6732 products

Whiskies

WINNER: BEST ONLINE WHISKY RETAILER 2018 AND 2019. Australia's second Icons of Whisky Awards were announced in August 2018 at the Whiskies and Spirits Conference held in Adelaide. Nominated and voted for by the industry, for the second year running, Nicks Wine Merchants have been awarded AUSTRALIAN ONLINE RETAILER OF THE YEAR! We're now entered to compete to be named best in the world in 2019 at the World Whisky Awards in London.
    1792 Bottled In Bond Vol.II Single Barrel Bourbon Whiskey (750ml) - Whiskey Hunt Australia Exclusive - Retail Partner Release
    Kentucky, UNITED STATES
    $150. 00
    Bottle
    $1800.00 Dozen
    ABV: 50%

    For this barrel selection, WHA called in some of the most experienced whiskey folks they know - their six retail partners around Australia. Samples were distributed with simple instructions: Give each example a rating along with your tasting notes. WHA tallied up the scores and the result was this 1792 Bottled in Bond Bourbon single barrel pick. American whiskey boffins will already know that in 1897, the Bottled-in-Bond Act revolutionized the quality of American whiskey, requiring that it be a product of the grain of a single season, made by one distiller at a single distillery and aged in a federal government-bonded warehouse. The act came as a response to the widespread adulteration in American whiskey around the late 19th century. It was an attempt by the federal government to act as a guarantor of the spirit's authenticity. Carrying on that tradition, barrel # 8175 was filled on the 10/10/14 and bottled on the 1/6/23 making it eight years and eight months old with a yield of 192 bottles for Australia only. The group tasting notes include aromas and flavours of white chocolate, cherry strudel, light brown sugar, coconut husk, baking spice, banana bread, nutmeg, vanilla, light oak & cherry with a finish of light oak and brown lingering sugars. 50% Alc./Vol.

    • 90
    23rd Street Distillery Hybrid Whisky (700ml)
    Renmark, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $86. 99
    Bottle
    $1043.88 Dozen
    ABV: 42.3%
    An experiment in blending that references a practise common to the Japanese industry. 'Hybrid' is apt: Head distiller, Graham Buller imported prime barrels of Scotch whisky (average 5 years old) and American Bourbon (2 years old) with the intent of creating his perfect whisky. Following a blending period, the final result was finished in x Bourbon barrels.

    Tasting note: Bright gold. Slightly, acidic / alcoholic lift to the opening inhalations. A few minutes softens the aroma introducing vanilla and a fruity edge - baked apple? Wine soaked pears? Mildly oily entry develops with a cream-textured, vanilla, fruity, honied malt profile and excellent palate length. Light grassiness at the finish. Concludes gently woody, peppery, beeswaxy. A confident, clean, lighter bodied whisky that's easy to like. 42.3% Alc./Vol.
    23rd Street Distillery Single Malt Australian Whisky (700ml)
    Renmark, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $115. 00
    Bottle
    $1380.00 Dozen
    ABV: 46%

    There have been several iterations of 23rd Street's single malt, with different labels and ABVs, however this one now looks to be settled as a core range release. The large site housing the 23rd Street Distillery in Renmark was first built in 1914 by Chateau Tanunda, a major brandy producer, but was closed in 2004 until Bickfords Australia along with sister company Vok Beverages invested 6.6 million in the new venture, with help from a government grant. Initially, brandy-focused, vodka and a range of gins are also on offer. Distillate is derived from two pot stills built by Adelaide manufacturers H. Jennings in the 1950s. For the whiskies, x-Bourbon maturations are currently preferred.

    Notes from the producers... Elegant aromas of toffee, lifted fruit and delicate vanillin oak trail into an evocative hint of wine cellar. The palate is full and lightly sweet, with citrus and apricot, bedtime malted milk, and a finish of butterscotch oak and lingering warmth. Produced from Kangaroo Island barley and matured in x-Bourbon casks. 46% Alc./Vol.

    43% batch tasted... Brilliant gold. Rich, rounded aromas include gobstopper, ripe peach and banana over light vanilla and wood spice. Super pure with a deliciously fruity, off-dry delivery hinting at kumquat, pepper, cocoa and pencil shavings with a late rush of fig and banana confectionary before the oak closes in. Fruity and flavoursome. 91 points

    36 Short Single Malt Australian Whisky (500ml) - 40%
    South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $99. 99
    Bottle
    $1199.88 Dozen
    ABV: 40%

    36 Short's latest single malt is created in the same way as their 45% ABV expression, minus the red wine cask finishing: Australian malted barley, water from an aquifer underneath the distillery and maturation in locally sourced, shaved and charred American oak barrels is followed by further resting in x Bourbon barrels to add complexity and fruity notes. The result is a modern yet balanced whisky with a well-rounded, light-weight feel bottled at an accessible 40% Alc./Vol.

    Notes from the producers... Colour: Deep gold autumn barley. Nose: Sweet and fruity on the nose, with tart lime marmalade notes. A faint aroma of fresh cut pine and tropical fruit adds a delicate malt finish. Taste: A warm roundness encompassing the whisky with character of a tangy dried fruit medley. A hint of vanilla bean, taking you on a long, sweet fruity journey. Finish: A beautiful long finish with a taste of dried mixed fruit. Lingering with notes of apricot and peaches with a warming finish. 

