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World Whiskies

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

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2019 Adelphi White Peak 5 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt English Whisky (700ml)

UNITED KINGDOM
$220. 00
Bottle
$2640.00 Dozen

ABV: 57.8%

Based in Derbyshire and founded in 2017, the White Peak Distillery debuted its first single malt in 2022. Adelphi have cottoned on to the quality from the get go. No doubt it's partly down to White Peak's unhurried approach. They start with local brewer’s yeast and an uncommonly long fermentation that captures a distinctive new make spirit before it goes into a cask. This youthful edition was distilled in 2019 and matured in a re-charred red wine barrique. It's described as a bit of a surprise, fantastically juicy with notes of red berries and almonds. The outturn was 323 bottles at 57.8% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

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Amrut Bagheera Sherry Cask Finish Single Malt Indian Whisky (500ml)

Bangalore, INDIA
$79. 99
Bottle
$959.88 Dozen

ABV: 46%

This 99% unpeated, NAS Amrut represents a new value in Indian single malt. At first taste, you could mistake it for Speyside Scotch. Light sherry features on the cocoa-dusted nose, followed by well-composed, medium-bodied flavours conjuring cinnamon and budding fruitiness (apricots and peaches); The finish dwindles, winding up leathery, delicate and slightly short. 'Bagheera' is Indian for black panther, and the animal is featured gliding across the label. 46% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... With the magnificent Mysore Palace on its label, and a nose of garam masala, overripe banana, coffee bean, hazelnut, and prune juice, this is definitely an Amrut to experience. Flavors ebb and flow through cereal notes, Agen prunes, raisins, vanilla essence, dried fruits, stewed apple, and dark autumnal fruits, all underpinned by glittering spicy base notes. It finishes with cola-flavored candy, dwindling sweetness, and encroaching leathery notes. (Editors' Choice) 91 points - whiskyadvocate.com
...I find it funny that they would have felt the need to tell you that this was made out of 99% unpeated and 1% peated malted barley. We do know that peat tends to dominate, even when in small proportions, but 1%? Or is this an homeopathic peater? Ha-ha, yet a new concept! Colour: gold. Nose: a few sulphury touches at first (from some sherry wood, not form those 1% I'm sure… or wait, am I wrong, Amrut?) then some mentholated raisins and salted fudge, bicycle inner tube, the old unused coal pit in the basement, ye auld fireplace... Mouth: I like it ten times better on the palate. And guess what, the peat does feel. Truffle and smoke, salted lemon marmalade, sweet Thai soup (coconut, coriander, pepper, bouillons…) Finish: long, still a little 'unusual', I would suppose we'll need a little time to get accustomed to this new homeopathic style, but there sure is a thing here. Bottom line, 1% feels a lot! Comments: I'm glad I tried this one. It reminds of Miles, remember, if you do a wee mistake, repeat it many times and everybody will applaud and believe you did it on purpose (loosely reported, of course he said it better). 84 points - whiskyfun.com

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Amrut Rye Single Malt Indian Whisky (700ml)

Bangalore, INDIA
$230. 00
Bottle
$2760.00 Dozen

ABV: 50%

Originally released in 2016, this is the first-ever Indian single malt rye. A subsequent batch followed in 2023, also limited to around 1200 bottles. It is malted, making this - although not technically in all countries - a single malt whisky. European rye was used with maturation taking place in American oak casks. Our tasting revealed a beautifully balanced whisky that departs from the intense spice and muddled mint character of many high proof American standards. This is more like chewing rye bread studded with dried peach or mango and is close to a sherried Scottish single malt in terms of mouthfeel. The finish brings forward a slightly oily aspect before turning drier and vaguely herbal with cocoa and the spiciness of the grain adding a closing zing. While it doesn't stand out in any particular way, it is an original and noteworthy addition to the category. 50% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... This is initially creamy to nose, but enticingly spicy on repeat visits, with aromas of cereal grains, rye bread, macadamia nuts, burnt bread crust, and hints of coffee bean. The flavors are delicious, and include caramel popcorn, apple, a snap of rye spices, toasted rye bread, dark chocolate, black tea, and a toffee sweetness that accompanies the spices into the finish. A compelling rye whisky that is definitely worth tracking down. 92 points - whiskyadvocate.com
...Didn't expect to see this, I have to admit. Though glad I did. No mistaking the grain, which is intense and deep. But Amrut have certainly carved their own personality onto this which is similar to some better North American ryes, Alberta being the closest. But there is a barely perceptible slant away from that into wholly new territory. 91.5 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2024
Notes from the producers... Aromas and flavours of freshly baked bread and something tropical seque into floral and spicy notes.

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- Australian Exclusive
2015 Amrut Single Cask #3897 Australian Exclusive Ex-Oloroso Sherry Butt 7 Year Old Single Malt Indian Whisky (700ml)

Bangalore, INDIA
$230. 00
Bottle
$2760.00 Dozen

ABV: 60%

In countries of warmer climes you don't have to wait too long for good whisky to mature. That doesn't mean great whisky is easily come by. Every barrel is different. Only a handful attain a singular classification - and that's if you can find and bottle them at just the right time. When Amrut's Head of Distilling, Ashok Chokalingam visited with a sample of 'Sherry butt #38977', it was clear it had become something of a pet project. Mollycoddled until the end, he didn't want to filter the whisky but didn't want all of the sediment either, so he 'dripped in' the required amount of water to cut it to 60%, one drop at a time over three days. The water pulled the sediment to the bottom and the liquid was syphoned into bottles. Utmost care was taken to retain all of the fats and oils that would have been lost via filtration, which is what gives this such a terrific mouthfeel. The rest is down to an extraordinary barrel. One taste and it dawns on you why Ashok and the importers fell in love with this particular cask: Sherry almost hits perfection. The aroma opens with classic Oloroso notes of fig and raisin before roasted nuts and cocoa become palpable as the fruit sweetness fades. The flavour explosion happens in slow motion, with Oloroso carried on a wave of creamy malt, capped off by mixed peels, orange chocolate, leather, walnut cake and a fanfare of allspice. A biscuity-saline edge adds interest (possibly from the lightly peated barley) before the sherry gets a second wind, significantly extending the aftertaste. Not only encapsulating the general excellence of this distillery, Butt #3897 demonstrates how some single casks - regardless of age - justify a premium when they outperform bottlings with much bigger age statements. Filled in July 2015 and decanted in December 2022, 216 bottles are on offer exclusively to Australia. 60% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

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Amrut Triparva Single Malt Indian Whisky (700ml)

Bangalore, INDIA
$199. 99
Bottle
$2399.88 Dozen

ABV: 50%

This is India’s first-ever foray into triple distilled single malt equating to just 5400 bottles worldwide. Of the global allocation, just a few hundred bottles have arrived to meet the demands of connoisseurs and collectors in Australia. Ashok Chokalingam, Head Distiller at Amrut comments, “Amrut has pretty much produced a range of uncompromisingly innovative single malt whiskies such as the Amrut Spectrum (multiple oak wood barrel single malt), Naarangi (a single malt with orange influence), Rye Single Malt to name a few. This latest addition of Triparva, triple distilled single malt, kind of completes the course. I think, for any distillery to come and do what Amrut has done in India will take a long time and the depth and variety of what Amrut has is unmatched. We are proud of what we have done so far and cemented our position as the ‘pioneers’ of single malt making in India.” Triparva is Hindi for "in three parts". Very limited stocks. 50% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... Nose: really fruity, as expected. Pineapple on syrup, banana, nectarine and guava. Close to Irish whiskey of course. There’s more than a hint of vanilla from the wood as well, with some ginger, mint and creamy coconut too. A luscious fruitiness and a classic ‘exotic’ whisky style further highlighted by the triple distillation. Mouth: same comments. Melons, bananas, mirabelles, then more tropical fruits like mango, guava and passion fruit. Pink grapefruit. Behind the fruits I find vanilla biscuits and cake, with hints of butterscotch and honey. A lightly earthy note in the background, as well as something that holds the middle between oaky and herbal. Finish: long, with this earthy and now slightly bitter wood influence becoming more noticeable now, alongside citrus and unripe banana. A tropical fruit bomb that could have been made in Ireland. If you like the old Teeling (Bushmills) casks, be sure to check this out. 90 points - whiskynotes.be

