The Whiskymaker’s Reserve No.3 (54%, OB, 9700 Bottles, 2020)(7/12/2020)-The Whiskymaker’s Reserve No.3 Whisky Review: A definite move in the right direction in this series, delivered at a more approachable ABV. This has a super nose but sadly it is not totally backed up on the palate. Perhaps an indication of the Lakes young spirit, given time (maturation) perhaps this inbalance will be redressed? 85/100
Aerolite Lyndsay 10 Years Old (46%, The Character of Islay Whisky Co, 2019)(7/10/2020)-Aerolite Lyndsay 10 Years Old whisky review: A fairly complex construction leave classic Islay peat and maritime influence and me guessing at distillery character, I guess the point here is to focus on some of the great characteristics of Islay whisky that can make a powerful yet extremely drinkable dram and present them with age-statement and at wallet-friendly prices, well done TCoIWC. 85/100
Longrow 15 Years Old 2001 (51.9%, OB, Cage, 1st Fill Sherry Butt, 1 Bottle, 2017)(7/10/2020)-Longrow 15 Years Old 2001 Whisky Review: A touch oily and closed and quite creamy in texture. Straight forward sherry and peat but with further sampling what at first seems simple is really quite accomplished, a single cask that is on par with a married standard expression. 89/100
Longrow Red 11 Years Old Cabernet Franc (55.9%, OB, 9000 Bottles, 2018)(7/10/2020)-Longrow Red 11 Years Old Cabernet Franc Whisky Review: Sadly not heavily red wine influenced, a competent expression whose fruitiness struggles to compete with the peaty and spicy nature, much preferred the Gaja Barolo. 84/100
Longrow 7 Years Old 2000 Gaja Barolo Finish (55.8%, OB, 12120 Bottles, 2008)(7/8/2020)-Longrow 7 Years Old 2000 Gaja Barolo whisky review: A superb expression, perhaps a touch spirity/alcoholic which belies its youth but a complete absence of spice means this mixture of smoke and red fruits is an absolute winner for me. 89/100
Glenburgie 21 Years Old Black Friday 2019 Edition (53.1%, The Whisky Exchange, 1800 Bottles, 2019)(7/3/2020)-Glenburgie 21 Years Old Black Friday 2019 Edition Whisky Review: OK, better at cask strength though tinny. Good tropicality showing age in fruit but feels like quite an underactive cask and a bit of an odd choice. With water becomes sharper, more limey and spicy with cinnamon. 85/100
Loch Lomond 19 Years Old Royal Portrush (50.3%, OB, 2019)(7/1/2020)-Loch Lomond 19 Years Old Royal Portrush Whisky Review: A superb expression bursting with black and red fruits, matured to perfection. As a fan of both red wine and whisky it is always a pleasure when they come together well like this edition. 89/100
Loch Lomond The Open Special Edition 2019 (46%, OB, 2019)(7/1/2020)-Loch Lomond The Open Special Edition 2019 Whisky Review: A lovely stone fruit nature to this with plenty of peach and apricot complemented by some great oak cask influence also. 85/100
Loch Lomond Signature (40%, OB, 2020)(7/1/2020)-Loch Lomond Signature Whisky Review: A very well constructed blend, sweet and sour, more than a touch of dusty oak and plenty of sherry influence. This feels like a blended whisky designed to be taken neat. 83/100
Cambus 28 Years Old Batch 11 (47%, TBWC, 435 Bottles, 2019)(7/1/2020)-Cambus 28 Years Old Batch 11 Whisky Review: Old & woody but still quite solventy. Thankfully this carries some oily weight which adds depth. With water this is much sweeter and smoother and full of toffee and butterscotch. 86/100
Tomatin 15 Years Old 2003 Moscatel (46%, OB, 6000 Bottles, 2018)(7/1/2020)-Tomatin 15 Years Old 2003 Moscatel whisky review: Flavourful and rich, balanced sweetness and oak and some lovely bright fruits in here. Tomatin's spirit is quite delicate and this enhancement complements it well. 86/100
Kingsbarns Dream to Dram (46%, OB, 2019)(7/1/2020)-Kingsbarns Dream to Dram Whisky Review: Good texture for a new/young whisky, delightfully not over-vanillic or over-oaked, the fruit and spice is delicately balanced. 85/100
Diageo announce the launch of Prima & Ultima collection of rare malts.(6/30/2020)-DIAGEO ANNOUNCES THE LAUNCH OF PRIMA & ULTIMA: A NEW COLLECTABLE SERIES OF EXQUISITE SINGLE VINTAGE MALT WHISKIES Only 238 full sets available to purchase through a global registration from 22nd July […]
The Singleton of Dufftown 12 Years Old (40%, OB, 2020)(6/27/2020)-The Singleton of Dufftown 12 Years Old Whisky Review: Smooth and cereal rich with a good fruity sweetness. Still on of my favourite introductory whiskies, a pleasure to revisit. 82/100
Darkness 8 Years Old (47.8%, Master of Malt, 2020)(6/27/2020)-Darkness 8 Years Old Whisky Review: A little bit young and forced, needs a lot more polishing for my liking. Once it breathes much more of the more pleasant sherry influence comes out but needs time/careful watering. 82/100
Littlemill 40 Years Old 1977 Celestial Edition (OB, 46.8%, 250 bottles, 2018)(6/27/2020)-Littlemill 40 Years Old Celestial Edition Whisky Review: Definitely sherry influenced, perhaps some of the sweeter and dried fruit/nut flavours belie that cask-driven final maturation, however they do not mask that florality of Littlemill's spirit character. 92/100
Littlemill 27 Years Old 1992 Vintage (OB, 45.3%, 300 bottles, 2019)(6/27/2020)-Littlemill 1992 Vintage Whisky Review: Superb, aged and woody but still with a great sweetness and florality which is really fresh for its age. Fruity and zesty too in places, overwhelmingly maple syrup plus a wee hint of smoke and meatiness in here too. 90/100
House Greyjoy Talisker Select Reserve (45.8%, OB, 2019)(6/23/2020)-House Greyjoy Talisker Select Reserve Whisky Review: A classic Talisker, probably a little youngish but with plenty of good peppery smoke and brine, some herbality. My first impression was this was much more buttery/oily/i.e. young compared to drier aged Taliskers, with more time and contemplation I can't shake that briny green olive nature to this which I really like. 83/100
