Eigashima 2011 The Kikou-Ki Series (58.4%, Dekanta, Port Ellen Cask #11055, 300 bottles, 2018)(6/20/2018)-Eigashima 2011 The Kikou Dekanta 3rd Anniversary whisky review: Delicious rich and nutty, so full of peanut brittle and hints of maritime notes, there are hints of iodine and a little ashen smoke towards the end but this really has that Port Ellen chamois leather mustiness quality that I suspect the producers were hoping for. A great mixture of young whisky and old cask. 90/100
Yamazakura 963 21 Years Old (58%, OB, 2018)(6/20/2018)-Yamazakura 963 21 Years Old whisky review: A delicious expression that has a great mixture of flavours, a classically balanced blend that displays its maturity and age very well. A pleasure to be even drinking Japanese whisky of this age these days! 90/100
Carsebridge 52 Years Old 1964/2017 (40.8%, The Spirit Still, Bourbon Barrel, 31 Bottles)(6/15/2018)-The Spirit Still Carsebridge 52 Years Old 1964 Single Grain Scotch Whisky Review: Beautifully sweet but also fantastically proud of its grain spirit heritage, incredibly sweet, fresh and lively for its age. I could easily loose myself on the nose alone. The palate has a little bitterness from the oak wood and a zing of tropical fruit juice but these provide the perfect foil to a mass of white chocolate, vanilla, coconut and banana sweetness. The finish is a little shorter than I wanted it to be, but again for a single grain whisky exactly what I was expecting. 92/100
Lagavulin 9 Years Old 2008 Like A Villain (52%, The Spirit Still, Cotes du Rhone Butt, 100 bottles, 2018)(6/14/2018)-The Spirit Still Like A Villain 9 Years Old 2008 Single Malt Scotch Whisky Review: A remarkably mature tasting 9 year old Lagavulin, sweetened and oaked by its maturation in an ex Cote du Rhone French oak butt. The combination of Islay whisky and French oak and wine deliver a veritable Thai cookbook of flavours! 88/100
Burnside 18 Years Old (58.2%, The Spirit Still, Bourbon Barrel, 37 Bottles, 2018)(6/12/2018)-The Spirit Still Burnside 18 Years Old Blended Malt Scotch Whisky Review: An odd mixture of sweet, fruity, zesty and creamy which rolls around the palate but doesn't seem to settle into a pattern or predominant flavour. To try settle this one down or tidy it up we added a splash of water which thins it out and revealed more creamy vanilla but also suggested refill cask to me. I think I favour this one reduced where it became very easily drinkable but still echoed all of the flavours it had at cask strength. 86/100
Glenlivet 25 Years Old 1992 Give’N’Tell (51.4%, The Spirit Still, Bourbon Barrel, 256 Bottles, 2018)(6/11/2018)-The Spirit Still Give'N'Tell 25 Years Old 1992 Single Malt Scotch Whisky Review: A wonderful floral nose hints at vanilla pastries and desserts, the palate is much livelier and fruitier and dry pine overcomes the drying and tannic finish, a whisky that takes you on a bit of a journey and epitomises the distillery from whence it came. 89/100
Glendullan 24 Years Old 1993 Connoisseurs Choice (56.6%, Gordon & MacPhail, Refill HH #8339, 171 Bottles, 2018)(6/6/2018)-Glendullan 24 Years Old 1993 Connoisseurs Choice whisky review: Apart from the initial sensation of chewing on wood chips this Glendullan expression has plenty to get excited about. Lovely tropical fruits in syrup followed by vanilla tablet, chocolate limes and Murray mints, sweeties for a long car journey on a beautiful summers day. 87/100
The Lakes Distillery launch their first single malt whisky ‘Genesis’(5/30/2018)-A bottle of three-year-old single malt whisky is set to break the record for the most expensive English whisky sold at auction, an historic moment which will confirm the country’s young industry […]
Plans for a new distillery at Craggan announced(5/30/2018)-Plans have been announced for a new distillery at Craggan, near Grantown-on-Spey. It would become the first new malt whisky distillery to be built in the Cairngorms National Park since its creation […]
Redbreast Dream Cask flies out of the Birdhouse in just six hours(5/30/2018)-Irish Distillers, makers of the world’s most well-known and successful Irish whiskeys, has confirmed that the limited edition, 32 Year Old Single Pot Still Irish whiskey, Redbreast Dream Cask, has sold out. […]
Secret Distillery #2 15 Years Old (51%, That Boutique-y Whisky Company, 124 Bottles, 2017)(5/28/2018)-Secret Distillery #2 15 Years Old single malt Scotch whisky review: Initially quite tannic and woody but with a huge body, once it has opened up there is plenty of juicy sweetness tempered by delicate spices. I wouldn't be surprised if this is Tawny Port matured or finished Glenmorangie. 85/100
New Whisky Releases: Week 21 2018(5/27/2018)-New Whisky Releases: Week 21 2018 Benrinnes 12 Year Old 2005 – Hepburn’s Choice (Langside) £48.34 Bunnahabhain 26 Year Old 1989 (cask 7731) – Skene Reserve (Skene Whisky) £177.06 Glen Scotia […]
Ardbeg spreads ‘Peat & Love’ to launch The Magical Whisky Tour 2018(5/25/2018)-Ardbeg Day Saturday 2nd June 2018 #peatandlove This year’s Ardbeg Day celebrations will take Ardbeggians and whisky-lovers alike back in time for a celebration of all things ‘Peat & Love’. Following the […]
Chivas Regal unveils fresh new look for Chivas 18(5/25/2018)-New global campaign reminds whisky drinkers that some things in life can’t be simplified Chivas Regal, one of the world’s most iconic blended Scotch whiskies, has announced a new global campaign in […]
Plans unveiled for handmade gin at Benromach distillery(5/25/2018)-The owners of The Benromach Distillery Company Ltd have unveiled plans to create a handmade gin at Benromach Distillery in Forres, Scotland. Red Door Gin, named after the distillery’s distinctive red doors, […]
Stork Club Rye succeeds in America(5/25/2018)-The Berlin-Brandenburg Rye Whiskey wins double gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition and continues its winning streak. It was a great moment of joy when the winners of the San […]
Bruichladdich relaunch Port Charlotte with new range and design(5/25/2018)-Port Charlotte: exciting times ahead From humble beginnings in 2001, we’ve made slow but sure progress at Bruichladdich Distillery. Starting out 17 short years ago with founders Mark Reynier, Simon Coughlin, Jim […]
