The Quiet Splendor of Komagatake
Mars Komagatake 7 Year Old K&L Exclusive 1st Fill Ex-Bourbon Barrel #3740 Japanese Single Malt Whisky (700ml) ($179.99)
“An absolute winner by any measure that feels like a rapturous eye-opener to the potential of this wonderful little mountain distillery.” —David Othenin-Girard, K&L Spirits Buyer

Mars Shuzo is the quiet giant of Japanese whisky. The best kept secret in the whisky world are the two exceptional distilleries, Komagatake and Tsunuki. While both have been available on occasion in single malt form, they are almost never seen in the US as single casks, and typically a single barrel of either commands a significant premium. The company can trace its roots to the origins of Japanese whisky through their founder, Kiichiro Iwai. Just like Suntory, Hombo Shuzo was there from the start. It was in fact Iwai who enlisted Masataka Taketsuru to travel to Scotland in order to learn the age old techniques for making the worlds most complex whisky. Upon his return, Hombo was not able to construct the distillery, so Taketsuru-san took the plans to Suntory.

But in 1949, Kiichiro Iwai would complete his dream of building pot stills and distilling Hombos own malt whisky. And while Iwai-san represents one of the three pillars of Japanese whisky, their modern commitment to the category rests squarely on the shoulders of one great man, Kazuto Hombo. Hombo-san is a true lover of the finer things, and his love of whisky kept the wonderful old stills running. His belief that Japanese whisky would one day be a worldwide success is singularly connected to the construction of the Nagano plant where the original stills were moved, and while Hombo-san was ahead of his time, the plant would see very little production over the next 30 years. He was ready when the whisky boom began and production restarted in 2014.

Now Komagatake is making some of the world’s best whisky. Stylistically, the distillery offers an elegant and refined malt, but this single cask is truly superb. Peated to 20 ppm, you might expect something very smoky and forward, but instead you have an elegant, ultra complex expression of malt that is on par with the very finest available anywhere. Let’s dive in! One of the old single casks out there. The color is a shimmering yellow gold (0.5). The nose is an explosive mixture of maritime flavors and sweet orchard fruit: oyster shell, yuzu peel, galangal, creosote, white ash, pear preserves, licorice root, salted grilled lemons, and lanolin. The palate is razor sharp and chiseled, with a big citrus note and a strong saline character up front, followed by similar white ashy smoke, which does not dominate whatsoever the fresh, juicy fruit: greengage, apricot, green grapes. It absolutely adores water, softening the smoke and reminding me of a well matured, less tarry style Caol Ila. An absolute winner by any measure that feels like a rapturous eye-opener to the potential of this wonderful little mountain distillery.

— David Othenin-Girard, K&L Spirits Buyer

Mars Komagatake 7 Year Old K&L Exclusive 1st Fill Ex-Bourbon Barrel #3740 Japanese Single Malt Whisky (700ml) ($179.99)

This singular cask from Mars Komagatake offers a direct link to the origins of Japanese whisky and one of the category’s most important pioneering producers. Crafted by Hombo Shuzo, a family owned company founded in 1872, Mars traces its whisky lineage to the earliest era of malt distillation in Japan, long before Japanese whisky achieved global acclaim. Hombo was among the first producers to seriously pursue domestic malt whisky, helping establish the foundation of what would become a national tradition. The Komagatake distillery was founded in 1985 high in the Japanese Alps of Nagano, chosen for its pristine mountain water, cool climate, and dramatic seasonal temperature swings. These conditions proved ideal for maturation, allowing whiskies to develop remarkable depth and structure even at younger ages.

Like much of the industry, Komagatake experienced periods of dormancy during market downturns, but its revival in 2011 marked a pivotal moment in the modern resurgence of Japanese whisky. Today, Komagatake is widely regarded as the spiritual and technical heart of Mars, producing some of the most authentic and characterful single malts in the country. This single cask, bottled exclusively for K&L at natural cask strength and limited to just 160 bottles, is not only exceptionally rare but historically significant. As the very first Komagatake barrel selection in K&L’s history, it stands among the finest examples of Japanese whisky available anywhere in the world.

Email: wine@klwines.com
Phone: (877) KL-WINES (Toll Free 877.559.4637)
K&L Wine Merchants 3005 El Camino Real Redwood City, CA 94061 USA
San Francisco, Redwood City, Hollywood CA

We’re excited to share some big news! This autumn, we’re taking the in-person Diploma in Single Malt Whisky on the road with back-to-back courses in New York, Kentucky and London. From 7 World Trade Center with Moët Hennessy USA (26 & 27 October), to Moonshine University in the heart of bourbon country (29 & 30 October 2026), to WSET School London (3 & 4 November), it’s a triple header that truly reflects how far we’ve come with building a global whisky education community.

Early Bird booking is now open with a £200 saving until 19 June 2026.

