1059 products

Collector's Corner

    Kilchoman Machir Bay Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - 2014 Release
    Islay, SCOTLAND
    $150. 00
    Bottle
    $1800.00 Dozen
    ABV: 46%
    Collector's Alert: This is one of the earlier releases in the Machir Bay series, bottled in 2014.

    Other reviews... I had found the 2013 version a little sweet, but let’s see… This is a vatting of ex-bourbon and ex-oloroso casks. Colour: white wine. Nose: there is a sucrosity indeed (opening a large bag of marshmallows) but on the other hand, the coastal peat – lime combination works very well. What’s quite impressive is the purity in this, even if that’s also what makes it a little simple. Mouth: sweet ashy peat. Brine, almonds, lemon squash, lemon drops, perhaps two sultanas (not more) and faint liqueury side indeed. Barley sugar. That ought to be the short sherry finishing. Finish: rather long, clean, with some lime and some lemon, and always this sweet roundness. Many ashes as well. Comments: it’s a little mezcaly, in fact. I think I like it better than the 2013.
    83 points - Serge Valentin, whiskyfun.com
    • 91
    2008 Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2021) Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Islay, SCOTLAND
    $220. 00
    Bottle
    $2640.00 Dozen
    ABV: 56.5%

    "...totally splendid. Whichever the price, which I don't know about at time of writing, it's B-F-Y-B whisky." - whiskyfun.com

    Other reviews... On the nose, this is pretty peaty, redolent of baked lemon, smoked fish, fragrant roasted spices, salt water-lashed boat decks, and scorched earth, with faint citrus and cream notes in the background. Spices and chile pepper combine with lemon curd on the palate, the citrus sweetness breaking through, with a late contribution of Oreo cookies. Adding water only makes this tempestuous dram even spicier. 91 points - whiskyadvocate.com, reviewed by: Jonny McCormick 2021

    ...Exclusively refill, a legendary age and a solid strength, I can't see what could go wrong. Maybe a stork making a low pass over WF's terrace and stealing my glass? Well, let me first get my old riffle and we shall then proceed… Colour: white wine. Nose: Lagavulin 12 CS always feels like home. Astounding mineral, tarry, slightly terpene-y arrival on the nose, then flints, peat, smoked turnips (why wouldn't one do that) and smoky grist. Very compact. With water: no one can beat a manzanilla-like profile. Please pass the langostinos! Mouth (neat): sends shivers down your spine, looks like they finally managed to smoke lemons. Then they added fresh almond paste and just sea water. Absolutely awesome. With water: all right, all right. Sublime saltiness, oysters, manzanilla indeed, flint smoke, drops of lime juice, a drop of Andalusian olive oil (obviously)… Have I written that I find this sublime? Finish: long, tight, greener, lemony, fresh. In the aftertaste, a feeling of having wolfed down a whole jar of pickled samphires. Comments: Lagavulin 12 CS may be like the iPhone, every year they raise the definition. The good news is that you don't need any cables to make it work. Seriously, this new one is totally splendid. Whichever the price, which I don't know about at time of writing, it's B-F-Y-B whisky. 92 points - whiskyfun.com

    • 94
    1994 Lagavulin 26 Year Old (Special Release 2021) Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Islay, SCOTLAND
    $3299. 00
    Bottle
    $39588.00 Dozen
    ABV: 44.2%

    "A simply wonderful tasting experience." - whiskyadvocate.com

    Other reviews... Matured in first fill PX/oloroso seasoned casks, the nose opens with fruitcake, dried mango, marmalade, ground ginger, and baking spices. As the brighter fruits dissipate, aromas of dried fig and burnt teacake emerge. A thick, oily mouthfeel with flavors of chocolate orange, then chocolate ganache, restrained spice, malt, bramble, sultana, and date, with an eternal sweetness infused with smoke. A simply wonderful tasting experience. (7,542 bottles) 94 points - whiskyadvocate.com, reviewed by: Jonny McCormick 2021

    ...From 1st fill ex-PX and oloroso-seasoned casks. Who cares, this is Lagavulin. I haven't got all other details at time of writing but this should be mid-1990s distillation - the next best piece of news would be peace in the Middle-East. Colour: gold. Nose: remember the old 12 cream label? Or that 15 yo ceramic for Italy? This is sublime, once again, despite, or maybe thanks to a few whiffs of barbecued bacon at first, and despite a slightly, say prognathic oak spiciness (ginger and so on). All the rest is first class, the resins, essential oils, pine needles, camphor, banana skins, marzipan, whelks and clams, wee whiffs of garlic brine, some spearmint, old yellow chartreuse… And that old Lagavulin (and Port Ellen) thing, new tyres. Mouth: watch it, they say 44.2 but it almost feels like 64.2% vol., not something that happens too often. We shall add water but in the meantime, it is very salty and coastal, with a feeling of smoked raisins indeed, and perhaps a wee chaos created by the encounter between the PX and the spirit. The most important word is 'perhaps' here. With just two drops of water: a little leather, salt, salted toffee… Finish: long, more on cough syrup, ginger and burnt raisins. Comments: absolutely excellent but I think the stunning 12 killed this one a little bit and that the PX may have helped. Could be that we shouldn't have tried them both within the same wee tasting session, after all. Aren't self-evident ideas often bad ideas? Nah it's still a glorious dram. 88 points - whiskyfun.com

    1996 Lagavulin Distillers Edition Double Matured Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Islay, SCOTLAND
    $499. 00
    Bottle
    $5988.00 Dozen
    ABV: 43%

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

    When Lagavulin decided to produce a secondary cask-finished version there were doubters who thought nothing could be a match for the pungent strength of whisky. Those sceptics were probably unfamiliar with Pedro-Ximenez. This distinctive 16 Year Old bottling has all the classic Lagavulin sea-spray notes matched by the sweet accents of sun-dried grapes derived from PX cask wood.

    Tasting note: [1998 vintage] Polished brass. Iodine, sea spray, kelp, lanolin and white pepper over sweeter scents of vanilla, cocoa and shortbread. Lighter bodied than the standard issue, but also more silky; mildly salty with peat infused raisin bread, honey, pepper and hints of liquorice bullets in the aftertaste. Superb balance. Ends kippery, dry, with the whisky almost taking back seat to the sherry. Like a mouthful of smoked-fruit'n'nut chocolate. Quite feminine by this distillery's standards, but one of the highlights of the DE range. Try it with aged cheeses. 43% Alc./Vol.

    • 96
    • Not gift boxed
    Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2018) Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Islay, SCOTLAND
    $350. 00
    Bottle
    $4200.00 Dozen
    ABV: 57.8%

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

    Note: No gift box supplied.

    A cask-strength Lagavulin from American oak refill casks has been bottled for the 'Special Release' series every year since 2002. These editions are created to showcase Lagavulin at its raw and natural best. Reports have the 2018 to be slightly sweeter than most past editions, while retaining all of the pungent maritime character you'd expect. Traditionally the value buy of the series, the Australian allocation for this release will be remembered as one of the smallest on record. Collector's will be pleased to see it re-surface at a reasonable price.

    Other reviews… Technically, from a distilling perspective, borderline perfection. From a maturation one, slightly weaker... Even so, we are talking Islay at its most truly classic.
    96 points - Jim Murrays Whisky Bible 2021

    ...Lagavulin 12 year old is represented in Diageo’s annual Special Releases lineup for the fifteenth consecutive year. This was matured in refill American oak barrels. Earthy, peppery peat are present on the nose, along with hazelnuts, seaweed, and lemon juice. It offers citrus fruit, bonfire smoke, pepper, chili, and antiseptic on the palate. The medium-length finish features smoked chilies. 57.8% Alc./Vol. 90 points whiskyadvocate.com, reviewed by: Gavin Smith (Winter 2018)

    • 96
    • Not gift boxed
    Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2015) Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Islay, SCOTLAND
    $399. 00
    Bottle
    $4788.00 Dozen
    ABV: 56.8%

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

    Note: No gift box supplied.

    This is the thirteenth 12 Year old to hit the market, differing from the ubiquitous 16 Year old having been completely matured in refill American oak casks and bottled at natural strength. Already sold out in the UK, given the quality / price ratio on offer here we expect this to be highly sought after.

    Tasting note: Bright pale straw gold. Brine and pepper over deep vanilla in the opening sniffs. Second pass turns more typically maritime adding fresh sea breeze over hints of lemon mousse, menthol and Fisherman's Friend cough lozenge. Later inspection ups the peat aspect with cigar box, kelp, liquorice root, woolshed and subtle iodine. Outstanding complexity. Semi sweet, creamy entry. Cocoa and rich barley form a backdrop for the intense salt'n'pepper / baked citrus attack. More vanilla on the finish. Aftertaste is tongue tingling, salty, mildly liquoricey and impressively long. The bargain of the 2015 collection. 56.8% Alc./Vol.