    • 88
    36 Short Single Malt Australian Whisky (500ml) - 45%
    South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $134. 99
    Bottle
    $1619.88 Dozen
    ABV: 45%

    Adelaide brothers, Jon and Con Lioulios own and run Thirty Six Short Distillery from Virginia in South Australia, where they recently launched Australia's first Rakia - partly as a tribute to their late Macedonian father, Pando whose dream was to distil traditional Rakia. The venture is actually named after Pando’s suit size, '36 Short'. A 1200 litre copper pot still also bears his name. The brother's first single malt was released in late 2021, cut back with water sourced from an aquifer that runs directly underneath the distillery. The barrels are locally sourced, x-Shiraz, shaven and charred American oak barrels. This initial maturation is followed by further resting in x Bourbon barrels to add fruity notes, before the liquid is finally returned to the Shiraz casks for a finishing. Advanced in colour, it feels more like a sherry matured Scottish malt than a warm climate Australian whisky. Aromas of oak shavings, pepper, cocoa and a dry nuttiness confirm the wine character, as does the full-bodied delivery: Dried fruits come through at the middle; Cherry ripe chocolate leads the finish where sweeter Bourbon-like notes converge over the wood spices. Even if the oak is a bit overdone, especially after air contact, it's an undeniable success for a first edition. 45% Alc./Vol.

    Notes from the producers... NOSE: Sweet and fruity on the nose, with tart lime marmalade notes. A faint aroma of fresh cut pine and tropical fruit adds a delicate malt finish. TASTE: A warm roundness encompassing the whisky with character of a tangy dried fruit medley. A hint of vanilla bean, taking you on a long, sweet fruity journey. FINISH: A beautiful long finish with a taste of dried mixed fruit. Lingering with notes of apricot and peaches with a warming finish.


    78 Degrees Muscat Barrel Finish Australian Whiskey (700ml)
    Adelaide Hills, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $139. 99
    Bottle
    $1679.88 Dozen
    ABV: 44%

    In the Rutherglen area of northern Victoria, Muscat is produced from a late harvest pick, which is partially fermented before being fortified with grape spirit leaving higher residual sugar and so a much sweeter style of wine. The Muscat is then filled into oak casks, where it spends the next 5 – 20+ years. Successive seasons maturing in the hot Australian climate results in magical flavours. Once decanted, the empty casks are still rich with Muscat that's soaked into the oak.

    When searching for a fortified wine to compliment the 78 Degrees style, Muscat seemed an obvious choice. Casks were sourced from South Australian wineries and filled with whisky, imparting a rich fortified character and a gorgeous, silky texture. Bright grain and chocolate notes mingle with the luscious flavours of the fortified wine.

    Notes from the producer... NOSE: Rich stewed fruit and raisins up front, give way to dark chocolate and apricot. A faint whiff of smoke on the nose, with rich notes of digestive biscuits. TASTE: Raisins and stewed prunes on the front palette give way to notes of cocoa pops. Dried apricot comes through late, with a tingling spice of black pepper. FINISH: The taste of dark fruit, along with some rich demerara sugar. A lingering note of clove and black pepper, along with a faint smokey note. 44% Alc./Vol.

    • 90
    78 Degrees Australian Whiskey (700ml)
    Adelaide Hills, South Australia, AUSTRALIA
    $99. 99
    Bottle
    $1199.88 Dozen
    ABV: 44%

    When the team at Adelaide Hills Distillery set out to create a whisky, the aim was not to replicate but to innovate. Using unmalted barley complemented by six specialty malts (Biscuit, Supernova, Redback, Toffee, Crystal and Chocolate), they distilled it in a single-shot (husks included) using a hybrid pot and column still. It was finally influenced by a combination of 200L French & American oak wine casks. The result is a curious arrangement that's neither sweet nor dry. The nose is bready - or is it biscuity? Think Monte Carlos or flourless orange cake. The palate is medium bodied, silky and pure with low key spices, hinting at green barley, lemon butter, jaffas and orange pith through the finish. Unlike any other whisky we've tasted. 2000 bottles on offer. 44% Alc./Vol. Batch #2 tasted.

    7K Distillery Apera Cask Single Malt Australian Whisky (500ml) - 7KD065
    Tasmania, AUSTRALIA
    $199. 00
    Bottle
    $2388.00 Dozen
    ABV: 46.5%

    A new 7K finished in a seasoned Apera (sherry) cask. The total maturation was two years, five months twenty days with the finishing lasting just over one year. 46.5% Alc./Vol.

    Notes from the producers... Nose: Candied violets amongst hay, touches of Cognac with heather honeycomb. Palate:  Christmas fruit mince pies without the sweetness, plenty of short crust pastry, followed by a mellowing spice honeycomb. Finish:  Lingering Christmas fruit mince pies with extra allspice, LUSH!

    • Nick's Import
    Aberfeldy Tasting Collection Single Malt Scotch Whisky Gift Pack (3 x 200ml)
    Highlands, SCOTLAND
    $129. 99
    Bottle
    $1559.88 Dozen

    Aberfeldy's tasting collection features a 200ml bottle of three different age-statements, including Aberfeldy 12 Year Old, Aberfeldy 16 Year Old, and Aberfeldy 21 Year Old. Explore the range of fruity and richly honeyed expressions, or grab this for a 'ready-made' and beautifully presented gift.

    • 91
    Aberfeldy 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Highlands, SCOTLAND
    $93. 99
    Bottle
    $1127.88 Dozen
    ABV: 40%

    Reserved for decades as the heart of the Dewars family of blended whiskies, Aberfeldy is now being released in limited quantities in 12 and 21 year old expressions. Recent awards for the 12 year old include:

    - Grand Gold Medal – Monde Selection, Belgium
    - Gold Medal – Concours Mondial, Belgium
    - Silver Medal – International Wine and Spirits Competition

    Tasting note: Bright gold. Initially impressions are of a fruit salad with striking scents of unripe canteloupe most salient along side dustings of dried coconut. Five minutes sees the fruity edge only slightly diminished. Light,silky entry builds into a soft, medium bodied, elegant and delicate malt. The fruity / vanilla combination repeats at mid palate, followed by hints of oatmeal and moderate length. A delightfully fruity Speysider. 40% Alc./Vol.

