10305 products

Spirits & Liqueurs What's New

    Bunnahabhain Port Cask Finish 14 Year Old Feis Ile 2024 Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Islay, SCOTLAND
    $250. 00
    Bottle
    $3000.00 Dozen
    ABV: 58.7%

    Released to celebrate Fèis Ìle 2024, this 14 Year Old unpeated limited edition was matured in Bourbon casks for 11 years then transferred into Ruby Port Hogsheads for a three year finish. With similar characteristics to sherry, Ruby Port is packed full of candied fruit notes which impart flavours of cinnamon and plum complementing the creamy and malty Bunnahabhain spirit. Expect robust notes of cherries, dark chocolate and berries leading into a lingering, spicy finish. 58.7% Alc./Vol. Non chill-filtered.

    Bunnahabhain Triple Sherry Wood Finish 23 Year Old Feis Ile 2024 Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Islay, SCOTLAND
    $799. 00
    Bottle
    $9588.00 Dozen
    ABV: 53.3%

    Released to celebrate Fèis Ìle 2024, this new limited edition is an experimental combination of the finest sherry cask finishes the distillery has on offer: Amontillado, Manzanilla and Oloroso. Distilled in 1999, the spirit was transferred into a trio of sherry casks: Amontillado on the 4th of November 2009, Oloroso casks on the 20th of June 2011 and Manzanilla casks on the 12th of September 2016. Skilfully married by Master Blender, Julieann Fernandez, and bottled at cask strength, the flavours reveal themselves in a journey of discovery with each sip. The result is an exceptional burst of sherry with notes of creamy fudge, mixed nuts, vanilla pods and a hint of tobacco. Andrew Brown, Distillery Manager adds, "A combination of the best sherry cask finishes makes this a sumptuous sherry full dram." 4002 bottles are on offer. 53.3% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

    Notes from the producers... Aroma: Freshly baked almond pastries are met with sweet berries, creamy fudge, rose petals and a hint of desiccated coconut. Taste: Fresh vanilla pods, butterscotch and creamy strawberries are balanced with honeyed cashews, wood spice and a gentle hint of tobacco. Finish: Dry finish with pine needles and blackcurrants.


    Catoctin Creek Distillers Edition Single Barrel 92 Proof Roundstone Rye Whiskey (750ml)
    Virginia, UNITED STATES
    $149. 99
    Bottle
    $1799.88 Dozen
    ABV: 46%

    The culmination of several years of planning, this is a new version of the popular 'Roundstone" that comes with a slight twist. The 'Distiller's Edition' represents Cheif Distiller, Becky Harris's selection. Only one in every ten barrels gets chosen for the label. "For a few years now, we've been putting whisky away for storage," explains Becky. "We pulled some of the more interesting barrels from the back of the warehouse and decided to release these at a higher proof: a whisky specially curated for flavor, while still being remarkably smooth, as is our existing 80 proof Roundstone." 46% Alc./vol. Non chill filtered.

    2013 Chichibu Distillery Single Sweet Sherry Cask Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml) & 1992 Lustau Vintage Sweet Sherry (500ml)
    $2999. 00
    Bottle
    $35988.00 Dozen

    Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product pictured. Please note the parafilm on each bottle. This is an extra safety precaution to prevent evaporation.

    A novel set, bottled for Takashimaya Buyers Selection by famed Japanese Whisky producers, Chichibu and renowned Spanish Sherry producer, Lustau. It presents a rather uncommon opportunity to sample a sherried whisky as well as the sherry from the cask it was matured in. Distilled in 2013 in a single Lustau vintage sherry cask and bottled in 2023, putting it at the older end of many Chichibu releases. Only 578 bottles produced.

    • 92
    • 92
    Teremana Small Batch Blanco Tequila (700ml)
    Jalisco, MEXICO
    $84. 99
    Bottle
    $1019.88 Dozen
    ABV: 40%

    Since launching in 2020, Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson’s Teremana Tequilas have gradually been rolled out globally. A shipment has just landed in Australia. Many tequila fans are keen to try the range, especially since the Reposado was crowned Tequila of the Year at the USA Spirits Ratings in 2021. The result surprised sceptics who consider celebrity-affiliated brands lacking quality or substance. It also means you won't be pouring these down the dwayne!

    Scoring 93 points, winning the title was no mean feat given that many other tequilas were in the running and the competition is hosted by a tough set of judges. Teremana Blanco wasn’t too far behind, picking up a bronze.

    Says Dwayne Johnson, “The tequila that we make is of the Earth. Sustainability is something that is important to us at Teremana”. In fact, Johnson and the team focus on sustainability and people more than anything else. Partners, the Lopez Family, are third-generation agave growers and second-generation distillers in the highlands of Jalisco and will continue to oversee production. The collaboration has served free meals to over 35,000 frontline workers, supported the hospitality industry with their Guac on the Rock campaign, as well as contributed to numerous charities such as World Central Kitchen, Turning Tables, and Another Round Another Rally, totaling over one million dollars in donations. Teremana takes 100% of the agave fibers and turns them into natural compost used as an organic fertilizer for the agave fields. The distillery also uses a state-of-the-art water filtration system that cleans the water left over from production.

    Reports have it that sales in early 2023 exceeded one million 9-litre cases annually. An Instagram post by Johnson stated that “Teremana Tequila has set new records in the spirits industry, and has become the BIGGEST LAUNCH OF ANY SPIRIT EVER”. Like them or not, that's an extraordinary achievement.

    As for the tequila, it's a clear value buy in its category. At 40% the Blanco offers surprising intensity and convincing agave character on both the nose and palate. The mouthfeel also impresses, being nicely rounded and full with a briney, beeswax-like note competing with white pepper and sappy agave, trailing off minerally and dry with suggestions of grassy, green tropical fruits adding zest to the finish. A quality starting point for your next Margarita.

    Other reviews... Owned by Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, this crystalline tequila resounds with zesty bell pepper and poblano aromas. The light, crisp palate entwines lemon peel with gentle almond and marshmallow sweetness, finishing with white-pepper sparks. Mix in margaritas or palomas. 92 points - wineenthusiast.com

    ...The name means "spirit of the earth"--TERE from the Latin word for "earth" and MANA from the Polynesian word for "spirit." Grapefruit comes through first on the nose, with herbaceous agave, and lemon peel. The palate has an oily mouthfeel, with predominant grassy and mineral notes, along with light vanilla, lemon Pledge, and roasted bell peppers. The finish is clean and short, with Baker's chocolate, agave nectar and more zesty citrus. 85 points - distiller.com

    The nose here is immediately a bit plain — vegetal, muddy, and a bit sweaty, though it’s at least short of off-putting. The palate opens up a bit, initially showing notes of white pepper and some lemon. There’s a gentle sweetness rolling through the body, but a funky, heavily earthy note — not really like agave but more like damp dirt — is never far away, invariably rushing back to meet you. The pungent nose is hard to shake throughout, eventually settling into a note more akin to green beans than fresh agave, muddying the entire experience. This is usable as a mixer only. - drinkhacker.com

    • 93
    Teremana Small Batch Reposado Tequila (700ml)
    Jalisco, MEXICO
    $89. 99
    Bottle
    $1079.88 Dozen
    ABV: 40%

    Tequila of the Year at the USA Spirits Ratings in 2021.