    Other reviews... 92 points - Serge Valentin, www.maltmaniacs.com

    • Not gift boxed
    1997 Lagavulin Distillers Edition Double Matured Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Islay, SCOTLAND
    $499. 00
    Bottle
    $5988.00 Dozen
    ABV: 43%

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

    Note: No gift box supplied.

    Reported to be one of the all time great Distiller's Editions from Lagavulin (but has there ever been a bad one?)
    One bottle only. This was on the market circa 2013.

    Other reviews... Colour: full gold. Nose: well, they haven’t lost the recipe. Perfect Lagavulinness with an added layer of herbal teas – and plenty of them. Lime blossom, verbena (huge, really), wild thyme, then rather tobacco, mint-flavoured green tea Moroccan-style, fennel... Then the coastal jamboree, seaweed, seashells… Then a little ham, as usual. What I don’t find, and that I used to find in earlier versions, is a certain rubberiness. So this one is rather a cleaner one. Mouth: I really hate it that a finishing would work so well. Tobacco, artisan chocolate, kippers, Corinthian raisins, chlorophyll, liquorice, dried figs… Even the body’s quite perfect, but I’m sure it would be even more perfect at Talisker strength. Another impeccable one. Finish: long and rather on a blend of tar liqueur with crème de menthe. The mint makes it clean and fresh, which works a treat. After Eights! Comments: this is so brilliantly done! And I hate PX… 90 points - Serge Valentin, whiskyfun.com

    • 86
    • Not gift boxed
    Lagavulin 12 Year Old (Special Release 2013) Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Islay, SCOTLAND
    $399. 00
    Bottle
    $4788.00 Dozen
    ABV: 55.1%

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

    Note: No gift box supplied.

    If the sheer ubiquity of the 16 Year old has rendered it less visible in a market grown accustomed to notice the novel and exciting, here is a reason to revisit Lagavulin. One in a sequence of 'vintage' bottlings, aged in refill American oak casks and reportedly bottled without filtration, revived as an annual limited edition to "...satisfy the cravings of those who never understood why Lagavulin moved to 16 years of age". The annual bottlings have never missed the mark with international reviewers and consumers alike and could arguably be considered this distillery's new benchmark. And now for a little bit more you can get a lot more: The 12 Year Old represents a departure from its more heavy handed, sherry-influenced sibling. This is long on style - even elegance - with that elusive delivery of restrained power and layered complexity that charms the pants off lovers of seaside malt. It navigates its own waters somewhere between the finest cask strength expressions from Ardbeg or Laphroaig.

    Opening sniffs detect sea shore and smoked fish with underlying vanilla and sweet malt. Aeration draws out a fruity edge with suggestions of citrus infused tea, unripe mandarin and quince paste. Third inspection finds the sooty peat emerging alongside notes of lanolin. A light entry develops into a concentrated, dryish mid palate; cocoa and vanilla are smothered in a blanket of sweet smoke and spice; finish is warm, tingly, salty, firm and prolonged. Turns distinctively bittersweet chocolate-like to fade salivating, dry and with late notes of orange cake, citrus peel and fruit’n’nut chocolate. The high ABV never compromises the balance. A few drops of water accentuates the bittersweet dark chocolate / wool-shed aromatics while softening the mouthfeel immeasurably and extending the mid palate stage. Smashing stuff. 55.1% Alc./Vol.

    Other reviews... Colour: white wine. Nose: oh this is lovely. There's some sweet and rounder vanilla and fudge at first nosing, coating yet another crystalline peat, some superb earth (Pu-ehr style), wet gravel, some antiseptic and touches of our beloved gentian spirit. Maybe not that complex at this point, but simply implacable and superbly 'obvious'. With water: ultra-clean tincture of iodine and barbecued marshmallows plus always some roots. Fresh ginseng? Love that. Mouth (neat): instant pleasure. Lagavulin's trademark sweetness (wrt the other big peaters), with notes of butter pears, then an avalanche of all things coastal and smoky (like, a beach bonfire), then some kind of ashy oils, and lastly, grapefruits. Grapefruits make the great peaters, methinks. Also a little dill - or gravlaks-not-from-Ikea. With water: the best part. Just obvious, huge yet sharp and wonderfully balanced, with that Lagavulinian extra-sweetness. Finish: very long, with the roots and the earth having the upper hand this time. Less sweetness, which is welcome in a finish in my opinion. Comments: I think the Lagavulin 12 never stops improving, year after year. In a way, I'm considering it's the best 'simple' malt whisky money can buy, because it is simple whisky. To put in your cellar as a gift to the next generations.  92 points - whiskyfun.com

    Lagavulin 8 Year Old 200th Anniversary Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Islay, SCOTLAND
    $149. 99
    Bottle
    $1799.88 Dozen
    ABV: 48%

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

    An unusual age statement is inspired by Alfred Barnard's visit to the distillery in 1887 which became part of his book, “The Whisky Distilleries of the United Kingdom”.

    According to Diageo Director of Whisky Outreach, Dr. Nick Morgan, “At the end of the tour, he was given a taste of the whisky…he tasted an eight-year-old Lagavulin, which, of course, remember at the time was actually quite old…whiskies were considered to be venerable once they got around six years old in the 19th Century,” Morgan said in an interview with www.whiskycast.com. “He declared that whisky to be exceptionally fine, so our mission with this bottling was to find an exceptionally fine eight-year-old liquid which we thought Barnard would quite like if he were to be back here tasting it today.”

    Tasting note: Very pale straw gold showing considerable legs. Powerful and complex aromas include cocoa, sea spray, white pepper, dilute Elastoplast and lanolin followed by hints of citrus zest. Several minutes air contact accents the latent malt as well as dark chocolate. Concentrated but also surprisingly soft; almost creamy with grassy malt and a juicy vanilla, kelp and peppermint finish that goes long into the aftertaste. A departure from the 16, but terrific young malt. 48% Alc./Vol.

    Other reviews... Nose: Pronounced maritime and smoke notes, with underlying fresh-cut brown bread. Citrus in the background (lemon zest?). Notes of red fruits develop with the addition of water. Fresh and lively. Palate: The body is quite light but clearly is distinctively Lagavulin with the signature taste of sweet, warm, tarry wood smoke and developing depth and complexity. More sweet notes emerge with water to tussle with the Lapsang Souchong black tea flavours. Hints of herbal tobacco and fresh mint. Finish: The smoke lingers engagingly with a final flourish of sweet minty tea perhaps served from a cedarwood chalice that had been dipped in the sea. If this is the start of Lagavulin 200 then 2016 will be a year to remember. 48% Alc./Vol.
    - Ian Buxton, www.whiskymag.com

    1991 Lagavulin Distillers Edition Double Matured Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Islay, SCOTLAND
    $499. 00
    Bottle
    $5988.00 Dozen
    ABV: 43%

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

    "Any serious whisky lover knows that the Lagavulin DE, whichever the vintages, is the best wine finished malt whisky that one can find on this little planet." - Serge Valentin, whiskyfun.com

    When Lagavulin decided to produce a secondary cask-finished version there were doubters who thought nothing could be a match for the pungent strength of whisky. Those sceptics were probably unfamiliar with Pedro-Ximenez. These early bottlings are now sought after. 43% Alc./Vol.

    Other reviews...  The Lagavulin DE has always been a very embarrassing whisky to me, especially the 1979 and other early versions (but not the 1984) because it’s exactly the kind of bottling I should not like: a wonderful malt whisky ‘quickly finished’ in unlikely so-called wine casks to offer… what? Range-widening? Alas, I always found these DEs to be wonderful whiskies. Sugar, how disappointing! Colour: gold/amber. Nose: totally superb! An amazing rubber boots/bitter oranges combo, evolving towards more coastal elements (dried kelp, brine), old leather, camphor, tobacco and orange marmalade, then beef stock, pu-erh tea and soot. Disappointingly brilliant ;-). Mouth: I think it’s not possible that this whisky hasn’t a higher ABV than just 43%. Starts extremely ashy and amazingly kippery and salty, with a lot of tobacco (chewed Habano), gentian spirit, dried ginger and salted liquorice. Develops on the same beautiful aromas and keeps bombarding us with the same ultra-huge ashy smokiness. Finish: it’s long (maybe not the longest, but still) and still very kippery, with some caramel coming through now. Caramelised kippers? Comments: the first time I tried this one it was blind and I went for 92 points, but that’s obviously much too high for a finished whisky. Let’s mark it down! 91 points - whiskyfun.com

    • 94
    Laphroaig 25 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - 2020 Release
    Islay, SCOTLAND
    $1199. 00
    Bottle
    $14388.00 Dozen
    ABV: 49.8%

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

    Other reviews...
    A cask strength whisky, but don't expect a rambunctious blisterer. Age has given this one a mellowed beauty. It offers a deep, rich, soft peat influence on a thick and creamy palate, with dried seaweed, seashells, salinity, brine, charcoal, and muted medicinal notes—all imbued with sweet oak, lime, chocolate-covered marshmallows, and light pepper. Cooked pears, chocolate, and vanilla cream complete the finish. The peat has settled in, and a marvelous, mature whisky rises. 94 points - whiskyadvocate.com

    Laphroaig 32 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Islay, SCOTLAND
    $2999. 00
    Bottle
    $35988.00 Dozen
    ABV: 46.6%

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

     

    Laphroaig's 200th anniversary celebrations have been leading up to this extraordinary grandfather release, with just 5,880 bottles made available worldwide. The whisky was exclusively drawn from first-fill Oloroso Sherry casks filled between 1980 and 1983, and reportedly, around 80% of the contents is actually 34-35 years of age.

