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World Whiskies

If you're looking to buy Indian whisky, Dutch Whisky, French whisky, Welsh Whisky or rare Japanese whisky online, Nicks Wine Merchants have whisky from every continent on earth assembled in one store. If you can't find it here, call us on 1800 069 295 and we'll try to track it down.

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- 84
Michel Couvreur Clearach Single Malt Whisky (700ml)

Burgundy, FRANCE

$129. 99
Bottle
$1559.88 Dozen

ABV: 43%

Tasting note: Produced from malt distilled in Scotland and matured between 2 to 3 years in fresh PX sherry casks. Slightly cloudy, pale gold/ brassy colour. Mildly prickly, restrained opening sniff. Meek breakfast cereal aromas, followed by hints of dried fruit and a faint rubbery edge. Doesn't really budge even after several minutes coaxing in the glass. Clean, dryish, light to medium bodied profile delivers a malty, cereal mid palate, thinning out towards the finish which is vanilla wafer like and carried by the spices. Simple and raw.43% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... Colour: gold. No new make, obviously, but virtual whisky that’s younger than 3 years. Nose: vanilla and praline plus fudge and café latte. Whiffs of yellow wild flowers and a little smoke. More mature than many 10yo malts on the nose. Mouth: very sweet and very malty. A certain harshness, typical of very young whiskies. Vanilla and quite some oak (ginger and nutmeg). A very active cask it seems. Finish: medium long, getting even spicier (white pepper). Comments: well, I don’t know what this would have become over time, it’s already rather woody, albeit pleasantly so. 73 points - Serge Valentin, whiskyfun.com
Burgundy is a place full of personalities at the high end of the passion scale, especially when it comes to food and drink - perhaps none more so than a Belgian who is presently maturing Scotch Whisky in the heart of the famous French wine region. The fellow in question is Michel Couvreur, and he's a man on a mission when it comes to Scotch Whisky.
Entering from the wine trade, his is an increasingly familiar story within the whisky industry. He'd already established a business in the early 1950s in Scotland selling Burgundy wines when in 1978, French friends suggested that he add a top quality Scotch to his portfolio. So began Couvreur’s interest in the whisky industry from which he developed his ultra-traditionalist perspective on oak. He maintains (more radically than others in the industry) that 90% of a whisky’s quality comes from the cask, and only 10% of the quality comes from the distillation process. In the 1970s, American bourbon casks gradually replaced port and sherry casks for the maturation of Scotch whisky, a great tragedy, according to Couvreur, as it changed the essence of a product that had European barrels at its core.
In a personal crusade, Couvreur settled in Bouze-les-Beaune (close to the Burgundian town of Beaune, France), where he opened a customs bonded cellar and began selecting his own sherry casks (Pedro Ximenez and Palomino) from the Andalusia region of Spain. Some readers will be aware, since the 1970's, sherry ceased to be shipped to UK in wood. Whisky producers have now to go and select their casks at sherry bodegas, paying a premium on top of transport costs. It's partly for this reason that Michel Couvreur's cellar is located in Burgundy, half-way between Scotland and Andalusia, with straight motorways from Jerez de la Frontera to Beaune.
Courveur's "Scotch" starts out in Scotland as bulk a.k.a.“clearach” (a high proof distillate) which is transferred to his humid cellar in Bouze-les-Beaune to be aged in small sherry casks that have been impregnated with 25 years aging via traditional soleras. All required dilutions are accomplished with bottled water from Scotland. Total production is about 50,000 bottles or 4,000 cases annually. A small selection of these artisan matured spirits has just arrived in Australia.

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Michel Couvreur Very Sherried 25 Year Old Single Malt French Whisky (500ml)

Burgundy, FRANCE

$850. 00
Bottle
$10200.00 Dozen

ABV: 45%

Going by the 27 year old we tasted a while back, this ultra rare 25 year old will be super-sherried in the best way imaginable. Distilled in Scotland in 1980 then matured in sherry casks in France it comes presented in a gorgeous French glass bottle with wax seal, bottle number and rustic wooden box. Only 600 bottles produced. 45% Alc./Vol.

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- 91
Michel Couvreur Candid Malt Whisky (700ml)

Burgundy, FRANCE

$230. 00
Bottle
$2760.00 Dozen

ABV: 49%

Tasting note: Candid is from malt distilled in 2006 and matured in x-Pedro Ximenez botas (250 liters). Four casks were blended. The deep polished copper colour appears slightly turbid in the glass. The aroma is promising with its initially sweet, vanilla / caramel opening. Prickles the nose on the second pass which is redolent of Christmas pudding. Delicately bitter sweet entry. A flourish of spices covers the tongue; some very attractive, almost juicy fruit cake-like moments here too, sustained into the warm, drying fade. Good length. 49% Alc./Vol.

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- 88
Michel Couvreur The Unique Blended French Whisky (700ml)

Burgundy, FRANCE

$119. 99
Bottle
$1439.88 Dozen

ABV: 44%

A Couvreur blend of malted and un-malted Scotch whiskies (both Pot-still and Coffey distilled). Matured partly in Scotland and partly in France, after four years in barrel it was reduced with Pentland Hills water. Soft and sweet on the nose with notes of dried grass and straw bail, developing with cream tea biscuits and a little citrus lift. That citrusy, grassy zest is on the palate too, giving a sprightly lift to the sweet malt. Spicy. Tastes its age. Non chill filtered. 44% Alc./Vol.
Michel Couvreur's "Scotch" starts out in Scotland as bulk a.k.a.“clearach” (a high proof distillate) which is transferred to his humid cellar in Bouze-les-Beaune, Burgundy, France to be aged in small sherry casks. Total production is about 50,000 bottles or 4,000 cases annually. From 1978 on, Couvreur made maturing whiskies his life’s work, dedicating research to a process which he once compared to 'cross-fertilisation'. Couvreur passed away in 2013; his son-in-law Cyril Deschamps and his cellar master Jean-Arnaud Frantzen, with the invaluable help of Michel’s devoted wife Marthe and his daughter Alexandra, continue to follow to the letter the original philosophy of the house.

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- 91
Michel Couvreur Overaged Single Malt Whisky (700ml)

Burgundy, FRANCE

$169. 99
Bottle
$2039.88 Dozen

ABV: 43%

Tasting note: A vatting of single malts aged between 12 and 20 years in Pedro Ximenez casks. Brassy / gold appearance. Soft vanilla and malt on the nose. Some attractive dried fruits adding depth on the second inspection then more cereals and finally, fruit and nut chocolate. Immediately captivates with its svelte, cream - textured entry; lovely integration and balance with fruit and nut flavours augmented by buzzing spices. Good persistence. 43% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... I remember the early-to-mid 1990s, I did go to a Couvreur tasting in Strasbourg, where their rep told us that whisky was all about wood. It was the first time I was hearing that; I hated the idea right away. But a lot of water (and sawdust) has gone under the bridge since back then… By the way, I suppose ‘overaged’ means pretty young, with some whiskies you always need to translate those things, don’t you. Colour: deep gold. Nose: well, it’s pretty nice, sherried yet balanced, with a good sultanas/malt combo, just a touch of struck match, some lighter pipe tobacco, and loud and clear notes of dried dates. With a marzipan filling! Nice nose, really, I cannot not think of some young Macallans from that period. You know, the 1990s. Also a little menthol and a little ham. A good surprise. Mouth: really old style, starting with some leather and some tobacco, and going on with a sooty sherry, some dry sultanas, and drops of Guinness plus orange squash. No problems with the lower strength. Finish: medium, cleaner than expected, with some herbal teas, cherry stems, more tobacco… Comments: I tend to like the brighter style of the Blooming Gorse even better, but yeah, this little Couvreur was really nice. 83 points - whiskyfun.com

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- 91
Michel Couvreur Blossoming Auld Sherried Single Malt Whisky (700ml)