Bowmore 20 Years Old 1997 3.307 A journey into joy (55.9%, SMWS, Refill Oloroso Butt, 564 Bottles, 2018)(5/24/2018)-SMWS 3.307 A journey into joy whisky review: Quite harsh, over matured, too woody and tannic and far too strong cask influence - the peat is almost non-existant. Once the tannins have beaten your palate the end result is like licking a bar of lavender impregnated coal tar soap. A less joyful journey than the name implies. 80/100
BenRiach 10 Years Old Triple Distilled (43%, OB, Travel Retail, 2018)(5/23/2018)-BenRiach 10 Years Old Triple Distilled single malt Scotch whisky review: A fabulous nose, the palate is a lot more subdued with a fantastic texture but a little too sour, under-ripe fruit and peppery spiced oak wood for me however. An unusual combination of new make or young spirit notes mix with herbal and woody more aged notes, leaving me a little unsure of this one. Perhaps it needs a little more time to integrate or a change in the cask balance as very little I could ascribe to PX was present other than the caramel/treacle/liquorice influences perhaps leaving it feel much more like purely ex-bourbon matured. An interesting example of triple distilled spirit from BenRiach. 78/100
The Colour of Whisky(5/22/2018)-
Whisky Organoleptics 1. The Colour of Whisky The first of our Reference series on sensory evaluation, or the organoleptic properties of whisky, focuses on Appearance and specifically Colour.
Caol Ila 12 Years Old (43%, OB, 2017)(5/22/2018)-Caol Ila 12 Years Old Whisky Review: A wonderful expression full of mossy and earthy peat, which not only brings smoke but also accentuates an earthiness on the palate which is really the highlight for me. 84/100
The Singleton of Dufftown Malt Master’s Selection (40%, OB, 2018)(5/20/2018)-The Singleton of Dufftown Malt Master’s Selection Single Malt Scotch Whisky Review: A very mealy and really rather good expression from Dufftown, I have to admit to being partial to the 12yo which is an easy drinker for me. Perhaps it is more spirit character here, but I found myself liking this expression better with a view to re-acquainting myself with the 12yo again for comparison. I'm not usually a big fan of spice but this has just the right addition to liven up a thick, sweet and rich expression. 84/100
New Whisky Releases: Week 20 2018(5/20/2018)-New Whisky Releases: Week 20 2018 Allt-á-Bhainne 21 Year Old 1995 (cask 125305) (Rest & Be Thankful) £106.10 Ar10 – Elements of Islay (Ardbeg) £150 Auchentoshan 15 Year Old 2003 – […]
Dewars 18 Years Old The Vintage (40%, OB, 2018)(5/15/2018)-Dewars 18 Years Old The Vintage Blended Scotch Whisky Review: What a lovely well-rounded blend, definitely focussed on mouthfeel this was the epitomy of smooth and from there the luxuriousness of this blend won me over. It is creamy with toffee and nuts to the fore with gentler hints of sherry maturation appearing later. The whole experience spoke of refined luxury and a very relaxed drinking experience. Paired with chocolate this brought out the spicier and dark fruit nature of this blend. 86/100
Dewars 12 Years Old The Ancestor (40%, OB, 2018)(5/15/2018)-Dewars 12 Years Old The Ancestor Blended Scotch Whisky Review: Well constructed blend with plenty going on, with the chocolate pairing the spicy notes were accentuated and added to the finish. 83/100
Aberfeldy 12 Years Old (40% , OB, 2018)(5/15/2018)-Aberfeldy 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky Review & Chocolate Pairing: Deliciously honeyed dram rather quite simple appearing at first but actually quite complex. Tasting with dark chocolate highlighted honey and fruitier notes on nose and palate and accentuated the oak wood and gentle spices of the finish, I liked how the chocolate was drying but the whisky mouth-watering. 85/100
Whisky Boom – Henstone Distillery(5/4/2018)-This weeks Whisky Boom article takes a look at Henstone Distillery in Shropshire, thanks to founder Chris Toller
Glen Grant 21 Years Old 1996 9.143 Graceful gravitas (60.6%, SMWS, Refill Bourbon HH, 258 Bottles, 2018)(5/4/2018)-Whisky Review: SMWS 9.143 Graceful gravitas: A delicious tropical fruit and herbal-wood filled expression that took me way back to Cheroot cigars and oddly fig and passion fruit balsamic vinegar, there is a strong dessert-wine or gooseberry wine like influence in here too. A superb expression, just delicious. 91/100
Roe & Co Irish Whiskey launches new summer serve strategy(4/27/2018)-Diageo Reserve’s premium Irish whiskey, Roe & Co held its second bartender lock-in session on Monday evening. The true Irish festivities were hosted by Peter O’Connor, Roe & Co European Brand Ambassador […]
Roe & Coffee(4/27/2018)-Roe & Coffee Roe & Co is perfect for a true Irish Coffee with full depth of flavour that creates a perfect, full flavoured Irish coffee. Ingredients: 35ml Roe & Co Irish […]
Roe & Roots(4/27/2018)-Roe & Roots A long drink served with cloudy apple juice & chilled soda water. It brings out the orchard notes of Roe & Co. Ingredients: 50ml Roe & Co Irish Whiskey […]
Roe Sour(4/27/2018)-Roe Sour The Roe & Co Sour is a traditional whiskey sour served neat in stemmed glass or on the rocks in a rocks glass Ingredients: 50ml Roe & Co Irish Whiskey […]
The Fancy Co(4/27/2018)-The Fancy Co The Roe & Co. Champagne Serve. Ingredients: 20ml Roe & Co Irish Whiskey 10ml Pear liqueur 50ml Champagne Brut 2 drops of absinthe Dash of spiced gomme / atomizer […]
Roe & Co Peaches & Cream(4/27/2018)-Peaches & Cream Full of flavour, the Peaches & Cream is a peach sour served straight up in a Nick & Nora glass. Ingredients: 50ml Roe & Co Irish Whiskey 30ml Peach […]
Roe & Co The Tower(4/27/2018)-The Tower long drink served in our Signature Copper Pear or in a long glass. Ingredients: 50 ml Roe & Co Irish Whiskey 15ml Spiced Pear Shrub 20ml lemon Soda water top […]
Talisker launches the Talisker Bodega Series: Talisker 40 Year Old(4/27/2018)-Talisker unveils a 40-year-old Sherry finished single malt: one of the oldest and most unique expressions to date Talisker introduces the Talisker Bodega Series: an exploration of exceptional Sherry Cask finishes on […]
Scotch Boom – The Borders Distillery(4/26/2018)-Part 6 of our Scotch Boom series looking at the trend for new Scotch Whisky Distilleries takes a look at The Borders Distillery in Hawick. Thanks to two of the Founders from The Three Stills Company; Tony Roberts and John Fordyce.
