Jim Murray's Japanese Whisky of the Year for 2022. The small-scale craft (or Ji) whiskies from Kurayoshi have been impressive. Blenders here often combine malt whisky from Scotland with locally produced whisky. This is not an uncommon practice in Japan, and the exact breakdown typically remains undisclosed. There have been several strong reviews for the 18 YO (see below). One can't help noticing the similarity in packaging to Suntory's Yamazaki 18...

Distilled in 2016 using 100% Islay barley, harvested in 2015 and peated to a whopping 129.3ppm, 13.3 offers a slight shift on the usual approach which is typically Bourbon only, this time being aged in a combination of first-fill ex-American whiskey casks and second-fill European oak casks from Rivesaltes, France, and Ribero del Duero, Spain. The total maturation was five years. 61.1% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

(This whisky has recently been repackaged as a standard 21 Year Old as opposed to its previous incarnation as 'Gran Reserva'). Glenfiddich resurrects the lost tradition of maturing whisky in rum casks with this Glenfiddich 21 Year Old single malt Scotch whisky. Rum distillers from Sancti Spiritus, near the Sierra del Escambray in the heart of Cuba, worked to develop this unique Cuban rum finish. Casks of Cuban rum are decanted at the distillery in Scotland and then filled with 21 Year Old Glenfiddich to absorb the unique character lingering in the wood. The result is the unmistakable Glenfiddich flavour revealed through a new and vibrant overtone.

Exceptionally hand crafted Okinawa Single Malt Whisky reserved in selected North American white oak casks for 12 years. Kura is made from best quality Indica with black Koji unique to Okinawa using traditional production methods of over 600 years of craftsmanship. Complex aroma and mellow taste bring whisky lovers to a different and new concept of true local Japanese whisky.

Following on from last year’s 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, Intense Arabica has strong espresso notes and a higher ABV of 44% as opposed to 40%. So for drinkers it will be the first pick. Collectors will want both. 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.

LARK DISTILLERY Limited Release Rum and PX Sherry Cask Single Malt Whisky 53.2% ABV, Tasmania Inspired by one of the greatest flavour pairings of all time, Rum and Raisin, Larks Limited Release Rum and PX Sherry is a classic reimagined. This unique single malt serves up notes of dried papaya, rum, forest fruits, cherries, and plum pudding before finally giving way to an incredibly fresh and complex finish.

Tasting note: The deep mahogany / gold ochre hue stains the sides of the glass and shows good viscosity. Mildly prickly aroma offers suggestions of pancake, dilute maple syrup and mocha. Little variation in the second phase which, if anything sees the intensity drop a notch. Light entry opens to a plush, clean, richly sherried profile; semi sweet Christmas cake flavours, hollowing out at the finish, concluding with vanilla and caramel at the fade. 45% Alc./Vol.

Mortlach Special Release 2022 The Lure of the Blood Moon Single Malt Scotch Whisky 57.8% ABV, Speyside Once underappreciated, Mortlachs quality and collectibility continues to rise and rise with each passing year. The 2022 Special Release is a deliciously rich expression of Mortlachs dark, meaty character that draws sweetness, darkness, and depth together in a mystical, intensely fruity union.