    Other reviews... Fresh and floral, with lively tropical fruit, honey, and vanilla. Gentle on the palate, with a slight syrupy texture to its malty foundation. Youthful, orange marmalade finish with a hint of spice. A pleasant, easy-going whisky.82 points
    - maltadvocate.com, 4th Quarter 2006 Issue-Vol. 15#4

    ... Nose: Beautifully intense malt with a cidery-apple fruitiness. Gentle oak and honey round off superbly. Palate: Fresh, almost crisp mouthfeel with outstanding sweet maltiness and an almost Irish pot-still firm fruitiness. Mouthwatering. Finish: Softly spiced with a long, rich malt follow-through. Comment: Really outstanding example of massively complex, classy but undiscovered malt. 85 points
    - Jim Murray, www.whiskymag.com

    • 93
    Aberlour A'bunadh Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - Batch 076
    Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND
    $149. 99
    Bottle
    $1799.88 Dozen
    ABV: 61.3%

    Handles water so well, it's like getting two bottles in one.

    Aberlour’s cask strength A’bunadh has long been a darling of single malt aficionados, released in batches and now onto #76 (overseas may have even more recent bottlings). Each varies in proof and flavour as proportions of older or younger material make the cut, but the brief remains the same: Make a 100% ex-oloroso sherry aged malt using the inventory at hand (anywhere from 5 to 25 years old). Keep it natural, which means zero chill filtration, keep it balanced and keep it affordable. No information about the number of bottles from each batch of A’bunadh is offered, but they're large outturns for a global community, which makes for a significant blending challenge. That hasn't stopped collectors and fans of sherried malts from stocking up on those that are deemed better than others. It's easy to be overly harsh or jump the gun with these bottlings. Unless you are willing to be patient and let them breathe, they can be muted, out of balance and slightly prickly at first - a bit like a wine that's uncorked before its prime. That's certainly the case here. Get past the intensity of the spices and batch 76 is closer in style to Batch 74; There are notes of figs, plums and raisins but it's not exactly a sherry bomb, instead American oak contributes an equal level of vanilla richness, amplified and softened by minimal water - which is where this gets a little dangerous. Don't be too quick to refill your glass (or your guests') or things could quickly get out of control. On the flip side, you can dilute away and still retain a surprising level of intensity - which is a bonus. Whichever way you like it, A'bunadh is worth checking out as you encounter it, at least so long as value remains Pernod-Ricard's priority. 61.3% Alc./Vol. Non-chill filtered.

    Notes from the producers... Auburn gold in the glass. Aromas of mixed spices, praline and spiced orange harmonising with rich, deep notes of Oloroso Sherry. The palate blends oranges, black cherries, dried fruit and ginger spiked with dark bitter chocolate and enriched with Sherry and Oak. Full bodied and creamy. Robust and intense finish with bitter-sweet notes of exotic spices, dark chocolate and oak.

    • Nick's Import
    Aberlour Double Sherry Cask Finish 18 Year Old Batch No. 001 Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND
    $399. 00
    Bottle
    $4788.00 Dozen
    ABV: 43%

    A one-off shipment of the first release of this super sherry bomb.

    For anyone seeking a big sherry hit, Aberlour's Double Sherry Cask will deliver. Deeper in colour than the standard issue 18YO, it's first matured in American and European oak then racked off for a final finishing in Pedro Ximenéz and Oloroso sherry casks. It makes the final result wonderfully balanced with fruity nuances. Significant age adds body and develops the distinctive fruitiness to a richly raisined climax. Batch 001, so if it sounds like your thing, jump on it before the collectors do. 43% Alc./Vol.

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

    • Reduced
    Aberlour Casg Annamh Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - Batch 6
    Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND
    Reduced from $130.00
    $114. 99
    Bottle
    $1379.88 Dozen
    ABV: 48%

    Sheer approachability has helped Aberlour become the most popular whisky in France, where more single malt is consumed than any other country. At around 40%, it's a polite, relaxed and sometimes, slightly wanting tasting experience. As an alternative for those who prefer sherry with a kick, owners Pernod-Ricard introduced the natural strength A'bunadh around 2000. Eighteen years later, Casg Annamh was launched as a French Exclusive in a similar vein (the name translates from the Gaelic as “rare cask”). Also influenced by Oloroso, it's matured in three types of casks: European oak Sherry casks and two different types of American oak . Like A'bunadh, Casg Annamh is batch specific, with six iterations to date, some better than others. Whichever you come across, they're all handsomely packaged with a wax seal stopper, while the extra ABV and zero chill filtration makes a world of difference. 48% Alc./Vol.

    Aberlour 14 Year Old Double Cask Matured Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND
    $144. 99
    Bottle
    $1739.88 Dozen
    ABV: 40%
    Aberlour has been a part of the Pernod Ricard group since the 1970s and today sits comfortably along side the top ten single malts in terms of worldwide sales. It's become particularly popular in France and the USA. This one's maturated in a combination of Oloroso sherry casks and first-fill American oak casks. It promises a degree of richness and sweetness without being heavy. In short, the kind of whisky that's given Aberlour such popular appeal. 40% Alc./Vol.
    Aberlour 12 Year Old Double Cask Matured Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND
    $109. 99
    Bottle
    $1319.88 Dozen
    ABV: 40%

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

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

    • 94
    Aberlour Casg Annamh Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - Batch 5
    Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND
    $130. 00
    Bottle
    $1560.00 Dozen
    ABV: 48%

    On a par with some of the better A'bunadh releases? Not quite, but not far off either. At this price, don't think twice.

