4665 products

Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Welcome to the largest range of Single Malt Scotch Whisky in Australia. Nicks Wine Merchants go further than any other whisky retailer dealing with hundreds of suppliers, both locally and overseas in order to offer you the most eclectic selection as well as some of the very best prices in Single Malt Scotch in Australia today. We cover official distillery bottlings, independents, antiques and collectables as well as many lines otherwise only available via duty free, all shipped to most areas of Australia. We also taste and rate many of the whiskies and/or include third party reviews to guide you further in your purchase. Click here to learn more about Scotch Whisky. Subscribe to our Spirits and Liqueurs Email Newsletter to keep up to date with new arrivals, whisky tastings, special offers and more.

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A.D. Rattray Cask Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - DAMAGED GIFT BOX

Islay, SCOTLAND
Reduced from $89.99
$84. 99
Bottle
$1019.88 Dozen

ABV: 46%

Double Gold Medal Winner in the 2016 & 2017 San Fransisco World Spirits Competition.
Yet another independent bottler hits Australian shores, boasting a strong reputation for quality. Founded by Andrew Dewar Rattray in 1868, the company began trading as an importer of French wines, Italian spirits and olive oil. More importantly, the firm established itself as a specialist in the field of blending and storage of malt and grain whiskies. After several changes in ownership, it returned to the family and is presently owned by Tim Morrison, previously of Morrison Bowmore Distillers and fourth generation descendent of the founder. The company’s resurgence came about in 2002 with the bottling of a ‘new’ Stronachie. In April 2004, using his extensive industry knowledge, Morrison then bottled a selection of his own handpicked whiskies and the A.D. Rattray Cask Collection was born. Plans for their new Glasgow-based distillery were approved in 2014.
Peated to 35ppm, Cask Islay is assembled from up to twenty casks from the one distillery, mostly x-bourbon barrel matured, though some ex-sherry hogsheads are reportedly in the mix. It is unashamedly Islay in its semi-sweet, sooty peat character that's complexed by suggestions of orange cake, cough lozenge, hints of smoked fish and later, banana cake. Because this series is bottled at 46% with zero chill filtration, the whiskies are surprisingly concentrated. Here, the medium dry, spicy profile features sooty malt and vanilla with some apparent sherry influence towards the finish as this gets more dried fruit-like. There's also real staying power with Fisherman's Friend carrying the aftertaste. A sit-back-and-relax island treat at a very reasonable price. 46% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.
Other reviews... Does what it says on the tin. 91.5 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2022
...A.D. Rattray! Glad to meet one of their recent bottlings, I had thought they were, well, gone. Or busy with the Outer-Mongolian market. We had an early batch of their Cask Islay in 2011, and thought it was pretty good (WF 83). Colour: white wine. Nose: reeks of young Caol Ila, which can’t be bad news. Apples, garden bonfire, seawater, whelks, oysters, fresh almonds, and lemons. There. Mouth: purrfekt, with some impeccable ashy smoke (very CI indeed) and more almonds, lemons, apples, and those tiny green crabs that people would rather throw into wild broths and soups. Oh and apples, naturally. Okay, I had mentioned apples before. Finish: rather long, very ashy, kippery, and with apples and lemons in the aftertaste. Comments: a great batch despite the youth and the (relative) simplicity. Not much depth, but all the rest is perfect. Welcome back, A.D. Rattray! 84 points - whiskyfun.com

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- Nick's Import
1996 A.D. Rattray Vintage Cask Collection Bowmore 26 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Islay, SCOTLAND
$1299. 00
Bottle
$15588.00 Dozen

ABV: 42.8%

Stepping up one tier from the "Cask Collection", Rattray's Vintage Cask Collection represents the oldest and rarest Scotch whiskies in their portfolio. Single casks are selected from what they consider Scotland's most prestigious distilleries. Each comes suitably presented to match the contents. Thanks to the Morrison family, the stories of A. D. Rattray and Bowmore will be forever entwined. This selection promises an enchanting Islay from the mid 1990s, whisking you away to the shores of Loch Indaal for a blissfully long summer evening. We've sourced a handful of the 235 bottles produced. 42.8% Alc./Vol. Non-chill filtered.
Notes from the bottlers... Colour: Burnt orange. Nose: Warm lavender, blackcurrant, fennel seed and birch wood smoke. Palate: Roast chestnut, pork crackling, tangerine and pine. Finish: Tangy peat oil coats the tongue, bringing waves of sea salt and lime.

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- Nick's Import
2012 A.D. Rattray Cask Collection Glenburgie 12 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND
$139. 99
Bottle
$1679.88 Dozen

ABV: 53%

Particularly revered in Japan, in recent years, more effort has gone into marketing Glenburgie as a single malt and sales have increased significantly. Ex-bourbon wood is the perfect platform for this characterful Speyside spirit. The traits which make Glenburgie so highly-prized for blenders - aromatic and grassy, with orchard fruits, a cereal sweetness and oily mouthfeel – are all in abundance in this edition. No wonder it’s such a vital component of Ballantine’s, the world’s second biggest selling Scotch! Rattray's outturn was 308 bottles at 53% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.
Other reviews... Colour: Shortbread gold. Nose: White peach, San Francisco sourdough and forced rhubarb. Palate: Golden linseed muesli, candied grapefruit and cantaloupe à la mode. Finish: Lemongrass and lime with a crisp white pepper pizzazz.

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- Nick's Import
2011 A.D. Rattray Cask Collection Deanston 12 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Highlands, SCOTLAND
$169. 99
Bottle
$2039.88 Dozen

ABV: 59.9%

We can no longer claim Deanston as 'under the radar' as it's now well-established as a favourite among the hardcore in the Scotch whisky community. Their best whiskies almost defy categorisation, and the myriad of flavours encountered in this refill barrel make it suitably challenging to pin down. Rattray sum it up as "cereal and herbal". Bourbon barrel 800049 filled 208 bottles at 59.9% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.
Notes from the bottlers... Colour: Soft gold. Nose: Torn sourdough, pink grapefruit and camphor oil. Palate: Barley sugar, green cardamom and crushed lemongrass. Finish: A complex medley of cereal, fruit, mineral, herbs and spices.

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- Nick's Import
1986 A.D. Rattray Vintage Cask Collection Glenrothes 36 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND
$1199. 00
Bottle
$14388.00 Dozen

ABV: 42.1%

Glenrothes is at its very best when it comes out of Bourbon wood with a massive age statement. In this case it was a refill hogshead. Given the steady rise in prices for malts of this ilk and category, Rattray's offering remains very reasonable. The maturation encompasses Diego Maradona’s magic in Mexico 1986 and Lionel Messi’s majesty in Qatar 2022. The whisky is elegant, bold, full of flair and "velvety signature of ultimate maturity." A celebratory dram befitting the most special occasions. The cask yielded 220 bottles. 42.1 Alc./Vol. Non-chill filtered.
Notes from the bottlers... Colour: Sunset gold. Nose: Brazil nut, elderflower, mango and saffron. Palate: Juniper, bergamot oil, cacao nib and liquorice. Finish: Orange blossom honey and the unmistakable, velvety signature of ultimate maturity.

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- Nick's Import
2009 A.D. Rattray Cask Collection Knockdhu 15 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND
$139. 99
Bottle
$1679.88 Dozen

ABV: 52.4%

Knockdhu is better known as AnCnoc. Its dainty, fruity spirit spent 13 months of secondary maturation in a Moscatel wine barrique. Expect subtle orchard fruit notes from the original Bourbon wood maturation, and something a little sweet and tropical from the latter. 322 bottles were produced. 52.4% Alc./Vol. Non-chill filtered.

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- Nick's Import
2011 A.D. Rattray Cask Collection Balblair 12 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Highlands, SCOTLAND
$149. 99
Bottle
$1799.88 Dozen

ABV: 57.4%

Balblair is a characterful make that’s rarely in the spotlight. Here's a bit of a twist on one from an indie: Finished in a two year-seasoned, first-fill Oloroso sherry European oak butt for one year, following maturation in a refill sherry butt for over eleven years, this Balbalir is defined by dried fruit notes. European oak typically imparts a greater spice and depth of character than soft, sweet American oak. Combined with a high strength expression, you can expect a big'un! 604 bottles produced. 57.4% Alc./Vol. Non-chill filtered.
Notes from the bottlers... Colour: Warm copper. Nose: Sticky raisin, may rose and morello cherry. Palate: Dried cranberry, bergamot and sugared almond. Finish: Exotic Turkish delight with pistachio and date.

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- Nick's Import
2010 A.D. Rattray Cask Collection Craigellachie 14 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND
$159. 99
Bottle
$1919.88 Dozen

ABV: 57.1%

Around 14 years old seems to be a good age for Craigellachie, a fact confirmed by the official release 13 year old which remains the distillery's leading line. Long fermentations are responsible for a fragrant, fruity aspect in the distillate, giving it a tropical and slightly floral edge that's most noticeable in mature examples. In this 14 year old from Rattray, tradition and heritage meet experimentation and modernity via an “old-style” spirit drawn from an x Bourbon barrel acquired back in 2010. It's been given an extra layer of complexity through finishing in a first-fill Burgundy red wine cask. Matching casks with secondary woods is a continual learning process. Here the bottlers say the spirit has gained appreciable notes of Pinot Noir, complementing Craigellachie's characteristically full-bodied base. Cask No.18 yielded 296 bottles at 57.1% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.
Notes from the bottlers... Colour: Nectarine gold. Nose: Fresh iris, blackcurrant jam and apricot toasted oat crumble. Palate: Charred peach, dried cranberry and rose petal jelly. Finish: Spiced berry compote with a sprinkling of toasted pine nut.

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- Nick's Import
A.D. Rattray Cask Speyside Sherry Finish 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND
$99. 99
Bottle
$1199.88 Dozen

ABV: 46%

The ten year old predecessor to this edition received praise from the likes of Jim Murray (89 points). This latest Cask Speyside ups the age statement and includes a spell in sherry casks. The rich, spiced berry flavours make an indulgent contrast to the refreshing citrus flavours of the ten. Un-coloured and non-chill-filtered, it's good to see Rattray maintaining the higher abv in this super value series. 46% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... Despite the finish, it got a lot of sherry, modern profile, of course. More in the direction of PX, very sweet, toffee, orange peel, apple and almonds. On the palate there is a clear hint of oak, a bit bitter, slightly tingling, very spicy, again orange or orange jam and a hint of red fruit. Quite long finish, spicy, slightly bitter, warming. The 46% drinking strength is just right. Imho did the finish right here for the malt. - whiskybase.com
Notes from the bottlers... Nose: Almond icing, dusted cinnamon, red apple and blackcurrant. Palate: Cherry plum, spiced honey and zesty orange marmalade. Finish: Rolling gently through subtle spice to a lightly tart, bramble conclusion. Spiced berry, citrus and orchard fruit.

