Single Malt Scotch Whisky

• Region: Islay, Scotland
• Distillery: Laphroaig
• Age: 10 Years
• ABV: 48%
• Size: 700 ml

This unique expression from Laphroaig marries the classic 10 Year Old whisky matured in ex-Bourbon barrels with a finishing period in ex-Oloroso Sherry casks. The result is a full-bodied character that showcases a delightful balance of sweet, aromatic flavors.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: A captivating blend of sweet Manuka honey, maple syrup, and warm spices, underpinned by Laphroaig's signature peat smoke and a hint of grilled bacon.
• Palate: Rich and complex, revealing layers of dried fruits, cloves, and a touch of dark chocolate, harmonized with the distinctive smokiness that defines Laphroaig.
• Finish: A long and warming finish that lingers with notes of sweet oak, spices, and a gentle smoke, leaving a memorable impression.

• Region: Speyside, Scotland
• Distillery: Aberlour Distillery
• Age: 16 Years
• ABV: 43%
• Size: 700ml

Aberlour 16 Highland Double Cask is a distinguished single malt that exemplifies the rich and fruity character for which Aberlour is renowned. This expression is meticulously aged for 16 years in a combination of American oak and Oloroso sherry casks, creating a complex and well-rounded whisky. Its robust flavour profile reflects the deep heritage of the distillery, making it a favorite among whisky enthusiasts.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: Inviting aromas of ripe plums, dark cherries, and toasted oak, interwoven with notes of spice and vanilla.
• Palate: Rich and velvety, with flavors of dried fruits, toffee, and dark chocolate, complemented by a subtle hint of cinnamon and nutmeg.
• Finish: Long and warming, featuring lingering notes of sweet fruit, spice, and a touch of oak.

• Region: Islay, Scotland
• Distillery: Laphroaig
• Age: 10 Years
• ABV: 56.5% (Cask Strength)
• Size: 700 ml

The cask strength version of the ever-popular Laphroaig 10, this Batch #015 bottling was released in 2021. It showcases the distillery's signature characteristics with intensified flavors of peat smoke, heather, and sea salt, providing a powerful experience for whisky lovers.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: Bold and intense, featuring rich peat smoke, hints of medicinal notes, heather flowers, and a briny ocean breeze.
• Palate: Full-bodied with a vibrant explosion of peat smoke and flavors of honey, caramel, and a touch of citrus, balanced by sea salt and earthy undertones.
• Finish: Long and warming, with a lingering smokiness complemented by a hint of sweetness and maritime notes.

• Region: Wick, Highlands (Scotland)
• Distillery: Old Pulteney
• Age: 12 Years
• ABV: 40%
• Size: 700 ml

This rare bottling of Old Pulteney 12 Years Old hails from the 1990s, showcasing the distillery's craftsmanship and dedication to quality. Matured in ex-bourbon casks for a full 12 years, this single malt captures the essence of its coastal heritage. It earned a prestigious Double Gold award at the 2006 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, a testament to its excellence.

Originally launched in 1997, the 12-Year-Old expression formed the core range during the Inver House era, with the labeling and design being rebranded in 2012.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: Fresh and aromatic with notes of brine, citrus, and subtle vanilla, accompanied by hints of honey and spice.
• Palate: Smooth and well-rounded, revealing flavors of dried fruits, caramel, and light oak, with a delicate sweetness that lingers on the tongue.
• Finish: A long and satisfying finish with lingering notes of malt, a gentle maritime character, and a touch of warmth.

• Region: Highlands (Scotland)
• Distillery: Ardmore
• Age: 9 Years
• ABV: 56.7% (Natural Cask Strength)
• Size: 700 ml

Tamashii (魂) means soul or spirit in Japanese, and this exclusive bottling was released by MIZUNARA to celebrate its 4th anniversary. Aged for 9 years in a refill bourbon barrel, this Ardmore single cask whisky is a limited edition of only 251 bottles worldwide, with a label designed by Japanese artist Kenro Shinchi.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: A delicate balance of subtle peat smoke, charcoal ash, and earthy notes, intertwined with sweet vanilla, honey, citrus, and fresh tropical fruits like banana.
• Palate: The initial sweetness of vanilla gives way to a briny saltiness, followed by evolving layers of peppery spices, cloves, and hints of dark chocolate.
• Finish: Long and complex, with the rich combination of smoke, spices, and sweetness lingering on the palate.

