Tamnavulin 18 Years Old 2000 Vintage (45%, OB, 2019)(12/5/2019)-Tamnavulin 18 Years Old 2000 Vintage whisky review: A good mix of gentle and sweet Speyside character with heavy sherry maturation, in a similar vein to Aberlour or Macallan outputs. This is a great expression from a relatively sparse offering of official bottlings from Tamnavulin. 85/100
Jura 13 Years Old 2006 Two-One-Two (47.5%, OB, 2019)(12/5/2019)-Jura Two-One-Two whisky review: Delicious! A great classic Jura expression full of coastal salinity and sweetness and that wonderfully complex toffee/latte coffee mixture and even a complimentary hint of mint present in this. 86/100
Fettercairn 12 Years Old Pedro Ximenez Sherry Cask Edition (40%, OB, 2019)(12/5/2019)-Fettercairn 12 Years Old Pedro Ximenez Sherry Cask Edition whisky review: I preferred the standard 12 year old, the nose has some extra fruit and florality but the PX flavours don't really shine through here just add a little extra to an already sweet and fruity malt. 73/100
Whyte & Mackay Light (21.5%, OB, 2019)(12/5/2019)-Whyte & Mackay Light spirit drink review: Great nose, a little watered down thereafter and that complexity really doesn't come through on the palate which is a real shame as this smells amazing!
Whisky Blog Rankings December 2019(12/4/2019)-Whisky Blog Rankings December 2019 December 2019 whisky blog rankings – Ordered by Alexa Global Rank See our complete (alphabetical) listings here Contact us via the form on that page if we don’t […]
Cameronbridge 39 Years Old Batch 7 (49.1%, That Boutique-Y Whisky Company, 278 Bottles, 2019)(12/2/2019)-Cameronbridge 39 Years Old Batch 7 whisky review: Does exactly what it says on the tin! Very drinkable aged grain with plenty of old oak wood, spirit, cereal and vanilla/white chocolate sweetness all of which confirm my assumption this was matured in an ex-bourbon cask. 87/100
Speyside No. 3 8 Years Old Batch 1 (50.7%, That Boutique-Y Whisky Company, ? Bottles, 2019)(11/29/2019)-Speyside No. 3 8 Years Old Batch 1 whisky review: Much discussion about the origins of this one took place with the overwhelming opinion being that this probably hailed from Glenrothes distillery. As TBWC have previously bottled & named Glenrothes I guessed Strathisla, I'll guess we may never know which distillery this really comes from but still another great wee expression from them all the same. 83/100
Teaninich 11 Years Old Batch 2 (47.9%, That Boutique-Y Whisky Company, 0 Bottles, 2019)(11/29/2019)-Teaninich 11 Years Old Batch 2 Whisky Review: Very spirit driven, just the lightest hints of 3rd refill cask going on here after 11 years. Still great, the time has tamed the distillate and removed any metallic copper character but kept the barley and fruit. A raw Teaninich appreciable for its naked spirit quality.
The GlenDronach launches Traditionally Peated expression(11/29/2019)-THE GLENDRONACH INTRODUCES NEW TRADITIONALLY PEATED The GlenDronach Distillery is pleased to announce the release of The GlenDronach Traditionally Peated; a rare peated expression of the Highland Single Malt, which is most […]
Jameson launch new look for Caskmate series(11/28/2019)-Irish Distillers, makers of some of the world’s most enjoyed whiskeys, has unveiled a packaging revamp for its Jameson Caskmates Series. The new look includes key updates on both expressions in […]
Glengoyne release Teapot Dram Batch No. 007(11/28/2019)-GLENGOYNE HIGHLAND SINGLE MALT SCOTCH WHISKY UNVEILS TEAPOT DRAM BATCH NO. 007 LIMITED-EDITION WHISKY BACK BY OVERWHELMING DEMAND Glengoyne Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky today (Wednesday 27th November) unveiled the latest batch of its coveted […]
Royal Salute launches 21 Year Old Snow Polo Blended Grain Whisky(11/26/2019)-ROYAL SALUTE RELEASES FIRST EVER BLENDED GRAIN SCOTCH Limited 21 Year Old Snow Polo Edition is the first of its kind for Royal Salute [NOVEMBER 2019] ‘The King of Whisky’ Royal Salute […]
Master of Malt Black Friday tasting set deals(11/26/2019)-Master of Malt Black Friday tasting set deals If like me you like to sample around the world of barrel-aged spirits then these Black Friday tasting set deals represent great value and […]
Nectar Grove Batch Strength Batch No. 001 (54%, Wemyss Malts, 8100 Bottles, 2019)(11/26/2019)-Nectar Grove Batch Strength Batch No. 001 whisky review: A rich and syrupy sweet expression, unfortunately I haven't tried the standard version to compare or make comment on the increased ABV presentation here in the batch strength. Very drinkable without water and reminiscent of other Madeira cask finished whiskies with lots of stone fruit influence. 82/100
Flaming Feast (46%, Wemyss Malts, 6000 Bottles, 2018)(11/26/2019)-Flaming Feast blended malt whisky review: A great smoked and maritime blend, complex and shifting much like the smoke rising from a beach bonfire. 85/100
Blooming Gorse (46%, Wemyss Malts, 6000 Bottles, 2018)(11/26/2019)-Blooming Gorse blended malt whisky review: A creamy and sweet blended malt with plenty of coconut influence as the name suggests. This borders on becoming soapy on occasion due to the florality but has a touch of citrus zest and plenty of sweet vanilla to keep it enjoyable. 83/100
Method and Madness Acacia Wood (46%, OB, 2500 Bottles, 2019)(11/25/2019)-Method and Madness Acacia Wood whisky review: Sweet and nutty, less spicy than the cherry wood edition, but still quite thin bodied, definitely my preferred one of the two - I'd love to see and try more acacia wood matured whisky/whiskey. 82/100
Linkwood 10 Years Old A Fine Christmas Malt 2019 (54.2%, The Whisky Exchange, 2696 Bottles, 2019)(11/21/2019)-A Fine Christmas Malt 2019 whisky review: Hard to fault Billy's tasting notes which describe this one perfectly. This whisky is full of fairground or sweetie shop or possibly even Christmas market flavours such as classic donuts, nut brittle and barley sugars. I was hoping perhaps for a wee bit more sherry influence to tip it into Christmas cake or pudding territory but this is a fine quaffable malt all the same. 84/100
Auchentoshan Sauvignon Blanc Finish (47%, OB, 2019)(11/21/2019)-Auchentoshan Sauvignon Blanc Finish Whisky Review: I haven't been a huge fan of Auchentoshan for a while, or rather I haven't had an OB expression that I could really say I liked or enjoyed from their older range. Admittedly I haven't tried an awful lot of their new standard range. This one however is very different from their older expressions at least. Hugely drinkable and smooth but not light in character by any means. The Sauvignon Blanc cask influence is very complementary to Auchentoshan's spirit character here and really adds much more sweetness, fruit and florality. Perfectly drinkable at room temperature, however that sweetness would probably last if this one was chilled slightly also. 83/100
Fettercairn Distillery Visit(11/20/2019)-Fettercairn Distillery Visit A little about Fettercairn: Fettercairn Distillery was founded in 1824 by Alexander Ramsay, owner of the Fasque estate, who converted a corn mill at Nethermill into a distillery. After […]