The Milk & Honey The Whisky Show London 2019 (55%, OB, Ex-Bourbon + PX Sherry Butt Finish, 100 Bottles, 2019)(6/23/2020)-The Milk & Honey The Whisky Show London 2019 Whisky Review: Very woody initially and a touch herbal, when it has breathed a little this woodiness calms down a little and reveals some pretty decent whisky, reminded me of some American or South African whiskies I have tried - similar perhaps due to the combination of climate and wood interaction during maturation? 84/100
Lagavulin and Caol Ila Feis Ile 2020 bottlings(6/22/2020)-Release details for Lagavulin and Caol Ila Feis Ile 2020 bottlings, launched on 8th June and sold out shortly thereafter. Lagavulin 20 Years Old Fèis Ìle 2020 ABV: 54% Cask: Refill & […]
Glencairn Crystal celebrate 20 years of the Glencairn Glass(6/22/2020)-Glencairn Crystal to pay tribute to 20 years of The Glencairn Glass – the world’s favourite whisky glass Family owned and award-winning Scottish crystal company Glencairn Crystal Studio is marking 20 years […]
Douglas Laing Unveils The Epicurean Cask Strength Edinburgh Edition(6/22/2020)-Douglas Laing Unveils The Epicurean Cask Strength Edinburgh Edition Independent Scotch Whisky firm, Douglas Laing & Co today unveils The Epicurean Cask Strength Edinburgh Limited Edition of only 600 bottles. Honouring Scotland’s […]
The Lakes release The Whiskymaker’s Reserve No.3 single malt whisky.(6/22/2020)-Introducing The Whiskymaker’s Reserve No.3 single malt whisky. Due for release on 15th June, the third expression in The Lakes Distillery’s Whiskymaker’s Reserve series has been unveiled as a new and aromatic […]
Grant’s Cask Editions Sherry Cask Finish (40%, OB, 2014)(6/17/2020)-Grant's Cask Editions Sherry Cask Finish Whisky Review: Ok, again the cask finish is much improved over The Family Reserve expression but I preferred the Ale cask to this sherry cask expression. 82/100
Grant’s Cask Editions Ale Cask Finish (40%, OB, 2014)(6/17/2020)-Grant's Cask Editions Ale Cask Finish Whisky Review: Smoother and a lot nicer than the Family Reserve blend, the extra time in Ale casks has added some malts, hops and filtered out any spice and spirity elements, great! 83/100
Grant’s The Family Reserve (40%, OB, 2014)(6/17/2020)-Grant's The Family Reserve Whisky Review: Interesting, a little bitter overall, quite simple on the nose but thankfully more complexity in the palate. 78/100
Glasgow 1770 Triple Distilled No.1 (46%, OB, 2020)(6/17/2020)-Glasgow 1770 Triple Distilled No.1 whisky review: An interesting expression with plenty of florality and character, very drinkable and didn't strike me as particularly young - even though I know it must be. 83/100
Glasgow 1770 Peated No.1 (46%, OB, 2019)(6/17/2020)-Glasgow 1770 Peated No.1 Whisky Review: A lovely expression with plenty of new oak character, sweet and sublime smoke. A gentle smokiness and traces of youth in the spirit which is entirely expected, I hope as this expression is matured and ages this retains its smoke. 84/100
Heaven Hill 9 Years Old Straight Corn Whiskey Batch 1 (49.5%, TBWC, 1679 Bottles, 2019)(6/13/2020)-Heaven Hill 9 Years Old Straight Corn Whiskey Batch 1 Whisky Review: Light in spirit but with a heavy cask influence, still a little corn syrupy, light fruit and sparkling pepper spices becomes a lot creamier and sweeter with a splash of water. 82/100
Springbank 15 Years Old 2002 (47.2%, OB, Cage, F Sherry HH, 1 Bottle, 2017)(6/13/2020)-Springbank 15 Years Old 2002 First fill Sherry Hogshead Whisky Review: A classic single cask expression that displays many of the qualities the official Springbank 15 year old is built on, a delight to sample this one. 87/100
Glentauchers 8 Years Old 2008 Cask 23 Batch 17 (63%, The Good Spirits Co. 2016)(6/11/2020)-The Good Spirits Co. Cask 23 batch 17 whisky review: Potent at 63% but takes water well. Plenty of malt and dried fruits in here. Drinking (as I thought) as a blende malt I found this quite complex but without identifiable flavours. 81/100
Ardmore 16 Years Old 2000 Old Particular (44.5%, Douglas Laing, Refill barrel #11168, 84 Bottles, 2016)(6/11/2020)-Ardmore 16 Years Old 2000 Old Particular Whisky Review: Another quite light dram from a refill barrel, perhaps tamed a little more and some better developed fruit flavours arising, a little spiced in places, what it gains in fruit from the 14 Year Old 2000 expression however it loses in peat/smoke influence. 83/100
The English 11 Years Old (OB, 46%, 2020)(6/8/2020)-The English 11 Years Old Whisky Review: Similar to their 'Original' expression this is more of an every day drinker kind of whisky, starting to become a little drier and spicy for my palate but still a great benchmark of The English Whisky Company's spirit. 83/100
Father’s Day gift ideas from Master of Malt(6/5/2020)-SHARE THE GIFT OF FLAVOUR THIS FATHER’S DAY Master of Malt thoughtfully curates gifting offering ahead of Father’s Day to celebrate great dads and make shared tasting experiences easy, even at a […]
Whisky Blog Rankings June 2020(6/5/2020)-Whisky Blog Rankings June 2020 Ordered by Alexa Global Rank See our complete (alphabetical) listings here Contact us via the form on that page if we don’t have your blog details listed. http://www.whiskynotes.be/ […]
Fettercairn distillery unveils new 16 Years Old(6/4/2020)-FETTERCAIRN DISTILLERY UNVEILS NEW 16 YEARS OLD New addition to the Single Malt Whisky celebrates unconventional maturation journey Fettercairn Distillery has today unveiled a new addition to its core range of single […]
BIG PEAT UNVEILS 8 YEARS OLD “A846 EDITION” FOR FEIS ILE 2020(6/4/2020)-Big Peat, cult Islay Malt Scotch Whisky brand from family-owned Douglas Laing & Co, today unveils “his” special bottling for Summer 2020: Big Peat 8 Years Old, “A846” Limited Edition. Aged 8 […]
Puffing Billy Steam Vodka (40%, OB, 2020)(5/28/2020)-Puffing Billy Steam Vodka : From the initial nose I thought this was going to remind me why I don't drink white spirits except in cocktails, long drinks etc. surprisingly this is much more palatable than many New Make Spirits, so the steam / charcoal purification has worked wonders here. If you are looking for a gently fruity white spirit to mix with this is a great start.