Burgundy, FRANCE

$450. 00
Bottle
$5400.00 Dozen

ABV: 45%

Tasting note: The deep mahogany / gold ochre hue stains the sides of the glass and shows good viscosity. Mildly prickly aroma offers suggestions of pancake, dilute maple syrup and mocha. Little variation in the second phase which, if anything sees the intensity drop a notch. Light entry opens to a plush, clean, richly sherried profile; semi sweet Christmas cake flavours, hollowing out at the finish, concluding with vanilla and caramel at the fade. 45% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... Colour: dark amber. Nose: this is much more elegant! Prunes, leather, cigars, old wooden furniture and orange marmalade. Mouth: yes, a much better balance here. Smooth, rounded yet not lumpish at all, all on fruitcake, orange zests, sultanas and notes of aniseed. Plus various spices including cloves. Finish: long and in the same vein. Comments: excellent, classic sherried malt. 88 points - Serge Valentin, whiskyfun.com
Burgundy is a place full of personalities at the high end of the passion scale, especially when it comes to food and drink - perhaps none more so than a Belgian who is presently maturing Scotch Whisky in the heart of the famous French wine region. The fellow in question is Michel Couvreur, and he's a man on a mission when it comes to Scotch Whisky.
Entering from the wine trade, his is an increasingly familiar story within the whisky industry. He'd already established a business in the early 1950s in Scotland selling Burgundy wines when in 1978, French friends suggested that he add a top quality Scotch to his portfolio. So began Couvreur’s interest in the whisky industry from which he developed his ultra-traditionalist perspective on oak. He maintains (more radically than others in the industry) that 90% of a whisky’s quality comes from the cask, and only 10% of the quality comes from the distillation process. In the 1970s, American bourbon casks gradually replaced port and sherry casks for the maturation of Scotch whisky, a great tragedy, according to Couvreur, as it changed the essence of a product that had European barrels at its core.
In a personal crusade, Couvreur settled in Bouze-les-Beaune (close to the Burgundian town of Beaune, France), where he opened a customs bonded cellar and began selecting his own sherry casks (Pedro Ximenez and Palomino) from the Andalusia region of Spain. Some readers will be aware, since the 1970's, sherry ceased to be shipped to UK in wood. Whisky producers have now to go and select their casks at sherry bodegas, paying a premium on top of transport costs. It's partly for this reason that Michel Couvreur's cellar is located in Burgundy, half-way between Scotland and Andalusia, with straight motorways from Jerez de la Frontera to Beaune.
Courveur's "Scotch" starts out in Scotland as bulk a.k.a.“clearach” (a high proof distillate) which is transferred to his humid cellar in Bouze-les-Beaune to be aged in small sherry casks that have been impregnated with 25 years aging via traditional soleras. All required dilutions are accomplished with bottled water from Scotland. Total production is about 50,000 bottles or 4,000 cases annually. A small selection of these artisan matured spirits has just arrived in Australia.

Delivery Information
- 94
1997 Michel Couvreur Alba 22 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt French Whisky (500ml)

Burgundy, FRANCE

$699. 00
Bottle
$8388.00 Dozen

ABV: 46%

Tasting note: [20ml sample] Another unique whisky experience: this time Couvreur filled Scottish malt into a Fino sherry cask in 1997 before finishing it for five years in a fresh Chenin Blanc barrel from Sot De l'Ange (the label shape references the winery's own). The aroma opens woody, dry and restrained but stretches its legs with apple and pear as well as hints of balsa wood and straw. On the palate, it starts out slightly apply and nutty, but gets more chewy and porridge-like; The finish adds a delicious dried coconut-chocolate twist, followed by sugared muesli, oatmeal and dried apple. Cask strength at 46%(!), it's another remarkable, one-of-a-kind result from the magical cellars of M. Couvreur. Non chill filtered. 420 bottles produced. Very limited stocks.

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Nikka Miyagikyo Grande Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

JAPAN

$399. 00
Bottle
$4788.00 Dozen

ABV: 48%

Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product not pictured.
A sister release to the the travel exclusive Discovery Series Yoichi is this higher strength, non chill filtered Miyagikyo promising a more intense and pure expression of the single malt that Japanese whisky fans seldom see.

Delivery Information
- Discontinued
- Reduced
Nikka Miyagikyo Malty & Soft Single Malt Japanese Whisky (500ml)

JAPAN

Reduced from $350.00
$199. 99
Bottle
$2399.88 Dozen

ABV: 55%

One of three high-strength editions labelled as "Distillery Limited" and originally available via the distillery only. Readers may remember Miyagikyo making headlines in September 2015 when they discontinued their entire range due to stock shortages caused by an unprecedented boom in Japanese whisky. The label returned to market with a single NAS expression. Since then it's been the only official release that's readily available - anything else comes from the secondary market or the distillery direct. If you've been wanting to up the ante and get closer to the 'real' taste of 100% Japanese whisky with no imported additives, this is a perfect opportunity. The 'Key Malts' series lands at a uniform 55% which is considered close enough to cask strength. At the time of writing, prices vary dramatically. In Australia, it's not unusual to pay $350 plus (if you can find them).
Miyagikyo is Nikka’s second distillery, opening in 1969. Some commentators still refer to it as Sendai, which was its name before Asahi took control of Nikka in 2001. Founder, Masataka Taketsuru's intention was to expand the variety of malts available for his blends, so from the outset, the aim was to build the polar opposite of Yoichi. He sited Miyagikyo partly because the Hirosegawa and Nikkagawa rivers deliver a high-quality water supply. That combined with Miyagikyo’s different natural environment and the use of steam heat distillation, as opposed to coal and direct flame, results in a malt with a relatively mild and fruity character compared to the more powerful style of its sister distillery. Pot stills at Miyagikyo are considerably bigger too, and include boil balls along with an upward sloping lyne arm. This all contributes to a considerable amount of copper contact, stripping out the heavier compounds and leaving a delicate style of newmake. Finally, more unpeated and lightly peated barley is utilised at Miyagikyo, with the majority imported from Scotland. Although it's not stated, 'Malty & Soft' is likely to be a mix of refill Bourbon and refill sherry casked whiskies allowing the fruity distillate to take centre stage.
Other reviews... Never had the ‘Malty & Soft’ before, neither at 12 or with NAS. Colour: pale gold. Nose: rather in the style of the regular NAS, just even greener and almost acidic. I find it profound, and always love these very sharp, very well chiselled styles. Lemon and clay infused in strong green tea. Or there, old stone teapot. With water: lovely. Barley, clean mud, pomelos juice. Yes you may squeeze pomelos. Mouth (neat): really sharp, starting lemony, with green oranges as well, and then more sweet barley (syrup) and a slightly prickly pepper – which I do not hate at all (?) With water: gets a tad rounder and fruitier (peaches) but also grassier. Same Sauvignony kind of profile. Finish: long and millimetric, which is no oxymoron. A narrow malt that’s excellent. Comments: at times, there are echoes of Clynelish. 87 points - whiskyfun.com

Delivery Information
- Discontinued
- Reduced
Nikka Miyagikyo Sherry & Sweet Single Malt Japanese Whisky (500ml)

JAPAN

Reduced from $350.00
$199. 99
Bottle
$2399.88 Dozen

ABV: 55%

One of three high-strength editions labelled as "Distillery Limited" and originally available via the distillery only. Readers may remember Miyagikyo making headlines in September 2015 when they discontinued their entire range due to stock shortages caused by an unprecedented boom in Japanese whisky. The label returned to market with a single NAS expression. Since then it's been the only official release that's readily available - anything else comes from the secondary market or the distillery direct. If you've been wanting to up the ante and get closer to the 'real' taste of 100% Japanese whisky with no imported additives, this is a perfect opportunity. The 'Key Malts' series lands at a uniform 55% which is considered close enough to cask strength. At the time of writing, prices vary dramatically. In Australia, it's not unusual to pay $350 plus (if you can find them).
Miyagikyo is Nikka’s second distillery, opening in 1969. Some commentators still refer to it as Sendai, which was its name before Asahi took control of Nikka in 2001. Founder, Masataka Taketsuru's intention was to expand the variety of malts available for his blends, so from the outset, the aim was to build the polar opposite of Yoichi. He sited Miyagikyo partly because the Hirosegawa and Nikkagawa rivers deliver a high-quality water supply. That combined with Miyagikyo’s different natural environment and the use of steam heat distillation, as opposed to coal and direct flame, results in a malt with a relatively mild and fruity character compared to the more powerful style of its sister distillery. Pot stills at Miyagikyo are considerably bigger too, and include boil balls along with an upward sloping lyne arm. This all contributes to a considerable amount of copper contact, stripping out the heavier compounds and leaving a delicate style of newmake. Finally, more unpeated and lightly peated barley is utilised at Miyagikyo, with the majority imported from Scotland. This edition is named for the exclusive use of sherry casks during maturation. Expect aromas and flavours of raisins, plums and sweet spice.
Other reviews... In general, the Japanese sherried whiskies don’t do things by half, but this one’s not very dark, let’s see… Colour: deep gold. Nose: bang, the same massive box of used matches as in the Yoichi in the same series. And there’s a lot of gunpowder too, so I think we could safely use the S word here. Behind this thick wall, some walnuts, mentholated tobacco, and perhaps dried porcinis. With water: mead and gunpowder. I know, sounds like the title of a mid-1960s spaghetti western. Mouth (neat): indeed, it reminds of the Yoichi. Unusual notes of burnt caramel, maraschino, and simply burnt cake. Some bitter notes of, well, bitter walnuts and bitter almonds. Not the easiest Miyagikyo ever. With water: it’s complicated. Finish: long, and it’s still quite complicated. Comments: not a fan of this one. Not for pacifists, there’s too much gunpowder for them. 77 points - whiskyfun.com

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Nikka Yoichi Grande Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

JAPAN

$399. 00
Bottle
$4788.00 Dozen

ABV: 48%

Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product not pictured.
This recent, limited release from Nikka has been produced to exemplify the qualities of the distillery it was made in. Expect this to be a larger whisky and have more emphasis on the regular Yoichi's smoke and wood characters. The travel exclusive Discovery Series from Nikka also has a truer version of the Miyagikyo single malt.