    Teremana's Reposado rounds out and softens the spicy vivaciousness of the Blanco without compromising agave character. Vibrant, deep and textural, judicious barrel ageing has added a delectable honeyed glaze to the sappy, green pine and subdued peppercorn notes. There's substance enough to hold up to mixing, but the quality on offer means you can enjoy this as a standalone spirit. 40% Alc./Vol.

    Other reviews... Oddly, no aging information is provided, though we do know the spirit is rested in ex-bourbon barrels. Reposados usually find their aromatics tempered by barrel time, but this expression doesn’t let up on that funky, vegetal nose, though here more of a black pepper note comes through. The palate does show some of the sweetness one expects from a reposado, but not an overwhelming amount. Still, it’s enough to temper the heavy earthiness that the blanco shows, and as it develops in the glass, some butterscotch and lemon elements begin to dominate, giving the finish more of a welcome approachability. - drinkhacker.com

    1997 Adelphi Caroni Single Cask 25 Year Old Cask Strength Trinidad Rum (700ml)
    TRINIDAD
    $999. 00
    Bottle
    $11988.00 Dozen
    ABV: 56.8%

    Entering the league of semi-mythical wood aged spirits, Caribbean rum doesn't come much rarer or more collectable than Caroni. The distillery was demolished in 2001 marking the end to 'heavy' rum production in Trinidad. Stocks are rumoured to be getting low, so whatever Caroni rum is still residing in cask will be edging ever closer to the very last. Famously produced using a wooden column still, well-aged expression are the rarest and most sought after. Bottled by Adelphi for their 30th anniversary, this single refill hogshead yielded 204 bottles at 56.8% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered. Collectable.

    1989 Adelphi Mortlach 33 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND
    $1599. 00
    Bottle
    $19188.00 Dozen
    ABV: 48%

    In honor of their 30th birthday, Adelphi have dug deep for some older bottlings. It's a slightly different release being decanted from a refill bourbon hogshead instead of a sherry cask after over three decades of maturation. The result is described as a bit more fruit forward than the typical meaty Mortlach. 217 bottles are on offer. 48% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

    Notes from the bottlers... Ripe honeydew melon, candied grapefruit, peach shnapps, cardamom, cocoa powder, and orange blossom with a distinct and stunning minerality throughout. Complex, fruit-driven and elegant. 

    2013 Adelphi Smogen 10 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Swedish Whisky (700ml)
    SWEDEN
    $390. 00
    Bottle
    $4680.00 Dozen
    ABV: 58.1%

    A lesser-known European distillery makes an appearance in the latest Adelphi outturn: a single cask from Swedish upstart, Smogen. Named after a picture-book fishing village on the Skagerrak, the part of the North Sea between Denmark, Sweden and Norway, the distillery was founded in 2009 by lawyer, Pär Caldenby, who is also an author. He and his team produce heavily peated styles matured in Bourbon and Sherry casks. Rarely encountered in Australia, the yield was 232 bottles from a single x-Bourbon cask. 58.1% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

    2018 Adelphi Spirit of Yorkshire 5 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt English Whisky (700ml)
    UNITED KINGDOM
    $199. 99
    Bottle
    $2399.88 Dozen
    ABV: 48%

    The Spirit of Yorkshire distillery has been in operation since May 2016 and is a first for the district. Home of the superb Filey Bay range, the team has already received rave reviews for multiple expressions. This five-year-old was distilled in 2018, rested in a first-fill Moscatel cask until 2023, when a total of 330 bottles were independently released by Adelphi. While sherries like Pedro Ximenez and Oloroso are well known in single malt whisky maturation, Moscatel is much more unusual. The varietal is known for its floral aromas (orange blossom, jasmine and honeysuckle) as well as citric notes like lime and grapefruit. 48% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

    • 89
    • 93
    Teremana Small Batch Anejo Tequila (700ml)
    Jalisco, MEXICO
    $99. 99
    Bottle
    $1199.88 Dozen
    ABV: 40%

    2020 was a significant year for celebrity-affiliated releases and Teremana was one of the biggest of all. For the few who don't know, it's a new tequila brand backed by Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. The launch featured both a Blanco and Reposado with the Anejo following suit. Compared to its siblings, this is more restrained aromatically, the palate drier, spicier and livelier than expected for an Anejo - but no bad thing. Hints of butter-menthol cough lozenges mix with peppery warmth while the finish contributes a light oiliness, ending crisp and dry with a moderate agave character. Not exactly typical, so for those used to sweet, soft styles, Teremana's Reposado may be closer to the mark. Matured in x-whisky barrels. 40% Alc./Vol.

    Other reviews... The newest expression from the brand backed by Dwayne Johnson offers zesty jalapeño and vanilla aromas. Honey and butterscotch coat the palate, enlivened by bracing clove, cayenne and white pepper on the exit. The overall impression suggests a butter cookie rolled in spices. 93 points  - wineenthusiast.com

    "The nose and palate are like a liquid chocolate orange, with dominant tangerine and satsuma notes along with milk chocolate. The palate is rich and toffee-like, but the roasted agave notes do shine through toward the back palate and with citrus peel and more chocolate in the finish." 88 points - distiller.com

    • 92
    • Hot Item
    Ardnamurchan AD/ Rum Cask Release Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Highlands, SCOTLAND
    $149. 99
    Bottle
    $1799.88 Dozen
    ABV: 55%

    “You can feel the “funky”, fruity traces of the rum combine gloriously with the saltier and heavier characters of the distillate.” - Alex Bruce, Ardnamurchan.

    Like previous releases, the latest Ardnamurchan captures the distillery's trademark Hebridean freshness in a deliciously moreish malt. Whiskies from eighteen unpeated ex-Bourbon barrels filled in 2016 and thirteen peated ex-Bourbon barrels from 2017 were finished in x-Jamaican rum casks. The expected streak of sweet molasses remains in the shadows, however we're not told what kind of rum the barrels contained. A spokesman for Ardnamurchan has commented that some rums actually have a "...very leafy, green-cast profile", implying that's what was employed here. It would explain why this tastes fairly stereotypical instead of taking Ardnamurchan into completely new territory. The pungency of the nose is slightly restrained, but there's still plenty of peppery spark and invigorating maritime definition on the palate. Beyond the ashy peat and minerality, the whisky unfolds with salt'n'pepper crackers followed by a dry, biscuity malt character sealing the finish. It's getting close to a youthful, cask-strength Talisker but with a more relaxed vibe. 8334 bottles are on offer. 55% Alc./Vol. Non chill-filtered.