Mortlach 11 Years Old 2004 Old Particular (48.4%, Douglas Laing, Refill HH #10968, 381 Bottles, 2015)(5/26/2020)-Mortlach 11 Years Old 2004 Old Particular #10968 Whisky Review: A little spirity and spicy, colour and palate suggest slightly under-active refill hogshead. A combination of Mortlach's heavy spirit and sweetness from vanilla and honey kept reminding me of eggy /sulphuric custard and pancakes throughout. 80/100
Edradour 10 Years Old 2005 Straight From The Cask (59.7%, OB, Sherry Butt #49, 654 Bottles, 2015)(5/26/2020)-Edradour 10 Years Old 2005 Straight From The Cask #49 whisky review: Delicious, very drinkable at cask strength this is quite open and sweet and well balanced between fruit and spices. Some spirit character comes through on the palate so not as over-sherried as the colour might suggest. 87/100
Chivas Regal 13 Years Old Extra Oloroso Sherry Casks (40%, OB, 2020)(5/26/2020)-Chivas Regal 13 Years Old Extra Oloroso Sherry Casks whisky review: A lovely soft, easy-sipping blend with some nice and gentle Oloroso Sherry influences, a good drinker which appeals to my Sherry-leaning palate. 82/100
PORT ELLEN RELEASES 40-YEAR-OLD : PORT ELLEN’S 9 ROGUE CASKS(5/24/2020)-A NEW 40-YEAR-OLD SINGLE MALT SCOTCH WHISKY RELEASED FROM THE CELEBRATED ISLAY DISTILLERY, AHEAD OF ITS RETURN Introducing the second release in the highly collectable Port Ellen Untold Stories Series that explores the […]
The Epicurean Unveils Edition No.2 Cognac Cask Finish(5/20/2020)-The Epicurean Unveils Edition No.2 in its Wood Series Douglas Laing & Co has today launched a Cognac Finished Lowland Malt Scotch Whisky as part of The Epicurean Wood Series. Following 2019’s […]
Glasgow Distillery launches 1770 Single Malt Triple Distilled(5/20/2020)-Glasgow Distillery has today unveiled the third and final expression to complete its Signature Range with Glasgow 1770 Single Malt Triple Distilled – Release No.1. Triple Distilled Release No.1 follows the launch of […]
Teeling 24 Years Old Vintage Reserve Collection (46%, OB, 5000 Bottles, 2016)(5/20/2020)-Teeling 24 Years Old Vintage Reserve Collection whisky review: Superb, musty and woody on the nose the Sauternes finish has worked wonders here with a lovely woody and herbal honey with touches of grape, orange and pineapple, delicious. 87/100
Teeling Small Batch (46%, OB, 2019)(5/20/2020)-Teeling Small Batch Whisky Review: Creamy and well balanced a very nice blend that hasn't been over-sweetened by Rum cask finishing. 83/100
Teeling Single Grain (46%, OB, 2018)(5/20/2020)-Teeling Single Grain whisky review: Initially a little spirity on the nose but grat palate and flavour, with time/breathing mellows into a rich and sweet lemon curd, some tannin and spice but I didn't place the wine cask - I mistook it for the grainy spice from unmalted barley or rye cereals. 80/100
Three Ships 6 Years Old batch 1 (53.7%, TBWC, 1150 Bottles, 2018)(5/11/2020)-Three Ships 6 Years Old batch 1 whisky review: Great nose but far too strong on the palate, too spirity and spicy, needed plenty of water to reveal polished butterscotch and that toffee/coffee from the nose. 80/100
The English Small Batch Release Rum Cask Matured (46%, OB, Cask B2/293, 2020)(4/23/2020)-The English Small batch Release Rum Cask Matured whisky review: Quite sweet on the nose, gets a little woodier with more brown sugars on the palate. A very nice Rum cask matured expression that keeps plenty of distillery character. 84/100
The English Smokey Single Malt Whisky (43%, OB, 2020)(4/23/2020)-The English Smokey Single Malt Whisky Whisky Review: A superb smokey dram full of buttery cereal barley and that distinct fruit spirit character tempered with masses of Vanilla from Bourbon barrel maturation. The result is a reminiscent of childhood summers so hot that the tarmac melted and so did your ice-cream - but then you could pop the tar bubbles with your lolly stick! 86/100
Chauffe Coeur Reserve VSOP Calvados (43%, OB, 2019)(4/20/2020)-Chauffe Coeur Reserve VSOP Calvados Calvados Review: Deliciously tart fruit and spicy oak wood, becomes chocolatey, a great aperitif as it is light in both body and palate. 86/100
Comte Louis de Lauriston VSOP Calvados Domfrontais (42%, OB, 2019)(4/20/2020)-Comte Louis de Lauriston VSOP Calvados Domfrontais Calvados Review: Very well structured, quite slick with great texture but a little ethereal in terms of distinct flavours - a really great blend with a perfect balance of fruit and wood. 85/100
Glenury Royal 22 Years Old 1976 Connoisseurs Choice (40%, Gordon & MacPhail, 1998)(4/14/2020)-Glenury Royal 1976 Connoisseurs Choice (Bottled 1998) Whisky Review: Hard to put into perspective, perhaps a slightly disappointing dream dram. Subtle in character and maturation but then that made these G&M classics so affordable. Still two big ticks off of my list in both distillery and vintage. A reminder that these pearls (rather than gems) can be found at sensible prices in many whisky bars. 84/100
Bunnahabhain 10 Years Old 2006 10.118 Enthralling pink and peat intensity (60.6%, SMWS, 257 Bottles, 2017)(4/1/2020)-SMWS 10.118 Enthralling pink and peat intensity Whisky Review: A lovely mixture of sweet port influence and smoke. I was worried the palate at cask strength may have been a little overpowering but actually the sweet and peat aren't too much. A nice earthy/turfy influence grounds this whole whisky while gentle spices fizz in the background. A pleasant surprise, a wonderful nose sets the standard for a great dram throughout. 87/100
Bunnahabhain Stiuireadair (46.3%, OB, 2018)(4/1/2020)-Bunnahabhain Stiuireadair Whisky Review: When I originally opened this I think I found it quite youthful/spirity and a little over-spiced, however after some time in the bottle and allowed to breathe a little I have come away with a much greater appreciation of this whisky. It is in fact very well constructed with a great mix of oily, buttery caramel and rich spice, fruit and nut sherry influence. It really is a classic Bunnahabhain with that wonderful spirit character you either love (like me) or hate. 84/100
The English Original Single Malt Whisky (43%, OB, 2019)(3/31/2020)-The English Original Single Malt Whisky Whisky Review: A rather accomplished expression, perhaps a touch woody in places but balanced by that lovely fruity spirit character which has started to become tropical as well as sweet on the palate. Masses of vanilla ice-cream make this a real dessert-style whisky. Very enjoyable. 83/100