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Amrut Single Malts of India Kurinji Single Malt Indian Whisky (700ml)

INDIA
$159. 99
Bottle
$1919.88 Dozen

ABV: 50%

Kurinji, from the Single Malts of India label, is the second release from India's first-ever Independent bottler - Amrut. Eponymously sourced from a Kurinji or Mountainous region, it exhibits traits that uniquely spring from the locale and the purple-blue Kurinji flower that blooms once every twelve years. In short, sweet and floral with wafts of jasmine and honeysuckle. 50% Alc./Vol.
Notes from the producers.... NOSE: Floral and flowery notes with pear and melon, muscovado sugar, vanilla with an oak tone and a bit of toffee. TASTE: Honey and sherbet transcending to peat and melon with a very floral middle ground. FINISH: The finale is remarkable with a sweet and floral finish and a dusting of cracked pepper.

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Amrut Single Malts of India Neidhal Single Malt Indian Whisky (700ml)

Bangalore, INDIA
$149. 99
Bottle
$1799.88 Dozen

ABV: 46%

Amrut's new umbrella brand, ‘Single Malts of India’, sails into the unchartered waters of local independent bottlings to showcase some of the country's hidden gems. 'Neidhal' is the first in the series, and is a limited release of 12,000 bottles with 1200 bottles being allocated to India. The name references ancient Tamil texts, dating back to the Sangam period (300 BC – 300 AD), in which earth is classified into five regions called 'Tinais', each being associated with its own distinct literary style, grammar, mood, romance, culture and even cuisine. Neidhal comprises all oceans and neighbouring regions and the way of living associated with them.
Matured & bottled at Amrut, the source of the whisky is not disclosed. Whoever distilled it could well have taken inspiration from Ardmore, as this presents in a Highland smoke-guise while retaining a sparkle of coastal freshness. The aromas are mirrored on the palate where sweet smoke melts into even sweeter malt; super pure, the finish balances out with hints of mint chocolate, medicine chest, pepper and sooty peat. 46% Alc./Vol.
Notes from the bottlers... tropical fruit and vanilla punctuated by soft phenols and sea salt on the nose. On the palate, a fruit cocktail with a touch of iodine. The middle ground is an essay in chewability and a finish that is phenolic with a touch of sweet vanilla.

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Amrut Portonova Cask Strength Single Malt Indian Whisky (700ml)

Bangalore, INDIA
$220. 00
Bottle
$2640.00 Dozen

ABV: 62.1%

As the name suggests, this is a port version of Amrut’s Intermediate Sherry. The spirit is matured in both unused casks and bourbon casks, then spends a few months in port pipes, and then returns to bourbon casks. Described by Malt Advocate as a "port pipe sandwich...resulting in a Pink Floyd show of a whisky." A penetrating, gently prickly bouquet offers up aromas reminiscent of prune, pipe tobacco then sweeter scents of dates and dried red berries. Gently bittersweet entry. Peppery with a delicious sweet flourish of fruit cake and dark chocolate rounded off by cigar box through the fade. Huge. Easily one of the most compelling Port-finished whiskies we've tasted to date. 62.1% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... ...vibrant, colorful, complex, and nearly too much. A blackcurrant and wispy, smoky nose gives way to an intense and bittersweet mix of chili, blackcurrant, oak, damson, dark chocolate, and peat. Astounding. 92 points - whiskyadvocate.com, (Fall 2011) Reviewed by: Dominic Roskrow
....I have never come across such a flavour profile as this anywhere in the world. But my word, what a statement this makes... Unique. 62.1% Alc.Vol.
93 points - Jim Murrays Whisky Bible 2015

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Amrut Intermediate Sherry Matured Cask Strength Single Malt Indian Whisky (700ml)

Bangalore, INDIA
$220. 00
Bottle
$2640.00 Dozen

ABV: 57.1%

Note: Slight bruising to the top of the gift box.
Prejudice usually breeds ignorance, and admittedly, there was a time when even we found the idea of a distillery in India entering the domain of luxury spirits implausible. Now seven years on, perhaps more than any other world whisky, Amrut has changed the way people think about this category - mostly because the quality is simply impossible to ignore. The best examples from this distillery surpass your expectations at every level.
We'd been following the development of Amrut through the tasting notes of Jim Murray for some time, as the 2007 bottling earned 89 points with the closing statement "as 40% abv malts go - from any country - this is pretty spot on." In 2008 Amrut increased the ABV to 46% and much to Murray's delight ceased the use of caramel colouring, subsequently the whisky earned 91.5 points to cap off a salivating review. Amrut had our attention.
A selection of cask strength expressions have recently become available for Australian whisky enthusiasts, and the quality is first rate, to the extent that these stand out as bargains on the world whisky stage. They are a revelation to almost anyone who tastes them.
The present situation we're witnessing in India is in some ways akin to the early Japanese whisky industry. It remains a work in progress, and there are good reasons why it's taken decades to get this far.
"You have seen and understand India," a local observed to one visitor who recently toured Amrut. "We need grain to feed people. Whisky is not important and rightly it's not a priority. We use what we have."
He was indirectly referring to the vague and permissive laws which historically, saw almost 90% of Indian spirit produced from molasses. Blended malt styles often contained as little as 4% actual malt whisky. When Amrut was originally established in 1948 under the name of "Amrut Laboratories", it produced "rum" & "brandy" during the 50's and 60's. India was a huge market, but primarily at the lower end. Post-independence and with the liberalisation of licensing laws, Amrut's founder, Radhakrishna N. Jagdale, sensed an opportunity. “This is when he diversified into Amrut Distilleries, while also continuing with a division in the pharma industry,”recollects son, Jagdale who initiated the production of malt whisky during the 1980s.
Amrut turned the traditional Indian approach on its head. "We understood the importance and complex chemistry of [barrel] maturation, thanks to our chemists’ background,” adds Jagdale. They near perfected the production process, ironically, with guidance from the Scots.
But the company faced difficulties convincing consumers to try the product. Most believed that a good single malt could not be produced in India. To deal with the understandable prejudice, the company's early strategy targeted international markets, that would then, in theory, go on to ignite local demand given positive feedback. "We were confident of our single malt. From a marketing perspective, we thought if our product had to pass the test, why not do so in the toughest location. Scotland is the home of Scotch. If they acknowledge our single malt, then that’s good enough for me"said Jagdale. The group debuted its piece de resistance, Amrut Indian Single Malt, in Glasgow in 2004.
"It was all worth it", recalls executive director of the company, Jagdale Junior, "... We had our jaw-dropping moment when the host at Glasgow's famous Pot Still whisky pub served Amrut to a group of connoisseurs, without telling them where it was from. Each person named a different region of Scotland as the likely place of origin, but they were unanimous in their appreciation."
By the time Amrut launched in India in 2010, they were already selling fifteen variants of single malt to leading world retailers (Harrods, Selfridges across the UK,and Park Avenue Liquor Shop in New York, to name a few). It was risk that paid dividends on the brand's home ground.
Amrut is situated in Bangalore, India, 3000 ft above sea level with the water and barley being sourced from Punjab and Pajasthan. Though the maturation takes place high up above the city, hot weather makes whisky mature faster in India than it does in Europe or the United States. The fraction lost to evaporation during ageing, known as the angels' share, is also higher in India, at 11–12%, as opposed to Scotland, where the annual evaporative loss is about 2%. Most Amrut whiskies are reportedly less than 6 years old, yet a steady stream of awards have been left in their wake. The company is now in the envious position of keeping up with demand, without compromising their down to earth philosophy of always exceeding customer expectations. (Is their any other formula to successfully break into new markets?)
Fusion and Portonova remain the most popular whiskies in the portfolio. But at around 10,000 cases of malt whisky per year, Amrut is a relatively minor player. Demand from over 22 countries means allocations remain small. That may change. Let's hope the staggering quality currently on offer does not.
"Intermediate" is created by initially maturing Amrut spirit in a combination of ex-bourbon and new American oak casks, followed by a brief maturation in sherry casks before returning to ex-bourbon casks for its final stint - hence the name 'Intermediate Sherry'. No shortage of rave reviews, including a whopping 96.5 point score from Jim Murray. We have to agree on this one.
A full throttle, sherry-bourbon extravaganza!
Tasting note: Deep copper. Is this Sherry or Whisky?! Stunning purity in the complex, wound up layers of orange rind and fruit cake - even nutty, rancio like qualities - as close as you can get to an old-style Sherry bomb sans sulphur. Sensory magic as this continues to unravel a dense sweet core and the subtle spices add further complexity (cardomom / wasabi?) Creamy satiny entry introduces a barely bittersweet mid palate with a superbly balanced amalgam of dried fruit; Juicy raisin cake enters late followed by a drying, spicy finale that goes on and on...Fig cake and walnut laced vanilla carry the fade. A triumph. If you buy top shelf Sherried malt at two or three times the price but ignore this we don't know what to say. Undeniably a bargain on the world whisky stage.57.1% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews...96.5 Points - (n24.5); (t24); (f23.5); (b24.5) how do you get three freshly emptied oloroso butts from Jerez to Bangalore without the casks spoiling, and not use sulphur? Answer: empty two cases of Amrut cask strength whisky into each of the butts before shipping them. Not a single off note. No bitterness whatsoever. And the fruit is left to impart its extraordinary riches on a malt matured also in American Oak. Amrut is spoiling us again. - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2013