    Other reviews... Nose: Seems less expressive than most Ardnamurchan. Gentle minerals, somewhat earthy and a soft smokiness, as well as grilled lemons and apricots. Hints of lawn clippings, sandalwood and vanilla pods also. Taste: Driftwood and gentle smoke with sticky honey, white pepper and rhubarb. It has a nice saline quality, as well as notes of walnuts, ashes and marshmallows. Finish: Short to medium. Somewhat leafy with ashy smoke. - wordsofwhisky.com

    Sullivans Cove Single Cask TD0066 American Oak Second Fill 16 Year Old Single Malt Australian Whisky (700ml)
    Hobart, Tasmania, AUSTRALIA
    $899. 00
    Bottle
    $10788.00 Dozen
    ABV: 47.4%

    Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product not pictured.

    A well-aged Sullivan's Cove, filled into a cask in Dec 2005 and bottled in Aug 2022. 452 bottles produced.
    One only from a private collection. 47.4% Alc./Vol

    • 94
    Beltion Mediterraneo Amaro Digestif Liqueur (700ml)
    ITALY
    $51. 99
    Bottle
    $623.88 Dozen
    ABV: 30%

    Beltion have done a nice job on this Italian classic, recreating a robust expression from an old family recipe that achieves a satisfying bittersweet balance. The infusion of herbs, spices, bark, berries and aromatic roots combine angelica, rosemary, wormwood, star anise, nutmeg, cinnamon, juniper, rhubarb, cinchona and gentian backed up by tangy citrus peels and subtle mint freshness. Enjoy straight, over ice or cut it back with soda to taste - it retains much of its character after dilution. 30% Alc./Vol.

    Other reviews... A delicate blend of spice and cooked orange on the nose. Bark, roots and herbs come through on the palate. The finish is quite minty and lingers pleasantly. - 91 points, Silver Medal, International Wine & Spirits Competition 2024

    Gold medal in 2021 London Spirits Compeition.

     

    Bakery Hill The Blunderbuss Limited Edition Single Malt Australian Whisky (500ml) - Third Edition
    Victoria, AUSTRALIA
    $189. 99
    Bottle
    $2279.88 Dozen
    ABV: 55%

    Bakery Hill and Hop Nation Brewery continue their collaboration. 2024 marks the fifth release of the Hop Nation Imperial Stout - The Kalash - a beer that spends months in x-Bakery Hill whisky barrels. Once again, the distillery has reclaimed a freshly emptied beer cask and refilled it with five year old x-Bourbon aged whisky, leaving it for two additional years in the ex-stout barrel before bottling. The result is the third edition of Blunderbuss, ramped up with one key introduction - peated malt. The result delivers massive flavours, with a rich, creamy mouthfeel and what seems to be an everlasting finish. One barrel only has been released with an outturn of 252 bottles. Snap up your piece of history. 55% Alc./Vol.

    Notes from the producers... Nose: Honey, Leather, Coastal Peat, Dried Stone Fruit, Ripe Banana, Chardonnay, Rose water. Palate: Caramel, Roasted Malt, Dark Chocolate, Dried Mango, Musk, Light sea salt, Cracked Pepper, Honeycomb. Finish: Long lasting, Full, Milk Chocolate, Pear, Nougat, Butter Salted Caramel.

    Darroze L’unique Assemblage des Grandes Années Darroze Bas-Armagnac (700ml)
    Armagnac, FRANCE
    $399. 00
    Bottle
    $4788.00 Dozen
    ABV: 48.5%
    Closure: Cork

    A 50th anniversary release nodding to the history of the house of Darroze. Each component represents a significant year for the family in terms of the distillery's development, while adding a character peculiar to each vintage. It begins in 1974, the year Francis Darroze founded his project. Fifty year old distillates from this vintage bestow complex aromas associated with lengthy aging and bring tannic structure as well as dried fruits and spice. 1982 and 1985 were two hot years and the Armagnacs included from these harvests add volume and breadth. 1994 distillates represent a turning point for the cellars with less use of toasted oak, resulting in brighter fruit notes. Finally, the inclusion of Armagnacs distilled in 2002 and 2011, being relatively young eaux-de-vie, complete the harmony by contributing the requisite freshness. Baco and Ugni Blanc grape varieties are included in the blend in almost identical proportions (45%) with a very small complement of Folle Blanche. Bottled at what is presumably natural strength, the beautiful rectangular wax-sealed decanter will serve to heighten what promises to be a very special brandy experience. 48.5% Alc./Vol.

    Notes from the producers... Beautiful gold color, mahogany highlights. The nose is very expressive, offering delicate aromas of candied fruits (apricot, orange zest), fine spices (vanilla, cinnamon, liquorice), dried fruits (fig, almond) and lightly toasted bread. On the palate, the tannins are rich. We find the passion of a young Armagnac and the wisdom of a 50-year-old brandy. Lots of spices, leather, candied orange. An Armagnac of exquisite complexity and endless length in the mouth.

    • 86
    • 85
    • Reduced
    Talisker Port Ruighe (Port Finished) Gift Pack Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Isle of Skye, SCOTLAND
    Reduced from $154.99
    $124. 99
    Bottle
    $1499.88 Dozen
    ABV: 45.8%

    A beautifully presented gift pack including two Talisker branded whisky glasses.

    The feature whisky is Port Ruighe (pronounced ‘Port Ree’) combining liquids matured in European and American oak refill casks, heavily charred oak casks, until blended and finally transferred into ex-port casks for finishing. 45.8% ABV.
    Other reviews... Sails into Port without changing course. 85 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2020

    ...Smoky bacon crisps on the early nose, damp earth, ripe plums, and plain chocolate. Sweeter in time, with a marine note, and black pepper. Smoky peat on the palate, with a spicy, sweet red wine edge. Medium in length, with oak, black coffee, and more dark chocolate. 86 points - whiskyadvocate.com

    Note some gift box text in French.

    2014 Chichibu Distillery Single Sweet Sherry Cask Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml) & 2002 Lustau Vintage Sweet Sherry (500ml)
    $2999. 00
    Bottle
    $35988.00 Dozen

    Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product pictured. Please note the parafilm on each bottle. This is an extra safety precaution to prevent evaporation.

    A novel set, bottled for Takashimaya Buyers Selection by famed Japanese Whisky producers, Chichibu and renowned Spanish Sherry producer, Lustau. It presents a rather uncommon opportunity to sample a sherried whisky as well as the sherry from the cask it was matured in. Distilled in 2014 in a single Lustau vintage sherry cask and bottled in 2021, putting it at the older end of many Chichibu releases. Only 651 bottles produced.

    1965 Gordon & Macphail Glen Grant Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND
    $1999. 00
    Bottle
    $23988.00 Dozen
    ABV: 40%

    Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product pictured.

    These super-old malts are still being bottled by G&M but they don't always make it to Australia. Private collections are a good alternative source. At this sort of age Glen Grant can remain stunningly fresh with little to no woody, drying notes, just silky tannins and a resinous character not unlike very old Armagnac. Bottled in 2004 at 40% Alc./Vol.

