Whisky Bible (95)

Nose (23.5): Crunchy, crisp sugars capture the malt fresh and youthful as though in aspic.

Taste (24): Profoundly salivating. Like malt sets off fermentation, icing sugars sets off the barley-rich juiciness to the maximum level... and the mid-point? Hard to believe but here you hit malt max!

Finish (23.5): Not sure if it is possible to get better balance between oak and malt in a Highland whisky. Light mocha and liquorice. But a sub-strata of creamy Horlicks, too...

Balance (24): Principally has a firm glazed feel to this. But the intensity of the malt takes the breath away. Too beautiful.

A superb rendering of Glenmorangie's elegant Highland spirit in a gloriously whimsical, yet sophisticated presentation. The flowers adorning the case and label eloquently capture the profile of the whisky and give one of the great classics of world whisky the flair it deserves.

Renowned for producing elegant, exquisitely crafted single malt whiskies, Glenmorangie unveils its notable expression, the 'A Tale of Winter Marsala wine Cask Finish'. Distilled in the Highlands of Scotland, this limited-edition Highland Single Malt is matured in American oak ex-bourbon barrels before being transferred to select Marsala wine casks. This exquisite maturation imparts an array of intriguing flavours; from ripe fruits to rich spices, with a delightful hint of winter's chill.

With its profound complexity and warming depth of character, the 'A Tale of Winter Marsala Cask Finish' articulates the craftsmanship and dedication of Glenmorangie's Master Distillers. Embodied within each sip, one experiences a distinct narrative articulately woven into this enthralling dram. A true collector's piece, the Glenmorangie, Highland Single Malt A Tale of Winter Marsala wine Cask Finish, Highlands NV, delivers an unparalleled drinking experience, befitting of Glenmorangie's esteemed heritage. Indulge in this delightful winter's tale; a testament to the remarkable alchemy of time, wood, and spirit.

Crafted by time and tradition, the Glenrothes Single Malt 42YO NV is a fine whisky unrivalled in complexity and quality. This premium spirit hails from the renowned Glenrothes Distillery set in the heart of the Scottish Speyside region. Distilled in-hand selected oak casks, the process allows the whisky to develop a deep, mature character, accentuated by rich, full-bodied notes of vanilla, ripe fruits, and warm spice.

This luxurious single malt is non-vintage (NV) being client-centric, Glenrothes allows the master distiller the authority to select casks when they are at their peak of maturity, rather than being dictated by age. The exquisite Glenrothes Single Malt 42YO NV is bottled straight from the cask revealing a natural colour and high strength that varies from cask to cask. An ultimate testament to quality and pedigree, this whisky's reputation for excellence is well-deserved, a must-have for any serious collector or connoisseur.

Immerse yourself in the sublime experience of the Hakushu Single Malt Peated Malt 100th Anniversary Suntory Whisky 18YO NV. This prestigious limited-edition offering, crafted to commemorate the centennial celebration of Suntory, Japan's distinguished whisky distillery, showcases the meticulous dexterity of Japanese craftsmanship. Masterfully crafted at the foot of the Taiwanese Alps, the pure mountain waters and natural forest peat play an integral role in the elegantly peated profile. Intensive malting, controlled aging, and careful blending have culminated in a whisky that dances delicately between nuanced smoke and mellow sweetness. Exhibiting an amber gold hue, this single malt unfurls profound layers of dried fruit, winter spice, and velvety smoke on the palate, trailing into a lingering, sophisticated finish. Suntory's century of expertise is earnestly reflected in the Hakushu Single Malt Peated Malt 100th Anniversary Suntory Whisky 18YO NV, making it a jewel in the crown of any discerning spirit collection.

Colour: Fine, polished brass.

Aroma: Delicate and grassy with a bright orchard fruit profile, reminiscent at first of Speyside but developing a unique persimmon complexity.

Taste: Exceptional purity rivalled by few if any others. A fine salinity balanced by bright satsuma citrus notes makes for a sweet, ethereal palate.