Delivery Information
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Amrut Kadhambam Single Malt Indian Whisky (700ml)

Bangalore, INDIA
$240. 00
Bottle
$2880.00 Dozen

ABV: 50%

In the Tamil dialect, Kadhambam means 'mixture' or 'combination'; Aptly named given this is matured in rum, sherry and brandy barrels resulting in a singular whisky. Polished copper. A densely packed aroma, as you come to expect from this distillery; a fusion of sweet spices, charry oak and nuttiness on the nose. Quite bound up. 3-4 minutes draws out a peaty aspect as smouldering cedar and burning pine cone (?) develop. Big but not overbearing with the weighty malt supported by lively peppers and dried fruit characteristcs in the mouth. Ends lightly acidic, tannic and chewy with woody cigar box notes and flashes of dried fruits in the fade. With everything seemingly happening at once, perhaps the definition is obscured. One barrel too many in the mix? 50% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... Proof, if it were still needed, that Amrut intends to cement its position as the leading innovator in world whisky. Kadhambam is the sweetest of Amruts, as a result of a complex maturation process that has seen peated Amrut matured in local brandy and rum casks. There's a liqueur-like edge to it as a result, but it's a complex malt, with cherry blossom, peppercorn, and apple peel in the mix. Not the distillery's best, but very, very drinkable. 89 points - whiskyadvocate.com (Spring 2014) Reviewed by: Dominic Roskrow

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Amrut Fusion Single Malt Indian Whisky (700ml)

Bangalore, INDIA
$109. 99
Bottle
$1319.88 Dozen

ABV: 50%

Amrut Fusion is produced from 25% Scottish peated barley and 75% locally grown Indian barley. This method of combining barley from different sources has been employed with outstanding results by Australian distilleries, Bakery Hill and Hellyer's Road.

A superb whisky.

Tasting Notes: Brilliant pale gold with a subtle green blush. Powerful, near perfumed aromas offers an abundance of barley and honey, judiciously harmonised against delicate, lanolin like peat (reminds one of certain bottlings from Highland Park). The palate is rich, warm and plush; sweet barley flavours invade every crevice of the mouth, followed by waves of spice front to back, though the balance is nothing short of perfection given the high ABV. Dark chocolate, drying, earthy peat kicks into the after taste while the spices persist. Seriously good whisky! 50% Alc/Vol.

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Amrut Peated Cask Strength Indian Single Malt Whisky (700ml)

Bangalore, INDIA
$169. 99
Bottle
$2039.88 Dozen

ABV: 62.8%

Established in 1948 by Radhakrishna N Jagdale under the initial name of Amrut Laboratories (a company which produced various alcoholic beverages for the Indian armed forces as well as the general market during the 50's and 60's, namely rum and brandy.)
The company was later passed on in 1976 to Radhakrishnas son, Neelakant Jagdale who initiated the production of malt whisky during the 1980's. At that time, whisky production in India was constituted by vague and permissive laws which saw almost 90% of the product consisting of molasses. Blended malt styles often contained as little as 4% actual malt whisky.
Over the years, Amrut turned this approach on its head, intent on creating a world class whisky that would compete with the likes of whisky from Scotland, and ironically with guidance from the Scots, they came to perfect the process. Award winning malts, such as the highly acclaimed ‘Amrut Fusion’ are the result.
The distillery itself is situated in Bangalore, India, 3000 ft above sea level with the water and barley being sourced from the Himalayan Mountains. Though the maturation takes place high up above the city, the warmer, tropical climate matures Amrut spirits far more quickly than in Scotland. Most Amrut whiskies are reportedly less than 6 years old. Along with award winning whiskies, the distillery also produces brandy, rum, vodka and gin.
Amrut peated malt is made with barley peated and malted in Scotland, but distilled in Bangalore and aged in a combination of new and old American oak barrels. This version packs a punch at full strength. A little water will go a long way in taming this beast. Not for the faint hearted!
Tasting Notes... Pale gold colour. The high spirit prickles the nostrils. Powerful aromatics include damp earth, terracotta, biscuit, manuka honey and lanolin. In the mouth, achingly intense spices compete with off dry, earthy peat; some burnt toffee apple sweetness enters, but the intense spices are relentless to the point of being mouth numbing. As the spice gradually subsides, kippery, Fishermen’s Friend flavours complete what is a stupendous whisky experience by any measure; ultimately invigorating, though the spice might be too much for those with an aversion to factor 5 curries. The careful addition of water would improve the overall balance, unfortunately our sample was too small to permit experimentation. 62.8%
Other Reviews...
92 Points - Jim Murray Whisky Bible 2011

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Arlett Blended French Whisky (700ml)

FRANCE
$89. 99
Bottle
$1079.88 Dozen

ABV: 40%

Aged for over three years in small American oak barrels, Arlett's blend is intended as an everyday sipper. Fresh vanilla notes on the nose, along with candied orange and baked bread feature on the rounded palate. Will work over ice or for stirring into cocktails. 40% Alc./Vol.