Tobermory 21 Years Old 1996 Old Particular (51.5%, Douglas Laing, Refill HH #11768, 290 Bottles, 2017)(11/20/2019)-Tobermory 21 Years Old 1996 Old Particular whisky review: Very drinkable old drying, woody, salty and smokey, musty then tropical. Has plenty of that Tobermory oddness like metallic old radiators, which it teeters on the edge of. The end results gives it a lively kick which resembles freshness for a musty 21 year old. 85/100
Bottle your own 40 year old whisky at Aberfeldy Distillery(11/18/2019)-ABERFELDY has today announced the release of its most distinguished Golden Dram – ABERFELDY 40 Years Old – available only from the distillery itself as a hand-bottled exclusive. For more than 120 years […]
Bruichladdich 8 Years Old 2009 The Organic (50%, OB, 2018)(11/18/2019)-Bruichladdich The Organic 2009 whisky review: Crisp and fresh, plenty of barley with a strong and sweet vanilla influence. A great display of the cereal flavour with a sweetening influence from the ex-bourbon and Tennessee whisky casks just adding a final polish to the distillate. 83/100
Tormore 23 Years Old 1995 Connoisseurs Choice (60.1%, Gordon & MacPhail, Sherry Butt #5383, 615 Bottles, 2018)(11/15/2019)-Tormore 1995 Connoisseurs Choice Cask Strength whisky review: Very enjoyable, mostly appealing to my sweet-tooth and love of chocolate. Some cask char influences and a hint of mint in places had me guessing perhaps refill before I fully appreciated the age of this whisky! Plenty of power in here grows from a shy nose to a hugely sherry influenced finish and had me wishing this influence was spread a little more across the whole experience? Very drinkable at cask strength. 87/100
Clynelish launches 2019 distillery exclusive bottling(11/15/2019)-Clynelish launches 2019 distillery exclusive bottling Diageo has announced the release of a limited-edition Clynelish Single Malt Whisky, available to purchase exclusively at the coastal distillery. This unique release will retail at […]
The Glenrothes releases first ever 40 Year Old Single Malt(11/15/2019)-The Glenrothes releases first ever 40 Year Old Single Malt An unrepeatable treasure of the past Every single malt from The Glenrothes captures a moment in time, inspired in the past but […]
Balcones 3 Years Old Batch #2 (51.2%, That Boutique-Y Whisky Company, 212 Bottles, 2019)(11/14/2019)-Balcones 3 Years Old Batch #2 Whisky Review: Hugely sweet, I was really surprised this was a single malt and not a bourbon from Balcones. A fantastic quality as always from Balcones, I fear tasting this reasonably blind that the Tequila cask influence was completely lost on me? 88/100
Fercullen 14 Years Old Single Malt (46%, OB, 2019)(11/14/2019)-Fercullen 14 Years Old Single Malt Whisky Review: A lovely easy drinker, there is a nice tropicality about the fruits in this whisky but still some zest that keeps it refreshing. 84/100
Fercullen 10 Years Old Single Grain (40%, OB, 2019)(11/14/2019)-Fercullen 10 Years Old Single Grain whisky review: Well matured, during sampling I hadn't even considered this as grain but more a triple-distilled malt, hard to ascribe much spirit character this is mostly cask to my palate but well done nonetheless. 82/100
Fercullen Premium Blend (40%, OB, 2019)(11/12/2019)-Fercullen Premium Blend whisky review: A great blend, very drinkable and enjoyable a good start or introduction to the range. 80/100
Auchentoshan launch Sauvignon Blanc finish edition exclusive to Amazon(11/11/2019)-Auchentoshan®, the urban malt inspired by the city of Glasgow, has today announced the launch of Auchentoshan Sauvignon Blanc, a new special edition whisky available exclusively on Amazon. Available to purchase on 15th November (pre-order here), Auchentoshan […]
That Boutique-Y Whisky Company Advent Calendar 2019(11/10/2019)-‘Tis the season to get excited about whisky! What better way to celebrate the countdown to the surprise of which bottles Santa has blessed you with than one of the many whisky […]
Fettercairn 28 Years Old (42%, OB, 2019)(11/8/2019)-Fettercairn 28 Years Old Whisky Review: A fantastically rich and woody character to this one with a hint of medicating herbs, delicious. 88/100
Fettercairn 12 Years Old (40%, OB, 2019)(11/8/2019)-Fettercairn 12 Years Old whisky review: Non-polarising/easy going, a great starter whisky into the Fettercairn range with plenty of their fruity and green spirit character, sweet with hints of spice and vanilla from the casks. 76/100
New Releases – SMWS November Outturn(11/7/2019)-New Releases SMWS November Outturn 2019 CHRISTMAS ADVENT CALENDER £155 CASK No. 7.186 FLUFFY TOWELS AND FEATHER BEDS (Longmorn 27yo) £153 CASK No. 9.170 AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK (Glen Grant 24yo) £140 CASK No. […]
The Whisky World Teams up with Kavalan for an Exclusive Single Sherry Cask(11/4/2019)-An accomplished collaboration between the upmarket online store and award-winning Taiwanese single malt distillery, the exciting Kavalan Single Sherry Cask, selected by The Whisky World will be released on the 31st October […]
Whisky Blog Rankings November 2019(11/1/2019)-Whisky Blog Rankings November 2019 November 2019 whisky blog rankings – Ordered by Alexa Global Rank See our complete (alphabetical) listings here Contact us via the form on that page if we don’t […]
Hunter Laing release Old & Rare Heritage series(10/30/2019)-Leading Scotch whisky specialist, Hunter Laing & Co announce the release of a new limited-edition range of single cask bottlings – the Hunter Laing Old & Rare Heritage series. The collection launches […]
The Glenlivet launches 6 single cask editions across the US(10/28/2019)-The Glenlivet is satiating whisky fans across the country with the introduction of six new Single Cask Editions, each with its own rare and distinctive tasting experience, exclusively available in California, Florida, Illinois, Massachusetts, New […]
Kamiki Blended Malt Whisky (48%, OB, 2018)(10/21/2019)-Kamiki Blended Malt Whisky review: Oddly woody and spicy, it is hard to measure this against other whisky expressions as I have never tasted anything from Japanese cedar wood before. It certainly seems to bring a unique character to this blended malt that is unmistakably woody and Japanese in nature. 78/100
Glenfiddich 30 Years Old 1987 Rare Collection (56.7%, OB, Cask #20050, 200 Bottles, 2019)(10/18/2019)-Glenfiddich 30 Year Old Rare Collection Cask No. 20050 whisky review: A fantastically aged Glenfiddich, the masses of dried fruits and tannic and leathery rancio notes of wood and tobacco had me, possibly along with the colour, convinced this may have seen sherry wood during its maturation? They state officially american oak which doesn't preclude sherry per se but now I'm wondering if this is just a combination of Glenfiddich's spirit and a long maturation in ex-bourbon casks? Regardless this is a supreme whisky well worthy of inclusion in the rare cask collection and a delightful celebration of Glenfiddich's 50 years open to the public! 93/100
Aberfeldy and Craigellachie exceptional cask series launches in U.S.(10/18/2019)-ABERFELDY® AND CRAIGELLACHIE® SCOTCH WHISKIES INTRODUCE NEW SINGLE MALT EXCEPTIONAL CASK SERIES TO THE U.S. Bacardi Limited’s Award-Winning Distilleries to Release Different Exceptional Cask Series Every Year, Offering Rare Allocations of Some […]
