K&L Exclusive Cask Trio: Supremely Rare, Age-Stated Islay Malts – Scotch Whisky News
Three Impeccably Rare, Old Single Malts from Redacted Bros.
“The source of these three special casks must remain a mystery, but I can say that it is from one of the excellent distilleries on the southern shores of the mystical Isle of Islay.”
— David Othenin-Girard, K&L Spirits Buyer
Scotch aficionados and collectors should hold onto their hats as we introduce a trio of spectacular, age-stated Islay single malt treasures from Redacted Bros. Composed of juice ranging from 29 years to 32 years old, these K&L Exclusive Casks are supremely collectible editions from one of our all-time favorite bottlers. There is no overstating the unbelievable quality and character on offer here, and considering the age statements on these casks, the pricing is nearly impossible to beat. As spirits buyer David Othenin-Girard observes, “Distillery bottlings from any of the three distilleries is this area would sell for ten- or twentyfold of what we’re charging. We’re not exactly certain where/how they were acquired, but sometimes it’s best not to ask too many questions.” Each offers a distinct and completely singular expression that can only come from a whisky in its golden years, and these three sublime examples are certainly in the “liquid gold” category. Highly limited quantities will require Scotch fanatics to strike while the iron is hot, so don’t delay.
*Pre-arrival items are expected to be available for shipment or pickup in May 2022.
David Othenin-Girard | K&L Spirits Buyer | Review Date: January 12, 2022
The source of these three special casks must remain a mystery, but I can say that it is from one of the excellent distilleries on the southern shores of the mystical isle of Islay. You can do the math. Distillery bottlings from any of the three distilleries in the area would sell for ten- to twentyfold of what we’re charging. We’re not exactly certain where/how they were acquired, but sometimes it’s best not to ask too many questions. This is the youngest of the three and was distilled on December 12th, 1991. There’s absolutely nothing like old, heavily-peated single malt scotch. The decades of aging polished the rugged edges of this rare gem. The nose has a purity of ocean character that cannot be achieved but from standing on the shores of the straights of Islay. The sweetness is astounding though, contrasting the decadent wafting smoke. It’s really very difficult to describe. Ozone, limestone, lemon, salt, gun smoke, kastuoboshi, diesel engine, orange oil, olive oil, olive leaves, and beeswax. On the palate, texture and richness with plenty of zesty citrus oil and smoldering, old fire pit. It’s just absolutely lovely. Don’t regret not buying plenty of this if you can manage it.
David Othenin-Girard | K&L Spirits Buyer | Review Date: January 12, 2022
The source of these three special casks must remain a mystery, but I can say that it is from one of the excellent distilleries on the southern shores of the mystical Isle of Islay. You can do the math. Distillery bottlings from any of the three distilleries in the area would sell for ten- to twentyfold of what we’re charging. We’re not exactly certain where/how they were acquired, but sometimes it’s best not to ask too many questions. The middle sibling was distilled on November 20th, 1990. This one is distinct from the briny olive nose that the younger one exhibits. Instead, more fresh green peat, tobacco leaf, salted pears, algae-covered old wood, stony beach, old kirsch. On the palate, it has plenty of leather, sweet lemon, rich smoldering underbrush, sage oil, and tobacco again. Altogether magical, but less oceanic and salty, more earthy and savory.
David Othenin-Girard | K&L Spirits Buyer | Review Date: January 12, 2022
The source of these three special casks must remain a mystery, but I can say that it is from one of the excellent distilleries on the southern shores of the mystical Isle of Islay. You can do the math. Distillery bottlings from any of the three distilleries in the area would sell for ten- to twentyfold of what we’re charging. We’re not exactly certain where/how they were acquired, but sometimes it’s best not to ask too many questions. This is the big daddy of the three casks. Distilled on November 15th of 1989. This one is the cleanest and most linear of the three casks. Sweet lemon rind, very clean white ashy smoke, salted plums. Vibrant, zesty, salty, and clean (comparatively) on the palate with a long, sweet citrus finish and a pure, lifted white smoke that lingers for ages. This is the easiest to love of the three and reminds me more of Ardbeg than Laphroaig, but many who taste all three will likely prefer this excellent whisky because it’s so friendly and open.