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Arlett Pineau Des Charentes Cask Finish Single Malt French Whisky (700ml)

FRANCE
$129. 99
Bottle
$1559.88 Dozen

ABV: 48%

While Arlett offer several wood-finished variants, this edition offers something out of the ordinary for whisky drinkers. It's appropriate that the Tessendier brothers selected their local apéritif as the support here, as they are firstly producers of premium Cognac. Just a few months in x-Pineau des Charentes casks has added secondary notes of dried apricots, wild honey and cinnamon to the cereal character of the whisky. The flavours complement the malt, becoming better defined and juicier through the finish. A higher ABV gives the palate more presence without adding heat or prickle, and there's also lovely sweet-dry balance. The most impressive finishing in the lineup, if Pineau des Charentes is your thing, this is your dram. 48% Alc./Vol.

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Arlett Original Single Malt French Whisky (700ml)

FRANCE
$119. 99
Bottle
$1439.88 Dozen

ABV: 40%

Arlett single malt is produced at France's Distillerie Tessendier, better known for their Cognacs. Three years maturing in American oak and x-bourbon barrels delivers a malt with moderate aromas of cereals, digestif biscuits and sweet nutty tones. Soft and accessible, the palate continues the cereal theme, adding sprinklings of milk chocolate, flaked almonds and toasted grains, closing with delicate bitter peel and cedary oak. 40% alc./vol.

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Bertrand Uberach Biersky 3 Year Old Eaux de Vie & Single Malt French Whisky Blend (500ml)

Alsace, FRANCE
$119. 99
Bottle
$1439.88 Dozen

ABV: 44.4%

[2017 release] Smelling like a barrel-aged grappa, this novel spirit blends Alsatian beer eau-de-vie with Alsatian malt whisky. It's oaky then fruity with spiced plum, mixed fruit muesli and raisins on the nose and early into the delivery. The middle stage is medium bodied with a creamy, appetising vibrancy, finishing more like a typical single malt, while the raisiny / grappa character returns through the aftertaste. Very European. 44.4% Alc./Vol. 393 bottles

Delivery Information
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Cardrona Distillery Full Flight Solera Cask Strength Single Malt New Zealand Whisky (375ml)

NEW ZEALAND
$149. 99
Bottle
$1799.88 Dozen

ABV: 62.8%

'Full Flight' is the final installment in Cardrona's Coming of Age series. Seven years in a marriage of specially selected ex-Oloroso Sherry butts and ex-Bourbon barrels delivers a fabulously rich experience at natural cask strength. Apparently Jim Murray is referring to a different batch below. The distillery explains, "For the Solera marriage we don’t distinguish. We have done a limited Single Cask release which was PX, but the Solera has both." There is lovely purity to this with the succulent dried fruits expressed in a juicy fashion, especially fresh, plump dried apricots and prunes overlaying the malt and vanillas. A relatively simple but very effective delivery that’s even better with water where the whisky really lands on its feet. 62.8% Alc./Vol. Non chill-filtered.
Other reviews... PX...!! It telegraphs the grape before you get within an inch of the glass. But the sweet fruit doesn't have all its own way... The first moment on the palate is so sweet . And salivating, too, especially when the malt starts to get amongst the action... I am not normally much of a fan of PX matured malt. But you have to give a nod of approval when something works well, as this does. 93 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2024

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2020 Ichiro's Malt Chichibu The First Ten Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

JAPAN
$2999. 00
Bottle
$35988.00 Dozen

ABV: 50.5%

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

Described as a "rockstar" of the Japanese Whisky Scene, Ichiro Akuto waited quite patiently to release Chichibu's first ever age statement bottling.

Born into a family that has produced Sake for over 300 years, Akuto took after his Grandfather, who started distilling Hanyu whisky in 1945. After accruing years of experience at the Suntory Distillery, Akuto re-opened the Hanyu distillery as Chichibu in 2008, buying back 400 barrels of Hanyu spirit to kick off production.
5000 bottles of this expression were produced, making it a decently exclusive bottling.

Other reviews...
Aroma - After a slight smell of cemedine, a sweet aroma of vanilla opens up. Herbaceous aroma.
Taste - Smooth mouthfeel. Pudding sweetness, bourbon-type oak sweetness plus citrus fruit. Rounded and gentle image. Finally, mint and other herbal notes escape.
Aftertaste - Mellow, gentle and elegant sweetness lasts moderately long.
Japanese Whisky Dictionary 2022

Delivery Information
- Nick's Import
Fuyu Mizunara Finish Blended Japanese Whisky (700ml)

JAPAN
$149. 99
Bottle
$1799.88 Dozen

ABV: 45%

Nicks import pricing. Elsewhere pay $190.
Fuyu means "Winter" in Japanese. This three year old blend is a run of around 6000 bottles made from 50% malt and 50% corn plus a little wheat from Honshu island. Initially aged in American oak barrels, before bottling it was transferred into Mizunara casks for six months, adding those elusive characteristics that makes this wood prized (and expensive). Suntory began to experiment with Japanese Oak (Quercus mongolica) after the Second World War when supplies of foreign oak were difficult to source. It made a far from ideal vessel: Mizunara's loose grains tended to cause leakage, and also created challenges in terms of timber selection and cooperage. Blenders at the time had few kind words to say about the wood. It's scarcer than European and American oak, notoriously expensive, and to top it off, the trees are harvested at around 200 years old (compared to around 75 for American/European oak).
For drinkers, the obvious question is "Does Mizunara oak give a distinctive flavour to whisky?" The consensus is that it tends to offer a more definite coconut aroma. Other sources suggest the wood contributes attractive sandalwood notes. According to the producers, in this bottling, expect notes of coconut, caramel, smoke, and cooked fruit. 45% Alc./Vol.

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- 92
- 91
Hellyers Road Distillery The Journeyman Single Malt Australian Whisky (700ml)

Tasmania, AUSTRALIA
$174. 99
Bottle
$2099.88 Dozen

ABV: 46.2%

The journey of this whisky refers to the American oak casks that travelled from the US to Tasmania, and likewise, Port casks from Portugal. The respective whiskies have then embarked on another journey of 'marriage.' Each small batch is aged for a minimum of seven years. Reminiscent of Hellyer's peated 15 year old, there are nuances of feijoa, elderflower, or perhaps pavlova to the nose and palate, ending with a fresh finish suggesting grapefruit and mixed spices. A likeable and individual style that seems to be distinctive to this distillery, and possibly, Penderyn. The port is influence is indiscernible. Tasted from a 50ml sample. 46.2% Alc./Vol. Non-chill filtered.
Other reviews... Hellyers Road Journeyman is a combination of old (12 years) whisky matured in ex-bourbon casks, generally providing a creamy texture and soft sweetness, and younger (5-year-old) whisky matured in ex-fortified wine casks for more fruity, tannin and youthful brightness. And boy, is it a combo that works. You can see how well Hellyer's spirit develops with time. Orange poppy seed cake dominates the nose with an almost liqueur-like intensity, the buttery sweetness drawing you right into the glass. The incredibly gentle palate makes this a supremely easy whisky to drink, but the maturity shines through with a long, easy finish and lingering menthol and oak. Great everyday drinking, although perhaps a touch expensive in that role. 91 points - James Halliday's Australian Wine Companion
Notes from the producers... Green leaf and honeyed black tea with a hint of orange blossom. Mid palate: Marmalade and seared winter berries. Finish: Smooth, long with lingering hints of nutmeg.