Glenfiddich 19 Years Old Age Of Discovery Madeira Cask Finish (40%, OB, 2015)(10/16/2019)-Glenfiddich 19 Years Old Age Of Discovery Madeira Cask Finish whisky review: Sweet, fruity, woody and spicy in equal measures. The Madeira cask influence brings more stone fruits to Glenfiddich's pear-led spirit character and some tannic and funky or yeasty wood is a pleasant addition too. 86/100
The Glenrothes Halloween Edition makes a ghostly return in 2019(10/16/2019)-For the second year running, The Glenrothes is excited to reveal its curiously peated, 13 Year Old Halloween Edition 2019 whisky and a ghostly revelation: Halloween is Scottish! The single malt celebrates the […]
Goslings Black Seal 151 Proof Rum (75.5%, OB, 2019)(10/10/2019)-Goslings Black Seal 151 Proof Rum review: Powerful at full strength, reduced this still has some very spirity nature but the Black seal characters start to come through. 84/100
Goslings Family Reserve Old Rum (40%, OB, 2019)(10/10/2019)-Goslings Family Reserve Old Rum review: Appealing to both my rum and whisky palate, this well aged example is edging into Rancio territory with masses of oak wood influence and still plenty of sweetness too. 85/100
Goslings Gold Seal Rum (40%, OB, 2019)(10/10/2019)-Goslings Gold Seal Rum review: This gold/amber Rum from Goslings has a very different character from the Black seal, much more buttery and subtle flavours, again a great base for mixing/cocktails but also very drinkable straight. 83/100
Goslings Black Seal Rum (40%, OB, 2019)(10/10/2019)-Goslings Black Seal Rum review: A great drinker neat and also a great base for mixing/cocktails. Sweet, herbal, liquid cola cubes! 83/100
The Whiskymaker’s Reserve No.1 (60.6%, OB, 5922 Bottles, 2019)(10/8/2019)-The Whiskymaker’s Reserve No.1 whisky review: I found this a little hot and spirity at cask strength (as presented 60.6% ABV) but this expression takes water well and reveals a robust malty body. Some great flavours developing here but perhaps a little too woody and tannic with associated spice for me, hopefully this will calm with age and so the Lakes single malt is definitely one to watch out for in the future. 83/100
Cotswolds 3 Years Old Batch #1 (50.4%, That Boutique-Y Whisky Company, 1783 Bottles, 2018)(10/8/2019)-Cotswolds 3 Years Old Batch #1 whisky review: A very fresh expression, spicy, woody and tannic, a lovely zingy fruit sweetness. Young and sharp and a little too woody but shows great promise for what is being produced at the Cotswolds distillery, I'd certainly like to try more. 73/100
Kininvie 3 Years Old Blend KVSB003 (48.2%, OB, 2019)(10/7/2019)-Kininvie KVSB003 blended scotch whisky review: Better than the single malt but not as good as the single grain.. There was still far too much of the weirdly fake/plastic lemon citrus flavour and way too much spice in the spirit which I suspect derives more from the single malt than the single grain component. I likely won't be drinking much more of this one straight either. 75/100
Kininvie 3 Years Old 2015 KVSG002 (47.8%, OB, Rye, Virgin American Oak, 2019)(10/7/2019)-Kininvie KVSG002 single grain scotch whisky review: A much better whisky than the single malt, this Rye has plenty of flavour from the cereals as well as virgin oak casks to aid maturation. Remarkable that this is only 3 years old as it feels and tastes much more mature than this. (Spoiler alert) this was my favourite of the three initial releases. 82/100
Kininvie 5 Years Old 2013 Single Malt KVSM001 (47%, OB, Triple distilled, ex-bourbon casks, 2019)(10/7/2019)-Kininvie KVSM001single malt whisky review: Initially I found this far too light and thin and didn't favour the off citrus notes and spice. On revisit, and having breathed a little, this had smoothed a little around the edges, more sweetness and less acridity was apparent. I can't see myself drinking a lot of this neat / with water as single malt should in my mind be able to be consumed. 68/100
Bruichladdich release Octomore 10 series(10/3/2019)-Octomore single malt whisky has defied received wisdom since it was first distilled in 2002. Adopted by the quietly confident, the Octomore name is becoming a ‘cult classic’. Now reaching its tenth […]
Laphroaig unveils pop-up smokehouse at London Cocktail Week(10/3/2019)-LAPHROAIG UNVEILS POP-UP SMOKEHOUSE AT LONDON COCKTAIL WEEK Laphroaig to launch a pop-up Smokehouse bar serving cocktails with an unusual smoky twist Members of the public have the chance to choose exactly […]
Whisky Blog Rankings October 2019(10/3/2019)-Whisky Blog Rankings October 2019 October 2019 whisky blog rankings – Ordered by Alexa Global Rank See our complete (alphabetical) listings here Contact us via the form on that page if we don’t […]
BenRiach 14 Years Old 2005 Port Pipe #3791 (55.3%, OB, Batch 16, 272 Bottles, 2019)(10/2/2019)-BenRiach 14 Years Old 2005 Port Pipe #3791 whisky review: A classic combination of sweet and peaty which I just love! On the palate this has quite a lot of phenolic and herbal influences that preside over the normally much sweeter and jammy fruit from the port cask, an interesting turn around on the palate which I thoroughly enjoyed. 85/100
BenRiach 9 Years Old 2009 Virgin Oak #6095 (58.5%, OB, Batch 16, 322 Bottles, 2019)(10/1/2019)-BenRiach 9 Years Old 2006 Virgin Oak #6095 whisky review: Finally a virgin oak expression I really rather enjoyed. Lots of Benriach cereal notes in here and very complimentary spice, honey and nutty qualities combine to give a delicious caramel spiced latte coffee like nature to this. 85/100
The Macallan unveils new Master Whisky Maker – Kirsteen Campbell(10/1/2019)-The Macallan has appointed Kirsteen Campbell, renowned throughout the industry for her expertise and knowledge, as Master Whisky Maker for its Single Malt Whisky. She will lead a newly strengthened Whisky Mastery […]
Laphroaig® unveils The Ian Hunter Series(10/1/2019)-Laphroaig® unveils The Ian Hunter Series Introducing Book One of The Ian Hunter Story™, a rare and collectable series of Laphroaig Super-Premium Whiskies Beam Suntory’s Laphroaig has announced a unique and exclusive […]
New Releases – 29th September 2019(9/29/2019)-New Releases 29th September 2019 ANNANDALE 2015 MAN O’ WORDS Sherry Cask £145 ARDBEG TWENTY SOMETHING 22 Year Old Embassy Release £600 ARRAN BARREL RESERVE £32.25 ARRAN QUARTER CASK £48.95 BALVENIE […]
New Releases – SMWS September Outturn(9/29/2019)-New Releases SMWS September Outturn Cask 9.168 CEDAR BIGGER PICTURE (Glen Grant 15yo 2004) £67 Cask 12.30 CARAMELISED COCONUT CHIPS (Benriach 9yo 2009) £50 Cask 44.111 SPICY AND FRUITY, SWEET AND […]
Longmorn 25 Years Old 1990 7.130 Musky, floral, sweet perfumes (55.1%, SMWS, Refill Ex-Bourbon HH, 240 Bottles, 2016)(9/24/2019)-SMWS 7.130 Musky, floral, sweet perfumes whisky review: A delicious aged Longmorn full of fragrant and fruity notes and a good helping of complimentary woody spices. Again a very true to form whisky expression redolent of Longmorn distillery character and aged to perfection in a refill hoggie for just the right balance of spirit and cask influences, approaching perfection. 88/100