Finish: For such a light, balanced whisky the finish is exceptionally long and complex. The persimmon on the nose comes back for an encore, taking a final bow with notes of ginger, allspice and bay.

Colour: Bronze.

Aroma: The nose approaches with an intensity that the ultra-fine 12 year old foregoes and brings with it a herbal note with subtle tarragon and sage alongside dried, oloroso-soaked dates.

Taste: A remarkable richness courtesy of the judiciously applied sherry barrels, this has a very complete palate with density, focus and a subtle cinnamon spiciness.

Finish: Goes on for ages, this is a pensive whisky that rewards those who spend time with it, exploring every nook and cranny within its palatial expanse.

The Hibiki Blended Harmony - 100th Anniversary Edition 21YO NV is the epitome of radiant brilliance, meticulously crafted by Japan's famed House of Suntory. Founded in 1899, this esteemed distillery manifests its centennial mastery in this unique blend. It pays homage to the time-honoured traditional practices, utilising malt whiskies from Hakushu and Yamazaki distilleries, fused with grain whisky from Chita. This sublime anthology is aged in various types of cask, including rare Mizunara oak, promising a medley of exquisite flavours.

This primordial elixir portrays distinctive fruity notes with undertones of Mizunara (Japanese oak), subtly enhanced by whispers of sherry, dark chocolate and a hint of smoky bitterness. Its wafting nose of rose, lychee, hint of rosemary, mature woodiness, sandalwood notes and offering a long finish prove the Hibiki Blended Harmony - 100th Anniversary Edition 21YO NV to be a revered drink for discerning palates. This honourable craftsmanship reflects the Japanese soul - a thought-provoking entreaty for the senses.

Behold the exceptional 'Ichiro Blended Malt Double Distilleries Chichibu x Komagatake Bottled 2021 NV'. This coveted spirit manifests from the revered distilleries of Chichibu, a revered sanctum of modern Japanese whisky, and Komagatake, that boasts its idyllic location amidst the lush Japanese Alps. Precisely crafted by the whisky maestro Ichiro Akuto, this blend epitomises years of dedicated labour and profound expertise. Its double distillation engenders a distinctive character, merging the best of both terroirs. Matured uninterrupted since non-vintage until 2021, it exudes an exquisite aroma, underscored by a palette that is an unbroken harmony of sweetness, spice, and a touch of oak.

Inherent in each limited bottle of 'Ichiro Blended Malt Double Distilleries Chichibu x Komagatake Bottled 2021 NV' is a rite of Japanese excellence, and an ambrosial detonation of surprise, luring even the most discerning malt connoisseur. This malted marvel is an investment worth every penny in the pursuit of the exceptional.

Experience the illustrious Jack Daniels Single Barrel Select NV, a radiant expression of mastery from the renowned American distillery. Painstakingly selected for its unique taste and refined character, each barrel is crafted in Lynchburg, Tennessee, the birthplace of the legendary Jack Daniel's brand. Deep within their bespoke, charred white oak barrels, the single barrel whiskey matures, absorbing rich, caramel-flavoured hints with undertones of smooth vanilla.

The handcrafted nature of Jack Daniels Single Barrel Select NV ensures a whisky of superior quality that boasts a robust palate, warm finish and a subtly satisfying spice. Every bottle delivers distinct character, making each one an exclusive spirit. Loved globally for more than a century, Jack Daniel's is renowned for its meticulous selection process and built on traditional methods that date back to its inception in 1866. Indulge in the complexity of Jack Daniels Single Barrel Select NV, an exquisite American spirit that redefines the whiskey benchmark.

Experience the remarkable artistry of the Karuizawa Single Malt 1985 Cask 2364 1985; a true testament to the craft of Japanese whisky. Distilled in Nagano Prefecture, Japan, at the now-defunct Karuizawa distillery, this 1985 vintage quickly gathered international appraisal for its distinctive flavour profile and rare availability. The whisky matures in Spanish sherry casks, which imparts a deep, rich hue alongside notes of dried fruit, earthy oak, and intoxicating spices. This elegant single malt reveals its robust, yet balanced, complexity through a harmony of dark chocolate, toasty nuts, and a hint of exotic citrus. The Karuizawa Single Malt 1985 Cask 2364 1985 not only represents a glorious era of whisky-making but is also an enticing collector's item, its value only heightened by the distillery's closure in 2011. This spiritually Japanese dram is a distinguished masterpiece blending history, tradition, and unparalleled craftsmanship.

