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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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    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.

    Amrut Raj Igala Sherry Finish Single Malt Indian Whisky (700ml)
    Bangalore, INDIA
    $79. 99
    Bottle
    $959.88 Dozen
    ABV: 40%

    Apart from a change to the colour of the label, the liquid inside is a slight departure from the Raj Igala we've previously offered. The importers explain, "We felt that early samples of this value whisky would benefit from an increased sweetness to suit our target audience. So Amrut consigned our first shipment to finish in Oloroso casks (unknown duration) before bottling". All labels had already been printed before this was done, so the words 'Oloroso finished' unfortunately do not appear on the label. 40% Alc./vol.

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    Amrut Greedy Angels Chairman's Reserve 2019 Release 10 Year Old Single Malt Indian Whisky (700ml)
    Bangalore, INDIA
    $1299. 00
    Bottle
    $15588.00 Dozen
    ABV: 55%

    The 2019 release of Greedy Angels was matured in oak for a decade before bottling at a generous 55% ABV. Named after 'the angel's share', in reference to the whisky that evaporates during time in barrel, the liquid comes presented in an elegant decanter, complete with glass stopper. Numbers are down on some previous editions with just 900 on offer for 2019.

    Other reviews... An intense and enthralling whisky on the nose, with honey, brown sugar, and caramel, then molasses, cooked fruit, vanilla, shredded orange peel, chocolate, and baking spices, yet it still retains a barley freshness. This elegantly carries its potent ABV with aplomb, producing a palate of baked orange, dried pineapple, malt, milk chocolate, and a cascade of spice, sugar, caramelized fruits, and toasted oak. Simply incredible. (900 bottles, 300 for U.S.) Collectible. 95 points - whiskyadvocate.com

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    • Hot Item
    2015 Amrut Single Cask #3897 Australian Exclusive Ex-Oloroso Sherry Butt 7 Year Old Single Malt Indian Whisky (700ml)
    Bangalore, INDIA
    $199. 00
    Bottle
    $2388.00 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.

     

    Amrut Triparva Single Malt Indian Whisky (700ml)
    Bangalore, INDIA
    $199. 00
    Bottle
    $2388.00 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

    Amrut Single Malts of India Kurinji Single Malt Indian Whisky (700ml)
    INDIA
    $160. 00
    Bottle
    $1920.00 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
    $150. 00
    Bottle
    $1800.00 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

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    Amrut Peated Indian Single Malt Whisky (700ml)
    Bangalore, INDIA
    $110. 00
    Bottle
    $1320.00 Dozen
    ABV: 46%

    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 it’s 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.

    Other Reviews...
    ...absolutely everything you could ask for a peated malt at this strength. The length and complexity are matched only by a train journey through this astonishing country.
    94 Points - Jim Murray Whisky Bible 2015

     

    Amrut Indian Single Malt Whisky (700ml)
    Bangalore, INDIA
    $94. 99
    Bottle
    $1139.88 Dozen
    ABV: 46%

    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?)

    This introductory expression is comprised of whisky matured in ex-sherry (10%) and ex-bourbon barrels (90%).  

    Other reviews... [Batch 41 Apr 12]  
    Just another Amrut bottling. Just another reminder of how whisky should be. - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2015

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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
    $170. 00
    Bottle
    $2040.00 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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    Amrut Cask Strength Single Malt Indian Whisky (700ml)
    Bangalore, INDIA
    $140. 00
    Bottle
    $1680.00 Dozen
    ABV: 61.8%

    Other reviews... Similar to the standard Amrut, except that it's drier and spicier, with suggestions of bourbon. Not as creamy as the standard expression, but a bit more sophisticated. 82 points - John Hansell, www.whiskyadvocate.com

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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

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    Bimber Ex-Bourbon Oak Casks Single Malt English Whisky (700ml) - Batch 4
    UNITED KINGDOM
    $180. 00
    Bottle
    $2160.00 Dozen
    ABV: 51.2%

    Bimber's previous Ex-Bourbon bottlings set a high standard, impressing more than a few malt enthusiasts including strong reviews from whiskyfun and whiskyadvocate.com. The formula is simple: Create an unpretentious, delicious whisky from carefully selected casks to showcase the quality of the distillate. The fourth edition has arrived and once again confirms American oak's affinity with Bimber's sultry, fruit-forward character. Think semi-ripe bananas and pears, caramelized apples and dried coconut wrapped up in a high-strength delivery. 7000 bottles are on offer globally. 51.2% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered. Tasted from a 20ml sample.

