Closed Distilleries

• 1963 Gordon & Macphail Connoisseurs Choice Glen Albyn 18 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (750ml)

  Highlands, SCOTLAND

  $1199. 00

  Bottle

  $14388.00 Dozen

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  ABV: 40%

  Sadly demolished in 1983, Glen Albyn’s output was mostly sold to blenders. There were a handful of official bottlings through the 1970s, and a 26-year-old was included in Diageo’s Rare Malts collection as recently as 2001. Even more scarce have been releases from the independents. This one from Gordon & Macphail was distilled in 1963 and imported by 'Whisky Imports Wollongong" in the 1980s. One only. 40% Alc./Vol.

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• 1980 Gordon & Macphail Rare Old Port Ellen 35 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Islay, SCOTLAND

  $1999. 00

  Bottle

  $23988.00 Dozen

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  ABV: 46%

  Another addition to G&M's Rare Old range is this Port Ellen, distilled in 1980 and bottled on the 13th November 2015 after maturation in a refill American oak hogshead. According to the bottlers, this promises flavours of "Ground white pepper, sweet red berries, dried mango and kiwi with a rich smoky / aniseed edge".

  Port Ellen is one of the three main villages on Islay and one of the two ferry terminals on the island. The distillery was expanded in the 1960s and closed in 1983. Its white painted buildings form a 'street' close to the seashore. Only peat which was dug in the district was used in the drying and the water was taken from two lochs in the nearby hills, the principal one used for distilling purposes being noted locally for its purity. Port Ellen whiskies remain highly collectable.

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• • 97

  • Nick's Import

  1989 House of MacDuff The Golden Cask Dumbarton 32 Year Old Cask Strength Single Grain Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Lowlands, SCOTLAND

  $499. 00

  Bottle

  $5988.00 Dozen

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  ABV: 47.1%

  The Grandfather of the House of MacDuff grain collection is this 1989 Dumbarton. The plant was known for making a slightly heavier style, partly due to its stills and possibly due to a preference for maize rather than wheat but closed in 2002. Looking like sherry is playing a key role from first glance, but it's actually Bourbon(!), that in spite of the superb oloroso-ish aromatics that range through Seville orange, hazelnuts, high cocoa chocolate, dried plums, fruit cake and more. It follows through with elegant flavours of dried peels, rancio, aged muscat, salted nuts and fruit cake before a sticky-date finale that rebounds with walnuts, cinnamon and fine astringency. Miles away from the Lowlands, this is more like a perfectly mature Armagnac or a premium sherried Speysider (if Macallan or Glendronach was on the label you would be paying several thousands for what is on offer here). A glorious wood-aged spirit and a bargain for both drinkers and speculators, jump on it before the market wakes up. 127 bottles at natural strength of 47.1% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered. Collectable.

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• 1997 Infrequent Flyers Dumbarton (Inverleven) Single Cask No.178 22 Year Old Cask Strength Single Grain Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Lowlands, SCOTLAND

  $240. 00

  Bottle

  $2880.00 Dozen

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  ABV: 55.3%

  Also known as 'Inverleven', Dumbarton was built in 1938, just south of the Highland border near Glasgow and for a while was the largest operation of its kind. Classified as a lowlander by Michael Jackson, production was predominantly set aside for the Ballantine's blends. When bottled by Indies, Dumbarton is typically the label for grain whisky. Inverleven the single malt, but it's not a rule. Nowadays stocks are "undeniably rare".

  The notable feature of the plant was its American-style stainless steel columns (rather than the traditional Coffey stills). A focus on maize, meant its spirit was rather heavy in character. In 1956 a third Lomond still was added with an attached rectification column designed to produce different styles of spirit. The distillery was decommissioned in 1985, though its column still was salvaged by Bruichladdich to produce its now famous 'Botanist gin'.

  Matured for over 22 years in virgin oak, this rich, oily, flavoursome whisky is reported to be reminiscent of an exceptionally old Bourbon - packed with sweet vanilla and bold, woody spice. 202 bottles were released at 55.3% ABV. Obvious collector appeal here with next to nothing allocated.

  Notes from the bottler... Colour - Burnished copper. Nose - Sweet and lightly floral, with strong aromas of almonds and marzipan. Taste - Nutty, woody and aldehydic. Walnut whip with grainy undertones. A chunky slice of Battenberg cake. Oak resin, Madagascan vanilla and honeycomb. Finish - Mid-length, creamy, sweet and oily.

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• • 93

  • Nick's Import

  2000 Lady of the Glen Dumbarton Single Cask #211903 22 Year Old Cask Strength Single Grain Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Lowlands, SCOTLAND

  $199. 00

  Bottle

  $2388.00 Dozen

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  ABV: 62.1%

  More and more Australian whisky drinkers are becoming familiar with Dumbarton as bottlings continue to trickle in via independents. A closed distillery that was famous for having an American-style stainless steel column still, this robust example is feisty on the nose and prickly to start leading into a powerful attack with flavours of Christmas cake and off-dry Guyanese rum followed by sweet leather before vanilla wafers and sticky date gain ground. The prickle and punch don't give up, but beneath that are some deeply satisfying notes referencing XO Caribbean rum or the oily, sweetly oaky qualities of well-aged Bourbon. An unusually full-bodied single grain, it's enhanced by a surprisingly high ABV. 182 bottles on offer. 62.1% Alc./Vol. Non-chill filtered.

  Notes from the bottlers... custard tart, brioche and dried apricot.

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• • 93

  • Nick's Import

  2000 Lady of the Glen Port Dundas Single Cask #305297 20 Year Old Cask Strength Single Grain Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Lowlands, SCOTLAND

  $160. 00

  Bottle

  $1920.00 Dozen

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  ABV: 55.4%

  Tasting note: Built at the highest point in Glasgow on the banks of the Forth & Clyde Canal, closed in 2010 then demolished a year later. Port Dundas starts life as a light and sweet distillate with long barrel ageing slowly adding body and depth. The pretty deep gold colour is followed by a bouquet in turns volatile, peppery then soft and medium sweet. 2-3 minutes settles the focus on vanilla wafer, stewed peaches and cream, cinnamon and gobstopper, resembling a blend of pot and column distilled rums. Taste-wise, this is Bourbonesque with a rush of vanilla sponge, dates and Monte Carlo tea biscuits, the oak adding fine astringency. Not overly sweet, so extra points for balance. Caramel fudge and vanilla linger with the spices. A very satisfying grain that's beginning to throw off its youth. 156 bottles. 55.4% Alc./Vol.Non chill filtered.

  Notes from the bottlers... Vanilla wafers & oak, hazelnut praline and Sweet baking spices.

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• • 93

  • Nick's Import

  1997 Lady of the Glen Caperdonich Single Cask #19130 22 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND

  $650. 00

  Bottle

  $7800.00 Dozen

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  ABV: 60.5%

  Tasting note: Originating in 1898, Caperdonich was closed in 2001 and demolished in 2011, its floral and creamy distillate forever lost, so no surprise that Hannah considers his Bourbon matured bottling to be the jewel in the crown of his latest outturn. Distilled on the 27th of August 1997, somehow, this relatively old Caper' has retained an extraordinarily high ABV as well as youthful vigour that reminds you of young Glen Grant or Linkwood. The orchard fruit and gobstopper aromas come through even more on the palate where poached apple and pear flavours arrive with fizzing spices. The intensity creeps up - as does the thickness of the feel. Viscous and creamy... Sponge cake and apple mint enter at the finish. Wow - so vibrant. This delivers an unexpected hit, in the best possible way. Destined for collector's shelves. 171 bottles. 60.5% Alc./Vol.