Springbank 12 Years Old 2004 (57.1%, OB, Cage, R Sherry Butt, 1 Bottle, 2017)(4/24/2018)-Springbank 12 Years Old 2004 Refill Sherry Butt Whisky Review: Bitter and peaty thanks to the moderated cask maturation but still a mouthful of juicy dried fruits in here that brings this dram to life. Even the more "off" notes, metallic, liqourice and aniseed sort of belonged in this dram. The sort of whisky I'd describe as putting hairs on your chest, quiet invigorating or energizing this one. 86/100
Springbank 14 Years Old 2002 (52.3%, OB, Cage, F Rum Barrel, 1 Bottle, 2017)(4/23/2018)-Springbank 14 Years Old 2002 Rum Cask Whisky Review: A touch spicier and more bitter, I did prefer the Hazelburn though not by much. This has some lovely funk and engine oil dirtiness I associate with Springbank but just enough sweetness from the spirit and the rum cask to keep it palateable. I feel the more rum-casked whiskies I have the less that Rum-cask maturation brings to the party - to the point I am not actively seeking any more. 83/100
Abhainn Dearg 3 Years Old 2008 Cask Strength (58%, OB, 5cl, 2011)(4/23/2018)-Abhainn Dearg Cask Strength Whisky Review: Quite rough and ready this one. Young, spirity, and exuberant but not quite tamed by wood. Reduced it still revealed some odd flavours and tendencies, this really reminded me of agave spirit or mezcal rather than whisky. 66/100
New Whisky Releases: Week 16 2018(4/22/2018)-New Whisky Releases: Week 16 2018 Arran 21 Year Old 1996 (cask 12357) – Old Particular (Douglas Laing) £145.38 Auchroisk 19 Year Old 1998 (cask 14661) – The First Editions (Hunter Laing) […]
Tomatin Cask Strength (57.5%, OB, 2015)(4/17/2018)-Tomatin Cask Strength Whisky Review: Zesty but not overly exuberant or young, this carries water well and retains much of its complexity even when reduced. More wood than spirit characteristics perhaps reflecting the lighter nature of Tomatin. 83/100
Scotch Boom – Ardnamurchan Distillery(4/17/2018)-Part 5 of our Scotch Boom series looking at the trend for new Scotch Whisky Distilleries takes a look at Ardnamurchan Distillery. Thanks to their Managing Director Alex Bruce.
Highland Park 13 Years Old 2004 Connoisseurs Choice (60.0%, Gordon & MacPhail, 1st Fill Sherry Butt #3812, 655 Bottles, 2018)(4/16/2018)-Gordon & MacPhail's Highland Park 2004 Cask Strength Connoisseurs Choice Whisky Review: A flavour-packed expression from Gordon & MacPhail in their new Cask Strength Connoisseurs Choice range. I'd expect nothing less from a Highland Park matured in a first fill Sherry butt. The balance achieved is supreme, and the result highly drinkable even at 60% ABV. This expression was stuffed full of fresh and stewed fruits, the sherry influences lightly adding toffee, chocolate, tannin, leather and spices, and matched by sweetness, malt, and heathery peat and wood smoke. 88/100
New Whisky Releases: Week 15 2018(4/15/2018)-New Whisky Releases: Week 15 2018 A bumper crop to pick from this week with lots of lovely looking Ben Nevis, Caol Ila and even an indie Pulteney at pocket money prices! […]
Scotch Boom – Annandale Distillery(4/11/2018)-
Part 4 of our Scotch Boom series looking at the trend for new Scotch Whisky Distilleries takes a look at Annandale Distillery. Thanks to Annandale distillery owner David Thomson.