Delivery Information
- Reduced
Ichiros Malt & Grain World Blended Japanese Whisky (700ml)

JAPAN
Reduced from $180.00
$139. 99
Bottle
$1679.88 Dozen

ABV: 46.5%

Created by Ichiro Akuto at his Chichibu Distillery (est. 2004) using both local and imported whiskies, Ichiro's intention here is to offer a quality Japanese experience that's also affordable. Depending on your source, his own malt forms the base (1-3 year old Chichibu), combined with 3-5 year old whiskies from Scotland, Ireland, Canada and the US. The composition is vatted in two 5000-litre wooden barrels built by renowned French cooper, Taransaud. Non chill filtration and a decent ABV contribute added depth and mouthfeel resulting in a quintessential example of Japanese blending skill that's also food-friendly. 46.5% Alc./Vol.

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- Reduced
Karuizawa 1999-2000 Vintages The Masterpieces in Eight Colours 2nd Batch Cask Strength Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

JAPAN
Reduced from $9,999.00
$5999. 00
Bottle
$71988.00 Dozen

ABV: 52.1%

Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product pictured.
"The Masterpieces in Eight Colours” is a series of eight batches of Karuizawa presented in different traditional Japanese colours. The second in the series was matured in a Sherry Butt, bottled at 52.1% without chill filtration and packaged in purple. Kanji writing on the label is by calligrapher, Souun Takeda, one of the most famous Kanji artists in Japan. His artwork is highly praised for its innovative, yet traditional way of expressing the beauty of the Japanese language and spirit. Normally these very rare Karuizawas are sold as full sets of eight making the cost prohibitive for most collectors. At the time of writing, we have four of the series on offer which can be purchased separately. One only.

Delivery Information
- Reduced
Karuizawa 1999-2000 Vintages The Masterpieces in Eight Colours 4th Batch Cask Strength Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

JAPAN
Reduced from $9,999.00
$5999. 00
Bottle
$71988.00 Dozen

ABV: 48.5%

Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product pictured.
"The Masterpieces in Eight Colours” is a series of eight batches of Karuizawa presented in different traditional Japanese colours. The fourth in the series was matured in a Sherry Butt, bottled at 48.5% without chill filtration and packaged in blue. Kanji writing on the label is by calligrapher, Souun Takeda, one of the most famous Kanji artists in Japan. His artwork is highly praised for its innovative, yet traditional way of expressing the beauty of the Japanese language and spirit. Normally these very rare Karuizawas are sold as full sets of eight making the cost prohibitive for most collectors. At the time of writing, we have four of the series on offer which can be purchased separately. One only.

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Karuizawa x Kawasaki Ghost Series No. 7 "Time Slip" Blended Japanese Whisky (700ml)

JAPAN
$9999. 00
Bottle
$119988.00 Dozen

ABV: 43%

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

Using artwork from 19th-century Japanese artist Yoshitoshi Tsukioka's New Forms of Thirty-Six Ghosts, the Ghost Series from Nonjatta unfolds even more expressions from the Karuizawa distillery. Number 7 in the series, entitled "Time Slip", is one of the more unique bottlings. Blended back in the 1970s, this whisky contained both Karuizawa malt as well as Kawasaki grain distillate, which was laid down to rest under glass. Fast forward to the 1980s and the blend was transferred to ex-Karuizawa Spanish Oak for finishing, quite a long one at that being bottled in 2015. One of only 140 bottles, this looks to be one of the more drinkable releases from two legendary distilleries. Collectible.

Delivery Information
- 91
- Australian Exclusive
Kavalan Solist Peated Australian Exclusive Cask Strength Single Malt Taiwanese Whisky (700ml)

TAIWAN
$250. 00
Bottle
$3000.00 Dozen

ABV: 52.4%

A limited edition Solist exclusive to Australia. Only 144 bottles were produced from single cask R150414033A, however, there is a sister cask (032A) that was imported with the same claim to fame. Regardless of which was actually first, this represents the first-ever Kavalan Solist Peated Single Malt to be officially launched here. The combination of peated barley at a low 10PPM means the tropical notes of Kavalan aren't completely overwhelmed, instead the smoke augments what is a typically full-flavoured Solist expression, loaded with vibrant spices and finishing with a touch of fruit cake. It's not as complex or long as many an Islay, but if you enjoy Highlanders like Ardmore or young (peated) Benriach, you should like this. 52.4% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

Delivery Information
- Australian Exclusive
Kavalan Solist Madeira Cask Australian Exclusive Cask Strength Single Malt Taiwanese Whisky (700ml)

TAIWAN
$299. 00
Bottle
$3588.00 Dozen

ABV: 57.8%

Two more cask strength / single cask Kavalans have been exclusively dedicated to Australia. This is the slightly more unusual of the pair, having been matured in an x-Madeira cask - the fortified wine made on the famous Portuguese island. Kavalan’s tropical new-make harmonises well with the rich fruit notes from the wine cask, delivering soft cinnamon spice and cherry character. 57.8% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered. 211 bottles are on offer.

Delivery Information
- 94
- Australian Exclusive
- ABV may vary
- Batch may vary
Kavalan Solist Ex-Bourbon Australian Exclusive Cask Strength Single Malt Taiwanese Whisky (700ml)

TAIWAN
$220. 00
Bottle
$2640.00 Dozen

ABV: 57.1%

Previous batch tasted: Two new Solist bottlings earmarked for Australia have arrived. Normally sherry wins out, but this time its companion is a worthy match. Bourbonesque on the nose, boasting classic American oak aromas of peach, dried mango, Bounty bar, vanilla and fresh sawn oak, this is a typically intense Kavalan, the malt infused with sweet spice and chilli dark chocolate, rebounding with decadent oak-derived flavours of desiccated coconut and vanilla. Wisps of peppermint add rye-like freshness. [54.8% Alc./Vol. batch tasted] Non chill filtered. Very limited stocks.

Delivery Information
- 91
Kavalan Triple Sherry Cask Matured Single Malt Taiwanese Whisky (700ml)

TAIWAN
$169. 99
Bottle
$2039.88 Dozen

ABV: 40%

Kavalan have launched a new expression matured in three different Sherry casks, namely oloroso, Pedro Ximénez (PX) and Moscatel casks.
Senior Blender, Zerose Yang adds, “Its main character, the dried fruits of the oloroso cask, are embellished with the sweetness of PX and Moscatel casks... The resulting liquid offers notes of cinnamon, candied smoked plum, and citrus, layered with a nose of berry, tropical fruits, and longan, alongside a dash of honey, chocolate, and toffee on the palate."
For those who are used to the distillery's extravagant cask strength expressions, this takes a step back. The nose presents an attractive array of dried fruits and plummy malt, mingling with sweet spices. It's an accessible, middle weight style, with a convincing sherry lick and an appropriate dash of spice. You can't really fault the balance, but in the context of what this distillery is best known for, it's Kavalan light. 40% Alc./Vol.

