We’ve got a good-sized Malt Messenger for you here, but perhaps not as big as it could have been. It is also a little later than hoped, but that couldn’t be avoided. Things have been busy at the ol’ KWM homestead, mostly with some behind the scenes projects that will help to streamline our growing business as we transition into the post-Covid era and the long promised “new normal.”

I’m sure a lot of you are wondering about in-store tastings, and when they might resume. Originally we had hoped to start rolling out some events after Easter, but that was before the Dodge Ramming of our front entrance, and the complications that have come from it. They say never say never, and while it is possible that we may be able to offer a limited number of sit down tastings in May or June, we can’t be sure of that right now.

One thing that is for sure, is we have a 30th Anniversary coming up in 5 short weeks and regardless of the upheaval, we are going to celebrate. We are planning a month of events, both ticketed and drop in, including some Wine and Whisky Festivals. More to come on that and our 30th Anniversary in general, in the next Malt Messenger.

There are lots of cool new things in-store, and even more arriving soon. We have new whiskies from Archives, Two Brewers, High Coast, Doc Swinson’s Bourbon Collection, and James Eadie. We also have some returned and ballot bottles from Glengoyne and GlenDronach.

The list of soon-to-arrive whiskies below from Benromach and Gordon & MacPhail is just the tip of the iceberg. It has been a quiet couple of months on the ‘new whiskies’ front, but that is about to change. We are also expecting a shipment of Signatory and Edradour whiskies in the next couple of weeks.

In addition to loads of new whiskies, we are eagerly anticipating a number of new KWM Exclusive Casks from Benromach, Bruichladdich, Daftmill, GlenAllachie, and Tomatin. We also have a stunning bespoke new Compass Box 30th Anniversary Blended Malt, which we created with James Saxon and John Glaser. More on these exciting new exclusives in future Malt Messengers.

As always, in the event of a discrepancy in price, the point of sale at KWM will be taken as correct. Please don’t hesitate to email me with any questions, comments, or requests (but online ordering works too, in fact, it might be faster…).

Sincerely,

Andrew Ferguson

Kensington Wine Market

1. New Archives and Whiskybase Whiskies

2. Two Brewers Release 31

3. New Whiskies from High Coast Distillery

4. Introducing: Doc Swinson’s Collection Bourbons

5. Glengoyne 21 & 25 Years Are Back

6. GlenDronach 12 & 15 Year Are Back

7. Coming Soon from Benromach

8. Coming Soon from Gordon & MacPhail

9. Introducing: James Eadie Trade Mark X

10.                Upcoming Tastings

11.                On Sale

New Archives & Whiskybase Whiskies

Archives is an independent bottling range from Whiskybase, famous for its bottlings featuring old illustrations of fish, snakes, and other animals. There is some really cool stuff here, and it is very limited. Don’t be surprised if more than a few of these end up in future tastings.

1. Archives Balcones 2017 – This 3 year old American single malt was distilled at the Balcones Distillery in Texas in 2017, was matured in a first-fill American oak barrel, before bottling in 2021 at 62.9%. Bottled under the Venomous Snakes range, the label features an Elaps Corallinus “drawn by L.J. Fitzinger in 1867 and published over 150 years ago in “Naturgeschichte der Wirbelthiere.” 87.7pts Whiskybase – $165 – SOLD OUT

2. Archives Benrinnes 1997 – Distilled in 1997, matured in a Hogshead cask, and bottled in 2021 after 23 years at 56%, under the Fishes of Samoa range. The image on the label is a Pterois Radiata “drawn by Hamburg L. Friederichsen and published in 1873 in “Journal des Museum Godeffroy.” 90pts Whiskybase – $350

3. Archives Burnside 1996 – Bottled under the Brittish Dragonflies series, this 25 year old “Blended Malt” was distilled in 1996, matured in a Hogshead and bottled in 2021 at 54.7%. Burnside is usually a euphemism for teaspooned Balvenie. So Balvenie with a dash of Glenfiddich perhaps? The label features a Uropetala Carovei “drawn by G.V. Hudson and published over 100 years ago in “An elementary manuel of New Zealand entomology.” 89.59pts Whisky Base. – $295

4. Archives Caol Ila 2007 – Distilled in 2007, this 12 year old Caol Ila matured in a Hogshead before bottling at 57.4%. Bottled under the Fishes of Samoa series the fish on the label is a Diodon Hystrix “published over 200 years ago in Unterhaltungen aus der Naturgeschichte: Der Fische.” 85.89pts Whiskybase – $190

