1998 Blair Athol K&L Exclusive 11 Year Old Provenance Single Barrel Cask Strength Single Malt Whisky ($74.99) One of the most exciting parts of our recent trip to Scotland was the visit we had with the Laing brothers, a pair of independent bottlers who don’t dabble too much in the U.S. market. We were pretty sure that these guys were sitting on a veritable treasure trove of barrels, however, and our tasting with them did not disappoint. One of the best deals our journey uncovered was an explosive little cask of Blair Athol, a Diageo-owned distillery in the Eastern Highland town of Pittlochry. Located just a few miles from Edradour, this quaint little operation is one of the oldest in Scotland (founded in 1798), but is more widely regarded for its role in Bell’s Blended than for its single malt potential. This 11 year old barrel will open some eyes, however – big, rich, enticing aromas of dried fruits, a supple mouthfeel with roasted almond skin flavors, and, while we don’t think it was peated, there are definitely traces of smoke on the finish. David OG and I both double-starred this entry on our tasting notes as a sure-fire winner. For the price, it may be the best overall deal we found in Scotland. -David Driscoll, K&L Spirits Buyer

Rosebank 21 Year Old 2011 Special Release Single Malt Whisky 750ml ($249.99) The 2011 Rare Release from Diageo. Exceptionally rare and delicious.

Canada

Pendleton “1910” 12 year Straight Rye Whiskey 750ml ($36.99)

Scotland – Blended Scotch

Johnnie Walker Double Black Blended Scotch Whisky 750ml ($44.99)

K&L Wine Merchants
http://www.klwines.com
Phone: 877-KLWines (toll free 877-559-4637)
Email: wine@klwines.com
San Francisco, Redwood City, Hollywood CA