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- 90
- Nick's Import
A.D. Rattray Cask Orkney 15 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Orkney Islands, SCOTLAND
$119. 99
Bottle
$1439.88 Dozen

ABV: 46%

A mystery Orkney. Could it be Scapa? The notes from the bottlers describe a peppery-smokey character, so it's the other. Not a mainstream Highland Park that most will be accustomed to, which is what you want from an independent. At first, mezcal-like, and subtle smoke indeed, instead, a rather fresh, grassy, crisp expression with trace peat. Fascinating and strangely compelling compared to the official bottlings, once attuned to the right amount of water it makes for a good aperitif. Otherwise, add an ice cube or two, release the oils and richen up the experience. Mimimal water is required. One reviewer sums it up as "...a great summer whisky. Lovely honied malty waxy notes; a good ex-bourbon maturation". It's out of the ordinary for the age statement, but at this price and ABV, grabbing a bottle is't much of a gamble. 46% Alc./Vol. Non-chill filtered.
Other reviews... Nose: A freshness opens the dram, before vanilla, coconut, lemon peel, and some red berries — think raspberries. Palate: That freshness continues alongside cream soda, orange and lemon peel, some apple skin, blossom honey, brioche, and just a hint of sweet spice like ginger powder. Finish: Decent length on the finish here without too much tannin. Comment: Sweet and mellow with lots of sweet bourbon-cask character. - whiskymag.com
Notes from the bottlers... Colour: Butterscotch gold. Nose: Clover honey, Parma violet, ripe peach and wild heather embers. Palate: Grilled plum, old-fashioned barley sugar, noble hop and caraway. Finish: A prolonged peppery smoke lifted by tart citrus and foraged pine.

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- Nick's Import
2007 A.D. Rattray Cask Collection Teaninich 16 Years Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Highlands, SCOTLAND
$179. 99
Bottle
$2159.88 Dozen

ABV: 57.8%

Rattray had a sister cask to this one (#461) released at 14 years old in 2021. By comparison, Bourbon hogshead #462 was afforded two further years of maturation through perhaps the most significant mid-teen ageing period, allowing fresh orchard fruits to develop into more tart citrus notes over the ever-present, hearty cereal base. 290 bottles were filled at 57.8% Alc./Vol. Non-chill filtered.
Notes from the bottlers... Colour: Polished gold. Nose: Chalky lemon, honey pomelo and soda bread. Palate: Rustic loaf, Parma violet and fresh lime. Finish: Subtle saffron, liquorice and ginger decorate the palate.

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- 92
- 91
- Nick's Import
A.D. Rattray Cask Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Islay, SCOTLAND
$89. 99
Bottle
$1079.88 Dozen

ABV: 46%

Double Gold Medal Winner in the 2016 & 2017 San Fransisco World Spirits Competition.
Yet another independent bottler hits Australian shores, boasting a strong reputation for quality. Founded by Andrew Dewar Rattray in 1868, the company began trading as an importer of French wines, Italian spirits and olive oil. More importantly, the firm established itself as a specialist in the field of blending and storage of malt and grain whiskies. After several changes in ownership, it returned to the family and is presently owned by Tim Morrison, previously of Morrison Bowmore Distillers and fourth generation descendent of the founder. The company’s resurgence came about in 2002 with the bottling of a ‘new’ Stronachie. In April 2004, using his extensive industry knowledge, Morrison then bottled a selection of his own handpicked whiskies and the A.D. Rattray Cask Collection was born. Plans for their new Glasgow-based distillery were approved in 2014.
Peated to 35ppm, Cask Islay is assembled from up to twenty casks from the one distillery, mostly x-bourbon barrel matured, though some ex-sherry hogsheads are reportedly in the mix. It is unashamedly Islay in its semi-sweet, sooty peat character that's complexed by suggestions of orange cake, cough lozenge, hints of smoked fish and later, banana cake. Because this series is bottled at 46% with zero chill filtration, the whiskies are surprisingly concentrated. Here, the medium dry, spicy profile features sooty malt and vanilla with some apparent sherry influence towards the finish as this gets more dried fruit-like. There's also real staying power with Fisherman's Friend carrying the aftertaste. A sit-back-and-relax island treat at a very reasonable price. 46% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.
Other reviews... Does what it says on the tin. 91.5 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2022
...A.D. Rattray! Glad to meet one of their recent bottlings, I had thought they were, well, gone. Or busy with the Outer-Mongolian market. We had an early batch of their Cask Islay in 2011, and thought it was pretty good (WF 83). Colour: white wine. Nose: reeks of young Caol Ila, which can’t be bad news. Apples, garden bonfire, seawater, whelks, oysters, fresh almonds, and lemons. There. Mouth: purrfekt, with some impeccable ashy smoke (very CI indeed) and more almonds, lemons, apples, and those tiny green crabs that people would rather throw into wild broths and soups. Oh and apples, naturally. Okay, I had mentioned apples before. Finish: rather long, very ashy, kippery, and with apples and lemons in the aftertaste. Comments: a great batch despite the youth and the (relative) simplicity. Not much depth, but all the rest is perfect. Welcome back, A.D. Rattray! 84 points - whiskyfun.com

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- Nick's Import
Aberfeldy 12 Year Old Madeira Cask Finish Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Highlands, SCOTLAND
$84. 99
Bottle
$1019.88 Dozen

ABV: 40%

A step up from the standard 12 year old, this direct import Aberfeldy is selling at the same price as Duty Free! Expect a lighter style dram where the Madeira casks impart hints of honey and nuts. 40% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... One might imagine that, at the very least, travel retail finishes would be tailored to airports. Here, for instance, Funchal, naturally, or perhaps Lisbon, Faro or… er, Porto. No, forget it… Colour: gold. Nose: a few slightly dirty touches of mustard and aged walnuts—not unpleasant, in fact—dried raisins and toasted almonds, a hint of paprika, then some earthy notes. Quite pleasant. Mouth: pepper, mustard, walnut wine, a touch of burnt caramel and bitter chocolate, with a relatively powerful attack despite the low ABV. However, it quickly becomes rather prickly on the nose and turns increasingly drying, with hints of mushroom. A pity, as the combination is interesting. Finish: rather short, heavily on the Madeira, with Worcestershire sauce at this stage. Comments: one could almost use it in cooking, perhaps in a Madeira sauce. But of course! The 40% ABV is pretty low, that’s for sure, but it’s a nice drop in the end. 80 points - whiskyfun.com

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- Nick's Import
Aberfeldy 15 Year Old Cadillac Cask Finish Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Highlands, SCOTLAND
$149. 99
Bottle
$1799.88 Dozen

ABV: 43%

"...a delightful whisky and one of Aberfeldy’s best ever." - drinkhacker.com
Finishing this 15-year-old Aberfeldy in Semillon sweet white wine casks from Cadillac brings a balance of opulence and freshness to the whisky. Malt Master, Stephanie Macleod sourced the casks from a 40-hectare estate in the heart of Entre-deux-Mers, Gironde, just south of Bordeaux. Exuding notes of yellow fruits, florals,and a burst of citrus, seamlessly melding with Aberfeldy's signature soft, honeyed character, the wine influence makes the whisky brighter than the 12 year old, also giving it more body and a longer finish. 43% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... A 15 year old single malt finished in French semillon “Cadillac” white wine casks. I presume Cadillac refers to the region of France near Bordeaux, known for its sweet wine production, but details are scarce. This is a delightful whisky and one of Aberfeldy’s best ever. The nose is beautiful and sweet, though there’s a slightly savory quality that evokes notes of dried flowers, toasted oak, and a gentle maritime edge. Lemon curd and tangerine are the most prominent fruit elements, but these are kept in check, at least for now. The palate is where this whisky really shines, as all of the above come together in beautiful fashion, really showcasing the citrus notes of lemon and orange, filtered through golden syrup, gentle sandalwood, and a layer of baking spices. Cohesive but complex, it’s bright and immersive, with a noteworthy layer of honey on the finish. Sauternes is made (in part) from semillon grapes, and I have to assume this whisky was finished in a similar type wine barrel. No complaints from me. This review was delayed because I broke my first sample bottle; very glad I stuck it out waiting for a replacement. - drinkhacker.com

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- Nick's Import
Aberfeldy 15 Year Old Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon Cask Finish Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Highlands, SCOTLAND
$159. 99
Bottle
$1919.88 Dozen

ABV: 43%

Master Blender of the Year 2020, Stephanie Macleod continues her themed series of red wine matured malts. For this edition, she's given Aberfeldy a stint in casks that previously held Napa Valley Cabernet. Expect added notes of raspberry, cinnamon spice and coffee hovering above the distillery's sweet cereal profile. 43% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... Fruit greets the nose with fresh melon, sliced pear, and a hint of apricot marmalade. Eventually, vanilla pound cake, cinnamon stick, and tiramisu enter the picture. A decadent palate deliciously weaves together honey, just-ripe raspberries, cacao, and a dash of white pepper, making for a rich and winding ride. The finish goes on and on, with a squeeze of lemon and stewed pear capping it all off. 91 points - whiskyadvocate.com
...Applying secondary aging to fifteen year single malt scotch is a delicate balance. While this expression is certainly wine forward, I can still appreciate the essential qualities of aged single malt in its back notes and finish. While cabernet sauvignon is an unusual finish for scotch, it feels like a natural extension of the time-tested qualities of sherry finishes.rnrnIn the end, this expression brings the rich intensity of a cabernet sauvignon and the delicate depth of an aged Highland single malt. I don’t expect this to convert the single malt purists, but if the combination sounds interesting to you, then I think it's definitely worth finding a bottle. - thewhiskeywash.com
It's hard not to laugh, to me at least. Apparently, someone's decided that it would be a good idea to finish a 15 yo Aberfeldy, probably just fine, in some 'Cabernet Sauvignon wine casks from the Napa Valley'. And French oak, I suppose. I mean, beyond the tastes, imagine the carbon footprint. Do they then export this to San Francisco? To Sausalito's bourgeoisie, you say? Colour: apricot. Nose: naturally, they are not stupid (of course they aren't), you do not feel the red wine upfront, you rather get fruitcakes, dried apricots, then heather honey and, indeed, some strawberry jam and marshmallows. At this point, we're still fine (even if I'd love some regular Aberfeldy instead)… Mouth: starts okay, then falls apart, killed by red berries and oak spices. Blackcurrants, never such a good idea in whisky, if you ask this very humble little taster. Clafoutis, Mon Chéri, green pepper, leaves, cherry stems… Pass. Finish: medium, leafy, bitterish, some chocolate in the aftertaste kind of saves it, though. Those Mon Chéri again. Comments: it's not that it's utterly bad, it's that it's not needed. But then again and again, only one man's opinion. 79 points - whiskyfun.com

