anCnoc Single Malt Scotch Whisky welcomes 2001 Vintage to portfolio of vintage expressions

Premium Single Malt Scotch Whisky, anCnoc has introduced an exclusive 2001 vintage to its multi-award winning range of vintage expressions.

The limited edition liquid joins the family of single malts crafted at the Knockdhu distillery in Aberdeenshire, and follows a string of successful new releases for the brand which positions itself as refreshingly modern whilst still paying homage to age-old tradition.

With just 1,000 cases available globally this exceptional single malt has an RRP of £55 for 70c Stockists include specialist and independent retailers in the UK, US, Canada, Sweden and Japan.

Matured in hand selected Spanish and American oak casks and matured for over 15 years in traditional dunnage warehouses, the 2001 has been bottled in its most natural form, neither chill-filtered nor coloured at 46% ABV.

The combination of wood gives this mature expression, vintage gold in appearance, an outstanding depth, complexity and balance of flavour. It starts with freshly squeezed lemons and ripe blood oranges, creamy vanilla, ground spice and new leather on the nose, with lime honey, vanilla and chocolate to taste. 

anCnoc brand manager Stephanie Allison commented: “Like all anCnoc bottlings, fans will be able to detect the unmistakable Knockdhu style in every drop of this spirit, but in particular it’s the complex depth of flavour of the 2001 that we’re really proud of. We’re sure it will be a hit with even the most discerning whisky drinker.”

Staying true to the distinctive anCnoc style, the 2001 Vintage packaging mirrors the minimalist design of anCnoc’s core range and features the contemporary yet traditional illustration of the Knockdhu Distillery in ice blue foil.

The 2001 Vintage is available now from independent and specialist retailers at £55 RRP.

Notes

About anCnoc Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky

anCnoc Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky is part of the Inver House Distillers portfolio, and is produced at Knockdhu Distillery – established in 1894 and one of the smallest and most enchanting in the Scottish Highlands. It is renowned the world over by malt enthusiasts for bringing a contemporary twist to the traditions of fine malt whisky, producing a single malt that is accessible and versatile for all occasions. Cutter has been ranked in the Liquid Gold category of Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible 2016 with a score of 96.5 adding to anCnoc’s portfolio of award-winning expressions. Whiskies in this category are deemed by Jim Murray as “superstar whiskies that give us all a reason to live.”

About International Beverage

International Beverage Holdings (http://www.interbevgroup.com/) was established in 2005 as the international arm of ThaiBev, one of South East Asia’s leading alcohol beverage companies. With a network of regional offices in Asia, Europe and North America, the company is responsible for the production, sales, marketing and distribution of a portfolio of premium global brands in over 80 countries and territories.

Inver House Distillers (http://www.inverhouse.com/) is globally integrated into International Beverage Holdings and drives the distillation and maturation of Scotch through its five distilleries.

International Beverage brands include:

• Chang Beer: Thailand’s iconic beer brand
• Single Malt Scotch Whiskies: Old Pulteney, Balblair, anCnoc, Speyburn
• Blended Whiskies: Hankey Bannister
• Mekhong: ‘The Spirit of Thailand’ since 1941
• Caorunn – a small batch distilled Scottish Gin infused with 5 Celtic botanicals
• The company’s success is built on the combination of a strong understanding of local cultures and markets with the creation of a truly global operational network. Brand building pays respect to heritage, provenance and craftsmanship whilst delivering innovative and highly effective strategies at global level. A skilled and dedicated team of more than 12 nationalities speaking over 14 languages delivers the highest standards of customer service and attention to detail across all aspects of the business.

Elements of Islay: Peat – what lies beneath

Peat has always been a divisive subject among whisky drinkers. For every individual who craves that salty, smoky hit that peaty whisky provides, there’ll be another who shies away and heads for a gentler, fruitier dram. Well, peat haters should look away now, as this post is all about the latest release from Speciality Drinks’ Elements of Islay range: Peat.

The latest addition to the Elements of Islay range: Peat

We first wrote about Peat here, so without covering too much of the same ground, Peat is the first ongoing release in the Elements range and is a blended malt from a number of Islay distilleries.