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    Bimber Apogee XII 12 Year Old Pure Malt English Whisky (700ml)
    UNITED KINGDOM
    $130. 00
    Bottle
    $1560.00 Dozen
    ABV: 46.3%

    Bimber's foray into sourced whiskies sees twelve year old Highland and Speyside malts matured and blended in spice-forward Bimber x-Bourbon casks. Tasted from a 15ml sample, as you'd find in many a Speysider, the opening sniffs include fresh cut oak, before moving into malty gear with gorgeous, ripe aromas of poached pears, apple tart, tea biscuits and vanilla wafer. It sounds a bit pedestrian in terms of flavour descriptors, but compensates in a superbly textural delivery with an almost fresh orchard fruit crunch and crispness, backed up by sweet wood notes and furry tannins. The fruit / malt / spice interplay is skilfully harmonised, but it's that special something to the mouthfeel that makes this more than an everyday drinker and more of a quiet treasure. Bottled without chill-filtration in a striking, custom bottle which features a tactile glass fashioned to imitate the surfaces of Bimber’s small copper pot stills. 46.3% Alc./Vol.

    Notes from the bottlers... Nose: Spiced pears and oven-baked apricot flans are sweetened by candy necklaces and scented with rosewater, nutmeg and powdered ginger. Palate: Syrupy orchard and stone fruits provide a bright and fresh mouthfeel supported by lightly charred oak, gentle white pepper and cooling mint. Finish: Lingering ripe and sweet fruits alongside sympathetic, aromatic oak.

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    Bimber Ex-Bourbon Oak Casks Batch 3 Cask Strength Single Malt English Whisky (700ml)
    UNITED KINGDOM
    $150. 00
    Bottle
    $1800.00 Dozen
    ABV: 51.6%

    The English Whisky front continues to expand with London-based Bimber. Their first casks were laid down in 2016 and an inaugural single malt followed three years later in September of 2019. This project definitely fulfills the category of a 'craft' operation with 100% of the barley sourced from a single farm, traditionally floor malted, hand-mashed and slow-fermented for seven days in wooden washbacks. Direct fire copper stills and an in-house cooperage complete the picture. Distiller, Dariusz Plazewski’s policy of small-batch and single-cask releases has quickly built a loyal following. Bourbon barrels are felt to best complement Bimber's accessible fruit-forward spirit. This small batch release is a limited run of 5000 bottles (almost double last year's outturn). Powerful yet balanced, it's a dryish malt; Although the length is only moderate, the definition and concentration is impressive; Flavours of cream sponge cake are followed by rich barley and a balancing herbal note adding peppermint-like freshness, leaning towards young rye at the finish. Tasted from a 15ml sample. Bottled in June 2021. 51.6% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

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    • 95
    Cardrona Distillery Growing Wings Solera Cask Strength Single Malt New Zealand Whisky (375ml)
    NEW ZEALAND
    $135. 00
    Bottle
    $1620.00 Dozen
    ABV: 64.9%

    A follow up to the 2019 Just Hatched inaugural release, Growing Wings spent five years, one day in ex-Oloroso Sherry butts and ex-bourbon barrels, marking the five-year anniversary of the first spirit laid down at Cardrona. It's very good whisky on its way to becoming great whisky, defined by a creamy nose feel that includes dried fruits and sweet roasted nuts, countered by hints of white pepper and lemon zest. The palate resonates in similar fashion; nicely weighted with vanilla, honey and cream sponge cake on entry followed by a thrust of spice and delicate astringency, the sugars rebounding late. Adding water accents a balsa wood and spice character, but it isn't necessary - this is approachable uncut and rounds out further after air contact. Founded by former farmer, Desiree Reid following two years of research and tutelage from the likes of influential US Master Distiller, Dave Pickerell, Cardrona continue to produce just a barrel a day. Dunedin born and bred Sarah Elsom has now taken on the role of Master Distiller. 64.9% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

    Other reviews... This is a quite extraordinary whisky for a distillery so new...whichever part of the world you may find it. 95.5 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2024

    • Nick's Import
    • Reduced
    Fuyu Mizunara Finish Blended Japanese Whisky (700ml)
    JAPAN
    Reduced from $150.00
    $120. 00
    Bottle
    $1440.00 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.