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Kavalan Artist Series: Paul Chiang Cask Strength Single Malt Taiwanese Whisky (4 x 1000ml)

TAIWAN
$4299. 00
Bottle
$51588.00 Dozen

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

Kavalan are celebrating their 15th year of operations with the release of the “Kavalan Artists Series” in collaboration with artist Paul Chiang. Featuring four cask strength whiskies, with each bottle and box featuring one of Paul Chiang’s paintings, embodying the elements of Ocean, Sunlight, Air and Mother Earth. More than just a set of whiskies, these are pieces of art in a bottle. Originally, around 200 sets in 700ml format were offerred which quickly sold out (mainly in Taiwan). 4000 one litre bottles have also been released. Of these, 100 sets are allocated for release outside of Taiwan. We have one set only.
The set includes:
1. "OCEAN" – Puncheon. Single Cask Strength 55.6% Alc./vol.
Painting – “Pisilian (Morning Stars over the Coast)”
The indigenous name, Pisilian, refers to a stretch of Taiwan’s eastern coastline, connecting Kavalan’s home in Yilan County with Taitung County where Paul Chiang is based. Kavalan’s story, or dream, starts in the Ocean under a starry sky. From here, moisture rises and eventually condenses above Snow Mountain, creating Kavalan’s legendary water source.
Notes from Kavalan... Colour: Dark crimson waves. Flavour: The delicious aroma of freshly roasted almond biscuits brings out the smoothness of vanilla and sweetness of white peach, with a hint of maple syrup to accentuate the fruity aroma. Palate: Smooth vanilla and sweet toffee, accentuated with hints of nutty notes, give way to a rich burst of white peach and tropical fruit – a multilayered flavor with an ocean of depth and complexity, and a smooth finish.
2. "SUNLIGHT" – French Wine Cask Single Cask Strength ABV 61.8
Painting – “Meditation on Eternity”
The golden Sunlight in this piece represent sparks of hope, lighting the path toward the Kavalan dream. The fiery red denotes both the intensity of purpose and the heat of the sun, the same life-giving warmth that uniquely enhances Kavalan’s ageing.
Notes from Kavalan... Colour: Final rays of an amber sunset. Flavour: The exquisite yet vibrant scent of berries and black currants form the body of this aroma, mixed with sweet peppers, apples, caramel and ripened fruit for a charming composition. Palate: A full-bodied and multilayered tropical fruity flavor marked by rich and distinctive notes of wild berries and dried fruit for the perfect balance. A dash of soft tannins with subtle hints of spiciness deliver a charming and elegant finish.
3. "AIR" – Virgin Oak Single Cask Strength 52.4% Alc./Vol.
Painting – “On Wings of Song”
Named after a Felix Mendelssohn piano piece, Paul Chiang’s circular brushstrokes imagine effervescent air particles and the beating of wings, creating the sensation of air in motion. The Kavalan dream takes flight in Air, and this painting can be seen as an artistic rendition of whisky’s maturation process.
Notes from Kavalan... Colour: Sweet Black Cherries. Flavour: Smoked plum and purple grapes mixed with buttery vanilla and rich beeswax gradually give way to crisp floral notes with charming apricot and peach. Palate: A full-bodied and rich texture, with hints of spicy oak and sweet honey, autumn pear and chestnuts. The mellow aroma of ripened fruit, guava and cinnamon come together to form a delicious and lingering finish.
4. "MOTHER EARTH" – Peated Malt Single Cask Strength 54.8% Alc./Vol.
Painting – “Jinzun / Summer”
The final piece in the set is both homecoming and rebirth. The green, yellow, and blue represent Taiwan’s East Coast’s lushness and the vibrant flavours and scents of Kavalan whisky. This Mother Earth bears the fruits of labour for both Kavalan and Mr Chiang and the seeds for new growth. The Kavalan dream becomes a reality.
Notes from Kavalan... Colour: Plump Golden Rice Ears. Flavour: Rich beeswax, toffee, and coconut aroma complement the unique tropical fruitiness of Kavalan, exuding a deliciously charming and full-bodied sweetness. Palate: A lavish spread of buttered toffee melts away into a peaty aroma with delicious earthy notes. Exquisitely layered and complex, with a balanced texture and remarkable depth of flavor. Lingering notes of red pepper, spice, and the unique aroma of longans create the perfect finish.

Delivery Information
- 85
Kavalan Distillery Select No.2 Single Malt Taiwanese Whisky (700ml)

TAIWAN
$119. 99
Bottle
$1439.88 Dozen

ABV: 40%

The entry level 'Distillery Select' Series sits beneath Kavalan's existing 'Solist' and 'Rare Sherry' whiskies and comes presented in a bottle shape inspired by Taiwan’s architectural pride, Taipei 101 - one of the world’s tallest skyscrapers. Each whisky in the range is created to showcase a different facet of Kavalan’s character. For this second expression, the Master Distiller emphasises floral and herbal notes.
Other reviews... Unusually for Kavalan, they have here made the rare error of selecting casks which tend to cancel each other out rather than ensuring complexity.
85.5 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2021
...an unassuming nose leads to a complex and balanced palate with a sophisticated finish that lasts and lasts.
Gold Medal / 93 points - tastings.com

Delivery Information
- 89
- 92
Kavalan Concertmaster Port Cask Finish Single Malt Taiwanese Whisky (700ml)

TAIWAN
$139. 99
Bottle
$1679.88 Dozen

ABV: 40%

Tasting note: [20ml sample] Deep polished copper colour. Aromatically, a curious mix of roasted nuts, aniseed infused honey, ginger biscuit and a pantry full of sweet spices, in particular, vanilla, clove and cinnamon. Soft entry builds into a beautifully harmonised, light to middle-weight whisky offering delicate mince fruit pie flavours and gentle heat. Subtle vanilla and manuka honey aftertaste...Good wine vs whisky balance. More interesting with every sip. 40% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... the elegant restraint of this whisky should certainly be admired. 92.5 points - Jim Murrays Whisky Bible 2021
...Here Jim Swan has taken the bold step of double maturing an already quick maturing spirit, but it works. Blueberries and rich oak are to the fore, while Kavalan's cherry accents act as the link between spirit and Port. Think rosehips and creme de mures. Thick and liquorous. 90 points - maltadvocate.com (Vol. 19, #4) Reviewed by: Dave Broom

Delivery Information
- 95
- 87
- 95
- Packaging may vary
- Batch may vary
- ABV may vary
Kavalan Solist Port Cask Cask Strength Single Malt Taiwanese Whisky (700ml)

TAIWAN
$250. 00
Bottle
$3000.00 Dozen

ABV: 58.6%

Fully matured in Portuguese Port barriques under a subtropical climate. Expect multiple fruity flavours such as plum, blueberry, blackberry and strawberry to name a few, with chocolate as the background note.
Tasting note: [ 59.4% ABV batch tasted c.2019] Spectacular deep sienna brown colour. A fruit'n'nut choc-fest with some high pitch nougat and vanilla moments. Huge port input with fabulous cask integration and a bittersweet attack that turns to a fortified saturate at the finish. Hints of unripe passion fruit add an extra twist late in the aftertaste. Another very exuberant Kavalan, and style wise, just what you'd expect from this distillery.
Other reviews... Admirably, they go to all the trouble of bottling single casks individually for their Solist range at Kavalan Distillery. This single cask has the most gorgeous, deep ruby color and a very fruity nose: pomegranate, fresh orange, plum, walnut jam, macadamia, and some zestier elements. At full strength, it’s mouth drawing; warm, fruity, with stewed plums, young rhubarb, pepperpots, and fine-quality dark chocolate. A clean finish, with the fruit and wood spices remaining fresh to the end.
87 points- whiskyadvocate.com, reviewed by: Jonny McCormick (Winter 2016)
...Very much a Kavalan house style... 95 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2022
Named for the ancient Yi-Lan county in the northeast, where the venture is located, Kavalan is Taiwan's only distillery at present. Stylistically, Kavalan's whiskies cross a remarkable breadth. Their flavour profiles range from traditional Speyside through to more robust expressions reminiscent of many recent Australian efforts. They have already confounded many critics and a cask strength release breached the mythical 3 digit barrier, rated 100 points by the highly respected ‘Beverage Testing Institute in Chicago. The 2015 World Whisky Award is just one in a steady stream of commendations, proving that nowadays, lengthy maturation is no longer the rule when it comes to great whisky.

