Founded in 1824 The Macallan is a pioneer in Scottish whisky production, with a global reputation for its single malts. Founded by Alexander Reid, The Macallan draws its unique character from a confluence of influences. From the fertile Speyside region (historically called "Maghellan") to traditional methods and the natural resources of Scotland, Spain, and North America, each element contributes to the whisky's distinctive personality. The Macallan's unwavering commitment to quality is embodied in its "Six Pillars," a philosophy encompassing every aspect of production. From the "place" itself to the passionate people involved, each pillar reinforces the brand's dedication to excellence. Central to this philosophy is the "Mastery of Wood and Spirit." The distillery's reputation rests on the exceptional quality of its oak casks, meticulously sourced, crafted, and seasoned under the watchful eye of The Macallan's Master of Wood. Up to 80% of the final flavour profile is influenced by these casks, highlighting their crucial role in shaping the signature Macallan style. Another hallmark is the whisky's natural colour, derived solely from the wood during maturation. The distillery acknowledges the inherent variation in wood, with each cask imparting unique flavours and hues. Through expert cask management and selection, The Macallan ensures a consistent and beautiful colour spectrum across its bottlings, a key element of the brand's identity. The Macallan's dedication extends beyond Scotland. The distillery partners with Spanish cooperage companies, overseeing the entire process – from identifying oak trees in northern Spain to seasoning the casks for 18 months before their journey to Scotland. This meticulous approach, encompassing "tree to finished seasoned cask," underscores The Macallan's unwavering commitment to crafting an exceptional whisky experience. The Macallan Litha presents a unique proposition in the world of single malts. This whisky is crafted entirely from first-fill sherry casks sourced from Jerez de la Frontera, Spain. This meticulous selection embodies the harmonious coming together of Scottish and Spanish influences to create an exceptional spirit. The story of Litha begins amidst the sun-drenched vineyards of Jerez. Here, grapes destined for sherry production are meticulously cultivated. These casks, crafted to The Macallan's exacting specifications, then embark on a journey to Scotland. Upon arrival, they encounter The Macallan's "fruity new make spirit," sparking a remarkable union that defines the character of the whisky. The name "Litha" draws inspiration from the Celtic summer solstice. This astronomical event signifies a pivotal moment, a burst of new life and a shift in the balance of nature. Similarly, The Macallan Litha celebrates the transformative power that arises when two distinct forces converge. The vibrant presentation box, designed by award-winning illustrator Sija Hong, further enhances the whisky's allure. Two bold colour palettes represent Scotland and Spain, united by the central image of a tree. This symbolic representation underscores the crucial role that cask maturation plays in creating The Macallan Litha, a whisky born from the harmonious fusion of two worlds. The unique character and complex flavours of The Macallan Litha is derived from the use of first fill sherry seasoned oak casks, the whisky mingling with the sherry seasoned oak. The gentle scent of vanilla and butterscotch unites with a spark of citrus over a bright canvas of tropical fruits, reminiscent of a summer’s day and the radiance of the sun’s energy. As the flavour develops, smooth vanilla ice cream topped with a berry compote dances on the palate, beautifully balanced with warming wood spice, chocolate, salted caramel and pecans, with a lingering hint of sweet oak.

Note: Product has come from a private collection and as such has some minor scuffing/scratches/handling marks. Actual product not shown. Following on from the duo of Rich Cacao and Fine Cacao comes the second instalment in Macallan's limited annual series. 'Intense Arabica' and 'Smooth Arabica' are said to be influenced by the Ethiopian Arabica coffee bean. Both special malts exude flavours of sweet oak, tiramisu and dark chocolate and reportedly provide a delightful whisky and coffee pairing experience. The story goes that Chief Whisky Maker, Steven Bremner wanted to create an expression that would pair perfectly with an espresso, so he worked with a group of caffeinated experts including Ethiopian grower Kenean Asefa Dukamo, Scottish roaster Lisa Lawson and acclaimed American barista Andrea Allen. “Exploring the world of coffee with our masters in the industry, who shared their knowledge, creativity, and love for their art, was both an education and an inspiration,” says Bremner. “There are many parallels between the approach to creating incomparable whisky and coffee. Each requires unique skills and craftsmanship to achieve depth and complexity of taste and both worlds aim to deliver an extraordinary consumption experience.” Each whisky was aged in a combination of American and European oak casks but have different accents. As the name suggests, Smooth Arabica brings a creamy, silky character to Macallans malt, retaining the dark spice and heavy fruit we've come to expect. Also one for the collectors to complete the set. Drawing inspiration from a connection to the natural world, the distinctive packaging incorporates organic by-products and gives them new life. These are made partially from repurposed coffee bean husks, created by Italian paper mill, Favini. Very limited stocks.