Delivery Information
- 88
- Nick's Import
- Not gift boxed
Nikka Tailored Premium Blended Japanese Whisky (700ml)

JAPAN

$230. 00
Bottle
$2760.00 Dozen

ABV: 43%

Released in 2019 as the long-awaited replacement for the discontinued Nikka 12 year old. The packaging is similar, however the age statement is gone.
Other reviews... This was on course for super stardom... then that finish happened. The odd cask here with a sulphurous taint. Clean wine casks and this might have been on course for a very major award. 88.5 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2022

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Nikka Taketsuru Pure Malt 21 Year Old Blended Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml) - Cardboard Box

Hokkaido, JAPAN

$1199. 00
Bottle
$14388.00 Dozen

ABV: 43%

Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product not shown.
DISCONTINUED.
Following Suntory's lead, Nikka has discontinued its lines of extra-aged whiskies, with some reports that the shortage could last up to a decade before the taps are turned back on.
Nikka's range of blended, pure malt and single malt whiskies will be exciting new discoveries for any Whisky enthusiast. This 21 Year Old bottling is dedicated to the Father of the Japanese Whisky Industry, Masataka Taketsuru.
The tale of Masataka Taketsuru's life is of the same fabric legends are made of. Sent in 1918 as a young apprentice to Scotland by his Japanese employers to crack the secrets of whisky, he not only came back with that knowledge but also with Rita Taketsuru (nee Cowan), who went on playing a decisive role in the development of the Japanese Whisky industry. Thanks to her connection to Japanese high society, Masataka was able to finance the company that is now known as Nikka Whisky.This blend of malts is from the two Nikka distilleries, Yoichi and Miyagikyo.
Other reviews... A much more civilised and gracious offering than the 17 year old...Serious whisky for the serious whisky drinker. 88 points- Jim Murrays Whisky Bible 2014
World's Best Blended Malt Whisky at the 2010 World Whiskies Awards.

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Nikka Yoichi Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

Hokkaido, JAPAN

$159. 99
Bottle
$1919.88 Dozen

ABV: 45%

Back in 2015, Nikka announced they were discontinuing their age statement and No Age Statement (NAS) releases for the Yoichi and Miyagikyo labels and consolidating them into two new bottlings. These whiskies have now arrived in Australia. Two NAS versions that differ slightly to the previous versions now represent the entire portfolio. It was yet another move that triggered a buying rush. Reports have it that Tokyo is now pretty much out of age statement Japanese whiskies, unless you visit bars or auction houses.

Nikka's reasons for the radical new strategy are now familiar. They simply have no old stocks to sell.
Decades ago, both local and world demand for Japanese malts was low, so few barrels were being laid down for extended periods.

Stefan Van Eycken, writing for www.nonjatta.com explains "...there were years, at both Yoichi and Miyagikyo distillery, when the barrels laid down for maturation could be counted on the fingers of one hand. The ‘stock shortage’ is not an excuse or a PR stunt – it’s very real. Sources within Nikka have said that it is ‘likely’ that age-statement single malts will be brought back in 5 or 6 years’ time. No official statement to that effect has been made for the simple reason that doing so – in Japan – would be interpreted as a promise (which could come back to haunt them in 6 years’ time)."

The dropping of age statements doesn't always translate into a drop in quality. Early reviews for both new releases have been very positive. Evidently, Chief blender Tadashi Sakuma has risen to the challenge of creating a great assemblage from a restricted inventory.

Other reviews... Yoichi age statements are gone for now, but if the whisky stays this good, I can live with that. Black earthy peat, smoldering fires, a turned-out pocket of briny seashells, whole lime, lemon twist, sugared orange, ground ginger, and licorice. Silky smooth, with light, fruity sweetness developing into tangy Spangles, kiwi, and lime juice. The smoky peat is the weft woven through the fruit structure’s warp. The finish is insanely long: menthol, peat, and leather.
92 points - whiskyadvocate.com. Reviewed by: Jonny McCormick (Winter 2016)

Gamboge/flax/chardonnay color; unblemished clarity. In the first nosing passes I pick up all sorts of malty scents, from nougat to candied almond to malted milk balls to milk chocolate to maple; secondary whiffs after more aeration discover salted butter, lightly smoked, toasty aromas that are basically dry, but also nicely rounded and supple. Entry is savory, bittersweet, grainy, toasted bread-like, nutty; midpalate features a medium full texture that caresses the palate while the dry-leaning flavor profile highlights the malty grain and wood resins, especially the tannic acid which dries out the flavor so that by the finish it’s squeaky clean and tight. A really tasty, well-made malt.
Highly Recommended - spiritjournal.com

Delivery Information
Nikka Rare Old Super Blended Japanese Whisky (700ml)

JAPAN

$99. 99
Bottle
$1199.88 Dozen

ABV: 43%

World Whisky Awards Category Winner for Best Japanese Blend in 2015.
A long time best seller for Nikka and one of the company's classic brands, but almost never seen in Australia, the Super Nikka was introduced to the market in 1962. Despite being classified as a blend, it's reported to contain a high proportion of malt from the Yoichi and Miyagikyo distilleries.
Other reviews... Beautiful whisky which just sings a lilting malty refrain.
90.5 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2013
Quite youthful aromas of citrus fruit, sherry wood spices and a touch of smoke. The palate is mellow with some citrus and plenty of sherry wood spices. Quite balanced with a good citrus complexity and a slightly smoky finish. Water brings out a floral orange Muscat note, whilst on the palate it brings out some vanilla nuances. - World Whisky Awards Category Winner 2015
"Opulent and gently peaty with the essence of aged sherry casks, this whisky goes down smooth with a well-rounded and balanced flavor" - ISC 2008 Gold Medal winner.

Delivery Information
Nikka Miyagikyo Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

Sendai, JAPAN

$154. 99
Bottle
$1859.88 Dozen

ABV: 45%

"One for no age statement naysayers... Eloquent & beautiful."
- whiskyadvocate.com

Back in 2015, Nikka announced they were discontinuing their age statement and No Age Statement (NAS) releases for the Yoichi and Miyagikyo labels and consolidating them into two new bottlings. These whiskies have now arrived in Australia. Two NAS versions that differ slightly to the previous versions now represent the entire portfolio. It was yet another move that triggered a buying rush. Reports have it that Tokyo is now pretty much out of age statement Japanese whiskies, unless you visit bars or auction houses.
Nikka's reasons for the radical new strategy are now familiar. They simply have no old stocks to sell.
Decades ago, both local and world demand for Japanese malts was low, so few barrels were being laid down for extended periods.
Stefan Van Eycken, writing for www.nonjatta.com explains "...there were years, at both Yoichi and Miyagikyo distillery, when the barrels laid down for maturation could be counted on the fingers of one hand. The ‘stock shortage’ is not an excuse or a PR stunt – it’s very real. Sources within Nikka have said that it is ‘likely’ that age-statement single malts will be brought back in 5 or 6 years’ time. No official statement to that effect has been made for the simple reason that doing so – in Japan – would be interpreted as a promise (which could come back to haunt them in 6 years’ time)."

The dropping of age statements doesn't always translate into a drop in quality. Early reviews for both releases have been very positive. Evidently, Chief blender Tadashi Sakuma has risen to the challenge of creating a great assemblage from a restricted inventory.