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- Nick's Import
Aberfeldy 18 Year Old Bolgheri Tuscan Cask Finish Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Highlands, SCOTLAND
$250. 00
Bottle
$3000.00 Dozen

ABV: 43%

Dewar’s Master Blender and Malt Master for Aberfeldy, Stephanie Macleod, is also passionate about wine. Marrying her two interests, she set out to see how different red wine casks effect whisky flavour. The first release in the series was a dram finished in Pomerol wine casks from Bordeaux. Subsequent bottlings have followed. This 2022 edition sees Aberfeldy finished in Bolgheri Tuscan red wine casks imparting robust, dark fruit flavours and an intense oak finish to the already fruity malt. Macleod takes a very active role in these maturations, repeatedly monitoring their progress ensuring that the malt doesn't get overwhelmed by red wine character. In this experiment, cherry frangipane and vanilla spice are said to be keynotes. 43% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... The casks used in this release came from Bolgheri, a small region of Tuscany. The Tuscan region is typically known for their Chianti wines, though Bolgheri has the distinction of introducing the world’s first “Super Tuscan Wine’. The terrain in Bolgheri is similar to the Bordeaux region in France (rocky limestone near the Tyrrhenian Sea), allowing non-native grapes from France, such as Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Syrah, to be grown and used in the regions wines. Knowing that the same grapes grow in both France and Italy, its easy to see why Stephanie landed on using casks from the Bolgheri region....The idea to finish malts in red wine casks is an interesting idea, though hard to tell exactly how much it contributed to the final product. While the nose is a dense mess that’s hard to sort through, the palate is warm and inviting, with much complexity. Some water does help to open up the nose and palate, letting the Tuscan cask become more prevalent, yet it still seems like it could pull some more weight. - whiskeyreviewer.com

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Aberfeldy 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Highlands, SCOTLAND
$94. 99
Bottle
$1139.88 Dozen

ABV: 40%

For over a century, Aberfeldy has maintained a hidden profile as the backbone of the famous Dewar’s blends (the best-selling Scotch in America as well as the distillery’s corporate owner). Aberfeldy's own line of re-vamped single malts started to roll out in 2014, with a five-strong range. Sales have since increased significantly. Situated between the Highlands and the Lowlands, the distillery is sometimes referred to as a 'Mid-Lowlander' and is considered one of the sweetest of all Scottish single malts, the result of extended fermentations coupled with slow distillation. Its approachable style has a honeycomb - breakfast cereal character and can be deliciously fruity. Sherried variants like the very successful 16 year old reveal a gutsier side of the distillate.
When it comes to the entry-level 12 year old, initial impressions are of fruit salad with scents of unripe canteloupe most salient along side dustings of dried coconut. Five minutes sees the fruity edge only slightly diminished. It's light and silky on entry but builds into a soft, light to medium bodied, elegant malt, the fruity / vanilla combination repeating at mid palate, followed by hints of oatmeal with moderate length. In short, an amiable 'Highlander' that's clearly intended for casual drinking. 40% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... bright and lively, the sweetly honeyed cereal and buttery biscuits of a predominantly bourbon-barreled single malt (plus some refill and a touch of sherry) are immediate on both nose and palate. It’s approachable and comes across as just a little green but otherwise fully uncomplicated, with the focus squarely on well-sweetened grain notes as the palate builds. The finish offers just a touch of spice and at least nods toward the oak barrel, but it never attempts to complicate what comes across as an affordable sipper to get the night started. - drinkhacker.com
Golden and bright in the glass, the aroma suggests caramel apples. The palate shows plenty of oak and spice, opening with sandalwood and vanilla, plus a hint of baked apple. Adding water brings a mellow, malty effect, bringing in honey, ginger and a final flurry of cinnamon. 91 points - wineenthusiast.com
Fresh and floral, with lively tropical fruit, honey, and vanilla. Gentle on the palate, with a slight syrupy texture to its malty foundation. Youthful, orange marmalade finish with a hint of spice. A pleasant, easy-going whisky. 82 points
- maltadvocate.com, 4th Quarter 2006 Issue-Vol. 15#4
... Nose: Beautifully intense malt with a cidery-apple fruitiness. Gentle oak and honey round off superbly. Palate: Fresh, almost crisp mouthfeel with outstanding sweet maltiness and an almost Irish pot-still firm fruitiness. Mouthwatering. Finish: Softly spiced with a long, rich malt follow-through. Comment: Really outstanding example of massively complex, classy but undiscovered malt. 85 points - Jim Murray, whiskymag.com
Gold Medal - Distillers' Single Malts 12 years and under - 2020 International Spirits Challenge
- Grand Gold Medal – Monde Selection, Belgium
- Gold Medal – Concours Mondial, Belgium
- Silver Medal – International Wine and Spirits Competition

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Aberfeldy 28 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (750ml)

Highlands, SCOTLAND
$599. 00
Bottle
$7188.00 Dozen

ABV: 40%

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

A travel retail release that debuted in 2016, joining the 18 year old and a host of re-branded age statements. Readers should note, two different Aberfeldy 28 year olds were offered. The distillery released the 'Gold of Pitilie 28 year old’ (named after their Pitilie Burn water source). Only eight bottles of this 1985 vintage were produced, adorned with 22 and 24 carat gold leaf and priced at around AU$5K each. We have the ‘standard’ 40% ABV edition.

Other reviews... Surprisingly viscous for 40% ABV (though still could have a wee bit more oomph for my liking) and delivering a rich and creamy arrival which emphasises both sweetness and wood. Toffee and fudge are joined by ripe apples, poached pears and a heavy dose of old wood in the form of leather bound books, furniture polish and tobacco... a lovely drinking experience – it’s the type of whisky that’s both indulgent and refined, but also easy to get along with. Great balance of sweetness and bitterness with an old wood profile that still allows the more fruity underpinning flavours to shine through. Very tasty stuff indeed. Alas, the price of this one has completely skyrocketed. - thedramble.com

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- ABV may vary
- Batch may vary
Aberlour A'bunadh Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND
$154. 99
Bottle
$1859.88 Dozen

Aberlour’s cask strength A’bunadh has long been a darling of single malt aficionados, released in batches, each varies in proof and flavour as proportions of older or younger material make the cut, but the brief remains the same: Make a 100% ex-oloroso sherry aged malt using the inventory at hand (anywhere from 5 to 25 years old). Keep it natural, which means zero chill filtration, keep it balanced and keep it affordable. No information about the number of bottles from each batch of A’bunadh is offered, but they're large outturns for a global community, which makes for a significant blending challenge. That hasn't stopped collectors and fans of sherried malts from stocking up on those that are deemed better than others. With or without water, whichever way you like it, A'bunadh is worth checking out as you encounter it, at least so long as value remains Pernod-Ricard's priority.

Delivery Information
- Nick's Import
- Not gift boxed
- Reduced
Aberlour Double Sherry Cask Finish 18 Year Old Batch No. 003 Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND
Reduced from $299.00
$250. 00
Bottle
$3000.00 Dozen

ABV: 43%

You have to get the bottle out of the tube in order to identify the batches on these older Aberlours. This one's number three in the series, matured for 18 years and finished in both Oloroso and Pedro Ximénez Sherry casks. We presume that the intent of the batches is to introduce subtle variations to tasters, probably by varying the ratios of PX vs oloroso casks. According to Aberlour, in this example you get flavours of apricot, chocolate coated raisins, liquorice root and freshly grated nutmeg. The PX sherry comes through the finish which has lasting sweetness. Serge Valentin of whiskyfun.com says these bottlings are so easy to drink, they should come with a warning: "Never pour more than 2cl in your glass at any time, and never refill before your (or your guests') glass is totally empty, or you won't control anything." Consider the price when compared with 'conspicuous consumption' equivalents like Macallan and this is looking like an attractive proposition. 43% Alc./Vol.

Delivery Information
- Nick's Import
- Reduced
Aberlour Double Sherry Cask Finish 18 Year Old Batch No. 002 Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND
Reduced from $330.00
$250. 00
Bottle
$3000.00 Dozen

ABV: 43%

You have to get the bottle out of the tube in order to identify the batches on these older Aberlours. This one's number two in the series, matured for 18 years and finished in both Oloroso and Pedro Ximénez Sherry casks. We presume that the intent of the batches is to introduce subtle variations to tasters, probably by varying the ratios of PX vs Oloroso casks. Consider the price when compared with 'conspicuous consumption' equivalents like Macallan and this is looking like a very attractive proposition. 43% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... This one's very new and looks like the finishing craze stroke again. I tried the earlier 18 only in January this year but liked it a lot (WF 86) even if it was wounded by some original sin as they had done it at 50cl. This new one, at 70cl, has been finished twice, although I couldn't tell you whether that was simultaneously or successively. Classic set-up anyway, PX + oloroso. Colour: amber with orange hues. Orange hues suggest spirit caramel but I doubt they would have done that here. Nose: gentle, with more sherry than in the white oak, naturally. Although the vast majority of sherry casks are white oak too, it has to be said. Some cognac, many raisins, bags of dried goji berries, figs and dates, a little orange juice, zwetschke tart, clootie dumpling, treacle toffee pudding… Very clean, absolutely lovely, but as we all know, with these profiles it'll happen – or not - on the palate. Mouth: so easy. Aberlour's fruitiness, more zwetschke, preserved peaches in abundance, blood oranges, apricots, raisins, chocolate liqueur, fudge, a touch of lemon to keep it fresh and lively… Finish: medium, citrusy, fresher and brighter. Allegro. Millionaire shortbread in the aftertaste. Comments: this one's extremely dangerous. Never pour more than 2cl in your glass at any time, and never refill before your (or your guests') glass is totally empty, or you won't control anything. 87 points - whiskyfun.com

Delivery Information
- Nick's Import
- Reduced
Aberlour Forest Reserve 10 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND
Reduced from $99.99
$89. 99
Bottle
$1079.88 Dozen

ABV: 40%

Recently re-packaged and subtitled 'Forest Reserve', Aberlour's 10 year old is one of the world's top selling single malts. Along with the new look, there's been a slight change to the maturation regime - this expression has had an additional finishing in French Limousin oak barrels after spending most of its time in Bourbon and Sherry casks.

