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. The Singleton of Glendullan 15 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky 700ml (Special Release 2022) was matured in refill American and European oak, then finished in ex-wine casks. The nose on this is soft, delicate, and complex. Given time and patience, it grows and expands into a kaleidoscope of aromas that are as diverse as they are many. Grassy, floral, fruity, malty, sweet, and even a touch of oak – it’s all here. And that’s just the nose! On the palate, the whisky has that classic highland Glen Ord austerity, with the wine cask influence introducing some drying tannins and fruitiness.

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.

The House of Rémy Martin is renowned for its exceptional cognacs and a legacy that spans centuries. Founded in 1724 in the heart of Cognac, France, this esteemed Maison has become synonymous with luxury, craftsmanship and a commitment to producing the finest cognacs in the world. From the very beginning, the House of Rémy Martin has been dedicated to the art of distillation and blending. Every step of the production process is meticulously executed, from the selection of grapes to the aging in oak barrels. The result is a collection of cognacs that embody the essence of French savoir-faire and terroir. One of the distinguishing features of Rémy Martin is its commitment to using only the finest grapes from the Grande Champagne and Petite Champagne crus. These exceptional vineyards, known for their chalky soil and unique microclimates, produce grapes with unparalleled character and aromatic potential. The expertise of the cellar masters at Rémy Martin is unrivalled. These guardians of tradition and craftsmanship possess a deep understanding of the aging process and the art of blending. They carefully select and blend eaux-de-vie from different vintages, resulting in cognacs that strike the perfect balance between complexity, finesse and harmony. The House of Rémy Martin is also known for its iconic Centaur logo, which symbolizes the unity of man and nature. This emblem represents the harmonious relationship between the land, the vine and the people who dedicate themselves to the creation of extraordinary cognacs. Rémy Martin offers a range of exceptional cognacs, each with its own distinct personality and character. From the renowned Rémy Martin VSOP to the prestigious Rémy Martin XO and the exquisite Rémy Martin Louis XIII, every bottle is a testament to the House's unwavering pursuit of excellence. In 2024, the house of Rémy Martin will be marking 300 years of exceptional cognac-making. Led by visionaries since 1724, the House will connect past, present and future with a year of special activations and products around the theme, ‘We Dream Forward’. For three centuries the House has combined craft and innovation, passing it forward to build sustainable exception for the future. To celebrate the holidays, the darkness of VSOP’s frosted bottle is amplified with an anniversary neck collar and gold and chalk white gift box embossed with the javelin motif. As the first VSOP Cognac ever created, this is an elegant expression of the Maison’s savoir-faire. The Remy Martin VSOP Majestic Momentum 300th Anniversary Edition Cognac is a celebration of the House's rich heritage and craftsmanship. The Remy Martin VSOP Majestic Momentum 300th Anniversary Edition Cognac showcases a warm and mysterious ochre hue in the bottle, transforming into a vibrant gold when poured into the glass. This cognac offers an aromatic harmony of powerful elegance. The nose is greeted with captivating notes of vanilla, dried apricot and candied pear, creating a delightful olfactory experience. On the palate, the cognac presents a balanced and complex flavour profile. A symphony of aromatic dried fruits intertwines with delicate hints of liquorice, offering an intricate and captivating flavour journey. The body of this cognac is structured and layered, reflecting the expertise of the House of Rémy Martin. It delivers a rounded harmony of dried fruits, providing a satisfying mouthfeel and a silky texture that gracefully coats the palate. The Remy Martin VSOP Majestic Momentum 300th Anniversary Edition Cognac is a remarkable tribute to the House's rich heritage and commitment to craftsmanship. With its alluring aroma, complex flavors and luxurious mouthfeel, this cognac embodies the essence of Rémy Martin's 300-year legacy.