  Notes from Gregor Hannah... On the Nose: Rum raisin fudge, stewed apricot and a honey on toast character. On the Palate: Grilled pineapple and oranges dipped in chocolate. Honeycomb and salted butter. Finish: Clean and crisp with notes of creamy vanilla, allspice and walnut loaf.

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• • Nick's Import
  • Reduced

  Littlemill Private Cellar Edition 2015 Release 25 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Lowlands, SCOTLAND

  Reduced from $3,499.00

  $2999. 00

  Bottle

  $35988.00 Dozen

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  ABV: 50.4%

  NOTE: VERY MINOR SCRATCHES TO THE FRONT OF THE BOX AS PICTURED.

  A rare bottling of Littlemill released for their Private Cellar Edition series that takes packaging to new heights. The distillery (founded in 1772) was located a couple of miles from Auchentoshan and closed in 1992 to be subsequently dismantled.

  Initially matured in ten American and European oak casks before being finished in first-fill Oloroso Sherry casks, the bottle comes with a 50ml miniature of the whisky, as well as a tiny section of a stave from one of casks that it was matured in, preserved like a holy relic in a perspex block. 50.4% Alc./Vol. 1500 bottles on offer world wide.

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• 1974 Murray McDavid Mission Selection No.3 Dallas Dhu 29 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND

  $999. 00

  Bottle

  $11988.00 Dozen

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  ABV: 46%

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

  The Dallas Dhu distillery is, surprisingly, yet to be dismantled despite the fact that nothing has been produced there since 1983. There are rumours that it will be restarted - no doubt some canny investors will jump in to re-invigorate the mothballed facility any day now! Currently it's a museum run by the Historic Scotland Society. This rare release from independent bottlers, Murray McDavid is from an outturn of 498 bottles released at 46% Alc./Vol. Curiously, it bears the signature of Jim McEwan, today well known as one of Scotland's top Master Distillers, although it's not clear whether he distilled it or just picked the cask. Very rare and obviously, very collectable.

  Other reviews... We’ve had a very good 1979 by MMcD quite some years ago – a high quality that rather surprised me since it had met some St Joseph (but that was some white St Jo, which is undoubtedly better than any red in these context and purpose). Anyway, this one should be all natural… Oh and I’ve completely forgotten about any characteristics of Dallas Dhu I’m afraid, and yet I’m not that old! Colour: golden amber. Nose: oh I seem to remember, toasted nuts and some sootiness, no? Roasted pecans, a touch of propolis and other high-character waxes, some soot indeed, perhaps some rusty old tools (at the distiller, haha), herbal teas (and patchouli), some grass smoke, old clothes in an old wardrobe (in an old attic), those kinds of things. Some old LPs, magazines, books… We’re almost in an antique shop. Mouth: a style that disappeared in the late 1980s, very globally. There are old nuts, some cardboard, touches of Bovril, some kind of salty honey (sauces), bitter oranges, chlorophyll, black tea… And shall we use the U-word? That’s right, umami? Finish: medium, salty, meaty, with a little coffee and some sappy honeydew. The aftertaste is almost all on chicken bouillon, with sweeter sauce. Something Thai? Comments: saying that this is unusual would be an understatement. In truth, the nearest contemporary malt would be sherried Benromach, I would say. Something a little, say fusty indeed, but certainly not in a bad way. 87 points - whiskyfun.com

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• • Nick's Import
  • Reduced

  North of Scotland 50 Year Old Single Grain Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Lowlands, SCOTLAND

  Reduced from $2,499.00

  $1499. 00

  Bottle

  $17988.00 Dozen

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  ABV: 40.4%

  In whisky circles, it was thought that all the casks from North of Scotland were gone and spoken for. Yet, these very rare and very old bottlings are quietly being released on the Australian market. A now silent Lowland grain distillery that was also once also home to the Strathmore malt plant, North of Scotland was only active from 1957 to 1980. In its heyday it was considered one of the more flavoursome grain whiskies going around. Owner, George P. Christie made sure to include a higher than usual amount of congeners in the spirit cut. Its whiskies were found in many of today's internationally renowned brands like Chivas Regal, Ballantines and Teacher's to name but a few. The facility was sold for the last time in 1982 to Distillers Company Ltd. However, prior to that, it was producing large volumes of both grain and malt whisky. In 1957, George P Christie purchased Robert Knox’s Forth Brewery for £10,000 and quickly converted the building into a malt and grain operation. In 1958 North of Scotland started producing grain whisky from its three patent stills. Malt whisky was produced from copper stills on the same site under the name of 'Strathmore'. North of Scotland continued turning out grains until 1980, when Christie, then concerned with the over production of grain whisky, took the decision to close. The building is now used solely as a bonded warehouse by Diageo. As is typical for a grain, this edition was matured in ex-bourbon barrels before being bottled at 40.4%, apparently by a new generation of the Christie family. Collectable. Very limited stocks.

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• 1992 Part des Anges Closed Distilleries Littlemill 21 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Lowlands, SCOTLAND

  $799. 00

  Bottle

  $9588.00 Dozen

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  ABV: 55.4%

  Yet another independent bottler hits Australian shores! The Closed Distilleries collection from Part des Anges (a group of oenologists, Maîtres de caves, Maîtres de chais and drinks industry specialists) offer whiskies from bygone Scottish distilleries, showcasing malts recognised for their structure, their finesse, their complexity and their character. Each cask yields approximately 250 bottles.

  This release from the now demolished Littlemill (closed 1992 / dismantled 1996 and located a couple of miles from Auchentoshan) is a 21 Year Old, non-chill filtered edition. 269 bottles produced. 55.4% Alc./Vol.
  One only to sell.

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• 1988 Part des Anges Closed Distilleries Port Dundas Cask Strength 25 Year Old Single Grain Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Lowlands, SCOTLAND

  $499. 00

  Bottle

  $5988.00 Dozen

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  ABV: 56.7%

  Yet another independent bottler hits Australian shores! The Closed Distilleries collection from Part des Anges (a group of oenologists, Maîtres de caves, Maîtres de chais and drinks industry specialists) offer whiskies from bygone Scottish distilleries. Each specially selected cask yields approximately 250 bottles.

  This release from the Diageo owned grain Distillery, Port Dundas (closed 2010) is a 25 Year Old, non-chill filtered, cask strength edition. 296 bottles produced. 56.7% Alc./Vol. One only to sell.

  Based in Glasgow, the historic Port Dundas distillery closed after Diageo moved the majority of its grain whisky production to Cameronbridge. It traditionally contributed to blends, including Bell's, Black & White, Haig, J&B, Johnnie Walker, Vat 69 and White Horse. Expect to see more Port Dundas releases as Diageo has recently launched a stand-alone Port Dundas brand. “Although it closed its doors in 2010, there are select, rare remaining stocks of 12 and 18 year old Scotch whiskies that allow a glimpse into the glorious past of one of Scotland’s most respected and historic distilleries,” said a Diageo spokesman.

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• 1992 Part des Anges Closed Distilleries Glen Keith 21 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND

  $330. 00

  Bottle

  $3960.00 Dozen

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  ABV: 59.1%

  The Closed Distilleries collection from Part des Anges (a group of oenologists, Maîtres de caves, Maîtres de chais and drinks industry specialists) offer whiskies from bygone Scottish distilleries, showcasing malts recognised for their structure, their finesse, their complexity and their character. Each cask yields approximately 250 bottles.