Other reviews... [Original 10YO bottling] Orange-amber hue. Inviting aromas of orange marmalade and Sherry. Moderately full-bodied with mouth-coating viscosity. Well-balanced flavors of honeycomb, heather, oloroso Sherry, and citrus peel with a hint of herbaceous peat. Finishes with a warm, satisfying glow of alcohol. A sure bet as a digestif.
91 points (Exceptional) - tastings.com

Founded on its current site by James Fleming in 1879, the village ‘Aberlour’ (Gaelic for Mouth of the Chattering Burn) became nationally famous in the 19th century for its orphanage. The town has preserved much of its historical character. Original houses, built of stones taken from the bed of the Spey, mingle with more recent buildings and landscaped public gardens. Aberlour's spectacular setting on the banks of the Spey makes it easy to see what made it such an attractive place to found a community and a distillery. Built alongside the Lour burn, Aberlour uses pure spring water that rises through peat and granite from Ben Rinnes. The St Drostan Well stone was erected to mark the location of the spring, which was used by St Drostan to baptise the local population in the 7th century, and is also featured on Aberlour’s label.

Delivery Information
- Not gift boxed
Aberlour 12 Year Old Double Cask Matured Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND
$109. 99
Bottle
$1319.88 Dozen

ABV: 40%

Whilst many Australian whisky enthusiasts are familiar with the traditional sherried bottlings from Aberlour distillery, many parts of Europe are privy to its more curious variants which combine whiskies derived from both sherry and bourbon casks, varying in proportion. We have sourced a small quantity of these relatively unknown expressions just to showcase what this distillery capable of.

Other Reviews... Fruitier, sweeter, and more straightforward than the new 16 year old. Ripe tangerine, orchard fruit, and caramel apples, all on a bed of nutty toffee. Underlying notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger, with a dusting of dark chocolate. After the sweetness fades away, there’s lingering spice and oak resin on the finish. A good alternative to Macallan 12 year old or Glenfarclas 12 year old.
84 points. John Hansell - whiskyadvocate.com

Delivery Information
- 93
- Nick's Import
- Not gift boxed
- Reduced
Aberlour 12 Year Old Non Chill-Filtered Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND
Reduced from $129.99
$109. 99
Bottle
$1319.88 Dozen

ABV: 48%

A big step up from Aberlour's regular 12YO, bottled at 48% with zero chill filtration. "...probably the best entry-level Aberlour that one can find..." - whiskyfun.com
Tasted in a session that included A'bunadh and Casg Annamh, this stood up well. In fact, it could be argued that it showed the best poise and persistence. It's not only the non-chill filtration and higher ABV that differentiate it from the standard 12 year old, it's the proportions of whiskies that are used. The nose develops with a superbly pure combination of American oak, creamy vanilla and malted barley - spice and sherry fruitiness in second place. The aromas are reflected on the palate where a softer, more approachable side of Aberlour is encountered, though, not without the higher ABV injecting a gratifying degree of intensity. By the finish, it's deliciously textural and surprisingly long. Quite simply lovely malt, with excellent integration and a big step up on the regular 12YO - which is a bit of a weakling compared. For some tasters this was the favourite in the line up. At the time of writing, Aberlour's website no longer lists it as part of their portfolio, so there's no guarantees of future re-stocks. 48% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.
Other reviews: Appearance: Clear, deep golden amber. Aroma: Rich fruitcake, dark dried fruit, toasty biscuit, walnuts with creamy mocha coffee. Taste: Dark and toasty with burnt fruitcake, mocha coffee, chocolate mouse, plum fruit and spice (nutmeg, cinnamon and light clove). Aftertaste: Toasty mocha coffee, chocolate cake and spice. Takes a splash of water well. A malt for a winter’s evening by the fire. 5 stars - diffordsguide.com
[circa 2012 bottling tasted] It’s the bigger version of the popular 12 but I’m not sure this one was double-matured. Well it probably is. Colour: full gold. Nose: starts quite winey (old Madeira) and with traces of gunpowder, so there’s probably quite some sherry involved. The good news is that all that tends to vanish while more earthy and even mushroomy touches arise. I also get some spearmint, honeydew, then ripe apricots, warm apple pie, liquorice, blackberry jam and just touches of Williams pears… It just wouldn’t stop improving and becoming more lively, given you give it a little time. Also bergamots, earl grey… A very elegant nose! Mouth: maybe not as bold as expected but it’s very nicely chocolaty and coffee-ish. I also enjoy all these orangey notes a lot, there’s some marmalade, kumquats, then even touches of absinth and fennel. Medium oak, a little leather, cloves… All good. Finish: medium, all on chocolate this time, with the oranges more in the aftertaste. Comments: this baby isn’t expensive so it’s probably the best entry-level Aberlour that one can find, especially since it’s easier to quaff than A’bunadh. 85 points - whiskyfun.com

Delivery Information
Aberlour A'bunadh Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - Batch 032

Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND
$299. 00
Bottle
$3588.00 Dozen

ABV: 60.4%

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

At the time of writing, we're up to Batch 84 in the series. This historical bottling goes way back (circa 2011). The dark colour looks like some older sherry casks made it to the mixing vat. One to collect or set aside for a special occasion. 60.4% Alc./Vol.
Each batch of Abunadh varies in proof and flavour as proportions of older or younger material make the cut, but the brief remains the same: Make a 100% ex-oloroso sherry aged malt using the inventory at hand (anywhere from 5 to 25 years old). Keep it natural, which means zero chill filtration, keep it balanced and keep it affordable. No information about the number of bottles from each batch of A’bunadh is offered, but they're large outturns for a global community, which makes for a significant blending challenge. That hasn't stopped collectors and fans of sherried malts from stocking up on those that are deemed better than others.

Delivery Information
2008 Adelphi Glen Elgin 15 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND
$230. 00
Bottle
$2760.00 Dozen

ABV: 55.6%

It’s unlikely that Glen Elgin will become a major brand anytime soon, given how important it is to blenders. A combination of long, slow ferments, and distillation coupled with worm tubs yields a particularly fruity spirit. Adelphi have seasoned this selection in a refill oloroso sherry butt. The outturn was 487 bottles at 55.6% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.
"We are in sherry territory. Has anyone noticed/felt that there are not as many around as there once were? One tires of ‘sherry bombs’ when the strong influence of previous contents overpowers, though this being Adelphi, there are also highly commendable attributes. Though perhaps not my preferred style these days, that doesn’t stop me from admiring this as objectively as I can. It’s a reminder that Adelphi knows how to select a cask. Just don’t expect much [if any] Elgin to come through." - whiskybase.com

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1992 Adelphi Longmorn 32 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND
$1699. 00
Bottle
$20388.00 Dozen

ABV: 49.9%

This Longmorn from a refill bourbon hogshead is the oldest bottling in the latest Adelphi range. An appropriate choice, perhaps, as the distillery celebrates its 130th anniversary in 2024. It's also making a comeback, with a new core of age statements including an 18 and a 22 year old. Long ageing has tipped this cask strength gem just under the 100 proof mark landing it at 49.9% Alc./Vol. 222 bottles are on offer. Non chill filtered.
Notes from the bottlers... a sublime, alluring and complex character, with notes of lavender and violets, apricot, custard cream, tart grapefruit, key lime pie and macadamia nut... floral and fruity, but with a pleasant liqueur-like bitterness and appropriate heft.

Delivery Information
- 90
Aerstone Land Cask 10 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Highlands, SCOTLAND
$69. 99
Bottle
$839.88 Dozen

ABV: 40%

Other reviews... This was launched as a ‘budget’ single malt for Tesco. It’s good that it would come with an age statement, but the ABV screams ‘cheapo’. It is, in fact, one of the several styles made at Ailsa Bay at Girvan. Let’s see… Colour: light gold. Nose: some farmy peat, a little mud, some grist and a touch of vanillin. Well, this baby does not tear you apart, that’s good. In a way. Mouth: extremely light, with some smoke, a touch of apple and lemon, notes of smoked ham, and perhaps a touch of iodine. There is something of the lightest Laphroaig 10s – not the current production mind you. Frustratingly light body. Finish: short, leaving a feeling of smoked water. Comments: peat is good but when there’s only peat (plus a little barley), that’s not quite enough. A little disappointing, typical 75-pointer in my book, hope they’ll also do a kind of high-proof version, without dropping the age statement. 75 points - whiskyfun.com

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Aerstone Sea Cask 10 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

SCOTLAND
$69. 99
Bottle
$839.88 Dozen

ABV: 40%

Other reviews... This should be Ailsa Bay as well, but not at the price of Ailsa Bay. What’s a sea cask by the way? Did they use floated wood? Stored this on an island? On some shore? Now let’s not forget one of the industry’s talking points, ‘Scotland is integrally coastal’. Aye aye. Colour: light gold. Nose: I like this better. It’s a fine, balanced, easy malt whisky, on barley, vanilla, bread and caraway/nutmeg. I always like it when it’s this close to bread and barley, even when it’s not complex. Mouth: yes, it’s pretty pleasant, what a shame that it hasn’t got much watts, and that it is dragging itself along with little enthusiasm. Wee touches of brine, that’s nice – is that the ‘sea’ part? Finish: short, but really okay as far as flavours are concerned. Comments: good potential here. 43% would really be welcome. 79 points - whiskyfun.com

Delivery Information
- Nick's Import
AnCnoc Sherry Cask Finish Peated Edition Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND
$109. 99
Bottle
$1319.88 Dozen

ABV: 43%

A logical addition to Knockdhu's family, given that the distillery is perched close to some of the finest barley and peat bogs the Highlands offer. Unlike AnCnoc Peat Heart, which features 100% peated spirit and has been solely matured in ex-bourbon casks, this is a combination of unpeated and peated distillate that gets finished in sherry butts creating a soft, sweet, smoky malt that's more accessible than many Islays. 43% Alc./Vol.
Notes from the producers... NOSE: Sweet honey and tropical fruit, notes of cinnamon and rich toffee, delicate campfire smoke. TASTE: Toffee apples coated in warming spices, deep vanilla, a rich, sweet, smoky character. Long wood smoke, caramel, vanilla finish.