    Launceston Distillery Rum Cask Single Malt Australian Whisky (500ml)
    Tasmania, AUSTRALIA
    $149. 99
    Bottle
    $1799.88 Dozen
    ABV: 46%

    This Caribbean rum cask matured whisky started out in x-Bourbon casks before being finished in freshly emptied Caribbean Rum casks. Its beautiful dark golden colour preludes a bright, warming palate, sweet and zesty with the rum notes dominating over brown sugar, pear and citrus peel. An ideal summer dram! 46% Alc./Vol.

    1963 Gordon & Macphail Strathisla Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND
    $2499. 00
    Bottle
    $29988.00 Dozen
    ABV: 40%

    Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product pictured.

    One in a fairly long (and possibly ongoing) line of G&M Strathislas that have been released over the last few decades. It should be noted that we've not received any recent editions, which may indicate stocks are running low at Gordon & Macphail, or that they're reserving their remaining liquid for natural strength single cask expressions. This particular Strathisla was decanted from barrels in 2007, so the tasting notes below are indicative only, however we wouldn't expect dramatic variation between two compositions from the same vintage and bottler. 40% Alc./Vol.

    Other reviews... [1963/2005 bottling tasted] Colour; amber. Nose: it’s a rather different story. This one starts more on bananas flambéed, coconuts (Malibu) and a beautiful oakiness. Also quite some game, ham, mint sauce (yeah we tried this one in the UK). Gets more similar to the 40yo after a moment but maybe a tad more complex. We have the same kinds of wild mushroom. Mouth: more classic, maybe a little woodier. Dried bananas, crystallised apricots. Loses a little steam with time but never gets weak. Finish: quite long, much spicier than before, getting very peppery. In short, another great old Strathisla, somewhat in the style of an old cognac. Too bad the middle was slightly on the slow side. 89 points - whiskyfun.com

    Skrewball Peanut Butter Flavoured Whisky Liqueur (750ml)
    UNITED STATES
    $59. 99
    Bottle
    $719.88 Dozen
    ABV: 35%

    Peanut butter whiskey? Why the hell not?!  Peanut butter was a totally new and fascinating flavour for co-creator, Steve Yeng after immigrating as a refugee from Cambodia. He went on to develop a best-selling peanut butter whiskey cocktail at his bar and restaurant - a place as known for its foodie-friendly fare as it was for being a haven for local misfits and black sheep. He teamed up with Brittany, his wife who just so happened to be a lawyer & chemist, to develop a standalone spirit that tasted great on its own and played well in a cocktail. The result is a harmonious blend of seemingly disparate flavours: A little salty, a little sweet, a little savory, always smooth and unlike anything you’ve tasted before. A celebration of the unexpected, wild, and wonderful in all of us, give it a shot or sip it neat, pour it on ice, or mix it up in a cocktail (like a peanut butter Old Fashioned). Contains peanuts. 35% Alc./Vol.

    1974 Delord Bas Armagnac (700ml)
    Armagnac, FRANCE
    $270. 00
    Bottle
    $3240.00 Dozen
    ABV: 40%

    In so far as wood-aged spirits go, Delord's Armagnacs are almost unbeatable on a price/quality ratio. Bottled in 2024, this rustic presentation of 1974 distillate promises notes of vanilla, marzipan and dried fruits with cinnamon, toasted bread and drying oak in support. An amazing buy when compared to cognac or single malt whisky of the same ilk, it will make an impressive gift for a 1974 birthday or anniversary of any kind. 40% Alc./Vol.

    • 92
    • 90
    Catoctin Creek Rabble Rouser Bottled in Bond Rye Whiskey (750ml)
    Virginia, UNITED STATES
    $199. 99
    Bottle
    $2399.88 Dozen
    ABV: 50%

    Located in small town Purcellville, Virginia, Catoctin Creek has an outturn dominated by rye, a nod to the State's earliest whiskey-making traditions. To celebrate their tenth anniversary, they released Rabble Rouser. It employs the same 100% rye mash bill recipe as Catoctin's Roundstone Rye, but is distilled at a lower proof for a fuller flavour. According to the proprietors, it allows more rustic notes to emerge from the pot stills. This is also bottled in bond, which means it's distilled in one season after four years of aging, their oldest offering to date. A sweet, soft and oily rye that barely shows its alcohol, this whiskey also defies its relative youth with a delicious melting pot of chocolate, candied fruits, caramel and toasty oak, balanced out by sprinklings of baking spice and muddled mint. If you enjoy Sazerac's entry level offering, you should love this. 50% Alc./Vol.

    Other reviews... The nose kicks off with rye grain and grape jelly, setting the stage for a palate that’s both fruity and spiced. Cinnamon babka intermingles with red berries, and while it’s light on its feet, there’s a certain richness here that keeps you coming back for more. More tempered spice on the finish, which stays fresh thanks to ripe berry sweetness and vanilla bean. 90 points - whiskyadvocate.com

    "Cocoa powder dusted chocolate truffles lead on the nose, along with a strong component of rye spice, and spearmint. A rich, chewy palate showcases dark chocolate pretzels and salted caramel, with dry oak and baking spices. The finish is full and meandering, with cedar wood, menthol, chocolate, and spice. A craft distillery comes of age in your glass." 96 points - distiller.com

    ...On the nose, that homespun quality comes through as honey-covered rye toast, sweet but also a little savory, with subtler aromas of gingerbread and black cherry lingering in the background. On the palate, it’s light but velvety with a peppery heat that, while noticeable, doesn’t overwhelm the litany of  other flavors. Raw honey, red licorice, cinnamon, chewy caramel, and maple syrup complement the heavier wood notes, which begin a little sharp but mellow into a long and earthy finish full of tobacco and clove. - drinkhacker.com

    Michel Couvreur Vin Jaune 9 Year Old Single Malt French Whisky (500ml)
    Burgundy, FRANCE
    $199. 99
    Bottle
    $2399.88 Dozen
    ABV: 48%

    One year older than the previous edition, once again, the Michel Couvreur team have worked their peculiar brand of magic on a Scottish malt, this one distilled on the 1st of February 2015 and matured for over nine years in Jura vin Juane casks (a white wine produced from Savagnin in the Jura region of Eastern France, tasting similar to fino Sherry). Barrels were sourced from Stéphane Tissot and delivered to Couvreur's Burgundy cellars without rinsing, partly accounting for the remarkable wine pick up in this malt. 2500 wax-sealed bottles are on offer globally at 48% Alc./Vol.