5. Archives Glen Moray 2007 – Bottled under the Fishes of Samoa series, this 13 year old Glen Moray was distilled in 2007, matured in an ex-Bourbon barrel, and bottled in 2021 at 58.8%. The label features Chactodon Aureus “published in 1813 in The naturalist’s miscellany, or Coloured figures of natural objects.” 87pts Whiskybase – $150

6. Whiskybase Glentauchers – Bottled to celebrate the Whiskybase database hitting 180,000 bottles. Distilled in 1996, matured in an ex-Bourbon barrel, and bottled in 2021 at 46.8%. 88.68pts Whiskybase – $370

7. Archives Glentauchers 1989 – This 31 year old Glentauchers was distilled in 1989, matured in an ex-Bourbon Barrel, and bottled in 2021 at 43.7%. Bottled under “The Fishes of Samoa” the label features a Pterois Volitans “drawn by P.A.J. Drapier and published in 1853 in “Dictionaire classique des sciences naturelles.” 90pts Whiskybase – $585

8. Archives Irish Single Malt 1990 – This 31 year old Irish Single Malt Whiskey was distilled in 1990, matured in an ex-Bourbon Barrel and bottled in 2021 at 52.9%. Bottled under “The Fishes of Samoa” the label features a Acarauna Major Pinnis Crmutus “drawn by Mark Catesby and published in 1771 in “Histoire naturelle de la Caroline, de la Floride, et des Isles e Bahama.” – $740

9. Archives Linkwood 2008 – Bottled under “The Fishes of Samoa” this 13 year was distilled in 2008 and filled into a Hogshead cask before bottling in 2021 at 56.3%. The label features a “Zeus Faber drawn by Kruger JR and published in 1785 in “Histoire naturelle, generale et particuliere des poissons.” 86.67pts Whisky Base – $165

10. Archives Secret Speyside 1998 – Distilled in 1998 at “a Speyside Distillery,” this 21 year old single malt was bottled at 54% under the Fishes of Samoa series after maturing in a Hogshead cask. The label features a Pennant coralfish “drawn by P. Blecker and published over 100 years aog in “Blecker Atlas ichthyologique.” 87.83pts Whiskybase – $262

11. Archives Speyside 1990 – Distilled in 1990, the whisky matured 30 years in a Hogshead cask before bottling at 50.2% under the Echinoderms from Australia series. The label features an Asterias Rubens “drawn by Ernst Haeckel and published over 100 years ago in Kunstformen der Natur.” 88.86pts Whiskybase – $425

12.  Archives Staoisha 2013 – Distilled in 2013, this peated Bunnahabhain (Staoisha) was filled into an ex-Bourbon Barrel, before bottling in 2021 at 59.1%. Bottled under the Fishes of Samoa series, the label features a Herniochus monoceros “drawn by G. H Ford and published in 1873 in Journal de Museum Godeffroy. – $148

New Two Brewers Release 31

The 31st release of Yukon Single Malt Whisky by Two Brewers is a Classic profile whisky, composed of a number of different mashes, including a sour mash (7%), standard mashes (40%), priming batches (23%) and “not tails” batches (30%). More info on this can be found on our website. Matured in first and second fill casks as well as virgin oak.

Two Brewers Yukon Single Malt Release 31 – 46% – Producer Tasting Note: “Earthy underpinnings support a bright nose, nutty cereal and dark berries. Creamy clover honey tracks from entry, centered as tones of green tea and cedar encompass the palate. Dry grains and oak emerge for the finish, touched by the enduring honey.” – $105

New Whiskies from High Coast Distillery

We have three new whiskies from Sweden’s High Coast Distillery coming in. One is a general release, the two others are Truth Malters bottlings

1. High Coast Solera Single Malt Whisky – 56% – 500ml – ex-Bourbon & Swedish Oak Solera – Producer Tasting Note: “Nose: Oak, nutmeg, vanilla, coconut, ripe pear. Palate: Honey, clove, anis seeds, fudge, green apples. Finish: Vanilla, black pepper.” – $195

2. High Coast Cigar CLASS Series 02 Peated Bourbon – 60.9% – 6 Years 9.75 Months – Peated to 55ppm – 500ml – Producer Tasting Note: “Nose: Beautiful rich peat notes – iodine, vanilla, fresh tangy apples, floral notes, wet wood, petrichor. Palate: Sweeter than most would expect. Honey and soft florals timely intermingle with herbal notes bursting on the palate. Finish: Gentle and long with welcomed floral and wood notes and a soft palate oiliness.” $185