Review:

WhiskyFun rated this bottling 85 points (SGP 564), with the extract stating:
"Mouth (neat): It’s really good, I’d almost call this ‘good thin peat’. Limoncello, oysters, ashes, riesling, mercurochrome... With water: same, while the body got bigger rather than thinner once water’s been added. Comments: Very good for sure, just rather ‘hesitating’."

This special Ardmore release offers an intriguing mix of smoke, sweetness, and spice, making it a standout addition for collectors and connoisseurs alike.

• Region: Speyside, Scotland
• Distillery: Aberlour Distillery
• Age: 15 Years
• ABV: 43%
• Size: 700ml

Aberlour 15 Cuvée Marie d’Ecosse is a remarkable single malt that showcases the rich heritage of the Aberlour Distillery. Crafted with a blend of traditional and modern techniques, this whisky is matured in a combination of ex-bourbon and sherry casks, resulting in a harmonious balance of flavors. The Cuvée Marie d’Ecosse edition pays homage to the historical ties between Scotland and France, delivering a sophisticated and luxurious experience.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: Enticing aromas of ripe cherries, dark chocolate, and warm spices, complemented by hints of honey and vanilla.
• Palate: Rich and full-bodied, featuring flavors of dried fruits, caramel, and a gentle spice that evolves into notes of toasted oak and a touch of cinnamon.
• Finish: Long and smooth, with a lingering sweetness of dark chocolate and subtle spice, leaving a warm and satisfying impression.

• Region: Campbeltown, Scotland
• Distillery: Glengyle
• Age: NAS
• ABV: 60.9%
• Size: 700 ml

Released under Kilkerran's "Peat in Progress" bottling series, this Heavily Peated Batch 2 is a unique vatting of 55% Ex-Bourbon and 45% Ex-Sherry matured whiskies from the Glengyle Distillery. Bottled at an impressive ABV of 60.9%, this expression is a limited edition that highlights the distillery’s journey as it awaits its peated stock to reach full maturation.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: Toasted malt, smoked bacon, earthy notes, and a hint of fresh citrus
• Palate: Cooked apples, herbs, peppery smoke, and spices, complemented by subtle notes of ginger
• Finish: Long and warming, with lingering sweet peat and a touch of spice that persists on the palate

Rating: 85+ based on over 230 votes on Whiskybase

• Region: Campbeltown, Scotland
• Distillery: Glengyle Distillery
• Age: 8 Years
• ABV: 57.5% Cask Strength
• Size: 700 ml

This 8-year-old single malt Scotch whisky has been aged exclusively in ex-Sherry casks, delivering a rich and robust flavor profile that is characteristic of the Kilkerran style.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: A sweet and smoky aroma with a noticeable peat smoke influence, complemented by hints of toasted marshmallows and smoked ham, along with notes of dark chocolate and clove
• Palate: Offers a coastal essence with sea salt and fishing nets, combined with the sweetness of candied apples and toffee
• Finish: A lingering sweet peat influence with a burnt candy note that persists on the palate

Please note, this bottle does not come with a box.

• Region: Speyside, Scotland
• Distillery: Aberlour Distillery
• Age: 18 Years
• ABV: 43%
• Size: 700ml

This old bottling of Aberlour 18 Year Old is a luxurious Speyside whisky, aged to perfection for nearly two decades. Known for its rich and full-bodied profile, the whisky is matured in a combination of ex-bourbon and Oloroso sherry casks, delivering an elegant balance of fruity sweetness and spice.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: Aromas of ripe peaches, dark chocolate, and warm spices, with a hint of butterscotch.
• Palate: Rich and smooth, with layers of honeyed fruit, sherry-soaked raisins, and a touch of toasted almonds, rounded by soft oak and spices.
• Finish: Long and satisfying, with a lingering sweetness of dried fruit and gentle spice.