    Sheer approachability has helped Aberlour become the most consumed whisky in France, where more single malt is consumed than any other country. At around 40%, it's a polite, relaxed and sometimes, slightly wanting tasting experience. As an alternative for those who prefer sherry with a kick, owners Pernod-Ricard introduced the natural strength A'bunadh around 2000. Eighteen years later, Casg Annamh was launched as a French Exclusive in a similar vein (the name translates from the Gaelic as “rare cask”). Also influenced by Oloroso, it's matured in three types of casks: European oak Sherry casks and two different types of American oak . Like A'bunadh, Casg Annamh is batch specific, with five iterations to date, some better than others. Satisfyingly complete, Batch #5 gets it right, being neither too dry and reserved as Aberlour can be (almost like an overaged Armagnac) nor does it quite enter into the territory of over-the-top sherried styles. Given 5-10 minutes, the aromas juxtapose bitter orange peel, dark chocolate and cinnamon warmth with sweeter notes of prunes, fruit cake and vanilla. The palate has enough depth and attack to satisfy those who enjoy cask strength malts while being balanced enough to drink uncut. A moderate sweetness akin to dates and figs gives way to drier Oloroso; Brazil nuts, hints of fruit cake, cocoa and vibrant festive spices add interest. It's one of those appetising sherried styles that draws you back again and again. Of course it's less intense than A'bunadh, but it's neither better or worse. If anything the oloroso is more obvious and it's not as clunky (we tasted it side by side A'bunadh Batch #71). Handsomely packaged with a wax seal stopper, the extra ABV and zero chill filtration makes a world of difference. It's also worth noting that Batch #5 is sold out in the UK, casting doubt on future shipments. While the price is right, grab a few before we move on to Batch 6 or 7 - which may, or may not be as good. 48% Alc./Vol.

    Adelphi Laudale 12 Year Old Batch 6 Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml) - Distilled at Dailuaine
    Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND
    $180. 00
    Bottle
    $2160.00 Dozen
    ABV: 46%

    Batch 6 is Adelphi's first release of Laudale in close to two years. The series showcases some of Scotland's most heavily sherried expressions and on sight alone, this bottling is no exception. The source is disclosed as Dailuaine. 2100 bottles are on offer globally. 46% Alc./Vol. Non-chill filtered.

    Notes from the bottlers... Lyles golden syrup, flambeed orange, demerara sugar, ginger nut biscuits, cinnamon churros with salted caramel sauce.

    1982 Adelphi Miltonduff 40 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND
    $1499. 00
    Bottle
    $17988.00 Dozen
    ABV: 50.4%

    224 cask strength bottles from a single refill Bourbon hogshead make up this venerable release, one of the oldest Miltonduffs on record. During its prolonged maturation, the distillery changed ownership three times. Famed for its robust and oily character that's used in large part in the Ballantine’s blends, official bottlings were rare until 2017 when it was included in a new range called the 'Ballantines Single Malt Series'. At the time of writing, we have one bottle only. 50.4% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered. Collectable.

    Adelphi The Glover 6th Edition 6 Year Old Cask Strength Blended Malt Whisky (700ml)
    SCOTLAND
    $280. 00
    Bottle
    $3360.00 Dozen
    ABV: 57.6%

    Another Adelphi Fusion project involving an international collaboration: This year's combines peaty Ardnamurchan with the slightly oily character of Japan's Chichibu. The whisky was aged for six years. As with the previous releases, it's named after Thomas Blake Glover who worked in Japan as a merchant and diplomat in the 19th to early 20th centuries - best known for his contribution to the industrialisation of the country. 460 bottles. 57.6% Alc./Vol.

    2010 Adelphi Diamond Single Cask 13 Year Old Cask Strength Guyana Rum (700ml)
    GUYANA
    $230. 00
    Bottle
    $2760.00 Dozen
    ABV: 61.3%

    An all-natural expression from the famous Guyanese producer, The Diamond Distillery, also known as Demerara Distillers Ltd. They're the same company responsible for the stunning El Dorado range. It's believed that this was made using the Port Mourant wooden pot still before maturing in x-Bourbon casks and bottling in 2023 at 61.3% Alc./Vol. The outturn was 241 bottles. Non chill filtered.

    2010 Adelphi Inchgower 12 Year Old Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND
    $220. 00
    Bottle
    $2640.00 Dozen
    ABV: 57.4%

    One of our favourite lesser-known Speysiders, Inchgower often shows a touch of coastal character and waxiness aligning it with several North Coast distillates. Maturation in a Palo Cortado sherry butt makes this edition a variation on classic sherried styles with one taster describing it as "...a creamy-sweet sherry board with full fruit that is pleasant and lovely... you can really notice the cream sherry." 57.4% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

    Adelphi The Sandebud 6 Year Old Fusion Cask Strength Whisky (700ml)
    $230. 00
    Bottle
    $2760.00 Dozen
    ABV: 58.9%

    Adelphi achieves another world first in this cask strength fusion. The fifth in a series is a combination of two sherry barrels of six year old malt from Adelphi's own distillery, 'Ardnamurchan' and two barrels of Swedish single malt distilled at 'High Coast', drawn from x-Bourbon barrels. All whiskies in the mix were peated. Named, 'Sändebud' a Swedish word meaning 'envoy' or 'emissary', it's an appropriate title for this whisky, which is dedicated to Colin Campbell, a Scottish lawyer born in the 17th century who moved to Sweden in 1731 and set up the Swedish East India Company bringing huge trade and wealth to his adopted country. 1176 bottles at 58.9% ABV are on offer globally. Due to the limited allocation and expected high demand, this is limited to one per customer.

    Notes from the bottlers... Nose: Mild smoked mackerel, Arbroath smokies, Fisherman's Friends, ground ginger... Dried fruits, bbq smoke slight sweetness. Palate: Smoke, salt, ash, hawthorn berries... Finish: Spices leading to fruity finish. The perfect balance of Scottich and Swedish flavour and a great balance between bourbon and sherry.