     

    Other reviews... This whisky is the fourth in a series of special bottlings marking Laphroaig’s 200th anniversary in 2015, and is a limited-edition release. It was matured in ex-Oloroso Sherry casks, and the nose is smoky and sweet with notes of barbecue sauce, grilled meat, and hints of figs and brine that don’t overpower the nose, but give hints of a gentle strength. The taste is luscious and sweet at first, followed by intense peatiness and cinnamon spice with hints of heather, brine, and honey in the background. The finish is very smooth, but still forceful with good spices and peat smoke along with hints of honey, vanilla, and cocoa. It’s the whisky equivalent of an iron fist in a velvet glove. (June, 2015) Editor’s note: These tasting notes are based on a sample of the final pre-release batch at around 54% ABV. There may be subtle differences between this sample and the consumer release. 95 points - www.whiskycast.com

    • Limit One per customer
    • Nick's Import
    1991 Lombard Jewels of Scotland Springbank Single Malt Scotch Whisky (750ml)
    Campbeltown, SCOTLAND
    $999. 00
    Bottle
    $11988.00 Dozen
    ABV: 50%

    From quiet independents 'Lombard' comes this 13 year old Springa' bottled at 50%. Reportedly matured in sherry wood and bottled way back in 2004, a similar though younger expression from 2001 was summed up by whiskymag.com as "...lovely young Springbank with all the distillery's classic attributes." Lombard was originally based on the Isle of Man. Although blending was their chief concern, they began to acquire stocks of well-selected single malt in the 1960s, the legacy of which has provided some fascinating independent releases. Extremely limited stocks.

    Notes from the bottlers... Nose is subtle and complex. A creamy start and with citrus zest. Firm structure with plenty of flavour development. Mouth filling, powerful and complex with good length. Jump and bites.

    • Nick's Import
    • Limit One per customer
    1995 Longrow 10 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Campbeltown, SCOTLAND
    $499. 00
    Bottle
    $5988.00 Dozen
    ABV: 46%

    Collectors note: This product is very old and the gift boxes are not in perfect condition. Springbank's labels almost always arrive with minor wearing and markings, most often to the top of the front labels. This is unavoidable. If you are likely to be disappointed by minor label scuffing, we recommend you don't buy these whiskies.

    Longrow ten year old was officially launched in 1985, so this is delving deep into the archives. The label has been produced since the early 1970s with various age statements, strengths and maturations. The 1970s, late 1980s, 1990s and subsequent distillations are all quite different, which is why finding something like this is exciting for both drinkers and collectors. 46% Alc./Vol.

    Other reviews... Colour: white wine. Nose: oh, we do have these strange chemical notes that I find in many recent Longrows. Something like Alka-Seltzer, cheap cologne, sulphur, porridge with a spray of lemon juice... Add to that notes of new plastic… Now, it does get nicer after a moment, with nice whiffs of wet stones and cold ashes as well as flints, fresh butter… Funny how it improves in your glass, getting sharper and much more elegant after a good ten minutes. Quite some lime juice and hints of wet dog (say a collie ;-)) Mouth: not unbalanced at the attack, oily, cleaner than at first nosing, with some interesting notes of fresh herbs (chives, parsley, mint) as well as various sweets (lemon, orange, pineapple and lots of lavender and violets) and a little paraffin. Quite phenolic but not especially peaty in the Islayer sense. Finish: quite long, spicier now (curry and pepper) but also grassier and slightly bitter – nicely so. The whole is quite good, much better than the 1994 in any case. 84 points - whiskyfun.com

    • Nick's Import
    • Limit One per customer
    Longrow 21 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - 2020 bottling
    Campbeltown, SCOTLAND
    $1599. 00
    Bottle
    $19188.00 Dozen
    ABV: 46%

    Collectors note: Springbank's labels almost always arrive with minor wearing and markings, most often to the top of the front labels. This is unavoidable. If you are likely to be disappointed by minor label scuffing, we recommend you don't buy these whiskies. Slight bruising to gift box.

    Like the Local Barleys, the annual Longrow limited editions have garnered a cult following. Ever since 1973, a run of twice-distilled peated malt has been produced at Springbank (Springbank itself is two and a half times distilled). Named after an earlier distillery in Campbeltown, Longrow's creation was prompted by a whisky shortage. According to Serge Valentin, it shares parallels with Tobermory’s Ledaig and Clynelish’s Brora. All were created because Islay whisky was in short supply after severe droughts in the late 1960s, and because of the temporary closure of Caol Ila. Expect a peaty punch. 46% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

    • Limit One per customer
    Longrow 21 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - 2019 bottling
    Campbeltown, SCOTLAND
    $1799. 00
    Bottle
    $21588.00 Dozen
    ABV: 46%

    Collectors note: Springbank's labels almost always arrive with minor wearing and markings, most often to the top of the front labels. This is unavoidable. If you are likely to be disappointed by minor label scuffing, we recommend you don't buy these whiskies. There is some minor scuffing to the boxes.

    Probably distilled around 1998, this is reported to be a relatively small outturn of around 3500 bottles. You can expect the peat to be slightly subdued from the extra time in barrel. To our knowledge, it's one of the oldest Longrow's ever released. 46% Alc./Vol.

    The Macallan Edition Collection (Numbers 1 to 6) Single Malt Scotch Whisky (6 x 700ml)
    Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND
    $6999. 00
    Bottle
    $83988.00 Dozen

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

    First released in 2015 with Edition #1 (now selling for $4K+), Macallan's Edition series represents a stream of NAS bottlings, with each edition focusing on a different cask regime.

    1971 Murray McDavid Port Dundas 46 Year Old Cask Strength Single Grain Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Lowlands, SCOTLAND
    $1250. 00
    Bottle
    $15000.00 Dozen
    ABV: 47.7%

    Another auspicious moment for grain whisky: Not quite the oldest, but up there with some of the most venerable Port Dundas bottlings to have ever graced our shelves. Either young or well-aged, output from this long-closed legend can be superlative, ranking among the best grains on the planet. Independents Murray McDavid released this single refill bourbon barrel #14001 in 2018 at a natural strength of 47.7% Alc./Vol. A fraction of the 200 bottle outturn has just arrived in Australia. Given Diageo's official 52 year old commanded $1300 back in 2018, the price of admission remains reasonable. Expect notes of buttery toffee, fruit crumble, nuts and oak spice with a super long, satisfyingly sweet finish. Non chill filtered. Closed distillery / Collectable.

    1987 Murray McDavid Tamdhu 31 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND
    $899. 00
    Bottle
    $10788.00 Dozen
    ABV: 50.4%

    Apart from an official release 50 year old in 2017, very few Tamdhus have been marketed at any great age, so this indie edition is something of a novelty. Largely reserved for blending, the scarcity is also due to the distillery changing hands and being mothballed on multiple occasions - as recently as 2009. Edrington Group finally sold the distillery to Ian Mcleod Distillers and production resumed in 2012 with a new range of core expressions hitting the market. This bottling stems from before the distillery's 'modern period' during which there was (arguably) a bit less emphasis on sherry maturation. To enrich this charismatic Speysider, Murray McDavid have finished it in a small 110 litre x-bourbon cask from Koval Distillery in Chicago, intensifying the flavours of fruit salad, oak spice and orange while creaming up the mouthfeel. The outturn from cask 600006 equates to 124 bottles at natural strength of 50.4% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

    • 90
    • Reduced
    Port Askaig 45 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Islay, SCOTLAND
    Reduced from $3,999.00
    $2999. 00
    Bottle
    $35988.00 Dozen
    ABV: 40.8%

    Distilled in 1968, this is the high point in the Port Askaig range, part of an outturn of just 51 bottles from a marriage of five sherry butts bottled at a frail cask strength of 40.8%. According to the creators, it's in an Islay style almost completely lost today: Fruit driven, with next to no smoke and with an abundance of tropical fruits such as mangoes and papayas... Rumour has it that the source is Islay’s northernmost distillery (so it's starting to sound a lot like Bunnahabhain at its finest). Regardless, a very, very rare whisky with a venerable age statement that remains reasonably priced in relation to many Highland equivalents. One only available.