• Region: Islay, Scotland
• Distillery: Lagavulin Distillery
• Age: 16 Years (2006 - 2021)
• ABV: 43%
• Size: 700 ml

This double-matured Lagavulin has been finished in Pedro Ximénez sherry casks, adding complexity and richness to this beloved whisky. Known for its reliability and depth, it’s a dram that never disappoints.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: Pronounced peat smoke intertwines with dark fruits, honey, wax, and ash, accompanied by a subtle sour note, albeit somewhat flat.
• Palate: Abundant smoke and ash dominate the palate, complemented by mineral notes and a delicate fruit sweetness.
• Finish: A lingering finish characterized by an enduring smokiness.

• Region: Islands, Scotland
• Distillery: Jura
• Age: 16 Years
• ABV: 40%
• Size: 700 ml

Jura 16 Diurachs’ Own is the flagship expression of the Jura Distillery, embodying the rich heritage and character of the island. Crafted from spirits aged for a minimum of 14 years in American oak casks, this whisky is then finished for an additional 2 years in ex-Amoroso Oloroso sherry casks. This careful aging process enhances the whisky's natural attributes, creating a full-bodied character that has garnered a loyal following worldwide.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: The aroma is sweet and inviting, with caramel notes that lead into rich buttery tones. Hints of honey sweetness mingle with a touch of orange spice, creating a warm and fragrant bouquet.
• Palate: On the palate, the whisky showcases a delightful transition from vanilla custard and maple syrup to spiced oak, punctuated by subtle clove. This complex interplay of flavors adds depth and richness to the experience.
• Finish: The finish is long and lingering, marked by sweet toffee and honey notes that leave a satisfying impression, inviting another sip.

Jura 16 Diurachs’ Own is perfect for those who appreciate a well-balanced whisky that beautifully marries light floral elements with a rich, sherried complexity. Enjoy it neat or with a splash of water to unlock its full range of flavors.

• Region: Speyside, Scotland
• Distillery: Glenfarclas
• Age: 25 Years
• ABV: 43%
• Size: 700 ml

The Glenfarclas 25 is a remarkable, long-aged sherried whisky that showcases the heritage and craftsmanship of the Glenfarclas Distillery. This expression offers a full-bodied and robust experience, where the harmony between the spirit and sherry oak is expertly balanced.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: Rich and inviting with notes of nutty aromas and subtle smokiness.
• Palate: Unveils flavors of marmalade, honey, and freshly ground coffee, creating a delightful complexity.
• Finish: Concludes with a lovely hint of Belgian dark chocolate that lingers at the back of the palate.

This 2021 Release of Glenfarclas 25 is an exceptionally enjoyable dram, perfect for any occasion, embodying the timeless quality and character that Glenfarclas is known for.

• Region: Islands, Scotland
• Distillery: Isle of Arran
• Age: 15 Years
• ABV: 52.9% (Natural Cask Strength)
• Size: 700 ml

This Arran 15 Years is a special Private Cask Bottling for MIZUNARA in Hong Kong, matured in a Sherry Hogshead. Bottled at natural cask strength, it perfectly balances the rich sherry influence from the cask with the distinct Arran spirit after 15 years of maturation. Only 302 bottles were produced.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: A rich combination of raisins, apricots, and malty cereals.
• Palate: The sherry flavors shine through with dried fruits and a malty sweetness, offering a well-rounded profile that showcases the depth of the Arran distillery’s character.
• Finish: Long and complex, leaving a lasting impression of the delicate balance between the sherry cask and the spirit.

Review:

Rated 87 points by WhiskyFun (SGP 641), the review notes a solid balance of flavors and complexity. The complete review can be found here.

This bottling is a true treat for sherry cask lovers and Arran whisky enthusiasts, presenting a well-rounded experience of the distillery’s spirit.

