Cardhu 16 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (Special Release )
The 2022 Diageo Special & Rare collection is known as "Elusive Expressions", drawn from some of Scotland’s most interesting, legendary distilleries and curated by Master Blender Dr Craig Wilson, portrays the otherworldly beings which have fiercely protected the heartlands of remote Scottish distilleries for an eternity, according to our ancient fables and the mythical creatures come to life revealing their true characters. This year each bottle has its own unique QR code which, when scanned, takes you on a multi-sensory experience that tells you the story of the whisky, the mythical creature behind the artwork, and gives you some tasting notes to prompt your nose and palate along the way. The label artwork follows almost as a sequel to the 2021 range, revolving once again around the theme of mythical beasts and stories. Illustrator, Ken Taylor, returns again and is joined this year by digital visualisation artist, Kevin Tong. Cardhu 16 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky 700ml (Special Release 2022) was matured in re-fill and re-charred American oak, then finished in Jamaican pot still rum-seasoned casks. A richer, fuller nose that has the hallmark traits of rum-finished whisky, there are soft fruits and pastry notes on the nose. The palate is spicier, certainly drier, and has hints of ginger, stone fruits, and perhaps some mint or eucalyptus.
Kavalan Solist Brandy Strength Single Malt Taiwanese Whisky
In ancient times, the land around I-Lan in Taiwan was called Kavalan, a mysterious land that was solely inhabited by the indigenous people of the Kavalan clan. The name was officially recognized by the Emperor of the Chin dynasty in the year of 1809 when the original city was also built under the same name. Part of the Kavalan Solist series, matured in superior-quality brandy casks individually and meticulously selected to create uniquely fruity characteristics. This cask strength single cask malt whisky is non chill-filtered with natural colour to retain the fullest flavours.
Yuza Distillery Single Malt Japanese Whisky ( Release)
Product Description Crafted with precision and passion, Yuza Distillery’s 2023 Single Malt Japanese Whisky is a refined masterpiece that embodies the essence of Japanese craftsmanship. Aged in bourbon barrels, this exceptional whisky delivers a harmonious blend of clean, fruity notes with a delightful touch of vanilla sweetness. With an alcohol volume of 51%, it strikes the perfect balance between power and elegance, offering a complex yet smooth drinking experience. The whisky’s unique profile, characterised by its vibrant fruity aromas and refined flavour, makes it a true standout from the Yuza Distillery’s collection. Each sip invites you into a world of delightful aromas and sophisticated taste, making it a perfect choice for whisky connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike. Maker Yuza Distillery was established in 2018 in Yamagata Prefecture, marking Japan’s first whisky distillery in this region. It is the brainchild of Masaharu Sasaki, who sought to create a whisky that combined traditional Japanese whisky-making techniques with the best influences from Scotland. The distillery’s collaboration with Forsyths, the world-renowned Scottish still manufacturer, ensures the use of high-quality, custom-designed distillation equipment, including Canadian Douglas Fir washbacks and a Glendronach-inspired spirit still. The small, specialised operation focuses solely on single malt production, utilising the pristine water from Mount Chōkai and mature ex-Bourbon and Sherry casks. While it is still early days for Yuza, the distillery has already earned recognition for its meticulous attention to detail and its commitment to quality over quantity. Every batch produced is a testament to the craft of its team, which is dedicated to creating whiskies that will stand the test of time. Philosophy Yuza Distillery’s philosophy is built around the concept of creating authentic Japanese whisky that stands on its own, offering a unique expression of its environment. By focusing on small-batch production, each whisky reflects the pure water from the snowmelt of Mount Chōkai and the distinctive terroir of the region. Their commitment to traditional distilling techniques—combined with innovation—allows them to produce whisky that offers a sense of place and purity in every drop. The distillery is dedicated to sustainability and craftsmanship, using 100% barley sourced from Crisp Maltings and gradually introducing local barley into their grain mix. Yuza’s commitment to single malt production is paired with a focus on long-term maturation in hand-selected casks, resulting in whiskies that are full of character and depth. Tasting Notes Nose Fragrant and Inviting A captivating bouquet of Fuji apple, Shanghai peach, and pear, with hints of honey and vanilla creating an enticing aroma. Palate Crisp and Smooth A clean and balanced taste, showcasing fruity sweetness with underlying vanilla notes for a refined and elegant mouthfeel. Finish Elegant and Lingering A long, smooth finish, with subtle pear and lingering sweetness, leaving a soft, lasting impression.