    Other reviews... Even in my scarily long career, Ican probably count the number of peated malts that made it to this kind of age and then into a commercial bottling on one hand. Certainly by the end it is showing every year that has passed, but for an unexpected period, the malt hangs together... sometimes surprisingly deliciously. 90.5 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2022

    ...Well, there was a 45 yo at the very same strength back in 2014, not too sure whether this is the same juice or not. Maybe it is. Colour: full gold. Nose: right, this is one of those magnificent old Bunnahabhains! How many of them have we tried straight from the casks back then, in the company of dear John MacLellan? All roasted nuts covered with eucalyptus essence and Vicks Vaporub at first, then rich plums, light limoncello, and certainly some passion fruits. Soft and complex, with also more and more fir honeydew. Impeccably fresh. Mouth: you feel the age a little more (mentholated molecules from the wood, possibly terpens, turpentine and stuff), but the freshness remains there, with some orange-flavoured praline, tangerine liqueur, heather honey, and assorted dried fruits although it would never quite get raisiny. Finish: unexpectedly long, with the same orange-y fruitiness and touches of cardamom and cinnamon. Crystalised angelica and more yellow chartreuse in the aftertaste, and rather less oak than in the ‘bottling of 2014’. Which, I agree, is a little strange. Comments: it is, indeed, a little chartreuse-y. If it is the same juice as that of 2014, it may have improved a little bit, as if it could breathe a little further. 91 points - whiskyfun.com

    Rosebank 31 Year Old Release 2 Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Lowlands, SCOTLAND
    $2999. 00
    Bottle
    $35988.00 Dozen
    ABV: 48.1%

    Lowland whisky distillery, Rosebank has been shuttered since 1993, but that hasn’t stopped it from releasing more whisky. The new 2022 bottling is a 31 year old made of stocks gathered from casks just before the distillery closed down. “This is the first Rosebank release during my tenure as Distillery Manager and I’m under no illusions as to the importance of this launch,” said Malcolm Rennie. “The spirit was distilled before the distillery closed its doors and has matured in casks ever since, waiting to be awoken. It fills me with great pride to know that the 31 Year Old will be the last ‘old Rosebank’ release before the distillery is reopened to the public,” Rennie said. “The revival of this sleeping giant is a huge moment for the whisky community, but most importantly for the people of Falkirk who have patiently awaited its return for three decades.”

    The distillery is constructing three stills made according to the blueprints of the originals, before the distillery closed in the early nineties after being determined commercially unviable. Obviously, the new-make will take a long time to reach the dizzy heights of what you can get right now. Not many will be lucky enough to secure a bottle though - just 4000 are available worldwide with Australia's allocation restricted to around 100 units. 48.1% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

    Notes from the producers... Nose: Bright and zesty with hints of lime and lemongrass. Taste: Light, vibrant profile. Mint and chamomile are met with more robust notes of leather and banana bread. Finish: Long herbal notes, sweet peaches and a hint of oak.

    Considered the Queen of all Lowland malts by many specialists, for twenty six years Rosebank 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 thirty one 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.

    • Nick's Import
    • Limit One per customer
    1992 Sansibar Koi Series Springbank 28 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - Bottled For Japanwhiskys
    Campbeltown, SCOTLAND
    $1999. 00
    Bottle
    $23988.00 Dozen
    ABV: 42.8%

    "...really magnificent and goes to prove, once more, that time is whisky's main ingredient." - whiskyfun.com

    A big age statement, glowing review and a very limited outturn of just 204 bottles make for one of the more compelling independent Springbanks in recent memory. Matured in a single Bourbon cask for 28 years and bottled exclusively for Germany's Japanwhisky.com, this slightly peaty and classically coastal expression has reached full maturity. British artist, Ronnie Cruwys designed the label featuring red koi fish on an orange background - an eye-catcher for any whiskey collection or bar shelf. 42.8% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

    Other reviews... Lovely label with some koi fish, which are almost as expensive as Springbank. Colour: white wine. Always the perfect colour for Springbank. Nose: an ideal counterpoint after the CAD. It is the same whisky, just eighteen years older. It's lost a little oomph, but it won more complexity and subtleness, and even more elegance. Perfect chalky, sooty, fermentary, gristy notes, then rather less lemon than in the young ones, and more camphory and medicinal notes. Iodine, mercurochrome, oysters, ointments, peat smoke… In the end, it is almost like if Campbeltown and Islay had moved closer back in 1992. Plate tectonics, maybe? Mouth: indeed, you would be forgiven for saying this is an older Islay. Tight lemony smoke, cough syrup, kippers, grapefruits, brine, ashes, touches of passion fruits, oysters, plasticine, bitter almonds… This is troubling. Finish: not too long but wonderfully tertiary. Many smaller coastal and resinous notes, and a little sesame and fish oil in the aftertaste. 90% sesame, 10% fish (phew!) Comments: just wonderful. Those vintages weren't easy when they were young, but this is really magnificent and goes to prove, once more, that time is whisky's main ingredient. 91 points - whiskyfun.com

    • Nick's Import
    • Limit One per customer
    1991 Scoma Springbank 30 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (500ml)
    Campbeltown, SCOTLAND
    $2699. 00
    Bottle
    $32388.00 Dozen
    ABV: 47.2%

    Germany-based Scoma has been described as "a legendary and very influential whisky shop that played a pivotal role in European whisky enthusiasm", responsible for importing many great and important names (including Springbank and Cadenhead), well before demand for single malts was on the rise. Their own label selections are held in high regard, such as this idiosyncratic, single cask oloroso matured Springbank limited to 222 bottles. Distilled in 1991 and bottled in 2021, presumably at a natural strength of 47.2% Alc./Vol., it's guaranteed to be a little off the beaten track compared to official distillery equivalents. Non chill filtered.

    • Nick's Import
    • Packaging may vary
    Springbank Local Barley 11 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - 2022 Release
    Campbeltown, SCOTLAND
    $699. 00
    Bottle
    $8388.00 Dozen
    ABV: 55.1%

    Collectors note: Springbank's labels almost always arrive with minor wearing and markings, most often to the top of the front labels. This is unavoidable. If you are likely to be disappointed by minor label scuffing, we recommend you don't buy these whiskies.

    15,000 bottles make up the 2022 addition to one of our all-time favourite series of contemporary Springbanks. Produced from Belgravia barley harvested from Glencraig's Farm near Campbeltown, the resulting spirit was matured in a mix of 55% Sherry, 35% Bourbon and 10% x-Rum barrels giving it a markedly deeper colour than many previous Local Barley bottlings. Considering the reputation for high quality and the very limited nature of this series, we don't expect any of the LBs to be easily re-stocked in the future. 55.1% Alc./Vol. Non-chill filtered.

    Other reviews... I find it very smart that they would keep using the old livery (while it's not the oldest for the LBs). This one was distilled from Belgravia barley from Glencraigs Farm, right on the road to Campbeltown. Colour: white wine. Nose: something else, really, this is almost a blend of mezcal, aquavit and genever, even if seawater and pure lemon juice would then chime in. In the end, it is pure oyster juice, with some tabasco and Worcester sauce, plus a good glass of zero-dosage champagne. With water: once again, more mud, rainwater and porridge, with a touch of curry this time, poppadums, Mouth (neat): but where does this mezcal stem from? More bone-dry champagne too, more aquavit, more oyster water, more lemon and lime juices. It's also fat and oily, and certainly not as 'dirty' as your usual Springbanks (which, granted, I love too). With water: some curry again, aniseed, capsicum, bell pepper… I would suppose that's the oak, not the Belgravia barley. It's different, vive la difference, I like it. Finish: long, with salty lemons ruing it all and much more smoke in the aftertaste. Comments: I just tried 2017's 11 yo Local Barley again, I find this newer expression of an eleven largely superior, but I wouldn't say it's better, stricto sensu, than the astounding 2007 from Cadenhead's. 91 points - whiskyfun.com

    • Limit One per customer
    • Nick's Import
    Springbank Open Day 2023 Whisky Set (3 x 350ml) - Bottled for the Campbeltown Malts Festival
    Campbeltown, SCOTLAND
    $999. 00
    Bottle
    $11988.00 Dozen

    This pack gives drinkers and collectors the chance to purchase all three releases for Springbank Open Day 2023, an event which took place in May of the same year as part of the Campbeltown Malts Festival. You get 350ml bottles of the following:

    • Springbank 24 Year Old -matured in Oloroso & port casks 47.6% - one of 1,920 bottles

    • Longrow 8 Year Old -matured in Oloroso casks 54.9% - one of 2,000 bottles

    • Hazelburn 14 Year Old -matured in Oloroso casks 49.8% - one of 2,000 bottles

    • Nick's Import
    • Limit One per customer
    Springbank 10 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - 2005 bottling
    Campbeltown, SCOTLAND
    $699. 00
    Bottle
    $8388.00 Dozen
    ABV: 46%

    Collectors note: Springbank's labels almost always arrive with minor wearing and markings, most often to the top of the front labels. This is unavoidable. If you are likely to be disappointed by minor label scuffing, we recommend you don't buy these whiskies.