    • 85
    • Nick's Import
    Bowmore 9 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Islay, SCOTLAND
    $79. 99
    Bottle
    $959.88 Dozen
    ABV: 40%

    Other reviews... The latest addition to Bowmore's core range is presented at the unconventional age of 9 years. Matured predominantly in oloroso sherry casks, with some bourbon cask-aged spirit thrown into the mix. The result is a whisky featuring drinking chocolate, black pepper, and soft peat on the nose. Sherry and sweet peat notes merge nicely on the palate, with dates, plums, and light caramel. Smoky brine in the medium-length finish. 85 points - whiskyadvocate.com

    ...Rather bizarrely, this bottle has been reimported from Spain. The colour is rather orange, even and not very bright, which always suggests that a lot of caramel has  been added. Colour: gold/orangey. Nose: well, this is typical Bowmore, very coastal and briny, we're nosing a large plate of smoked oysters sprinkled with a little teppanyaki sauce. Or is that teriyaki? I always confuse those names, the sweeter one… A little cranberry juice too, even raspberry jelly. Where does that come from. Still a very nice nose, though…Mouth: not that light at 40% vol., very salty, with just these notes of caramel that would get in the way. Indeed, that caramel that you're not supposed to feel in Scotch whiskies… But that would also impart notes of salted butter fudge and that, my friend, just always works. This baby would then become a tad more unlikely, with some slightly rubbery nuttiness, possibly from some 'cheaper' sherry casks. Still good. Finish: medium and even saltier. Black olives with crumbles of fudge and some kind of grassy liquorice. No 'lavender', naturally. Only the aftertaste is a tad flabby and strangely cardboardy. Comments: forgot to mention pasta de sardinhas, a very Portuguese delicacy. And very salty Bowmore. 84 points - whiskyfun.com

    • Hot Item
    2007 Edradour Ballechin Straight from the Cask 11 Year Old Oloroso Cask #18 Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (500ml)
    Highlands, SCOTLAND
    $179. 99
    Bottle
    $2159.88 Dozen
    ABV: 61%

    Filled in February 2007, cask #18 previously contained Oloroso Sherry. The slightly larger outturn delivered 995 bottles at 61% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

    “Ballechin” is the heavily peated version of Edradour and comes matured in a wide variety of wood types. The name originates from a fellow Perthshire farm distillery, which sadly closed its doors in 1927. Alfred Barnard, who catalogued all the distilleries in the UK in the 1880’s, made reference to having tasted a peated dram there. The new-age Ballechin is a whisky born out of experimentation but has attained a quasi-cult status in a relatively short time. When Edradour was bought in 2002, Andrew Symington called on the services of Iain Henderson, the former director of Laphroaig to create a second, very peaty malt. Available since 2006 and employing barley peated at a whopping 50ppm - a rate comparable to the smokiest malts of Islay - "Ballechin" was initially sold as a yearly vintage in limited runs of 6000 bottles. There’s now a broader variety available, including private and exclusive bottlings, however the cask strength editions are the most sought after. They remain small-scale single cask releases available in Australia sporadically throughout the year.

    • Hot Item
    2004 Edradour Ballechin Straight from the Cask 13 Year Old Port Cask #215 Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (500ml)
    Highlands, SCOTLAND
    $179. 99
    Bottle
    $2159.88 Dozen
    ABV: 54.2%

    Distilled in 2004, Cask 215 previously is a second x-Port cask from the recent outturns. Described as raw, earthy and even a bit meaty, expect thick sweet peat, seaweed, dry wood, ash, tar, smoldering fire, salt and cranberry sweetness. 408 bottles at 54.2% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

    “Ballechin” is the heavily peated version of Edradour and comes matured in a wide variety of wood types. The name originates from a fellow Perthshire farm distillery, which sadly closed its doors in 1927. Alfred Barnard, who catalogued all the distilleries in the UK in the 1880’s, made reference to having tasted a peated dram there. The new-age Ballechin is a whisky born out of experimentation but has attained a quasi-cult status in a relatively short time. When Edradour was bought in 2002, Andrew Symington called on the services of Iain Henderson, the former director of Laphroaig to create a second, very peaty malt. Available since 2006 and employing barley peated at a whopping 50ppm - a rate comparable to the smokiest malts of Islay - "Ballechin" was initially sold as a yearly vintage in limited runs of 6000 bottles. There’s now a broader variety available, including private and exclusive bottlings, however the cask strength editions are the most sought after. They remain small-scale single cask releases available in Australia sporadically throughout the year.

    Manzairaku Kaga Sparkling Umeshu (500ml)
    JAPAN
    $24. 99
    Bottle
    $299.88 Dozen
    ABV: 7%

    Served on all first-class flights of ANA (All Nippon Airways), Manzairaku Kaga's mild aroma and intense umami taste have won it several awards. It's a lightly carbonated Umeshu with a low 7% alcohol, ideal as an aperitif or even during a meal. Although generally referred to as Plum Wine, the Ume fruit is closer to an apricot than what we know of as plums and possesses a substantially higher acidity which renders the ripe fruit (though edible) mostly unpalatable. Benisashi Ume is used here, a variety that grows exclusively in Kanazawa City (Ishikawa Prefecture) and in the neighbouring Fukui Prefecture. Enjoy chilled.

    • Nick's Import
    Zuidam Oude Genever 5 Year Old Single Barrel Genever (1000ml)
    NETHERLANDS
    $109. 99
    Bottle
    $1319.88 Dozen
    ABV: 38%

    A modern take on traditional Genever, produced from a mash of equal parts malted barley, rye and corn. After a week of fermentation, the mash is distilled three times in a pot still. Part of it is then distilled a fourth time with botanicals including juniper, licorice and aniseed, the whole finally matured for 5 years in 200 litre American oak casks. The end result is bottled as a single barrel release - a concept typically used in the Scotch and American whisky industry, primarily sold in the Netherlands and Germany. 38% Alc./Vol.

    Other reviews... Very dominant wood aromas, which is to be expected from new oak casks. Vanilla, fudge and wood shavings. There's a whisper of aniseed here as well, while the palate leaves a little more room for the spirit to shine. It has a creamy mouthfeel, and there are some pine needles, as well as coriander. Worth a try if you're into aged grain spirits. 88 points - distiller.com

    • Hot Item
    2004 Edradour Ballechin Straight from the Cask 13 Year Old Port Cask #205 Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (500ml)
    Highlands, SCOTLAND
    $179. 99
    Bottle
    $2159.88 Dozen
    ABV: 54.2%

    Distilled in April 2004, Cask# 215 was used to mature Port before being filled. The resulting whisky mingles port "fruits", smoked bacon flavours, sweet berries, gun smoke, chocolate, pecans and hints of nutmeg. From an outturn of 408 bottles at 54.2% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

    “Ballechin” is the heavily peated version of Edradour and comes matured in a wide variety of wood types. The name originates from a fellow Perthshire farm distillery, which sadly closed its doors in 1927. Alfred Barnard, who catalogued all the distilleries in the UK in the 1880’s, made reference to having tasted a peated dram there. The new-age Ballechin is a whisky born out of experimentation but has attained a quasi-cult status in a relatively short time. When Edradour was bought in 2002, Andrew Symington called on the services of Iain Henderson, the former director of Laphroaig to create a second, very peaty malt. Available since 2006 and employing barley peated at a whopping 50ppm - a rate comparable to the smokiest malts of Islay - "Ballechin" was initially sold as a yearly vintage in limited runs of 6000 bottles. There’s now a broader variety available, including private and exclusive bottlings, however the cask strength editions are the most sought after. They remain small-scale single cask releases available in Australia sporadically throughout the year.

