Archive for 2024

Bimber Distillery Unveils First Age Statement Single Malt Whiskies – English Whisky News

Bimber celebrates milestone with the launch of first age statement single malt whiskies

 Bimber Distillery today announced a landmark release in its admired collection of London single malt whiskies, with the upcoming launch of its first-ever age statement expressions. ‘Harmony of Eight’ and ‘Bimber 8 year old Single Cask Edition’ mark an exciting new chapter for Bimber, reflecting eight years of dedication to traditional whisky-making methods, artistry and an unwavering commitment to quality.

The Harmony of Eight will be available via the Bimber website on the 5th December and with an RRP of £130. The release of 1,090 bottles has been crafted through a fully artisanal process that includes single-farm barley, floor malting at Warminster Maltings, 7-day open-topped fermentation, and distillation in directly fired copper pot stills. Matured in a combination of ex-bourbon and Pedro Ximénez sherry casks, it offers a vibrant and fruit-forward profile that is reflective of 8 years of careful maturation.

Alongside and limited to just 268 bottles, the Bimber 8 Year Old – Single Cask Edition is a tribute to Bimber’s craft and its dedicated following. Similarly crafted using fully traditional methods, this single cask release has been fully matured in an American oak ex-bourbon cask and showcases the depth and maturity of Bimber’s London single malt after eight years of careful aging and was selected by the 2024 Bimber Klub Tasting Panel. It will be available exclusively for Bimber members and will also be launched on the 4th December at a price of £160.

These two releases mark a significant milestone for the distillery, symbolising the culmination of years of meticulous craftsmanship, patience, and dedication to traditional whisky-making methods. They reflect both time and commitment and they showcase not only the depth of character that has developed over eight years but also the distillery’s continued evolution. These age-statement whiskies are a celebration of Bimber’s journey and a testament to the artistry and care poured into every cask, solidifying its reputation as a leading light in craft whisky production.

Speaking of the launch of Harmony of Eight and Bimber 8 year old Single Cask Edition, Bimber Director Ewelina Chruszczyk said: “We are immensely proud to introduce our first age statement whiskies – a reflection of eight years of passion, precision, and unwavering dedication to our craft. These releases are more than just a measure of time; they embody the journey we’ve taken, the challenges we’ve overcome, and the bright future that lies ahead for Bimber.”

Harmony of Eight

Aged 8 years

No. of bottles 1090

70CL / 50% abv

Nose: Fresh, ripe strawberries and raspberries sit alongside meringue, whilst mango and pineapple join gingerbread men and an assortment of gummy sweets.

Palate: Supple and immaculately integrated. Berry and tropical fruit salad is topped with drizzled melted chocolate, nougat pieces and chopped hazelnuts. Oak spice follows – gently piquant and adding uplifting cinnamon and a peppery bite.

Finish: Lingering fruit sweetness married perfectly with enduring oak and fading spices.

Bimber 8 year old – Single Cask Edition

Aged 8 years / Ex-Bourbon Cask Ref. 11

No. of bottles 268

70CL / 56.8% abv

Nose: Rich and inviting with pineapple, dried apricots and aromas of resinous pine. Jamaican ginger cake, treacle sponge and a spice rack of nutmeg, clove and cinnamon join a light herbaceous note of eucalyptus.

Palate: Full-bodied and decadent with big chocolate, roasted cereals and caramel. Dark wood notes and brown sugars sit alongside cinnamon dusted doughnut balls, whilst bold notes of liquorice and join almonds, hazelnuts, crème caramel and vanilla pods.

Finish: An indulgent finish that lingers beautifully. French toast served with black tea, cinnamon crunch cereal and lingering apricot with a late minty note.

 

AboutBimber

Founded in 2015, Bimber Distillery produces world-class single malt whisky, handcrafted with passion in West London. Our traditionally-focussed approach to whisky creation combines the finest ingredients with heritage production methods that are rarely seen today and an absolute commitment to quality. Our detailed approach has seen us recognised as a leading light in whisky production and garnered multiple industry awards. Producing a wide array of fruit-forward, textural single malts we deliver the ultimate craft whisky experience to a rapidly growing global community of Bimber whisky lovers.

www.bimberdistillery.co.uk

Click Whisky Auctions December 2024 AUCTION WELL UNDERWAY! – Auction Whisky News

AUCTION WELL UNDERWAY!

