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.
Nikka 12 Year Old Blended Japanese Whisky
The Nikka 12 Year Old Blended Japanese Whisky is the product of two distilleries (Yoichi and Miyagikyo). This is a well-balanced blend and the result of 'the art of blending and craftsmanship'. It's also awarded 'Best Blended 12 Year Old ' at the 2016 World Whiskies Awards.
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.
Benriach 21 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky (New Release)
In 1898, John Duff built the Speyside Distillery, BenRiach. It is one of the few distilleries with its own on-site floor malting and draws its water from the Burnside Springs. This exquisite single malt has been crafted from a combination of unpeated and peated spirit and four cask matured for at least twenty one years in bourbon barrels, sherry casks, virgin oak casks and Bordeaux red wine casks. During long maturation, Benriach’s sweet Speyside smoke mellows and integrates with the fruit, malt and oak. After twenty one years, rich layering develops into an elegant honey smoke, enriched through multi-layered cask maturation. The whisky from each cask type, imbued with particular flavour characteristics, is then expertly married together to create a rich and elegant single malt, layered with lush orchard fruit and toasted pine wood with a honey smoke finish. All in perfect balance. This whisky has a honey gold colour. Aromas of berry fruit, orchard apple, wild honey and mountain oak spice. Candied grape, rich cocoa, smoked pine nut, across the palate finishing with caramelised pear and honey smoke.
Togouchi 15 Year Old Blended Japanese Whisky
Not strictly a Japanese whisky, Togouchi source grain whiskies from Scotland & Canada and aged them in Japan. This is a blend from Chugoku Jozo, who mature their whiskies in a tunnel rather than a warehouse. The temperature of the tunnel is always 15 degrees while the temperature of the cellar at the headquarters in Hatsukaichi city is a little higher than that. Nutty, spicy whisky with a lovely butterscotch mouth feel. On the palate it expresses vanilla sweetness and a fine peat iodine, with hazelnuts and chocolate on the finish. Almost feels like a whisky/bourbon hybrid.
That Boutique-y Whisky Company Oxford Artisan Distillery 3 Year Old Batch 1 Single Grain English Whisky
That Boutique-y Whisky Company bottles single malts, single grains and bourbons from a variety of renowned distilleries as well as producing award-winning blended malts and blends. These whiskies are adorned with cultish graphic novel-style labels. The Oxford Artisan Distillery has a penchant for using intriguing grains to make its marvellous whiskies. This is a single grain whisky made with ancient heritage grains, specifically corn, rye, wheat, and malted barley. What's more exciting is that the whisky is from the very first cask that the distillery filled and is a release of only 189 bottles. It was also given a finishing period in a Sauternes cask, imparting a helping of bright, fruity sweetness. Aromas of fresh baked apple pie lead to flavours of cinnamon and sultanas and a honey buttered toast finish. Bottle Information Batch - 1 Aged - 3 Years
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.
Kanosuke Mellow Single Malt Japanese Whisky
Product Description Kanosuke Mellow Single Malt Japanese Whisky is a masterful blend that marks the debut of the Kanosuke Distillery’s core range. Crafted with the utmost care, this whisky showcases the innovative spirit of the distillery, situated along the scenic coast of Kagoshima. The combination of three distinct pot stills, along with maturation in re-charred American white oak ex-“Mellowed Kozuru” shochu casks, gives this whisky its signature richness and depth. The result is a beautifully mellow whisky with a uniquely Japanese character, offering a harmonious balance of bold yet smooth flavors. With a rich amber hue, the whisky envelops the senses in ripe citrus, honey, and caramel aromas, leading to a delightful tasting experience with ginger, honey, and lightly smoked nuts. Its sweet aroma and gently bitter finish linger, leaving an impression of refinement and elegance. 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 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 single malts, 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 three 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 Aromatic Richness A vibrant blend of ripened citrus fruits like Karin and lemon tea, intertwined with sweet honey, banana, and caramel. These aromas create a fragrant and inviting bouquet that opens up beautifully with every swirl. Taste Sunset Flavours On the palate, the whisky unveils its sunset-like complexity, with warming ginger, honey, and lightly smoked nuts. This rich combination delivers a smooth, mellow taste that is both sweet and spicy, creating a luxurious mouthfeel. Finish Gentle Elegance A sweet lingering aroma and a mild bitterness that gracefully fades away. The aftertaste is smooth, leaving a satisfying sense of balance and refinement that lingers on the palate.