I attended the official launch of Peat at Black Rock, an innovative new whisky bar in the City of London from top mixology team Thomas Aske and Tristan Stephenson. Black Rock’s unique feature is a six-metre English oak tree that runs virtually the length of the bar’s interior. The tree has been cut through the middle and hollowed out into two gulleys, lined with both American and Limousin oak, and filled with two frequently changing whisk(e)y blends.

Ten things about peat and smoke

Thomas at Black Rock knows a thing or two about whisky. He also knows plenty about peat and smoke, too. Here are 10 juicy facts he shared on the night:

‘Peat is made of plants that have died and been compacted in an acidic or water-driven environment’

‘The aroma of smoke indicates comfort; for me, it indicates the start of autumn and winter’

‘Peat is a fuel source, particularly in Scotland and Ireland, because there’s a limited amount of wood available to burn for fuel’

‘Humans started to use controlled fire about 250,000 years ago’

‘It takes about 50 blocks of peat to heat one household for a day’

‘A good peat cutter can create about 1,200 peat blocks a day. I’ve tried it and it’s bloody hard work!’

‘90% of peat cut today is used as fertiliser’

‘The closer to the surface you cut peat, the greater the characteristics of the plant matter; as you get lower, it becomes darker and heavier’

‘Peat doesn’t burn like coal; it has a carbon content of 60% so it burns very slowly, and at lower temperatures. It can burn and smoke at 40°C’

‘Malted barley can only take a certain amount of peat. There is a saturation point, after which coal is added to the fire to raise the temperature and fully dry out the barley’

What about the whisky itself? This is what I thought:

ELEMENTS OF ISLAY PEAT, 59.3%

Nose: Fresh and fruity at first, with notes of lemon and orange oil, joined by roasted almonds and dark chocolate and enveloped by layers of warming peat smoke. Water brings out more refreshing citrus notes.

Palate: Richly textured, with pear and melon and a sprinkling of black pepper and honeyed fruit. Again, the soft smoke arrives, with bonfire embers imparting a lovely warmth and character.

Finish: Clean and fruity, with the soft wood smoke lingering.

Comment: There’s a lot to like about this whisky. It doesn’t try too hard, and instead shows the things that Islay fans love: peat, smoke and fruit. I’m not sure that water improves this whisky, either; I think it’s pretty well balanced as it as, despite the high ABV.

Elements of Islay Peat is available to buy now from The Whisky Exchange website, priced at £34.95.

Glenglassaugh 51 Year Old – 1963

Distilled in 1963 single cask #3301, a bourbon barrel was filled 15th February 1963 and left to slumber for an incredible 51 years before being bottled in 2014. A stunning and historic release from Glenglassaugh distillery – each bottle has been hand numbered, is accompanied with a certificate of authenticity signed by Master Distiller Billy Walker and is housed in this beautiful hand crafted wooden presentation box. With the three distilleries The BenRiach Distillery Co Ltd now owns, Glenglassaugh has the oldest stock with some casks dating back to 1963. The oldest cask available from the distillery has been chosen for this very special release.  Distilled in 1963 single cask #3301, a bourbon barrel was filled 15th February 1963 and left to slumber for an incredible 51 years before being bottled in 2014. A stunning and historic release from Glenglassaugh distillery – each bottle has been hand numbered, is accompanied with a certificate of authenticity signed by Master Distiller Billy Walker and is housed in this beautiful hand crafted wooden presentation box.

£4750.00

EARLY APRIL TASTINGS

Steak & Whisky Tasting – 19 Greville St, Mon 4 Apr  More >

Burger & Chips Tasting – The Vaults, Fri 8 Apr  More >

Sheffield Preview Tasting – Leopold Hotel, Fri 8 Apr  More >

Cheese & Whisky Tasting – 28 Queen St, Sat 9 Apr  More >

Island Tasting & Dinner – 28 Queen St, Fri 15 Apr  More >

FREE EVENTS AT THE VAULTS

Sherry & wine Cask Lovers’ Theme Drop-in – Tue 19 Apr  More >

Browse All Events & Tastings >

The Scotch Malt Whisky Society, The Vaults, 87 Giles Street, Leith EH6 6BZ

Contact: sales@smws.com or call 0131 555 2929 (Mon-Fri 9am-4.45pm). Visit the Society at here for membership information

This is your chance to join and to take advantage of their great offers!