Delivery Information
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- 87
- 94
- Nick's Import
AnCnoc 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND
$99. 99
Bottle
$1199.88 Dozen

ABV: 40%

"...so complex it is frightening…a more complete and confident Speyside malt you are unlikely to find." - Jim Murray
The AnCnoc label entered the scene in 1993 and is now flourishing with a range of expressions and age statements. The ‘flagship' 12-year-old is a sweet, floral, Summery whisky that's all about easy drinking. Made at the Knockdhu distillery (a major contributor to the Haig blends), five years after DCL closed the operation, it was acquired by Inver House Distillers Ltd who reopened it and created the AnCnoc brand to avoid confusion with fellow Speysider, 'Knockando'.
Knockdhu was founded in 1894 following the discovery of several springs of particularly pure water on the southern slopes of Knock Hill. When production first started, the distillery was a showpiece. Two pot stills could turn out 2500 gallons of spirit per week, motive power being supplied by a 16 horsepower steam engine. Cottages were built for the workers and their families, creating a new community around the distillery. Much has been done to modernise the buildings and machinery since, but very little has changed in the production process. Two originally designed pot stills remain, giving Knockdhu the same "fruity, citric and honeyed flavour" as was first described almost a century ago. Maturation includes both x Bourbon and sherry casks, and a substantial part of production continues to make its way into the Hankey Bannister blend which sells millions of bottles annually.
The twelve year old is a pale gold-coloured malt with aromas that caress the nose with the softest of whisky scents, almost floral, but there's also honey, toasty grains, plus some fruitiness (baked apple?) and possibly a whisper of peat, too. The palate concentration is good, with spices adding presence to the vanillas followed by a late juicy burst, fading dry and light with cocoa, gentle spices and understated orchard fruitiness. It's all very pretty, falling towards the elegant end of the Speyside spectrum. 40% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews… so complex it is frightening…a more complete and confident Speyside malt you are unlikely to find. Shimmers with everything that is great about Scotch Whisky… always a reliable dram, but this is stupendous. 94.5 points - Jim Murrays Whisky Bible
...The entry level anCnoc is aged principally in bourbon barrels, with a small element of sherry wood-matured spirit included in the mix. Floral and quite delicate on the nose, with barley, apples, and honey. Medium-bodied, smooth, and well-balanced, with more honey, apple, malt, vanilla, and cinnamon. The finish is relatively short, drying, and mildly oaky. 87 points - whiskyadvocate.com
...Colour: straw. Nose: I like this kind of fruitiness quite a lot. Imagine a good dose of stewed apples, topped with a honey and caramel sauce and touches of liquorice. Then it becomes more floral (dandelions) as well as obviously malty. A rather perfect all-rounder, as they say. Mouth: pretty much in line with the nose, with the same notes of apple pie, malt, barley sugar, light honey and liquorice (that gives it a faintly smoky/bitter profile). Caramel. Finish: medium, with more liquorice. Comments: it makes me think of some high-range blend. Easy and very good in my opinion. 84 points - Serge Valentin, whiskyfun.com

Delivery Information
- 90
- Nick's Import
Ardbeg Smoketrails Napa Valley Edition Single Malt Scotch Whisky (1000ml)

Islay, SCOTLAND
$169. 99
Bottle
$2039.88 Dozen

ABV: 46%

The third edition in the Smoketrails series comes matured in a marriage of bourbon casks and x-Cabernet sauvignon casks from the Napa Valley in Northern California. Wine plus peat can be a bit of a lottery. Here, the Cabernet is said to take second place to the distillery's typically heavy phenols, leaving trace notes of baked rye, rich espresso and cool menthol. Bottled in August 2024 at a strength of 46% in a one litre format. Non-chill filtered.
Other reviews... Matured in bourbon barrels and cabernet sauvignon red wine casks, this is intensely peaty on first sniff, but it’s wonderfully aromatic peat fires, verging on bonfire smoke at times. Paired with this are aromas of plum, black olive tapenade, black truffle, and toasted sourdough. The palate mingles chocolate muffin, dried cranberry, spices, and peat smoke, with hints of menthol and eucalyptus stretching into the finish. 90 points - whiskyadvocate.com
A fine dram, although ashiness is one of my least favourite elements of peated whisky, and the Ardbeg Smoketrails Napa Valley Edition has plenty of it. The wine influence is also not insignificant. All in all it is a minor miracle I scored it this high. - wordsofwhisky.com

Delivery Information
- 93
Ardbeg Anthology The Beithir’s Tale Very Rare 15 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Islay, SCOTLAND
$250. 00
Bottle
$3000.00 Dozen

ABV: 46%

The final release in the Ardbeg Anthology Collection involves the use of custom-made casks (a first for Ardbeg), air-dried in the USA rather than kiln-dried, and then subjected to heavy toasting and light charring before being seasoned for at least four years with bourbon. Master Blender, Gillian Macdonald states the intention was to create a smoother, creamier profile. Whiffs of earthy peat, iodine and kelp bring a fresh, sea-spray vibe to the nose leaving hints of smoked meats. Semi-sweet and savoury, the oils and phenols take charge on the palate, creaming-up with air contact; baked citrus flavours are followed by a grassy finish, trailing off with liquorice root, menthol tobacco ash and white pepper heat. The lingering salt'n'pepper aftertaste is a strong point. This invigorating style of Ardbeg reminds us of bourbon-casked Kilchoman. 46% Alc./Vol.
Notes from the producers... The final chapter in the Ardbeg Anthology Collection has reared its smoky head. Introducing The Beithir’s Tale, a rare and elusive dram inspired by one of the most fearsome creatures ever said to stalk the Distillery’s shores. Aged for 15 years in special designer charred bourbon casks, these barrels have been air-seasoned, heavily toasted, and then lightly charred. This whisky is inspired by the tale of the Beithir* – a fearsome serpent that slithered into the Distillery (or so the story goes). Spotted among the barrels, it had three prized casks lodged in its belly. Charmed away by an enchanting melody piped from a chanter, the hypnotised beast fled into the Atlantic, leaving the barrels bobbing on the waves. This bold dram crackles with notes of peat smoke, treacle, coffee grits, citrus and spice. Long, meandering flavours of vanilla and smoked butter burst forth in a finish that slithers across the palate and sings to the senses.
Gold at both the International Spirits Challenge and the International Wine and Spirit Competition.

Delivery Information
- Nick's Import
Ardbeg Anamorphic Committee Release Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Islay, SCOTLAND
$299. 00
Bottle
$3588.00 Dozen

ABV: 48.2%

The point of difference in Ardbeg's latest Committee release sees the cask heads scored to expose more of the wood's surface area. The cask ends were heavily toasted using the distillery's 'high mocha' toasting process and the inside of the barrels were charred. The process is said to temper the briny overtones, ramp up hidden chocolaty sweetness and magnify sensations of mocha. Bottled non chill filtered at 48.2%. Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... The story with Anamorphic revolves around barrel charring. After removing the heads of classic Ardbeg bourbon casks, they were scored deeply to expose more wood and then intensely charred before being filled. Jack Daniel’s did a similar trick with its Sinatra Select bottlings. Does Ardbeg need more wood on it? The nose of the non-age-stated whisky is every bit as dark and smoky as the classic Ardbegs you know and love, offering a bruising aroma of burnt end barbecue and dying beach bonfire embers. It’s a bit daunting at first, starting off as rather one-note until you let it settle down in glass, revealing more layers beyond pushy smoke. Let Anamorphic rest in glass for a while, lest you down sip after sip of charry, tarry peat, free of nuance. After 15 minutes or so, fruit becomes much more evident, with elements of banana and baked apples, then a significant chocolate quality, ringed with walnuts. There’s plenty of aggressive tar that lingers on the back end, but for many an Ardbeg fan, that’s just what the good doctor ordered. All told, Anamorphic doesn’t exactly shift expectations for the brand, but rather it doubles down on them. - drinkhacker.com
...This Ardbeg comes from ex-Bourbon casks with toasted heads, and the nose has touches of chili-infused chocolate, a hint of anise, and a slightly herbal character. The taste has notes of grilled citrus, chili powder, dark chocolate, cocoa nibs, and a gentle peatiness. The finish is long with a gentle smokiness and touches of dark chocolate and soft spices. Excellent! (October, 2023) 95 points - whiskycast.com
Notes from the producers... Nose: Earthy, dusty, and slightly biscuity on the nose, this is a most curious Ardbeg, almost from an alternative universe. The sooty/tarry notes are clear but restrained, and are balanced out by some silky vanilla. Water opens up a myriad of herbal and floral notes- smoked etiver root, aniseed, fennel, chrysanthemum and jasmine, to name but a few. Palate: The mouthfeel is peppery and warming, and precedes an explosion of fiery, spicy flavours – chili – flavoured chocolate, bitter sweet mocha, briar wood, birch tar, ground black pepper and smoked artichokes. The sooty/tarry notes build up to a crescendo of rich, smoky flavours, with an incredible, lingering aftertaste of charcoal bitter almonds and molasses.

Delivery Information
- 92
- Reduced
Ardbeg 17 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Islay, SCOTLAND
Reduced from $299.00
$260. 00
Bottle
$3120.00 Dozen

ABV: 40%

The legend returns as a Committee exclusive.
First released in 1997, Ardbeg 17 became one of the first whiskies to hit the market when the distillery re-opened. Patchy production periods in the 1980s and 1990s meant that the requisite stocks were never going to last long, which included unpeated whiskies from the 1980s. Consequently, Ardbeg 17 was discontinued in 2004. Directors of Whisky Production, Bill Lumsden and Gillian MacDonald decided to re-launch the age statement in 2024, closely following the elements that made the original. With a lower ABV and chill filtration, this is considerably softer than Ardbeg's 5 or 10-year old expressions, heading towards the elegance of decades-old Jura. Like the last hours of a dying fire, it exhibits a dry, ashy character that slowly smoulders its way across the tongue, the classic distillery traits suggested in low key, from grilled pineapple, mezcal smoke, bitter dark chocolate and Perique tobacco, run through with a delicate oily quality that adds body and weight. Bottling at just 40% makes for a relatively sedate whisky, typical of well-aged Islay with little to no dilution required. Ardbeg completionists should find it a fascinating and rewarding experience.
Get a free Ardbeg Day 2024 t-shirt with every bottle purchased while stocks last.
Request your size in the Special Instructions field in the checkout. Sizes are subject to availability, if we do not have your size Nicks will select the closest available.