Delivery Information
- 93
Kavalan Bourbon Cask Single Malt Taiwanese Whisky (700ml)

TAIWAN
$154. 99
Bottle
$1859.88 Dozen

ABV: 46%

This is the lower ABV version of "Solist", the cask strength ex Bourbon matured whisky produced by Kavalan.

Tasting note: Bright gold. Muted marshmallow and bubblegum in the opening whiffs. Slowly builds with added vanilla and stone fruits continuing through to a initially lean, then well rounded fruity/malty mid palate featuring stewed pear and sweet spices. Lovely vibrancy and balance with firm, drying oak closing and the vanilla / fresh orchard fruitiness lingering. Style wise akin to bottlings of Aberfedly or Glen Grant when the wood selection is at its best. 46% Alc./Vol.

Other reviews... Surprise, surprise. This is like the school's best pitcher, who then steps onto the football team and throws for a game-winning touchdown. This is a whole new side to Kavalan. Remember Faith No More doing “Easy”? Having out-sherried and out-bourboned us with kickass rock-n-roll whisky, Kavalan goes for gentle and croony, with vanilla and honey. The coup de grace? Apple pie and cream morph into licorice and menthol. Exquisite.
93 points - whiskyadvocate.com (Summer 2013) Reviewed by: Dominic Roskrow

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Kirin Fuji Single Blended Japanese Whisky (700ml)

JAPAN
$139. 99
Bottle
$1679.88 Dozen

ABV: 43%

This typically elegant Japanese blend includes whiskies up to 16 years of age with a portion double distilled in traditional pot stills. Awarded 'Best Japanese Blended' at the World Whiskies Awards 2024, Fuji Gotemba's Master Whisky Maker, Jota Tanaka sums it up as "Delicate, but with lots of layers of flavours, all in harmony." Exclusively matured in American oak and bottled at 43% Alc./Vol., Tanaka recommends pairing it with fresh sashimi or fish carpaccio with roasted root vegetables like potato and radish.

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Kirin Fuji Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)

JAPAN
$179. 99
Bottle
$2159.88 Dozen

ABV: 46%

The Kirin Whisky brand belongs to the Kirin Group, better known for their world famous beers. Produced at the massive Fuji Gotemba plant at the foot of Mount Fuji, the distillery's location maintains a climate similar to Scotland with an average temperature of just thirteen degrees celsius. In recent years, their output has garnered some serious accolades including Japanese Whisky of the Year, World's Best Grain Whisky and numerous Gold Medals. As it celebrates its 50th anniversary, Fuji Gotemba is finally expanding into export markets and launching new products. For this release, they've employed ex-Bourbon, French oak red wine barriques and beer casks, blending single malts up to sixteen years of age. The combination adds Jota Tanaka's signature stamp of layered complexity. With over 30 years of experience in both the US and Japan, he's only the second Master Blender in the distillery's history and succinctly describes this release as "Delicate, but with lots of layers of flavours. All in harmony." Expect notes of oatmeal biscuits, fresh peach and white table grapes with a splash of wildflower honey to finish in a classically elegant Japanese profile. 46% Alc./Vol.
Gold Medal at the International Spirits Challenge 2023.

Delivery Information
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- 88
Kirin Fuji Single Grain Japanese Whisky (700ml)

JAPAN
$169. 99
Bottle
$2039.88 Dozen

ABV: 46%

"Fuji proves once again that Japan knows its way not just around distilling but also blending. Exceptional stuff." - drinkhacker.com
While most other Japanese distilleries have followed the methods of Scotland, Mt. Fuji Distillery is influenced by major whisk(e)y producers all around the world, which explains this tri-part blend distilled using three different methods, each giving their own unique flavour profile. Although the exact mash-bill isn't stated, the backbone of the spirit is reported to be a 'Canadian style' grain, made with a batch distillation in something similar to a kettle still. That's supported by a Bourbon-style distillate using a doubler, and a third Scotch-style light grain put through a continuous multi-column still. The triptych of profiles comes through in the flavours. Fuji smells a little more malt-like than typical single grain with creamy soda and vanilla enhanced by delicate fruity notes like stewed pears and caramelised apples. It's also fuller, richer and with more texture than you'd anticipate. There are the expected lashings of vanilla wafer, however they hover over a backdrop of poached orchard fruits and warming wood spices, followed by more creamy soda, hints of dried banana and a lovely flourish of American oak giving a Bourbonesque or light rye character to the finish. This release was initially for bars only, but from early 2021 it became available to regular tipplers in Japan and then abroad. A good thing. It's a single grain with terrific mouthfeel, and one that deserves a wide audience. 46% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.
Other reviews... The elegant nose on this blend of grain whiskies produced by Mount Fuji Distillery has aromas of ground hazelnut, black tea, chestnut flour, mild baking spices, ripe orchard fruits, citrus zest, and elderflower. The palate is packed with orchard fruit, orange, pepper, and chicory, with bitter bark, pepper, and wood spices showing more grain whisky character, and ends with nutty notes and a short finish of cinnamon and oak. 88 points - whiskyadvocate.com
...So many grain whiskeys have a tired quality of doughy breakfast cereal that dominates the palate, but Fuji feels incredibly lively and focused on its apple and pear elements, notes of brown sugar and butterscotch — touched lightly with florals — dominating completely. Much more overtly enjoyable than your typical grain whiskey bottling — even most very well-aged ones — Fuji proves once again that Japan knows its way not just around distilling but also blending. Exceptional stuff. - drinkhacker.com
Notes from the producers... NOSE Aromas of poached pear, rustic fruit tart, Cognac and marron glacé. PALATE Seamless mouthfeel with multi layered flavours of poached pear, orange marmalade, raspberry jam, baking spices, and bitter chocolate. FINISH Mellow with gentle sweetness and pleasant spiciness, smooth with medium length finish and a hint of exotic incense.

Delivery Information
- Not gift boxed
Kumano Mizunara Finish Blended Malt Japanese Whisky (500ml)

Wakayama, JAPAN
$99. 99
Bottle
$1199.88 Dozen

ABV: 43%

A blend of malts created from two components - Japanese whiskies matured in French oak casks and Scottish whiskies drawn from ex-Bourbon barrels. The two were married and finished in Mizunara casks, the indigenous oak of Japan.
Notes from the producers... Nose: coconut macaron, mango, chamomile, white sandalwood, cantaloupe. Palate: chestnut, salted plum, apricot, ginger, kumquat. Finish: white pepper, vanilla pod, subtle hinoki (Japanese cypress). 43% Alc./Vol.

Delivery Information
- 91
- 89
Launceston Distillery Bourbon Cask Matured Single Malt Australian Whisky (500ml) - 46%

Tasmania, AUSTRALIA
$149. 99
Bottle
$1799.88 Dozen

ABV: 46%

Drawing from twelve small American oak casks, this Bourbon influenced expression is a light to medium-bodied and engaging whisky that speaks of careful cask management and selection. The biscuity malt has achieved a nice balance with the sweet oak notes and a faintly fruity edge comes through suggesting stewed pears and banana bread. It's not complex, but it's pure, already well integrated and full of a character reminiscent of Speysiders twice its age, drawing comparisons with the likes of Cardhu or Royal Brackla. Supervised by distiller, Chris Condon, from grain to bottle everything happens under the roof of Hangar 17, neighbouring Launceston Airport. Batch H17-14 tasted. Non chill filtered. 46% Alc./Vol.
Other reviews... Well, if you are looking for something tasty, malty and a little bit different, here's your chap. 89 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2022
Notes from the producers... Colour Rich dark gold. Nose: Bright fragrant aromas with hints of vanilla, honey and pears. Taste: A soft mouthfeel with subtle sweet bourbon notes, vanilla, honey and green fruit. : Finish A pleasant, smooth and lingering finish. 46% Alc./Vol.