    Hard to believe we were able to source this time capsule, bottled in 2005 before the new style labelling was applied to the 10 year old and presentation boxes were still used. It's during this era that the ten year old gradually got peatier and more peppery (and better!), a trend that continued for many years, cementing its reputation as one of the most characterful tenners on the market. 46% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

    • Nick's Import
    • Limit One per customer
    Springbank 25 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - 2020 Limited Edition Bottling
    Campbeltown, SCOTLAND
    $3499. 00
    Bottle
    $41988.00 Dozen
    ABV: 46%

    Collectors note: Springbank's labels almost always arrive with minor wearing and markings, most often to the top of the front labels. This is unavoidable. If you are likely to be disappointed by minor label scuffing, we recommend you don't buy these whiskies.

    Probably a run of around 1300-1400 bottles, Springbank 25s from the years preceding and after 2020 received glowing reviews from whiskyfun.com so expect the quality to be maintained here. 46% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

    • Limit One per customer
    • Nick's Import
    1999 Springbank 21 Year Old Private Bottling Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Campbeltown, SCOTLAND
    $1699. 00
    Bottle
    $20388.00 Dozen
    ABV: 49.8%

    Independent / private bottlings of Springbank are not common. We have snapped up a tiny volume of this all-natural 21 year old that looks to have been destined for a group of whisky aficionados in the Netherlands. Described as "clean, malty, peaty and creamy" by one taster, its bright gold colour suggests Bourbon maturation or possibly refill sherry. The outturn was 288 bottles at 49.8% Alc./Vol. Non-chill filtered. Collectable.

    • Limit One per customer
    Springbank 21 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - 2022 bottling
    Campbeltown, SCOTLAND
    $1999. 00
    Bottle
    $23988.00 Dozen
    ABV: 46%

    Collectors note: Springbank's labels almost always arrive with minor wearing and markings, most often to the top of the front labels. This is unavoidable. If you are likely to be disappointed by minor label scuffing, we recommend you don't buy these whiskies.

    For the 2022 release, Springbank 21 spent its time maturing in a combination of Sherry and Port casks, so you can expect plenty of red fruit and baking spice aromas and flavours. It reflects last years which also incorporated a Bourbon cask component, although in 2022, the colour looks darker. 46% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

    • Limit One per customer
    Springbank 18 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - 2022 bottling
    Campbeltown, SCOTLAND
    $799. 00
    Bottle
    $9588.00 Dozen
    ABV: 46%

    Collectors note: Springbank's labels almost always arrive with minor wearing and markings, most often to the top of the front labels. This is unavoidable. If you are likely to be disappointed by minor label scuffing, we recommend you don't buy these whiskies.

    First offerred around 2010, now retaining its mauve presentation, but without a presentation box, this coastal classic has been matured in ex-bourbon casks, showcasing the distillery's distinctive distillate with extra age. 46% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

    Springbank 12 Year Old 100 Proof Green Thistle Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Campbeltown, SCOTLAND
    $5999. 00
    Bottle
    $71988.00 Dozen
    ABV: 50%

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

    Springbank doesn't require great age to be astonishingly good, as evidenced by the 12 year old that still ranks as Whiskyfun's all-time favourite expression (98 points). That was an early 1980s Samaroli selection. This bottling looks to be from the same era, possibly later. What’s certain is that just about every Springbank 100 proof 12 year old from the 1980s through to the 1990s is described as dazzling and flying high above the clouds. In search of the distillery's sweet spot, it would seem we're getting very, very close here. 50% Alc./Vol. Collectable.

    Talisker Glacial Edge 45 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Isle of Skye, SCOTLAND
    $7999. 00
    Bottle
    $95988.00 Dozen
    ABV: 49.8%

    At the time of writing, this is the oldest whisky ever released from Talisker. It's also the final instalment in the Xpedition Oak series. Once again, the distillery has partnered with Parley for the Oceans, an environmental organisation, Twelve heavily charred American oak casks were shipped from the Isle of Skye to Canada's Arctic ice fields. A cooper removed the cask ends and they were then left in sub-zero temperatures for four days, causing the wood to fracture and therefore increasing the surface area with which the whisky could interact during its finishing period in the casks back in Scotland. Talisker's notes say to look out for "maritime and spice notes on the nose, followed by an oily mouthfeel with chili, salted caramel, and toffee on the palate, and a long finish laced with briny salt and black pepper."  2455 bottles are available globally. 49.8% Alc./Vol.

    Other reviews... Bottle in support of Parley and finished in ice fractured casks, that is to say in casks that have been kept in Arctic winds for 96 hours, which created cracks, thus extending the wood/spirit ratio. Not too sure that's 'traditional' by the SWA's standards, but it's good fun, it reminds me of that indie Highland Park that was finished on Mount Cervin in Switzerland. Colour: Gold. Nose: It's rather sweet, true to the character of the old Taliskers, with more camphor and aged balm than in the more recent vintages. This is followed by splendid notes of almond paste, fine oysters (the small flat ones), and roots, in particular wild carrot and gentian. There's also a bit of shoe polish and castor oil, as well as a soft and gentle tar. I have no idea what effect the finishing in 'iced casks' was meant to impart to this marvellous old Talisker, let's just say it's not obvious on the nose (no seal fat and very little dried fish, ha-ha). Mouth: Younger, perhaps it's the iced wood? Notes of grapefruit liqueur, banana, and vanilla at the start, but this modern profile quickly gives way to oysters, lemon, seaweed, sea water, salty spices, lemon balm, coriander seeds, sweet woodruff, and a bit of pine sap. The mouthfeel is perfect, with a wonderful texture. Finish: Long and really salty, it's almost as though they've submerged the casks in the ocean rather than exposing them to freezing temperatures. It seems they even added a few sardines and anchovies. Jokes aside, a superb finish that leads to an aftertaste of lemon marmalade and kippers. And salted bitter almonds. And lemon zest. And Italian bitters. Comments: A formidable old Talisker. As long as they mention ages and/or vintages, no problems with funny stories, they can go ahead, nothing really scares us (apart from the hackneyed but still used trick of the unlisted old cask found by chance in the warehouse - wink). 93 points - whiskyfun.com

    ...The challenge with any single malt over 40 years old is to keep the oak in check and not have it overpower the spirit.  Next is to ensure the palate doesn’t become too dry or tannic.  This Talisker 45yo doesn’t just clear those two hurdles, but it sails over them with ease. The nose is exceptionally complex and appealing, offering up something new with each return sniff. The palate also takes you on a journey, starting off with the family of flavours that typically accompany geriatric peated whisky (very similar, in fact, to some of Diageo’s Special Releases editions and other releases of Brora and Port Ellen in recent years), but then broadening as dark chocolate, malt, and oak expand the horizon. Delicious whisky, and one that will delight and reward. - whiskyandwisdom.com

    Talisker 30 Year Old Cask strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - Bottled 2007
    Isle of Skye, SCOTLAND
    $2999. 00
    Bottle
    $35988.00 Dozen
    ABV: 50.7%

    Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Specifically, there are some blemishes and marks on the outer and inner of the box and the bottle shows some cellar bloom. Actual product pictured.