The Karuizawa Single Malt Acclaim Collection NV is a connoisseur's dream, produced in Japan’s iconic Karuizawa distillery, nestled in the foothills of the active Mount Asama volcano. This distilled masterpiece offers a symphony of complex flavours, a product of its location's microclimate conditions and traditional production methods. Aged in sherry casks, this single malt whisky captures a nuanced depth of character. Its alluring aroma of dark chocolate and fruit with notes of spices invites a velvety texture on the palate, punctuated with hints of cinnamon, and caramel. This distillery, though no longer operational, continues to be celebrated for its meticulously crafted spirits. A true testament to its legacy, the Karuizawa Single Malt Acclaim Collection NV is a limited edition, reflecting its rarity and collectability. Experience the sublime balance of intensity and smoothness of this fine whisky, ensuring a memorable tasting experience for discerning connoisseurs.

Indulge in the rare beauty of Karuizawa Single Malt Noh Whisky - The Mask of Chorei Beshimi Sherry Butt Single Cask No 7576 28YO Bottled 2012 1983, regarded as a masterpiece among whisky connoisseurs. This exquisitely rich single malt has spent 28 years maturing in Sherry casks, intensifying its unique character and depth of taste. Produced at the esteemed Karuizawa distillery, nestled in the Japanese Alps, this whisky reflects the site's glorious natural surroundings. Distilled in 1983 and bottled in 2012, the whisky is scarce yet well-preserved. The distillery's commitment to traditional production methods imparts an unmatched class, regarded as a reflection of Japanese craftsmanship at its finest. Karuizawa Single Malt Noh Whisky - The Mask of Chorei Beshimi Sherry Butt Single Cask No 7576 28YO Bottled 2012 1983 offers notes of dark chocolate, dried fruit, and a hint of smoke, culminating in a gloriously long, warming finish that delights the senses.

Expertly crafted by the esteemed Kurayoshi Distillery, The Matsui Single Malt Mizunara Cask NV pioneers new horizons for spirits. Nestled in the lush Tottori Prefecture of Japan, this distillery upholds time-honoured tradition, meticulously fermenting the spirit in vats made from Japanese Mizunara oak. This specific oak lends unique flavours to the malt; notes of sandalwood, coconut, and a hint of spice are discernible on the palate. The Matsui Single Malt Mizunara Cask NV is made from locally sourced barley, delicately mashed and distilled to maintain the grain's natural aromatics.

Beautifully golden in colour, the spirit exudes the aroma of green apple and pear, with undertones of Mizunara oak. On the palate, it is sublime, offering a rounded, delicate profile complementing its fragrant bouquet. The intriguing finish lingers with tastes of sweet malt and oak. Each sip of Kurayoshi Distillery - The Matsui Single Malt Mizunara Cask NV is a testament to traditional Japanese craftsmanship.

Expressing a timeless elegance from Japan's Tottori Prefecture, the Kurayoshi Distillery introduces The Matsui Single Malt The Peated NV. This exquisite spirit presents a traditional profile, meticulously crafted using malted barley slowly smoked with peat. It embodies the distillery's unwavering commitment to quality, from the pristine, mineral-rich spring water used in its production to the expert ageing in ex-bourbon barrels.

The Matsui Peated NV reflects the distillery's lush forest surroundings with its aromatic profile, evoking earthy elements, verdant fern, and smoky cedar. The palate is a revelation of sweet spices, dark chocolate and ripe oranges, which unfold passionately, culminating in a long, warming finish. A testament to Japanese craftmanship, the Kurayoshi Distillery's The Matsui Single Malt The Peated NV is a symbiosis of traditional and innovative distillation techniques. Dichotomously smooth yet robust, it's an emblematic selection for the distinct and discerning palate.