• Region: Highlands, Scotland
• Distillery: Royal Brackla
• Age: 15 Years
• ABV: 59.3%
• Size: 700 ml

This exceptional Royal Brackla Whisky was distilled in 2007 and bottled in 2023, having matured in a single cask of refilled hogshead (#11064). With only 217 bottles released worldwide, this whisky is a rare find for enthusiasts.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: Opens with inviting notes of sponge cake, vanilla, and butter, complemented by zesty citrus peels, caramel, and toffee.
• Palate: The taste delivers a delightful candied sweetness, enriched with hints of nuttiness, followed by salted caramel and a medley of warm spices.
• Finish: A long and satisfying finish, showcasing warm spices like cloves and cinnamon.

For a truly transformative experience, we highly recommend adding a splash of water. This reveals enhanced citrus and sweet mandarin notes, beautifully balanced with hints of baked tarts, minerality, and saltiness, making it an incredibly enjoyable whisky.

• Region: Speyside, Scotland
• Distillery: Dailuaine
• Age: 14 Years
• ABV: 57.2% (Natural Cask Strength)
• Cask: Sherry
• Size: 700 ml

Distilled in 2008 and bottled in 2023, this Silver Seal Dailuaine 14 Years Old is a limited edition from cask number #11067, with only 233 bottles available worldwide.

Tasting Notes:

• Aroma: The nose is rich with notes of raisin, salty accents, dried plum, and crème brûlée, complemented by creamy nuances, pencil shavings, and hints of leather.
• Palate: The palate reveals a delightful combination of salty and nutty flavors, with a creamy texture and a sweetness from dried fruits, resulting in a smooth and satisfying mouthfeel.
• Finish: The whisky concludes with a medium-length finish, leaving a warm and pleasant aftertaste.

• Region: Highlands, Scotland
• Distillery: Glendronach Distillery
• Age: 11 Years
• ABV: 59.6% (Natural Cask Strength)
• Size: 700ml

This Single Cask bottling showcases the exceptional character of a unique barrel, capturing the essence of the whisky's long maturation process. Distilled in 2008 and matured for 11 years in a Pedro Ximenez Puncheon cask #4186, it was bottled in 2020, with a total of 650 bottles released.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: Inviting aromas of orange-cardamom spice blend with bramble fruit and toasted vanilla, enhanced by a creamy barley sweetness.
• Palate: A delightful medley of flavors, including candied ginger, toasted cinnamon, and hazelnut mocha. The experience is further enriched with notes of cheesecake, berry compote, and caramel wafer, creating a harmonious and indulgent profile.

Experience the remarkable depth and complexity of this exclusive Glendronach release, a true testament to the craftsmanship of the distillery.

• Region: Speyside, Scotland
• Distillery: Tamnavulin Distillery
• Age: 20 Years
• ABV: 43%
• Size: 700 ml

Tamnavulin, derived from the Gaelic meaning "mill on the hill," was established in 1966 but was mothballed less than 30 years later. It was revived in 2007 and currently operates with 6 stills.

This whisky was distilled in 1991 and matured for 20 years in Refill Sherry Hogsheads before being bottled in 2011 by Gordon & Macphail.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: Floral notes intertwine with cereal aromas, creating an inviting bouquet.
• Palate: Soft and gentle, with subtle spicy elements that enhance the overall profile.
• Finish: The finish is slightly sweet, providing a pleasant conclusion to the tasting experience.

• Region: Highlands, Scotland
• Distillery: Glendronach
• Age: 21 Years
• ABV: 48%
• Size: 700 ml

The Glendronach 21-year-old, affectionately known as "Parliament," is named after the assembly of rooks that vigilantly watch over the distillery's warehouse. This exquisite whisky is crafted from a blend of spirits matured in Pedro Ximenez and Oloroso Sherry casks sourced from Andalucia, Spain, encapsulating a rich and full-bodied sherry influence.

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: A captivating aroma that introduces elegant ripe blueberries and plums, complemented by candied orange.
• Palate: A comforting essence reminiscent of pudding, providing a rich and indulgent mouthfeel.
• Finish: The finale is a warm embrace, characterized by notes of dark chocolate and treacle, leaving a lingering and satisfying conclusion.

This 2023 Release of the Glendronach Parliament 21 is a testament to the distillery's commitment to quality and craftsmanship, making it a must-try for whisky enthusiasts.