    A natural-strength Talisker released way back in 2007 - and with a huge age statement. Serge Valentin at whiskyfun.com absolutely loved it (review below), while Jim Murray thought the oak was encroaching. 50.7% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

    Other reviews... Last year’s edition was truly excellent, very fresh and very clean (91), here’s the brand new edition. Colour: straw. Nose: very different from the G&M, certainly peatier, purer, even cleaner, more ‘riesling’. Fab sharpness considering its age. It’s also much waxier, more on purely fresh seaweed, coal smoke, apple peelings, fresh walnuts, almond milk... Also hints of shoe polish, wet stones, lemon zest. Gets more mineral with time and smokier as well. I remember having written than the 2006 version remembered me of Didier Dagueneau’s ultra-sharp Pouillys. Well, this is the Silex! I love this, no need to say. Mouth: starts a little fruitier but mostly on lemons, oranges and citrons together with these waxy and slightly resinous notes again. The expected pepper is well here, as well as green tea, small bitter apples... Gets grassier and a little drier, with also notes of fresh hazelnuts, hints of olive oil... And then frankly medicinal, with quite some camphor, salt, peaty smokiness... Full bodied, almost pungent (well, not quite), getting very, very salty after a moment. It grows bigger and bigger, as if you just wakened a giant. Finish: very long, very salty, not too peppery, with bunches of crystallised citrus fruits just like at the attack. Well, I think I like this one even better than the 2006 version, which was maybe just a tad shier than the 2007. 92 points - whiskyfun.com

    Talisker Forests of the Deep 44 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Isle of Skye, SCOTLAND
    $6999. 00
    Bottle
    $83988.00 Dozen
    ABV: 49.1%

    Launched in late 2022 in Australia at 44 years of age, this is the oldest Talisker on record. Born of the sea, and sub titled, "Forests of the Deep", it has been created as a reflection of the power and beauty of our oceans, inspired by an expedition to one of the world’s largest sea kelp forests near the Cape of Good Hope, led by Talisker’s partner in ocean conservation, Parley for the Oceans. On board the ship were Talisker cask staves, which were later charred using a small amount of sustainably-farmed Scottish sea kelp and stave wood shavings. The whisky was finished in these marine oak casks before bottling at 49.1%. It's a follow up to the equally eccentric but critically acclaimed 43 year old 'Xpedition Oak', finished in casks that included wooden staves that had traversed the Atlantic, from the Spanish Canary islands to Antigua, on the deck of adventurer James Aiken's yacht. Presented in a spectacular oval shaped case, 1,997 bottles of Forests of the Deep will be released globally. Rave reviews from several bloggers, so if you are one of the lucky few to taste it, put yourself in seclusion for a few hours to get a full showing of everything this has to offer. Very limited stocks.

    • Not gift boxed
    2000 Talisker Distillers Edition Double Matured Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Isle of Skye, SCOTLAND
    $199. 00
    Bottle
    $2388.00 Dozen
    ABV: 45.8%

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

    Note: No gift box supplied.


    All six of Diageo's 'Classic Malts' have released limited edition 'Distiller's editions', which are finished in special casks selected by the master distiller. Talisker, which combines the island style of distinctive peatiness with it own individual notes of spice and pepper, has accented its character by finishing in Jerez Amoroso cask wood (a sweetened Oloroso sherry), amplifying Talisker's sweetness and rounding out its rugged peaty character.

    Distilled in 2000 and bottled in 2011. 45.8% Alc./Vol.

    • Not gift boxed
    2002 Talisker Distillers Edition Double Matured Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Isle of Skye, SCOTLAND
    $250. 00
    Bottle
    $3000.00 Dozen
    ABV: 45.8%

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

    Note: No gift box supplied.

    Other reviews...
    This DE has lost its brown livery and goes for blue like all the other Taliskers, but it's kept its finishing in amoroso casks. Colour: gold. Nose: a rather gentler Talisker, we’ve already tried many vintages and this one isn’t very different, the sweeter raisiny (instead of vinous) touches blend well with the maritime, almost sardine-y profile, while the peat was toned down. Actually, I’m wondering whether this vintage isn’t a little better than earlier ones, it’s very well integrated and does not reek of wine or grapes at all. Wonderful notes of smooth and fruity olive oil (do you know Nyons?), brine and then orange zests. Also the smoke from menthol cigarettes? Very nice nose, subtle and complex. After fifteen minutes, pink grapefruits! Mouth: this time it becomes a little fizzy, with a little leather, bitter oranges, the expected pepper and a mild smokiness. Seaweed, nori, some menthol again and a slight feeling of shoe polish. Works. Finish: rather long, ashy and peppery. Always bitter oranges, esp. in the aftertaste. Some salt too – of course. Comments: I think it’s a good vintage, and that the finishing was done well, with a wine that complements the spirit rather than overwhelming it. 87 points - whiskyfun.com

    [2003 vintage tasted] Fleeting green apples on the nose, before sweetening with figs, sultanas, red berries, and chili. Peat smoke finally makes its presence felt. Full-bodied on the palate, with spicy smoke, dark chocolate, peaches, and Jaffa orange; the additional fruitiness courtesy of the amoroso cask influence. Long and softly smoky in the finish, with ginger and lingering fruit notes. 88 points - whiskyadvocate.com

    • Not gift boxed
    1999 Talisker Distillers Edition Double Matured Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Isle of Skye, SCOTLAND
    $250. 00
    Bottle
    $3000.00 Dozen
    ABV: 45.8%

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

    Note: No gift box supplied.

    Other reviews...
    Finished in Amoroso wine cask, Amoroso being a sweet kind of sherry, usually quite raisiny. I guess it’s not easy to propose a ‘premiumised’ variant of a well-reputed malt whisky such as Talisker 10. Lagavulin always did it well, the DE being constantly great and sometimes even stellar, while the Talisker DE had more trouble in my book. This is a new version, let’s see what gives… Colour: deep gold. Nose: at first nosing, it’s once again one of these cases where the combination of peat with some sweet wine can create a feeling of soapiness, or even something a bit cardboardy… But as often, all that vanishes and leaves room for sweeter and rounder notes. It’s all rather complex here, fragrant, with whiffs of roses and strawberry jam (while earlier versions were rather drier as far as I can remember). Quite a lot of orange marmalade as well and then some chocolate as well as some fresh oranges. Hints of pepper. Talisker’s coastalness is fairly discrete, with just hints of seaweed. Also a little pepper (of course). The whole works well. Mouth: once again, it’s a bit strange for a start, curiously leathery and tea-ish (strong pu-erh – I’m much into pu-erh these days so I (should) know what I’m talking about ;-)). Gets then creamier and more coherent, mostly on bitter oranges, pepper and chocolate. Rather oily mouth feel. And once again hints of roses in the background (Turkish delights). Finish: fairly long, balanced, sweet, more citrusy and phenolic at the same time. The tea’s back in the aftertaste. Comments: a rounder and rather thicker version of the 10, which was less the case with earlier Talisker DEs if I’m not mistaken. I guess it’ll all come down to what you’re expecting from your Talisker. 86 points - whiskyfun.com

    • Not gift boxed
    1996 Talisker Distillers Edition Double Matured Single Malt Scotch Whisky (1000ml)
    Isle of Skye, SCOTLAND
    $299. 00
    Bottle
    $3588.00 Dozen
    ABV: 45.8%

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

    Note: No gift box supplied.

    Other reviews...
    I have relatively little experience with the DE versions of Talisker I have to confess… Colour: amber. Nose: nicely sweet and raisiny sherry that works with the peppery Talisker warmth behind it. Slightly leafy bonfire smoke, dark chocolate with sea salt and wee notes of tar extracts, cough syrup and smoky teas. I feel rather pleasantly surprised. Mouth: the sweetness of this type of sherry is very clear here, to the point I actually find it a little sticky and cloying, but these feelings of natural tar and nicely herbal cough syrup bring it back from the brink. It also helps to give a nicely syrupy sense of mouthfeel. Add to that a few subtle notes of iodine and camphor and everything is looking pretty tidy. Finish: medium and back on tarry, camphory and with some notes of pickling juices, black pepper and liquorice. Comments: what we really have here I think, is a very good sherry and peat profile dram. I think the Talisker DNA is slightly hidden at times, but globally speaking you can see how such a litre bottling would be pretty deadly tumbler juice on the right evening. 87 points - whiskyadvocate.com

    The Macallan A Night On Earth Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - 2023 Release
    Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND
    $230. 00
    Bottle
    $2760.00 Dozen
    ABV: 43%

    A limited edition that tells a story of New Year in Scotland, reflecting the joy of celebrating special occasions with loved ones. This seasonal release is a collaboration with acclaimed Chinese artist, Nini Sum. The whisky was created from a balanced combination of exceptional first-fill American ex-bourbon barrels, along with European and American sherry-seasoned oak casks. Macallan have invigorated the presentation in 2023; The handsome tapered bottle comes housed in two separate sleeves. 43% Alc./Vol.

    Notes from the producers... Aroma: Toasted oak, creamy steamed rice and coconut milk pudding, citrus fruits, vanilla and oat biscuits. Palate: A burst of effervescent citrus fruits—lemon and lime with sweet creamy vanilla sponge and toasted coconut. Finish: Medium with sweet, toasted oak and vanilla.