BenRiach 12 Years Old Sherry Wood (46%, OB, 2016)(4/11/2018)-BenRiach 12 Years Old Sherry Wood Whisky Review: A great noser, this had a little more of a grapefruit and citric acidity on the palate than I expected but some lovely woody notes both tannins and spices that caress the palate and reward the finish. 84/100
Bernheim Original Kentucky Straight Wheat Whiskey (45%, OB, 2017)(4/10/2018)-Bernheim Original Kentucky Straight Wheat Whiskey Review: Slightly less complex than Bourbon, this wheat based whiskey has a softer, sweet and slightly spiced nature. Quite tasty and nutty with cereal elements add a bakery style / sweetie shop mixture. Very pleasant. 83/100
Eigashima 2011 The Kikou-Ki Series (58.4%, Dekanta, Port Ellen Cask #11055, 300 bottles, 2018) (6/20/2018) - Eigashima 2011 The Kikou Dekanta 3rd Anniversary whisky review: Delicious rich and nutty, so full of peanut brittle and hints of maritime notes, there are hints of iodine and a little ashen smoke towards the end but this really has that Port Ellen chamois leather mustiness quality that I suspect the producers were hoping for. A great mixture of young whisky and old cask. 90/100
Yamazakura 963 21 Years Old (58%, OB, 2018) (6/20/2018) - Yamazakura 963 21 Years Old whisky review: A delicious expression that has a great mixture of flavours, a classically balanced blend that displays its maturity and age very well. A pleasure to be even drinking Japanese whisky of this age these days! 90/100
Carsebridge 52 Years Old 1964/2017 (40.8%, The Spirit Still, Bourbon Barrel, 31 Bottles) (6/15/2018) - The Spirit Still Carsebridge 52 Years Old 1964 Single Grain Scotch Whisky Review: Beautifully sweet but also fantastically proud of its grain spirit heritage, incredibly sweet, fresh and lively for its age. I could easily loose myself on the nose alone. The palate has a little bitterness from the oak wood and a zing of tropical fruit juice but these provide the perfect foil to a mass of white chocolate, vanilla, coconut and banana sweetness. The finish is a little shorter than I wanted it to be, but again for a single grain whisky exactly what I was expecting. 92/100
Lagavulin 9 Years Old 2008 Like A Villain (52%, The Spirit Still, Cotes du Rhone Butt, 100 bottles, 2018) (6/14/2018) - The Spirit Still Like A Villain 9 Years Old 2008 Single Malt Scotch Whisky Review: A remarkably mature tasting 9 year old Lagavulin, sweetened and oaked by its maturation in an ex Cote du Rhone French oak butt. The combination of Islay whisky and French oak and wine deliver a veritable Thai cookbook of flavours! 88/100
The Quartet Blended Malt Scotch Whisky (46%, The Spirit Still, 100 Bottles, 2018) (6/13/2018) - The Quartet Blended Malt Scotch Whisky Review: A likened this one to chewing tobacco, great flavours but a little leafy, herbal and even woody in places. A hint of smoke in here too is a pleasant addition. 84/100
Burnside 18 Years Old (58.2%, The Spirit Still, Bourbon Barrel, 37 Bottles, 2018) (6/12/2018) - The Spirit Still Burnside 18 Years Old Blended Malt Scotch Whisky Review: An odd mixture of sweet, fruity, zesty and creamy which rolls around the palate but doesn't seem to settle into a pattern or predominant flavour. To try settle this one down or tidy it up we added a splash of water which thins it out and revealed more creamy vanilla but also suggested refill cask to me. I think I favour this one reduced where it became very easily drinkable but still echoed all of the flavours it had at cask strength. 86/100
Glenlivet 25 Years Old 1992 Give’N’Tell (51.4%, The Spirit Still, Bourbon Barrel, 256 Bottles, 2018) (6/11/2018) - The Spirit Still Give'N'Tell 25 Years Old 1992 Single Malt Scotch Whisky Review: A wonderful floral nose hints at vanilla pastries and desserts, the palate is much livelier and fruitier and dry pine overcomes the drying and tannic finish, a whisky that takes you on a bit of a journey and epitomises the distillery from whence it came. 89/100
Independent bottler Spirit Still launches at Spirit of Speyside Festival with a range of five eclectic whiskies (6/11/2018) - Independent bottler Spirit Still launches at the Spirit of Speyside Festival 2018
New Whisky Releases: Week 23 2018 (6/10/2018) - This weeks new whisky releases
BenRiach release Batch 15 of their single cask series (6/7/2018) - Press release announcing the launch of BenRiach's single cask series Batch 15
Glenmorangie marks 175 years of exceptional whisky creation with rare single-cask release (6/7/2018) - Press release announcing the release of Glenmorangie's 175th anniversary edition.
Bushmills Irish Whiskey, Lowden Guitars and musician Foy Vance join forces to create the first guitar using pot still copper from The Old Bushmills Distillery (6/7/2018) - Press release detailing collaboration between Bushmills, Lowden Guitars and musician Foy Vance
Glendullan 24 Years Old 1993 Connoisseurs Choice (56.6%, Gordon & MacPhail, Refill HH #8339, 171 Bottles, 2018) (6/6/2018) - Glendullan 24 Years Old 1993 Connoisseurs Choice whisky review: Apart from the initial sensation of chewing on wood chips this Glendullan expression has plenty to get excited about. Lovely tropical fruits in syrup followed by vanilla tablet, chocolate limes and Murray mints, sweeties for a long car journey on a beautiful summers day. 87/100
Irish Distillers’ prestige range of Irish whiskeys hits gold in San Francisco (6/5/2018) - Press release detailing Irish Distillers success at the recent International Spirits Challenge and San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
Blair Athol 20 Years Old 1997 Connoisseurs Choice (54.5%, Gordon & MacPhail, Refill HH #5720, 255 Bottles, 2018) (6/5/2018) - Blair Athol 20 Years Old 1997 Connoisseurs Choice Whisky Review: A juicy, sweet and fruity expression with touches of citrus and exotic spices, mouth watering. 86/100
Strathmill 13 Years Old 2004 Connoisseurs Choice (46%, Gordon & MacPhail, Refill Bourbon Barrels, Batch 18/020, 990 Bottles, 2018) (6/4/2018) - Strathmill 13 Years Old 2004 Connoisseurs Choice Whisky Review: A fruit burst of a whisky; delicious and juicy with hints of vanilla cream and butterscotch and spiced white oak wood. 84/100
Whisky Blog Ranking June 2018 (6/4/2018) - The Whiskyphiles monthly update on whisky blogs popularity ranked by alexa traffic estimates