Glenrothes 25 Years Old 1992 30.98 Bring on the dancers (46%, SMWS, Refill Ex-Bourbon Barrel, 168 Bottles, 2017)(9/23/2019)-SMWS 30.98 Bring on the dancers whisky review: A fairly true to form Glenrothes, I just noticed I pulled (finally) one of the same tasting notes as on the bottle in caramel apple granny! Diminishes only in the fact that the nose is the best part of this dram, drinking is nothing challenging and all very pleasing. A great example of an aged whisky from SMWS at a sensible price compared to OB's but offering just as much. 86/100
Cragganmore celebrates 150th anniversary with 15 Year old Limited Edition(9/23/2019)-Cragganmore Distillery has released a limited-edition anniversary Single Malt Scotch whisky, available to purchase exclusively from the Speyside distillery. Double matured in heavily charred American oak hogsheads casks, this highly prized release […]
Glenkinchie release 2019 Limited Edition Distillery Only Edition(9/23/2019)-Glenkinchie Distillery has released a limited-edition Single Malt Scotch whisky, available to purchase exclusively from the distillery in East Lothian. Matured in American brandy casks and specially charred Hogsheads, this highly prized […]
Pacory Calvados Domfrontais Hors d’Age (42%, OB, 2019)(9/19/2019)-Pacory Calvados Domfrontais Hors d'Age Calvados Review: Very fruity and fresh, slightly ascerbic and drying fresh oak influence with masses of vanilla throughout to complement the sweetness of the fruits. 85/100
Aerstone 10 Years Old Sea Cask (40%, OB, 2018)(9/18/2019)-Aerstone 10 Years Old Sea Cask whisky review: Preferred over the land cask expression, this one feels much more integrated and balanced, some great flavours developing here and also a promise of things to come - I'd love to see these grow into 12, 15 or 18 year old expressions! 82/100
Aerstone 10 Years Old Land Cask (40%, OB, 2018)(9/17/2019)-Aerstone 10 Years Old Land Cask whisky review: An interesting expression with potential, however this still feels a little rough around the edges and reminded me of some not so savoury HP expressions I have sampled in the past where the peat influence is too dry and over-dominant. For an entry-level (£20) supermarket whisky this carries a lot more flavours than most - vanilla this certainly isn't! 81/100
Whisky Blog Rankings September 2019(9/16/2019)-Whisky Blog Rankings September 2019 My apologies for the absence of this feature since February 2019. Unfortunately some technical issues arose in the reporting of these results leading to many sites returning […]
The Whisky Shop launch 2019 Advent Calendars(9/16/2019)-The Whisky shop today announced their launch of their 2019 advent calendars including: The Whisky Shop’s exclusive advent calendar this year: 24 Advent Drams – Whisky Advent Calendar Featuring twenty-four 3cl bottles of whisky […]
Glenfarclas 12 Year Old Drinks by the Dram (58.7%, OB, 2018)(9/13/2019)-Glenfarclas 12 Year Old Drinks by the Dram whisky review: Possible from a refill casks this is full of sherry, butter and fruit in the classic Glenfarclas style. A touch of wood smoke or cask char keeps this entertaining.84/100
Tamnavulin 18 Years Old 2000 Vintage (45%, OB, 2019) (12/5/2019) - Tamnavulin 18 Years Old 2000 Vintage whisky review: A good mix of gentle and sweet Speyside character with heavy sherry maturation, in a similar vein to Aberlour or Macallan outputs. This is a great expression from a relatively sparse offering of official bottlings from Tamnavulin. 85/100
Jura 13 Years Old 2006 Two-One-Two (47.5%, OB, 2019) (12/5/2019) - Jura Two-One-Two whisky review: Delicious! A great classic Jura expression full of coastal salinity and sweetness and that wonderfully complex toffee/latte coffee mixture and even a complimentary hint of mint present in this. 86/100
Fettercairn 12 Years Old Pedro Ximenez Sherry Cask Edition (40%, OB, 2019) (12/5/2019) - Fettercairn 12 Years Old Pedro Ximenez Sherry Cask Edition whisky review: I preferred the standard 12 year old, the nose has some extra fruit and florality but the PX flavours don't really shine through here just add a little extra to an already sweet and fruity malt. 73/100
Whyte & Mackay Light (21.5%, OB, 2019) (12/5/2019) - Whyte & Mackay Light spirit drink review: Great nose, a little watered down thereafter and that complexity really doesn't come through on the palate which is a real shame as this smells amazing!
Whisky Blog Rankings December 2019 (12/4/2019) - Whisky Blog Rankings December 2019 December 2019 whisky blog rankings – Ordered by Alexa Global Rank See our complete (alphabetical) listings here Contact us via the form on that page if we don’t […]
New York Distilling Company 2 Year Old Rye Batch 3 (47.7%, That Boutique-Y Whisky Company, 461 Bottles, 2019) (12/3/2019) - New York Distilling Company 2 Year Old Rye Batch 3 review: A spicy rye but with some real sweetness as well. A really loved that sticky fruity note redolent of maraschino cherries and dark chocolate, almost black forest gateaux just without the cream on this occasion. 84/100
Bourbon Whiskey #1 24 Years Old (48%, That Boutique-Y Whisky Company, 8376 Bottles, 2018) (12/2/2019) - Bourbon Whiskey #1 24 Years Old: A great old Bourbon, a little woody and spicy in places but still has plenty of sweetness and masses of quite earthy vanilla essence to keep it together. 86/100
Scapa 30 Years Old 1988 Connoisseurs Choice (53.8%, Gordon & MacPhail, Refill Bourbon Barrel #10585, 148 Bottles, 2018) (12/2/2019) - Scapa 30 Years Old 1988 Connoisseurs Choice whisky review: Sweet, complex, mineralic and spiced. Surely full of Scapa character whatever that may be? This has been well-aged in a refill cask but still retains some rather unusual and unique flavours. 89/100
Cameronbridge 39 Years Old Batch 7 (49.1%, That Boutique-Y Whisky Company, 278 Bottles, 2019) (12/2/2019) - Cameronbridge 39 Years Old Batch 7 whisky review: Does exactly what it says on the tin! Very drinkable aged grain with plenty of old oak wood, spirit, cereal and vanilla/white chocolate sweetness all of which confirm my assumption this was matured in an ex-bourbon cask. 87/100
Auchroisk 12 Years Old Batch 7 (47.9%, That Boutique-Y Whisky Company, ? Bottles, 2019) (11/29/2019) - Auchroisk 12 Years Old Batch 7 whisky review: Another great Speyside expression, good spirit character and balance of light/refill cask influence, this one becomes quite savoury and salty on this finish giving it a nice twist. 83/100
Speyside No. 3 8 Years Old Batch 1 (50.7%, That Boutique-Y Whisky Company, ? Bottles, 2019) (11/29/2019) - Speyside No. 3 8 Years Old Batch 1 whisky review: Much discussion about the origins of this one took place with the overwhelming opinion being that this probably hailed from Glenrothes distillery. As TBWC have previously bottled & named Glenrothes I guessed Strathisla, I'll guess we may never know which distillery this really comes from but still another great wee expression from them all the same. 83/100
Teaninich 11 Years Old Batch 2 (47.9%, That Boutique-Y Whisky Company, 0 Bottles, 2019) (11/29/2019) - Teaninich 11 Years Old Batch 2 Whisky Review: Very spirit driven, just the lightest hints of 3rd refill cask going on here after 11 years. Still great, the time has tamed the distillate and removed any metallic copper character but kept the barley and fruit. A raw Teaninich appreciable for its naked spirit quality.