    Adelphi Kincardine 7 Year Old Cask Strength Blended Malt Whisky (700ml)
    $290. 00
    Bottle
    $3480.00 Dozen
    ABV: 52.9%
    Continuing what started with last year’s ‘Glover’ release (an uber expensive Japanese and Scotch 'fusion'), Kincardine is another ambitious cross-country blending exercise, this time the result of marrying whisky from Scotland and India. The regime included refill ex-Bourbon casks from India's already famous Amrut Distillery and Glen Elgin Distillery, Speyside, Scotland, plus refill Spanish oak ex -Sherry from Macallan. 796 bottles are on offer. Extremely limited Australian allocation and obviously quite collectable. 52.9% Alc./Vol.

    Notes from Adelphi... Aroma: initially spicy, fruity and floral with notes of ripe bananas, freshly opened jar of Dundee marmalade, green apple skin and lemon curd. White chocolate and coconut ice cream in the development with lychees, melon balls and citrus brullée. Taste: almost chilli-hot spices from the High Ranges of Kerala, tempered by fresh coconut, sweetening to Tunnock’s Snowballs with black cherry cola. Finish: Black Forest Gâteau, ground pepper and a hint of mustard seed.
    Aerolite Lyndsay 10 Year Old Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Islay, SCOTLAND
    $120. 00
    Bottle
    $1440.00 Dozen
    ABV: 46%

    A peated single malt from the Character of Islay Whisky Company, distilled at an undisclosed distillery on Islay, and aged in a blend of bourbon and sherry quarter casks. The yester-year presentation and lack of a back story puts the focus on the liquid inside. 46% Alc./Vol.

    Other reviews... successfully embodies several common aspects of Islay’s peated whisky output – it ably straddles maritime smoke, coastal minerality and natural sweetness. The end result is not deep, nor complex, but it’s well-composed, well-balanced and above all super tasty. Whilst it might be as (deliberately) as vague as they come, this is fairly-priced, evocative and dangerously drinkable. - thedramble.com

    A funny bottling from Atom that is an anagram of ’ten year old Islay’ and apparently hails from one Islay distillery after maturation in 70% bourbon barrels, 25% Spanish oak ex-sherry quarter casks and 5% ‘mystery casks’. The label also mentions ‘peat smoke-breathing dragons’. Let’s hope no one tells the SWA as I’m pretty sure that would not be permitted under their current production regulations. It’s possible the good folks at Atom were also smoking something. Colour: white wine. Nose: clean, coastal and fresh. Smoky grist, barley, heather, soot, wet rocks and sheep wool. Modern, clean, peaty Islay whisky in other words. It’s just a little unremarkable perhaps. Some nice lemony notes emerge in time. Mouth: rather autolytic and slightly yeasty. Smoked biscuits or something like that. Again this sheep wool oiliness, some carbolic acidity, heather ale and more smoky/sooty notes. Touches of lemon juice and a light tarriness. Finish: decent length, coal embers, heather smoke, peat and some peppery and briny notes. Comments: Yes, it all sounds a tad silly. But the whisky is perfectly quaffable and pretty typical modern Islay single malt. For the price tag I think it’s a fair drop. Let’s all buy some so we can keep those good folks from Tunbridge Wells in suitably jazzy narcotics!  84 points - whiskyfun.com

    Notes from the bottlers... A meaty nose with aromas of salted caramel and maple sweetness, hints of leather and big chipotle spices. Smoky and sweet palate with refreshing menthol character, sweet BBQ smoke and intense dark chocolate. A smooth finish with anise and liquorice, lingering ash and charcoal, and lifted caramel sweetness and citrus.

    • 92
    • 91
    • 92
    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.

    • 95
    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

    • 95
    • 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.

    • 93
    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.

    • 94
    • 93
    • 92
    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

    • 97
    • 96
    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

    • 94
    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

     

    • 91
    • 89
    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

    • 95
    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.

    • 93
    • 92
    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

    • 94
    • 82
    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

    • 91
    AnCnoc Peatheart Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND
    $125. 00
    Bottle
    $1500.00 Dozen
    ABV: 46%

    "Won't be long before Peat Heart becomes the peataholic's sweetheart." - Jim Murray

    Not just on the islands, but throughout the Scottish uplands, most extensively in the north and west, you'll find the heart of the peatlands. Knockdhu Distillery (aka AnCnoc) sits on the doorstep of this region, rich in barley and in peat. A natural resource, peat was historically embraced as fuel to fire stills and dry the barley in order to make whisky. Peatiness can be controlled by the amount of peat burnt and the humidity of the barley. Peat smoke produces chemicals called phenols, and it is by its phenol content that a whisky's 'peatiness' can be measured. In this case, AnCnoc have gone to a relatively high 40ppm - much higher than previous editions like 'Flaughter' and 'Rutter' which peaked around 15 ppm.

    Other reviews... Won't be long before Peat Heart becomes the peataholic's sweetheart. Curiously underperforming nose but makes amends in style on the palate. 91.5 points - Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2023

    Notes from the producers... Colour: Pale amber. Nose: An initial smoky burst surrenders to a surge of fruitiness. Ripe pears and the citrus notes of apples and limes with just a touch of tobacco in the background. The nose is balanced yet an undeniable smoky sweetness prevails. Taste: Smoke laced with leather and sweet stewed apples. Chocolate is there too, perfectly complemented by sweet vanilla and zesty lemon. The finish has a lingering warmth with a floral smokiness. 46% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

    • 89
    • 94
    • 87
    • Reduced
    AnCnoc 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Speyside, Highlands, SCOTLAND
    Reduced from $99.99
    $89. 99
    Bottle
    $1079.88 Dozen
    ABV: 40%

    "...so complex it is frightening…a more complete and confident Speyside malt you are unlikely to find." - Jim Murray

    The AnCnoc label entered the scene in 1993 and is now flourishing with a range of expressions and age statements. The ‘flagship' 12-year-old is a sweet, floral, Summery whisky that's all about easy drinking. Made at the Knockdhu distillery (a major contributor to the Haig blends), five years after DCL closed the operation, it was acquired by Inver House Distillers Ltd who reopened it and created the AnCnoc brand to avoid confusion with fellow Speysider, 'Knockando'.