New Whisky Releases: Week 22 2018 (6/4/2018) - New Whisky Releases: Week 22 2018 Ardbeg 12 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company) £114.95 Ardbeg Grooves £96 Auchroisk 7 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company) £44.95 Blair Athol 17 Year […]
Glenrothes 25 Years Old Batch 3 (49.7%, That Boutique-Y Whisky Company, 139 Bottles, 2017) (5/30/2018) - Glenrothes 25 Years Old Batch 3 single malt Scotch whisky review: A wonderful expression full of tropical fruits and exotic spices. 86/100
The Lakes Distillery launch their first single malt whisky ‘Genesis’ (5/30/2018) - A bottle of three-year-old single malt whisky is set to break the record for the most expensive English whisky sold at auction, an historic moment which will confirm the country’s young industry […]
Plans for a new distillery at Craggan announced (5/30/2018) - Plans have been announced for a new distillery at Craggan, near Grantown-on-Spey. It would become the first new malt whisky distillery to be built in the Cairngorms National Park since its creation […]
Redbreast Dream Cask flies out of the Birdhouse in just six hours (5/30/2018) - Irish Distillers, makers of the world’s most well-known and successful Irish whiskeys, has confirmed that the limited edition, 32 Year Old Single Pot Still Irish whiskey, Redbreast Dream Cask, has sold out. […]
Two world first ‘Method and Madness’ expressions added to the experimental Irish spirits range (5/30/2018) - Press release announcing the launch of two new Method and Madness expressions
Loch Lomond 19 Years Old Batch 3 (49.7%, That Boutique-Y Whisky Company, 267 Bottles, 2017) (5/28/2018) - Loch Lomond 19 Years Old Batch 3 single grain scotch whisky review: Very sweet and toffee'd with occasional solventy hints, even at 19 years old this carries a little grain whisky harshness around the edges. 82/100
Secret Distillery #2 15 Years Old (51%, That Boutique-y Whisky Company, 124 Bottles, 2017) (5/28/2018) - Secret Distillery #2 15 Years Old single malt Scotch whisky review: Initially quite tannic and woody but with a huge body, once it has opened up there is plenty of juicy sweetness tempered by delicate spices. I wouldn't be surprised if this is Tawny Port matured or finished Glenmorangie. 85/100
New Whisky Releases: Week 21 2018 (5/27/2018) - New Whisky Releases: Week 21 2018 Benrinnes 12 Year Old 2005 – Hepburn’s Choice (Langside) £48.34 Bunnahabhain 26 Year Old 1989 (cask 7731) – Skene Reserve (Skene Whisky) £177.06 Glen Scotia […]
Ardbeg spreads ‘Peat & Love’ to launch The Magical Whisky Tour 2018 (5/25/2018) - Ardbeg Day Saturday 2nd June 2018 #peatandlove This year’s Ardbeg Day celebrations will take Ardbeggians and whisky-lovers alike back in time for a celebration of all things ‘Peat & Love’. Following the […]
Diageo Reserve celebrates Father’s Day with new bespoke Haig Club gift pack (5/25/2018) - Diageo Reserve has launched a new stylish Father’s Day gift pack for its premium single grain Scotch, Haig Club. Designed to help retailers capitalise on the key gifting date, the new pack […]
Chivas Regal unveils fresh new look for Chivas 18 (5/25/2018) - New global campaign reminds whisky drinkers that some things in life can’t be simplified Chivas Regal, one of the world’s most iconic blended Scotch whiskies, has announced a new global campaign in […]
Plans unveiled for handmade gin at Benromach distillery (5/25/2018) - The owners of The Benromach Distillery Company Ltd have unveiled plans to create a handmade gin at Benromach Distillery in Forres, Scotland. Red Door Gin, named after the distillery’s distinctive red doors, […]
Stork Club Rye succeeds in America (5/25/2018) - The Berlin-Brandenburg Rye Whiskey wins double gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition and continues its winning streak. It was a great moment of joy when the winners of the San […]
Bruichladdich relaunch Port Charlotte with new range and design (5/25/2018) - Port Charlotte: exciting times ahead From humble beginnings in 2001, we’ve made slow but sure progress at Bruichladdich Distillery. Starting out 17 short years ago with founders Mark Reynier, Simon Coughlin, Jim […]
Bowmore 20 Years Old 1997 3.307 A journey into joy (55.9%, SMWS, Refill Oloroso Butt, 564 Bottles, 2018) (5/24/2018) - SMWS 3.307 A journey into joy whisky review: Quite harsh, over matured, too woody and tannic and far too strong cask influence - the peat is almost non-existant. Once the tannins have beaten your palate the end result is like licking a bar of lavender impregnated coal tar soap. A less joyful journey than the name implies. 80/100
Bunnahbhain 12 Years Old 2005 10.141 Indulgence by the sea (59.5%, SMWS, Refill Bourbon Barrel, 174 Bottles, 2018) (5/24/2018) - SMWS 10.141 Indulgence by the sea whisky review: Sweet, fruity and spicy, fizzy and a little waxy, quite an unusual cask this one with plenty of bite. With a mix of salt and sweet this reminded me a lot cookie dough. 85/100
Laphroaig 8 Years Old 2009 29.244 Weaving wondrous dreams (62.2%, SMWS, Refill Bourbon Barrel, 222 bottles, 2018) (5/24/2018) - SMWS 29.244 Weaving wondrous dreams whisky review: A deliciously smooth and malty dram from Laphroaig with their characteristic medicinal peaty nose and malty body. 87/100
BenRiach 10 Years Old Triple Distilled (43%, OB, Travel Retail, 2018) (5/23/2018) - BenRiach 10 Years Old Triple Distilled single malt Scotch whisky review: A fabulous nose, the palate is a lot more subdued with a fantastic texture but a little too sour, under-ripe fruit and peppery spiced oak wood for me however. An unusual combination of new make or young spirit notes mix with herbal and woody more aged notes, leaving me a little unsure of this one. Perhaps it needs a little more time to integrate or a change in the cask balance as very little I could ascribe to PX was present other than the caramel/treacle/liquorice influences perhaps leaving it feel much more like purely ex-bourbon matured. An interesting example of triple distilled spirit from BenRiach. 78/100
The Colour of Whisky (5/22/2018) -
Whisky Organoleptics 1. The Colour of Whisky The first of our Reference series on sensory evaluation, or the organoleptic properties of whisky, focuses on Appearance and specifically Colour.