Spot the SMWS bottles in this amusing You Tube video

Glenlivet 24 Year Old Hand Filled Batch #1
Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky

BENROMACH DISTILLERY UNVEILS NEW LIMITED EDITION WOOD FINISH RELEASE 

The Benromach Distillery Company Ltd today unveils the latest expression to join their portfolio of Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Benromach Sassicaia Wood Finish.

The latest limited edition from the Forres based distillery offers whisky lovers a unique flavour profile, as a result of a final finishing period in Sassicaia wine casks from the renowned Bolgheri wine region.

Distilled in 2007 and initially matured in first fill bourbon barrels, Benromach Sassicaia Wood Finish (45% ABV) is a deep ruby red in colour, with notes of ripe berries, milk chocolate drops, and hints of ginger and cinnamon, complemented by a subtle sense of smoke.

The new release follows previous special edition Wood Finishes Benromach Hermitage 2005, Benromach Sassicaia 2006 and Château Cissac 2006.

Benromach Distillery Manager Keith Cruickshank said: “Here at Benromach we have an esteemed portfolio of single malt whisky. Our Wood Finish expressions allow us the opportunity to provide our customers with a special malt which is full of character, thanks to the final maturation period in casks from distinguished wine regions.

“The final finishing period in Sassicaia wine casks allows for an exceptional flavour profile to develop, full of summer fruits and soft spice.

“Fans of our Benromach 10 Years Old and 15 Years Old, which display the classic character of pre-1960’s Speyside single malt, will enjoy the chance to experience our whisky in a different way.”

Originally built in 1898, Benromach Distillery was revived when leading whisky specialists Gordon & MacPhail purchased it in 1993. The distillery was extensively re-equipped over a five-year period to create a Speyside single malt whisky in a classic pre 1960s style.

Benromach Sassicaia Wood Finish will be available to purchase from specialist whisky retailers at an RRP of £40.25 in the UK, with only 3,500 bottles released for sale worldwide. Prices may vary in overseas markets due to local taxes and duty.

For further information on Benromach, and to find out more about Benromach Wood Finishes, please visit www.benromach.com.                                                                   

Notes

Originally built in 1898, Benromach Distillery was brought back to life when leading whisky specialists Gordon & MacPhail purchased it in 1993. The distillery was extensively re-equipped over a five-year period before it was officially opened by HRH Prince Charles in 1998.

In reopening Benromach Distillery, Gordon & MacPhail decided to create a classic Speyside single malt – a style that draws its influence from Speyside whiskies pre-1960s.

Benromach Distillery is located on the outskirts of the ancient market town of Forres. A four-star visitor centre is open to the public throughout the year for tours and tastings. Benromach Distillery is a member of the world famous malt whisky trail.

Limited edition Authors’ Series now available to order!

Introducing 4 new and highly limited releases from the much coveted Authors’ series!

The Authors’ Series is a range of limited edition and exclusive single malt whiskies created by the prestigious blenders and bottlers, Hunter Laing Ltd. Each whisky has been paired with a famous author, ensuring that the unique taste and character of the malt has been inspired by the author’s life and work.

Each bottle is presented in a brown leather box, embossed with gold medallic text, which adds to the luxurious feel of the product. The bottles are also individually wax sealed with a stylish monogram design.

View the full range here.

LITTLEMILL 1988 AUTHOR’S SERIES GUSTAVE FLAUBERT

This 26 year old Littlemill is from the limited edition Authors Series where the finest whiskies are selected from rare single casks. This single malt whisky is limited to 137 bottles and has been bottled at a cask strength of 56% volume. Bottled in July 2015 from a refill hogshead. Distilled in November 1988. Littlemill distillery was closed and destroyed in 1996 and this sort of release is something to get the heart racing!

Whisky Shop Tasting Notes
Honeyed flavours combine with wood spice and a herbal and savoury quality, cobnuts and popcorn lead to a finish of over ripened fruits, peach stone, toasted cereals and poppy seed.