3. High Coast Sherry CLASS Series 02 Oloroso Sherry – 62.7% – 6 Years 3 Months – Oloroso Sherry – 500ml – Producer Tasting Note: “Nose:  A rich auburn Oloroso Sherry bomb. Maple taffy, creamy butter, sweet dark cherries, sticky figs, vanilla, and cherry candy. Classic notes of golden raisins, nuts and cloves play in the background. Palate: Less sweet than the nose and an immediate flavour rush on your tongue. Zesty cinnamon, dried apricots, raisins, vanilla, baking spices, sauna wood, and a hint of orange marmalade. Finish: Long and mouth forward – drying on the tongue but juicy behind your lips and around the cheeks. Crawls on the glass with serious legs and character. $192

Introducing: Doc Swinson’s Collection Bourbon

With warehousing and blending done in Ferndale, Washington, Doc Swinson’s is an NDP (Non-Distiller Producer) that specializes in sourcing Bourbon and Rye Whiskies that are then blended into small (sometimes very small) batches and released under one of three ranges. The bottlings are categorized under Doc Swinson’s Flagship, Exploratory, or Rare Release range. Like many independent bottlers of American Whiskey, the venerable MGP Distillery of Indiana seems to be a key component in many of Doc Swinson’s releases.

1. Doc Swinson’s Alter Ego Bourbon – THREE different cask types are used in finishing this Bourbon. Each batch in Doc Swinson’s Alter Ego Bourbon series thus far has used MGP Distillery’s 75% Corn, 21% Rye, 4% Malted Barley mash bill that is aged then finished in a combination of PX Sherry, Oloroso Sherry, and Cognac casks. After finishing the batch is married together in ex-Cognac Foeders before being bottled at 47.9%. – $108

2. Doc Swinson’s Alter Ego Solera Rye – Made from MGP Distillery Rye – and that is a good thing! Doc Swinson’s has started with the exceptional MGP 95% Rye mash bill and blended it together with MGP’s 51% Rye mash bill. Both components are at least five years old before being married into the top row of the Solera system made from casks that previously held rum. The result is a unique take on an American Rye that went south to get a tan and enjoy a Planter’s Punch or three! – $77

3. Doc Swinson’s Blender’s Cut Bourbon – This high-proof Bourbon from Doc Swinson’s is a blend of two high-rye mash bills originally distilled at MGP Distillery of Indiana. The mash bills in question contain 21% and 36% Rye, respectively. The whiskey made is aged for five years before being bottled at a very respectable 57.5%. – $85

4. Doc Swinson’s El Cuerpo Bourbon – Made from barrels of at least 5-year-old Bourbon sourced from MGP Distillery of Indiana before being finished in PX Sherry Butts. The resulting whiskey is bottled at 57% and released in very small batches. – $130

Glengoyne 21 & 25 Year Are Back

But Limited!

I remember a few years back when we could have almost as much of these as we wanted. The secret is out on Glengoyne it seems, with both the 21 and 25 year olds expected to be in short supply in the years ahead. The 21 year is available for purchase, 1 per customer. The 25 year is available by ballot, details below.

1. Glengoyne 21 Year – Formerly the oldest whisky in the distillery’s core range, it is heavily influenced by sherry, matured entirely in first and refill European oak seasoned with sherry. Big, rich and sophisticated malt, bottled at 43%. – $240 – Limit 1 Per Customer!

2. Glengoyne 25 Year – The price has gone up, albeit only a little, especially when compared with the 25 year olds of other distilleries. Bottled at 48%, the whisky is 100% Sherry Oak Matured! – $535 – Available by Ballot

Enter the Ballot Glengoyne 25 &GlenDronach 15

GlenDronach 12 & 15 Year Are Back

But Limited!

It has been at least two years since we last saw the GlenDronach 12 in Alberta. It seems the legal dispute that was tying it up has finally been resolved. We have been getting small allocations of the GlenDronach 15, but they have been limited. The last time we had some we required purchasers to also buy another BenRiach or GlenDronach whisky along with it. We won’t be doing that this time, however, demand will almost certainly exceed supply, so like the Glengoyne 25 year, it will be available by ballot.