  This release is from the once mothballed Glen Keith distillery (reopened in June 2013). Built by and owned by Chivas Brothers (part of the Pernod Ricard group since 2001), it was established in 1958 for experimental purposes, including triple distillation (which was abandoned in 1970). It was also the first distillery to use gas heating for its stills and the first to computerise production. It's situated within eyesight of Chivas's centre piece distillery, Strathisla. This 21 year old non-chill filtered edition was limited to just 164 bottles. 59.1% Alc./Vol.
  One only to sell.

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• • Discontinued

  1989 Pittyvaich 20 Year Old (Special Release 2009) Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND

  $599. 00

  Bottle

  $7188.00 Dozen

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  ABV: 57.5%

  Other reviews... Colour: straw. Nose: it’s the high alcohol that strikes first, with notes of coffee and then pretty much the same very grassy notes as in the old 1977. Also whiffs of damp earth and ‘wet wood’ plus just a little vanilla. More straight oak after a while, also toasted oak and ‘yellow’ flowers, nectar. With water: it’s the oak that stands out now, with also hints of beer and even more toasted ‘stuff’. Mouth (neat): we’re even closer to the old Cadenhead now but this is rather creamier and even fatter. Sweet oak, vanilla, café latte, apples, grass and white pepper. No bubblegum this time. Notes of ale. With water: same as the 1977, only with more tannins. Finish: ditto (more or less). Comments: same style of whiskies, austere and quite elegant. This one is a little more marked by the wood but it isn’t drying. 83 points - whiskyfun.com

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• 1989 Pittyvaich 28 Year Old (Special Release 2018) Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND

  $599. 00

  Bottle

  $7188.00 Dozen

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  ABV: 52.1%

  Note: Box has come from a private collection and as such may have some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. 

  Other reviews: The lost Dufftown distillery of Pittyvaich last appeared in the Special Releases as a 25 year old in 2015. Like that bottling, this was also aged in refill American oak hogsheads. Initially, it’s slightly savory on the nose, with salted caramel, walnuts, and spicy raisins. Oily on the palate, with pineapple, apple crumble, malt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Toffee, milk chocolate, and licorice in the peppery finish.
  90 points - whiskyadvocate.com, reviewed by: Gavin Smith

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• • 95

  1989 Pittyvaich 30 Year Old (Special Release 2020) Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND

  $660. 00

  Bottle

  $7920.00 Dozen

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  ABV: 50.8%

  Tasting note: [15ml sample] The only ghost distillery this year and reportedly, the only Pittyvaich ever released to have been finished in ex-bourbon casks, which impart a little extra sweetness. Arguably the most luxuriously scented of the collection - although coaxing is required. Seductive aromas of Toblerone bar, ripe peach, muted beeswax and vanilla follow in a silky, graceful delivery including toasted cereals, tea biscuits, pepper and nut chocolate. Medium long and fresh to finish. Great stuff! 50.8% Alc.Vol. Non chill filtered. 7056 bottles.

  Other reviews... The oily nose yields intense tropical fruits, vanilla, nougat, and pine. Rich peach notes on the full palate, with a light sprinkling of white pepper, and hazelnuts dipped in milk chocolate. Spicy in the medium-length finish. Matured in first-fill bourbon barrels. 91 points - whiskyadvocate.com

  ...Shall we find mutton suet? Lamb fat? Bone marrow? Paraffin? Sulphur candles? Castor oil?... Colour: light gold. Nose: we’re very close to the 1988, which makes sense, just a tad leafier and perhaps more austere. More oils (rapeseed, perhaps sesame, grapeseed) and with whiffs of concrete dust, scoria, then rather green bananas and avocado juice. Not a very common profile for sure, but there’s some elegance and self-restraint to this one. Old school again (yet I don’t think the distillery was very old). With water: lovely yeasty sourness, ale, broken branches, beets, perhaps even a little cabbage (but no sulphur!) Mouth (neat): this is very good, no quibbling at all this time, and certainly fruitier. Various bananas, probably guava, then apples of all sorts. Beyond that, the expected mineral and chalky combo, paraffin, some Sancerre-y flavours (chalk, fruit peel) and some grapefruit. With water: oh perfect, mint chiming in, together with fennel seeds, ouzo, cider, chlorophyll… Finish: medium, rounder and a little fruitier, citrusy, with a little ginger and perhaps palm heart. Not too sure about the palm hearts. Comments: vive la difference! That’s something I’ve learnt over the years, you could find stunners at strictly all Distilleries, it’s just that some issued more of them and you have to hunt some down. The thrill of the chase, sir. 90 points - whiskyfun.com

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• • 92

  1989 Pittyvaich 29 Year Old (Special Release 2019) Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND

  $499. 00

  Bottle

  $5988.00 Dozen

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  ABV: 51.4%

  Tasting note: A ‘ghost’ or closed distillery, operational for just 18 years before falling victim to industry consolidation in 1993. Double matured in Pedro Ximenez & Oloroso sherry seasoned bodega casks, this is uncommon malt and the only double-matured Pittyvaich ever released. Early on the nose, it's spritely and youthful before taking on a more mature aspect: Stewed orchard fruits, hints of shortbread and distant oak come through with a whiff of the coast. Nicely balanced, there's an interesting mix of dried grass and dried fig-like flavours, with sponge cake, gingery warmth and fruit-filled dark chocolates through the medium-long aftertaste. Unusual. 51.4% Alc./Vol. 4976 bottles.

  Distilled in 1989 and matured first in Pedro Ximénez, then in oloroso sherry-seasoned casks. Delicate and restrained on the nose, with apple, pear drops, ginger, and malt. Initially, sweet sherry, then dark berry fruits emerge on the supple palate, with oatmeal stout. More apples, and ginger, plus prunes and chili in the long, warming finish. An excellent release from an underrated closed distillery. (600 for the U.S.)
  93 points - whiskyadvocate.com, reviewed by: Gavin Smith (Winter 2019)

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• • 92

  1989 Pittyvaich 25 Year Old (Special Release 2015) Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND

  $499. 00

  Bottle

  $5988.00 Dozen

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  ABV: 49.9%

  An unusual release from a distillery that was open from 1974 to 1993. In fact, this whisky is older than the lifespan of the distillery. Built by Arthur Bell & Sons, Pittyvaich was one of the youngest Scottish distilleries in operation at the time. The name is derived from Pictish, and refers to a land holding or farmstead. The prefix is common, particularly in the Eastern counties which were the former home of the Picts.

  The distillery stood near the Dufftown Distillery in Dufftown. Originally built to provide malt whisky for blends, Pittyvaich finally released an official bottling in 1991 under the Flora & Fauna label. Diageo have followed up with this extended age special release. Matured in refill American oak hogsheads and ex-bourbon barrels. Distilled 1989 and bottled at natural strength, 6,000 bottles are available worldwide.

  Tasting note: Brilliant pale gold. Soft, floral, honeyed aromas suggest pear, hazelnut, beeswax, lanolin; Second pass finds grassy, ripe pear notes added to the mix. Medium bodied, surprisingly soft textured; light entry builds into a succulent fruit-tart profile. Purring spices. Tea biscuits. Orchard fruits repeat on the finish. Ends peppery, creamy, medium long. Uncomplicated, but impossible not to like this. 49.9% Alc./Vol.

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• 1978 Port Ellen 2nd Release 24 Year Old (Special Release 2002) Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Islay, SCOTLAND

  $4999. 00

  Bottle

  $59988.00 Dozen

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  ABV: 59.35%

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

  Released in 2002 with an outturn of 12,000 bottles, this was the second occasion on which Port Ellen made it into Diageo's annual series. Nowadays, rarely found in Australia. 59.35% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered. Collectable.