The GlenDronach launches Traditionally Peated expression (11/29/2019) - THE GLENDRONACH INTRODUCES NEW TRADITIONALLY PEATED The GlenDronach Distillery is pleased to announce the release of The GlenDronach Traditionally Peated; a rare peated expression of the Highland Single Malt, which is most […]
Jameson launch new look for Caskmate series (11/28/2019) - Irish Distillers, makers of some of the world’s most enjoyed whiskeys, has unveiled a packaging revamp for its Jameson Caskmates Series. The new look includes key updates on both expressions in […]
Douglas Laing launch XOP Black Series with 1979 Caol Ila and 1989 Macallan releases (11/28/2019) - Douglas Laing Represents Two Iconic Whisky Regions with New Bottlings Under Super-Premium XOP Black Brand Douglas Laing & Co, award-winning independent Scotch Whisky firm, has unveiled two antique Single Cask releases under […]
Glengoyne release Teapot Dram Batch No. 007 (11/28/2019) - GLENGOYNE HIGHLAND SINGLE MALT SCOTCH WHISKY UNVEILS TEAPOT DRAM BATCH NO. 007 LIMITED-EDITION WHISKY BACK BY OVERWHELMING DEMAND Glengoyne Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky today (Wednesday 27th November) unveiled the latest batch of its coveted […]
Royal Salute launches 21 Year Old Snow Polo Blended Grain Whisky (11/26/2019) - ROYAL SALUTE RELEASES FIRST EVER BLENDED GRAIN SCOTCH Limited 21 Year Old Snow Polo Edition is the first of its kind for Royal Salute [NOVEMBER 2019] ‘The King of Whisky’ Royal Salute […]
The Whisky Exchange Black Friday (11/26/2019) - Coming to The Whisky Exchange this Black Friday… 
Master of Malt Black Friday tasting set deals (11/26/2019) - Master of Malt Black Friday tasting set deals If like me you like to sample around the world of barrel-aged spirits then these Black Friday tasting set deals represent great value and […]
Nectar Grove Batch Strength Batch No. 001 (54%, Wemyss Malts, 8100 Bottles, 2019) (11/26/2019) - Nectar Grove Batch Strength Batch No. 001 whisky review: A rich and syrupy sweet expression, unfortunately I haven't tried the standard version to compare or make comment on the increased ABV presentation here in the batch strength. Very drinkable without water and reminiscent of other Madeira cask finished whiskies with lots of stone fruit influence. 82/100
Flaming Feast (46%, Wemyss Malts, 6000 Bottles, 2018) (11/26/2019) - Flaming Feast blended malt whisky review: A great smoked and maritime blend, complex and shifting much like the smoke rising from a beach bonfire. 85/100
Blooming Gorse (46%, Wemyss Malts, 6000 Bottles, 2018) (11/26/2019) - Blooming Gorse blended malt whisky review: A creamy and sweet blended malt with plenty of coconut influence as the name suggests. This borders on becoming soapy on occasion due to the florality but has a touch of citrus zest and plenty of sweet vanilla to keep it enjoyable. 83/100
Method and Madness Acacia Wood (46%, OB, 2500 Bottles, 2019) (11/25/2019) - Method and Madness Acacia Wood whisky review: Sweet and nutty, less spicy than the cherry wood edition, but still quite thin bodied, definitely my preferred one of the two - I'd love to see and try more acacia wood matured whisky/whiskey. 82/100
Method and Madness Wild Cherry Wood (46%, OB, 2500 bottles, 2019) (11/25/2019) - Method and Madness Wild Cherry Wood whisky review: Unusually woody but thin, a little sappy and pine-like rather than oak wood. Spirit and sappy with fresh pepper and ginger. 81/100
Linkwood 10 Years Old A Fine Christmas Malt 2019 (54.2%, The Whisky Exchange, 2696 Bottles, 2019) (11/21/2019) - A Fine Christmas Malt 2019 whisky review: Hard to fault Billy's tasting notes which describe this one perfectly. This whisky is full of fairground or sweetie shop or possibly even Christmas market flavours such as classic donuts, nut brittle and barley sugars. I was hoping perhaps for a wee bit more sherry influence to tip it into Christmas cake or pudding territory but this is a fine quaffable malt all the same. 84/100
Auchentoshan Sauvignon Blanc Finish (47%, OB, 2019) (11/21/2019) - Auchentoshan Sauvignon Blanc Finish Whisky Review: I haven't been a huge fan of Auchentoshan for a while, or rather I haven't had an OB expression that I could really say I liked or enjoyed from their older range. Admittedly I haven't tried an awful lot of their new standard range. This one however is very different from their older expressions at least. Hugely drinkable and smooth but not light in character by any means. The Sauvignon Blanc cask influence is very complementary to Auchentoshan's spirit character here and really adds much more sweetness, fruit and florality. Perfectly drinkable at room temperature, however that sweetness would probably last if this one was chilled slightly also. 83/100
Fettercairn Distillery Visit (11/20/2019) - Fettercairn Distillery Visit A little about Fettercairn: Fettercairn Distillery was founded in 1824 by Alexander Ramsay, owner of the Fasque estate, who converted a corn mill at Nethermill into a distillery. After […]
Tobermory 21 Years Old 1996 Old Particular (51.5%, Douglas Laing, Refill HH #11768, 290 Bottles, 2017) (11/20/2019) - Tobermory 21 Years Old 1996 Old Particular whisky review: Very drinkable old drying, woody, salty and smokey, musty then tropical. Has plenty of that Tobermory oddness like metallic old radiators, which it teeters on the edge of. The end results gives it a lively kick which resembles freshness for a musty 21 year old. 85/100
Edradour 12 Years Old 2003 Natural Cask Strength 11th Release (61.7%, OB, Bourbon Cask, 1741 Bottles, 2016) (11/19/2019) - Edradour 12 Year Old 2003 11th Release Bourbon Cask Matured whisky review: Straightforward, massive bourbon maturation, hints of apples, cereal and butter from the spirit but this is mostly cask for me, takes water very well. 85/100
Aberfeldy release Exceptional Cask 19YO Small Batch exclusive to Dubai duty free (11/18/2019) - Bacardi Global Travel Retail announces the launch of ABERFELDY® 19YO Exceptional Cask, the latest release from the EXCEPTIONAL CASK SERIES of rare, limited edition special finish aged single malts. Only 3210 bottles […]
Bottle your own 40 year old whisky at Aberfeldy Distillery (11/18/2019) - ABERFELDY has today announced the release of its most distinguished Golden Dram – ABERFELDY 40 Years Old – available only from the distillery itself as a hand-bottled exclusive. For more than 120 years […]
Bruichladdich 8 Years Old 2009 The Organic (50%, OB, 2018) (11/18/2019) - Bruichladdich The Organic 2009 whisky review: Crisp and fresh, plenty of barley with a strong and sweet vanilla influence. A great display of the cereal flavour with a sweetening influence from the ex-bourbon and Tennessee whisky casks just adding a final polish to the distillate. 83/100
Glengoyne 17 Years Old Batch #1 (49.1%, That Boutique-Y Whisky Company, 1024 Bottles, 2019) (11/15/2019) - Glengoyne 17 Years Old Batch #1 whisky review: A very classy dram with a polished and subtle sherry influence that still lets the natural fruitiness of the Glengoyne spirit shine through. 89/100
