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It's been over a decade since we've revisited the Balvenie range. From the 12 Year Old, right up to the venerable 30 year old expression, the house style emerges as one of the lightest and most delicate to be found from Speyside with almost no peat evident. 'Doublewood' gains its character from maturation in two woods, transferred from traditional x-Bourbon American oak to a Sherry oak casks for its final maturation. It's sometimes described as the classic, "essential" expression in Balvenie’s core range. From a 30ml sample, the nose is lifted with vanilla, dilute honey and dried fruits. The entry is featherweight, unfolding into a medium-weight dram with moderate flavours of dried fruit and a warm mouthfeel. An aftertaste of dried grass and drying oak sustains a little prickle. All up, this is uncomplicated and typical of the distillery style, but even at 12 years old, Doublewood still tastes surprisingly young. 40% Alc./Vol.

Tasting note: One of the highlights in the new-look range, this harkens back to some of the earliest Arrans which were mostly matured in Sherry casks. Ginger snaps, cinnamon and fruit'n'nut dark chocolate aromas follow with a lovely dried fruit aspect (figs, dates, apricots). Bold but balanced; drier in the mouth than the nose suggests with fresh dried fruit flavours, leaning towards apricots. Pepper, cinnamon and ginger bread spice up the medium long finish. A flavoursome 'contemporary' sherried style that's different to traditionalists like Glendronach or Macallan. 55.8% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

The result is a perfect combination of vibrancy and depth. The nose is sweetly aromatic with notes of cream soda, cacao husk, sandalwood, pineapple and green almonds. In the mouth, a viscous honeyed entry precedes spicy wood aromatics along with parchment and caramelised walnuts. Adding water brings a little of that Ardmore smoke to the fore. The finish is refreshing and long. Simply sip and savour—with a dash of water to release the oils and esters—or enjoy as a long drink with soda, Japanese style.

The Benromach Cara Gold Malt Whiskey is a true delight for the senses. Distilled and bottled in Scotland with a vintage of N/A, this expression from Benromach is a testament to their expertise in crafting exceptional whiskies. On the nose, rich aromas of honey, caramel, and vanilla dance with hints of dried fruits and subtle smokiness, creating a warm and inviting bouquet. The color is a deep golden amber, reminiscent of a sunset over the Scottish Highlands. On the palate, this whiskey offers a perfect balance of sweet and smoky notes, with flavors of toffee, butterscotch, and oak mingling with a gentle peatiness. The finish is long and satisfying, leaving a lingering warmth and a touch of spice. Overall, the Benromach Cara Gold Malt Whiskey is a smooth, complex, and truly exceptional spirit that is sure to please any whiskey connoisseur.

The Gordon & MacPhail Discovery - Smoky, Bunnahabhain 10-year-old Whisky is a true delight for the senses. This single malt scotch whisky is produced in Scotland by the renowned Gordon & MacPhail, who have been crafting exceptional spirits since 1895. On the nose, this whisky offers an enticing aroma of smoky peat, with hints of sea salt and brine. The colour is a rich amber, reminiscent of golden sunsets over the Scottish coastline. On the palate, a burst of Campfire smoke is immediately followed by notes of warm spices and sweet honey. The combination of flavors creates a complex and well-balanced taste that is both bold and smooth. The finish is long and lingering, leaving a satisfying warmth in the mouth. Overall, the Gordon & MacPhail Discovery - Smoky, Bunnahabhain 10-year-old Whisky is a beautifully crafted expression of Scottish whisky, showcasing the perfect balance of smokiness and sweetness. A must-try for any whisky lover.

The Elements Of Islay Cask Edit Whisky is a true expression of Scotland's rich whisky-making history and expertise. This 46% ABV whisky is presented in a 700mL bottle, showcasing the perfect balance of strength and flavor. On the nose, one is met with an inviting aroma of smoky peat, intertwined with hints of sweet vanilla and oak. The color is a deep amber, reminiscent of the Scottish Highlands. On the palate, the whisky delivers a complex and well-rounded taste, with notes of caramel, citrus fruits, and a gentle smokiness that lingers pleasantly. The finish is long and warming, leaving a satisfying warmth in the throat. Crafted by the renowned Elements of Islay distillery, this whisky is a testament to the exceptional quality of Scottish whisky production. Enjoy it neat or with a splash of water to truly appreciate its character.