    • 92
    Westward Single Barrel Sour Dough Single Malt American Whiskey (700ml)
    Oregon, UNITED STATES
    $159. 99
    Bottle
    $1919.88 Dozen
    ABV: 45%

    Other reviews... This collaboration between Westward and chef and baker Ken Forkish uses the baker’s sourdough yeast in place of Westward’s usual pale ale yeast. The nose opens softly with bready aromas, sweet vanilla shortbread, and the faintest hint of spearmint. The palate is rich with toffee sweetness, toasted grains, and sweet herbs like thyme and mint. The finish has good length and the vanilla returns, mingling with toast oak, and mocha. 92 points - whiskyadvocate.com

    • Nick's Import
    Longrow 21 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - 2023 bottling
    Campbeltown, SCOTLAND
    $1399. 00
    Bottle
    $16788.00 Dozen
    ABV: 46%

    Named after another lost distillery of Campbeltown (which once operated right next door to Springbank and whose warehouse now houses their bottling hall). Longrow was first produced in 1973 to provide a peaty, oily and robust component to a blend being launched at the time. More heavily peated than Springbank and double distilled, it has been a staple in the production calendar since the 1990s. This is the annual 2023 edition of the oldest whisky in the Longrow core range, matured in a combination of 60% Sherry casks, 30% bourbon casks and 10% Chardonnay casks.

    Notes from the producers... Nose: Delicate smoke, salt, caramel, vanilla. Sweet, light cream, dried fruits. Taste: Maritime, traces of ash and smoke. Dried fruits, plums, raisins, dark chocolate. Citrus fruits in the background. Finish: Long with peat, seaweed and spices.

    Remnant Whisky Co. The Elusive Batch 3 Single Malt Australian Whisky (700ml)
    Tasmania, AUSTRALIA
    $250. 00
    Bottle
    $3000.00 Dozen
    ABV: 48%

    With just ninety bottles produced, batch three of The Elusive lives up to its name. Given the situation over at Nant before its collapse, records are hard to find but it's believed that the contributing liquids are all over ten years old. Composed mainly of Port cask matured whiskies giving it a rich sweetness, a few sherry casks are also in the mix adding complexity and spice. It continues Remnants run of bottling some of the best tasting and oldest Tasmanian single malt whiskies that almost didn't exist. 48% Alc./Vol.

    • Nick's Import
    Springbank 25 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - 2018 Bottling
    Campbeltown, SCOTLAND
    $4499. 00
    Bottle
    $53988.00 Dozen
    ABV: 46%

    The 25 years olds are genuine limited editions, typically released in batches of around 1500 bottles annually. For 2018, the whisky was reportedly aged in x Bourbon casks before being married in refill Port casks. Bottled at 46% with zero chill filtration.

    Notes from the producers... Nose: Sweet and delicate on the nose, with notes of raspberry coulis. A mustiness develops reminiscent of dunnage warehouses and bung cloth. Palate: Initially smooth and syrupy on the palate, opening up to notes of sultanas, bananas and Demerara sugar crystals. Finish: The coastal influence presents itself in a saltiness in the finish, along with hints of barley water and grassy notes.

    • Nick's Import
    Springbank 25 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - 2019 Bottling
    Campbeltown, SCOTLAND
    $4499. 00
    Bottle
    $53988.00 Dozen
    ABV: 46%

    Keen eyes will notice these Springbanks now come with a year of release taped around the stopper, so you no longer need to get out your magnifying glass to read the bottling codes. The 2019 edition was aged in 60% ex-sherry casks and 40% ex-rum casks. The result is fruity and complex malt combining subtle rum input with the rich, sweet raisiny notes of the sherry. 46% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

    • Limit One per customer
    Glenfarclas 105 16 Year Old Special Edition Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND
    $299. 00
    Bottle
    $3588.00 Dozen
    ABV: 60%

    In 1968, Chairman George S Grant (4th generation) selected and bottled a cask at natural strength for family and friends as a Christmas gift. The liquid was 105 British proof which is equivalent to 60% alcohol by volume. The high strength whisky was so popular that George continued to bottle Glenfarclas at 105 proof making it one of the first official releases of cask strength Scotch whisky in the world. So the Glenfarclas 105 was born! In 2023, the new management sought to up the ante with a proper age statement at this potent ABV with a very limited bottling of 16-year-old curated by Distillery Manager, Callum Fraser and Managing Director, Douglas Belford. Embodying the full bodied Glenfarclas style, it's reported that this is limited to around 5000 bottles globally.

    Notes from the producers... Colour: Rich copper. Nose: Instant notes of soft butterscotch, vanilla essence, and exquisite bold spices. Taste: Deeply complex flavours with stewed berry fruits, melted butter toffee combined with freshly baked almond biscuits. Finish: A velvet finish with lingering notes of subtle sherry and tantalising dark chocolate that leaves you wanting more.

    2006 Single Malts of Scotland Orkney 16 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Orkney Islands, SCOTLAND
    $250. 00
    Bottle
    $3000.00 Dozen
    ABV: 59.2%

    A 2022 release from Elixir Distillers, sourced from a famous Orkney distillery which can't be disclosed. Everyone knows these bottlings are from Highland Park (the distillery is even pictured on the label), but brand protection, premiumisation, heritage, 'quality control' etc, and other reasons only marketing departments can explain mean that it can't be labeled as such. Alternatively, as Angus from whiskyfun points out, the secrecy "may be an admission by the owners that the independents are doing a better job of bottling their whisky than they are." This edition is one in a series of HP's from SMOS, which have a history of high quality, apparently drawn from a Bourbon barrel. The outturn was 253 bottles at 59.2% Alc./Vol. Non chill-filtered.

    • 93
    Bruichladdich 18 Year Old Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Islay, SCOTLAND
    $330. 00
    Bottle
    $3960.00 Dozen
    ABV: 50%

    Bruichladdich are known for the producing the most heavily peated Scotch you can find, but its core whisky, the Classic Laddie, is actually unpeated. Now, more than two decades after it reopened, the distillery is releasing its first 18 year-old as part of a high-end "Redefined" lineup with a classic bourbon matured malt. 50% Alc./Vol.