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Ardbeg Anthology The Unicorn's Tale Very Rare 14 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Islay, SCOTLAND
$240. 00
Bottle
$2880.00 Dozen

ABV: 46%

The Ardbeg age statements return, this time marrying whiskies matured in a combination of aromatic Madeira casks and bourbon barrels. Syrupy sponge pudding and tropical baked fruits mingle with peat smoke, cedarwood and camphor. 46% Alc./Vol. Non chill-filtered.
Other reviews... No, no, no, enough of these far-fetched tales! And why is everyone so enamoured with ex-Madeira casks these days? Colour: straw. Nose: rather fresh and quite simple, with lovely notes of smoked almonds, followed by putty and tar. It appears that the Madeira has mellowed this Ardbeg into something rather gentle and polite. A few hints of new rubber boots as well. Mouth: fairly light, with a touch of sweetness (white clover) and a bit of tar liqueur. A slight medicinal edge, then tinned peaches and almond milk. Finish: of medium length, soft, gentle, and saline. Some periwinkles and white wine. Touches of mercurochrome and ashes in the background. Comments: the softer side of Ardbeg peat. An easy, agreeable Ardbeg, perfect for sharing with guests who aren't whisky geeks. Perhaps they will become so after this? I did slightly prefer the 13 yo Harpy’s Tale, though. Yet more Tales. 86 points - whiskyfun.com
Notes from the producers... Aroma: Rich, sweet, aromatic and fruity, baked banana bread and syrupy sponge pudding fill the senses. Notes of treacle trot into a distinctive whiff of burning cedarwood. A splash of water releases a bounty of tropical fruits. Eucalyptus oil mingles with soft, aromatic smoke. Taste: Zesty notes of lime and sweet peaches canter across the palate. A burst of rich smoked fruit and baked bread prance into antiseptic lozenges, creosote, and aniseed. Soft barley malt combines with nutmeg and peat smoke. Finish: The influence of these rare Madeira casks is undeniable. A whimsically smoky finish welcomes a long and lingering aftertaste of menthol, clove, wood smoke and camphor.

Delivery Information
- 94
2000 Ardbeg Vintage_Y2K 23 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Islay, SCOTLAND
$1699. 00
Bottle
$20388.00 Dozen

ABV: 46%

"A glitch in the Ardware" reads the inside of the futuristic presentation box. Welcome to the first in a new limited edition series, created during a milestone year at Ardbeg. Each one will represent a different side of the distillery with no two whiskies alike. ‘Y2K’ is pronounced ‘Year-Two-K’. While the year 2000 will be remembered by many for bootcut jeans, flip phones and the elusive millennium bug, it went down in Ardbeg history for very different reasons. Following decades of neglect, the Distillery had been saved from extinction by The Glenmorangie Company in 1997 and meticulously restored. As the clock ticked over from 1999 to 2000, Ardbeg was returning to full production. And while the rest of the world partied, with many distilleries shut down in fear of computerised chaos, its dedicated stillmen stayed up all night to keep the spirit flowing.
Crafted with some of the very first spirit of the millennium, the inaugural edition in the Ardbeg Vintage Y2K series is unlike anything before. It was distilled in the historic still which served Ardbeg for 51 years, before being retired in 2001. And with an increased rigour applied to cask selection under the new ownership, the whisky was laid down in some of the finest bourbon and Oloroso sherry casks around. The result is a single malt jampacked with bright zesty notes and intensely sweet, sooty flavours – a smoky anomaly never to be repeated. Aromas of lemon balsam reminisce with linseed oil and heather honey, while soot and peppermint stir up memories of ground coffee and aniseed on the palate.
Says Dr Bill Lumsden, Master Distiller, "Ardbeg Vintage Y2K is a phenomenal souvenir of a pivotal year at Ardbeg. Crafted at the dawn of a new era in our historic still, this ultra-rare whisky has been stowed carefully at the Distillery ever since. Herbal, citrusy and sweet on the nose, before soot, peppermint and coffee explode on the palate, this retro collectors’ classic is pure Ardbeg nostalgia.”
Other reviews... Distilled in Ardbeg’s historic still that was retired in 2001 after 51 years of service, this vintage has a sweet and zesty nose with coal soot, honey-lemon lozenges, Peppermint Pattie, and traces of black licorice. Silky smooth on the tongue, with sweet vanilla, lemon, peppermint creams, doughnut custard, ashy peat smoke, and orange pith, with creamy coffee, aniseed, and vanilla on the finish. No water needed. 94 points - whiskyadvocate.com
Notes from the producers... Colour: Pale amber. On the nose: Herbal, sweet and fragrant, with a distant, subtly fragrant smokiness. A closer look reveals tangy notes of lemon balm, linseed oil and candied walnuts. Theflavourintensifies with a splash ofwater, followed by notes of heather honey, creosote and some tarpaulin. On the palate: A tingling, sorbet-like structure, vibrating on the tongue. The initialflavouris intensely sweet, with a burst of aniseed, toffee, digestive biscuits, peppermint, menthol, tar and coffee grounds. Sooty and tarry flavours then develop. Finish: The long, lingering aftertaste reveals notes of antiseptic lozenges, bitter orange peel andoaktannins.

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1998 Ardbeg Single Cask No.1275 Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Islay, SCOTLAND
$1999. 00
Bottle
$23988.00 Dozen

ABV: 55.4%

Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product pictured. This one, in particular, has some impact crumpling to the front, bottom edge. See picture.
A single cask selection from a from first fill bourbon barrel, cask #1275 was limited to just 252 bottles. 55.4% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered. Collectable.
Other reviews... Colour: white wine. Nose: punchy, starting in an unusual way, on hints of green olive and even capers on top of a peatiness that isn’t huge but certainly bigger than the SMWS’. The rest is rather classic young Ardbeg, without any big bourbonny notes. Seawater, peat smoke, kippers and freshly cut apples. With water: more of the same, with an emphasis on the coastal notes and a little mint kicking in. Mouth (neat): powerful and very, very ‘Ardbeg’. Ashes, liquorice, smoked salmon, pepper, ‘raw’ peat, tar, green apples and a little salt. Not really complex but impressively punchy if you like them young. With water: clean, classic young Ardbeg, on apples, peat, pepper, marzipan, gentian and seashells. Finish: quite long, with quite some saltiness and notes of walnut skin as well as a little eucalyptus and lemon balm. Faint earthiness. Note that the finish is more pleasant when undiluted. Comments: very ‘young Ardbeg’, that is to say quite simple but very satisfying. I guess a good way of coming up with more complexity would be to marry various kinds of casks, including sherry. Hey, you could even call that Rollercoaster. 85 points - whiskyfun.com

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2011 Ardbeg Single Cask No.2198 Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Islay, SCOTLAND
$1999. 00
Bottle
$23988.00 Dozen

ABV: 60.2%

Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product pictured.
Single cask Ardbegs offer amplified distillery character. They're highly desirable but rarely surface. This particular release was distilled in August 2011 and left to age in a first-fill bourbon barrel for six years before bottling at cask strength in July 2018 with an outturn of 256 bottles. 60.2% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered. Collectable.

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Ardbeg Anthology The Harpy's Tale Very Rare 13 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Islay, SCOTLAND
$250. 00
Bottle
$3000.00 Dozen

ABV: 46%

The inaugural release in Ardbeg's new series.
Noteworthy as a more affordable Ardbeg and with a proper age statement, the Harpy's Tale is the first whisky in the distillery’s new Anthology collection that focuses on unusual maturation styles. For this edition, it's a smoky-sweet hybrid marrying single malts matured in Sauternes wine casks with Ardbeg aged in x-bourbon wood. Sauternes casks are not common on Islay, though they have been used by Kilchoman and Bunnahabhain, amongst others. Dr. Bill Lumsden, Director of Distilling and Whisky Creation, said, “We have embarked on a bold maturation experiment to fuse Ardbeg’s signature smokiness with more nuanced, sweeter notes for our new release... This is a dram that represents a battle between sweet and smoke – one I believe fans are yet to experience in an Ardbeg dram, and one that I’m sure they will be excited to taste for themselves. Collectively, the whiskies in the Anthology Collection will form a legendary, perfectly balanced and delicious series of rare and unusual Ardbegs, rich in both lore and taste. We look forward to revealing more in the Collection in the near future.”
The naming pays homage to the mixing of styles; in Greek and Roman mythology a harpy is half-human, half-bird. Ardbeg's marketing team have done another nice job extending the theme to the packaging with a striking design. 46% Alc./Vol. Non-chill filtered.
Other reviews... With The Harpy’s Tale, Ardbeg has crafted another winner, though — huge caveat — fans of heavier, peat-forward Ardbeg whiskies will not likely be pleased. The nose isn’t immediately distinct, offering a fairly traditional chimney soot profile with quite a slug of camphor in the mix. While lightly minty, with some barrel char notes showing, there’s no evidence of the Sauternes cask on the nose, which is a slight letdown. That changes on the palate. Here, the whisky immediately showcases a much softer side, with notes of green table grapes, coconut water, and lemon curd — all informed by a rather gentle layer of smoke. Notes of grapefruit peel lead into an increasingly bright finish that evokes the honeyed, apricot-laced quality endemic to Sauternes. Mildly sweet but not overblown, there’s a suggestion of chocolate and even a touch of coffee bean on the finish, making for a complex but completely effusive and enjoyable experience. Definitely a whisky I’d love to explore in more depth. - drinkhacker.com
"On the nose, find earthy smoke, brine, salt spray, and iodine, backed by toffee chews. The palate moves into a sweeter and fruitier direction, with dark chocolate covered raspberries, strawberry Jolly Ranchers, honey, and treacle. The finish is short, and offers molasses, furniture polish, peppermint, peat, prunes, allspice, and oak." 89 points - distiller.com
Notes from the producers... Smoked lemon peel soars alongside balsamic vinegar, before fresh apricots roll and bank into notes of tarry rope. First imagined only as a flight of fantasy, this is a spirit that achieves the ultimate equilibrium between sweetness and smoke. A rare beast Ardbeg indeed…

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Ardbeg BizarreBQ Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Islay, SCOTLAND
$149. 99
Bottle
$1799.88 Dozen

ABV: 50.9%

The consensus on the bloggersphere is that this is one gimmicky Ardbeg that actually works! You start with a hare-brained idea, you bring together three unique casks, two masters in their own right, and a whole lot of heat and smoke… what do you get? You get Ardbeg’s first ever barbecue-inspired whisky. Cooked up by renowned Master Distiller, Dr Bill Lumsden, alongside bona-fide god of the grill, Christian Stevenson (AKA DJ BBQ), fire has been the vital element in creating the malt. Toasting a selection of three casks; double charred oak casks, Pedro Ximénez sherry casks and BBQ casks, this combined recipe comes together to bring a sweet, tangy, smoky flavour. Collectors will love the 1930s cartoon-style label which encapsulates ‘grilling meets distilling’. Drinkers will appreciate the higher ABV - and the reasonable asking price when compared to several recent Ardbeg NAS bottlings. 50.9% ABV. Non-chill filtered.
Notes from the producers... Nose: Puffs of charcoal and soot mingle with smoky wood and aromatic herbs and spices. Treacle toffee, hickory smoked ham and cinnamon-dusted espresso rise up. A splash of water releases distinctively sharp citrus aromas, along with herbal notes such as fennel and aniseed. Grilled artichokes and a suggestion of seared meat sizzles the senses. The undeniable smell of bonfire and BBQ embers lingers in the background. Palate: The mouthfeel is alive with spice, like BBQ ribs smothered in chilli. A myriad of deep, warming smoke follows close behind in flame-grilled steak, chilli oil, cured leather and clove. Ginger, aniseed and tar crackle on the palate with an aromatic woodsmoke edge. Finish: The massive, hot aftertaste lingers on and on, with more grilled artichoke, black olives and a sooty note that slowly simmers away.