The Glenmorangie distillery is located in the beautiful Scottish Highlands and is famous for its outstanding single malt whiskies. Glenmorangie, derived from the Gaelic language of Scotland, translates to "Valley of Tranquillity." A true testament to craftsmanship and tradition, Glenmorangie has been captivating whisky enthusiasts around the world for centuries. The story of Glenmorangie begins with its founder, William Matheson, who established the distillery in 1843. Situated near the tranquil Dornoch Firth, the distillery benefits from the region's pristine water source and the gentle sea breezes that caress the aging casks. These natural elements play a vital role in shaping the character of Glenmorangie whiskies, adding a touch of Highland magic to every bottle. One of the hallmarks of Glenmorangie is its commitment to the art of cask maturation. The distillery boasts the tallest copper pot stills in Scotland, which allow for a purer and more refined spirit. This, combined with the use of the finest American white oak barrels, results in whiskies that are smooth, complex and full of character. Glenmorangie takes pride in its dedication to innovation constantly pushing the boundaries of whisky production. The distillery is known for its "Extra Matured" range, where whiskies are finished in a variety of cask types, such as sherry, port and wine, to create unique flavour profiles. This experimentation has garnered Glenmorangie a loyal following of whisky connoisseurs who appreciate the diversity and complexity of their offerings. One of Glenmorangie's most iconic expressions is the Glenmorangie Original, a flagship whisky that embodies the essence of the distillery. For those seeking a more indulgent experience, Glenmorangie offers a range of limited edition releases and prestigious expressions. From the award-winning Glenmorangie Signet, with its rich chocolate and coffee flavors, to the rare Glenmorangie Pride 1978, aged for 41 years and exuding elegance and opulence, these whiskies are a testament to the distillery's unwavering commitment to excellence. Beyond crafting exceptional whiskies, Glenmorangie is deeply rooted in its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. The distillery is dedicated to minimizing its carbon footprint and protecting the natural resources that make their whiskies so special. From the use of renewable energy sources to the restoration of local wetlands, Glenmorangie strives to ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy their whiskies while preserving the beauty of the Scottish Highlands. Lush and invitingly herbaceous, Glenmorangie A Tale of the Forest is Glenmorangie’s first whisky crafted from barley kilned with woodland botanicals. Inspired by the ever changing natural wonder he encounters while wandering in the forest near his home, Glenmorangie’s Director of Whisky Creation, Dr Bill Lumsden, brought back an ancient method of kilning barley with botanicals. In this case, he chose juniper berries, birch bark and heather flowers. A whisky, infused with natural botanicals (juniper berries, birch wood and heather) during the kilning process ̶ bringing flavours of peppermint, menthol, eucalyptus, pine, wood sap, angelica, bitter orange and a hint of aromatic wood smoke. Evoking the scents, sounds and sights of the forest, the single malt surrounds your senses with aromas of pine, juniper and coriander, laced with wisps of smoke. Then tastes of deep-green eucalyptus, lit by rays of bitter orange, drift to a slow, gently oaky finish. The whisky’s fragrant, wooded depths have inspired illustrator Pomme Chan to dream up her own fantastical forest. Celebrating the whisky’s flavours, her artwork is showcased on the whisky’s pack.