With the auction well on its way, it’s a good time to take a closer look at a few of the bottlings on offer. Released between 2001 to 2004, Ardbeg’s wonderfully-aged vintage expressions were produced in small batches like this lovely 1977 example.

Staying in that awesome era of the 1970’s, have a look at this little gem. Distilled in 1971 at the now closed Montrose distillery Glen Esk, aged for 31 years, drawn from a single Cask and then bottled at natural Cask strength by Douglas Laing in 2001 for their prestigious Old Malt Cask range.

One of only 246 bottles produced.

Distilled in 1970 at the closed Hillside Distillery, then bottled around 1995/96 at natural Cask strength, this is an excellent example of the highly regarded Rare Malts range.

We have sixteen Manager’s Drams in this month’s auction, including these three little beauties! For this range, the distillery manager is tasked to choose the finest casks from a distillery to produce this yearly malt which is then bottled at Cask strength in limited numbers.

These are only a few of the fascinating bottles in our December auction, we have much more to enjoy, including bottles from many of your other favourite distilleries. To view more wee gems visit clickwhiskyauctions.com. Register to bid. Remember, you’ve got to be in it to win it! Auction ends Sunday 15th December from 8pm GMT.

Duncan Taylor Octave Holyrood 2021 Inverurie Whisky Shop Exclusive – Scotch Whisky News

Specially selected by the Inverurie Whisky Shop, this is our third collaboration with the Octave range from Duncan Taylor.  Only 99 bottles are available. The Octave Holyrood has aged for 3 years in oak casks then spent the final 3 months in an octave cask. This is a limited release of only 99 bottles of sherried goodness, bottled at a cask strength of 55.1%.

The Octave range is where the finest whiskies have a final maturation in reconstructed ex sherry octave casks, the spirit is invigorated by the increased wood contact in the smaller casks, bringing you a spectacular dram

Cask Type: Sherrywood Octave

Cask Number: 12143803

Limited: 99 Bottles

Distilled: 2021 Bottled: 2024

Tasting Notes:

Nose: Freshly baked Ginger sponge, eucalyptus and orange peel

Palate: Ginger cake again, with orange zest and malty, sherried sweetness. White pepper, rye spices and nutmeg, with other dry Christmas spices of cinnamon.

Finish: Toasted Oak, dry, orange peel and a lasting ginger spice.

55.1% ABV

70cl

Duncan Taylor Octave Holyrood
2021 Octave
Inverurie Whisky Shop Exclusive
£74.99

The Macallan Gift Guide – Scotch Whisky News

This is the season to celebrate the moments we share with our loved ones.Whether given as a gift, or to share together on a special occasion, we have curated a collection of The Macallan single malt whiskies and accessories that will celebrate the moment, as we reflect on the past and toast to the future.

 EXPLORE THE GIFT GUIDE

The Whisky Cellar Girvan 34 Years Old – Aberdeen Whisky Shop News

The Whisky Cellar Girvan 

34 Years Old

This single-grain whisky was distilled in December 1989 at the Girvan Distillery, one of the largest distilleries in Scotland, located in Ayrshire. It was aged for 34 years in a single-refill bourbon barrel. Expect notes of sweet Bosc pears, coconut, grilled pineapple, demerara sugar, grapefruit and oak spice – a true holiday.  Bottled by The Whisky Cellar at natural cask strength, without chill filtration or artificial colouring.

Shop now

Decadent Drinks FREE USA SHIPPING ON ALL ORDERS! – Scotch Whisky News

FREE USA SHIPPING ON ALL ORDERS

OVER £400

Until 31th December

Need an excuse to stock up? 🎁 Starting next week, we’re offering free USA shipping on orders over £400 from Nov 11th – Dec 31st!

Check out these gems—recently reviewed and still in stock—and grab them with free shipping while it lasts. Just use code HOLIDAYSHIP at checkout, and start planning that festive stash!

Chivas Regal Brings A Smooth And Smoky Twist To Its Extra Range With New Extra Smoky Cask Selection – Scotch Whisky News

Chivas Regal Brings A Smooth And Smoky Twist To Its Extra Range With New Extra Smoky Cask Selection

Chivas Regal Extra Smoky Cask Selection is the latest expression to be released from the iconic blended Scotch, combining the richness of the traditional Chivas Regal house style with the gentle taste of smooth smoke. Launching exclusively in Turkey before being rolled out globally, this new blend has been selectively finished in smoky whisky casks previously housing peated whisky, bringing additional depth and flavour to the renowned Chivas Regal Extra range.