Read the full announcement and all the details on our blog.

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ralfy review 1132 Extras – Some Old Whisky Bottles From Auctions.

The GlenAllachie adds to Masters of Wood series with Ex-Solera Sherry cask matured single malt

The GlenAllachie Distillery has unveiled the latest release in its award-winning Masters of Wood Series, a 19-year-old Ex-Solera Sherry Cask Matured Single Malt Whisky that celebrates exceptionally rare casks and long-term wood character.

The Masters of Wood Series showcases the influence of The GlenAllachie’s most unusual and scarce wood stocks. The series debuted in 2024 with a 17-year-old Mizunara Virgin Oak and Oloroso Sherry Cask Matured expression, which went on to be named Best Scotch Speyside Single Malt aged 13 to 20 years at the World Whiskies Awards 2026.

The second edition of the series, The GlenAllachie Masters of Wood 19-year-old Ex-Solera Sherry Cask Matured is a luxuriously complex single malt. Notes of brandied plums, mocha, cinnamon and dark cherries are woven through with ginger and The GlenAllachie’s signature heather honey, revealing a whisky of remarkable depth and a viscous, velvety texture.

In creating this expression, Master Distiller Billy Walker selected a small number of vintage casks that had previously held Pedro Ximénez and Oloroso sherry as part of their respective traditional solera ageing systems for more than 55 years, before being filled with The GlenAllachie spirit. Solera casks are an important part of a bodega’s operation and are seldom removed from the system, making them extremely difficult to acquire.

The solera method gradually blends younger and older sherries over many years, creating consistency and depth of flavour. Over five and a half decades of sherry maturation within this system, these casks absorbed intense layers of sherry character, developing notes of dried fruit and spice that remain within the oak. This depth of sherry influence continually shaped The GlenAllachie whisky during maturation, with slow oxidation occurring in parallel.

Master Distiller at The GlenAllachie, Billy Walker, commented:

“These are casks that already carried over half a century of sherry history before interacting with our spirit. You are working with time, memory and a structure that has been quietly evolving for decades.

“Over fifty years of experience in this industry has taught me where to look for casks of real distinction – from partners who, like us, refuse to compromise. The relationships built on that shared philosophy have given me the opportunity to work with some of the most intriguing and remarkable casks. This Masters of Wood release is one of the very finest examples of cask influence and stands among the most special projects of my career.”

The 19-year-old whisky developed notes of vanilla, caramel, honey, coconut and gentle spice from its initial maturation in American oak ex-bourbon barrels, before being transferred into the ex-solera sherry casks for secondary maturation. The Pedro Ximénez casks bring layers of fig, raisin and dark molasses sweetness, while the Oloroso casks add drier notes of walnut, dark chocolate and warming spice.

The packaging references the solera system through hand-illustrated detailing on the outer box, which is presented in a deep merlot tone intended to reflect the whisky’s natural hue development in cask.

Bottled at 50% ABV, with natural colour and without chill filtration, this release showcases The GlenAllachie’s signature sherried Speyside character, elevated through exceptional vintage casks and unparalleled wood management.

The GlenAllachie Masters of Wood: 19-year-old Ex-Solera Sherry Matured Single Malt Scotch Whisky is available now from The GlenAllachie Distillery and online at  www.glenallachie.com with a UK RRP of £224.99. It will become available globally in the coming weeks.

For more information, visit www.theglenallachie.com.

About The GlenAllachie Masters of Wood Ex-Solera Sherry Cask Matured Single Malt

ABV: 50%
RRP £224.99
Natural colour and non-chill filtered

Tasting notes:
COLOUR: Intense Mahogany.

NOSE: Brandied plum, intense mocha and honeycomb, with caramel snaps, molasses tart and rich cocoa.

TASTE: Plum syrup, treacle and warmed heather honey, followed by black cherries, mocha and brandied orchard fruits, with crystalised cinnamon and ginger.

About The GlenAllachie Distillery

One of Scotland’s few independently owned and managed distilleries, The GlenAllachie is led by industry veteran, Billy Walker, who boasts over a half-century’s tenure in whisky. With 16 on-site warehouses holding over 50,000 casks, The GlenAllachie Distillery have complete control of the end-to-end maturation process.

Since re-emerging under independent ownership in 2017, The GlenAllachie has made bold, strategic choices rooted in flavour integrity over volume. By fine-tuning fermentation practices, streamlining production, and investing heavily in cask management, the distillery has cultivated a house style renowned for depth, complexity, and individuality.

Beyond the stillhouse, The GlenAllachie’s influence continues to grow, with high-profile and innovative releases such as The Sinteis Series, and age-stated limited editions earning global acclaim. The distillery’s commitment to transparency – bottling at natural colour, non-chill filtered, and often at cask strength – underscores its dedication to the discerning whisky drinker.