Caol Ila 12 Years Old (43%, OB, 2017) (5/22/2018) - Caol Ila 12 Years Old Whisky Review: A wonderful expression full of mossy and earthy peat, which not only brings smoke but also accentuates an earthiness on the palate which is really the highlight for me. 84/100
Top 10 bourbon-matured whiskies highlighting distillery spirit character. (5/21/2018) - We select our favourite top 10 Bourbon-matured whisky expressions which highlight distillery spirit character and quality.![NO FEE 0035 Slane Whiskey Tasting Whiskey Museum[1]](https://thewhiskyphiles.files.wordpress.com/2018/05/no-fee-0035-slane-whiskey-tasting-whiskey-museum1.jpg?w=150&h=123)
Slane Irish Whiskey launches Slane Whiskey Tasting Experience across Ireland (5/21/2018) - Press release detailing Slane Irish Whiskey's tasting tour of Ireland.
Talisker Race to Skye Bartender Competition returns for 2018; promising to be bigger and better. (5/21/2018) - Press release announcing the return of Talisker's Race To Skye Bartender Competition.
The Singleton of Dufftown Malt Master’s Selection (40%, OB, 2018) (5/20/2018) - The Singleton of Dufftown Malt Master’s Selection Single Malt Scotch Whisky Review: A very mealy and really rather good expression from Dufftown, I have to admit to being partial to the 12yo which is an easy drinker for me. Perhaps it is more spirit character here, but I found myself liking this expression better with a view to re-acquainting myself with the 12yo again for comparison. I'm not usually a big fan of spice but this has just the right addition to liven up a thick, sweet and rich expression. 84/100
New Whisky Releases: Week 20 2018 (5/20/2018) - New Whisky Releases: Week 20 2018 Allt-á-Bhainne 21 Year Old 1995 (cask 125305) (Rest & Be Thankful) £106.10 Ar10 – Elements of Islay (Ardbeg) £150 Auchentoshan 15 Year Old 2003 – […]
Royal Salute launch Royal Wedding Edition celebrating the marriage of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle (5/17/2018) - Press release announcing the launch of Royal Salute 'Royal Wedding Edition'
Finalists revealed for Diageo Reserve’s GB World Class 2018 (5/17/2018) - Press release announcing the finalists for the GB World Class final in June, to be held in Edinburgh.
Dewars 18 Years Old The Vintage (40%, OB, 2018) (5/15/2018) - Dewars 18 Years Old The Vintage Blended Scotch Whisky Review: What a lovely well-rounded blend, definitely focussed on mouthfeel this was the epitomy of smooth and from there the luxuriousness of this blend won me over. It is creamy with toffee and nuts to the fore with gentler hints of sherry maturation appearing later. The whole experience spoke of refined luxury and a very relaxed drinking experience. Paired with chocolate this brought out the spicier and dark fruit nature of this blend. 86/100
Dewars 12 Years Old The Ancestor (40%, OB, 2018) (5/15/2018) - Dewars 12 Years Old The Ancestor Blended Scotch Whisky Review: Well constructed blend with plenty going on, with the chocolate pairing the spicy notes were accentuated and added to the finish. 83/100
Aberfeldy 12 Years Old (40% , OB, 2018) (5/15/2018) - Aberfeldy 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky Review & Chocolate Pairing: Deliciously honeyed dram rather quite simple appearing at first but actually quite complex. Tasting with dark chocolate highlighted honey and fruitier notes on nose and palate and accentuated the oak wood and gentle spices of the finish, I liked how the chocolate was drying but the whisky mouth-watering. 85/100
Johnnie Walker My Edition: Innovative Blends for Individual Tastes (5/14/2018) - Press release from Johnnie Walker announcing the launch of their interactive matching of Blend flavour profiles to personal taste preferences.
New Whisky Releases: Week 19 2018 (5/13/2018) - New Whisky Releases: Week 19 2018 Auchentoshan 25 Year Old 1992 (cask 5430) – Cask Strength Collection (Signatory) £141.71 Blanton’s Straight From The Barrel – Barrel 60 £84.95 Blanton’s Straight From […]
Win a pair of tickets to Glasgow’s Whisky Festival 2018 with The Whiskyphiles (5/11/2018) - Competition time! Win a pair of tickets (worth £80) to attend Glasgow's Whisky Festival 2018 at Hampden Park.
BenRiach launches 10 Year Old Triple Distilled Single Malt (5/9/2018) - Press release from BenRiach announcing the launch of their 10 Year Old Triple Distilled Single Malt Scotch Whisky to Global Travel Retail
The Glenlivet explores new frontiers with launch of Cognac cask finish expression (5/8/2018) - Press release from The Glenlivet announcing the release of their Cognac Cask Finished Captain's Reserve Single Malt Scotch Whisky expression
Redbreast Irish Whiskey makes the Redbreast Dream Cask a part of the family (5/8/2018) - Press release announcing the addition of Redbreast Dream Cask to the Redbreast Irish Whiskey range.