Hakushu 12 Year Old Single Malt Whisky
This wonderful peated Japanese single malt whisky hails from Hakushu distillery, owned by Suntory. The distillery resides in the forests of Mt. Kaikomagatake, with the original Hakushu distillery built in 1973. Rather fittingly, it boasts a fresh and foresty flavour profile. On the nose you’ll find toasted barley, chopped almonds and a little bit of barrel char. Hints of milk chocolate and dried grass bring sweetness. Much more fruit on the palate, but it's by no means a sweet whisky. Still rich, herbaceous and grassy, with a waft of smoke along the way. Nice expression here.
Hillwood Distillery Port Strength Single Malt Australian Whisky
Single malt. Single cask. Small batch. Hillwood is a contemporary Australian whisky. Made in the tradition of Scottish single malt, but given a distinctive edge from the wild Tasmanian landscape and their artisanal family approach. A Single Cask, Tasmanian Single Malt Whisky, Non-chill filtered, directly from the Cask. Port Cask aged in French oak wood. Approximately 30-34 bottles produced per batch and bottle at cask strength. Aromas of toasty butterscotch toffee and malt with notes of roasted almonds, Rich fruit cake and plum pudding. A thick, oily, oaky palate with dried fruits and dark chocolate. The dram builds across the palate to a big, full and zesty peak. The finish is long, warm, and comforting with clean dry and lingering spiciness. Takes a little water very well with more viscosity and marzipan notes developing as it rests in the glass.
Ardbeg Scorch Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Ardbeg is a renowned and revered name in the world of Scotch whisky. Situated on the remote Isle of Islay off the west coast of Scotland, Ardbeg Distillery has been producing exceptional single malt whiskies since 1815. Known for its distinctive peaty and smoky flavour profile, Ardbeg whiskies have gained a loyal following among whisky enthusiasts worldwide. The distillery's location plays a significant role in shaping the character of Ardbeg whiskies. The island's unique terroir, with its peat-rich soil and briny coastal influence, imparts a distinct maritime essence to the whiskies. This, combined with the traditional peat-smoking process, results in an unmistakable smoky aroma and flavour that is synonymous with Ardbeg. Ardbeg offers a diverse range of expressions, each showcasing its own unique characteristics. From the flagship Ardbeg 10 Year Old, with its bold and robust flavors of peat smoke, iodine and citrus, to limited editions and special releases, Ardbeg continuously pushes the boundaries of whisky craftsmanship. The distillery's commitment to traditional production methods and attention to detail is evident in every bottle of Ardbeg. The use of traditional copper pot stills, the carefully selected malted barley and the maturation process in oak casks all contribute to the complexity and depth of flavour found in Ardbeg whiskies. Ardbeg has garnered numerous awards and accolades over the years, solidifying its position as one of the world's leading whisky brands. To celebrate Ardbeg Day 2021, the distillery bottled this limited edition Ardbeg Scorch Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky. The packaging and flavour profile is a nod to Islay’s definitely-real-and-totally-not-made-up flavour breathing dragon! Matured in ex-bourbon American oak casks, fiercely charred, and jam packed with smoke, this limited release is not one to be missed. This whisky is a bright, brushed gold colour in the class. Aromas of smoke and soot lie in wait with hints of aniseed and patchouli. Add a drop of water to reveal herbal notes of sage, briarwood, and pine wisp. A charred oak palate with black liquorice weaving between notes of medicinal lozenge. A long finish dragging on into its happily ever after.
Hillwood Distillery Sherry Strength Single Malt Australian Whisky
Single malt. Single cask. Small batch. Hillwood is a contemporary Australian whisky. Made in the tradition of Scottish single malt, but given a distinctive edge from the wild Tasmanian landscape and their artisanal family approach. A Single Cask, Tasmanian Single Malt Whisky, Non-chill filtered, directly from the Cask. Sherry Cask aged in French oak wood. Approximately 30-34 bottles produced per batch and bottled at cask strength. On the nose are classic oloroso sherry cask, offering a rich and sweet-spicy flavour. Big and fruity palate with nuttiness, it speaks with Authority. A white pepper, oaky, and long finish.
