Owned by a family of whisky lovers, Benromach is a traditional Speyside distillery keeping things simple. Their small team of distillers rely entirely on their sense and expertise to create the finest handmade whisky. The 2022 release of Benromach 40 Year Old was bottled at a cask strength of 57.6%, this rare single malt whisky is natural in colour and was laid down in 1981 before spending four decades maturing in the finest first-fill Oloroso sherry casks. Aromas of cinnamon, ginger, Seville orange, roasted hazelnut and stewed red berries fill the nose. The palate offers notes of Morello cherries, baked apple, liquorice, dark chocolate, fruit cake and black pepper, with hints of dark berries and rich oak lingering in the finish. Only 1,132 bottles produced of this limited release.

The GlenAllachie Distillery, situated in Aberlour in Speyside, was established in 1967 and designed by William-Delme Evans, with construction carried out by Mackinlay McPherson. The distillery was meticulously designed to be almost entirely gravity-fed, reducing energy consumption. After Mackinlay McPherson became part of Invergordon in 1985, the distillery was mothballed until Campbell Distillers acquired it in 1989 and recommenced production in April of that year. In 2017, The GlenAllachie Distillers Company Limited was formed by Billy Walker, Trisha Savage and Graham Stevenson, who released their first core range of single malt whiskies in July 2018 and launched MacNair's Lum Reek in November of that year. The distillery opened its doors to visitors in May 2019 and has won numerous awards, including the Visitor Attraction of the Year for 2022. The GlenAllachie Distillery continues to innovate, releasing a 15-year-old whisky in April 2022 and a celebratory trilogy of Speyside Single Malts in honour of Billy Walker's 50-year career. In January 2023, they introduced The GlenAllachie 2012 Cuvée Wine Cask Finish and in March 2023, they released three new expressions, highlighting their commitment to innovation and excellence in the whisky industry. The GlenAllachie distillery is known for its impressive collection of casks, with over 50,000 casks spanning across 16 on-site warehouses. The passionate team at GlenAllachie has complete control of the end-to-end maturation process, allowing them to make decisions for all the right reasons. They use a variety of casks including ex-bourbon, ex-sherry, and virgin oak to create unique and complex flavours in their single malt whisky. They also have a range of cask finishes such as Port, Madeira, and Tokaji to add depth and complexity to their whiskies. Their commitment to quality and attention to detail has earned them numerous awards and accolades, cementing their position as one of Scotland's top independent distilleries. Billy Walker, the Master Blender of The GlenAllachie Distillers Company, has transformed the distillery since acquiring it in 2017. With a 50-year experience in the Scotch Whisky industry, Billy has received numerous awards, including Master Distiller/ Blender of the Year (World Whisky Awards, 2020) and was inducted into Whisky Magazine’s Hall of Fame in 2021. He played a key part in the resurrection of Deanston and Tobermory Distilleries and acquired BenRiach, GlenDronach and Glenglassaugh Distilleries, leading them to phenomenal success. Billy's hands-on approach is reflected throughout all stages of production, with a focus on quality over quantity. He hand-picks the finest casks to create exceptional quality whiskies to be enjoyed across the globe. The GlenAllachie 10 Year Old Chinquapin Oak Single Malt Scotch Whisky 700ml is an exceptional malt from Batch 2 of the Virgin Oak Series. It was first matured in American oak ex-Bourbon barrels before undergoing additional maturation in casks made of Chinquapin Oak (Quercus Muehlenbergii) for approximately 18 months. The casks were air dried for almost four years and then toasted to a medium level before hosting the spirit. The result is a complex and zesty malt with a rich bronze color, bursting with runny honey, sweet cinnamon and orange peel. Bottled at 48% and with natural colour and non-chill filtration, this malt offers a unique tasting experience. On the nose, it bursts with orange zest, heather honey and pecan, with notes of butterscotch, nutmeg and liquorice. On the palate, it offers lashings of cinnamon, barley sugar and toasted biscuits, followed by rose hips, orange peel and heather honey. This exceptional malt is a testament to the distillery's commitment to quality and attention to detail.

This story is a celebration of David C. Stewart M.B.E.’s creativity and inventiveness, when he created The Balvenie Classic – and in doing so, pioneered wood finishing. It is also the story of the team who helped him, through patience and perseverance, to try something new, and create something exceptional. The original cask finish. Probably the finest highland malt whisky. Those were the words on the first ever bottle of The Balvenie Classic. This story is a celebration of David C. Stewart M.B.E.’s creativity and inventiveness, when he created The Balvenie Classic – and in doing so, pioneered wood finishing. Aromatic and lively, aromas of vanilla and spice evocative of dried clove and chai are layered on a base of earthly, malty undertones reminiscent of Balvenie’s own barley loft. On the palate there is a perfect complement of light oatmeal syrupiness and brittle toffee are followed by delicate hints of spice and a rich drying sensation from European oak.