Blood Oath Pact No. 6 Launches This Spring Finished in Cognac Barrels(3/31/2020)-Blood Oath Pact No. 6 Launches This Spring Finished in Cognac Barrels Bourbon Series Continues To Release Successful Expressions In its sixth year, the Blood Oath ultra-premium bourbon series continues to see […]
Douglas Laing’s The Epicurean Supports On-Trade(3/23/2020)-DOUGLAS LAING’S THE EPICUREAN LOWLAND MALT SEEKS TO SUPPORT THE ON-TRADE COMMUNITY As the spirits trade faces mounting challenges from the impact of the COVID-19 crisis, leading Whisky specialist, Douglas Laing & […]
Whisky Blog Rankings March 2020(3/13/2020)-Whisky Blog Rankings March 2020 March 2020 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 […]
Dailuaine 29 Years Old 1983 Old Spiced Balm (46%, Wemyss Malts, Bourbon HH #4439, 311 Bottles, 2013) (7/12/2020) - Dailuaine 29 Years Old 1983 Old Spiced Balm Whisky Review: A superb old Dailuaine, quite light and bourbon matured unlike the sherry heavy OB, waxy rather than meaty. 88/100
Glenrothes 21 Years Old 1993 Kumquat Cluster (46%, Wemyss Malts, Sherry Butt #3343, 730 Bottles, 2014) (7/12/2020) - Glenrothes 21 Years Old 1993 Kumquat Cluster Whisky Review: A superb tropical fruit and cream dessert of a whisky, reminding me of some fantastic home-made cheesecakes. 91/100
Strathisla 18 Years Old 1997 (45%, Samaroli, Virgin Oak Cask #47821, 294 Bottles, 2015) (7/12/2020) - Strathisla 18 Years Old 1997 Samaroli Whisky Review: Super fruity, delicate and floral, I would never have guessed a virgin oak cask. 89/100
Tormore 23 Years Old 1995 (50.8%, The Single Cask, Sherry HH #20095A, 102 Bottles, 2019) (7/12/2020) - Tormore 23 Years Old 1995 Whisky Review: A fantastic combination of juicy tropical fruits, drying tannic leather and soft, gentle, ginger cake spice, superb. 88/100
Heaven Hill 10 Years Old 2009 (62.5%, The Single Cask, Virgin Barrel #152724, 130 Bottles, 2019) (7/12/2020) - Heaven Hill 10 Years Old 2009 Whisky Review: Closed and a little difficult at cask strength, a little water softens and opens up this one. Plenty of caramel and a hint of fruit but overall this is very palate-neutral. 76/100
The Whiskymaker’s Reserve No.3 (54%, OB, 9700 Bottles, 2020) (7/12/2020) - The Whiskymaker’s Reserve No.3 Whisky Review: A definite move in the right direction in this series, delivered at a more approachable ABV. This has a super nose but sadly it is not totally backed up on the palate. Perhaps an indication of the Lakes young spirit, given time (maturation) perhaps this inbalance will be redressed? 85/100
Aerolite Lyndsay 10 Years Old (46%, The Character of Islay Whisky Co, 2019) (7/10/2020) - Aerolite Lyndsay 10 Years Old whisky review: A fairly complex construction leave classic Islay peat and maritime influence and me guessing at distillery character, I guess the point here is to focus on some of the great characteristics of Islay whisky that can make a powerful yet extremely drinkable dram and present them with age-statement and at wallet-friendly prices, well done TCoIWC. 85/100
Longrow 15 Years Old 2001 (51.9%, OB, Cage, 1st Fill Sherry Butt, 1 Bottle, 2017) (7/10/2020) - Longrow 15 Years Old 2001 Whisky Review: A touch oily and closed and quite creamy in texture. Straight forward sherry and peat but with further sampling what at first seems simple is really quite accomplished, a single cask that is on par with a married standard expression. 89/100
Longrow 12 Years Old 2002 Sherry Cask (53.1%, Cadenhead, 288 Bottles, 2015) (7/10/2020) - Longrow 12 Years Old 2002 Sherry Cask Whisky Review: A hint of rubber at first but this quickly dissipates leaving a sweet and oily combination of sherry and peat smoke which is really quite lovely. 88/100
Longrow Red 11 Years Old Cabernet Franc (55.9%, OB, 9000 Bottles, 2018) (7/10/2020) - Longrow Red 11 Years Old Cabernet Franc Whisky Review: Sadly not heavily red wine influenced, a competent expression whose fruitiness struggles to compete with the peaty and spicy nature, much preferred the Gaja Barolo. 84/100
Longrow 7 Years Old 2000 Gaja Barolo Finish (55.8%, OB, 12120 Bottles, 2008) (7/8/2020) - Longrow 7 Years Old 2000 Gaja Barolo whisky review: A superb expression, perhaps a touch spirity/alcoholic which belies its youth but a complete absence of spice means this mixture of smoke and red fruits is an absolute winner for me. 89/100
Foursquare Hereditas 14 Years Old (56%, The Whisky Exchange, 2520 Bottles, 2019) (7/3/2020) - Foursquare Hereditas 14 Years Old Rum Review: A sweet easy drinking rum that takes water well. 85/100
Glenburgie 21 Years Old Black Friday 2019 Edition (53.1%, The Whisky Exchange, 1800 Bottles, 2019) (7/3/2020) - Glenburgie 21 Years Old Black Friday 2019 Edition Whisky Review: OK, better at cask strength though tinny. Good tropicality showing age in fruit but feels like quite an underactive cask and a bit of an odd choice. With water becomes sharper, more limey and spicy with cinnamon. 85/100
Linkwood 18 Years Old 1997 Old Malt Cask (50%, Hunter Laing, HH #11565, 257 Bottles, 2015) (7/3/2020) - Linkwood 18 Years Old 1997 Old Malt Cask Whisky Review: Still fairly basic with much spirit lead flavour akin to the 10 year old, some deeper flavours in here thanks to longer maturation but I'm still not loving this one. 82/100
Linkwood 10 Years Old Batch 7 (48.2%, TBWC, 1634 Bottles, 2019 ) (7/3/2020) - Linkwood 10 Years Old Batch 7 Whisky Review: Very lemony with an odd salinity and minerality. Under-active casks? Sour spicy and spirity, not for me. 77/100
Loch Lomond 11 Years Old 2006 Limited Edition Single Cask (53.1%, OB, Cask #40, 282 Bottles, 2017) (7/1/2020) - Loch Lomond 2006 Limited Edition Single Cask #40 Whisky Review: A superb fruity, earthy and smoky single cask expression from Loch Lomond. 89/100
Loch Lomond 13 Years Old 2005 The Single Cask (57.5%, Claxton’s, Cask #1962413, 286 Bottles, 2018) (7/1/2020) - Loch Lomond 13 Years Old 2005 The Single Cask Whisky Review: lovely, a really nice thick and greasy fried banana and smoke element in here as well as plenty of malty cereal and fruity spirit. 87/100