Tormore 23 Years Old 1995 Connoisseurs Choice (60.1%, Gordon & MacPhail, Sherry Butt #5383, 615 Bottles, 2018) (11/15/2019) - Tormore 1995 Connoisseurs Choice Cask Strength whisky review: Very enjoyable, mostly appealing to my sweet-tooth and love of chocolate. Some cask char influences and a hint of mint in places had me guessing perhaps refill before I fully appreciated the age of this whisky! Plenty of power in here grows from a shy nose to a hugely sherry influenced finish and had me wishing this influence was spread a little more across the whole experience? Very drinkable at cask strength. 87/100
Clynelish launches 2019 distillery exclusive bottling (11/15/2019) - Clynelish launches 2019 distillery exclusive bottling Diageo has announced the release of a limited-edition Clynelish Single Malt Whisky, available to purchase exclusively at the coastal distillery. This unique release will retail at […]
The Glenrothes releases first ever 40 Year Old Single Malt (11/15/2019) - The Glenrothes releases first ever 40 Year Old Single Malt An unrepeatable treasure of the past Every single malt from The Glenrothes captures a moment in time, inspired in the past but […]
Balcones 3 Years Old Batch #2 (51.2%, That Boutique-Y Whisky Company, 212 Bottles, 2019) (11/14/2019) - Balcones 3 Years Old Batch #2 Whisky Review: Hugely sweet, I was really surprised this was a single malt and not a bourbon from Balcones. A fantastic quality as always from Balcones, I fear tasting this reasonably blind that the Tequila cask influence was completely lost on me? 88/100
Fercullen 14 Years Old Single Malt (46%, OB, 2019) (11/14/2019) - Fercullen 14 Years Old Single Malt Whisky Review: A lovely easy drinker, there is a nice tropicality about the fruits in this whisky but still some zest that keeps it refreshing. 84/100
Fercullen 10 Years Old Single Grain (40%, OB, 2019) (11/14/2019) - Fercullen 10 Years Old Single Grain whisky review: Well matured, during sampling I hadn't even considered this as grain but more a triple-distilled malt, hard to ascribe much spirit character this is mostly cask to my palate but well done nonetheless. 82/100
Fercullen Premium Blend (40%, OB, 2019) (11/12/2019) - Fercullen Premium Blend whisky review: A great blend, very drinkable and enjoyable a good start or introduction to the range. 80/100
Chita 4 Years Old 2009 G13.1 A Complete revelation (58.3%, SMWS, Virgin Oak Puncheon, 622 bottles, 2014) (11/12/2019) - G13.1 A Complete revelation Whisky Review: Fascinating for a 4 year old grain whisky. The virgin oak puncheon has had a fair share of the contribution to the flavour profile of this whisky. A superb introduction to Chita's grain whisky potential thanks to the SMWS. 87/100
Auchentoshan launch Sauvignon Blanc finish edition exclusive to Amazon (11/11/2019) - Auchentoshan®, the urban malt inspired by the city of Glasgow, has today announced the launch of Auchentoshan Sauvignon Blanc, a new special edition whisky available exclusively on Amazon. Available to purchase on 15th November (pre-order here), Auchentoshan […]
That Boutique-Y Whisky Company Advent Calendar 2019 (11/10/2019) - ‘Tis the season to get excited about whisky! What better way to celebrate the countdown to the surprise of which bottles Santa has blessed you with than one of the many whisky […]
Fettercairn 28 Years Old (42%, OB, 2019) (11/8/2019) - Fettercairn 28 Years Old Whisky Review: A fantastically rich and woody character to this one with a hint of medicating herbs, delicious. 88/100
Fettercairn 12 Years Old (40%, OB, 2019) (11/8/2019) - Fettercairn 12 Years Old whisky review: Non-polarising/easy going, a great starter whisky into the Fettercairn range with plenty of their fruity and green spirit character, sweet with hints of spice and vanilla from the casks. 76/100
New Releases – SMWS November Outturn (11/7/2019) - New Releases SMWS November Outturn 2019 CHRISTMAS ADVENT CALENDER £155 CASK No. 7.186 FLUFFY TOWELS AND FEATHER BEDS (Longmorn 27yo) £153 CASK No. 9.170 AUSTRALIAN OUTBACK (Glen Grant 24yo) £140 CASK No. […]
Diageo and HBO release final Game of Thrones Six Kingdoms Mortlach 15 Year Old expression (11/5/2019) - Honor the legacy of the critically acclaimed series with Six Kingdoms – Mortlach Single Malt Scotch Whisky Aged 15 Years DIAGEO and HBO are proud to introduce the final piece of the […]
The Whisky World Teams up with Kavalan for an Exclusive Single Sherry Cask (11/4/2019) - An accomplished collaboration between the upmarket online store and award-winning Taiwanese single malt distillery, the exciting Kavalan Single Sherry Cask, selected by The Whisky World will be released on the 31st October […]
Whisky Blog Rankings November 2019 (11/1/2019) - Whisky Blog Rankings November 2019 November 2019 whisky blog rankings – Ordered by Alexa Global Rank See our complete (alphabetical) listings here Contact us via the form on that page if we don’t […]
Hunter Laing release Old & Rare Heritage series (10/30/2019) - Leading Scotch whisky specialist, Hunter Laing & Co announce the release of a new limited-edition range of single cask bottlings – the Hunter Laing Old & Rare Heritage series. The collection launches […]
John Dewar & Sons release Aberfeldy 15 Year Old finished in Pomerol French wine casks (10/30/2019) - John Dewar & Sons unveils its latest expression from The Golden Dram – ABERFELDY 15 Years Old, finished in French wine casks from Pomerol, Bordeaux. The finest quality red wine casks from Pomerol were […]
Chattanooga Whiskey release Experimental Single Batch Series: Batch 011 and Batch 012. (10/28/2019) - Chattanooga Whiskey today announced the autumn releases of Experimental Single Batch Series: Batch 011 and Batch 012. Hand-crafted at the Chattanooga Whiskey Experimental Distillery in downtown Chattanooga, Batch 011 and Batch 012 […]
Decades II, the new single malt that celebrates 50 years of excellence at Tomatin Distillery (10/28/2019) - Award winning Highland distillery, Tomatin, has today announced the release of an exquisite single malt whisky: Decades II. The unique expression is a marriage of 21 casks, selected from key years throughout the […]
Aberfeldy release 15 Year Old Exceptional Cask Sherry Finish Exclusive to Global Travel Retail (10/28/2019) - Bacardi Global Travel Retail and Gebr. Heinemann are partnering for the release of ABERFELDY Exceptional Cask 15 YO Sherry Finish. This is the latest launch from the EXCEPTIONAL CASK SERIES of rare, […]
The Glenlivet launches 6 single cask editions across the US (10/28/2019) - The Glenlivet is satiating whisky fans across the country with the introduction of six new Single Cask Editions, each with its own rare and distinctive tasting experience, exclusively available in California, Florida, Illinois, Massachusetts, New […]