This Benriach's 12 Year Old Single Malt Whiskey features a collectable limited edition pack celebrating the Year Of The Rabbit in 2023. The rabbit is the fourth in the twelve-year cycle of animals which appear in the Chinese zodiac. It is an exceptional bottle of high quality and character with a flavour profile that is as special as the occasion it celebrates. A Speyside single malt Scotch whisky as intriguing and extraordinary as Benriach could not have come to be without a unique whisky making heritage, dating from 1898, when founder John Duff built his distillery. The whisky undergoes 12 years of maturation in a sherry-rich profile with the addition of bourbon barrels and port casks. The marrying of whisky from each cask has created a smooth and well-rounded character, with layers of sweet baked fruit, maple honey sweetness, cocoa, toasted oak, a hint of smoke and a lingering sultana and spiced mocha finish. The striking packaging featuring the iconic symbols of the Chinese New Year, makes this bottle a must-have for collectors and a special gift for those who appreciate fine whisky. Whether you are looking to add to your collection or simply want to try a truly special dram, Benriach 12 Year Old Chinese New Year 2023 Single Malt Scotch Whisky is the perfect choice for those who value quality and tradition.

Kilchoman Distillery was established in 2005 and is true to Islay's rich farm distilling heritage. The distillery uses local peat cut in the traditional way, slowly distilling all spirits by hand, allowing maturation to occur in traditional dunnage warehouses, and bottling on site without any colouring or chill-filtration. A limited-edition single malt from Kilchoman, Casado takes its name from the Portuguese word for marriage. Initially matured in 38 first-fill ex-bourbon barrels, it was then married in a pair of Portuguese red wine vats for two years before it was bottled. On the nose bonfire smoke with dried apricot, Dr. Pepper, and some coastal salinity as well notes of marzipan and toffee apples underneath. On the palate black pepper is cracked over smoked fish as well as lemon peel, tannic wood and stone fruits. There's a sweet jammy element present throughout. The finish is aromatic spices and red berry tartness that linger.

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. Mortlach Single Malt Scotch Whisky 700ml (Special Release 2022) was matured in refill American oak, then finished in virgin Tawny port and red muscat-seasoned casks. For the whisky that arguably has the most exotic cask make-up in this line-up, not to mention its famed meaty spirit, the nose on this is relatively quiet. It takes a bit of digging to find hints of red forest fruits (currants and raspberries) and perhaps some jelly confectionery notes.

Sherry and peat can be a challenging equation as the wine can almost cancel the peat. Some distilleries manage to get the balance right, creating a new and interesting take on much-loved classics (if your preference when drinking Laphroaig is to have it as coastal and earthy as possible, this may not be for you). The sherry oak finish isn't generally available in Australia, and we've only been able to secure a tiny volume. It has a higher ABV in its favour - the standard 10YO is just 40% - with Oloroso sherry casks in support. Apart from the expected smoke, seaweed and salt, you'll find notes of manuka honey, bacon and maple syrup. Probably lightly filtered, but it's not stated on the label. 48% Alc./Vol. Very limited stocks.

Dalmore has always set the highest standards in whisky craftsmanship. A pioneer in the art of cask curation, Master Distiller Richard Paterson has been the creative force behind The Dalmore for nearly five decades. Inspired by the vision of The Dalmore’s founder, Sir Alexander Matheson, and the achievements of the Mackenzie family who came before him, Richard is admired across the globe for his passion and innovative flair. The epitome of Dalmore's house style the 15 Year Old single malt is finished in different styles of sherry casks including Apostoles, Amoroso and Matusalem oloroso. This whisky has aromas of orange marmalade, cinnamon and nutmeg. Flavours of mandarin, vanilla, ginger and crushed apples flow across the palate to a peppery spice and oak finish.