Yellowstone® Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Launches Program Supporting America’s National Parks (5/8/2018) - Press release detailing Yellowstone® Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey partnership with the National Parks Conservation Association and Competition
New Whisky Releases: Week 18 2018 (5/6/2018) - New Whisky Releases: Week 18 2018 Aberlour 1990 (bottled 2017) (cask 17034) – Malts of Scotland £174.54 Allt-á-Bhainne 22 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company) £87.95 Auchentoshan 24 Year Old (That […]
Domaine Dupont release Calvados Cask Finish Collection No.1 Islay Whisky (5/4/2018) - CALVADOS – Cask Finish Collection N°1 Islay Whisky A.O.C. C A LVA D O S D U P AY S D ‘AU G E The “Cask Finish” collection is born from the […]
Whisky Boom – Henstone Distillery (5/4/2018) - This weeks Whisky Boom article takes a look at Henstone Distillery in Shropshire, thanks to founder Chris Toller
Glenallachie 9 Years Old 2008 107.13 Andalusian Gazpacho (65%, SMWS, Refill Oloroso Butt, 624 Bottles, 2018) (5/4/2018) - Whisky Review: SMWS 107.13 Andalusian Gazpacho: Sweet and spiced cured meat, followed by more sweet dried fruit, nut and tannin from the cask before the malt is included. Plenty of staying power and takes water well. I much preferred this one reduced but then 65% is a challenge. 87/100
Mortlach 18 Year Old Batch 3 (48.9%, That Boutique-Y Whisky Company, 363 Bottles, 2017) (5/3/2018) - Whisky Review: Mortlach 18 Year Old (That Boutique-y Whisky Company). Quite fruity and fresh with red apples and toffee apples, hints of smoked ham and sweet-cured bacon, plenty of malt but also floral and herbal in places too. 86/100
John E. Fitzgerald Larceny Kentucky Straight Bourbon (46%, OB, 2017) (5/2/2018) - John E. Fitzgerald Larceny Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Review: A complex nose but much more straight-forward on the full-bodied palate, creamy and sweet and plenty of cedar wood. 86/100
The Singleton Malt Masters Selection is launched (5/2/2018) - Press release announcing the launch of The Singleton Malt Masters Selection
Jack Daniel’s launches a bold new cider (5/2/2018) - Press Release Jack Daniel's Tennessee Cider launched in Ireland
Bimber Distillery wins at Bartender Awards 2018 (5/2/2018) - Press release detailing Bimber Distillery's success in the Bartenders Brand Awards 2018
New Whisky Releases: Week 17 2018 (5/2/2018) - This weeks new whisky releases
Whisky Blog Ranking May 2018 (5/1/2018) - The Whiskyphiles monthly update on whisky blogs popularity ranked by alexa traffic estimates
The Borders Distillery® – First Since 1837 (4/30/2018) - Press release announcing the opening of The Borders Distillery 
Roe & Co Irish Whiskey launches new summer serve strategy (4/27/2018) - Diageo Reserve’s premium Irish whiskey, Roe & Co held its second bartender lock-in session on Monday evening. The true Irish festivities were hosted by Peter O’Connor, Roe & Co European Brand Ambassador […]
Roe & Coffee (4/27/2018) - Roe & Coffee Roe & Co is perfect for a true Irish Coffee with full depth of flavour that creates a perfect, full flavoured Irish coffee. Ingredients: 35ml Roe & Co Irish […]
Roe & Roots (4/27/2018) - Roe & Roots A long drink served with cloudy apple juice & chilled soda water. It brings out the orchard notes of Roe & Co. Ingredients: 50ml Roe & Co Irish Whiskey […]
Roe Sour (4/27/2018) - Roe Sour The Roe & Co Sour is a traditional whiskey sour served neat in stemmed glass or on the rocks in a rocks glass Ingredients: 50ml Roe & Co Irish Whiskey […]
The Fancy Co (4/27/2018) - The Fancy Co The Roe & Co. Champagne Serve. Ingredients: 20ml Roe & Co Irish Whiskey 10ml Pear liqueur 50ml Champagne Brut 2 drops of absinthe Dash of spiced gomme / atomizer […]
Roe & Co Peaches & Cream (4/27/2018) - Peaches & Cream Full of flavour, the Peaches & Cream is a peach sour served straight up in a Nick & Nora glass. Ingredients: 50ml Roe & Co Irish Whiskey 30ml Peach […]
Roe & Co The Tower (4/27/2018) - The Tower long drink served in our Signature Copper Pear or in a long glass. Ingredients: 50 ml Roe & Co Irish Whiskey 15ml Spiced Pear Shrub 20ml lemon Soda water top […]
Talisker launches the Talisker Bodega Series: Talisker 40 Year Old (4/27/2018) - Talisker unveils a 40-year-old Sherry finished single malt: one of the oldest and most unique expressions to date Talisker introduces the Talisker Bodega Series: an exploration of exceptional Sherry Cask finishes on […]
Scotch Boom – The Borders Distillery (4/26/2018) - Part 6 of our Scotch Boom series looking at the trend for new Scotch Whisky Distilleries takes a look at The Borders Distillery in Hawick. Thanks to two of the Founders from The Three Stills Company; Tony Roberts and John Fordyce.
Jameson launches its first ever cask strength whiskey (4/25/2018) - Press Release from Jameson announcing the launch of their very first Cask Strength whiskey, The Jameson Bow Street 18 Years Old Cask Strength
Tomatin scoop double award win at the San Francisco World Spirit Competition (4/24/2018) - Press release detailing Tomatin 18 year old success at the San Francisco World Spirit Competition.