Kamiki Blended Malt Whisky (48%, OB, 2018) (10/21/2019) - Kamiki Blended Malt Whisky review: Oddly woody and spicy, it is hard to measure this against other whisky expressions as I have never tasted anything from Japanese cedar wood before. It certainly seems to bring a unique character to this blended malt that is unmistakably woody and Japanese in nature. 78/100
Glenfiddich 30 Years Old 1987 Rare Collection (56.7%, OB, Cask #20050, 200 Bottles, 2019) (10/18/2019) - Glenfiddich 30 Year Old Rare Collection Cask No. 20050 whisky review: A fantastically aged Glenfiddich, the masses of dried fruits and tannic and leathery rancio notes of wood and tobacco had me, possibly along with the colour, convinced this may have seen sherry wood during its maturation? They state officially american oak which doesn't preclude sherry per se but now I'm wondering if this is just a combination of Glenfiddich's spirit and a long maturation in ex-bourbon casks? Regardless this is a supreme whisky well worthy of inclusion in the rare cask collection and a delightful celebration of Glenfiddich's 50 years open to the public! 93/100
Aberfeldy and Craigellachie exceptional cask series launches in U.S. (10/18/2019) - ABERFELDY® AND CRAIGELLACHIE® SCOTCH WHISKIES INTRODUCE NEW SINGLE MALT EXCEPTIONAL CASK SERIES TO THE U.S. Bacardi Limited’s Award-Winning Distilleries to Release Different Exceptional Cask Series Every Year, Offering Rare Allocations of Some […]
Glenfiddich 19 Years Old Age Of Discovery Red Wine Cask Finish (40%, OB, 2015) (10/17/2019) - Glenfiddich 19 Years Old Age Of Discovery Red Wine Cask Finish whisky review: This Red Wine finished expression is sweet and creamy then the woody tannins emerge as it progresses, another fantastic expression! 87/100
New Releases – 17th October 2019 (10/17/2019) - This weeks new whisky releases
Glenfiddich 19 Years Old Age Of Discovery Madeira Cask Finish (40%, OB, 2015) (10/16/2019) - Glenfiddich 19 Years Old Age Of Discovery Madeira Cask Finish whisky review: Sweet, fruity, woody and spicy in equal measures. The Madeira cask influence brings more stone fruits to Glenfiddich's pear-led spirit character and some tannic and funky or yeasty wood is a pleasant addition too. 86/100
The Lakes Distillery celebrates their first single malt selling out by releasing The Whiskymaker’s Reserve No.2. (10/16/2019) - Following the sale of all 5,992 individually numbered bottles of their first widely available single malt whisky in just five weeks, The Lakes Distillery has unveiled the second release in The Whiskymaker’s […]
The Glenrothes Halloween Edition makes a ghostly return in 2019 (10/16/2019) - For the second year running, The Glenrothes is excited to reveal its curiously peated, 13 Year Old Halloween Edition 2019 whisky and a ghostly revelation: Halloween is Scottish! The single malt celebrates the […]
Diageo’s ‘Rare by Nature’ 2019 Special Releases collection launched with bottles celebrating each distilleries local flora and fauna (10/16/2019) - Diageo announces the highly anticipated launch of the 2019 ‘Rare by Nature’ inspired Special Releases collection. Comprised of eight cask strength single malt Scotch whiskies from some of Scotland’s most renowned distilleries, […]
Goslings Black Seal 151 Proof Rum (75.5%, OB, 2019) (10/10/2019) - Goslings Black Seal 151 Proof Rum review: Powerful at full strength, reduced this still has some very spirity nature but the Black seal characters start to come through. 84/100
Goslings Family Reserve Old Rum (40%, OB, 2019) (10/10/2019) - Goslings Family Reserve Old Rum review: Appealing to both my rum and whisky palate, this well aged example is edging into Rancio territory with masses of oak wood influence and still plenty of sweetness too. 85/100
Goslings Gold Seal Rum (40%, OB, 2019) (10/10/2019) - Goslings Gold Seal Rum review: This gold/amber Rum from Goslings has a very different character from the Black seal, much more buttery and subtle flavours, again a great base for mixing/cocktails but also very drinkable straight. 83/100
Goslings Black Seal Rum (40%, OB, 2019) (10/10/2019) - Goslings Black Seal Rum review: A great drinker neat and also a great base for mixing/cocktails. Sweet, herbal, liquid cola cubes! 83/100
The Whiskymaker’s Reserve No.1 (60.6%, OB, 5922 Bottles, 2019) (10/8/2019) - The Whiskymaker’s Reserve No.1 whisky review: I found this a little hot and spirity at cask strength (as presented 60.6% ABV) but this expression takes water well and reveals a robust malty body. Some great flavours developing here but perhaps a little too woody and tannic with associated spice for me, hopefully this will calm with age and so the Lakes single malt is definitely one to watch out for in the future. 83/100
Cotswolds 3 Years Old Batch #1 (50.4%, That Boutique-Y Whisky Company, 1783 Bottles, 2018) (10/8/2019) - Cotswolds 3 Years Old Batch #1 whisky review: A very fresh expression, spicy, woody and tannic, a lovely zingy fruit sweetness. Young and sharp and a little too woody but shows great promise for what is being produced at the Cotswolds distillery, I'd certainly like to try more. 73/100
Kininvie 3 Years Old Blend KVSB003 (48.2%, OB, 2019) (10/7/2019) - Kininvie KVSB003 blended scotch whisky review: Better than the single malt but not as good as the single grain.. There was still far too much of the weirdly fake/plastic lemon citrus flavour and way too much spice in the spirit which I suspect derives more from the single malt than the single grain component. I likely won't be drinking much more of this one straight either. 75/100
Kininvie 3 Years Old 2015 KVSG002 (47.8%, OB, Rye, Virgin American Oak, 2019) (10/7/2019) - Kininvie KVSG002 single grain scotch whisky review: A much better whisky than the single malt, this Rye has plenty of flavour from the cereals as well as virgin oak casks to aid maturation. Remarkable that this is only 3 years old as it feels and tastes much more mature than this. (Spoiler alert) this was my favourite of the three initial releases. 82/100
Kininvie 5 Years Old 2013 Single Malt KVSM001 (47%, OB, Triple distilled, ex-bourbon casks, 2019) (10/7/2019) - Kininvie KVSM001single malt whisky review: Initially I found this far too light and thin and didn't favour the off citrus notes and spice. On revisit, and having breathed a little, this had smoothed a little around the edges, more sweetness and less acridity was apparent. I can't see myself drinking a lot of this neat / with water as single malt should in my mind be able to be consumed. 68/100
The Singleton of Glen Ord launches its first ever distillery only exclusive bottling (10/4/2019) - The Singleton of Glen Ord distillery has released its first ever limited-edition Single Malt Scotch whisky that is exclusively available to purchase at the Highland distillery. With just 6000 bottles available, The […]
BenRiach 25 Years Old 1993 Rioja Cask #7881 (54.3%, OB, Batch 16, 231 Bottles, 2019) (10/3/2019) - BenRiach 25 Years Old 1993 Rioja Cask #7881 whisky review: A great red wine influenced expression, fruity, full of dark chocolate and woody oak tannins. 90/100