Smoky casks have always been an integral part of the Chivas Regal blend, but previously these notes were very subtle on the palate. Chivas Regal Extra Smoky Cask Selection takes these notes to a new level, further elevating the smoky flavours and delivering a more distinctive smoky character to the smooth, deep flavours of the blend. The new expression features rich notes of spiced apples and roasted chestnuts on the nose, with fresh cranberries, sweet caramel, and gingerbread on the palate – finished with star anise and a warming touch of bonfire smoke.

Sandy Hyslop, Chivas Regal Master Blender, comments:

“With a focus on quality and a spirit of innovation, we are always seeking to elevate the experience for the modern whisky drinker – and Chivas Regal Extra Smoky Cask Selection does just that. By driving the idea of adding ‘extra’ flavour to our whiskies through new and exciting extra cask finishes, we are responding to consumer demand and exploring new flavour profiles in Scotch. The deep and rich notes in our latest expression bring a new and sophisticated edge to the Chivas Regal Extra range, offering whisky lovers a smooth and smoky tasting experience.”

The primary focus on flavour within the Chivas Regal Extra range sets it apart from other products in the Chivas Regal portfolio, reflecting the adventurous tastes of today’s drinkers. The launch of Chivas Regal Extra Smoky Cask Selection is supported by a range of easy-to-make-at-home cocktail recipes including Smoky Espresso and Smoky Basil Smash, providing consumers with a modern Scotch whisky taste experience. These innovative cocktails are crafted to enhance the versatility of the smoky blend, offering whisky enthusiasts a fresh and exciting way to experience Chivas Regal. Whether it’s a smoky twist on a classic cocktail or a completely new creation, these serves make it simple for consumers to explore and enjoy the distinct character of Chivas Regal Extra Smoky Cask Selection in a unique way. This initiative not only caters to the growing consumer demand for new flavour profiles in Scotch but also opens up new and engaging drinks experiences, making sophisticated whisky cocktails accessible to all.

The packaging of Chivas Regal Extra Smoky Cask Selection is specifically designed to reflect the smoky hues of the blend, featuring charcoal colouring and golden flowing lines throughout. These elements are intertwined with the classic Chivas Regal shield and crossed spears, symbolising protection and loyalty, reflecting the brotherhood of James and John Chivas, whose entrepreneurial spirit set the groundwork for the world’s first luxury whisky.

Chivas Regal Extra Smoky Cask Selection joins four other unique expressions in the Chivas Regal Extra range, each carefully crafted with a distinct flavour profile imparted from casks such as Irish Whiskey, Tequila, Rum and Oloroso Sherry.

Chivas Regal Extra Smoky Cask Selection launches exclusively in Turkey this November before being rolled out globally.  For more information, and to stay up to date with all the latest Chivas news, visit www.Chivas.com or follow us on X  @ChivasRegal

The Harris Journal: A Warm Winter Glow – Scotch Whisky News

The winter winds are blowing cold and hard across Harris but we’re still feeling the warm glow from last week’s Scottish Whisky Distillery Of The Year award. Once again, we thank you for following our story and sharing in the success as you help our purpose-driven island enterprise succeed with every bottle you buy.

The fuzzy feelings continue as the festive season rolls on, especially with the Christmas lights in our village being lit and the distillery halls being brightly decked, both inside and out. Behind the scenes work continues and our Outer Hebridean island elves are busy bringing bottles of The Hearach whisky good (grown up) girls and boys across the world.

If you’re nearby, come in from the cold and enjoy a blazing fire, mulled gin and mince pies while you shop at the distillery. And, if you’re further afield let us deliver to your door with free shipping throughout December alongside complimentary gift messaging on selected gift sets. The last order date this year is the 17th!

Scroll on for more news, and have a great weekend from all of us here in Harris!

Le gach deagh dhùrachd,

Mike Donald, Chief Storyteller

VISIT OUR ONLINE STORE

FIND OUR WHISKY NEAR YOU

We recently gave a warm Harris welcome to the team from the Scotch Malt Whisky Society as they travelled to our distillery to fill three special casks for future collaborations.