Other reviews... One for no age statement naysayers. An eloquent expression of sweet osmanthus, baked lemon, yuzu, violin resin, rich malts, and bonfire aromas on a favorite woolen jumper. It glides across the tongue with sweet barley sugar, but attests to greater depths; grapefruit, spicy ginger, and mandarin developing milk chocolate-coated, candied lemon flavors. A firm finish: green cardamom spices slowly releasing their grip on the front of the palate, leaving clingy vanilla. Unbound by an age statement, it’s a beautiful offering. 88 points - whiskyadvocate.com, reviewed by: Jonny McCormick (Winter 2016)
...Marigold/deep straw color; superb purity. Immediate smells after the pour are grainy, malty, and like brown rice, with background touches of baking spices (allspice, mace), tofu, and soy sauce; secondary inhalations encounter “greener”, more vegetal aromas that eclipse the baking spices. Entry is subtle, keenly spicy (the baking spices make a big return), desert dry, and moderately malty; midpalate features a delightfully and satisfying crisp flavor profile that borders on being astringent and edgy as the maltiness merges nicely with the resiny oak, providing a tightly focused taste experience that’s clean and intensely grainy. Finishes a little too short, deeply malty, and even now a touch peppery. Had the aftertaste not dropped off too abruptly, I’d have given this single malt a fifth rating star. It has a lot going for it.
Highly Recommended - www.spiritjournal.com

Delivery Information
- Packaging may vary
Nikka Taketsuru Pure Malt Blended Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

JAPAN

$149. 99
Bottle
$1799.88 Dozen

ABV: 43%

Lots of very warm reviews on the blogoshere for this no-age-statement expression of Nikka which reportedly over-delivers for an entry level whisky. Named after the company's founder, Masataka Taketsuru, and aged on average for around 10 years, it includes whiskies from the Miyagikyo & Yoichi distilleries, including malt matured in Sherry casks.
Other reviews... The luxe aroma mixes rich butterscotch and apple sweetness. On the palate, this whisky is light and gentle, interspersing fruit and smoke and finishing with a spark of cinnamon heat. Add a splash of water; recommended for sipping. 43% Alc./Vol.
93 points - wineenthusiast.com
Bright gold color. Lively, attractive aromas of leather, cedar, sautéed almonds, and raisins with a silky, crisp, dry-yet-fruity medium body and a tingling, long dried fruits, minerals, honeyed tea, and salted caramelized nuts finish. A superb and evolving whisky for thoughtful contemplative sipping.
94 points - tastings.com

Delivery Information
- Packaging may vary
Nikka Taketsuru Pure Malt 17 Year Old Blended Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

Hokkaido, JAPAN

$699. 00
Bottle
$8388.00 Dozen

ABV: 43%

Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some light creasing/scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product not pictured.
DISCONTINUED.
Following Suntory's lead, Nikka has discontinued its lines of extra-aged whiskies, with some reports that the shortage could last up to a decade before the taps are turned back on.
Winner World's Best Blended Malt at the 2018 World Whisky Awards.
Nikka's range of blended, pure malt and single malt whiskies will be exciting new discoveries for any Whisky enthusiast. This now discontinued 17 Year Old bottling is dedicated to the Father of the Japanese Whisky Industry, Masataka Taketsuru.
The tale of Taketsuru's life is of the same fabric legends are made of. Sent in 1918 as young apprentice to Scotland by his Japanese employers to crack the secrets of Whisky, he not only came back with that knowledge but also with Rita Taketsuru (nee Cowan), who went on playing a decisive role in the development of the Japanese Whisky industry. Thanks to her connection to Japanese high society, Masataka was able to finance the company that is now known as Nikka Whisky. Forward a century later, Taketsuru 17 yo is awarded the Best Blended Whisky at the World Whisky awards 2012 and 2018, a fitting crown for this blend of Malts from the two Nikka distilleries, Yoichi and Miyagikyo.
Other reviews... Firm oak, but compromises sufficiently to allow several layers of malt to battle through with a touch of peat-coffee. Massive, a toasted, honeyed front gives way to really intense and complex malt notes. Superb finish. some late marmalade arrives from somewhere, the toast is slightly burnt but the waves of malty complexity are endless. Not a whisky for the squeamish. This is big stuff – about as big as it gets without peat or rye. No bar shelf or whisky club should be without this one. 43% Alc./Vol.
89 points - Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible - 2009

Delivery Information
Nikka Taketsuru Pure Malt 12 Year Old Blended Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

JAPAN

$499. 00
Bottle
$5988.00 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.
The 12 year old blended malt sourced from two of Nikka's distilleries, Yoichi and Miyagikyo, named after the company's founder, Masataka Taketsuru. An NAS (no age statement) Taketsuru bottling has recently been released (2016) in Australia at an increased price.
Other reviews... “At last!” they cry. Anchor Distilling is bringing in whiskies from Nikka. I taunted you with the first of the initial brace in 2010, the exemplary Yoichi 15 year old (a hefty 95 points). The second is the firm’s vatted malt, Taketsuru 12 year old. A mix of Yoichi and Miyagikyo distillates, it is the latter which is to the fore here: a honey-laden mix of cut flowers, persimmon, vanilla, and apple. More are on their way. 81 points
- www.maltadvocate.com (Vol. 22, #1) Reviewed by: Dave Broom
...the nose may be mollassed, sticky treacle pudding, but it spices up on the palate.
84 points - Jim Murrays Whisky Bible 2014

Delivery Information
- 93
- 96
- 89
- Reduced
Nikka Coffey Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

JAPAN

Reduced from $139.99
$124. 99
Bottle
$1499.88 Dozen

ABV: 45%

Jim Murray's Japanese Whisky of the Year 2018.
Yet another first for Australia - Nikka decided to add their Coffey Malt to their core portfolio in 2014. It completes the Coffey range, originally launched in September 2012 with the Nikka Coffey Grain. Each offers insight into the whiskies that constitute the base of Nikka’s blends. This edition is produced from 100% malt, though technically it's not a single malt due to its distillation in Coffey stills (Nikka imported two from Scotland in 1963). Scheduled as a European exclusive, we're very fortunate to have received a tiny quantity into Australia.
Tasting note: Brilliant deep gold colour. Semi-sweet aromas of creamy soda, creme caramel, vanilla bean and shortbread followed by flavours of butter menthol lozenge, cream biscuits and an ultra pure, high pitch vanilla bean, dried coconut finish that maintains excellent sweet/dry balance. Creamy soda and bounty bar aftertaste. A gorgeous, one of a kind, melt in your mouth malt that's a must try. 45% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... Now a hugely welcome part of the core range, this whisky—made in Coffey stills at the Miyagikyo distillery—uses 100% malted barley as its base. The nose is all tinned peach, tropical fruit juice, and baked banana, with a surprising green celery note, coconut, and sherbet. The palate is silky, with some chocolate, biscuity oak, and orange blossom honey. Water brings those green notes forward to add freshness to the peach cobbler sweetness. The grain revolution builds. 45% Alc./Vol.
89 points - whiskyadvocate.com, (Fall 2014) Reviewed by: Dave Broom

Delivery Information
- Discontinued
- Reduced
Nikka Yoichi Sherry & Sweet Single Malt Japanese Whisky (500ml)

JAPAN

Reduced from $350.00
$199. 99
Bottle
$2399.88 Dozen

ABV: 55%

As the name suggests, a high proportion of sherry casks are used in this expression. Expect intense aromas and flavours of raisins, plums.
Other reviews... Well, sherry shouldn’t be sweet, but I’m digressing… Liked the older 12 quite a lot back in ’09 (WF 84). Colour: deep gold. Nose: praline, rubber, and indeed, a little sulphur. Walnuts and used matches hold together in an old leather pouch, or something like that. Frankly, I didn’t expect this much sulphur in a Yoichi. With water: struck matches and gunpowder all over the place. Mouth (neat): ah, no, this works very well. Burnt orange cake, cooked honey sauce, candied angelica, cherry liqueur, a drop of yellow chartreuse… It’s quite different from your usual sherried malt, perhaps more candied? Nice feeling. No sulphur that I can detect on the palate. With water: very good. Burnt raisins on a burnt kougelhopf. Yes, a Proust’s madeleine. Finish: quite long, beautifully raisiny, with orange zests and just a touch of clove. Comments: yeah go score this. If you hate sulphur in the nose, say 70. If you don’t care, that’ll rather be, say 86 or even 87. Good, say 80 altogether. Oh those scores!
80 points - Serge Valentin, whiskyfun.com