1. GlenDronach Original 12 Year – 43% – Producer Tasting Note: “Nose: Sweet, creamy vanilla, with hints of ginger. Spiced mulled wine and pear. Palate: Rich, creamy, silky-smooth. Warm, rich oak and sherry sweetness, full mouth feel, raisins and soft fruits. Spicy with medium length and a dry finish. Conclusion: Long, full and firm, slightly nutty.” – $105 – Limit 1 Per Customer

2. GlenDronach Revival 15 Year – 46% – Producer Tasting Note: “Nose: An intoxicating burst of maraschino cherry, ripe bramble and dark chocolate mint with hints of orange bitters and walnut liqueur. Palate: Honey-glazed apricot and ripe fig with a crescendo of black cherry, angelica and muscovado. Long and enveloping finish with dark manuka honey, herbal bitters and dark chocolate.” – $155 – Available by Ballot!

Enter the Ballot Glengoyne 25 & GlenDronach 15

Coming Soon from Benromach

We have a trio of new releases from Benromach, all of them limited, and accordingly restricted to 1 per customer. ETA is 1-2 weeks!

1. Benromach Contrasts Peat Smoke Sherry Matured 2012 – 46% – Producer Tasting Note: “Aromas: Appealing cinnamon and ginger aromas with rich dark chocolate giving way to soft demerara sugar. Seville orange peel with sweet smoke. Palate: Cocoa powder and sweet, creamy honeycomb accompany stewed red berries. Subtle vanilla and cracked black pepper lead to toasted almonds. Finish: A full finish with Morello cherry, peat smoke and sweetness.” – $95.99 – Limit 1 Per Customer!

2. Benromach Heritage 1977 – We are trying to confirm exactly which one, as there are at least 2 different releases. Regardless, this is a bit of a special treat, as it has been sold out for years, and was discovered by chance in a warehouse… – $2750 – Only 1 Bottle!

3. Benromach Aged 40 Years – 57.1% – First Fill Oloroso Sherry – Producer Tasting Note: “Aromas: Vibrant citrus aromas with ginger, stewed fruits & cinnamon and subtle dark fudge aromas. Rich beeswax polish notes develop with a touch of aged oak. Palate: Intense Seville orange flavours give way to red apple with underlying spices. Demerara sugar and a soft herbal flavour lead to charred oak. Finish: Medium-bodied, citrus zest and oak.” – $2850 – Limit 1 Per Customer!

Coming Soon from Gordon & MacPhail

There are a lot of cool new offerings from Gordon McPhail, including the first two, both Glenlivet released to celebrate the launch of the Generations Glenlivet 80 Year, which we will be rolling out later this month…

There are a few more Glenlivet in the so called “Runway” range, but we are holding a few of them back for a future event.

We have 9 other new releases from the Connoisseurs Choice and Private Collection ranges. All are cask strength with the exception of the “Wood Finished” Caol Ila.

Quantities are limited with just 3-6 bottles of most coming to KWM. Accordingly, many are limited to 1 per customer, and are indicated as such below!

1. G&M CC Runway Glenlivet 2004 – 46% – 16 Year – Refill Bourbon Barrel – Producer Tasting Note: “Nose: Vibrant tropical fruit and ripe green apples give way to bitter orange. Honeysuckle come to the fore alongside cocoa powder and subtle white pepper. Taste: Rich pineapple and mango accompany flambeed banana. Poached pears develop alongside rich watermelon and toasted oak. Finish: A medium finish with lingering marzipan and citrus”- $199

2. G&M CC Runway Glenlivet 2003 – 46% – 17 Year Refill Bourbon Barrel – Producer Tasting Note: “Nose: Pineapple and Seville orange zest give way to subtle nuts. Undertones of lemon peel develop accompanied by baked apples and honeycomb. Taste: Smooth, sweet pears lead to grapefruit and soft white pepper. Subtle white chocolate notes transform into a faint herbal edge and charred oak. Finish: A full finish with long lasting vanilla pod and citrus. – $240

3. G&M CC Runway Glenlivet 1993 – 53.1% – 28 Year – Refill American Hogshead #71580 – Producer Tasting Note: “Nose: Rich honey aromas combine with lime peel and roasted nuts. Taste: Flavours of black pepper lead to tropical fruit and butterscotch. Finish: A medium-bodied finish with lingering citrus. – $479.99 – 89.33pts Whiskybase