    Other reviews... A whiff of wood smoke or char on the nose, creating an overlay to more classic notes of stone fruit, mango, red berries, apples, and vanilla. Still lots of fruited liveliness beneath the initial smoke, which develops more toward cigar box and cigar ash. The palate offers honeyed sweetness, crème brûlée, coconut cream, tropical fruits, red berries, and pepper spice. Smooth and mellow on the finish, but the flavors don’t linger long. 93 points - whiskyadvocate.com

    This is the new one with the funny box and the hefty price (190€). Well, at least it's a conversation starter, which is already something. They mention terroir on the label, but I'm not sure all the barley comes from Islay; if it doesn't, that's a very liberal use of the term 'terroir' that they're employing. Anyway, marketers around the world are trying to invent new meanings for this word right now. In summary, they all claim that "terroir is what we do at home." Yes, of course... Colour: gold. Nose: it's quite deep but not ultra-expressive, a bit earthy and chalky, malty, more on a bread dough side, with hints of carbon powder, then more honey. It undoubtedly needs water. With water: beeswax comes out, fruit wines (the eternal peaches and melons), fresh raisin rolls... Mouth (neat): now this is very good, it starts with ripe fruits around peaches and oranges, with an immediate liquorice side. Also that fruit salad side that we so love in Bruichladdich. There's also a bit of wine but nothing too serious. With water: it's well-structured, fruity, with some citrus pastries. It seems younger than it is. Finish: medium length. Melons, guavas, sweet pepper, and always a few drops of indeterminate wine and a bit of wood/tea. Comments: it's not a very maritime Laddie, and the eighteen years don't really feel, but the quality is undoubtedly there. Be careful when you open the odd box, hold the bottle from the bottom (I almost got caught). 86 points - whiskyfun.com

    2007 The Whisky Trail Teaninich 13 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Highlands, SCOTLAND
    $169. 99
    Bottle
    $2039.88 Dozen
    ABV: 58.1%

    A new independent label from Elixir Distillers, 'The Whisky Trail' focuses on lesser known distilleries and unique expressions from some favourites, occasionally straying into unfamiliar but exciting territory. This example from Teaninich was distilled in 2007 and is reportedly expressive of the soft fruity style that the distillery is known for, augmented by maturation in a refill sherry butt - think orchard fruits and citrus in a creamy vanilla setting. The outturn was 655 bottles at 58.1% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

    2009 Single Malts of Scotland Lowland 13 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Lowlands, SCOTLAND
    $199. 99
    Bottle
    $2399.88 Dozen
    ABV: 56.7%

    It's uncommon to see Lowlanders bottled by independents. While the provenance isn't stated, get out your magnifying glass and you'll see the distillery is depicted on the label. In fact, this is the first ever independent Glenkinchie we've ever received! One taster describes it as "Lemons with black pepper, cardamom, alcohol perfectly integrated... simply pours out an abundance of spices." 232 bottles make up this release, drawn from a single hogshead at 56.7% Alc./Vol. Non chill-filtered.

    Single Malts of Scotland Director's Special Laphroaig 27 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Islay, SCOTLAND
    $1450. 00
    Bottle
    $17400.00 Dozen
    ABV: 51.2%

    A venerable Laphroaig joins The Single Malts of Scotland collection as one of its Director's Special selections. The whisky spent 27 years maturing in a single bourbon cask, yielding a total of 210 cask-strength bottles. 51.2% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

    Other reviews... Colour: gold. Nose: softer, rounder, more civilised, with overripe apples, liquorice, drops of absinthe, sage, rain-soaked fabrics (that famous old tweed jacket), mead, and quite a bit of ham and bacon... In fact, it's rather unusual, one might have thought it came from another distillery from the south. I mean, the south of Islay. With water: and here come the island's damp lands, along with notes of almond milk and pistachios. Mouth (neat): excellent, more tense, very much on lemon and seawater. It gains in precision what it loses (a little) in complexity. With water: it loves water. Lemon marzipan, ashes, manzanilla (I saw it was a barrel, but I love manzanilla). Finish: only of medium length but with very nice freshness. Magnums, please. Comments: it needs a bit of time. The notes of roasted and salted almonds and the sweetness of the peat are magnificent. 91 points - whiskyfun.com

    2005 Single Malts of Scotland Croftengea 18 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Highlands, SCOTLAND
    $299. 00
    Bottle
    $3588.00 Dozen
    ABV: 58.1%

    At the time of writing, this is the oldest Croftengea we've ever stocked - also one with a very small outturn. Just 171 bottles were drawn from a single hogshead. If you don't already know, this is the smokey variant produced by Loch Lomond - often almondy, doughy, salty, tarry, sweet and smoky - not really a peat monster, but the spirit is invariably delicious. Some have gone so far as to say that if Croftengea gained a bit more body, it would crush all Islays, fair and square. 58.1% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

    • 91
    • Hot Item
    2014 Kilchoman Single Cask #14/1007 Australian Exclusive Sauternes Cask Finish Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Islay, SCOTLAND
    $199. 99
    Bottle
    $2399.88 Dozen
    ABV: 56.3%

    The Australian importer's single cask selection was aged in fresh Bourbon wood for just over six and a half years, then spent a further eighteen months finishing in an x-Sauternes Hogshead (sweet white wine from Bordeaux). While Kilchoman have previously released bottlings that were fully matured in Sauternes casks, this nevertheless ranks as an extended secondary maturation, compared to 5-6 months that many might consider the 'norm'. Consequently, if you're used to the style of core releases like Machir Bay or Sanaig, this offers a different Kilchoman experience. On the nose, the usually effusive maritime character is offset by notes of bush honey, dried apricots and jaffas with just a little iodine/menthol lift contributing freshness. Flavour wise, it's quite an attack - mouthfilling, textural and oily with a malty mid-palate followed by a tang of tangerine peel and a spike of heat. The Sauternes cask almost gets the better of the peat, leaving you with residual notes of sweet tobacco, chimney soot, menthol rub and dark chocolate. An after dinner treat. 56.3% Alc./Vol. 50ppm. Non chill filtered.

    Notes from the importers... Nose: Driven by notes of vanilla and rich apricot with an elegant underlying peat smoke. Palate: Opening rich honey-sweetness makes way for an intense influence of almond followed by a classic Kilchoman peat smoke combined with toasted oak. Finish: Dried fruit, lemon zest and rich spice balanced with a long-lasting malty sweetness.

    2011 Benromach Contrasts Double Matured Bordeaux Wine Cask Finish Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND
    $149. 99
    Bottle
    $1799.88 Dozen
    ABV: 46%

    A Benromach initially matured in first-fill bourbon casks, followed by five years in Bordeaux red wine casks. This results in delicate honey and floral aromas, forest fruits and toasted oak flavours with soft peat smoke on the finish. 46% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

    Other reviews... If they must. This one baby spent its last 5 years in wood in 'Bordeaux wine casks', so it's double maturation instead of finish, although they would write both on the label. I suppose it was red Bordeaux but they wouldn't tell. Many people believe Bx is red, but you can have them in all colours. Sauternes is Bordeaux too. Colour: gold. Nose: all right, it is not about red berries, bell pepper and stuff. We're leaning towards fresh cakes, brioche, cut grass, and also a bit of cooked ham. These ham notes are quite unusual, especially to this extent. Mouth: yes, not bad at all! A bit of strawberry jam this time, as well as green pepper, bay leaves, small salty and smoky touches, bitter oranges, and then a slightly unexpected fino-like side. In short, we're not on raspberry and blackcurrant liqueur, thankfully. Finish: quite long, indeed pleasant and ultimately rather coastal. But Bordeaux is located by the ocean. Comments: nice, just perhaps not something to replace the... classics. 83 points - whiskyfun.com

    Black Tot Master Blender's Reserve Cask Strength Rum (700ml) - 2023 Limited Edition
    $299. 00
    Bottle
    $3588.00 Dozen
    ABV: 54.5%

    For the fourth evolution of the Master Blender's Reserve, Oliver Chilton has looked to create a blend that is closer to the original Navy rum with a heavier mouth feel and rich notes of wood smoke, espresso and cacao. As always, he has put his own spin on the assemblage, this year including a rum from Grenada, distilled in 1993, to add depth and accentuate a rich orange oil notes from the Perpetual Reserve. As always, the blend begins with rum drawn from the previous year's Master Blender’s Reserve - this works in a similar way to a Solera, whereby one-third of a blend is held back for another year and blended again. In 2023, casks were selected from Trinidad, Barbados, Jamaica, Guyana and Grenada (see below for a comprehensive breakdown). Notably, a higher proportion from Guyana component was included, the thick liquorice and muscovado in this rum helps recreate the unique flavour profiles they exhibited over half a century ago.