The Gospel is more than just a whiskey brand. It's a testament to the passion and dedication of a small team of fanatics in Melbourne who have a fierce love for deliciously unpretentious rye whiskey. Led by their Master Distiller, Ian Thorn, The Gospel is Australia's only dedicated rye whiskey distillery. Ian is the boss of all things booze, and his expertise is evident in every bottle of The Gospel. Crafted and distilled from 100% Australian unmalted rye, The Gospel is a unique whiskey with a distinct flavour profile. The rye is cultivated and nurtured by a single farmer in the Murray Mallee region of South Australia, chosen specifically for its harsh climate and small, dense grains. This rye imparts deep, spicy flavours of vanilla, cinnamon and dried fruit, with developing notes of pepper, grass and grain. But The Gospel is more than just a great whiskey. The team behind it is passionate about standing up for what they believe in and supporting the community. They recognize their responsibility to operate in a responsible manner and to be conscious of their social impact and environmental footprint. That's why The Gospel uses 100% recyclable packaging, diverts their spent waste from landfill and donates 2.5% of net profit to their partner charities. Set in the backstreets of Melbourne's eclectic inner north, The Gospel distillery was designed and built by Ben and Andrew with the help of family and friends. It features a six-meter-high continuous column still, designed and built in-house, as well as a bespoke Copper Pot still. The Gospel wider team are an experienced group of booze industry experts, all of whom have a fierce love for deliciously unpretentious rye whiskey. The Gospel Solera Rye is a whiskey like no other. Made using 100% Australian grown unmalted rye from a single farm in the Murray Mallee region of South Australia, it's renowned for its distinct, extraordinary flavour that's unmatched by rye from other areas. The harsh climate and small, dense grains of the rye produce a unique terroir that imparts resilient rye grain flavours onto the palate. Double distilled and aged in a five-tiered bespoke solera system of new American oak, second fill American oak, and Australian red wine barrels, The Gospel Solera Rye utilizes ancient technology that has been used for centuries to perfect sherry, port, and even beer. The rye spirit moves through this unique system, resulting in a distinctively flavourful spirit that perfectly balances sweet and savoury. On the nose, you'll detect baking spices, rich caramel sweetness and stewed plum with port wine. The palate is characterized by sweet oak, orchard fruits, dark toffee, brown sugar and bright spices. The finish is rich and long, carrying dried fruits and fresh spice. The Gospel Solera Rye is perfect for modern cocktails and no-nonsense mixers. It's a rye that brings you whiskey flavours without dominating your drink, letting you get on with enjoying better drinks in good company. From shot glass to tall and bubbly highballs, Solera Rye is a crowd-pleaser that's perfect for any occasion. The Gospel Solera Rye is the perfect whiskey for everyday enjoyment. It's not just a display piece, but an essential spirit for every home bar. This whiskey embodies classic rye flavours in an approachable, soft and smooth way, making it an accessible rye with more character than anyone would expect. What sets The Gospel Solera Rye apart is Gospel's unique solera maturation system, which delivers an American-style rye whiskey with a unique easy-going Australian attitude. The whiskey perfectly balances sweet and savoury, making it ideal for sipping on its own or in your favourite cocktail. The Gospel Solera Rye has been recognized for its quality and unique character, winning silver at the 2020 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, the highest awarded medal for an Australian Rye Whiskey. If you're looking for a whiskey that's approachable, smooth and full of character, The Gospel Solera Rye is the perfect choice. It's versatile and perfect for any occasion, whether you're enjoying a quiet night in or a lively gathering with friends.

The Michter's "US 1" bottlings are so named to honour Michter’s heritage. The brand was established in 1753 as America’s first whiskey company. Washington and his troops drank Michter’s while they were hunkered down in Valley Forge. Unlike Bourbon or Rye, which, by definition, must be aged in new oak barrels, our US1 Unblended American Whiskey is aged in a way that utilizes whiskey-soaked barrels to achieve a rich and unique flavor profile. In late 2013, then Master Distiller Willie Pratt agreed to re- release our US1 Unblended American Whiskey after a nearly three- year absence from the market, deeming it "just right" and "the best it's ever been." Crucially, our US1 Unblended American Whiskey never contains grain neutral spirits - hence its "unblended" distinction. This Whiskey has deep butterscotch and vanilla notes, hints of caramel and dried fruit with a ripened fruit finish.

Akkeshi began distilling in 2016, based in the Akkeshi District of Hokkaido, the concept of distilling and maturing single malt in Japan’s northern wilderness traces back to the very first plans of Masataka Taketsuru, a pioneer of the country’s early whisky production. Taisho is the 12th of the 24 Japanese solar terms. The hottest period of the year, this is a celebratory time with many festivals and fireworks. The indigo label is inspired by yukata, the light summer kimono worn during the warmer months. As always, the exact production details are difficult to pin down, but the key malt is 100% from Hokkaido aged in a variety of casks including Mizunara and Bourbon, alongside imported grain purchased as new make and aged completely in-house (nine separate components contributed to the blend) This is signature Akkeshi, with fresh yet savoury/saline peatiness positioned at the forefront. A hot-blooded blend, this changes constantly in the glass and is best without water. Secondary notes of spun sugar and tropical fruit are joined by deep citrus, burnt sage and green almond notes in the mouth. It finishes spicy, salty and long.