£574 Click to buy

SPRINGBANK 1997 AUTHORS’ SERIES ALEXANDRE DUMAS

Single cask Springbank is a rare commodity these days so to find an expression that tastes this good is a joy. This single malt whisky is limited to 96 bottles and has been bottled at a cask strength of 56.5% volume. Bottled in November 2015 from a refill hogshead and distilled in April 1997.

Whisky Shop Tasting Notes
Rich, dry and moody with a peaty/turfy edge balanced with dark chocolate, dried fruits and a rum like sweetness plus lovely smoky moments the finish has lots of charred oak and smoke with rich fudge and molasses adding sweetness. A great Springbank

£550 Buy Now

ALLT A BHAINNE 1993 AUTHORS’ SERIES MARK TWAIN

Introducing a stunning 22 year old Allt A Bhaine from the limited edition Authors Series featuring products selected from rare single casks. This single malt whisky is limited to 196 bottles and has been bottled at a cask strength of 53.9% volume. Bottled in October 2015 from a refill hogshead. Distilled in May 1993

Whisky Shop Tasting Notes
Classic Speyside style with buttery toffee, honeyed cereal bars and fresh fruits of yellow plum and sharon fruit, water adds a light creamy coffee touch, (think tiramisu), a finish of soft oak and a sticky syrupy sweetness.

 £274 Click to buy

BEN NEVIS 1996 AUTHORS’ SERIES LEO TOLSTOY

This 19 year old Ben Nevis from the limited edition Authors’ Series combines some of the finest sweet and fruity flavours we have tasted this year. This single malt whisky is limited to 255 bottles and has been bottled at a cask strength of 55.5% volume. Bottled in 2015 from a sherry butt.

Whisky Shop Tasting Notes
Rich with grassy and cereal flavours from the outset, becoming earthy and mossy, (more Ben Nevis traits). Citrus fruits and some nutty toffee lead us on to a pleasant okay finish with a touch of pistachio nut salt tang.

Click to buy £270

Criminal is a podcast about crime. Stories of people who’ve done wrong, been wronged, or gotten caught somewhere in the middle. They have just released an episode about Pappy Van Winkle (the grey market and the Buffalo Trace theft) and spoke with Julian and Preston Van Winkle, Michael Veach, and some very funny bartenders. You may listen to the podcast HERE or on iTunes

Springbank 21 Year Old – 1992

Campbeltown Single Malt Scotch Whisky Bartels Rawlings Int Ltd

Bottled under the Highland Laird label this rather rare Springbank was distilled 11th December 1992 and aged for 21 years. Presented in an engraved wooden box along with signed certificate, only 240 bottles were filled, with very little staying within the UK. Distilled 11th December 1992 this beautiful cask strength limited edition bottling of Springbank is presented in an engraved wooden box along with signed certificate. Bottled 1st August 2014 at cask strength with only 240 bottles filled from the cask. Very little of this Scotch whisky stayed within the UK.

£235.00

Glendronach 25 Year Old Grandeur Batch #7

$408

Glendronach 25 Year Old Grandeur Highland single malt Scotch whisky. Batch #007 matured in Oloroso sherry butts. Limited release of 1,180 numbered bottles.

A truly memorable and captivating GlenDronach expression.

Nose: An abundance of classic sherried fruits, rich damsons, dates and sweet plum juice infused with freshly sliced ginger and cracked black pepper. Softer notes of orange chocolate and walnut loaf add a delicate balance to the robust, dark sherry influences.

Palate: An elegant, vintage sherry style comprising of classic Mediterranean fruits, dark sundried raisins, dates and fig syrup infused with delicate chocolate fondant, roasted coffee and a dusting of ground almonds. A delightful combination of sophisticated warm oak spices, freshly cut ginger and gentle waves of caramelised orange gives a vibrant, crisp contrast to the traditional Highland sherry cask characteristics.

Finish: After a quarter of a century peacefully lying in our traditional dunnage warehouses, Master Blender Billy Walker has selected a combination of casks which truly encapsulate the rich history and heritage between the Highland character of GlenDronach and the finest Spanish Oloroso sherry casks.