Prioritising the production of quality spirit, the GlenAllachie Distillery chose to reduce its production capacity from four million to around one million litres of alcohol and increase its fermentation period to 160 hours – almost three times the industry standard – for an ester-rich, fruity spirit.

The GlenAllachie also maintains a strong focus on sustainability and provenance, with local sourcing and traditional methods guiding much of its ethos. Supported by the Scottish Industrial Energy Transformation Fund (SIETF), a state-of-the-art Mechanical Vapour Recompression (MVR) system was installed at the distillery to capture and recycle waste heat from distillation, using it to reheat the stills. The result is a distillery that not only honours Scotch whisky heritage but actively shapes its future.

About Billy Walker
With a career spanning over 50 years, Billy Walker is a legendary figure in the Scotch whisky industry, renowned for his transformative leadership of distilleries like Benriach, Glendronach, and Glenglassaugh. Celebrated for his innovative use of casks and unwavering commitment to quality, he is now the owner and Master Distiller at The GlenAllachie.

Under his stewardship, the company has achieved widespread acclaim. Among its many accolades, The GlenAllachie has claimed ‘World’s Best Single Malt’ at the World Whiskies Awards twice – in 2021 for the 10-year-old Cask Strength Batch 4, and in 2025 for the 12-year-old.

It’s from this incredible record of success that Billy has cemented his reputation as one of the most prominent whisky figures of his generation.

NEW | Little Book Chapter 10 – “All The Wiser”

Chapter 10 doesn’t just celebrate a decade of boundary-pushing blending but captures the evolution of one of American whiskey’s most innovative makers. After years of chasing precision and “perfect” blends, Freddie shifted his philosophy for this release. “All The Wiser” reflects a more intuitive approach, one that embraces the unpredictability of blending and allows the whiskey itself to lead. The result is a whiskey that feels more discovered than past releases.

This year’s blend draws from a spectrum of aged expressions across The James B. Beam Distilling Co. portfolio, including components finished in sherry and toasted bourbon casks.

SRP: $159.99.

NEW | Booker’s Bourbon Batch #1 2026 – “The Big Easy Batch”

The first Booker’s Bourbon Batch of 2026 is inspired by one of Booker Noe’s favorite cities in the world: New Orleans. It pays homage to a place Booker returned to time and again – for the food, the people, and the unforgettable flavors that stayed with him long after each visit.

This Batch is made up of five separate production dates and were stored in five different storage warehouses. The age is 7 years, 2 months and 15 days and bottled at a bold 129.1 proof. The result is a bourbon that’s big and unmistakably Booker’s, with aromas of vanilla and spice, a warm and robust palate, and a long, lingering finish.

SRP: $99.99.

TRIED & TRUE | Baker’s 13-Year-Old Bourbon

Baker’s 13-Year-Old Bourbon is named for Baker Beam, the truck-driving, motorcycle-riding, grandnephew of the legendary Jim Beam. With each bottle from a single barrel, Baker’s 13-Year-Old is unapologetically individual, like the man it was named for.

This liquid is distilled to a 107 proof and barreled and aged for a minimum of 13 years.

SRP: $149.99.

Iron Gate Announces Summer Fine Spirits Auction Opening June 15, 2026

Iron Gate Auctions will open its Summer Fine Spirits Auction on Monday, June 15, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. EDT, presenting collectors with an exceptional selection of rare and highly collectible spirits from some of the world’s most sought-after producers.

The timed auction runs through Monday, June 22, 2026, at 8:00 p.m. EDT. Featured highlights include the Ardbeg Double Barrel Single Cask Set, Yamazaki Hospitality 25 Year Old, Bowmore Hart Brothers Dynasty Decanter, and Benromach 68 Classic Speyside Aged 55 Years—bottlings recognized for rarity, age, provenance, and collector appeal.

“This auction brings together bottles that speak to true spirit collectors in Canada,” said Ajay Bhardwaj, Vice-President of Spirits at Iron Gate. “From bespoke Scotch whisky releases to exceptional Japanese whisky and “The Pappy Family”, the June sale offers whisky enthusiasts and collectors alike an opportunity to acquire bottles rarely seen in the Canadian market.”

Iron Gate is Canada’s dedicated fine spirits auction house, serving collectors with a focus on provenance. Bidders may register in advance and view the auction catalogue through Iron Gate’s online auction platform.

Please note that a buyer’s premium of 19.5% applies to this sale. The auction is operated under license by Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis and under the applicable Alberta auction license.

Auction Details
Event: Iron Gate Fine Whisky Auction
Start: June 15, 2026, 10:00 a.m. EDT
End: June 22, 2026, 8:00 p.m. EDT
Format: Timed online auction

About Iron Gate
Iron Gate provides fine wine and spirits auction services for collectors across Canada, combining specialist expertise with a commitment to provenance, trusted handling, and a seamless online bidding experience.