    The Macallan James Bond 60th Anniversary Release Decade VI Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND
    $2999. 00
    Bottle
    $35988.00 Dozen
    ABV: 43.7%

    The Macallan has become James Bond’s whisky of choice in recent years, reflecting his appreciation for the finer things in life. The brands have shared many moments together on screen, including Skyfall when Bond drinks The Macallan Fine & Rare 1962 as an ode to the 50th anniversary. Now comes the 'Decade Series', celebrating Bond's 60th anniversary, expressed through six unique releases. The distinctive packaging brings to life the creative development of the films in a behind the scenes exploration of the Bond archives. It aims at bringing to life the innovations and inventions of James Bond across the years, and the packaging has been colour washed with one of the trending colours of the decade it represents. Decade VI explores the Bond innovations and archives of the 2010s. The pack design features a Day of The Dead poster from Spectre (2015) and a Skyfall Lodge illustration from Skyfall (2012). The Day of the Dead poster calls back to the action packed opening sequence in Spectre. Instead of filming Mexico’s popular festival, the production created their own version, taking over Zocalo Square with over 1,500 extras. In 2012 Skyfall brought the audience back to James Bond’s childhood home, but also tragically destroyed it. Daniel Craig’s performances endeared further notes of domesticity, deep love and family. Making the character more relatable than ever, Craig reveals a vulnerable humanity at Bond’s core, without compromising any trademark resolve or physical capability. The packaging design features childhood home Skyfall Lodge in Skyfall (2012), and a Day of the Dead poster from Spectre (2015).

    The whisky itself was created by Master Whisky Maker, Kirsteen Campbell to reflect the character of Bond: A force of nature defined by his Scottish heritage. Like James Bond, the whisky exudes a sense of style and maturity which has evolved over the years and is consistent within all six bottles. 43.7% Alc./Vol.

    Notes from Macallan... Swiss gold in colour. The nose is fresh and vibrant notes of lemon and lime, a sprinkle of sherbet, leading into a sweet vanilla and coconut, with a hint of dried fig and raisin. On the palate flavours of orange zest and fizzy sherbet with a lemon freshness, gentle oak and subtle ginger spice, leading into a deep dark chocolate, figs and baked apple tart with a honey drizzle. The finish is sweet and long with complexed layers.

    The Macallan James Bond 60th Anniversary Release Decade V Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND
    $2999. 00
    Bottle
    $35988.00 Dozen
    ABV: 43.2%

    The Macallan has become James Bond’s whisky of choice in recent years, reflecting his appreciation for the finer things in life. The brands have shared many moments together on screen, including Skyfall when Bond drinks The Macallan Fine & Rare 1962 as an ode to the 50th anniversary. Now comes the 'Decade Series', celebrating Bond's 60th anniversary, expressed through six unique releases. The distinctive packaging brings to life the creative development of the films in a behind the scenes exploration of the Bond archives. It aims at bringing to life the innovations and inventions of James Bond across the years, and the packaging has been colour washed with one of the trending colours of the decade it represents. Decade V explores the Bond innovations and archives of the 2000s. The design features digital concept art of the Siena Gallery Interior from Quantum Of Solace (2008) and a driving sequence storyboard from Casino Royale (2006). Leaving the 90s behind, Daniel Craig embodies the Bond of the noughties. From his first appearance in Casino Royale, never was a card game presented so stylishly and with more tension in any other film. The setting, ingredients, character and dedication to craft combine to deliver an utterly compelling result. The packaging design features a dramatic car sequence from Casino Royale (2006), and a digitally sketched rooftop chase in Quantum Of Solace (2008).

    The whisky itself was created by Master Whisky Maker, Kirsteen Campbell to reflect the character of Bond: A force of nature defined by his Scottish heritage. Like James Bond, the whisky exudes a sense of style and maturity which has evolved over the years and is consistent within all six bottles. 43.7% Alc./Vol.

    Notes from Macallan... Swiss gold in colour. The nose is fresh and vibrant notes of lemon and lime, a sprinkle of sherbet, leading into a sweet vanilla and coconut, with a hint of dried fig and raisin. On the palate flavours of orange zest and fizzy sherbet with a lemon freshness, gentle oak and subtle ginger spice, leading into a deep dark chocolate, figs and baked apple tart with a honey drizzle. The finish is sweet and long with complexed layers.

    The Macallan Rare Cask Red Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - 2022 release
    Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND
    $550. 00
    Bottle
    $6600.00 Dozen
    ABV: 43%

    Hot on the heels of the 2021 edition, the new Rare Cask Red represents whiskies drawn from some of the distillery's "finest and rarest sherry seasoned oak casks". Or as Sarah Burgess, Lead Whisky Maker puts it, "Every oak cask has its own personality, with little differences that make them unique. From time to time The Macallan Whisky Mastery Team discovers casks maturing in our warehouses which stand out from the others." Specifically, they display an intense, sweet raisin note coupled with better than expected complexity. While many have questioned whether there's actually any vintage variation in these annual bottlings, few have the chance to open them to taste. The stunning presentation alone means most will be snaffled away by collectors. 43% Alc./Vol.

    The Macallan 25 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - Annual 2021 Release
    Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND
    $4499. 00
    Bottle
    $53988.00 Dozen
    ABV: 43%

    Now labelled from their date of release rather than the date of distillation, the newly packaged Macallan 25 follows a long tradition being matured in hand-picked oloroso sherry seasoned oak casks from Jerez for added richness and complexity. Sourced, crafted, toasted and seasoned under the watchful eye of Macallan's Master of Wood, these hand-picked casks are delivered to the demanding specifications of the Macallan team. Comes handsomely packaged in a laser etched, solid oak timber presentation box. 43% Alc./Vol.

    The Macallan A Night On Earth Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - 2021 Release
    Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND
    $299. 00
    Bottle
    $3588.00 Dozen
    ABV: 40%

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

    There's been quite some interest in this curiously titled Macallan which reflects the story of Scotland’s world-famous Hogmanay festivities celebrated annually on 31st December. This seasonal release is a collaboration with acclaimed Japanese-French illustrator, Erica Dorn, whose artwork has featured in director Wes Anderson’s films.
    The unique packaging provides a special unboxing experience coupled with Dorn’s playful abstract illustrations, inspired by the historic fire rituals dominant in New Year celebrations around the world. Upon opening the gift box you discover a blue interior, representing the night skies of Hogmanay (New Year’s Eve) and the blue from the national flag of Scotland, the Saltire.​

    Says Macallan's Lead Whisky Maker, Sarah Burgess, "Creating A Night on Earth in Scotland has been an extremely personal experience for me, which took me back to growing up in our family home in Speyside, just across the river from The Macallan Estate."

    American and European oak sherry seasoned casks, along with American ex-bourbon barrels have been employed to bestow a rich, sweet shortbread-like character - a whisky referencing the rich Scottish delicacy traditionally gifted and eaten at Hogmanay. This profile is punctuated by festive notes of dried orange and spice. It's recommended neat, with a serve of shortbread on the side. 43% Alc./Vol. Natural colour.

    Other reviews... Macallan always loves to wear its sherry on its sleeve, but this is nonetheless one of the racier bottlings I’ve seen from the classic Speyside outfit in recent years. Boldly sherried up front, the whisky exudes notes of fresh clementines and cloves on the nose, though these exuberant, Christmassy characteristics are tempered by notes of oiled leather and roasted chestnuts. Austere but refined, it immediately invites sipping, where many of these same elements are evident. Oily with orange and nougat notes prominent, it fades into a lightly grassy cereal character, some youth evident later in the game. The finish has a gently pastoral character to it, though it remains bright and dripping in citrus notes, almost lemony at times. While it’s not overwhelmingly serious or complex, it is hard to put down — and a (nearly) classic example of what Macallan does best. And it’s awfully pretty in the box. - drinkhacker.com

     

    • 93
    • 93
    The Macallan 12 Year Old Sherry Matured Single Malt Scotch Whisky (750ml) - 43% Old Packaging
    Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND
    $350. 00
    Bottle
    $4200.00 Dozen
    ABV: 43%

    Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. This one, in particular, has some moderate creasing around the bottom. Actual product not pictured.

    The equivalent of an old-school modern Macallan bottled at 43%. Very limited stocks.


    It's often been said that every whisky lover's duty is to drink more sherry. To understand why is to grasp one of the economies fundamental to Scotch whisky production. Originally, the Scots relied solely on oak trees from the forests of England to create casks and mature their whiskies. But as their markets expanded, Scotland's distilleries needed to find an alternative oak source. As it happened, sherry was in abundance and highly fashionable with the English drinking public who consumed roughly 30% of the world's production. So sherry casks seemed a logical alternative for the Scots. Fast forward to current times and the opposite has occurred. Worldwide demand for Spanish Sherry has dramatically declined. This has turned the Scotch whisky industry on its head with fewer Sherry barrels becoming available.