 These five blends were then brought together and married with the Perpetual Reserve, as well as some of the original Navy Rum from 1970, keeping the liquid history alive. Chilton comments, "With a larger focus on older rums from Guyana and the addition of 30-year-old rum from Grenada, a real sense of maturity and status has developed. It is such a privilege to be able to keep back stock from each blend to mature on and use as the heart of the next iteration of Master Blender’s Reserve, reimagining a blending technique used for so many decades by the rum blenders of the Navy.54.5% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

    Notes from the producers... NOSE
: Cooked blood orange studded with cloves blends with notes of ruby port and cinnamon
. PALATE
Initially flavours of liquorice sticks, toffee and cherry drops create a rich and full palate with orange marmalade cutting through.
 FINISH
...Rum and raisin toffee and chocolate notes linger in the finish with hints at cinnamon and nutmeg. The full specifications for the blend are as follows:

    Guyana: 31.5%

    • 1.7% 21 Y.O. (1 Tropical, 20 Continental)Demerara Distillers Wooden Pot

    • 3.3% 20 Y.O. (1 Tropical, 19 Continental)Demerara Distillers Wooden Pot

    • 4.2% 19. Y.O. (Continental)Demerara Distillers Pot

    • 4.9% 19 Y.O. (2 Tropical, 17 Continental)Demerara Distillers Column

    • 7.7% 8 Y.O. (5 Tropical, 3 Continental)Demerara Distillers Pot/Column

    • 9.7% 31 Y.O. (Continental)Demerara Distillers Column

     Barbados: 18.3%

    • 2.0% 27 Y.O. (3 Tropical, 24 Continental)
      West Indies Rum Distillery Pot/Column

    • 2.5% Barbados Master Blender's Reserve 2022 BlendPot/Column

    • 4.6% 16 Y.O. (14 Tropical, 2 Continental)Foursquare Pot/Column

    • 9.2% 8 Y.O. (5 Tropical, 3 Continental)Foursquare Pot/Column

    Jamaica: 9%

    • 3.5% Jamaica Master Blender's Reserve 2022 Blend
      Pot Still

    • 5.5% 6 Y.O. (3 Tropical, 3 Continental)Worthy Park Pot

    Trinidad: 19%

    • 2.7% Trinidad Master Blender's Reserve 2022 Blend
      Column

    • 4.3% 15 Y.O. (8 Tropical, 7 Continental)Ten Cane Column

    • 4.4% 16 Y.O. (7 Tropical, 9 Continental)Trinidad Distillers Column

    • 7.6% 14 Y.O. (10 Tropical, 4 Continental)Trinidad Distillers Column

    Grenada: 2.7%

    • 2.7% 28 Y.O. (15 Tropical, 13 Continental)
      Unknown Column

     Perpetual Blend: 19.5%

    • 19.0% Perpetual Blend - Master Blender's Reserve 2022
      Pot/Column

    • 0.5% Perpetual Blend - Original Royal Navy Rum Blend
      Pot/Column

    Elements of Islay Beach Bonfire Feis Ile 2023 Cask Strength Blended Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Islay, SCOTLAND
    $179. 99
    Bottle
    $2159.88 Dozen
    ABV: 54.5%

    In the creation of this limited edition, Elixir's Head Blender, Oliver Chilton was inspired by a beach bonfire on Islay – the colours, heady smoke and collision of the flames and sand. Employing malts from two characterful Islay distilleries, the resulting blend brings together whiskies matured in new oak, Bourbon, refill and sherry casks before bottling at natural strength. Non chill filtered.

    Other reviews... Lovely name for an Islay, we use that descriptor often. Colour: deep gold. Nose: you do feel the new oak, with some butterscotch and a bit of wood varnish, then indeed a beach bonfire burning both dried kelp and floated wood. Something medicinal too, saline (sea spray), and chalky. With water: damp tweed jacket (it's raining cats and dogs on Islay) and beach sand and pebbles at low tide. Mouth (neat): very salty arrival but citron liqueur and just limoncello are soon to join the dance. Some fudge and butterscotch again. Very good heat. With water: lemon juice, rhubarb, unripe kiwi, a bit of caramel, plus the expected walnut cake and wine from the sherry. Well, that ought to stem from the sherry. Finish: long, still pleasantly a little hot. Salted butter caramel, walnuts, a little salty and spicy peanut butter. Satay sauce (from the Taj Mahal restaurant in Bowmore, naturally). Comments: very fond of this multifaceted big boy too. 86 points - whiskyfun.com

    Port Askaig Cask Strength Small Batch #01-2023 Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Islay, SCOTLAND
    $169. 99
    Bottle
    $2039.88 Dozen
    ABV: 59.4%

    Other reviews... Are all NAS necessarily underwhiskies? That's up for debate... In any case, if the age isn't known here, we know it's ¼ toasted bourbon (rejuvenated barrels, I suppose) and ¾ American oak (just regular hogsheads, I suppose). Colour: pale white wine. Nose: honestly, it's very fine, with notes of nail polish, lime, ginger tonic, sourdough, wheat beer, plaster, porridge, and some rather elegant and discreet peat With water: very subtle hints of anise and hops. Mouth (neat): sweet yet tart, very citrusy, but with a slightly fatty woodiness. I think it's close to the official CI Cask Strength, but it's been a while since I've tasted the latter. Do they still make it? With water: nice, but there's always a somewhat thick and fatty aspect to the wood. Finish: long, oily in the mouth. In theory, it's the fresh wood that should do that. Comments: very good, I just have a clear preference for the rather marvellous 17-year-old. 85 points - whiskyfun.com

    ...This new Cask Strength Port Askaig, subtly labelled “Gateway to Islay” also moves from a core release to an annual (or at least periodical) limited, small batch release. Understandable in the face of challenges in late 2023... A big, strong, powerful, young Caol Ila, just how I like it. It doesn’t say on the label of course, but in this writer's opinion, we can be pretty certain it is from that distillery. It’s the old cliché of beachside barbecues, maritime air and thick, ashen smoke that we often find with Islay malts, but this is a particularly good example. The sweet, earthy, salty, meaty and smoky notes all intertwine beautifully. Very good indeed. - dramface.com

Show 48 More