  Other reviews... Colour: pale gold. Nose: austere, stony, flinty and grassy. Cold ashes. A little difficult without water. With water: the tar comes out a little, a little paraffin, fusel oil, butter, smoked tea. Classic austerity. Mouth (neat): sweeter but still a little aggressive. Candied oranges, dried pears, sugared lemon juice… With water: nice farmy notes, dried apples and pears. Unusual notes of figs. Finish: long, rather sweet, peaty… Not the very best Annual Release I think bit still an excellent peaty Islayer. 90 points - whiskyfun.com

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• • 90

  1978 Port Ellen 8th Release 29 Year Old (Special Release 2008) Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Islay, SCOTLAND

  $4499. 00

  Bottle

  $53988.00 Dozen

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  ABV: 55.3%

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

  Other reviews...Something which only those of us of a certain vintage, can remember as being that unique, almost naked, celebration of Islay malt whiksy it once so beautifully and so gloriously was. 90.5 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2013

  ...Already the eighth release! My! Feeling old over here… Colour: pale gold. Nose: this one isn’t extremely expressive either at first sniffing but there’s still more peat and more maritime notes than in the 1982. It’s also a bit yoghurty, lemony, ‘walnutty’… With water: more walnuts, more apple peelings, whiffs of cold ashes and used matches. Just like in the 1982, more mint as well. Mouth (neat): powerful, very peaty but also kind of candied, maybe tasting a tad younger than it actually is. Dried pears, quince jelly, hints of marshmallows… Then quite some mint, verbena and liquorice. Gets better after a moment, it’s the attack that’s maybe a tad less impressive than in earlier batches. With water: gets grassier, maybe a tad bitter and even slightly tannic. Finish: long, grassy, on apple peelings. Quite some pepper as well. Comments: very good but maybe not the best official Port Ellen in our opinion, we feel it somewhat lacks the notes of fresh tarmac and the zing that were so typical. Or, gran horror, are the best PE’s gone for good? We may get the answer to this existential question in September 2009… 87 points (still!) - whiskyfun.com

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• • 96

  • Nick's Import

  Port Ellen 15th Release 32 Year Old (Special Release 2015) Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Islay, SCOTLAND

  $4499. 00

  Bottle

  $53988.00 Dozen

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  ABV: 53.9%

  This is the fifteenth Port Ellen to be released under Diageo. Matured in refill European oak butts, 2,964 individually numbered bottles are available. This is also the first 1983 vintage (the final year of production) in the series.

  Tasting notes: Deep polished copper. Impressive legs. Big sherry on the nose at first? Dates? Raisins? The peat is indiscernible, then comes a superb fruity burst: banana chips, dried fig followed by hints of fruit'n'nut chocolate and woolshed. Final pass drops the intensity and introduces hints of fruit cake and additional lanolin to the mix. Creamy entry. Thickens up with an intense, semi-sweet, oily, smokey, juicy fruit cake / lemon tart attack. Dries at the finish, rounding off with smokey dates and faint liquorice strap. Concludes super long, with hints of mint chocolate refreshing the aftertaste. Lingering ashy peat. More Sherry input than previous bottlings adds an extra twist. Superb. 53.9% Alc./Vol.

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• 1981 Port Ellen Single Cask 1301 Islay Festival Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Islay, SCOTLAND

  $8999. 00

  Bottle

  $107988.00 Dozen

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  ABV: 54.7%

  A very rare bottle of Port Ellen, distilled in 1981, bottled for the 2008 Islay Whisky & Music festival (Feis Ile) and originally only available via the festival where it sold out in a matter of hours.
  Considered in the whisky community "...a legendary bottling currently averaging a score of 92/100 from the Malt Maniacs." A once in a life time opportunity for most - we have one only to sell. 54.7% Alc./Vol.

  More about Port Ellen... Established on Islay's south coast in 1825 by A K Mackay and Co., Port Ellen was closed in the slump of 1983, but the whisky made in the 17 or so years between its re-opening and final closure has acquired a reputation as some of the finest to have been made on Islay in that time. Following two outstandingly successful Rare Malt bottlings in 1998 and 2000, Diageo has released an official bottling of Port Ellen every year since 2001, although it is presently unknown how many more of these bottlings will be forthcoming as stocks get lower. There have also been myriad independent bottlings, particularly from Douglas Laing and this one from Signatory. Prices for Port Ellen have increased steadily over the last decade as the reputation of the distillery grows and supplies dwindle.

  The whisky is a versatile malt, though with considerable differences of style evident between different bottlings. Some sherry-casked Port Ellen can be beautifully rich, spicy, sweet and leathery; bourbon and refill casks often show a more austere, peppery medium-weighted style. Common characteristics, though, are a high level of peatiness and, in the best examples, a phenomenal complexity which Islay fans adore. For these reasons Port Ellen has become one of the most sought-after of the lost distilleries by collectors, investors and aficionados.

  No tasting notes available.

  Delivery Information
• • 95

  1979 Port Ellen 37 Year Old (Special Release 2017) Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Islay, SCOTLAND

  $4499. 00

  Bottle

  $53988.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 51%

  Unanimous Praise. PE fans should have it on their shortlist.

  A whisky that always brings high expectations. There’s no denying these older stocks are holding their age quite effortlessly. Number 17 in the series is no exception. Praise for this edition has been unanimous, with several tasters noting its freshness. It's also typically complex with a fabulous range of aromas and flavours.

  Tasting note: Drawn from refill American oak hogsheads & refill American oak butts. Brassy gold. Developing smokiness with atypical scents of candle wax, wine-soaked pears and fresh herbal notes. Air contact adds brine, hints of citrus peel and finally gorgeous melon-like fruitiness. Quite beautiful. This follows through with a stunning flavour tapestry, so seamless it’s difficult to differentiate the oak, peat and fruity malt; Love the delicacy and poise. The finish lingers, while the aftertaste dries into powder soft tannins. No blockbuster, but probably one of the finest, most elegant Port Ellens tasted to date. 51% Alc./Vol. 2988 bottles

  Other reviews… This 1979 vintage is the 17th Special Releases Port Ellen. It has been aged in refill American oak hogsheads and butts. The nose offers fresh-mown grass, ripe pears, and damp tweed, before smoked fish and bonfire aromas emerge. The oily palate features spicy peat, barbecued meat, and peaches in syrup. Very long in the finish; smoky and earthy, with a hint of chili and mouth-drying tannins. 93 points - whiskyadvocate.com, Reviewed by: Gavin Smith (Winter 2017)

  ...Indeed, the 17th release, already! It’s from eight refill American oak hogsheads and butts, and well, I love it that they would keep using this superb and elegantly understated ‘Rare Malts’ bottle. Last year’s 1978 was rather fantastic, but perhaps a wee bit more ‘tired’ than earlier releases (WF 91). Colour: gold. Nose: okay, I can already tell you, after just one sniff, that this PE is the best amongst this year’s Special Releases, unless the Convalmore, well, let’s see... Fish oil, smoked salmon, sesame oil, garden peat, wild mushrooms, then rather new wellies (which is oh-so very PE in my book), oysters and their friends the whelks and clams, olives, and hessian/old clothes, old camphory embrocations... A pretty unbeatable nose, displaying superb elegance and depth. Smoky lace. With water: barbecued fish and some fresh rubber, lamp oil, smoked almonds, seawater, ink… Mouth (neat): no no no, this is not possible after last year’s rather shy proposition. This has oomph and zing, it’s extremely bright and kicking, and it displays these divine tropical fruits that can be found in very old Taliskers, Bowmores, or Laphroaigs (1950s and 1960s). Smoky and peppery passion fruits and mangos, you know. It’s also really medicinal, more medicinal that many a PE in my book. Fantastic. With water: swims extremely well, but I think we might have to call the anti-maltoporn brigade. Ever tried to blend grapefruit juice and olive oil? We could go on and on, but we’ll keep this short, as Angus has something to say… Finish: long, and, for once, perhaps the best part. Very old whiskies seldom shine out at this point, in my experience. Salted grapefruit and lemon juices, with some chalk and some shoe polish. That’s foolproof. Comments: let’s be honest, I had thought that Diageo’s annual PEs would become less and less bright, and more and more fragile. I’m extremely glad to be proven wrong. 93 points - Serge Valentin, www.whiskyfun.com