The finest bourbon in the world comes from a single barrel. And it is never blended with whiskey from any other barrrel. That's the way Colonel Albert B. Blanton first bottled his private reserve Bourbon nearly a century ago. And that's the way Blanton's is bottled today. It's a costly, painstaking way to produce Bourbon. For a Bourbon's peak maturity varies from barrel to barrel. And only a master distiller can determine the exact moment the whiskey has extracted enough flavour from the wood. Thus he vigilantly monitors each barrel until it's aged to perfection and is deemed worthy of the Blanton label. 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 Black Label 750ml is a rare and highly sought-after bourbon whiskey, exclusively produced for the Japanese export market. With a proof of 80, this bourbon offers a smooth and enjoyable drinking experience. The main difference with the black label is the use of an 8-year minimum aged barrel, compared to the standard 6 years. Additionally, it is made using Buffalo Trace's mash bill #2, which has a higher rye content. The nose on this bourbon is truly stunning. It opens with floral notes, accompanied by hints of cherry and apple, creating a delightful and inviting aroma. As you delve deeper, you'll discover the presence of caramel, vanilla and oak, adding complexity and depth to the overall olfactory experience. When it comes to taste, Blanton's Black Label is incredibly smooth and easy to drink. It glides across the tongue with little to no burn, allowing the flavors to shine. The initial fruity and sweet notes gradually give way to the oak undertones of the 8-year aged juice. The oak is pronounced but not overpowering, adding a delightful richness to the overall taste profile. With a medium finish, Blanton's Black Label doesn't linger excessively but leaves a pleasant and satisfying aftertaste. Whether enjoyed neat or on the rocks, this bourbon makes for a great sipper, allowing you to savour each sip and appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into creating such a exceptional spirit.

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.

Established in 1994 Sullivans Cove is the quintessential small-batch luxury whisky. Distilled in Hobart, Tasmania, Sullivans Cove single malt is made using traditional methods and 100% Tasmanian ingredients. Inspired by nature and patiently aged the distillers aim to seek the sublime. Each cask is nurtured to it's natural peak, thousands of tiny decisions go into helping each cask reach its full potential. No two batches will be the same and every batch an opportunity for exploration. Tasmania has some of the cleanest water in world, making it an ideal place for producing world class whisky. Tasmania also has some of the best barley growing land in Australia. The combination of good grain and good water is the foundation of all good whisky. 100% Tasmanian malted barley is used to make all Sullivans Cove whiskies. The wash is brewed locally by brewers with decades of experience before being double distilled in a unique, Tasmanian built pot still (her name is Myrtle). The first distillation, known as the "wash run" produces "low wines" of about 20% abv. The low wines are then put back through the still for the "spirit run" to produce a spirt of around 70% abv. This spirit is then diluted to 63.5% abv before it enters into the casks for ageing. The majority of whiskies are aged in either 200L American oak ex-bourbon barrels, or 300L French oak ex-tawny barrels. Allowed to mature over many years in the unique Tasmanian climate - generally between nine and eighteen years. The scales are very well balanced on this one. In fact, if it weren’t for the gentle pauses at the beginning of the palate and the finish, it would be too perfect, and therefore not as alluring. As Miles Davis once said, “It’s not the notes you play, it’s the notes you don’t play.” Well said. And the way the oak develops during the finish, just when you don’t want to let go, keeping the show going; it brings another season to binge on, and we love it. We love it all. - Heather Tillott, Head Distiller Bottling Information Barrel No. - TD0079 Bottle No. - 421 of 435 Filled On - 24/02/2006 Decanted On - 02/05/2022