    • 92
    Hellyers Road Distillery The Journeyman Single Malt Australian Whisky (700ml)
    Tasmania, AUSTRALIA
    $169. 99
    Bottle
    $2039.88 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.

    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.

    • Reduced
    Ichiros Malt & Grain World Blended Japanese Whisky (700ml)
    JAPAN
    Reduced from $180.00
    $165. 00
    Bottle
    $1980.00 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.

    Karuizawa 1999-2000 Vintages The Masterpieces in Eight Colours 2nd Batch Cask Strength Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)
    JAPAN
    $9999. 00
    Bottle
    $119988.00 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.

    Karuizawa 1999-2000 Vintages The Masterpieces in Eight Colours 4th Batch Cask Strength Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)
    JAPAN
    $9999. 00
    Bottle
    $119988.00 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.

    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.

    • 91
    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.

    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.  


    • 94
    Kavalan Solist Oloroso Sherry Australian Exclusive Cask Strength Single Malt Taiwanese Whisky (700ml)
    TAIWAN
    $280. 00
    Bottle
    $3360.00 Dozen
    ABV: 54.8%

    Always interesting to compare Solist sherry releases. This takes a drier, nuttier trajectory with a fresh peel lift to the nose and a bittersweet arrival that fans out in typical Kavalan fashion: Dates, roasted nuts, rancio and dried coconut are countered by bittersweet dark chocolate, citrus peel and spicy astringency. Not quite as exuberant as some previous picks, the style here is akin to a well-aged Armagnac that unfolds with extended time in the glass. 239 bottles are on offer for Australian fans. 54.8% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered. Very limited stocks.

    • Batch may vary
    • Limit Three per customer
    • Nick's Import
    • ABV may vary
    Kavalan Solist Vinho Barrique Cask Strength Single Malt Taiwanese Whisky (1000ml)
    TAIWAN
    $299. 00
    Bottle
    $3588.00 Dozen
    ABV: 59.4%

    Cask strength one litre format at the same price as the standard issue 700ml import.

    Kavalan continue to confound critics and purists, proving that lengthy maturation is no longer the rule when it comes to great whisky. Master Blender, Ian Chang concedes that he will almost certainly never release anything older than ten years. If he waited that long, most of the liquid would have evaporated anyway, making it both physically and financially unviable. So long as Kavalan remain obsessive about quality wood - which they do - age doesn't seem to matter.

    Jim Murray rightly observes, "Kavalan has that very rare talent for brilliance without apparent effort". Perhaps no other whisky in their portfolio more routinely exemplifies this than the Vinho Barrique. While there are many distilleries that turn out gargantuan malts, there are few on the planet offering young casks that combine raw power with so much complexity and nuance. Right now you can get it in a one litre format at the same price as the standard issue 700ml import. It's a 'no-brainer' buying opportunity promising a massive bang for your buck in every sense. Please note: ABV may vary slightly from the product pictured.

    • 91
    Kavalan Triple Sherry Cask Matured Single Malt Taiwanese Whisky (700ml)
    TAIWAN
    $150. 00
    Bottle
    $1800.00 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.

    Kavalan Native Species 'Mikado Pheasant' Classic Single Malt Taiwanese Whisky Gift Set (1 x 700ml & 2 x 50ml)
    TAIWAN
    $160. 00
    Bottle
    $1920.00 Dozen
    ABV: 40%

    This limited release gift set includes one 700ml bottle of Kavalan's 'Classic' single malt, plus a 50ml sampler of the same, and a 50ml sample of Kavalan's 'Distillery Select No.1' single malt, all bottled at 40%.

    One in a series celebrating the native species of Taiwan, the packaging and bottle label are graced with The Mikado Pheasant, aka the “Emperor’s Pheasant'. The bird boasts a splendid, royal blue plumage and is considered a national symbol. It is accompanied by the Taiwan Barbet and the Tree Peony, symbolising wealth.