  Delivery Information
• • 96

  • Reduced

  1978 Port Ellen 14th Release 35 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Islay, SCOTLAND

  Reduced from $3,999.00

  $2999. 00

  Bottle

  $35988.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 56.5%

  Closed distillery / crazy discount. Selling for well over $4K overseas, it’s your chance at one of the all-time great Port Ellens.
  "Finally, a Port Ellen that is truly, classically mature. A killer." - Dave Broom, whiskyadvocate.com

  Established on Islay's south coast in 1825 by A K Mackay and Co, Port Ellen closed its doors for the last time in the slump of 1983, but the whisky made in the 17 or so years between its re-opening in 1967 and final closure has acquired a reputation as some of the finest to have been made on Islay in that time. Following two outstandingly successful Rare Malt bottlings in 1998 and 2000, Diageo has released an official bottling of Port Ellen every year since 2001, although it is presently unknown how many more of these bottlings will be forthcoming as stocks get lower. Always highly sought after, this edition is limited to just under 3000 bottles world wide.

  Tasting note: Deep gold, polished brass. Initially peppery and malty; second pass reveals a peat-driven aspect with a fine tuned balance between freshness and smoke; think dried citrus peel and tobacco plus hints of iodine. Later inhalations seem to deepen and richen with the accent towards fruit cake before vanilla malt comes to the fore and the peat retreats. Delicious, salivating, fruity-yet-dry delivery includes choc-fudge laced peat, hemp, salt and pepper followed by lanolin, salt and juicy fruitiness to finish. Outstanding balance and length. Concludes as it began, maintaining the malt, oak and smoke in a controlled tension. 56.5% Alc./Vol.

  Other reviews... Scarcity and the secondary market have driven prices up, so either buddy-up to a rich guy, or club together to try this. Greater levels of cask interaction have added an extra dimension to a whisky that is often skeletal. The smoke’s in the background, as salted cashew, peppermint, tansy, furniture polish, and smoked meats take center stage. The palate is slowly expanding and smoked, with some chocolate and wax. Finally, a Port Ellen that is truly, classically mature. A killer.
  93 points - www.maltadvocate.com, Reviewed by: Dave Broom (Winter 2014)

  Let’s try to forget about the heavy price tag, and focus on the juice! After all, should you test-drive a new Ferrari, you’ll focus on the engine and the chassis (and the brakes!) more than on its price, won’t you. But is this a Ferrari or is it a badged FIAT? Let’s see… (apologies, I’m known for my very crappy car analogies, but I just can’t help.) Colour: gold. Nose: its quite brutal! At this pace, they’ll still have ‘young’ PE by 2050, unless the stocks are almost depleted indeed (which they are since around 2000 anyway, ha!) After that initial burst of alcohol and creosote, many smaller elements are falling into place, one after the other. Turpentine, eucalyptus, tincture of iodine, seaweed, almond oil, pink grapefruits, tobacco smoke, chartreuse, coal, walnuts and apples… But rather less tar than expected. With water: some very nice notes of white wine (sour) and brine, humus, fir smoke, damp wool, garden bonfire… Mouth: triple bang! It’s huge, it’s massive, it’s sharp at the same time, and it’s almost… young. Quite some smoke, a little fish oil, grapefruits and lemons, smoked tea, liquorice, kippers, green tea. A lot of lemon zest, with something rather green, pungent, tannic… Grape pips? Cider apples? Not an easy baby for sure, but it’s not a peat monster. With water: the greenness is even more obvious. Liquorice wood, grass, green apples, kippers, maybe a wee touch of chlorine (nope, I’m using my usual Vittel), grapefruits, a little salt… And bags of apple peelings. Finish: long, rather on cider apples, smoked fish… The greenness remains. I have to add I’m finding little tar in the aftertaste, just a little – better late than never! Comments: we’re very close to last year’s release, as far as I can tell, this one being maybe just a notch rougher. On the other hand, it’s a very moderately tarry PE that’s probably less ‘immediate’ than earlier versions. Oh, and quality remains very high, of course… 91 points - Serge Valentin, whiskyfun.com

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• • Reduced

  1978 Port Ellen 16th Release 37 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - Special Release 2016

  Islay, SCOTLAND

  Reduced from $4,499.00

  $2999. 00

  Bottle

  $35988.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 55.2%

  For most, the two headline acts in Diageo's 2016 collection remain the Brora and Port Ellen - both closed distilleries, both commanding big dollars, with the latter being the oldest Port Ellen bottled to date. Drawn from refill European oak butts and American oak hogsheads filled in 1978 with a total outturn of 2940 bottles, it comes as no surprise that this was the stand out for many who tasted the collection in Europe late last year.

  Other reviews... It was a 1983 last year (WF 92), but we’re being offered a 1978 again this year. Ooh, the ultra-punchy Rare Malts 20 and 22, remember? Colour: refreshingly golden. Nose: some say Port Ellen is/was best at around 25, and that’s not totally impossible if you ask me. This is absolutely lovable, but it may be missing of that that, say impact that younger PEs had. Around luxury cardboard (?) and cough syrup, with a little plasticine, as well as a touch of, wait, could that be sage? Verbena? A little quiet perhaps, but water may make it furious, let’s see… With water: water works very well. Seawater, first rain, hessian, and well-brewed old Pu-erh tea. But it didn’t get any more furious, after all it’s become an old lady… Mouth (neat): oh! Unexpectedly sharp and millimetric, on smoked lemon juice. I should have taken the 22 Rare Malts for due comparison today, like I did yesterday with the Brora 1972. My bad, it’s too late… With water: rather smoked brine. A little camphor as well. Finish: long, and very peaty. It did not lose its smokiness! Comments: on par with the 1979, I’d say. Careful with water. It’s a bit like those old sports cars, you dream of them, and when you drive them, you’re a tiny wee tad disappointed. Just a tiny wee tad, I’d call that the ‘E-Type effect’. But no worries Jag people, we love you. So, a truly superb old PE, for sure, but the bodywork may have become a little more flabbergasting than the engine (and no it hasn’t got any brakes).
  91 points - whiskyfun.com

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• 1975 Rare Malts Selection Glen Albyn 26 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Highlands, SCOTLAND

  $999. 00

  Bottle

  $11988.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 54.8%

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

  This is only the second time a Glen Albyn has landed on our shelves. Sadly demolished in 1983, the distillery's output was mostly sold to blenders. There were a handful of official bottlings through the 1970s. This 26-year-old was included in Diageo’s Rare Malts collection. Even more scarce have been releases from independents. Distilled in 1975 and bottled in May 2002.  One only. 54.8% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered. Collectable.

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• 1979 Rare Malts Selection Coleburn 21 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND

  $999. 00

  Bottle

  $11988.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 59.4%

  Part of Diageo's Rare Malts range, this cask strength 1979 vintage is an opportunity to sample single malt from yet another now closed distillery.