Loch Lomond 19 Years Old Royal Portrush (50.3%, OB, 2019) (7/1/2020) - Loch Lomond 19 Years Old Royal Portrush Whisky Review: A superb expression bursting with black and red fruits, matured to perfection. As a fan of both red wine and whisky it is always a pleasure when they come together well like this edition. 89/100
Loch Lomond The Open Special Edition 2019 (46%, OB, 2019) (7/1/2020) - Loch Lomond The Open Special Edition 2019 Whisky Review: A lovely stone fruit nature to this with plenty of peach and apricot complemented by some great oak cask influence also. 85/100
Loch Lomond Signature (40%, OB, 2020) (7/1/2020) - Loch Lomond Signature Whisky Review: A very well constructed blend, sweet and sour, more than a touch of dusty oak and plenty of sherry influence. This feels like a blended whisky designed to be taken neat. 83/100
Cambus 28 Years Old Batch 11 (47%, TBWC, 435 Bottles, 2019) (7/1/2020) - Cambus 28 Years Old Batch 11 Whisky Review: Old & woody but still quite solventy. Thankfully this carries some oily weight which adds depth. With water this is much sweeter and smoother and full of toffee and butterscotch. 86/100
Tomatin 15 Years Old 2003 Moscatel (46%, OB, 6000 Bottles, 2018) (7/1/2020) - Tomatin 15 Years Old 2003 Moscatel whisky review: Flavourful and rich, balanced sweetness and oak and some lovely bright fruits in here. Tomatin's spirit is quite delicate and this enhancement complements it well. 86/100
Kingsbarns Dream to Dram (46%, OB, 2019) (7/1/2020) - Kingsbarns Dream to Dram Whisky Review: Good texture for a new/young whisky, delightfully not over-vanillic or over-oaked, the fruit and spice is delicately balanced. 85/100
Diageo announce the launch of Prima & Ultima collection of rare malts. (6/30/2020) - DIAGEO ANNOUNCES THE LAUNCH OF PRIMA & ULTIMA: A NEW COLLECTABLE SERIES OF EXQUISITE SINGLE VINTAGE MALT WHISKIES Only 238 full sets available to purchase through a global registration from 22nd July […]
William Grant & Sons and Tullamore D.E.W celebrate 10 years together with the Phoenix Anniversary Blend (6/30/2020) - William Grant & Sons And Tullamore D.E.W. Celebrate A Decade Of Success Together The brand releases a limited edition bottle from its archives to celebrate the important milestone This month, Global drinks […]
Glen Moray 13 Years Old 2006 Madeira Cask Project (46.3%, OB, 1468 Bottles, 2020) (6/27/2020) - Glen Moray 2006 Madeira Cask Project Whisky Review: Deliciously rich but not over-sweet, an unsual fruity and malty combination with a creamy delivery. 87/100
The Singleton of Dufftown 12 Years Old (40%, OB, 2020) (6/27/2020) - The Singleton of Dufftown 12 Years Old Whisky Review: Smooth and cereal rich with a good fruity sweetness. Still on of my favourite introductory whiskies, a pleasure to revisit. 82/100
Darkness 8 Years Old (47.8%, Master of Malt, 2020) (6/27/2020) - Darkness 8 Years Old Whisky Review: A little bit young and forced, needs a lot more polishing for my liking. Once it breathes much more of the more pleasant sherry influence comes out but needs time/careful watering. 82/100
Littlemill 40 Years Old 1977 Celestial Edition (OB, 46.8%, 250 bottles, 2018) (6/27/2020) - Littlemill 40 Years Old Celestial Edition Whisky Review: Definitely sherry influenced, perhaps some of the sweeter and dried fruit/nut flavours belie that cask-driven final maturation, however they do not mask that florality of Littlemill's spirit character. 92/100
Littlemill 27 Years Old 1992 Vintage (OB, 45.3%, 300 bottles, 2019) (6/27/2020) - Littlemill 1992 Vintage Whisky Review: Superb, aged and woody but still with a great sweetness and florality which is really fresh for its age. Fruity and zesty too in places, overwhelmingly maple syrup plus a wee hint of smoke and meatiness in here too. 90/100
House Greyjoy Talisker Select Reserve (45.8%, OB, 2019) (6/23/2020) - House Greyjoy Talisker Select Reserve Whisky Review: A classic Talisker, probably a little youngish but with plenty of good peppery smoke and brine, some herbality. My first impression was this was much more buttery/oily/i.e. young compared to drier aged Taliskers, with more time and contemplation I can't shake that briny green olive nature to this which I really like. 83/100
The Milk & Honey The Whisky Show London 2019 (55%, OB, Ex-Bourbon + PX Sherry Butt Finish, 100 Bottles, 2019) (6/23/2020) - The Milk & Honey The Whisky Show London 2019 Whisky Review: Very woody initially and a touch herbal, when it has breathed a little this woodiness calms down a little and reveals some pretty decent whisky, reminded me of some American or South African whiskies I have tried - similar perhaps due to the combination of climate and wood interaction during maturation? 84/100
Lagavulin and Caol Ila Feis Ile 2020 bottlings (6/22/2020) - Release details for Lagavulin and Caol Ila Feis Ile 2020 bottlings, launched on 8th June and sold out shortly thereafter. Lagavulin 20 Years Old Fèis Ìle 2020 ABV: 54% Cask: Refill & […]
Glencairn Crystal celebrate 20 years of the Glencairn Glass (6/22/2020) - Glencairn Crystal to pay tribute to 20 years of The Glencairn Glass – the world’s favourite whisky glass Family owned and award-winning Scottish crystal company Glencairn Crystal Studio is marking 20 years […]
Douglas Laing Unveils The Epicurean Cask Strength Edinburgh Edition (6/22/2020) - Douglas Laing Unveils The Epicurean Cask Strength Edinburgh Edition Independent Scotch Whisky firm, Douglas Laing & Co today unveils The Epicurean Cask Strength Edinburgh Limited Edition of only 600 bottles. Honouring Scotland’s […]
The Lakes release The Whiskymaker’s Reserve No.3 single malt whisky. (6/22/2020) - Introducing The Whiskymaker’s Reserve No.3 single malt whisky. Due for release on 15th June, the third expression in The Lakes Distillery’s Whiskymaker’s Reserve series has been unveiled as a new and aromatic […]
Douglas Laing Unveils Old Particular Limited Edition Collection: The Spiritualist Series (6/22/2020) - Douglas Laing Unveils Old Particular Limited Edition Collection: The Spiritualist Series Leading independent bottler, Douglas Laing & Co, today announces a limited edition collection within its renowned Old Particular Single Cask Scotch […]