    • 85
    Kavalan Distillery Select No.2 Single Malt Taiwanese Whisky (700ml)
    TAIWAN
    $99. 99
    Bottle
    $1199.88 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
    • 92
    • 81
    Kavalan Concertmaster Sherry Cask Finish Single Malt Whisky (700ml)
    TAIWAN
    $120. 00
    Bottle
    $1440.00 Dozen
    ABV: 40%
    Tasting note: [15ml sample] The second whisky in the Concertmaster series is aged in the distillery’s own special reserve of refill casks, then finished in the Spanish ex Sherry casks. Moderate aromas of dried fruits, in particular, dried mango followed by a touch of banana. Medium-dry rather than sweet, accessible, well rounded and with solid depth at this ABV, instead of traditional sherried notes, blueberries come to mind, especially at the finish where the impression is enhanced by fresh acidity. 40% Alc./Vol.

    Other reviews... The driest sherry of any Kavalan I have yet encountered... It could have done without that sherry finish. 81 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2021
    • 90
    • ABV may vary
    Kavalan Solist Manzanilla Sherry Cask Strength Single Malt Taiwanese Whisky (750ml)
    TAIWAN
    $550. 00
    Bottle
    $6600.00 Dozen
    ABV: 58.6%

    NB: Alc./Vol. may vary from batch to batch.

    Other reviews... Clove-spiked orange, melon, pomegranate, cherry lozenge, and aniseed. Cherry, Strawberry Laces, growing spiciness, ginger, pepper, almost effervescent fruit jamminess. Later, citrus peel, vanilla. Finish has vanilla bitterness and fresh green herbal tones. Water keeps the fruit but boosts those spices on the finish. 90 points - whiskyadvocate.com, reviewed by: Jonny McCormick (Spring 2017)

    • 94
    • Nick's Import
    • ABV may vary
    • Batch may vary
    Kavalan Solist Vinho Barrique Cask Strength Single Malt Taiwanese Whisky (700ml)
    TAIWAN
    $299. 00
    Bottle
    $3588.00 Dozen
    ABV: 55.6%

    NB: Alc./Vol. may vary from batch to batch.

    The single malt that made Kavalan famous. Voted world's Best Whisky in 2015.

    In 2014 it was Australia, when Sullivan’s Cove French Oak took the prize. 
    In 2015 it's the Kavalan Distillery. It's official. Taiwan now offers one of the World's Best Whiskies.

    We were fortunate enough to have Kavalan's Master Blender; Ian Chang visit us at the store in May, 2015.  Tasting the range with Chang revealed a collection of young, precocious malts that demonstrate age isn't everything. Taiwan's tropical climate pushes maturity at a phenomenal rate, but the overall quality has continued to defy the skeptics.

    Named for the ancient Yi-Lan county in the northeast , where the venture is located, Kavalan is Taiwan's only distillery at present, but that may soon change.
    In a market previously dominated by Cognac, Taiwan is now one of the world's biggest consumers of whisky. Scotch has become an aspirational status symbol and marketers have responded with numerous brands offering special releases exclusively for Taiwan. It’s one explanation behind the country’s changing drinking habits. There are others. Jens Kastner, writing in the Asia Times, notes that, according to industry sources “From the late 1990s on whisky gradually took over, after Scottish whisky makers, among those most prominently The Macallan, started sophisticated promotion campaigns. Face-to-face, small-group brand-training engagement activities were conducted all over the island.”

    Chang believes there’s also a more mundane factor at play. ”Unlike Cognac, Scotch doesn't taste sweet. So Taiwanese don't think it makes you fat.”

    Putting it all together paints an attractive argument for a local industry, especially given Taiwan's proximity to the lucrative Chinese market.
    Kavalan is owned by the King Car group, a family company with business in several fields including beverages, food, biotechnology and aquaculture. The brainchild of King Car's chairman, Mr. TT Lee, who always wanted his own high-quality whisky distillery, it was only conceivable after Taiwan joined the WTO in 2002, ending the country's alcohol monopoly system. Mr. Lee is a man who likes to control his own destiny and insists the company will never be floated.

    The distillery which was completed in 2005 is one hour train ride from Taipei and a 10-15 minute ride out of Yilan proper. It’s an expansive, highly automated barn-like complex with a conference and visitor centre, situated beside the ‘Snowy Mountain’ (which, incidentally has no snow, but there’s an abundant supply of pure spring water here).