    What partly makes Spanish sherry barrels so special is the oak itself, Quercus Robur, with the Spanish trees cut down at 60 to 70 years of age. Research has shown that tannins in the wood act as a catalyst that aids oxidization during the maturation period hence being a highly desirable commodity in malt whisky production. The old Spanish timbers contain approximately ten times more tannin than the 30 to 40 year-old Quercus Alba, or American White Oak that's used to make barrels for the maturation of Bourbon whiskey. The deep colour and distinct rich, fruity / citrus peel flavours (sometimes marmalade-like) that ex-sherry casks can impart are more obvious reasons for their value and preference by the Scots.

    The present day process for acquiring Sherry barrels into Scotland is unusual, a result of the fundamentals of supply and demand.  Sherry houses are commissioned to produce Sherry for the sole purpose of selling what they would consider a 'by-product' - essentially a first-fill barrel with a life expectancy of two fills. The process is as follows:
    1. Trees are purchased from Northern Spain allowing two years after felling and being left in the open for natural chemicals in the wood to interact and for the moisture content to drop.
    2. The wood is commissioned for cooperage by Whisky producers.
    3. Sherry (usually Oloroso) must then be 'leased' by the Whisky producer for a minimum of two years in order to season the barrel.

    In comparison, the average price of filling a Bourbon cask is $50 compared to an astounding $300+ per fill for the sherry; also bear in mind that usual life expectancy for Bourbon barrels is three fills as opposed to two for Sherry. 'They literally have us over a barrel,' quips past master distiller at Macallan, David Robertson.

    Enter again the Scots looking for a bargain!  For some time know, the Scots have been seeking alternatives to Sherry casks. Charles MacLean explains how American ex-bourbon casks came to dominate the present industry. In his book “Scotch Whisky, a Liquid History”, he describes how “In 1936, the cooper’s unions in the US broked a deal with [American] whisky makers which insisted that Bourbon must be filled into new oak, so there was suddenly a large surplus of cheap American barrels. These started to arrive into Scotland in 1946, either intact or broken down into ‘shooks’ of staves and reassembled into traditional Scotch (200L) hogsheads...The whisky industry thus kept pace with demand by embracing  changes in production methods which were compatible with efficiency and productivity.” Output increased exponentially (this in turn led to oversupply problems in the next decade).

    100% Sherry cask matured whiskies are now rare. Unless whisky lovers take up drinking Sherry themselves, it’s not hard to envisage that in the near future, supply and demand will send prices skyward. Expect to be paying much, much more for these historical curios in the years to come - if you can find them at all.

    As die-hard Sherry heads well know, 100% Sherry Matured Macallan is not officially imported into Australia anymore. These whiskies will never be available on a regular basis.  Our advice is to stock up!


    Universally recognised as one of the world's greatest single malt scotch whiskies, The Macallan is consistently awarded top ratings by the world's leading spirit journalists. Described by Paul Pacult, the renowned international whisky writer, in his book Kindred Spirits as: 'simply the best 12 Year Old single malt around', its creation lies in defiant adherence to traditional methods and ingredients. The insistence on Oloroso Sherry casks from Spain remains one of the key factors in its desirability.

    Tasting note: Bright copper penny colour. Peppery with dull suggestions of rubber in the first pass giving way to richer scents of dried fruits, hazelnuts, almonds, light marzipan, dark chocolate and more. The extra ABV ups the concentration to an unexpected degree delivering a spicy, mouthfilling profile including hazelnut, cocoa, oatmeal biscuit and pepper. Vanilla malt mingles with traces of cinnamon and sulphur into the finish. Long, complex and surprisingly robust.43% Alc./Vol.

     

    Other reviews... The initial aroma is sweetish, winey and oaky; aeration allows the aroma to expand to include marzipan, treacle, molasses, honey, vanilla bean, cinnamon and cocoa butter. The palate entry is sweet, creamy and assertive; at midpalate the flavor becomes intensely nutty, buttery and bacon fat-like, with the beginnings of rancio. Remains one of Speyside’s standard-bearer 12 year olds.  90-95 points.
    - www.wineenthusiast.com

    The Macallan Edition No. 1 Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND
    $4999. 00
    Bottle
    $59988.00 Dozen
    ABV: 48%

    Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product not shown. If you would like information on specific signs of wear, please contact us on freecall 1800 069 295.

    Released in 2015 and joining Macallan's stream of recent NAS bottlings is "Edition No. 1", targeted towards the U.S. market, and reportedly drawn from eight distinct European and American oak cask styles and sizes. Naturally coloured and bottled at 48% ABV (unusual for Macallan), the actual cask regime has been stated too: First-fill casks consisted of Tevasa Butts, Toneleria Hudo Butts, Vasyma Puncheons, J&M Martin Butts, Gonzalez Byass Butts and Tevasa Puncheons. The second-fill casks were Sherry hogsheads and Sherry butts. The only casks that used American White Oak were the Vasyma Puncheons, whereas the rest used European Oak. Some tasters have described the whisky as "a big step up" from Macallan's standard 1824 range.

    Master Whisky Maker, Bob Dalgarno says to expect hints of orange, apple and dried fruit on the nose, leading into wood spices on the palate supported by nutmeg, cinnamon and hints of dried ginger and toffee and a medium to long and lingering finish.

    Other reviews... People tend to moan about Macallan having lost its mojo. Not here. This is a vatting of different sized American and (mostly) European oak casks, so no surprise that it’s oak-led, but Macallan is a heavy distillate and it needs oak to prosper fully. Here you get rosin, marmalade, green fig jam, and the power of concentrated oils. The palate is powerful and supple, with some clove, ginger, and yet more chocolate. Substantial and well worth checking out.
    87 points - whiskyadvocate.com, reviewed by: Dave Broom (Summer 2016)

    • 95
    1997 The Macallan Sherry Matured 18 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND
    $3999. 00
    Bottle
    $47988.00 Dozen
    ABV: 43%

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

    Produced from whiskies distilled in 1997 and earlier, this displays the impeccable pedigree of 18 Year Old Macallan of which critics have long been consistent and loud in their praise. The distillery's benchmark excellence is showcased in the 18 Year Old which is exclusively matured in selected Sherry oak casks from Jerez, Spain.

    Tasting note: The flashy polished copper colour is a pleasure to behold. Superb purity to the nose with raisin cake and orange zest openings. Air contact finds baking spices, but drops the intensity. Rebounds in the final pass with an impressive burst of hazelnut / dried apricot / rancio / fruit cake / cocoa - in short, a classic sherry infusion. The spices have settled compared to the 12YO - as you'd expect. This is all class and polish, with a beautiful integration of malt, dried fruits and sweet nuttiness on the palate followed by a gentle flourish of spicy raisin cake at the finish. Great poise, being neither too sweet or too dry. Softly spoken yet confident, fine tuned, never overdone. An arm chair dram for quiet contemplation. 43% Alc./Vol.

    Other reviews… Nose: Deeply attractive, honeyed with prickling wood spice and brandy butter. Palate: Rich and lingering, yielding warm raisiny, sherried and oaky notes. Finish: Long, oaky-peppery, distinguished. Smoky at the last. Comment: An aristocratic and balanced Macallan, though drier than some recent 18 year releases.
    9.5 / 10
    whiskymag.com.

    The Macallan Edition No. 4 Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND
    $550. 00
    Bottle
    $6600.00 Dozen
    ABV: 48.4%

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

    Released in America in July 2018, Edition 4 was aged in a combination of seven different cask types including European-American Oak 2nd refill butts, European-American Oak 2nd refill hogsheads, European Oak first fill Diego Martin Rosado butts, American Oak first fill Vasyma hogsheads, European Oak first fill Tevasa butts-puncheons, European Oak first fill Jose Y Miguel Martin butts and European Oak first fill Tevasa hogsheads.

    Master Distiller, Nick Savage describes it as “A truly spectacular single malt, delivering a rounded honey and sweet toffee aroma and an intense burst of nutmeg wood spices on the palate... the combination of carefully selected sherry-seasoned oak casks brings out unique refreshing qualities delivering an unforgettable whisky experience”.

    Other reviews... Seven types of European and American oak casks were used for maturation. Lively on the nose, with orange, malt, sherry, and sweet oak. Initially, a touch hot on the palate, with sherry and cloves, then toffee and vanilla, red apples, figs, and cocoa. The finish is medium to long, with spicy sherry. 48.4% Alc./Vol.
    90 points whiskyadvocate.com, reviewed by: Gavin Smith (Fall 2018)

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