Scapa 12 Years Old 2002 17.39 Relax, take it easy (56.1%, SMWS, Refill Bourbon Barrel, 243 Bottles, 2015) (6/17/2020) - SMWS 17.39 Relax, take it easy Whisky Review: A pleasure to taste and a real treat to sample with the ice cream also made from it. Quite delicate and light and a touch floral. Presented that great taste combination of rose and vanilla white chocolate. 87/100
Glenburgie 27 Years Old 1985 71.38 A cheese-board in a library (57%, SMWS, Refill Bourbon HH, 210 Bottles, 2014) (6/17/2020) - SMWS 71.38 A cheese-board in a library Whisky Review: Woody and closed but with plenty of aged woody sugars, fruit comes out eventually. Very nice waxiness in this pointing towards the distilleries blending potential perhaps? 90/100
Big Peat Christmas 2013 A Real Cracker (54.9%, Douglas Laing, 14400 bottles, 2013) (6/17/2020) - Big Peat Christmas 2013 A Real Cracker Whisky Review: Maybe not as pleasing as (the previously sampled 2014 edition) but still a beast of a dram that politely punches your face in. 85/100
Grant’s Cask Editions Sherry Cask Finish (40%, OB, 2014) (6/17/2020) - Grant's Cask Editions Sherry Cask Finish Whisky Review: Ok, again the cask finish is much improved over The Family Reserve expression but I preferred the Ale cask to this sherry cask expression. 82/100
Grant’s Cask Editions Ale Cask Finish (40%, OB, 2014) (6/17/2020) - Grant's Cask Editions Ale Cask Finish Whisky Review: Smoother and a lot nicer than the Family Reserve blend, the extra time in Ale casks has added some malts, hops and filtered out any spice and spirity elements, great! 83/100
Grant’s The Family Reserve (40%, OB, 2014) (6/17/2020) - Grant's The Family Reserve Whisky Review: Interesting, a little bitter overall, quite simple on the nose but thankfully more complexity in the palate. 78/100
Glasgow 1770 Triple Distilled No.1 (46%, OB, 2020) (6/17/2020) - Glasgow 1770 Triple Distilled No.1 whisky review: An interesting expression with plenty of florality and character, very drinkable and didn't strike me as particularly young - even though I know it must be. 83/100
Glasgow 1770 Peated No.1 (46%, OB, 2019) (6/17/2020) - Glasgow 1770 Peated No.1 Whisky Review: A lovely expression with plenty of new oak character, sweet and sublime smoke. A gentle smokiness and traces of youth in the spirit which is entirely expected, I hope as this expression is matured and ages this retains its smoke. 84/100
Inchmurrin 10 Years Old 2008 Heathrow Exclusive (57.1%, OB, Cask #79, 278 Bottles, 2018) (6/15/2020) - Inchmurrin 10 Years Old 2008 Heathrow Exclusive whisky review: Good nose but a little light on the palate/body for me and quite spicy, made palatable by accompanying sweetness. 80/100
Inchmurrin 15 Years Old 1996 Signatory Vintage (43%, Signatory, Refill Butts #24+25, 1409 Bottles, 2012) (6/15/2020) - Inchmurrin 15 Years Old 1996 Signatory Vintage Cask 24+25 whisky review: Very nice, not too challenging but very little peat influence I could detect. 83/100
Heaven Hill 9 Years Old Straight Corn Whiskey Batch 1 (49.5%, TBWC, 1679 Bottles, 2019) (6/13/2020) - Heaven Hill 9 Years Old Straight Corn Whiskey Batch 1 Whisky Review: Light in spirit but with a heavy cask influence, still a little corn syrupy, light fruit and sparkling pepper spices becomes a lot creamier and sweeter with a splash of water. 82/100
Glenburgie 16 Years Old 1995 Old Malt Cask (50%, Douglas Laing, Refill HH #8005, 304 Bottles, 2012) (6/13/2020) - Glenburgie 16 Years Old 1995 Old Malt Cask whisky review: Refreshing and zesty, full of lemon jelly, tart and clarified fruit juices. 84/100
Aultmore 16 Years old 1997 Berrys’ (46%, Berry Bros & Rudd, Cask #3584, 2013) (6/13/2020) - Aultmore 16 Years old 1997 Berrys' Whisky Review: Wow, melon filled goodness and unmistakable pear drops, super fruity. 87/100
Bruichladdich 21 Years old 1992 Dimensions (49.7%, Duncan Taylor, Cask #3987, 214 Bottles, 2014) (6/13/2020) - Bruichladdich 21 Years old 1992 Dimensions whisky review: An unusually quiet expression, very restrained, a touch minty which worries me of a slightly underactive 3rd fill+ cask perhaps? 83/100
Glentauchers 27 Years Old 1991 Connoisseurs Choice (56.8%, Gordon & MacPhail, 1st Fill Sherry Butt #6943, 473 Bottles, 2018) (6/13/2020) - Glentauchers 27 Years Old 1991 Connoisseurs Choice Whisky Review: Full of dark smoke and wood, not too fruity and a little mineralic/flinty make for a rather unusual but enjoyable expression. 86/100
Springbank 15 Years Old 2002 (47.2%, OB, Cage, F Sherry HH, 1 Bottle, 2017) (6/13/2020) - Springbank 15 Years Old 2002 First fill Sherry Hogshead Whisky Review: A classic single cask expression that displays many of the qualities the official Springbank 15 year old is built on, a delight to sample this one. 87/100
Dufftown 8 Years Old 2009 Bicentenary Drammie (46%, Morrison and MacKay, HH, 410 Bottles, 2017) (6/11/2020) - Dufftown 8 Years Old 2009 Bicentenary Drammie Whisky Review: Pleasant and solid, cloyingly rich nose but a more reserved palate full of cereal notes a touch of zest and spice keep it interesting. 82/100
New Town Blends – The Surgeons Ball (46%, Edinburgh Whisky, 2016) (6/11/2020) - New Town Blends - The Surgeons Ball whisky review: A bit of a Jekyll & Hyde (apt?) dram, quite mobile on the palate but generally pleasing. Doesn't hide its youth very well. 77/100
Ardmore 16 Years Old 2000 Old Particular (44.5%, Douglas Laing, Refill barrel #11168, 84 Bottles, 2016) (6/11/2020) - Ardmore 16 Years Old 2000 Old Particular Whisky Review: Another quite light dram from a refill barrel, perhaps tamed a little more and some better developed fruit flavours arising, a little spiced in places, what it gains in fruit from the 14 Year Old 2000 expression however it loses in peat/smoke influence. 83/100
Ardmore 14 Years Old 2000 Old Particular (48.4%, Douglas Laing, Refill barrel #10593, 195 Bottles, 2014) (6/11/2020) - Ardmore 14 Years Old 2000 Old Particular whisky review: Quite gentle and reserved with a nice dry minerality, overall lemon/vanilla and highland peat predominate, educational. 83/100
anCnoc 16 Years Old 125th Anniversary Edition (56.3%, OB, 3000 bottles, 2019) (6/10/2020) - anCnoc 16 Years Old 125th Anniversary Edition Whisky Review: A little underwhelming, spicy with plenty of vanilla on the nose but doesn't really translate into the palate. 80/100