    The first bottle of Kavalan was released in 2008. Chang who spent two years studying whisky production in Scotland, takes his lead from Dr. Jim Swan, the world's foremost independent consultant on whisky production and maturation.
    Like Glenmorangie and other industry benchmarks, his wood policy is obsessive - all the more critical in these climes. The maturation process is 'forced' due to the higher than average tempratures. Everything is accelerated. As whisky writer, Charles MacLean, adds, "You've gotta have the right casks to do the job in such a short time. The expressions I have tasted have clearly demonstrated good wood." 
    Chang concedes that Kavalan will almost certainly never release anything older than 10 years. If they waited that long, most of the whisky would have evaporated anyway, making it both physically and financially unviable.  The quick maturation cycles have spurred a recent counter-campaign from at least one Scotch Whisky producer - namely, Chivas's "Age Matters" campaign. However, Maclean, a long time Scotch whisky evangelist admits, "it doesn't when you have the right spirit in the right casks for the right length of time! Go figure!"

    The casks, including ex-bourbon refill barrels, fresh sherry butts, and x Port casks as well as Kavalan's own dechar/rechar casks designed to a special recipe to complement the spirit's flavour, are stored in an unconventional five-story maturation warehouse.

    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.

     Winner of 'World's Best Single Malt Whisky' (58.6% ABV) -
    World Whiskies Awards (WWA) 2015

    This instalment from the already famous Taiwanese upstart has been fully matured in open air seasoned American oak barrels that, after holding either red or white wine, have been toasted and recharred.

    Other reviews... Kavalan has that very rare talent for brilliance without apparent effort. 94.5 points-Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2020

    [55.3% ABV batch tasted] Deep amber color. Aromas of butter pecan gelato, chocolate raisin, vanilla yogurt, and pound cake with a supple fruity-yet-dry full body and a mango chutney on raisin toast and peppery spices finish. With water, chocolate coconut macaroon and roasted nut notes emerge. A delicious and satisfying sipper.
    International Review of Spirits Award: Gold Medal
    95 points (Exceptional)
    - tastings.com

    ...This has a seductive nose of mango, kiwi, dried tropical fruits, rich oak, silky caramels, and milk chocolate-covered cranberries. The dynamics of this cask-strength whisky play out handsomely, with an opening gambit of warm berry fruits, peaking with emphatic spices, and ending with a reflective phase of butter toffee, mocha, and Ovaltine. A dash of water encourages clove-studded orange flavors and preserves the long spicy finish. 92 points- whiskyadvocate.com, reviewed by: Jonny McCormick (Summer 2018)

    Previous batch tasted: [56.9% ABV tasted Sept 2015] Deep gold ochre / polished copper colour. Volatile and spiritous opening sniffs / mildly balsamic-like before settling to reveal a medley of dates, dried apricots and brandy cream and trace sulphur. Entry is bittersweet; mid palate is intense, tongue tingling, spicy with the bitterness subsiding to aged brandy-like flavours and Christmas fruit cake. Ends long and rich with vanilla, Christmas cake and dried fruits through the aftertaste. 56.9% Alc./Vol.

    First tasted: [57% batch tasted 5.08.2014] Brilliant deep amber colour. Builds through the initially muted stage revealing suggestions of cereals, cocoa and grape. Further air contact fails to stimulate more aromatic excitement. Contrasts on the palate with a stunning explosion of juicy fruit and sweet malt supported by balanced tannins. Finish is bittersweet; the malty, vanilla aftertaste lingers with late fruitiness. Bipolar whisky let down by the nose - otherwise a stand out. 57% Alc./Vol.
    90 points

    • 93
    Kavalan Bourbon Cask Single Malt Taiwanese Whisky (700ml)
    TAIWAN
    $155. 00
    Bottle
    $1860.00 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

    Kirin Fuji Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)
    JAPAN
    $180. 00
    Bottle
    $2160.00 Dozen
    ABV: 46%

    Fuji Gotemba has won numerous awards including Japanese Whisky of the Year, World's Best Grain Whisky and numerous Gold Medals. As it celebrates its 50th anniversary it's finally expanding into export markets and launching new products. For this release, Fuji have employed ex-Bourbon, French oak red wine barriques and beer casks. The combination adds Master Blender, Jota Tanaka's signature stamp of layered complexity. 46% Alc./Vol.

    Gold Medal at the International Spirits Challenge 2023.