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Michel Couvreur Fleeting R Single Malt French Whisky (500ml)

Burgundy, FRANCE
$220. 00
Bottle
$2640.00 Dozen

ABV: 49%

There’s been a single cask version or two of Fleeting, but this one is a combination of maturing whisky in two casks types. You'll need a magnifying glass at hand to read the front label, which tells us the liquids spent five years in Oloroso sherry barrels, then six years in old barrels that held fortified Pinot Noir with an outturn of 1800 bottles. Couvreur is known for pulling some stunners out of wine casks, and the very dark purple ruby colour of this bottling anticipates something special. Likely to be a bit porty though not quite as sweet as you might expect. 49% Alc./Vol.

Delivery Information
- 88
Michel Couvreur Cap a Pie Blended French Whisky (700ml)

Burgundy, FRANCE
$154. 99
Bottle
$1859.88 Dozen

ABV: 45%

Launched in 2018, this is a first edition for 2018 with a decent proportion of malt whiskies mixed with the grain, as well as some sherry input. Brilliant gold. Pure, fresh and grainy opening sniffs. 2-3 minutes aeration drops the intensity, hinting at straw bail, sponge cake, sweet tea biscuits, a touch of barley sugar and developing orchard fruitiness. Medium dry, this feels more grain-led than malt-heavy with moderate spice and understated dried apple / pear notes. The finish is crisp and minerally, with a mild flare of warming spirit. 45% Alc./Vol.

Delivery Information
- 88
Michel Couvreur Intravagan'za Cask Strength Malt Whisky (700ml)

Burgundy, FRANCE
$169. 99
Bottle
$2039.88 Dozen

ABV: 50%

Tasting note: Matured for 3 years in Moscatel and Oloroso casks. The pale gold amber colour has some small particles floating in it. Opening sniffs are mildly prickly, waxy and furniture polish-like. Second phase releases vanilla wafer, caramel and sweet cereal notes in a bouquet that's akin to youthful grain spirit with an Irish softness. The palate follows suit with a straightforward vanilla, caramel burst. Youthful spiciness. The finish is a little hollow and detracts from the overall balance. 50% Alc./Vol.
Burgundy is a place full of personalities at the high end of the passion scale, especially when it comes to food and drink - perhaps none more so than a Belgian who began maturing Scotch Whisky in the heart of the famous wine region. The fellow in question is Michel Couvreur. He had already established a business in the early 1950s in Scotland selling Burgundy wines when in 1978, French friends suggested that he add a top quality Scotch to his portfolio. So began Couvreur’s interest in whisky from which he developed his ultra-traditionalist perspective on oak. He maintains (more radically than others in the industry) that 90% of a whisky’s quality comes from the cask, and only 10% comes from the distillation process. In the 1970s, American bourbon casks gradually replaced port and sherry casks for the maturation of Scotch, a great tragedy, according to Couvreur, as it changed the essence of a product that had European barrels at its core. In something of a personal crusade, Couvreur settled in Bouze-les-Beaune (close to the Burgundian town of Beaune, France), where he opened a customs bonded cellar and began selecting his own Spanish sherry casks (Pedro Ximenez and Palomino). Some readers will be aware, since the 1970's, sherry ceased to be shipped to UK in wood. Whisky producers have now to go and select their casks at sherry bodegas, paying a premium on top of transport costs. It's partly for this reason that Couvreur's cellar is located in Burgundy, half-way between Scotland and Andalusia, with straight motorways from Jerez de la Frontera to Beaune. Courveur's "Scotch" starts out in Scotland as bulk a.k.a.“clearach” (a high proof distillate) which is transferred to his humid cellars to be aged in small sherry casks that have been impregnated with 25 years aging via traditional soleras. Although Couvreur passed away in 2013, his son-in-law Cyril Deschamps and his Cellar Master Jean-Arnaud Frantzen, with the invaluable help of Michel’s devoted wife Marthe and his daughter Alexandra, continue to follow to the letter the original philosophy of the house. Constantly on the search for novel casks (they’ve recently started working with Jura Vin Jaune), total production is about 50,000 bottles annually. All required dilutions are accomplished with bottled water from Scotland and every bottle is hand-corked, hand-waxed and hand-labelled. These artisan whiskies are invariably interesting, sometimes quirky and occasionally magical.

Delivery Information
- 91
Michel Couvreur Candid Malt Whisky (700ml)

Burgundy, FRANCE
$240. 00
Bottle
$2880.00 Dozen

ABV: 49%

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

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

Burgundy, FRANCE
$119. 99
Bottle
$1439.88 Dozen

ABV: 44%

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

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

Burgundy, FRANCE
$189. 99
Bottle
$2279.88 Dozen

ABV: 43%

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

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

Burgundy, FRANCE
$450. 00
Bottle
$5400.00 Dozen

ABV: 45%

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

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- 89
Nikka Days Blended Japanese Whisky (700ml)

JAPAN
$77. 99
Bottle
$935.88 Dozen

ABV: 40%

Other reviews... Unquestionably the softest, least aggressive whisky I have tasted for the 2020 Whisky Bible. 89 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2020
...Nikka Days is probably the newest product to join the Nikka stable - only released in mid-2020, it joins other blended whisky expressions from Nikka such as the Nikka Tailored, Super Nikka, Nikka From The Barrel, and many more. As the name suggests, this was designed for easy daily drinking and is a Bourbon cask aged blend of malt and grain whiskies from across the Nikka spectrum and likely from the Ben Nevis Scotch distillery as well (making it not purely a Japanese whisky). It comes in a really pretty bottled with a yellow theme that is a really nice pop on an otherwise traditionally more muted whisky shelf. This was as expected very approachable, easy to drink, but with a nice added hit of citrusy flavours and smoked cream which amounts to a decent complexity. For an entry level whisky, the aroma and finish was particularly standout and definitely made me feel that this punched above its weight. If you’re going to buy something entry level, I genuinely think this should be your pick. It’s not over-oaked, it’s not thin to a sin, no off notes or sharpness, nor is it actually bad in any way - for the most part it’s quite the delight. Don’t count this one out. Solid pick, cute bottle, nice whisky. - 88bamboo.co

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Nikka Black Rich Blend Blended Japanese Whisky (700ml)

JAPAN
$99. 99
Bottle
$1199.88 Dozen

ABV: 40%

With dwindling stocks leading to a shortage of age-statements, Nikka has offered a number of lower tier expressions filling out their portfolio with younger-leaning releases such as this one. The blend is made from Miyagikyo and Yoichi malts balanced by the lightness of Coffey grain whisky. Some components are matured in ex-sherry casks for added richness - hence the label title. 40% Alc./Vol.

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Nikka Black Clear Blended Japanese Whisky (700ml)

JAPAN
$64. 99
Bottle
$779.88 Dozen

ABV: 37%

Part of Nikka’s Black range, this blend is one of the most popular daily drinkers in Japan. Combining whiskies from the Yoichi and Miyagikyo distilleries makes for a light expression suitable for highballs or drinking neat. 37% Alc./Vol.

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