Springbank 12 Years Old 2004 (57.1%, OB, Cage, R Sherry Butt, 1 Bottle, 2017) (4/24/2018) - Springbank 12 Years Old 2004 Refill Sherry Butt Whisky Review: Bitter and peaty thanks to the moderated cask maturation but still a mouthful of juicy dried fruits in here that brings this dram to life. Even the more "off" notes, metallic, liqourice and aniseed sort of belonged in this dram. The sort of whisky I'd describe as putting hairs on your chest, quiet invigorating or energizing this one. 86/100
Springbank 14 Years Old 2002 (52.3%, OB, Cage, F Rum Barrel, 1 Bottle, 2017) (4/23/2018) - Springbank 14 Years Old 2002 Rum Cask Whisky Review: A touch spicier and more bitter, I did prefer the Hazelburn though not by much. This has some lovely funk and engine oil dirtiness I associate with Springbank but just enough sweetness from the spirit and the rum cask to keep it palateable. I feel the more rum-casked whiskies I have the less that Rum-cask maturation brings to the party - to the point I am not actively seeking any more. 83/100
Abhainn Dearg 3 Years Old 2008 Cask Strength (58%, OB, 5cl, 2011) (4/23/2018) - Abhainn Dearg Cask Strength Whisky Review: Quite rough and ready this one. Young, spirity, and exuberant but not quite tamed by wood. Reduced it still revealed some odd flavours and tendencies, this really reminded me of agave spirit or mezcal rather than whisky. 66/100
Benromach launches anniversary celebrations with 20th anniversary bottling (4/23/2018) - Press release from Benromach announcing the release of their 20th anniversary bottling.
New Whisky Releases: Week 16 2018 (4/22/2018) - New Whisky Releases: Week 16 2018 Arran 21 Year Old 1996 (cask 12357) – Old Particular (Douglas Laing) £145.38 Auchroisk 19 Year Old 1998 (cask 14661) – The First Editions (Hunter Laing) […]
Hazelburn 14 Years Old 2000 (53.7%, OB, Cage, F Rum Barrel, 1 Bottle, 2015) (4/19/2018) - Hazelburn 14 Years Old 2000 Rum Cask Whisky Review: Sweet and spiced, pleasant but not overly complex, a good solid drinker. 84/100
Irish Distillers announces the appointment of Henry Donnelly as new Distiller at the Micro Distillery at Midleton (4/18/2018) - Irish Distillers, Ireland’s leading supplier of spirits and wines and producer of the world’s most well-known and successful Irish whiskeys, today announced the appointment of Henry Donnelly as the new Distiller of […]
Tomatin Cask Strength (57.5%, OB, 2015) (4/17/2018) - Tomatin Cask Strength Whisky Review: Zesty but not overly exuberant or young, this carries water well and retains much of its complexity even when reduced. More wood than spirit characteristics perhaps reflecting the lighter nature of Tomatin. 83/100
Malt Whisky Trail® and #OurWhisky showcase the women of Malt Whisky Country (4/17/2018) - The world’s only Malt Whisky Trail®, based in Moray Speyside, has teamed up with #OurWhisky campaign to showcase the women of Malt Whisky Country. Home to the world’s largest concentration of Scotch […]
Scotch Boom – Ardnamurchan Distillery (4/17/2018) - Part 5 of our Scotch Boom series looking at the trend for new Scotch Whisky Distilleries takes a look at Ardnamurchan Distillery. Thanks to their Managing Director Alex Bruce.
Edinburgh’s 1st Single Malt Whisky Distillery for 90 years Completes £5.8m Fundraise (4/16/2018) - Press release announcing the completion of fund raising for the Edinburgh-based Holyrood Distillery project.
Biggest single investment in Scotch whisky tourism launched by Diageo (4/16/2018) - Press release detailing Diageo's investment in Distillery visitor centres and a new Johnnie Walker hub in Edinburgh
Highland Park 13 Years Old 2004 Connoisseurs Choice (60.0%, Gordon & MacPhail, 1st Fill Sherry Butt #3812, 655 Bottles, 2018) (4/16/2018) - Gordon & MacPhail's Highland Park 2004 Cask Strength Connoisseurs Choice Whisky Review: A flavour-packed expression from Gordon & MacPhail in their new Cask Strength Connoisseurs Choice range. I'd expect nothing less from a Highland Park matured in a first fill Sherry butt. The balance achieved is supreme, and the result highly drinkable even at 60% ABV. This expression was stuffed full of fresh and stewed fruits, the sherry influences lightly adding toffee, chocolate, tannin, leather and spices, and matched by sweetness, malt, and heathery peat and wood smoke. 88/100
New Whisky Releases: Week 15 2018 (4/15/2018) - New Whisky Releases: Week 15 2018 A bumper crop to pick from this week with lots of lovely looking Ben Nevis, Caol Ila and even an indie Pulteney at pocket money prices! […]
Diageo Introduces the Impeccably Crafted 2018 Special Releases Collection (4/13/2018) - Press release announcing Diageo's 2018 Special Releases collection
Lux Row Distillers Opens on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail (4/12/2018) - Press release from Lux Row Distillers announcing the opening of their new distillery in Kentucky.
Bushmills Irish Whiskey announces the 2018 release of its Rare Single Malts (4/12/2018) - Press release from Bushmills Irish Whiskey announcing the release of their 2018 rare Single Malt 16 and 21 year old whiskey.
Scotch Boom – Annandale Distillery (4/11/2018) -
Part 4 of our Scotch Boom series looking at the trend for new Scotch Whisky Distilleries takes a look at Annandale Distillery. Thanks to Annandale distillery owner David Thomson.
BenRiach 12 Years Old Sherry Wood (46%, OB, 2016) (4/11/2018) - BenRiach 12 Years Old Sherry Wood Whisky Review: A great noser, this had a little more of a grapefruit and citric acidity on the palate than I expected but some lovely woody notes both tannins and spices that caress the palate and reward the finish. 84/100
Bernheim Original Kentucky Straight Wheat Whiskey (45%, OB, 2017) (4/10/2018) - Bernheim Original Kentucky Straight Wheat Whiskey Review: Slightly less complex than Bourbon, this wheat based whiskey has a softer, sweet and slightly spiced nature. Quite tasty and nutty with cereal elements add a bakery style / sweetie shop mixture. Very pleasant. 83/100