  Reputedly a long time component of Johnnie Walker Red, Coleburn is off the radar for most malt drinkers - and for good reasons. Established in 1896, it was always intended to be a key producer for blends. Almost its entire output was matured in x-Bourbon barrels. The license to distill at Coleburn was cancelled in 1992 and most available casks have been bottled now. Official distillery releases pretty much don't exist. Independent releases are extremely scarce. Certainly don't expect any more - the distillation equipment has been dismantled and the buildings have been renovated. The current owners, Mark and Dale Winchester, have developed plans for a full conversion of the buildings into a hotel, spa and conference facility.

  The distillery name follows from other earlier buildings nearby. A map from around 1860 records a burn running down the hill from the northeast and into the Glen Burn beside what would later become the distillery site.
  59.4% Alc./Vol.

  No tasting notes available.

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• • 92

  • Limit One per customer

  1990 Rosebank 30 Year Old Release 1 Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Lowlands, SCOTLAND

  $2999. 00

  Bottle

  $35988.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 48.6%

  The Rosebank distillery on the banks of the Forth-Clyde canal has been mothballed since 1993. Considered the Queen of all Lowland malts by many specialists, for twenty six years it has only occasionally re-surfaced in the form of Diageo's famous 'Flora & Fauna' 12 year old (last selling for around $1000). That puts this first-edition thirty year old in perspective. And it's not a Diageo release. Ian Macleod Distillers acquired the Rosebank brand and the last remaining stocks in October 2017. They were also granted planning permission to revive the distillery on its original site in January 2019.

  Australia's allocation of just 100 bottles means this inaugural bottling will be in high demand. However it is the first in a series of annual limited editions, so there's more in the pipeline. Group Distillation Manager for Ian Macleod Distillers, Robbie Hughes comments: “The first global release of Rosebank 30-Year-Old is a truly iconic moment for the distillery. It has matured in 62% refill sherry butts and 38% refill bourbon hogsheads for decades, patiently waiting to be awoken, and delivers layers of incredible flavour that you won’t find in other whiskies.” In late 2019, construction officially began on the new venture in Falkirk in the Central Lowlands of Scotland. 48.6% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered. 4350 bottles are on offer globally.

  Other reviews... The first Rosebank on the path to the distillery reopening is buttery and golden with rich vanilla, notes of lemon-zested lemon meringue pie, honeycomb, polished oak, marzipan, and a pinch of wood spices. This is a classic Rosebank, a soft, intimate dram with sweet almonds, butterscotch, grapefruit peel, gooseberry bitterness, background spices, and a finish of pear and vanilla. Welcome back Rosebank, it’s been too long. (300 bottles for the U.S.)  92 points - whiskyadvocate.com, reviewed by: Jonny McCormick 2021

  ...It is rather fantastic that the new owners could gather enough old Rosebank to be able to release such a large batch of 30 yo. Colour: gold. Nose: it really is the 'Fascination' minus the Madeira. Which means that it may be a tad less complex, but on the other hand this pristine herbal citrusness is just amazingly fresh, and pure indeed. A little fennel, aniseed, rhubarb, cider apples, oranges, gooseberries and then just vine peaches. Oh and citrons (you know, cédrat, cédratine and stuff) and pure fresh-pressed cane juice. Mouth: just perfect, vertical, all on lemons and granny smith, then those vine peaches again. Rather oily mouthfeel. I wouldn't say it is very complex, but it is very perfect, almost abstract, moving very elegantly. Some mobile-whisky by Alexander Calder, perhaps. Finish: medium, ultra-clean, this is almost some kind of best limoncello in the world. Or there, a kind of Limoncello spritz (limoncello, cane syrup, Perrier and really a lot of champagne). Comments: probably one of the most spectacular uncomplicated distillates in Scotland, just the opposite of the other great Distillery in the Lowlands, the sorely missed St Magdalene. 90 points. - whiskyfun.com

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• Rosebank Flora & Fauna 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Lowlands, SCOTLAND

  $999. 00

  Bottle

  $11988.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 43%

  The Rosebank distillery is settled on the banks of the Forth-Clyde canal near Falkirk and has been mothballed since 1993.  Considered as the Queen of all Lowland malts by some specialists, Rosebank is still available as a cask strength release in the 'Rare Malts' collection and independent bottlers have put several versions on the market. We are fortunate to have obtained very limited stocks of this rare gem under the 'Flora & Fauna' label.
  This is a must for any serious whisky enthusiast or collector - it may be the last time Rosebank is available in Australia, at least at any half reasonable price.
  

  '...remains a cracking dram. Shame the distillery is being bulldozed. No, make that a disgrace'. - Dave Broom, www.whiskymag.com

  Other reviews... Nose: strands of honey and honeycomb entwine around a softly herbal, but enormously weighted maltiness... Taste: this has to be near perfection in regard to texture and not far off with the way the honey polished malt trips around the palate with an almost apologetic spiciness for accompaniment. Finish: long, more honeycomb with hints of liquorice and soft herbs...this is quite legendary stuff. 43% Alc./Vol.
   95 points - note sourced from Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2006

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• 1992 Rosebank 21 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Lowlands, SCOTLAND

  $1399. 00

  Bottle

  $16788.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 55.3%

  One bottle only to sell.

  The Rosebank distillery is settled on the banks of the Forth-Clyde canal near Falkirk and has been mothballed since 1993. Rosebank had the highest reputation of any Lowland malt, an area well known for their triple distilled expressions. The 1890's saw such high demand for the make that many customers had to be content with allocations smaller than ordered. Rosebank is still available as a cask strength release in the 'Rare Malts' collection along with several independent releases on the market.

   

  A showcase 21 year old bottling distilled in 1992 and bottled in 2014 has just come our way. The original outturn was limited to 4530 bottles world wide. A must for any serious whisky enthusiast or collector. 55.3% Alc./Vol.

  Other reviews......can any lowland be compared to a fully blossomed Rosebank? This is whisky to both savour and worship for this is nectar in a Rose.
  94 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2014

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• • Nick's Import
  • Reduced

  2006 Signatory Single Grain Collection Port Dundas 14 Year Old Single Grain Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Lowlands, SCOTLAND

  Reduced from $99.99

  $79. 99

  Bottle

  $959.88 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 43%

  One year up on a previous shipment, this young but very, very affordable bottling is a second opportunity to experience Port Dundas on a limited budget. Although it closed its doors in 2010, indies continue to offer glimpses into the glorious past of one of Scotland’s most respected and historic grain distilleries. Normally Port Dundas is marketed at 20 years plus, making this Signatory release all the more unusual. It comes matured in Bourbon barrels and bottled at 43%.

  Delivery Information
• 1996 Signatory Vintage Port Dundas 22 Year Old Cask Strength Single Grain Scotch Whisky (700ml) - 58.1%

  Lowlands, SCOTLAND

  $199. 00

  Bottle

  $2388.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 58.1%

  Note: The Signatory range often arrive in to our store suffering from minor damage in transit. This is out of our control. When we dispatch to you we will re-pack to avoid further damage in transit but you should allow for possible dents and scratches to the metal tins.

  A very fair price on a cask strength, double-decade Port Dundas. We've sold plenty of these in the past (there's only one or two others on or shelves at the time of writing). The distillery needs no introduction, having closed its doors forever in 2010. Slowly but surely prices are increasing as awareness of its limited nature and generally good to excellent quality gains ground. Our experience with older Port Dundas is of a luxurious Irish-meets-Bourbon-meets-Rum style evocative of oak shavings, crème caramel and ripe stone fruits. Matured in a single hogshead, this one comes with a potent ABV of 58.1%. Non chill filtered. 236 bottles.