The Yamazaki Distillery is Japan’s first and oldest malt whisky distillery founded in 1923 by Suntory's founder Shinjiro Torii. Yamazaki is not only the soul place of Suntory Whisky but the birthplace of Japanese Whisky. Inspired by traditional Scottish whisky, it is said that Torii selected the land of Yamazaki at the foot of Mt. Tennozan, for its high-quality water source and natural environment ideal for whisky making. Yamazaki was born from the surprising, delicate yet profound experience of a Japanese single malt whisky. Multi-layered with fruit and Mizunara aromas, Yamazaki whiskies are complex and deep. Made at Yamazaki Distillery, the birthplace of Japanese whisky, its signature multi-layered taste is highly praised by whisky connoisseurs all over the world. The House of Suntory honours the birthplace of Japanese whisky, capturing and celebrating the pioneering roots of one of the world’s greatest whiskies from the place Shinjiro Torii chose to begin the illustrious journey of Japanese whisky. Fifth generation Chief Blender Shinji Fukuyo has returned to the roots of what made Yamazaki Single Malt quintessentially Yamazaki: deep, complex and multi-layered with fruit and Mizunara notes. The Yamazaki Smoky Batch The First, a ground breaking Japanese whisky that pushes the boundaries of flavour. Crafted with precision by Suntory’s master distillers, the oldest distillery in Japan, this exceptional single malt showcases the artistry of Japanese whisky-making. With its notes of sweetly fruity flavour, slowly spreading, and gentle smokiness in every sip. It’s often described as possessing the characteristic maturation and balance found in Yamazaki whiskies. However, what sets it apart from regular Yamazaki is its unique quality. A whisky with a distinct “Japanese-style gentle smokiness.” Golden in colour with aromas of pineapple and honey notes with the slightly smoky aroma of glowing embers. On the palate a sweetly fruity flavour, with slowly spreading, gentle smokiness. The finish is faintly woody and peaty flavour elements that linger long after the first sip. This release is part of a limited edition batch, making it a prized addition to any whisky collection. Don’t miss the opportunity to savour the first of its kind from Yamazaki.

Kanosuke Single Malt Japanese Whisky embodies Kanosuke Distillery’s concept of "mellow land, mellow whisky. It was produced using all 3 of their pot stills, aged in several varieties of oak barrels, and blended together after 3 years of maturation. The Second Edition of the 2021 Kanosuke was distilled from unpeated malt in 2018, this release is largely matured in first fill re-charred ex-bourbon barrels for about 3 years. About 5,000 bottles have been released at a cask strength ABV of 57%. Citrus, Vanilla, Honey and Lemon Tea on the nose leading to a flavours of grapefruit with some cinnamon sweetness, sweet fresh fruits, vanilla and dark chocolate bitterness.

The Yamazaki Distillery is Japan’s first and oldest malt whisky distillery founded in 1923 by Suntory's founder Shinjiro Torii. Yamazaki is not only the soul place of Suntory Whisky but the birthplace of Japanese Whisky. Inspired by traditional Scottish whisky, it is said that Torii selected the land of Yamazaki at the foot of Mt. Tennozan, for its high-quality water source and natural environment ideal for whisky making. Yamazaki was born from the surprising, delicate yet profound experience of a Japanese single malt whisky. Multi-layered with fruit and Mizunara aromas, Yamazaki whiskies are complex and deep. Made at Yamazaki Distillery, the birthplace of Japanese whisky, its signature multi-layered taste is highly praised by whisky connoisseurs all over the world. The House of Suntory honors the birthplace of Japanese whisky, capturing and celebrating the pioneering roots of one of the world’s greatest whiskies from the place Shinjiro Torii chose to begin the illustrious journey of Japanese whisky. Fifth generation Chief Blender Shinji Fukuyo has returned to the roots of what made Yamazaki Single Malt quintessentially Yamazaki: deep, complex and multi-layered with fruit and Mizunara notes. Yamazaki Whisky is Suntory's flagship single malt whisky, from Japan’s first and oldest malt distillery, multi-layered with fruit and Mizunara aromas. From Yamazaki was born the surprising, delicate yet profound experience of a Japanese single malt whisky. Spiritual and deep, made at Yamazaki Distillery, the soul place of Japanese whisky, its signature multi-layered taste is highly praised by whisky connoisseurs all over the world. Today, Suntory Single Malt Whisky Yamazaki Whisky is not only the No.1 single malt whisky in Japan, but is enjoyed in more than 35 countries. Between 2014 - 2017, the annual Yamazaki Limited Editions were some of the most sough after annual release from Japan. These whiskies were limited in numbers and contained some of the best Yamazki liquid. Once they realised there were shortages they took these released to the wayside, making room for other non-age statement whiskies such as Essence of Suntory Volumes 3 and 4 and the recent Yamazaki Cask Finish releases. Back in 2021 and now again in 2022 we have again the Yamazaki Limited Edition 2022. This release was matured in Mizunara wood, resulting in an aromatic and creamy expression delivering a fruity and lively tasting experience.