Delivery Information
- Discontinued
- Reduced
Nikka Yoichi Peaty & Salty Single Malt Japanese Whisky (500ml)

JAPAN

Reduced from $350.00
$199. 99
Bottle
$2399.88 Dozen

ABV: 55%

Yoichi was set up by founder, Masataka Taketsuru on Japan's northern most island after he left Suntory in 1934. He chose Hokkaido because the climatic conditions reminded him of Scotland where he’d first studied whisky making. The house style is typically rich, peaty and masculine, acquiring a distinct aroma and body from direct heated distillation using a finely powdered coal - a traditional method that's hardly used today, even in Scotland. Usually only sold at the distillery, this one's named for the high proportion of peated whiskies used in its creation. Weighing in at 55% Alc./Vol., it should also be quite intense.
Other reviews... Liked the older 12 a lot. Colour: gold. Nose: bizarrely, it’s rather the shiest among them three. A rather round peat, say young Caol Ila ex-rejuvenated barrel or something. I know, a shortcut. Whiffs of iodine, cough medicine, almonds, oysters… With water: no, rather a soft Talisker. Mouth (neat): sweet peat! Lou Reed could have written a song about it. Oranges and grapefruits, as sweets and as fresh juices, plus brine and green pepper, as well as a large teapot of lapsang souchong. With water: same. It’s one of the easiest peaters I’ve tried this year (we’re in 2017, am I not right?) Finish: medium, easy, uncomplicated, perhaps a wee tad cardboardy? There is some salt(iness) but not much. Comments: perhaps does it mimic the Scottish peaters a little too much? But yeah, it’s good and flawless.
83 points - Serge Valentin, whiskyfun.com

Delivery Information
Nikka Gold & Gold Samurai Armour & Helmet Blended Japanese Whisky (750ml) - Earlier Metallic Version

Hokkaido, JAPAN

$299. 00
Bottle
$3588.00 Dozen

ABV: 43%

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

Little information can be found on these highly decorative Nikkas, however we speculate Nikka began production of these bottlings in the late 1970s, consistent with the trend of the time for 'novelty' bottle shapes. Production has continued to this day with Nikka supplying this edition only to the Japanese Duty Free market. Replete with Samurai armour and helmet top, it makes for quite a bar trophy. 43% Alc./Vol.

Delivery Information
- Discontinued
- Reduced
Nikka Yoichi Woody & Vanillic Single Malt Japanese Whisky (500ml)

JAPAN

Reduced from $350.00
$199. 99
Bottle
$2399.88 Dozen

ABV: 55%

Nikka's Yoichi distillery on Japan's northern most island released these annual editions which have been notoriously hard to find. Usually only sold at the distillery, this one's named for the high proportion of Bourbon casks used in its maturation, so expect aromas and flavours American oak and a hint of vanilla.
Other reviews... Only WF 78 back in 2009, but that was the earlier 12 yo. Right, and that was 2009. Colour: deep gold. Nose: varnish, cellulose, vanilla, nail polish, sawdust… Quick, water! Although it seems that there’s some quince, always a hit at WF Towers. With water: good fruit syrup, vanilla, and cake crumbles. Some kind of breakfasty recipe, perhaps (we don’t do bacon in France!) Mouth (neat): my, this is barley syrup! But I quite enjoy this feisty mix, with coconut sweets, custard, candyfloss, and of course a lot of vanilla. Marzipan and macaroons, plus pineapples. Some similarities with the regular NAS. With water: a little simple, but more than good. Vanilla and oranges this time, with a mentholy background. Finish: medium, rounded, rather on maple syrup. Comments: excellent albeit a little ‘elementary’. But I guess that was the whole point in the first place. Very little peat this time, if any.
84 points - Serge Valentin, whiskyfun.com

Delivery Information
Paul John Christmas Edition 2023 Single Malt Indian Whisky (700ml)

INDIA

$110. 00
Bottle
$1320.00 Dozen

ABV: 46%

John distilleries have created a special Christmas edition every year since 2018. The sixth incarnation sees an unpeated malt matured in ex-bourbon barrels, finished in a single vintage Colheita Tawny Port cask. Once again, the distillery has aimed for a rich, exuberantly fruity expression to make Christmas all the merrier! 46% Alc./Vol.
Notes from the producers... Nose: Delectable aromas of creamy vanilla custard with a dash of dark chocolate enhanced with rich dry fruits. Palate: Deep flavours of sweet oak, a delicate mocha laced with warm caramel, succulent vanilla and hints of soft spice. Finish: Rich, exuberantly fruity and deliciously lingering.

Delivery Information
- Reduced
Paul John Christmas Edition 2022 Single Malt Indian Whisky (700ml)

INDIA

Reduced from $110.00
$84. 99
Bottle
$1019.88 Dozen

ABV: 46%

Crafted from malts finished in ex-bourbon, brandy and peated Oloroso casks, this is the 5th Edition of the limited Christmas Edition series from the award-winning distillery. 46% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... Can a whiskey taste like Christmas? What would that mean, anyway—pine needles, peppermint, reindeer dung and cheer? Indian distillery Paul John’s new 2022 Christmas Edition single malt tastes like none of that, thankfully, but it does actually sip like a holiday whisky—which is an impressive feat. A little background on the distillery first—Paul John is located in Goa on India’s west coast, and is one of the better known brands in the rising tide of Indian single malt whisky. The climate there is tropical and humid, meaning the whisky matures faster. To be precise, that means the liquid interacts with the barrels more kinetically than in a cooler, milder climate like Scotland or Ireland, but more so than in Kentucky which cools down quite a bit in the winter. The whisky is distilled from six-row barley and matured onsite, with a high angel’s share of eight to ten percent as opposed to Kentucky’s four or five percent. There are many different expressions available from Paul John to try, and this is the fifth installment of the Christmas Edition... It’s easy to get caught up in the holiday spirit and envision this as having Christmasy flavors because of the packaging, marketing and power of suggestion. That being said, check out these tasting notes (and hopefully the actual whisky) and see what you think. The nose starts out with figgy, malty aromas, along with some fresh wood and a bit of licorice. There’s also a whiff of fireplace smoke in the background, perhaps from that whisper of peat. On the palate, there’s fruit cake (in a good way), cinnamon, raisin and—stick with me here—a tiny hint of candy cane peppermint. On the finish, there’s some dark syrupy berries, caramel, and a soupçon of savory jus. That’s Christmas apps, dinner and dessert all in one sip. - robbreport.com
Notes from the producers... Nose: Rich aromas of sweet oak, dry spice, baked apples and peaches, enhanced with dark chocolate. Palate: Soft and sweet flavours of mellow peat, orange dark chocolate, and a light peppery spice laced with delicious plum cake and butterscotch.
Finish: Deep, creamy and lingering with a profuse hazelnut laced with dark chocolate.

Delivery Information
- 91
- 90
- Reduced
Paul John Pedro Ximenez Select Cask Single Malt Indian Whisky (700ml)

INDIA

Reduced from $170.00
$140. 00
Bottle
$1680.00 Dozen

ABV: 48%

For their Select Cask series, Paul John in Goa has created a pair of malts finished in different sherry casks. This particular edition was allowed a period in Pedro Ximénez casks, so if you like the thought of dried fruits mixed in with some cakey notes, you should find plenty to like here - starting with the bouquet. Packed with dried peels, raisins, fruit slice and dark chocolate, the palate shares the same appealing bittersweet quality (it's not as sweet as you might anticipate). Fruit mince pie, tangy peels and ginger bread are the keynotes through to the cocoa-laced aftertaste. Trace sulphur too. Adding water tends to flatten the profile, so this is one whisky where its qualities are best uncut. The high ABV boosts the bang for your buck. 48% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.
Other reviews... Enjoyable with a truly brilliant delivery. But not showing the true subtlety and colours of PJ's excellent malt. 90.5 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2022

Delivery Information
- 92
- Reduced
Paul John Oloroso Select Cask Single Malt Indian Whisky (700ml)

INDIA

Reduced from $170.00
$140. 00
Bottle
$1680.00 Dozen

ABV: 48%

As a sound introduction to the Oloroso matured genre, this is hard to beat. The sherry character comes through in high definition - especially on the palate with intense flavours of walnut and date cake, mixed nuts and dried fruits while tangy Seville orange and vibrant spices lift the finish. Cocoa, salted hazelnuts, new leather and drying astringency follow in the aftertaste. It could be better integrated, but it fares well against many more expensive Scottish equivalents. High ABV and zero chill filtration is an added bonus. 48% Alc./Vol.
Notes from the producers... Taste :Soft and sweet, with nutty chocolate and Melton Hunt cake. Finish :Long, intense and sweet with delicious heavy spices imbibed from the Oloroso casks, a dash of coffee mocha and sumptuous dark chocolate. Balance :An intense and a complex single malt with a sensational explosion of incredible flavours. 48% Alc./Vol.