Delivery Information
- Nick's Import
- Reduced
Ardbeg Smoketrails Manzanilla Edition Single Malt Scotch Whisky (1000ml) with Free Ardbeg T-shirt

Islay, SCOTLAND
Reduced from $310.00
$249. 99
Bottle
$2999.88 Dozen

ABV: 46%

Get a FREE Ardbeg t-shirt with every order containing a Smoketrails purchase. Maximum one t-shirt per order.*
The first edition in Ardbeg’s inaugural travel retail series. One litre, 46% NCF.
'Smoketrails' is the name for Ardbeg's new and first-ever collection of single malts exclusively dedicated to the travel market. Launched in late 2022 with annual batches in the pipeline, each edition will be a marriage of Ardbeg aged in American oak with Ardbeg matured in secondary casks sourced from around the world. This is the first edition, employing Manzanilla (dry) Sherry casks from Sanlúcar de Barrameda on Spain’s Atlantic coast. Light and fresh in style, Manzanilla sherries are aged close to the sea and are typically bone dry with a salty tang - well matched to Ardbeg's island profile.
Distillery Manager, Colin Gordon says, “For each Smoketrails release we’ll pack our suitcase and zig zag across the globe in search of new flavour adventures...With a unique batch code on this and future bottlings, we hope Ardbeggians will jump at the chance to get their hands on this delectable, collectable dram when they are on their travels.”
Ardbeg’s Master Distiller, Dr Bill Lumsden adds “In Ardbeg Smoketrails Manzanilla Edition, salty sea spray and deep, nutty notes mingle with pungent aromas of soot, dark chocolate and Brazil nuts. Clouds of pine and fennel fill the senses with notes of saddle soap and aniseed trailing gently behind. All I have to say to anybody who lays their hands on a bottle is… get ready for a smoky blast!” Available at selected airports around the globe, we've sourced a small parcel for Australian devotees who might otherwise miss out. 46% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.
Other reviews... I've just seen that this one is still available in travel retail, for a price that's much lower than in regular shops. They were having dozens at Basel airport just last week, for example. It is a vatting of ex-American oak (Heaven Hill?) and ex-manzanilla casks. I remember some superb ex-fino Ardbeg around Feis 2005, but I'm not sure we've already tried some ex-manzanilla 'beg. But was Dr Bill's idea to add saltiness to saltiness? Let's see, while it's mentioned on the label that it should display some 'saddle soap'… Remember horses are another specialty of Jerez… Colour: straw. Nose: frankly, the territory of an (unsherried, ha) Ardbeg and that of some manzanilla are so close to each other that I'm finding this nose particularly tautological. Fresh walnuts shouting out, green apples and lemons, some chalk, a touch of mustard, sea spray, fresh almonds and chalk, then only a wee touch of mutton suet or something like that. Having said all that and while it's classic Ardbeg in my book, it is not really 'big'. Mouth: perhaps a little too much grittiness, fresh oak at first, making it bitterish (bell pepper, walnut skin), but also loads of salt, as expected. It feels young for sure. Cold ashes, lemon skin, tart cider apples, lemon jellybeans… I find it relatively simple, but Ardbeggy enough. Finish: rather long, still salty. Or, let's say it triggers a lot of saltiness. Walnuts and mustard in the aftertaste. Comments: now, what to do with a litre of this, if you've also got a bottle of the superior Ten in your cabinet? And I'm afraid I couldn't recognise any notes of saddle soap, but that is me. Don't get me wrong, it's some very good Ardbeg that we could quaff with langoustines on the shore of the Guadalquivir, in Sanlucar. 86 points - whiskyfun.com
Notes from the producers... Nose: Lemon peel. Gentle smoke, not too peaty, more bonfire than medical. Some fruity notes. Taste: Sweet, toffee notes, milk chocolate, then the citric notes from the nose are coming back. Smoke is rather gentle. Finish: Long. Now reconcilable peaty, yet sweet.
*Please request your preferred t-shirt size in the Special Instructions field of the checkout. T-shirt sizes are subject to availability and we cannot guarantee we will have your size. If no t-shirt size is requested it will be selected at random.

Delivery Information
- 90
- Not gift boxed
Ardbeg Heavy Vapours Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Islay, SCOTLAND
$250. 00
Bottle
$3000.00 Dozen

ABV: 46%

Ardbeg's latest annual offering comes with a curious title that's due to a production modification. Head of Whisky Creation, Bill Lumsden removed the purifier, which typically catches the heaviest vapours from the distillation process. The purifier is also responsible for Ardbeg’s balance between extreme peat and floral fruitiness. The resulting whisky is "all peat". In fact, Ardbeg says that it's their most full-blown expression ever with an intensity of flavour that's unmatched. A spokesperson for the brand describes the flavour profile as, "Defined by a distinctive pungent earthiness, aromatic clouds of dark chocolate, a billow of aniseed and cinnamon, and a lingering tang of sharp peppermint." Dramface.com add "According to an interview Lumsden participated in for WhiskyCast, the experiment which gave birth to this year’s release was conducted 12 years ago. Even allowing for time of year and the time taken to dump casks, blend, package and distribute, it’s safe to assume this bottling is at least 11 years old, given that Lumsden claims the experiment was only ever conducted in one batch." We've just received our allocation. The whisky's unusual conception is brought to life with accompanying graphics created by celebrated comic artist and illustrator, Dilraj Mann.
The nose is slightly reticent while the flavour profile leans towards smokey dark chocolate, oily malt, chimney soot and white pepper followed by a dried herbal quality. The aftertaste is ashy, drying, medium long and vaguely fruity in a mezcal kind of way. Like last year's Ardbeg Day release (Ardcore), Heavy Vapours is not quite as intense or complex as anticipated, although it does taste slightly more mature and feels like the texture is amplified, particularly at the finish where cured meats and a salt'n'pepper tang recall middle-weight Caol Ilas. In a word, more elegant than "extreme". 46% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.
Other reviews... I don’t know enough about the role of the purifier in distillation to predict for myself how the lack of one might impact a finished whisky, but damn if I’m not willing to give it a try. So let’s sally forth. Reviewed here is the standard release at 92 proof. The Committee Release is bottled at 100.4 proof. Extremely light in color, even for Ardbeg, the whisky looks innocuous enough in the glass. The classic aroma of beach bonfire smoke of Ardbeg wafts immediately from the glass, tempered by light touches of milk chocolate, overripe fruit, and some salted caramel — though these are all difficult to parse in the wake of a moderately intense blast of peat. The palate does see a more complex complement of flavors coming into focus, including mint, a clearer tropical note — pineapples and some coconut — with plenty of ashy dustiness waiting in the wings. Strangely, all of this works together in a bizarrely compelling fashion, the peat becoming earthy and smoldering, any overt smokiness taking a back seat as fruity sweetness makes a stronger impact. A briny quality offers a surprising level of refreshment on the finish, pairing well with both fruit and lingering smokiness. For my money, this is considerably more classically balanced than the standard Ardbeg bottlings — though what exactly is meant by “balance” in the world of peated Scotch is open for interpretation. All told, this is a decidedly delicious representation of Ardbeg. I say take that purifier and throw it out, Bill! - drinkhacker.com
...More NAS and more stories. I mean, really, stories, about that purifier we keep mentioning here too, and a certain 'agent 46'.. There's a QR code on the presentation box and bottle that should have allowed us to follow that 'agent 46' but from France it seems that we're just led to the generic Ardbeg website. Anyway, this is young Ardbeg that's been distilled 'without' the purifier on, as many batches have in the past already, but this very one is supposed to be 'the most full-blown Ardbeg ever'. Let's check that now… Colour: very pale white wine. Nose: very pure and feeling ultra-young, totally on mash, smoked beer, green pears, stewed turnip, creosote, petrichor and our new favourite since we've tried some in the Schwarzwald only two days ago, topinambour (Jerusalem artichoke) eau-de-vie or Schnaps, which is very rooty and earthy indeed. Mouth: excellent, if a tad rough and probably immature. More Jerusalem artichoke and turnip, smoky mashes and washes, a feinty side indeed and then certainly more fruitiness (so much for the purifier been shunted). Apples, lemon liqueur, light honey (acacia), liquorice allsorts and a drop of pastis. A moderate saltiness and notes of sweet beetroot too. Finish: pretty longer, fruity and salty. Comments: did they not just invent peated pastis? As a matter of fact, it would take a lot of water with resolve and even desire (what?) but it's not really heavy, I'd have called it 'Mizuwari Reserve' or 'Islay Pastis' instead. Do the advertising agencies taste the products? 88 points - whiskyfun.com

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Ardbeg Traigh Bhan 19 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - Batch 4

Islay, SCOTLAND
$499. 00
Bottle
$5988.00 Dozen

ABV: 46.2%

Released in early 2022 but only recently landed in Australia, the highly allocated Traigh Bhan Batch TB/04-07.03.2003/22.CG continues a running theme, with a lengthy maturation in a combination of American oak and oloroso sherry casks - although the proportion of the latter is slightly increased in this edition. Bottled in much smaller quantities than the rest of the core range "under a full moon", as noted on the front label, it arrives non chill filtered at 46.2% Alc./Vol.
Traigh Bhan is now firmly in collector-land. Consequently, few tasting notes are available. If you're looking to add to your collection or just want to find out what well-aged Ardbeg tastes like, don't hesitate on this offer. For those new to the label, the name is a reference to the local Traigh Bhan beach on Islay, which is known as the 'Singing Sands'. Each batch is intended to be slightly different from the last due to minor changes in cask selection. Expect rich wood smoke and menthol alongside bolder flavours of cayenne pepper and aniseed.
Notes from the producers... NOSE: On the nose, rising aromas of herbal pine and fennel flow into sharp notes of citrusy lime sorbet and medicinal lozenge, while eucalyptus and saddle soap follow on the breeze. A splash of water releases a cascade of hazelnut, sweet vanilla, and currants, before rich minted chocolate brings the nose to a close. TASTE: An intense wave of wood smoke crashes over the palate, leaving ripples of decadent dark chocolate and ground coffee in its wake. Sweeter notes of lemon curd and peanut brittle cut through the swell to reveal delicate hints of creamy raisin fudge and hazelnut. The allure of this rare dram continues with suggestions of more medicinal, spicy notes. Menthol, fresh lemongrass, aniseed, clove and white pepper emerge from rich, smoky depths. FINISH: Sweet and peat collide with creamy vanilla fudge, dark cocoa powder, and a warm, woody clove tingle. A sharp, intense, and satisfyingly long finish.