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• 1987 Signatory Vintage Caledonian 30 Year Old Cask Strength Single Grain Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Lowlands, SCOTLAND

  $350. 00

  Bottle

  $4200.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 49.7%

  Note: The Signatory range often arrive in to our store suffering from minor damage in transit. This is out of our control. When we dispatch to you we will re-pack to avoid further damage in transit but you should allow for possible dents and scratches to the metal tins.

  Ever since Diageo debuted 'The Cally' as part of their Special Releases in 2015, well-aged examples have been selling out at a steady rate. Clearly more and more single grain chasers are catching on to the quality and value this ghost distillery can offer. The situation won't last as stocks diminish and prices increase. Considering the official 40 year old will set you back around $1500 (if you can find one), Signatory's thirty year old cask strength release is a bargain. Bottled in 2017 from a single hogshead yielding 142 bottles. 49.7% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

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• 1982 Signatory Vintage Carsebridge 34 Year Old Cask Strength Single Grain Scotch Whisky (700ml) - 48.8%

  Lowlands, SCOTLAND

  $550. 00

  Bottle

  $6600.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 48.8%

  Note: The Signatory range often arrive in to our store suffering from minor damage in transit. This is out of our control. When we dispatch to you we will re-pack to avoid further damage in transit but you should allow for possible dents and scratches to the metal tins.

  It's been noted by at least one whisky writer that your best chances of securing new bottlings of old malts from closed distilleries are Caperdonich, Convalmore, Dallas Dhu, Imperial, Ladyburn, Littlemill and Pittyvaich. As independent releases become more erratic, the remainder have become the realm of whisky auctioneers. Several single grains including Carsebridge surely fall into the latter category. To our knowledge, this is only the fourth time an example has made it to Australian shores. Given that Diageo's 48 year old Special Release 2018 edition opened at well over AU$1000, this will be a no-brainer for collectors. Carsebridge closed in 1983 and was subsequently demolished. Although it was a large operation for its time, remaining stocks are now running low. This edition was bottled in 2017 from a single refill sherry hogshead yielding 168 bottles. 48.8% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

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• • Reduced

  1976 Signatory Vintage Rare Reserve Glencraig 40 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND

  Reduced from $2,699.00

  $1499. 00

  Bottle

  $17988.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 42.6%

  Not heard of Glencraig? You're not alone. Glencraig was a whisky made at Glenburgie through the 1960s and 1970s (abandoned in 1981). Produced using Lomond stills, the aim was to produce a light, fruity spirit for blends like Ballantines. Christened 'Glencraig', the newmake was distinct from Glenburgies, and gave owners, Hiram Walker another malt for its blends without having to invest in an entirely new distillery. According to Scotchwhisky.com, "Unfortunately the so-called rectifying plates in the neck of Lomond stills were notoriously hard to clean, and in 1981 they were abandoned at Glenburgie." No surprise to learn that Glencraig is now very rare liquid.

  This Signatory edition was distilled on 11th June 1976 before being aged for 40 years in a bourbon barrel. Bottled at 42.6% ABV, it must rank as one of the last surviving casks of Glencraig on the planet. 192 bottles are on offer. Says Jim Murray of a 31 year old he tasted from Cadenheads, "The feintiness shows why it was eventually done away with. But this is a malt with great distinction too."

  Meanwhile, Glenburgie continues to be operated by Chivas Brothers, its whisky still largely used for the Ballantine’s blends.
  Extremely limited stocks.

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• 1991 Signatory Vintage Cambus 29 Year Old Cask Strength Single Grain Scotch Whisky (700ml) - 56.9%

  Lowlands, SCOTLAND

  $280. 00

  Bottle

  $3360.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 56.9%

  Another great opportunity to add an investment-grade grain whisky to your cabinet. Consistently on collector's radars, Cambus continues to routinely sell out. A significant recent release was a $1K+ 40-year-old offered by Diageo in 2016. A roller coaster history that started in the early 19th century finally came to a close in 1993 as part of Diageo’s infrastructure reorganisation. In 2011, the distilling equipment was removed and Cambus was converted to a warehouse and cooperage, consolidating nearby Carsebridge and Dundashill in Glasgow. This expression was distilled in 1991 then filled into a refill Sherry butt to mature for nearly three decades. 56.9% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered. 388 bottles worldwide. Very limited stocks.

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• 1982 Signatory Vintage 30th Anniversary Port Ellen 35 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Islay, SCOTLAND

  $2799. 00

  Bottle

  $33588.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 55.1%

  For most, the two headline acts in Diageo's stable remain Brora and Port Ellen - both closed distilleries, both commanding big dollars, with a 37 year old being the oldest Port Ellen to date. Independent bottlers, 'Signatory' come close in this 35 year old grandfather malt from refill sherry butt #2040, and it's selling for a fraction of the price of Diageo's official bottling (read $4500+)

  Bottled June 2018 for the Signatory Vintage 30th Anniversary series. 567 bottles on offer worldwide. 55.1% Alc./Vol

  Other reviews... Paw! Colour: straw. Yes, only straw, greatest of news. Nose: there are three words in the name of the cask: refill, sherry, and butt. The one that’s important is ‘refill’, in my opinion. Indeed, there’s no embarrassing raisins in sight, no half-sulphur, no prunes on a binge, and no unnecessary spices. Rather a very subtle, almost whispering coastalness, with ideas of langoustines, kelp, crab, drops of petrol, and the most complex softer olive oil, the one that’s made out of those small pink olives, the name escapes me. Wonderful complexity here. With water: charcoal, beach bonfire, cigar smoke, lanoline, paraffin… It remains rather incredibly soft and elegant. Hope the palate won’t have gotten weak and flat (yeah right). Mouth (neat): well, given the soft nose, I had thought the palate would be easy and almost smooth indeed. I lose, game, set and match. In truth this is a wonderful example of a Port Ellen that became akin to some kind of peated and tarred limoncello. Add bits of seashells and olives, and there, you have it. Indeed, it’s not a matter of complexity, it’s a matter of cohesion and fullness. With water: please call the Anti-maltoporn Brigade, sofort! Once again, it’s not spectacular, it’s not very complex, it’s not even loud on the markers (tar and such), it’s just a splendid, perfectly chiseled whole. Port Ellen. Finish: and there, it gets more extravagant, more citrusy, almost youthful. Only there, in the aftertaste, we shall feel one or two raisins from the sherry. Comments: seriously, it’s incredible that it would have remained this vibrant, despite the thirty-five years in that old butt. But then again, it was refill…
  93 points - Serge Valentin, whiskyfun.com

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• 1974 Signatory Vintage Dallas Dhu Cask Strength 18 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND

  $899. 00

  Bottle

  $10788.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 60.8%

  Originally named "Dallasmore", the Dallas Dhu distillery was built in 1898 by Alexander Edward of the Sanquhar estate outside Forres. It featured a pagoda roof designed by Scottish architect Charles C. Doig. When ownership of the distillery changed to Wright & Greig Ltd. in 1899, it was renamed to "Dallas Dhu". Production began on May 29, 1899, and the first cask was filled on June 3.

  Economic pressure and an unreliable water supply forced Dallas Dhu to close in 1983, and its distilling license was withdrawn in 1992. The last barrel was filled on March 16, 1983, although the buildings were re-opened to the public in 1988 under Scotland's Historic Buildings and Monument Directorate. Historic Scotland has operated the property since its establishment in 1992.

  Dallas Dhu has been bottled several times by former owners, however these are hard to procure. This is sought after collector territory for those wanting to secure a colourful piece of Scotch whisky history.

  One bottle only to sell. Distilled 1974 and bottled 1993 with an out- turn of 250 bottles. This is all the more exceptional for being cask strength. 60.8% Alc./Vol. NB - Minor creasing to the outer carton. Bottle in excellent condition.