Experience an unparalleled delight with the Ladyburn Lowland Single Malt Private Cask Collection 40YO 1974 1974. Handcrafted at Ladyburn, the marvel of Scotland's Lowland region, this exquisite single malt whisky exemplifies a rich heritage of superior distilling. Matured for 40 long years in private casks, its allure lies in the harmonious blend of its natural, untouched flavours with the display of exceptional craftsmanship. Each sip invigorates with a bouquet of fruit, oak and hints of smoke- a testament to its uniquely aged allure. Encapsulating the spirit of a bygone era, this rare collection, bottled in 1974, narrates a story of time, patience and passion. Indulge in a journey of transcendent flavour profile with the Ladyburn Lowland Single Malt Private Cask Collection 40YO 1974 1974, a whisky that delivers an unforgettable sensory experience for the discerning patron. A piquant symphony, each bottle savours the legacy of a truly stellar distillery.

Renowned for its full-bodied and robust character, the Lagavulin Islay Single Malt 16YO NV is an emblem of Islay’s unique distillation heritage. This single malt whisky is created on the island of Islay, Scotland; an area celebrated for its peat-rich soil, which influences a distinct smokey, iodine-laced flavour profile. Matured in oak casks for 16 years, this spirit is a testament to Lagavulin's excellence in traditional whisky-making techniques. This Bottling hosts a deep, amber gold colour, brooding with the unparalleled aroma of dry peat smoke, with a trace of maritime notes and rich, smooth malt. On the palate, it offers a balance of dried fruit sweetness harmoniously intertwining with a smoky-dryness, ending in a long, glorious finish. The Lagavulin Islay Single Malt 16YO NV is truly more than just a whisky – it's an indulgence, a privilege, a rich tapestry of peat, oak and subtle sweetness.

The peat is fine-grained, much more clearly highland peat than Islay or Coastal as it foregoes the iodine and TCP or boat oil, more reminiscent of an autumn bonfire somewhere in the distance. The sherry brings in the classic Macallan profile to work in perfect balance with that unique peat-inflected edge. A true masterpiece of the bottler's art. Just 690 crystal decanters filled at 47%.

Crafted with unwavering precision, the Macallan Highland Single Malt A Night On Earth A Night On Earth Bottled 2023 NV stands as a testament to Macallan's artisanal distinction in the world of fine whiskies. Distilled in the illustrious Speyside region of Scotland, Macallan's masterful distillers extract the elegant flavour profile using traditional copper stills, and age the spirit in hand-picked oak casks. The choice of casks is pivotal, contributing to the whisky's luminous amber hue and full-bodied complexity.

The Macallan Highland Single Malt A Night On Earth A Night On Earth Bottled 2023 NV, speaks of an inimitable journey, achieving a perfect balance of rich, fruity notes and subtle oakiness. The spirit's mellow, vanilla-infused sweetness on the palate is interspersed with hints of cinnamon, nutmeg and ginger, transcending into a long finish of dried fruits and spice. This strikingly unique Scotch whisky signifies Macallan's ceaseless quest for perfection and commitment to unrivalled quality.

Crafted with unwavering precision, the Macallan Highland Single Malt A Night On Earth A Night On Earth Bottled 2023 NV stands as a testament to Macallan's artisanal distinction in the world of fine whiskies. Distilled in the illustrious Speyside region of Scotland, Macallan's masterful distillers extract the elegant flavour profile using traditional copper stills, and age the spirit in hand-picked oak casks. The choice of casks is pivotal, contributing to the whisky's luminous amber hue and full-bodied complexity.

The Macallan Highland Single Malt A Night On Earth A Night On Earth Bottled 2023 NV, speaks of an inimitable journey, achieving a perfect balance of rich, fruity notes and subtle oakiness. The spirit's mellow, vanilla-infused sweetness on the palate is interspersed with hints of cinnamon, nutmeg and ginger, transcending into a long finish of dried fruits and spice. This strikingly unique Scotch whisky signifies Macallan's ceaseless quest for perfection and commitment to unrivalled quality.