Spirits Contact
Ajay Bhardwaj, VP Spirits Iron Gate Auctions
Email: ajay@irongate.wine

Islay Through Independent Bottlers

Independent bottlers have long offered a different perspective on Islay whisky, uncovering rare casks and distinctive expressions beyond the distilleries’ core ranges. From smoky peat and coastal character to rich sherry influence and long-aged complexity, this selection showcases the many sides of the island’s unmistakable style.

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Bigger Badder John’s Northern Promise Cask Strength

Adam talks us through the brand new full proof version of the Strath’s very own Big Bad John’s Northern Promise whisky from Fermentorium at Phillips in Victoria BC. Order now via the link HERE 

For a Sherry Loving Palate:

Bowmore 15-Year-Old Sherry Oak Cask

Matured in hand-selected Oloroso Sherry and ex-Bourbon casks, with an Oloroso Sherry seasoned cask finish. Captures the elegance of our single malt, adding a layer of Sherry cask sweetness. Confidently rich, with natural smoke, and minerality alongside a woodier, sweeter, and fruitier finish. A showcase of masterful maturation, this deep and enigmatic 15-Year-Old Sherry Oak Cask beautifully reconciles its sweet and gently spicy persona.

43% ABV | SRP: $160

 The Classic:

Laphroaig 10-Year-Old

The original Laphroaig distilled following traditions laid down by Ian Hunter over 75 years ago. In making Laphroaig, malted barley is dried over a peat first. The smoke from this peat, found only on Islay, gives Laphroaig its vibrant, rich flavor. Those enjoying the 10-Year-Old will first notice the bold, smoky taste, followed by a hint of seaweed and a surprising sweetness. This full-bodied variant is the foundation of all Laphroaig expressions and has a long finish.

43% ABV | SRP: $60

Something Special:

Laphroaig 2025 Càirdeas: Lore Cask Strength

An expression marrying five favorite distinct casks, each with its own story to tell, the result is a non-chill filtered whisky with an intense flavor profile. It’s a journey from zesty, salty high notes to the warmth of spices, wood and pepper of Islay peat. Lore Cask Strength offers a true taste of Laphroaig with added depth and impact, putting an exciting twist on one of Laphroaig’s classic and well-loved whiskies.

59.6% ABV | SRP: $110

 A Treat to Savor:

Bärenjäger Honey Bourbon Liqueur

A uniquely rich whiskey liqueur that blends the authentic sweetness of 100% natural honey with smooth bourbon for a perfectly balanced finish. Where German craftsmanship meets American spirit, delivering the best of both worlds in every sip. Smooth enough to sip neat, bold enough to elevate cocktails, and just sweet enough to stand out.

 35% ABV | SRP: $35

JUNE 2026 AUCTION NOW LIVE!

Our June Auction is now live, featuring a stunning old school bottle of Lagavulin. Released in 1982, this expression formed part of The Ascot Malt Cellar series alongside Linkwood, Rosebank, Talisker and the blended malts Strathconon and Glenleven. Widely regarded as the forerunner to the highly acclaimed ‘Classic Malts’ range, the series paved the way for the iconic 16 Year Old Lagavulin that would later succeed this 12 Year Old expression. Bottlings of Lagavulin from this period are becoming increasingly scarce and this particular 12 Year Old is especially significant, representing the first official bottling released by the distillery, making it an important piece of Lagavulin’s history!

For many years, the coveted Manager’s Dram series was made available exclusively to employees of distilleries within what is now the Diageo portfolio. Released annually from a single distillery, each expression was selected by the distillery manager, who was entrusted with choosing the finest casks to create a limited-edition bottling presented at natural cask strength. Distilled at Caol Ila and matured for 15 years, this exceptional expression was bottled at cask strength in 1990. Widely regarded by collectors and enthusiasts as one of the finest releases in the Manager’s Dram series, it is often considered the crown jewel of the annual bottlings, celebrated for both its rarity and outstanding quality.

Distilled at Deanston Distillery in 1996, this single malt was matured in a single hogshead (Cask #603) before being bottled at natural cask strength in 2026 by Whisky Broker for their Creetown Distillers label. A limited release of just 203 bottles, this is a rare single-cask expression that showcases over three decades of maturation, offering collectors and enthusiasts the opportunity to acquire an exceptionally scarce bottling from this respected Highland distillery.

Distilled at Cragganmore Distillery and matured for 17 years, this Manager’s Dram was bottled at natural cask strength in 1992. As one of the earlier releases in the celebrated series, this bottling offers a rare opportunity to experience Cragganmore in its purest form. Combining an impressive age statement with the exclusivity synonymous with Manager’s Dram releases, it remains a highly desirable bottling.

These are only a few of the old, limited and collectable bottles featured in our June auction, 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 21^st June from 8pm BST.