Great Southern Distillery Limeburners Sherry Strength Single Malt Whisky
Great Southern Distillery Limeburners Sherry Cask Cask Strength Single Malt Whisky has been matured in ex-bourbon American oak barrels and finished in an old Australian Sherry cask. From here it is transfer straight from barrel to bottle, creating a full and intense flavour. When served neat, this whisky has fruit and spice aromas, but add a splash of water and you get malted barley, honey and vanilla mixed with buttery caramel and raisins. Each unique barrel will exhibit its own unique characteristics, creating slight variation from batch to batch.
Hibiki Japanese Harmony Master's Select Japanese Whisky
Suntory Whisky was founded in 1923 by Shinjiro Torii. For over three generations, Suntory's master blenders have devoted themselves to pursuing the harmony of Japanese nature and craftsmanship. Shaped through masterful technique and served with a reverence for Japanese omotenashi, Suntory whiskies are among the most awarded and admired in the world. Hibiki is the paragon of harmony - launched in 1989 to commemorate Suntory's philosophy of living in harmony with people and nature. The name Hibiki means "resonance" in Japanese. Suntory Whisky Hibiki resonates with the subtleties of nature infused by the twenty-four seasons of Japan's traditional calendar and reflected in the twenty-four facets of its bottle's design. Hibiki is a noble blend of innumerous malt and grain whiskies from Suntory's globally acclaimed Yamazaki, Hakushu and Chita distilleries. These whiskies are meticulously blended to created a sense of "wa" - a oneness which unveils a full orchestra of flavours and aroma. Hibiki is embraced as an icon of Japanese luxury from the award winning House of Suntory Whisky. Tasting Notes Colour - Amber Nose - Plum in syrup, roses, a sweet woodiness Palate - Orange marmalade, dark chocolate, a slight bitterness Finish - Lingering sweetness and acidity, spices and wood
Kanosuke Double Distillery Blended Malt Japanese Whisky
Product Description Kanosuke Double Distillery Blended Malt Japanese Whisky is an exquisite, unpeated blended whisky, showcasing the combined expertise of Kanosuke Distillery and their newly released Hioki Pot Still Single Grain Whisky. Bottled at 53% ABV, this rich and complex expression is crafted from a marriage of Kanosuke’s signature single malt whisky and the Hioki grain whisky, aged in a careful selection of Ex-Bourbon American Oak and Refill Sherry Oak casks. Non-chill filtered, this whisky presents a perfect balance of sweet fruit, spice, and floral aromas, making it an exceptional addition to the Kanosuke core range. This blend marks a significant milestone in Kanosuke’s journey, symbolising the distillery’s first chapter in producing world-class Japanese whisky. Maker Established in 2017, Kanosuke Distillery has quickly risen to prominence as one of Japan's most exciting whisky producers. Perched on the picturesque Kagoshima coastline, famed for its breathtaking sunsets, the distillery benefits from a unique maritime influence on its maturing whisky. Part of the esteemed Komasa Jyozo company, with a rich history in shochu production, Kanosuke, under the guidance of Yoshitsugu Komasa, now crafts exceptional single malt and blended whiskies. Their distinctive approach features three different pot stills, each imparting unique characteristics to the spirit. This commitment to innovation, combined with an unwavering dedication to quality, allows Kanosuke to create complex yet approachable whiskies, reflecting their passion for craftsmanship. Philosophy Kanosuke Distillery's philosophy is a harmonious blend of innovation, tradition, and respect for nature. Drawing upon Komasa Jyozo's centuries of shochu expertise, the distillery seamlessly merges time-honoured techniques with cutting-edge craftsmanship. Kanosuke believes whisky making is an art form, requiring a delicate balance of science and intuition. The use of distinct pot stills, coupled with a meticulous selection of the finest casks, results in whiskies of exceptional complexity, subtlety, and balance. The coastal climate of Kagoshima, combined with the team's unwavering attention to detail, ensures each bottle reflects its unique environment while upholding the highest standards of Japanese whisky production. Tasting Notes Nose: Floral Elegance A vibrant bouquet of summer melon, stone fruits, and lemongrass creates an expressively floral and inviting aroma. Palate: Bittersweet Complexity The palate reveals a rich complexity, leaning into deeper bittersweet notes of black tea, clove, orange peel, and raspberries. Finish: Lingering Warmth A lingering warmth and satisfyingly complex aftertaste.