They also brought with them their iconic green bottles to hold the first of their trio of SMWS limited single cask releases made with our island spirit.

On December 2nd this Distillery 163 – “Smokin’!” bottling went on sale to members (and sold out) and their ever-interesting tasting notes were:

“Descriptors for the aroma came fast and furious – gravadlax sauce, beech-smoked trout, black peppercorn-infused rye whisky and homemade sweet ploughman’s pickle. The taste was like smoked brisket pastrami prepared in a brine of pink curing salt, sugar and spices, alongside mild goat’s cheese on Jamaican gingerbread – intrigued? You should be! And what a change after the addition of water. Initially we stayed in the Caribbean with a warm Jamaican-style coffee and walnut cake followed by the sweet scent of cherry wood-smoked marshmallows. On the palate, we now found a mixture between a smoked battenberg cake and tiramisu with smoked cocoa powder.”

We’ll share a short film in the coming weeks but meantime, please read about their visit, our proud partnership, and the successes of our distillery’s purpose-led enterprise via the link below…

READ “HERE’S TO HARRIS”

Don’t just take our word for it, whisky writers and reviewers love our dram as much as we do.

“Surprisingly smoky, deep, nicotine and marmalade evoking, complete work, subject to first-fill Bourbon, Oloroso and Fino. Spoiler alert: it’s tremendous.”  – Douglas Blyde, Evening Standard

“It’s an absolute cracker: coastal, saline, wonderfully smoky and sweet all at the same time.” – Neil Ridley, whisky writer

“Soft vanilla fudge, faintly floral and with a texture as soft as a Gaelic song – very moreish!” – Charlie MacLean, whisky legend.

Elegant, complex and full of character, it’s also safe to say our first historic single malt is designed for drinking. Share a bottle with friends and family this season…

ORDER THE HEARACH SINGLE MALT

The second expression of our whisky-making brings plenty of warmth to the proceedings this season, thanks to its connections to southern Spain. The Oloroso First Fill Cask Matured single malt draws wonderfully rich, bold, and aromatic flavours from sherry butts sourced from this special region of Andalusia.

The results bring a fine array of winter spices and woodsmoke to the dram, alongside festive notes like cloves, dried oranges and white chocolate. If you’re looking for something which captures a sense of an island Christmas, the one’s for you and yours…

ORDER THE HEARACH OLOROSO CASK

 

SPRINGBANK LAUNCH EVENT DEC 18th, 2024 – Decadent Drinks News

On the 18th of December, at Drinkmonger in Bruntsfield, Edinburgh, at 7.45pm, we’ll be hosting a relaxed and informal ‘mini-festival’ to celebrate this very busy year and to launch Whiskyland Chapter Seven, a beautiful 2nd fill sherry hogshead of 1994 Springbank.

This won’t be a typical sit-down tasting, instead, we’ll have a range of recent (and possibly quite long sold out) Decadent Drinks bottlings available to taste on stands and we’ll have the new Springbank and our Equinox & Solstice Winter Edition available to taste too.

Those two bottlings will also be available to buy from Drinkmonger, for the first time, before they go on public sale a few days later.

It also means you won’t have to listen to Angus waffling on at length about all manner of nonsense (well, you might have to listen to a bit of that). So, if you are going to be in the neighbourhood, then buy a ticket, come along, taste some delicious drinks and help us celebrate the closing of a very busy and fun year.

GET YOUR TICKET NOW

🎁 The Ultimate Whisky Gift Guide is Here! – Scotch Whisky News

 

Our Ultimate Whisky Gift Guide 2024

Searching for the ideal gift for the whisky lover in your life? Look no further. Our Ultimate Whisky Gift Guide 2024 has everything you need—from thoughtful tokens to show-stopping masterpieces.

Explore by budget:

• Whisky Gifts Under £50: Bold flavours, perfect for whisky explorers.
• Whisky Wonders Under £100: Unique finishes that impress every time.
• Luxury Gifts Under £150: Sophistication and depth for connoisseurs.
• The Ultimate Gifts Over £150: Rare, aged whiskies for unforgettable moments.

From accessible treasures to indulgent masterpieces, you’re guaranteed to find a bottle they’ll love.

READ MORE


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