Bruichladdich release Octomore 10 series (10/3/2019) - Octomore single malt whisky has defied received wisdom since it was first distilled in 2002. Adopted by the quietly confident, the Octomore name is becoming a ‘cult classic’. Now reaching its tenth […]
Laphroaig unveils pop-up smokehouse at London Cocktail Week (10/3/2019) - LAPHROAIG UNVEILS POP-UP SMOKEHOUSE AT LONDON COCKTAIL WEEK Laphroaig to launch a pop-up Smokehouse bar serving cocktails with an unusual smoky twist Members of the public have the chance to choose exactly […]
Wemyss Malts reintroduces ‘Nectar Grove’ Madeira cask finish as a limited edition Batch Strength release. (10/3/2019) - Scottish family whisky makers, Wemyss Malts, has reintroduced the award-winning, limited edition blended malt Scotch whisky named ‘Nectar Grove’ by bottling it as a Batch Strength release. Nectar Grove is a combination […]
Midleton Very Rare 2019 unveiled as online members’ programme launches with sale of rare vintages (10/3/2019) - Irish Distillers, makers of some of the world’s most enjoyed whiskeys, has unveiled the eagerly awaited Midleton Very Rare 2019, alongside the launch of the ‘1825 Room’, an online members’ programme for discerning […]
Whisky Blog Rankings October 2019 (10/3/2019) - Whisky Blog Rankings October 2019 October 2019 whisky blog rankings – Ordered by Alexa Global Rank See our complete (alphabetical) listings here Contact us via the form on that page if we don’t […]
BenRiach 14 Years Old 2005 Port Pipe #3791 (55.3%, OB, Batch 16, 272 Bottles, 2019) (10/2/2019) - BenRiach 14 Years Old 2005 Port Pipe #3791 whisky review: A classic combination of sweet and peaty which I just love! On the palate this has quite a lot of phenolic and herbal influences that preside over the normally much sweeter and jammy fruit from the port cask, an interesting turn around on the palate which I thoroughly enjoyed. 85/100
BenRiach 9 Years Old 2009 Virgin Oak #6095 (58.5%, OB, Batch 16, 322 Bottles, 2019) (10/1/2019) - BenRiach 9 Years Old 2006 Virgin Oak #6095 whisky review: Finally a virgin oak expression I really rather enjoyed. Lots of Benriach cereal notes in here and very complimentary spice, honey and nutty qualities combine to give a delicious caramel spiced latte coffee like nature to this. 85/100
The Macallan unveils new Master Whisky Maker – Kirsteen Campbell (10/1/2019) - The Macallan has appointed Kirsteen Campbell, renowned throughout the industry for her expertise and knowledge, as Master Whisky Maker for its Single Malt Whisky. She will lead a newly strengthened Whisky Mastery […]
Laphroaig® unveils The Ian Hunter Series (10/1/2019) - Laphroaig® unveils The Ian Hunter Series Introducing Book One of The Ian Hunter Story™, a rare and collectable series of Laphroaig Super-Premium Whiskies Beam Suntory’s Laphroaig has announced a unique and exclusive […]
Longmorn 25 Years Old 1990 7.130 Musky, floral, sweet perfumes (55.1%, SMWS, Refill Ex-Bourbon HH, 240 Bottles, 2016) (9/24/2019) - SMWS 7.130 Musky, floral, sweet perfumes whisky review: A delicious aged Longmorn full of fragrant and fruity notes and a good helping of complimentary woody spices. Again a very true to form whisky expression redolent of Longmorn distillery character and aged to perfection in a refill hoggie for just the right balance of spirit and cask influences, approaching perfection. 88/100
Glenrothes 25 Years Old 1992 30.98 Bring on the dancers (46%, SMWS, Refill Ex-Bourbon Barrel, 168 Bottles, 2017) (9/23/2019) - SMWS 30.98 Bring on the dancers whisky review: A fairly true to form Glenrothes, I just noticed I pulled (finally) one of the same tasting notes as on the bottle in caramel apple granny! Diminishes only in the fact that the nose is the best part of this dram, drinking is nothing challenging and all very pleasing. A great example of an aged whisky from SMWS at a sensible price compared to OB's but offering just as much. 86/100
Cragganmore celebrates 150th anniversary with 15 Year old Limited Edition (9/23/2019) - Cragganmore Distillery has released a limited-edition anniversary Single Malt Scotch whisky, available to purchase exclusively from the Speyside distillery. Double matured in heavily charred American oak hogsheads casks, this highly prized release […]
Glenkinchie release 2019 Limited Edition Distillery Only Edition (9/23/2019) - Glenkinchie Distillery has released a limited-edition Single Malt Scotch whisky, available to purchase exclusively from the distillery in East Lothian. Matured in American brandy casks and specially charred Hogsheads, this highly prized […]
Pacory Calvados Domfrontais Hors d’Age (42%, OB, 2019) (9/19/2019) - Pacory Calvados Domfrontais Hors d'Age Calvados Review: Very fruity and fresh, slightly ascerbic and drying fresh oak influence with masses of vanilla throughout to complement the sweetness of the fruits. 85/100
Aerstone 10 Years Old Sea Cask (40%, OB, 2018) (9/18/2019) - Aerstone 10 Years Old Sea Cask whisky review: Preferred over the land cask expression, this one feels much more integrated and balanced, some great flavours developing here and also a promise of things to come - I'd love to see these grow into 12, 15 or 18 year old expressions! 82/100
Aerstone 10 Years Old Land Cask (40%, OB, 2018) (9/17/2019) - Aerstone 10 Years Old Land Cask whisky review: An interesting expression with potential, however this still feels a little rough around the edges and reminded me of some not so savoury HP expressions I have sampled in the past where the peat influence is too dry and over-dominant. For an entry-level (£20) supermarket whisky this carries a lot more flavours than most - vanilla this certainly isn't! 81/100
Whisky Blog Rankings September 2019 (9/16/2019) - Whisky Blog Rankings September 2019 My apologies for the absence of this feature since February 2019. Unfortunately some technical issues arose in the reporting of these results leading to many sites returning […]
INTRODUCING EDITION NO.5; A CELEBRATION OF THE MACALLAN’S NATURAL COLOUR (9/16/2019) - The Macallan Edition No.5 is our very own homage to the diversity and complexity of natural colour. Inspired by a coming together of whisky making mastery and colour expertise and insight, this […]
The Whisky Shop launch 2019 Advent Calendars (9/16/2019) - The Whisky shop today announced their launch of their 2019 advent calendars including: The Whisky Shop’s exclusive advent calendar this year: 24 Advent Drams – Whisky Advent Calendar Featuring twenty-four 3cl bottles of whisky […]
Glenfarclas 12 Year Old Drinks by the Dram (58.7%, OB, 2018) (9/13/2019) - Glenfarclas 12 Year Old Drinks by the Dram whisky review: Possible from a refill casks this is full of sherry, butter and fruit in the classic Glenfarclas style. A touch of wood smoke or cask char keeps this entertaining.84/100
THE MACALLAN FINE AND RARE 1979 – THE LATEST ADDITION TO THE UNRIVALLED COLLECTION (9/13/2019) - Forty years in the making – The Macallan Fine and Rare 1979 is the prestigious new vintage to be welcomed into the brand’s Fine and Rare collection, which was created to […]