Blanton's Bourbon, created by Albert Blanton, is a renowned brand known for its rich history and exceptional quality. Blanton's was the first to introduce the concept of single barrel bourbon, a testament to their commitment to craftsmanship. Hand-bottled and hand-labelled, each bottle showcases a horse and jockey stopper, reflecting Kentucky's equestrian heritage. Blanton's is celebrated for its exceptional taste, with notes of caramel, vanilla and spice. Distilled in Kentucky, it embodies the heartland of bourbon production. With its small-batch approach, each bottle offers a unique flavour profile, making it a coveted addition to any collection. Due to limited availability and high demand, finding Blanton's can be a challenge, further adding to its allure and desirability. Blanton's Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Red Label 750ml is an elusive and highly sought-after bourbon whiskey, exclusively produced for the Japanese export market. With a proof of 93, this bourbon offers a refined and complex tasting experience that is sure to captivate the palate. The Red Edition, aged for a minimum of 8 years, presents a deeper and richer flavour profile compared to the Original Single Barrel. The bourbon boasts a warm maple colour that is both enticing and inviting, setting the stage for a memorable tasting experience. As you bring the glass to your nose, the aroma immediately captures your attention with its depth and power. The fragrance reveals delightful notes of caramel, vanilla, chocolate fudge, cherry pipe tobacco and a hint of honey. These enticing scents combine harmoniously, creating a complex bouquet that hints at the depth of flavors to come. Upon tasting the Blanton's Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Red Label 750ml, you are greeted with a deeper and richer expression of Blanton's signature flavour profile. Creamy notes of brown butter and clove tantalize the taste buds, providing a velvety smoothness to the whiskey. As the flavors unfold, you'll discover layers of toasted oak, dark chocolate and a subtle spiciness that lingers on the palate. The combination of marmalade, toffee and wild honey creates a harmonious interplay of sweet and savoury, resulting in an indulgent taste experience that is both satisfying and complex. The mouthfeel is smooth and velvety, a testament to the aging process and careful selection of barrels. Each sip of Blanton's Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Red Label 750ml is a journey through a myriad of flavors, showcasing the craftsmanship and expertise that goes into creating this exceptional bourbon.

The Macallan Rare Cask 2022 release is crafted from the finest and rarest sherry seasoned oak casks, unearthed by The Macallan Whisky Mastery Team using their knowledge, skill, passion, and creativity in their quest to seek out the extraordinary. This single malt whisky reveals the remarkable art and science of the Whisky Maker in selecting unique oak casks that exhibit a distinctive and complex flavour profile. They were curated for maturation by The Macallan Master of Wood and delivered to the exacting specifications of The Macallan Whisky Mastery Team to create Rare Cask. This luxurious expression highlights the magic and science in The Macallan’s intricate whisky making process, as the whisky maker identifies the exceptional oak casks which impart the intense and highly complex flavour profile. Soft aromas of vanilla with rich raisin lead the journey of discovery into this single malt whisky, followed by a sweet fusion of fresh apple, lemon and orange. Intense sweet raisin flavours dominate the palate, before giving way to vanilla and dark chocolate, with layers of light citrus zest. The finish is long, rich and velvety to offer a decadent whisky experience that will leave a lasting impression.

Every Macallan single malt reveals the distilleries unrivalled commitment to the mastery of spirit and wood for which they have been known since it was established in 1824. It is an expression of their enduring desire to go beyond ordinary, to seek out the extraordinary, and create peerless single malts. The 2022 release of the Macallan Double Cask 18 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky was matured in both European and American sherry seasons oak casks. The European casks provide a subtle spice and the American oak gives the balance of delicate vanilla, together delivering a whisky with a sweeter, warmer taste and character. Flavours of dried fruits, ginger and toffee are prominent throughout.

Every Macallan single malt reveals the distilleries unrivalled commitment to the mastery of spirit and wood for which they have been known since it was established in 1824. It is an expression of their enduring desire to go beyond ordinary, to seek out the extraordinary, and create peerless single malts. The Macallan Sherry Oak 18 Years Old forms part of The Macallan Sherry Oak range. When matured in Oloroso sherry seasoned oaks casks from Jerez, Spain, their rich, fruity, and full bodied 'new make' spirit is transformed into an iconic single malt. The sherry seasoned oak cask delivers a single malt characterised by the mature oak, ginger, and raisin flavours.

This vintage Cognac comes from a family of public notaries who has been located close to the city of Cognac for many generations. This Petite Champagne was part of the inheritance of the father, who had bequeathed his stocks of Cognac to his wife and his son, who was public notary like him. The father has bought this batch on January 1974 to one of his clients, who was at the time the President of one of the most important Cognac Houses. Unfortunately, when the father passed away, his wife and his son were in disagreement and the succession was blocked until we propose a solution. This is a very “sentimental” cognac, stored under State control since the 25th of January 1974, in a very humid cellar located on the bank of the Charente river in the city center of Cognac. This cellar is today the Cognac Museum. The harvest 1973 was abundant ( 62% compared to the harvest 1972 in Petite Champagne!) and was qualified of “harvest of the century” at the time. Warm gold colour, with amber lights. The nose is rich and unctuous; ripe fruits, dark-red plums, Mirabelle plums, spices (curcuma, cardamom, pepper) and sandalwood, cedar scents. Surrounding the fruits, the lovely old rancio nose that well-matured Cognac develops. The taste increase the fruity delicacies (plums again, dark chocolate with cinnamon) and the spicy side (tobacco, nutmeg). At the end, slightly bitter as coffee beans, complexity and elegancy of a controlled rancio.