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• 1982 Signatory Vintage Carsebridge 34 Year Old Cask Strength Single Grain Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  SCOTLAND

  $499. 00

  Bottle

  $5988.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 49.9%

  Sourced from one of Scotland's long lost distilleries, Carsebridge closed in 1983 and was subsequently demolished. Distilled in 1982 and bottled by Signatory, this is the second only Carsebridge to hit our shelves. Drawn from a refill sherry butt (No.74603), just 169 bottles made it to market. With strong reviews for bottlings of similar pedigree, this should hit the spot for lovers of obscure grains. 49.9% Alc./Vol.
  Extremely limited stocks.

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• 1996 Single Malts of Scotland Imperial 24 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND

  $399. 00

  Bottle

  $4788.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 51.5%

  With one exception, Imperial has only ever been available via independent bottlings. Despite being established in 1897, by the 1970s (when single malts were just starting to become popular), the managers had dedicated the operation to filling blends. Ironically, when the single malt market came of age in the early 1990s, Imperial was closed! After changing owners several times, the distillery was finally demolished in 2013. Reports have it that remaining stocks are now genuinely low. No surprise that collector's are catching on.

  According to Serge Valentin at whiskyfun.com, "mid-90s batches of Imperial are shy but hugely impressive. They share quite a bit with the likes of Clynelish and Ben Nevis from similar vintages, which can’t be a bad thing." Adding to the allure is the fact that Imperial is gone for good. Single cask bottlings at high strength will go fast. Distilled in 1996, 163 bottles were available from cask #3421. 51.5% Alc./Vol.

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• • 96

  1974 The Cally 40 Year Old (Special Release 2015) Cask Strength Single Grain Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Edinburgh, SCOTLAND

  $1399. 00

  Bottle

  $16788.00 Dozen

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  ABV: 53.3%

  40 year old whisky. Closed distillery. An incredible opportunity to purchase one of the oldest and most expensive Grain Whiskies ever released.

  
  The Cally (as the locals called it) makes its debut as part of Diageo's Special Releases in 2015. This extraordinary 40 year old is also one of the oldest expressions ever offered from this dark horse distillery, otherwise known as "The Caledonian", based in Edinburgh and closed in 1988. Not surprisingly, bottlings of any kind are rare. This edition was distilled in 1974 (likely from majority corn) followed by maturation in refill American oak hogsheads. Bottled at natural strength, just over 5000 bottles are available worldwide.

  Tasting note: Bright brassy gold. Impressive lift with dense, sweet opening aromas reminiscent of rock lolly / dark chocolate / toffee apple. Aeration broadens the bouquet suggesting strawberry sponge cake / icing sugar. Five minutes shifts the emphasis to vanilla, honeycomb / crunchie bar. Gorgeous purity. Big vanilla / cinnamon / sponge cake delivery framed by vibrant spices; mildly oily to finish with salivating malt and cascading sugars. Luxurious grain. So much age yet never falls short on balance or freshness. 53.3% Alc./Vol.

  Other reviews... If your glass is half empty, you might overlook this because it is the most expensive single grain Scotch whisky released to date. If your glass is half full, you will relish sweet toffee popcorn, coconut, fresh fruits, linseed oil, and some spicy and nutty notes. Makes sense, as South African white maize was heavily used in the production in the early 1970s. It’s mouth filling, dark and brooding, with plenty of chocolate, oak tannins, char, and layered spice. Sumptuous. 90 points- www.maltadvocate.com, Reviewed by: Jonny McCormick (Spring 2016)

  Lovely half-pre-Castro-Cuban, half-Alfred-Barnard-era label. The whisky industry will soon call a guy named Gutenberg at the current rate ;-). Nah, Da Vinci’s too expensive. More seriously, we haven’t tried many Caledonians so far, let’s simply remember that the Haymarket distillery (Edinburgh) was closed in 1987. So, as far as grains are concerned, this is a historical bottling. Colour: gold. Nose: ha, now we’re talking! And we’re talking… Irish. Seriously, you’d think this is pure pot still whiskey, with overripe apples, butterscotch, and this very peculiar metallic side that just works in this context. And of course there’s plenty of vanilla and coconut. Fresh and vibrant, certainly not ’40 years’. I quite like this so far. With water: I like it even more. Some kind of softer bourbon, perhaps. No rye, though. Mouth (neat): very good, I think. It’s not malt whisky, obviously, but it’s got depth and structure, and all this tropical stuff (Irish indeed) just works. Mango chutney covered with buttered caramel and coconut liqueur, plus mandarin liqueur and perhaps Turkish delights. Goody good, and the oak never comes in the way. Meringue. With water: really very good. No oaky ventures, only stewed fruits and various pastries, including oriental ones. Finish: quite short, as expected, but clean, fruity, and praline-like. Comments: I haven’t checked the price, but if it’s fair(ish), it’s a good bottle to own to show your friends that grain whisky’s not always only oak-flavoured ethanol. I really like it very, very mucho. 89 points. - www.whiskyfun.com

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• 1983 Douglas Laing & Co. The Old Malt Cask 50° Port Ellen 25 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

  Islay, SCOTLAND

  $2499. 00

  Bottle

  $29988.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 50%

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

  Established on Islay's south coast in 1825 by A K Mackay and Co., Port Ellen was closed in the slump of 1983, but the whisky made in the 17 or so years between its re-opening and final closure has acquired a reputation as some of the finest to have been made on Islay in that time. Following two outstandingly successful Rare Malt bottlings in 1998 and 2000, Diageo has released an official bottling of Port Ellen every year since 2001, although it is presently unknown how many more of these bottlings will be forthcoming as stocks get lower. There have also been myriad independent bottlings, particularly from Douglas Laing and this one from Signatory. Prices for Port Ellen have increased steadily over the last decade as the reputation of the distillery grows and supplies dwindle.

  The whisky is a versatile malt, though with considerable differences of style evident between different bottlings. Some sherry-casked Port Ellen can be beautifully rich, spicy, sweet and leathery; bourbon and refill casks often show a more austere, peppery medium-weighted style. Common characteristics, though, are a high level of peatiness and, in the best examples, a phenomenal complexity which Islay fans adore. For these reasons Port Ellen has become one of the most sought-after of the lost distilleries by collectors, investors and aficionados.

  Distilled February 1983 and bottled in October 2008. Matured in a refill sherry butt no. 4687. 609 bottles produced. 50% Alc./Vol.

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• • Nick's Import
  • Reduced

  1974 William Grant & Sons Ladyburn 40 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - Batch 2

  Lowlands, SCOTLAND

  Reduced from $3,999.00

  $2699. 00

  Bottle

  $32388.00 Dozen

  Sold Out

  ABV: 41.9%

  William Grant & Sons are offering whisky lovers the opportunity to taste some of their most prized stocks. Now incredibly rare, the Ladyburn distillery was part of William Grant’s Girvan grain distilling complex in Ayrshire from 1966 to 1975 when it closed. Its four stills produced malt for the Grant’s blends and also freed up stock from Glenfiddich which at the time, was emerging as a high profile standalone brand.

  According to scotchwhisky.com, Ladyburn has only been bottled on two occasions by its owner. Independent bottlings are equally hard to find. Producing whisky for just ten years, the house style has been described as delicate with floral/lemon notes and a crisp feel. Now an investment grade oddity, do your research and you'll find Ladyburn's of similar provenance selling for considerably more in the UK. Comes beautifully presented in solid oak presentation box. 1250 bottles released world wide. 41.9% Alc./Vol.

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