    Knockdhu was founded in 1894 following the discovery of several springs of particularly pure water on the southern slopes of Knock Hill. When production first started, the distillery was a showpiece. Two pot stills could turn out 2500 gallons of spirit per week, motive power being supplied by a 16 horsepower steam engine. Cottages were built for the workers and their families, creating a new community around the distillery. Much has been done to modernise the buildings and machinery since, but very little has changed in the production process. Two originally designed pot stills remain, giving Knockdhu the same "fruity, citric and honeyed flavour" as was first described almost a century ago. Maturation includes both x Bourbon and sherry casks, and a substantial part of production continues to make its way into the Hankey Bannister blend which sells millions of bottles annually.

    The twelve year old is a pale gold-coloured malt with aromas that caress the nose with the softest of whisky scents, almost floral, but there's also honey, toasty grains, plus some fruitiness (baked apple?) and possibly a whisper of peat, too. The palate concentration is good, with spices adding presence to the vanillas followed by a late juicy burst, fading dry and light with cocoa, gentle spices and understated orchard fruitiness. It's all very pretty, falling towards the elegant end of the Speyside spectrum. 40% Alc./Vol.

    Other reviews… so complex it is frightening…a more complete and confident Speyside malt you are unlikely to find. Shimmers with everything that is great about Scotch Whisky… always a reliable dram, but this is stupendous. 94.5 points - Jim Murrays Whisky Bible

    ...The entry level anCnoc is aged principally in bourbon barrels, with a small element of sherry wood-matured spirit included in the mix. Floral and quite delicate on the nose, with barley, apples, and honey. Medium-bodied, smooth, and well-balanced, with more honey, apple, malt, vanilla, and cinnamon. The finish is relatively short, drying, and mildly oaky. 87 points - whiskyadvocate.com

    ...Colour: straw. Nose: I like this kind of fruitiness quite a lot. Imagine a good dose of stewed apples, topped with a honey and caramel sauce and touches of liquorice. Then it becomes more floral (dandelions) as well as obviously malty. A rather perfect all-rounder, as they say. Mouth: pretty much in line with the nose, with the same notes of apple pie, malt, barley sugar, light honey and liquorice (that gives it a faintly smoky/bitter profile). Caramel. Finish: medium, with more liquorice. Comments: it makes me think of some high-range blend. Easy and very good in my opinion. 84 points - Serge Valentin, whiskyfun.com

    • 90
    Angel's Envy 2015 Release Cask Strength Bourbon Whiskey (750ml)
    Kentucky, UNITED STATES
    $1199. 00
    Bottle
    $14388.00 Dozen
    ABV: 63.95%

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

    Most retailers are lucky to get a handful of Angel's Envy cask strength editions each year - if anything at all. This bottling, which is a bit of an annual ritual for owners, Louisville Distilling, was limited to around 7500 bottles. Aged upwards of seven years in select American white oak barrels before being blended into a single batch and finished in ex-port casks, it lands at a massive 127.9 proof (bigger than the 2013 or 2014 expressions). We have one only from a private stash. Collectable.

    Other reviews... The Angel's Envy Cask Strength port cask finished bourbon has developed a cult following, and it's easy to see why. Jumping out are marshmallow, caramel, vanilla, roasted nuts, with a hint of cardamom, coffee, and nutmeg, but true beauty lies in the pronounced pumpkin pie, dark chocolate, raw pine nut, caramel, and sweet maltiness. I'd love for this whiskey to finish longer, but it does give a hint of nutmeg toward the end. Sourced whiskey. 90 points - whiskyadvocate.com

    ...The nose is more restrained than in previous years, offering notes of cloves, barrel char, well-browned caramel, and a touch of smoke. The body is less Port-forward than in prior years also, showcasing notes of figs, dark chocolate, toasted brioche, and a finish that leads more to a prune character than the traditionally Port-focused raisin. Echoes of sweet tea endure as the finish fades — and all of it is remarkably restrained and in balance, a rare feat considering the alcohol level we’re working with here. As always, of course, it’s great stuff. - drinkhacker.com

    • 93
    • 88
    • 98
    • Reduced
    Angel's Envy Bourbon (700ml)
    Kentucky, UNITED STATES
    Reduced from $119.99
    $99. 99
    Bottle
    $1199.88 Dozen
    ABV: 43.3%

    Lincoln Henderson is an iconic Brown-Forman master distiller who helped develop several well-known brands, including Woodford Reserve, Gentleman Jack and Jack Daniel's Single Barrel. His son, Wes, went onto found Angel's Envy. Before his father's passing in 2013, Lincoln worked on selecting and perfecting the blend for the brand. This is his pride and joy, and unusually for Bourbon, it's finished in French oak Ruby Port Barrels for up to six months. If you’re after a premium Bourbon that’s affordable while delivering a little something extra, this should work. Charry oak, candied citrus peels and cherry ripe chocolate come together on the nose with hints of sticky date in tow. Come back after further air contact and you get more nuanced wine input. It’s a one of a kind Bourbon bouquet that follows through on the palate with spiced plums, blueberry bubble gum and semi-ripe raspberries alongside more familiar Bourbon notes. The finish extends that cherry ripe dark chocolate overlay with soft rye spices, moderate astringency and more vanilla and chocolate. A trailblazer when it was first released in 2011, at around six years old, it's a Kentuckian with a delicious twist. Holding it back is a somewhat tame ABV. Look out for the high-strength bottlings, but expect to pay much, much more. 43.3% Alc./Vol.