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- 92
- 84
Ardbeg Arrrrrrrdbeg Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Islay, SCOTLAND
$499. 00
Bottle
$5988.00 Dozen

ABV: 51.8%

Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some light creasing/scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product not pictured.
Other reviews... Fully matured in rye barrels. Butterscotch, almond paste, shortbread, lemon cake, and vanilla frosting on the nose—bakery aromas integrating with notes of crushed seashells and briny peat. The palate is soft, honeyed, and sweet, offering flavors of candied orange slices, iced tea, chocolate, and sugared espresso as a more pronounced peat influence emerges. A lengthy finish, as the peat drifts into the background, leaving a delicious pot of honey, candied fruit, and dark chocolate. 92 points - whiskyadvocate.com, reviewed by: David Fleming 2021

Delivery Information
- 90
Ardbeg Ardcore Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Islay, SCOTLAND
$240. 00
Bottle
$2880.00 Dozen

ABV: 46%

Another Ardbeg Day release arrives, bottled once and never to be repeated. This time around, it's created with roasted black malt - a first for Ardbeg. Incinerated to within an inch of its life, the malt defines the profile contributing charcoal and sweet smoke, aniseed and dark chocolate for a memorable Islay experience. Trumping past releases, Ardbeg's marketing department has gone to considerable lengths for the new edition, this time focusing on the brand’s alleged punk past, with Islay’s main port, Port Ellen, going by the nickname ‘Punk Ellen’ in the 1970s. (There was even a punk posse led by the local hotelier's daughter, which reached as many as three at the height of its notoriety). Meanwhile, Ardbeg’s head of distilling and whisky creation, Dr. Bill Lumsden, describes the flavour as being “like biting on a spiky ball.” Collectors will love it, with the story and presentation being a hook for followers of the brand. The limited edition main release has landed (as opposed to the even more limited Committee Release) and as is always the case, it comes bottled at 46% and non chill filtered.
The first sniffs bring young distillate to the fore, so from a fresh bottle give this a good ten minutes and you'll get a moderate lift of menthol-infused peat that also hints at anise, fennel and rye bread receding into sweeter smoke and vanilla malt with further air contact. It's medium bodied and sweetly peaty (think Caol Ila); hints of Elastoplast mingle with chocolate sponge cake and sprinklings of pepper; the finish is ashy and warming with citrus tang lacing late malt sweetness. Overall, in spite of the presentation and marketing, this is much more civilised and approachable than you might expect.
Notes from the producers... Spicy and savoury, Ardcore grips the senses with waves of marmite, burnt toast, chicory charcoal and infused coffee grounds making for a mosh pit in the glass. Like a safety pin through the septum, a classic Ardbeg herbal top note is present, while swirling, smoky bonfire and molasses loiter backstage. TASTE: A jaw dropping spicy and fiery mouthfeel leads to an explosion of rich, smoky flavours – cocoa powder, dark chocolate, peanut brittle toffee, smoked lime and a suggestion of soot and bonfire embers all pogo in unison on the palate. Amped up aniseed and malty biscuit elbow their way to the fore, punkturing taste buds. FINISH: In an altogether sweeter finish, long, lingering notes of treacle toffee, soot and smoke make for an anarchic, but delicious, aftertaste.

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Ardbeg Fermutation Committee Release 13 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)

Islay, SCOTLAND
$399. 00
Bottle
$4788.00 Dozen

ABV: 49.4%

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

Age statements and transparency seem to be returning to official Ardbeg releases. This new Committee-only offering highlights the impact of the longest fermentation in the distillery's history. Many loyal Ardbeggians have been particularly excited about 'Fermutation', the result of a happy accident in 2007 when a boiler broke down. It led to an unplanned experiment, as six washbacks with tens of thousands of litres of fermented wort sat waiting to be distilled. In the end it took three weeks before the boiler was repaired and distilling could commence (for context, most Ardbeg is only fermented for 72 hours, making three weeks unchartered territory). Director of Whisky Creation, Bill Lumsden had always intended to trial longer ferments, describing the resulting dram as "...tasting like pure science fiction. Peat and smoke meld beautifully with fresh, floral flavours, while sharp, more malty notes give Ardbeg Fermutation a uniquely zingy profile.”
“Blind luck is sometimes just part of the way we do things here at Ardbeg,” added Colin Gordon, Ardbeg’s Distillery Manager. “But the creation of Fermutation wasn’t simply good fortune. Quick thinking, ingenuity and a little assistance from tiny beings in the atmosphere helped us get here. At 13 years old, this is of course an aged Ardbeg – something I’m sure our fans will be delighted to get their hands on.”
Once again, the distillery marketing team have gone for a quirky sci-fi pulp-novel look and feel, which compliments several other releases to date - and sort of makes sense, given just how different this whisky is reported to be. Bottled non chill filtered at 49.4% Alc./Vol. Extremely limited stocks.
Notes from the producers... Nose: Fresh, floral, herbal and tart. Hints of mixed herbs and cedar wood. Very zesty, vibrant, hints of smoked orange and grapefruit, lots of menthol and peppermint. With water, powerful bursts of diesel oil, tar, fresh paint and aniseed. As this dies down, a memory of freshly cut hay, and the tiniest hint of something savoury, like yeast extract or bread dough. Taste: A lively, vibrant, sharp, ‘zingy’ texture, leading into very firm, distinctive flavours – malty/biscuit tones, powerful aniseed, cardamom, antiseptic lozenge, sweet mint toffee and cigar ash. Finish: Finally, a lingering, salty, firm aftertaste of mint, tar, oak tannin & leather.

Delivery Information
- Limit One per customer
Ardbeg Traigh Bhan 19 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - Batch 3

Islay, SCOTLAND
$499. 00
Bottle
$5988.00 Dozen

ABV: 46.2%

Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product not pictured.
Last year's release was summed up by Head Whisky Creator Dr. Bill Lumsden as "The epitome of Ardbeg". Batch 3 continues that theme, with a lengthy maturation in a combination of American oak and oloroso sherry casks. Bottled in much smaller quantities than the rest of the core range, Batch 3 is also the first in the series to be signed by new Distillery Manager, Colin Gordon since Mickey Head's recent retirement, and the first release in Ardbeg's history to be bottled "in a lockdown", as noted on the front label.
Traigh Bhan is now firmly in collector-land. Consequently, few tasting notes are available (with the exception of Angus from whiskyfun.com who confirms a high standard has been maintained. See below). If you're looking to add to your collection or just want to find out what well-aged Ardbeg tastes like, don't hesitate on this offer. For those new to the label, the name is a reference to the local Traigh Bhan beach on Islay, which is known as the 'Singing Sands'. Each batch is intended to be slightly different from the last due to minor changes in cask selection. Lumsden comments, “The main difference with Batch 3 is that it has been imbued with an altogether more fragrant, spicy character.” Expect zesty lime and walnuts alongside bolder flavours of cayenne pepper and aniseed. 46.2% Alc./Vol. Non chill-filtered.
Other reviews... The latest batch I believe. Is it just me, or are these batch numbers are longer than Bill Lumsden's joke book? Colour: pale gold. Nose: a highly aromatic and scented type of peat smoke that feels quite wispy, soft and permeating with impressions of sandalwood, furniture polish and crushed sea shells. Also things like smoked tea, menthol tobacco, myrtle and heather beer. Even though I suppose this is early 2000s Glenmorangie produced batches now, it feels more reminiscent of the 1990s Allied style. Which is quite reassuring in many ways. Mouth: pepper, smoked olive oil, very tarry, a lot of hessian, smoked cereals and some struck flints and other rather punchy mineral touches. In time it evolves these big camphor aspects but also quite a lot of dried herbs, aniseed, dried lime peel and hardwood resins. Finish: medium and with this warming peppery and peaty side (which seems to be an increasing hallmark of these modern Ardbeg), leather, pine cones, wood smoke and a little more aniseed. Comments: excellent whisky, no doubt about it. But perhaps the 8 was a tad more impressive simply by virtue of its youthful zest. Anyway, we're splitting hairs - this is lovely. 90 points - whiskyfun.com
Notes from Ardbeg.... Nose: In this whisky, faint waves of scented woodsmoke mingle with sea spray and pine resin. Wisps of aniseed toffee and sweet lilies follow on the breeze while fresh citrus zest laps over notes of cayenne pepper. With a splash of water, waxy notes and charcoal flow into droplets of classic Sherry and linseed oil. Palate: A rush of rich, sappy textures is followed moments later by classic sweet smokiness. Tarry rope and treacle toffee plunge the palate into a second wave of soot and aniseed twists. Smoke bobs on the horizon, while smoked brown sugar, walnuts and spices gently dissolve away. Finish: A long, unhurried finish carries bitter almonds and clove in its wake, before slowly drifting away.

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Whisky and Scotland inseparably intertwined.

Made from the most elemental of ingredients, water and 100% malted barley, Single Malt Whisky has become inextricably woven into the fabric of Scotland's history, culture and customs. Indeed, there are few drinks which are so closely related to the land of their birth than Scotch (even though most distilleries nowadays are not actually owned by the Scots.)

Malt Whiskies, which differ considerably in flavour according to the distillery and region from which they come, tend to have a more pronounced bouquet and flavour than grain-heavy blended whiskies. By definition, malt whiskies are also single distillery, made by the one distiller in the one location. They offer something blends generally don't: a sense of time and place that translates into a one-of-a-kind flavour sensation influenced by the water source, the shape and size of the stills, the type of cask, age and the degree of peating. If you're new to whisky, it's worth reading our Scotch Whisky primer here.

How Single Malt Scotch suddenly became so popular...

90% of the single malt Scotch produced continues to be used to make blended whisky, and the proportion was once much higher than that. Glenfiddich's famous 'Special Reserve Pure Malt' was the whisky that introduced and popularised the bottling of Single Malts to the world. Glen Grant, Macallan and others followed suit and in the 1980s malts started to gain a reputation as a 'more authentic' product than blends. At the same time, the popularity of vodka and other spirits began threatening the market share. In response, blenders dropped their prices. Unfortunately, consumer's perceptions of blended whisky were also lowered. A sense of snobbery developed against the 'cheap' and 'inferior' blends. Unjustified as this was (and remains), it was a sequence of events that helped prepare the way for the current Single Malt boom. So successful has the rise of Single malt been that the industry has found itself in a position of deficit. Older malts are becoming increasingly rare and pricey, partly accounting for the present trend of N.A.S. ('No Age Statement') bottlings and limited edition collector releases.

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