile. Benriach The Original Ten is an excellent introduction to the distillery's signature style and the richly layered character of Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky. With a natural cask-imparted color and an ABV of 43%, it promises a delightful tasting experience.
Tasting Note by Benriach:Nose: Rich orchard fruit, honey and toasted oak.Palate: Ripe pear, nectarine and malt sweetness, with a finishing note of almond and spiced vanilla.