    • 93
    Kirin Fuji Single Grain Japanese Whisky (700ml)
    JAPAN
    $170. 00
    Bottle
    $2040.00 Dozen
    ABV: 46%

    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 malt enhanced by delicate fruity notes like stewed pears and caramelised apples. It's also fuller, richer and with more mouthfeel than you'd anticipate. There are the standard lashings of vanilla wafer but they sit 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 which gives a Bourbonesque or light rye character to the finish. This release was initially for bars only, but from early 2021 it became available for 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.

    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.

    • Reduced
    The Kurayoshi Sherry Cask Pure Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml) - DAMAGED GIFT BOX
    JAPAN
    Reduced from $119.99
    $114. 99
    Bottle
    $1379.88 Dozen
    ABV: 43%

    Produced in runs of around 1500 bottles, this sherry matured Matsui comes with very positive reviews from several quarters.

    Other reviews... a plodding nose, but safe and secure with light grape and toffee on nodding terms; very young barley and toffee hold court until spice and dried plum notes begin to find their home; an unusual finale with an intense dryness at odds with the chest beating muscovado sugars; chewy and sticky, the youthfulness of this vatted malt is overcome by the intensity and richness of the malt and dark sugars. A complex, pleasing experience. 90.5 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2022

    ...Showing a soaring nose of baked cereal grains, warmed yellow plum skin, smoked sea salt, and wet stone. Big cask influence creates flavors of almond skin, toasted marshmallow, hazelnut, and a lingering finish of ripe pear. 93 points - Excellent / Highly Recommended - Ultimate Spirits Challenge 2021

    • 91
    • 89
    Launceston Distillery Bourbon Cask Matured Single Malt Australian Whisky (500ml) - 46%
    Tasmania, AUSTRALIA
    $150. 00
    Bottle
    $1800.00 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.

    • 93
    • 95
    • 87
    Mackmyra Svensk Rok Single Malt Swedish Whisky (500ml)
    Valbo, SWEDEN
    $120. 00
    Bottle
    $1440.00 Dozen
    ABV: 46.1%

    Launched in 2013 and now a regular bottling, this unusual release from the prodigious Swedish distillery is slightly smoky - hence the name "Svensk Rök", meaning "Swedish Smoke". Matured for an undisclosed period in a mix of 30-128 litre casks ranging from American oak, Swedish oak and ex-bourbon saturated with Oloroso, around 70% is peated. One of the tastiest expressions in the Mackmyra line up, Svensk Rok is also one of the best values, boasting melt-in-your-mouth flavours of salted citrus and vanilla along with all the sweet'n'smokey notes you'd expect, but with a twist: Mackmyra employ juniper branches to dry some of the malt, which makes sense, as juniper has been used to season food in Sweden for generations. It comes through at the finish as hints of menthol tobacco, smouldering potpourri and pine. The result is a distinctive local take on Scottish peated styles that really works. 46.1% Alc./Vol.

    Other reviews... At first you might think the smoke is quite full on. But then you realise the company it keeps, it is part of a tapestry; for there are subtly oaky vanillas at play here, as well as diced fresh apple and elegant understated spices.... Fascinating and quite brilliant. Now this is real blending.  95.5 points- Jim Murrays Whisky Bible 2020

    “Toasted hazelnut, runny honey and sweet nougat on the nose. Peat smoke, mossy undergrowth and bright citrus on the palate. Expressive and characterful, with a refreshing wave of salinity on the extremely long finish. Marvellous!”  96 points - IWSC 2022

    ...Meaning Swedish smoke, and they've nailed the juniper smoke perfectly here. Ripening lemons, fresh cream, Turkish delight, pine forests, and barley sugar aromas. Great poise and balance. A light, lacey structure comprising creamy fudge, honey, lemon, oak, and vanilla. It just dances on the tongue. Yet billowing puffs of smoke pulse from the center. Baked lemon peel ushers in a pleasurable rolling, smoky finish. This Röks! - 87 points - whiskyadvocate.com

    • 93
    Mackmyra Moment Virvelvind Single Malt Swedish Whisky (700ml)
    Valbo, SWEDEN
    $260. 00
    Bottle
    $3120.00 Dozen
    ABV: 46.8%

    The final instalment in the Moment series in which special casks get the attention they deserve, 'Moment Virvelvind' takes its inspiration from the first edition, Moment Medvind. Peated and unpeated whiskies were drawn from Bourbon casks, as well as Swedish oak and second-fill Oloroso sherry casks. Softly spoken aromas of ripe orchard fruits, light peat and white pepper are followed by sweet, elegant and seductive smoke-infused flavours suggesting fruity dark chocolate, dried figs, toasted cereals and vanilla. It's deceptively long but all very subtle, and as ever for this distillery, so well integrated it's difficult to distinguish where distinct flavours start and end. If you're not usually partial to peated whiskies, try this. 46.8% Alc./Vol.