Product Information: The Dalmore King Alexander III is the world’s first single malt to be crafted using an assemblage of six different cask finishes. This masterpiece showcases The Dalmore's philosophy of multi-cask maturation, bringing together Bourbon casks, Matusalem Oloroso Sherry casks, Madeira casks, Marsala casks, Port pipes, and Cabernet Sauvignon wine barriques—all expertly married in a Sherry butt. The result is a whisky that delivers a rich and enticing flavour profile with remarkable depth and complexity. Master Distiller Richard Paterson describes this pioneering whisky as "a fitting reward for those with the courage to stand apart and make a difference." Aromas of red berry fruits and hints of passion fruit lead to a palate of citrus zest, vanilla pod, crème caramel, and crushed almonds. The finish is endless, revealing dustings of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger spice—a true testament to The Dalmore’s remarkable legacy. This whisky commemorates King Alexander III of Scotland, who reigned from 1249 to 1286. His rule is remembered as a golden era of prosperity and territorial expansion, thanks to his diplomatic acumen and courageous leadership, including his pivotal role in fostering peace with England during a time of frequent conflict. Maker: The Dalmore’s history is steeped in royal legacy, symbolized by the 12-point Royal Stag that adorns each bottle. This emblem was bestowed upon Colin of Kintail, chieftain of Clan Mackenzie, by King Alexander III of Scotland after he saved the monarch from a charging stag in 1263. The Dalmore distillery was founded in 1839 by Alexander Matheson, with the Mackenzie clan taking control in 1867, further cementing the brand's connection to royalty and quality. The distillery’s unique collection of stills produces a robust and fruity new make spirit, ideal for long, complex maturation. Richard Paterson, a pioneer in cask curation, guided The Dalmore for nearly five decades, setting the stage for its global acclaim. Today, Master Whisky Maker Gregg Glass continues this tradition, blending innovation with time-honoured techniques to craft exceptional whiskies. Gregg Glass, awarded Master Distiller of the Year 2023 at the Global Icons of Whisky Awards, works closely with Richard Paterson OBE, pushing the boundaries of whisky-making while preserving The Dalmore’s timeless legacy. Philosophy: For nearly two centuries, The Dalmore has been guided by visionary whisky makers, forging exclusive relationships with the world’s finest bodegas and wineries to secure the best casks. Under their expert care, time, cask, and artistry work together to shape the spirit into an unparalleled whisky. The Dalmore's relentless focus on realising the full potential of its single malt ensures each bottle is a masterpiece, reflecting the distillery’s commitment to excellence. Nose - Red Berry, Subtle Passion fruit, Vanilla Pod Malty and fruity, unmistakably Dalmore. Seville orange zest, rose, malty cereal, barley and chocolate. Creamy vanilla fudge, and tropical vinous notes trail. Palate - Citrus Zest, Crème Caramel, Crushed Almonds Round feel. Winter berries, spice, zesty orange liqueur notes, amaretto sweet nuttiness. Finish - Cinnamon, nutmeg, Ginger Beautiful spicy impression in the finish. Peppery with judged oak followed by subtle claret notes.

Product Information: Part of Dalmore's Principal Collection, the 12 Year Old Sherry Cask Select is an elegant Highland Single Malt, showcasing a unique Sherry finish that balances the nutty notes of Oloroso with the sweet influence of rich Pedro Ximénez. This expression offers twice the Sherry influence compared to Dalmore's standard 12-year-old, bottled at a higher strength to deliver a richer profile of sweet fruit and luxurious spice. Awarded 96 points at the Ultimate Spirits Challenge in 2020, this whisky is described by Master Distiller Richard Paterson as “elegance personified, displaying a multitude of spectacular flavours—a truly decadent masterpiece.” The spirit begins its maturation journey in American white oak ex-bourbon casks, where it develops the hallmark Dalmore house style of chocolate, orange, and spice. It is then fully finished in specially crafted Sherry casks, blended from aged Oloroso and Pedro Ximénez, designed exclusively for The Dalmore. The result is a stunning single malt, rich with sweet fruit, warming spice, and the unmistakable elegance of Dalmore. Maker: The Dalmore’s regal heritage dates back to 1263, symbolized by the iconic 12-point Royal Stag that adorns each bottle. This emblem was a gift to Colin of Kintail, the first chieftain of Clan Mackenzie, after he saved King Alexander III of Scotland from a charging stag. In 1839, Alexander Matheson founded The Dalmore distillery, with a vision to create an exceptional single malt. In 1867, Clan Mackenzie descendants took ownership, marking the beginning of the distillery's rise to prominence and adopting the Royal Stag as a guarantee of quality. The distillery's unique collection of stills produces a robust and fruity new make spirit, perfect for long and complex maturation. For nearly five decades, Richard Paterson has pioneered cask curation at The Dalmore. Now, Master Whisky Maker Gregg Glass, awarded Master Distiller of the Year 2023, continues this tradition of excellence, blending time-honoured methods with modern innovation. Philosophy: For nearly 200 years, The Dalmore has been guided by an unbroken lineage of visionary whisky makers. Through long-standing partnerships with the world's finest bodegas and wineries, the distillery secures access to the best casks available. Under the watchful eye of Dalmore’s whisky makers, each cask is meticulously curated to unlock the full potential of their single malt. The result is a whisky that blends time, craftsmanship, and artistry into a masterpiece—unparalleled in its complexity and refinement. Nose - Caramelised Orange, Ginger, Honey Quite the sherry influence. Raisins and dried plums. Cherries and loads of dark chocolate. Toffee too and coffee beans. Then it becomes slightly fresher, because of the addition of oranges. Palate - Dark Chocolate, Crushed Almonds, Cinnamon Honey and oranges. Black cherries and a lovely layer of dark chocolate, which is followed by some spices such as a touch of black pepper, cinnamon and cloves. A pinch of ginger too. Finish - Sweet Mangos, Panna Cotta, Lemon Sponge Sweet Mangoes, creamy Panna Cotta, accented by orange peel, and lemon sponge cake. Hints of cacao and coffee beans linger in the finish.