FEW Bourbon Whiskey Batch#1 (48.4%, That Boutique-Y Whisky Company, 67 Bottles, 2014) (6/9/2020) - FEW Bourbon Whiskey Batch#1 Whisky Review: Woody, suggesting perhaps it is a little older than their standard fare, but still quite spirity and feisty on the palate also. 76/100
The English 11 Years Old (OB, 46%, 2020) (6/8/2020) - The English 11 Years Old Whisky Review: Similar to their 'Original' expression this is more of an every day drinker kind of whisky, starting to become a little drier and spicy for my palate but still a great benchmark of The English Whisky Company's spirit. 83/100
SCOTLAND’S LEADING WILDLIFE FILMMAKER JOINS GLENGLASSAUGH FOR ‘COAST TO CASK’ EVENT (6/5/2020) - Next Wednesday 10 June RESCHEDULED TO 28TH JUNE, the Global Brand Ambassador for luscious coastal malt Glenglassaugh will join forces with one of Scotland’s leading wildlife filmmakers in an Instagram Live event […]
Father’s Day gift ideas from Master of Malt (6/5/2020) - SHARE THE GIFT OF FLAVOUR THIS FATHER’S DAY Master of Malt thoughtfully curates gifting offering ahead of Father’s Day to celebrate great dads and make shared tasting experiences easy, even at a […]
Whisky Blog Rankings June 2020 (6/5/2020) - Whisky Blog Rankings June 2020 Ordered by Alexa Global Rank See our complete (alphabetical) listings here Contact us via the form on that page if we don’t have your blog details listed. http://www.whiskynotes.be/ […]
Glasgow Distillery Commemorates 1725 Malt Tax Uprising With New Blended Malt Whisky (6/4/2020) - Glasgow Distillery has announced the launch of Malt Riot Blended Malt Scotch Whisky. Malt Riot is a selected blend of handpicked single malts from across Scotland, with the distillery’s Glasgow 1770 Single […]
Fettercairn distillery unveils new 16 Years Old (6/4/2020) - FETTERCAIRN DISTILLERY UNVEILS NEW 16 YEARS OLD New addition to the Single Malt Whisky celebrates unconventional maturation journey Fettercairn Distillery has today unveiled a new addition to its core range of single […]
BIG PEAT UNVEILS 8 YEARS OLD “A846 EDITION” FOR FEIS ILE 2020 (6/4/2020) - Big Peat, cult Islay Malt Scotch Whisky brand from family-owned Douglas Laing & Co, today unveils “his” special bottling for Summer 2020: Big Peat 8 Years Old, “A846” Limited Edition. Aged 8 […]
Glen Moray releases ‘hidden treasure’ Madeira Cask expression for Curiosity Range (6/4/2020) - Glen Moray has unveiled the latest addition to its Curiosity Range of experimental limited editions: the Glen Moray Madeira Cask Project. A single malt Scotch whisky fully matured in ex-sweet Madeira hogsheads […]
Puffing Billy Steam Vodka (40%, OB, 2020) (5/28/2020) - Puffing Billy Steam Vodka : From the initial nose I thought this was going to remind me why I don't drink white spirits except in cocktails, long drinks etc. surprisingly this is much more palatable than many New Make Spirits, so the steam / charcoal purification has worked wonders here. If you are looking for a gently fruity white spirit to mix with this is a great start.
Mortlach 31 Years Old 1987 Connoisseurs Choice (54%,Gordon & MacPhail, Refill Sherry HH #425, 200 Bottles, 2018) (5/26/2020) - Mortlach 31 Years Old 1987 Connoisseurs Choice whisky review: A superbly aged and sherried Mortlach. Has that slightly smoky and fireworks/struck match quality that belies the age and production process of this malt. Overtly sherried but not overly woody, more chewy and earthy along with that smoke. Superb. 90/100
Mortlach 11 Years Old 2004 Old Particular (48.4%, Douglas Laing, Refill HH #10968, 381 Bottles, 2015) (5/26/2020) - Mortlach 11 Years Old 2004 Old Particular #10968 Whisky Review: A little spirity and spicy, colour and palate suggest slightly under-active refill hogshead. A combination of Mortlach's heavy spirit and sweetness from vanilla and honey kept reminding me of eggy /sulphuric custard and pancakes throughout. 80/100
Edradour 10 Years Old 2005 Straight From The Cask (59.7%, OB, Sherry Butt #49, 654 Bottles, 2015) (5/26/2020) - Edradour 10 Years Old 2005 Straight From The Cask #49 whisky review: Delicious, very drinkable at cask strength this is quite open and sweet and well balanced between fruit and spices. Some spirit character comes through on the palate so not as over-sherried as the colour might suggest. 87/100
Edradour 10 Years Old 2005 The Un-Chillfiltered Collection (46%, Signatory, Sherry Cask #74, 323 Bottles 2016) (5/26/2020) - Edradour 10 Years Old 2005 The Un-Chillfiltered Collection Sherry Cask #74 whisky review: Great nose with a heavy sherry influence but much more balanced on the palate, finishes with a lovely mouth-puckering dried fruits. 85/100
Chivas Regal 13 Years Old Extra Oloroso Sherry Casks (40%, OB, 2020) (5/26/2020) - Chivas Regal 13 Years Old Extra Oloroso Sherry Casks whisky review: A lovely soft, easy-sipping blend with some nice and gentle Oloroso Sherry influences, a good drinker which appeals to my Sherry-leaning palate. 82/100
Tamdhu release limited edition single cask whisky, hand-selected by Iain Whitecross (5/20/2020) - Tamdhu Single Malt Scotch Whisky has announced the release of the limited-edition Iain Whitecross Single Cask Vintage 2003 expression, specially selected for bottling by its Assistant Distillery Manager, Iain Whitecross. Iain has […]
The Epicurean Unveils Edition No.2 Cognac Cask Finish (5/20/2020) - The Epicurean Unveils Edition No.2 in its Wood Series Douglas Laing & Co has today launched a Cognac Finished Lowland Malt Scotch Whisky as part of The Epicurean Wood Series. Following 2019’s […]
Glasgow Distillery launches 1770 Single Malt Triple Distilled (5/20/2020) - Glasgow Distillery has today unveiled the third and final expression to complete its Signature Range with Glasgow 1770 Single Malt Triple Distilled – Release No.1. Triple Distilled Release No.1 follows the launch of […]
Teeling 24 Years Old Vintage Reserve Collection (46%, OB, 5000 Bottles, 2016) (5/20/2020) - Teeling 24 Years Old Vintage Reserve Collection whisky review: Superb, musty and woody on the nose the Sauternes finish has worked wonders here with a lovely woody and herbal honey with touches of grape, orange and pineapple, delicious. 87/100
Teeling Brabazon Bottling Series 1 (49.5%, OB, 12500 Bottles, 2017) (5/20/2020) - Teeling Brabazon Bottling Series 1 whisky review: Great balanced sherry dram, not overtly sherried - I'm not sure I'd call this a monster? 