Delivery Information
Paul John Nirvana Single Malt Indian Whisky (700ml)

INDIA

$74. 99
Bottle
$899.88 Dozen

ABV: 40%

Following the lead of Asian whisky brands like Nikka and Kavalan, Paul John have created an entry level whisky at an even more affordable price point than their core range. This one's an unpeated expression, made from Indian six-row barley and matured in 2nd and 3rd fill American oak casks for around three years.

Notes from the producers... Nose: An attractive honeycombed bourbon with luscious fruitcake, with a light whiff of enticing caramel pudding. Taste: A delightful soft honey with a slight salt-edged barley; an excellent mouthfeel with honeycomb sweetness. Finish: Immensely long, and richly flavoured with dissolving honey, barley, and succulent vanilla. Balance: A joyous barley plays intricately with high quality oak, that offers a dash of true goan pleasure! 40% Alc./Vol.

Delivery Information
- 91
- 94
Paul John Brilliance Single Malt Indian Whisky (700ml)

INDIA

$94. 99
Bottle
$1139.88 Dozen

ABV: 46%

"Yet another astonishing malt from India."
94.5 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2021

Paul John ‘Brilliance’ is the first in the range. An un-peated malt matured in ex-bourbon casks. The second is ‘Edited’ with about 20% of the malt being peated Scottish, and again, matured in ex-bourbon American oak casks. Both are non chill-filtered.

Tasting note: Polished copper. Offers up fruity malt, hints of ginger bread, light cinnamon and vanilla. Similar in many ways to "Edited" but with the oak adding firmness and drying the mid-palate. Fresh and lightly spiced delivery; some nice fruit'n'nut chocolate characteristics feature amid the juicy malt. Excellent balance. 46% Alc./Vol

Other reviews... Paul John is taking its entry into the world of single malt very seriously, and very slowly but surely. After two single cask offerings to find its range, Brilliance and Edited are its first general releases. Brilliance is unpeated and is a delight: rich, full, young but not immature, and with lime and citrus Starburst chews, sweet candy, and some icing sugar, it trips across the palate. Conclusive proof that Amrut isn’t the only Indian game in town. 88 points - whiskyadvocate.com (Fall 2013) Reviewed by: Dominic Roskrow

DOUBLE GOLD - 2018 San Francisco World Spirits Competition

Delivery Information
- 94
- 94
Paul John Select Cask Classic Cask Strength Single Malt Indian Whisky (700ml)

INDIA

$130. 00
Bottle
$1560.00 Dozen

ABV: 55.2%

"One of those whiskies that just overflows with flavour. Delicious!"
- 94.5 points. Jim Murray's Whisky Bible.
Paul John's cask strength variations are sold under his "Select Cask" label. The quality is fabulous - so are the prices. We recommend tasting both straight before adding a tiny amount of water (literally a few drops) in order to get the most out of them. The Classic is a little prickly in the opening sniffs including notes of pepper, honey and sponge cake and a mildly acidic volatility; five minutes softens the bouquet considerably and draws out a superb fruity core of peach, light vanilla and dried coconut. Intense, peppery entry; coats the tongue with a slow-motion wave of spicy, semi-sweet, bristling malt. Finish is mildly bittersweet with warming spirit heat, plus vanilla oak input and hints of biscotti; late fruitiness and tingly peppers carrying the aftertaste. Non chill filtered. 55.2.% Alc./vol.
Other reviews.... One of those whiskies that just overflows with flavour. Delicious! 94.5 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2021
...Sticky, spiced-coconut desserts, grapefruit, clove, allspice, and crispy bacon on the nose of this NAS whisky matured in bourbon casks. Sharp with lime, grapefruit, and lemon zest that settle down to green fruits, Jell-O, and dry spices. Do dilute, as water lets the spices leap from the glass, strips down the acidic attack, and accentuates the fresh apple and cinnamon. It doesn’t need much water, but it’s eminently better with a dash. 84 points
- whiskyadvocate.com (Summer 2015) Reviewed by: Jonny McCormick

Delivery Information
- 92
- 95
Paul John Bold Peated Single Malt Indian Whisky (700ml)

INDIA

$94. 99
Bottle
$1139.88 Dozen

ABV: 46%

Tasting note: Bold, but not as overtly peaty as the name might suggest. Gentle puffs of smoke come between the honey-soaked barley, giving a Highland Park-esque feel to the nose. Full, vaguely fruity, superbly weighted, effervescent malt - the phenols glaze over the barley rather than smother it. No shortage of flavour. At the finish, an earthy, farmyard-like character is accented, the peat taking on a lanolin-like aspect through the final stages. 46% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

Other reviews... the smoke tries to rule the roost but is not allowed to....melt in the mouth malt: a silky delivery- what else do expect from India? - is shaped again by oak-studded honey... one of the most weighty and chewable Indian whiskies of all time - yet it is not just about peat. So many elements to this, you expect a bottle to weigh the equivalent of a block of lead. This truly great whisky, so complex and absorbing, needs a good 20 minutes of your time to adequately explore.
95.5 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2016

Delivery Information
- 96
- 96
Paul John Select Cask Peated Cask Strength Single Malt Indian Whisky (700ml)

INDIA

$130. 00
Bottle
$1560.00 Dozen

ABV: 55.5%

Fans of all things peaty will find this difficult to resist. Not only brilliant whisky, but a new bargain in its genre.
Located in the tourist region of Goa, John Distilleries have been producing huge volumes of blended whisky since 1992. Original Choice, one of their top brands, sells over one million cases a month. The Distillery entered the single malt scene in 2008 as a ‘pet project’ that like Amrut before it, has quickly gained world wide attention. Distiller Michael John employs local ingredients, although, the peated releases source peated malt from Scotland. The maturation periods in India are reminiscent of those in many Australian distilleries. After only three years, a hogshead has 150 bottles left in it (compared to around 350 in a Scottish equivalent). Not surprising given that the average temperature in Goa is around 31 degrees celsius.
Paul John's cask strength variations are sold under his "Select Cask" label. The quality is fabulous - so are the prices. We recommend tasting both straight before adding a tiny amount of water (literally a few drops) in order to get the most out of them. The Peated starts out with a lovely sweet, cocoa edge to the bouquet; second pass finds wet wool and barley sugar combining to great effect. Further aeration highlights oatmeal and honey interchanging with earthy peat. A farmyardy aspect follows as lucerne mulch and hints of manure, and later still, cough lozenge and faint citrus. Mouthwatering, sweet entry leads into a superbly integrated, concentrated, peppery profile; Winds up with with Fisherman's friend, liquorice root, dried fig and salivating, creamy malt. Peat lingers in the fade. Complex, poised and powerful, this precocious effort seems to only get better each time you taste it - fans of all things peaty will find it difficult to resist. Not only brilliant whisky, but a new bargain in its genre. 55.5% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... A peated malt whisky which will make a few people sit up and take even further notice of Indian Whisky. World class. 96 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2021
Peat, biscuit, fir tree sap, oil and fruit cake, a tightly woven fabric, smoke pumped through a mesh of sweet, rich, alcohol sodden raisin. All power to the black fruit bomb. A mouth filling whopper of a whisky, the smoke riding the sweet as it billows up and back, the finish is ever so long, a fragment of cinnamon tempering the sugar. It’s Christmas less the glitz. It’s a winter love bomb, a mulled beauty, a deep and hearted pagan of a drink. Category Winner - worldwhiskiesawards.com
...Earthy notes, with plain chocolate nibs, malt drinks, and a little leather. There’s a subtle smoky air; nothing too astringent or overpowering. It’s great to try if you’re new to peaty whiskies or were put off by a peat colossus from Islay. Fig, plums, and soft prunes, though it’s mouth-puckering neat, so cut it down. Then, the fruit rounds out beautifully, allowing some gentle spices to shine through with some coffee bean notes at the end. Terrific stuff. 88 points - whiskyadvocate.com (Summer 2015) Reviewed by: Jonny McCormick