    Notes from the producers... Nose: Sweet fruit in the shape of pears and red apples is balanced by distinct citrus, vanilla and muscovado sugar. All surrounded by a veil of smoke. Taste: Soft oak tones, acidic and pomerans. Madagascar vanilla, fudge ripe pear complemented with a light volatile smoke of peat and juniper.  Aftertaste: Long aftertaste with tones of juniper and lime. Aromatic finish with tobacco leaves and oak.

    • 92
    Mackmyra Destination Single Malt Swedish Whisky (700ml)
    Valbo, SWEDEN
    $199. 00
    Bottle
    $2388.00 Dozen
    ABV: 48.7%

    Non-peated with one third aged in casks that previously held port wine, 'Destination' is darker, deeper and richer than Mackmyra's Limousin. The nose indicates some red berry pick-up mingling with Bourbony vanillas, while the fruity port input becomes more salient in the delivery. It's a bigger, bolder Mackmyra expression, finishing in a flurry of spices and dark chocolate before fading with a chewy-nutty-malt character and late hints of dried berries. The wine influence is beautifully harmonised. 48.7% Alc./Vol.
    The exact cask breakdown is as follows:
    33% Ex-Port wine cask, 600 L 
    33% American oak cask, 200 L
    25% Ex-Bourbon cask, 200 L
    9% Oloroso-seasoned American oak, cask, 200 L

    Notes from the bottlers... Pear and raisins in a lovely combination, followed by sweet notes of fudge and almond paste. Taste: Prominent notes of vanilla fudge and almond paste that comes from the American oak casks. Sweet raisins and berry-like nuances of white heart cherry and blackberry. Aftertaste: Sweet berries and hazelnut, finished with lively notes of oak. This label is an invitation to whisky lovers all around the world to come and visit the distillery.

    2022 Mars Tsunuki Aging Single Malt Japanese Whisky (700ml)
    JAPAN
    $275. 00
    Bottle
    $3300.00 Dozen
    ABV: 50%

    Built in 2016, Tsunuki is the second distillery owned and operated by Mars Whisky. Situated in the Kagoshima Prefecture in the south of Japan, its location is also the birthplace of their business, Hombo Shuzo Co. more than 100 years ago.

    The 2022 edition is the fledgling distillery's third ever release, following on from 'The First' and 'Peated'. Majority matured in bourbon barrels, on the nose anticipate a fresh sweetness reminiscent of lemon cake, followed by hints of black tea and a whiff of smoke, while the palate boasts a bitter sweet fruitiness like Orangette and the finish is long and rich, helped by the fact that it's non chill filtered and bottled at a higher than normal ABV of 50%.

    • 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.

    Michel Couvreur Tria Juncta in Uno Blended Malt French Whisky (500ml)
    Burgundy, FRANCE
    $1299. 00
    Bottle
    $15588.00 Dozen
    ABV: 49.92%
    A genuine limited edition of just 400 bottles, with major markets allocated as few as twelve bottles. Australia has even less.

    This is Couvreur's blending masterpiece composed from a very sherried 25 year old and a 29 year old from x Pedro Ximenez casks combined with his famous 16 year old Bere Barley malt whisky (a wild variety grown in Westray, Orkney). Assembled by Michel Couvreur himself, "Tri Juncta in Uno" (latin for “three in one”) marks the culmination of his passion to create an extra-aged whisky of the highest quality. The soul and source of the whiskies are referenced in the presentation - a handcrafted leather box made by “La Malle Bernard” (maker of Morgan cars’ luggage) with a traditional Scottish 'green plaid' lining inside.

    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. 49.92% Alc./Vol.
    • 88
    Michel Couvreur Intravagan'za Cask Strength Malt Whisky (700ml)
    Burgundy, FRANCE
    $155. 00
    Bottle
    $1860.00 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. 

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