4. G&M CC Wood Finish Caol Ila 2007 Hermitage – 45% – 13 Year – Matured in Refill Bourbon / Finished 3 Years in Hermitage Casks – Producer Tasting Note: “Nose: Fruitcake and cherry aromas combine with sweet smoke. Taste: Cured meat flavours are balanced by summer berries and almond. Finish: A medium bodied finish with lingering bonfire embers.” – $158

5. G&M CC Caol Ila 1997 – 59.9% – 23 Year – First Fill Sherry Butt – Producer Tasting Note: “Nose: Cured meat aromas lead to baked apple and stewed raisins. Festive spices develop alongside brown sugar and soft lemon peel. Taste: Smooth and smoke; black pepper gives way to mixed nuts and cocoa powder. Subtle citrus notes combine with toasted almonds and red berries. Finish: A long and ashy finish with lingering bonfire embers. “- $335

6. G&M CC Highland Park 1988 – 52.8% – 32 Year – Refill American Oak Hogshead – Producer Tasting Note: “Nose: Crystalized violets and soft coconut give way to hints of cured meat. White chocolate comes to the fore, followed by subtle notes of bonfire embers. Taste: Sweet and smooth flavours of red apple and malted biscuit. Rich vanilla develops alongside dried banana pieces and light citrus zest. Finish: A medium-bodied finish with lingering soft fruit and smoke.” – $1300 – Limit 1 Per Customer!

7. G&M CC Linkwood 1988 – 55% – 32 Year – First Fill Sherry Butt – Producer Tasting Note: “Nose: Rich stewed fruit aromas combine with fresh ginger leading to a hint of beeswax polish. Taste: Blackcurrant and raspberry flavours give way to soft dried tobacco notes and mature oak. Finish: A medium-bodied finish with lingering spice and grapefruit zest. – $1319 – 91.71pts Whiskybase

8. G&M CC Mortlach 1989 – 54.2% – Refill Sherry Butt Cask 5304 – Producer Tasting Note: “Nose: Rich brown sugar and stewed apples lead to glacé cherries and raisins alongside a subtle touch of honey and ginger. Taste: Dark honey and almond flavours lead to raisins, warm ginger and lingering fruit loaf. Finish: A light and delicate finish with soft cherries and toasted almonds.” – $1300 – Limit 1 Per Customer

9. G&M Private Collection Convalmore 1975 – 47.9% – 45 Year – Hogshead – Producer Tasting Note: “Nose: Citrus aromas, lemon and lime compliment sweet desiccated coconut. White chocolate notes develop alongside soft dark honey and nougat. Taste: Sweet honeycomb flavours combine with soft apple crumble. Finish: Vibrant fruity pears and peaches give way to mature oak and lingering toasted hazelnuts.” – $2900 – Limit 1 Per Customer – 93.5pts Whiskybase

10. G&M Private Collection Glentauchers 1979 – 56.6% – 41 Year – Refill American Hogshead – Producer Tasting Note: “Nose: Sweet toffee and candied orange aromas with silky white chocolate and sugared violets. Tropical fruit notes come to the fore with hints of coconut and ripe banana. A nutty note lingers in the background. Taste: Intense sweetness to begin then fading to reveal herbal aniseed and peppery notes. Dried tropical fruit; pineapple, lime, and coconut flavours complement madagascan vanilla pod. Finish: Rounded, with lingering vanilla tones with an herbal edge.” – $1850 – 90.67pts Whiskybase

11.  G&M Private Collection Pulteney 1982 – 57.1% – 38 Year – Refill American Hogshead – Producer Tasting Note: “Nose: S Rich honey aromas combine with sweet lime zest and vanilla. Taste: Subtle apple notes lead to a hint of fudge. Sweet flavours of honeydew melon and lemon are accompanied by soft white pepper. Finish: Medium bodied finish, smooth with toasted oak.” – $1840

Introducing: James Eaddie Tade Mark X

Trade Mark X is a Blended Scotch Whisky, created by Rupert Patrick, James Eadie’s great-great grandson, based on the recipe in old ledgers and in comparison with a surviving bottle from the 1940s. The blend includes among other things, whisky from two closed distilleries Littlemill and Cambus. The blend is also composed of whiskies from Talisker, Caol Ila, Lagavulin, Aberlour, and Glendronach.