    Other reviews... A beautiful, mouthwatering newcomer to the whiskey scene. Named for the “angel's share,” the portion that evaporates from the barrel during the aging process, this golden amber spirit is finished in Port barrels, which explains those juicy red-fruit notes that slide into the long finish. Look for orange peel, vanilla and roasted nut flavors, too. 98 points - wineenthusiast.com

    ...Cherry cough syrup, cinnamon French toast, spearmint gum, boiled peanuts, dried flowers, hay, and a hint of sandalwood on a sweet and earthy nose. Creamy texture on a bitter palate, with dried cherries and strawberries, cinnamon sugar, and chocolate. With water there is tart cherry cobbler. Good length on a woody finish, with some vanilla cream and spice.
    88 points - Ted Simmons 2021, whiskyadvocate.com

    ...Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey finished in a port pipe. This is veteran master distiller Lincoln Henderson’s newest creation, and it’s a beauty. Richly textured, silky, and well-rounded, with ripe berried fruits, candied tangerine, light toffee, maple syrup, and creamy vanilla, sprinkled with spice (cinnamon, hint of mint). Smooth, silky finish, and dangerously drinkable! The port pipe notes dovetail perfectly. Lovely just the way it is, but it’s begging for a cigar. My only gripe: why not 45 or 50% ABV? But I’m splitting hairs. I really enjoy this stuff!
    93 points - Reviewed by: John Hansell (Spring 2011), whiskyadvocate.com

    “Five Stars, Highest Recommendation” - spiritsjournal.com

    ...Muted vanilla, light oak, and leather swirl together and are joined are dashes of green peppercorn and syrup-soaked raisins. For being finished for 3-6 months, you’d expect more of an impact from the port barrels. However, this isn’t the case. While the flavors present are nice, the mouthfeel is on the thinner side, which detracts from their impact... If you haven't explored barrel finished bourbons yet, Angel’s Envy Port Finished Bourbon is a good start. It’s not so influenced that you’ll be turned off if you discover you're more of a traditionalist, and if you find that you like it, you’ll have a suitable introduction to a range of barrel finished products to further explore. On top of that, it provides a really nice subtle twist for lower proof cocktails. Credit needs to be given to this trailblazer of a product, however it also needs to be realized that this bourbon leaves you wanting just a bit more. - breakingbourbon.com

    • 89
    Archie Rose Fundamental Spirits Double Malt Australian Whisky (700ml)
    Sydney, New South Wales, AUSTRALIA
    $84. 99
    Bottle
    $1019.88 Dozen
    ABV: 40%

    Fundamental Spirits is a new range of 100% Australian vodka, gin and whisky created as an easy foundation for your favourite drinks. A new addition for 2023 is Double Malt Whisky, featuring a solera of Archie Rose Single Malt and Rye Malt made from copper pot distilled NSW heritage rye and barley malts. Maturation takes place in ex-apera (sherry), bourbon and virgin oak casks. On the nose, gobstopper is followed by toasted muesli and hints of cocoa in a straightforward aroma that recalls young Bourbon. The fullness of the delivery defies the entry-level ABV - and the price tag. There are no rough edges, just attractive fruit-chocolate and hazelnut flavours, as rounded as they are relaxed, while a light oiliness adds texture (possibly a contribution from the rye). A whisky that lends itself to experimentation. 40% Alc/Vol

    • 94
    Archie Rose Single Malt Australian Whisky (700ml)
    Sydney, New South Wales, AUSTRALIA
    $125. 00
    Bottle
    $1500.00 Dozen
    ABV: 46%

    Launched in late September 2020, Archie Rose's first single malt arrives almost six years after the Sydney based distillery began producing spirits. Says Master Distiller, Dave Withers, “We’ve spent an enormous amount of time in research and development and, as is obvious from the six-year gap from commencing distilling to releasing this whisky, we had no intention of rushing a spirit to market as quickly as possible. We took our time, refined our processes, waited for the spirit to be at its best and believe we have made something truly unique, that speaks to the land and materials it was created from.”

    The whisky employs not one but six malts, each with a unique profile and character. These include Australian Pale Malt, Peated Malt, Amber Malt, Caramel Malt, Aromatic Roasted Malt and Local NSW Chocolate Malt. The six-malt mash bill provides a richer and more expressive flavour. The whisky is matured predominantly in 100, 200 and 300-litre Australian apera (sherry) casks, complemented by a selection of x-bourbon barrels and Archie Rose’s own 36-month air dried ex-rye casks, each coopered with a specific balance of both char and toast. “Toasting casks is well understood in the wine world but less thoroughly explored in distilling. The lower heat and longer duration toasting process penetrates further into the oak of the cask and offers an entirely different level of complexity than casks that only feature a more traditional char” says Withers.

    Clearly Archie Rose have gone beyond the call of duty in the creation of this malt, and even a 15ml sample manages to impress. The aromas are charged with roasted coffee bean, dark chocolate and toasted barley character, along with a vaguely grainy / herbal / dried fruit lift - probably from the unusual maturation mix that includes x-rye whisky barrels. Loaded with similar notes on the palate, it unfolds in a thick, chewy delivery glazing the tongue with sweet malt, caramel fudge and vanilla, tempered by a zip of spice in a lengthy aftertaste that adds hints of toasted oak, rye and liquorice. Complex and full of personality, it's unquestionably one of Australia’s best singles - but at the time of writing, supply remains erratic with production limited to around 3000 bottles per batch.