Delivery Information
- 92
- 96
Paul John Edited Single Malt Indian Whisky (700ml)

INDIA

$94. 99
Bottle
$1139.88 Dozen

ABV: 46%

"A new Indian Classic...Sublime. To be talked about with reverence without doubt." 96.5 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2020
Edited is the medium peated version of Paul John. Polished copper. Rock candy, brittle malt with later hints of peppermint contributing freshness. Later toffee apple? Supple and well rounded in the mouth; nicely balanced with an almost fleshy texture with flavours of dried fruits and plush malt underscored by gentle spices. Good length. 46% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews...... The whisky is once more intense and fruity but this time it plays off against a more herbal green apple note, smoke from the hearth, and a touch of spice. There’s also cinnamon—which is fast becoming a house style. Encouraging stuff.
86 points - whiskyadvocate.com (Fall 2013) Reviewed by: Dominic Roskrow
4.5 Stars - diffordsguide.com

Delivery Information
- 93
Penderyn 18 Year Old Red Wine Cask Finish Single Cask Single Malt Welsh Whisky (700ml) - Australian Exclusive

WALES

$280. 00
Bottle
$3360.00 Dozen

ABV: 50%

The term 'Sherry bomb' is sometimes flaunted when talking about a whisky drawn from a super-active cask. In the same way, what we have here could well be described as a 'Shiraz bomb'. The deepest, darkest Penderyn we've ever encountered due to long aging and a finishing in red wine casks from Bullers in Rutherglen, it fuses Penderyn's seductive malt with stewed red fruits, wine tannins and a spicy finish mixing dried coconut, cocoa and lingering red berry notes. Tasting a bit like the whisky equivalent of Lamingtons, or perhaps fruit mince pies, it's exclusively bottled for the Australian importers with a yield of 157 bottles, trumping last year's 17 year old as the oldest release to date from the distillery. 50% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered. Tasted from a 40ml sample.
Notes from the importers... Nose: Rich blackberries and blackcurrants, gooseberries, ripe cherries. Dried fruits: prunes, sultanas and figs. Salted caramel and demerara sugar. Taste: Dark fruits: black grapes and black cherries, oak tannin dryness and cocoa bitterness. Vanilla, tingling spices of black pepper, nutmeg and a black coffee hint. Finish: Dark fruits fading into bitter dark chocolate with notes of clove and black pepper.

Delivery Information
- 95
- Reduced
Penderyn 6 Year Old Ex-Tawny Port Cask Matured Single Cask PT266 Cask Strength Single Malt Welsh Whisky (700ml)

WALES

Reduced from $250.00
$199. 00
Bottle
$2388.00 Dozen

ABV: 60.5%

"If James Bond wants his dry Martinis made with whisky, I suspect this would be his choice." - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2022
This beautiful rose-tinted Penderyn was matured in ex-Tawny Port cask #PT266 yielding 724 bottles at cask strength (60.5% abv). It was the first time Penderyn offered such a cask to the European market (previously we believe they'd been reserved for export). Distilled in June 2013 and bottled in 2019, we've stumbled across a handful of cases that were lost in the supplier's warehouse. They represent part of a small consignment of large Portuguese port pipes sourced by Penderyn, but this particular barrel was extremely old, probably having held wine for decades before reaching the distillery, and it reads like an alpha barrel. Jim Murray has ranked it as one of the best Penderyns to date in his 2022 Bible. This kind of wine input typically infuses aromas and flavours of black grapes, fresh plums, figs and red berries. They'll be set against drier, nutty oak and peppery spices. Very limited stocks. Non chill filtered.
Other reviews... Wonderfully dry and sophisticated with the grape skin as close to concentrated as you'll ever find; such precision to the cask, such concentration needed to work out the spellbinding layering, you'll need to mop your brow as you concentrate. Most amazing is how the malt forms thin, delicate stratum among the much more intense fruit tones. The sugars, after their initial burst of acacia honey, are on ration and it is the spiced dryness of the fruit which dominates.... but that fragile malt ensures the salty plum and grape skins don't get all their own way; I'd say the spice fade on this must be nudging perfection. The fruits fatten at last, briefly, before going back into their skinny shell... If James Bond wants his dry Martinis made with whisky, I suspect this would be his choice. 95 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2022

Delivery Information
- 92
Penderyn Portwood Single Malt Welsh Whisky (700ml)

WALES

$180. 00
Bottle
$2160.00 Dozen

ABV: 46%

Note: Due to the gift box design these 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 scuffing/bruising or rips in the cardboard/handling marks.
A big seller in France and one of the more full-bodied expressions Penderyn offers, this fruit'n'nut chocolate affair has a soft, rounded mouthfeel, light red berry character and a fresh, vibrant finish. A significant step up from the 41% bottlings, the extra ABV gives Penderyn a confident stride. It also demonstrates why they continue with Port maturations. The fruity wine influence clearly compliments the distillate's slightly tropical style. 46% Alc./Vol Non chill filtered.
Other reviews... Subtle, well-judged port cask influence integrates well with the Penderyn spirit to produce an entrancing whisky. Substantial aromas of chocolate, dried fruits, dates, cocoa, snuff, and a prickle of spices rise from the glass. There’s good weight in the mouth, with flavors of chocolate, gingersnap, dates, dried cranberry, forest honey, a supportive chorus of spices, and a heavenly finish of dark sweet fruits.
91 points - whiskyadvocate.com, reviewed by: Jonny McCormick (Winter 2019)
Gold 2020 San Francisco World Spirits Competition
Gold 2019 Whiskies of the World (Best in Class)
Gold 2019 IWSC Worldwide Whiskies

Delivery Information
Pokeno Single Cask Virgin Cask Finish Single Malt New Zealand Whisky (700ml)

NEW ZEALAND

$180. 00
Bottle
$2160.00 Dozen

ABV: 46%

After a full maturation in a first-fill bourbon barrel, Pokeno have re-racked this edition into a virgin oak cask, built to specification using 36 month air-dried American oak. A light toast and char has enhanced the distillery's classic citrus and vanilla notes, adding hints of shortbread, toasted caramel and cocoa. 46% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

Delivery Information
Pokeno Exploration Series No. 02 Winter Malt Single Malt New Zealand Whisky (700ml)

NEW ZEALAND

$150. 00
Bottle
$1800.00 Dozen

ABV: 48%

Pokeno's Winter Edition was inspired by a unique selection of New Zealand malts: Manuka Smoked Malt, from a tree indigenous to New Zealand, offering a smooth, sweet smokiness; Chocolate Roasted Malt: Custom roasted to deliver a lovely coffee and chocolate aroma; Toffee Malt: roasted at very low temperatures and then caramelised to contribute honey and toffee flavours, and finally, the very sweet and floral Laureate Distiller's Malt: The combination was then aged in first-fill bourbon barrels before bottling as No.2 in the Exploration Series. 48% Alc./Vol.
Notes from the producers... On the nose there is sweet honied smoke, chocolate caramel slice, vanilla bean and toffee. In the mouth notes of bitter dark chocolate and cocoa beans, mingle beautifully with creamy fudge, for a long, sweet and smoky finish.

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Pokeno Exploration Series No. 03 Triple Distilled Single Malt New Zealand Whisky (700ml)

NEW ZEALAND

$150. 00
Bottle
$1800.00 Dozen

ABV: 49%

Fans of Irish whiskies will be familiar with the results of triple distillation. It helps to concentrate alcohol, but also helps to create lighter, more fruity flavours. Pokeno's new make is already incredibly sweet and smooth due to an extremely slow distillation which allows the maximum amount of reflux. Having only two stills, they performed two additional distillations in their 3600 litre still, each time taking a very small heart cut (approximately 20% of the run). These further distillations have "pushed the profile to the next level", while maturation in A-grade, first-fill bourbon barrels has capped off a wonderfully smooth, sweet and honeyed malt. For some tasters, this will be the pinnacle of the Exploration Series. 49% Alc./Vol.
Notes from the producers... On the nose there is rich honey and vanilla with hints of citrus and toffee. In the mouth rich vanilla bean and butterscotch mingle with notes of sweet citrus and a hint of pepper clove. There is a long rich finish.