Teeling Small Batch (46%, OB, 2019) (5/20/2020) - Teeling Small Batch Whisky Review: Creamy and well balanced a very nice blend that hasn't been over-sweetened by Rum cask finishing. 83/100
Teeling Single Grain (46%, OB, 2018) (5/20/2020) - Teeling Single Grain whisky review: Initially a little spirity on the nose but grat palate and flavour, with time/breathing mellows into a rich and sweet lemon curd, some tannin and spice but I didn't place the wine cask - I mistook it for the grainy spice from unmalted barley or rye cereals. 80/100
Ledaig 8 Years Old 2008 The Single Cask (52.8%, Claxton’s, Refill Sherry Butt, 645 Bottles, 2016) (5/11/2020) - Ledaig 8 Years Old 2008 The Single Cask Whisky Review ABV: 52.8% Age: 8 years Old Bottling: Claxton’s, The Single Cask Category: Island single malt scotch whisky Cost: £sold out Origin: Tobermory […]
Heaven Hill 9 Years Old American Whiskey Batch 1 (48.4%, TBWC, 1177 Bottles, 2018) (5/11/2020) - Heaven Hill 9 Years Old American Whiskey whisky review: Too spicy initially on the palate, a little too oily/buttery and really not sweet enough for my liking. 75/100
Three Ships 6 Years Old batch 1 (53.7%, TBWC, 1150 Bottles, 2018) (5/11/2020) - Three Ships 6 Years Old batch 1 whisky review: Great nose but far too strong on the palate, too spirity and spicy, needed plenty of water to reveal polished butterscotch and that toffee/coffee from the nose. 80/100
The English Small Batch Release Rum Cask Matured (46%, OB, Cask B2/293, 2020) (4/23/2020) - The English Small batch Release Rum Cask Matured whisky review: Quite sweet on the nose, gets a little woodier with more brown sugars on the palate. A very nice Rum cask matured expression that keeps plenty of distillery character. 84/100
The English Smokey Single Malt Whisky (43%, OB, 2020) (4/23/2020) - The English Smokey Single Malt Whisky Whisky Review: A superb smokey dram full of buttery cereal barley and that distinct fruit spirit character tempered with masses of Vanilla from Bourbon barrel maturation. The result is a reminiscent of childhood summers so hot that the tarmac melted and so did your ice-cream - but then you could pop the tar bubbles with your lolly stick! 86/100
Chauffe Coeur Reserve VSOP Calvados (43%, OB, 2019) (4/20/2020) - Chauffe Coeur Reserve VSOP Calvados Calvados Review: Deliciously tart fruit and spicy oak wood, becomes chocolatey, a great aperitif as it is light in both body and palate. 86/100
Comte Louis de Lauriston VSOP Calvados Domfrontais (42%, OB, 2019) (4/20/2020) - Comte Louis de Lauriston VSOP Calvados Domfrontais Calvados Review: Very well structured, quite slick with great texture but a little ethereal in terms of distinct flavours - a really great blend with a perfect balance of fruit and wood. 85/100
Glenury Royal 22 Years Old 1976 Connoisseurs Choice (40%, Gordon & MacPhail, 1998) (4/14/2020) - Glenury Royal 1976 Connoisseurs Choice (Bottled 1998) Whisky Review: Hard to put into perspective, perhaps a slightly disappointing dream dram. Subtle in character and maturation but then that made these G&M classics so affordable. Still two big ticks off of my list in both distillery and vintage. A reminder that these pearls (rather than gems) can be found at sensible prices in many whisky bars. 84/100
The Scalasaig Island Hopper Maiden Voyage (43%, Colonsay Beverages Ltd, 3000 bottles, 2020) (4/2/2020) - The Scalasaig Island Hopper Maiden Voyage whisky review: A well constructed blend I'm assuming from all island Malts? Good balance of peat & sherry - not too sweet almost classical 'Highland' style in fact. Well done 83/100
Bunnahabhain 10 Years Old 2006 10.118 Enthralling pink and peat intensity (60.6%, SMWS, 257 Bottles, 2017) (4/1/2020) - SMWS 10.118 Enthralling pink and peat intensity Whisky Review: A lovely mixture of sweet port influence and smoke. I was worried the palate at cask strength may have been a little overpowering but actually the sweet and peat aren't too much. A nice earthy/turfy influence grounds this whole whisky while gentle spices fizz in the background. A pleasant surprise, a wonderful nose sets the standard for a great dram throughout. 87/100
Bunnahabhain Stiuireadair (46.3%, OB, 2018) (4/1/2020) - Bunnahabhain Stiuireadair Whisky Review: When I originally opened this I think I found it quite youthful/spirity and a little over-spiced, however after some time in the bottle and allowed to breathe a little I have come away with a much greater appreciation of this whisky. It is in fact very well constructed with a great mix of oily, buttery caramel and rich spice, fruit and nut sherry influence. It really is a classic Bunnahabhain with that wonderful spirit character you either love (like me) or hate. 84/100
The English Original Single Malt Whisky (43%, OB, 2019) (3/31/2020) - The English Original Single Malt Whisky Whisky Review: A rather accomplished expression, perhaps a touch woody in places but balanced by that lovely fruity spirit character which has started to become tropical as well as sweet on the palate. Masses of vanilla ice-cream make this a real dessert-style whisky. Very enjoyable. 83/100
Ardbeg launches Wee Beastie a new permanently available 5 Year Old expression (3/31/2020) - ARDBEG WEE BEASTIE – THE DISTILLERY’S LATEST SMOKY WHISKY IS WREAKING FLAVOUR IN ITS PATH From April of this year, whisky lovers around the world will get the chance to experience the […]
Blood Oath Pact No. 6 Launches This Spring Finished in Cognac Barrels (3/31/2020) - Blood Oath Pact No. 6 Launches This Spring Finished in Cognac Barrels Bourbon Series Continues To Release Successful Expressions In its sixth year, the Blood Oath ultra-premium bourbon series continues to see […]
Diageo pledges more than 8 million bottles of sanitiser for frontline healthcare workers. (3/23/2020) - DIAGEO PLEDGES MORE THAN EIGHT MILLION BOTTLES OF SANITISER FOR FRONTLINE HEALTHCARE WORKERS World’s largest distiller in unprecedented global response in the UK, Ireland, Italy, the USA, Brazil, Kenya, India and Australia […]
Douglas Laing’s The Epicurean Supports On-Trade (3/23/2020) - DOUGLAS LAING’S THE EPICUREAN LOWLAND MALT SEEKS TO SUPPORT THE ON-TRADE COMMUNITY As the spirits trade faces mounting challenges from the impact of the COVID-19 crisis, leading Whisky specialist, Douglas Laing & […]
Whisky Blog Rankings March 2020 (3/13/2020) - Whisky Blog Rankings March 2020 March 2020 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 […]