    Other reviews... Expectations were high when the single malt was released, and it doesn’t disappoint. The signature chocolatey, cocoa character comes from the unique six malt mash bill. Top that with maturation in ex-apera, Bourbon and Archie Rose’s own ex-rye whisky casks, and this is a delicious experience. Fascinating to see just how influential this whisky becomes over the next few years. - ozwhiskyreview.com

    • 94
    Archie Rose Rye Malt Australian Whisky (700ml)
    Sydney, New South Wales, AUSTRALIA
    $120. 00
    Bottle
    $1440.00 Dozen
    ABV: 46%
    This is the World's Best Rye.


    Dave Withers has preferenced malted rye (and malted barley) over the far more commonly used unmalted rye to create a 'halfway' style. Why? "Using malted rye creates a more mellow rye flavour." explains Withers. "Some American rye whiskies [which use unmalted rye] are really big spice bombs. We wanted to bring that back a little bit and make something that sat between a single malt and something with that big, spicy intensity. We call this a ‘rye-malt whisky’ because it’s halfway between the two.”

    Matured in custom-made, virgin American oak casks, the wood used here is air dried, meaning the cut timber is left in the open for three years in order to break down some of the harshness. "It gives this really lovely, integrated oak flavour” says Withers. Sydney's wide diurnal temperature range works the casks hard, so the whisky achieves near perfect balance at a relatively young age - around 2.5 years.

    While Wither's admits rye is a pain in the neck to work with - difficult to mash and difficult to distil - he's adament there's something special about it. Instant success has encouraged further batches, so expect this to be an ongoing series.

    Franz Scheurer, of Australian Gourmet Pages and Gourmet Traveller Wine magazine describes the new whisky as “Layered and complex and a pure joy to drink. The best bloody rye whisky in today’s world.” It's already won a host of awards, not least, World's Best Rye at the World Whisky Awards in London 2020.

    Tasting note: [Batch 6] Pronounced aromas of Castlemaine Rock (peppermint & honeycomb), vanillan oak and honey cornflake crackles. Has the mouthfeel of a single malt, but with a Bourbonesque profile. Lots of wood pick up. Normally aggressive rye spices are tamed, so this is softer and sweeter than traditional styles. Finishes buttery, long, perfectly balanced. Whisps of toasty oak and oily grains through the aftertaste. Mouth coating and moreish. 46% Alc./Vol.

    Other reviews... An apple-led nose with dried apples and dry cider, some anise, caraway and toasted bread crust. Palate has a thick, almost creamy texture. Spiced sponge, light ginger and star anise. Initial sweetness dries out with a medium, nutty, dry fruit finish.- World Whisky Awards London 2020

    • World's Best Rye Whisky - World Whisky Masters (London)
    • Australia's Best Rye Whisky - San Francisco World Spirits Competition (USA)
    • Australia's Best Rye Whisky - International Wine & Spirits Competition (London)
    • Australia's Best Rye Whisky - Los Angeles International Spirits Competition (USA)
    • Australia's Best Rye Whisky - SIP Awards (USA)
    • Best Rye Whisky - International Review of Spirits
    • 92
    Archie Rose White Rye (700ml)
    Sydney, New South Wales, AUSTRALIA
    $99. 99
    Bottle
    $1199.88 Dozen
    ABV: 50%
    Tasting note: Double distilled from a mash of malted rye and barley. The nose rings true with upfront ryvita biscuit and muted candlewax; later inhalations find hints of oxidised apple before the bouquet takes on a sour-dough aspect. Mildly oily, waxy delivery includes sour dough, brine and pepper plus hints of dill pickle; ends vibrant and clean with the aftertaste rebounding. Complex and tasty. 40% Alc/Vol.
    1998 Ardbeg Single Cask No.1275 Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Islay, SCOTLAND
    $1999. 00
    Bottle
    $23988.00 Dozen
    ABV: 55.4%

    Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product pictured. This one, in particular, has some impact crumpling to the front, bottom edge. See picture.

    A single cask selection from a from first fill bourbon barrel, cask #1275 was limited to just 252 bottles. 55.4% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered. Collectable.

    Other reviews... Colour: white wine. Nose: punchy, starting in an unusual way, on hints of green olive and even capers on top of a peatiness that isn’t huge but certainly bigger than the SMWS’. The rest is rather classic young Ardbeg, without any big bourbonny notes. Seawater, peat smoke, kippers and freshly cut apples. With water: more of the same, with an emphasis on the coastal notes and a little mint kicking in. Mouth (neat): powerful and very, very ‘Ardbeg’. Ashes, liquorice, smoked salmon, pepper, ‘raw’ peat, tar, green apples and a little salt. Not really complex but impressively punchy if you like them young. With water: clean, classic young Ardbeg, on apples, peat, pepper, marzipan, gentian and seashells. Finish: quite long, with quite some saltiness and notes of walnut skin as well as a little eucalyptus and lemon balm. Faint earthiness. Note that the finish is more pleasant when undiluted. Comments: very ‘young Ardbeg’, that is to say quite simple but very satisfying. I guess a good way of coming up with more complexity would be to marry various kinds of casks, including sherry. Hey, you could even call that Rollercoaster.  85 points - whiskyfun.com

    2011 Ardbeg Single Cask No.2198 Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (700ml)
    Islay, SCOTLAND
    $1999. 00
    Bottle
    $23988.00 Dozen
    ABV: 60.2%

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

    Single cask Ardbegs offer amplified distillery character. They're highly desirable but rarely surface. This particular release was distilled in August 2011 and left to age in a first-fill bourbon barrel for six years before bottling at cask strength in July 2018 with an outturn of 256 bottles. 60.2% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered. Collectable.

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