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Pokeno Exploration Series No. 01 Totara Cask Finish Single Malt New Zealand Whisky (700ml)

NEW ZEALAND

$180. 00
Bottle
$2160.00 Dozen

ABV: 46%

New releases from Pokeno in the North Island of New Zealand have arrived. Already sold out at the distillery, this bottling represents the first in the 'Exploration' series and introduces the native Totara wood, the indigenous tree of Aotearoa. Historically, its hard, straight-grained timber has been used to build homes, carvings, weapons and containers for storing food. When used for maturing whisky, it imparts sweet, creamy notes. The team at Pokeno opted for 200 litre barrels that received a light toast and char. After maturation in first-fill bourbon casks, the whisky was finished in the Totara wood. Founder, Matt Johns describes the result as having a creamy coconut note with sweet-scented sap, ripe white peach and freshly cut wood. 46% Alc./Vol.

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Pokeno Single Cask PX Sherry Cask Finish Single Malt New Zealand Whisky (700ml)

NEW ZEALAND

$180. 00
Bottle
$2160.00 Dozen

ABV: 46%

This single cask offering from Pokeno comes in at a slightly higher ABV than the three core bottlings. After a full maturation in a first fill bourbon barrel, the whiskey was re-racked into a PX sherry butt from Miguel Martin for a period of 6 months. Expect rich notes of ripe cherries, Christmas cake and dark chocolate combined with hints of sweet citrus and vanilla. From an outturn of 880 bottles. 46% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.
Other reviews... This will be one of the better PX finishes I encounter this year. And for a three year old, I doubt if I'll experience better. 92 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2024

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- 92
- 88
Pokeno Origin Single Malt New Zealand Whisky (700ml)

NEW ZEALAND

$99. 99
Bottle
$1199.88 Dozen

ABV: 43%

The New Zealand scene has gone from just one distillery that closed in 1997 (Willowbank in Dunedin) to over ten small-scale and craft distillers. One new venture, nestled amongst the volcanic mountains and misty valleys of the Waikato region is a family-owned and operated passion project aiming to distill in the style of the finest Speyside malts. And with decades of whisky industry experience, Matthew Johns, who has been associated with some of the biggest names in the world of single malts has Pokeno right on track. Founded in 2017, it is already the largest single malt distillery in the country, handling all aspects of production on-site, including maturation and bottling. It even has its own cooperage. According to some tasters, what's coming out of barrel now resembles Japanese whisky, showing more delicacy than most Scotch, and zero peat. Four whiskies make up the current range. 'Origin' comes aged in ex-bourbon casks, making for a pure, light, breezy, well-rounded whisky with hints of honey drizzled fruits (think dried pear or cantaloupe), followed by suggestions of honey, cream and coconut chocolate through the medium-long finish. 43% Alc./vol. Non-chill filtered.
Other reviews... A nose of cereal bars, honey, flatbread crackers, peppercorn, cinnamon, shelled almonds, and dried grasses. It’s rounded, with good weight and texture, delivering honey, vanilla, apricot, light citrus, fudge, peppercorn, cinnamon, and oak char, with an actively spicy finish. Well-made and a great introductory malt, but this flavor profile positions it in pretty crowded territory, up against numerous similar-tasting bourbon cask-matured single malts. 88 points - whiskyadvocate.com
...most impressive is the cleanliness of the malt; this has been beautifully and carefully made. 92.5 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2024
...Matured in first-fill bourbon barrels. No age statements. A refreshing single malt, it could easily pass for a bourbon barrel-aged Scotch. Light, buttery grains and a pinch of citrus are evident on the fresh nose, and the same follow through on the palate. Almost coming across like a shortbread cookie, the creamy whisky showcases a slightly nutty character that evokes nougat, almond butter, coconut, and again some lemon extract, filtering into the finish. Bright as sunshine, it’s a perfect (if uncomplicated) aperitif. - drinkhacker.com

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Prieto y Prieta Maíz de Oaxaca Mexican Corn Whisky (750ml)

Oaxaca, MEXICO

$119. 99
Bottle
$1439.88 Dozen

ABV: 43%

Mexico has a long history of distilling but they're only just catching on to whisky, capitalising on the nation's sixty-four native varieties of corn. Mash bills are upwards of 70% corn, sometimes 100%, and the styles and production standards often reflect American whiskeys - but that's not necessarily the case. Instead of pretending to be Bourbon, Mexican producers are seeking to highlight the culture of Mexico as the ancestral home of maize with lighter-bodied, elegant sipping whiskies and restrained barrel input. To date, there are over a dozen distillers and even more brands, the vast majority of which have diversified from mezcal to experiment with the country's heirloom varieties. The Koch Group is one. They began producing Whisky Prieto and Prieta in 2018 under the guidance of Txomin Alcorta, a French Master Distiller with experience in Cognac. Their whisky is 100% corn-based. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel with copper stills employed "...in the style of cognac and mezcal". 43% Alc./Vol.
Notes from the producers... Aromas: Red apple with honey, vanilla and hazelnut notes with a hint of dried peach. On the finish tiramisu and a delicate scent of caramelised wood. On the palate: Creamy texture, combination of Neapolitan custard and cinnamon. Dry finish with notes of maples syrup and cherries. Slight pleasant acidity and hints of tobacco in the aftertaste.

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Puni Nova 3 Year Old Italian Malt Whisky (700ml)

ITALY

$140. 00
Bottle
$1680.00 Dozen

ABV: 43%

A three year old malt matured in both American & European oak. Reportedly, barley aswell as malted rye and malted wheat are used.
Tasting note: Almost water like with a pale straw blush. A mildy fruity nose reminiscent of many Speysiders (think Glenlossie, Glencadam, Tomintoul) offering stewed orchard fruits (apple / pear) and light lucerne-like notes freshened up by a touch of peppermint. Follows through with a medium bodied, semi-sweet, fruity / grassy profile with a peppery quality to the spirit and some sharpness to the finish (perhaps the rye coming through?) Could be mistaken for Speyside Scotch in a blind line up. 43% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... Bronze Medal / Other Whiskey Category - 2016 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

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Shinshu Mars Distillery Iwai Tradition Sherry Cask Finish Blended Japanese Whisky (750ml)

JAPAN

$135. 00
Bottle
$1620.00 Dozen

ABV: 40%

Originally aged for between 2–5 years in ex-bourbon, sherry, and American oak casks, this limited release from Mars Shinshu in Nagano was created from a mashbill of 70% malted barley and 30% corn and finished for just over eleven months in PX (sweet) sherry casks. Anticipate aromas and flavours of clove and nougat, complemented by aromas of dry sherry and sweeter notes of maple syrup. A mere 540 bottles were released on the US market, so expect Australia to get much, much less. 40% Alc./Vol.

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Shinshu Mars Distillery Maltage "Cosmo" Wine Cask Finish Blended Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

JAPAN

$199. 00
Bottle
$2388.00 Dozen

ABV: 43%

Famous as the country’s highest distillery, Shinshu Mars has drawn comparison with Scotland's Dalwhinnie. They offer blends as well as their own Japanese whiskies under various names including 'Komagate', 'Iwai', 'Mars' and more. It gets confusing, but what’s clear is they set a high standard for most of the liquid they bottle. Yet another sub-label in Shinshu's portfolio is the ‘Cosmo' range, named after a mountain in Japan's Central Alps nearby the distillery. Featuring their own malts blended with whiskies from undisclosed Scottish sources, this limited edition was extra-seasoned in red wine casks for a year before bottling. Boasting a gorgeous ruby red colour to prove it, expect ripe berry characteristics with vanilla and cinnamon flavours and a mildly tannic finish. 43% Alc./Vol. Bottled in 2020.

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Shinshu Mars Distillery Iwai Tradition Blended Japanese Whisky (750ml)

JAPAN

$110. 00
Bottle
$1320.00 Dozen

ABV: 40%

High up in Miyata village on Kuyshu Island is the Shinshu distillery (aka "Mars"), founded in 1985 by Hombo Shuzo Ltd, a producer of shochu since 1872. Shinshu’s whisky is distilled only during the island's harsh winters. In operation from 1985-1992 and then 2011 to present, this is actually Shuzo's third domestic distillery. The previous have been the Yamanashi Distillery (1960-1969) and the Mars Kagoshima Distillery (1978-1984).
Iwai Tradition is a malt and grain blend described by thejapanesewhiskyreview.com as "...a great session whisky."
Tasting note: Bronze gold colour. Soft aromas of ginger biscuit, rice pudding, vanilla and dry grass followed by delicate flavours of digestif biscuit, light cinnamon and vanilla. Suggestions of ovaltine and cigar box in the aftertaste. Crisp and slightly short to finish. Easy drinking. 40% Alc./Vol.

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