James Eadie Trade Mark X II – 45.6% – Producer Tasting Note: “Nose: At first, sweet notes of icing sugar and raisins are present, before oily, lightly peated qualities emerge; soot, soft earth and freshly cut hay. Over time, a combination of dark chocolate, sultanas, prunes, marzipan and subtle hints of chili and salt come to the fore. Palate: Spicy flavours of mint chocolate blend in with syrup, plums, prunes and roasted coffee beans. Gentle peat and soft smoke linger in the background, which introduce a delicious juicy quality. Water brings out thick, rich cream and ripe dark cherries. Finish: The finish is long, syrupy and gently spicy, gradually softening to leave subtle, distinctive stone fruit flavours.” – $72

Upcoming Tastings

Note: we just got word that William H Macy will be a special guest at our Woody Creek tasting on April 5… which is tonight… only 4 sample sets left!

WOODY CREEK DISTILLERY TASTING

·     Date: Tuesday, April 5

·     Time: 8 PM

·     Cost: $25

·     Pick-Up Date: Ready Now!

What’s the deal with Woody Creek Distillery? Besides being plugged shamelessly by the star of Shameless himself – William H. Macy (who will make an appearance during the tasting) – they also make some darn good whiskey! Join us for a run through their lineup including a gin, two Rye and three Bourbon samples from this Colorado Distillery. See what all the hype is about for only 25 bucks!

NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK: SCOTCH EDITION

·     Date: Thursday, April 14

·     Time: 7 PM

·     Cost: $40

·     Pick-Up Date: Ready Now!

The Scotch Whisky industry has gone through something of a baby boom over the last decade. Step by Step, the whiskies from these new kids on the block are coming of age. Though young, the whiskies from these small independents are Hangin’ Tough in a market dominated by big multinationals. We’ll sample whiskies from Ardnamurchan, Daftmill, Glasgow, Inchdairnie, Isle of Raasay, Lindores Abbey, and Wolfburn. Thursday, April 24, 2022, 7PM.

G&M Distillery Labels with Richard Urquhart

·     Date: Friday, May 6

·     Time: 5 PM

·     Cost: $45

·     Pick-Up Date: Ready Now!

·     Only 15 Spots Left!

The Gordon & MacPhail Distillery Labels range celebrates the ancient relationships it has nurtured with distilleries all over Scotland. It is also a testament to its ongoing practice of purchasing new make spirit from distilleries, rather than mature whisky, and maturing it in its own casks. Richard Urquhart, a 4th generation member of the Urquhart family who own G&M, will guide us through a range of 7 distilleries label bottlings from Ardmore, Glenburgie, Glentauchers, Linkwood and Morltach, including a few 21 and 25 year olds. Friday May 6, 5PM.

Rethinking Whisky: The Lowlands

·     Date: Friday, May 6

·     Time: 5 PM

·     Cost: $45

·     Pick-Up Date: Ready Now!

While we couldn’t convince Andrew to pop the top on a rare old Rosebank for this one, we’re still pretty confident this will be the coolest Lowlands tasting this side of the pond. And if you’re one of those folks still of the opinion that the Lowlands are all flowers and lemons and triple distillation – oh, my! – then we have just the range to shatter your preconceptions. Join Curt and Harmony for a night of ‘out there’ whiskies and an awful lot of chat, as we try to dispel some outdated myths and showcase some of the bottles that have lit us up over the last few months. Participants will sample whiskies up to 35 years of age from Auchentoshan, Bladnoch, Daftmill, Glenkinchie, Inchdairnie, Lindores Abbey and North British. Thursday May 26, 7PM.

!!!On Sale!!!

Deals, deals, deals… especially on Waterford, and more than what I have highlighted below too… you can browse the full sale list online!

1. Waterford Single Farm Hook Head 1.1 – 50% – Complex young Irish single malt produced from barley grown on a single farm, matured in a mix of cask types. – Was $101.99 – Save 20% – Now $76.49

2. Waterford Single Farm Lakefield 1.1 – 50% – Complex young Irish single malt produced from barley grown on a single farm, matured in a mix of cask types. – Was $102.99 – Save 20% – Now $77.24

3. Compass Box Peat Monster – 46% – The Peat Monster combines extremely smoky malt whisky from Islay with medium-peated Highland whiskies to create a balanced and approachable monster, but a monster, nonetheless. Enjoy! – Was $79.99 – Save 25% – Now $55.99

4. Smokehead Rum Rebel Islay Single Malt – 46% – This undisclosed Islay Single Malt is rumoured to come from Ardbeg, and has been finished in rum casks. – Was $92 – Save 20% – Now $72.79

5. Smokehead Sherry Bomb Islay Single Malt – This undisclosed Islay Single Malt is rumoured to come from Ardbeg, and has been finished in sherry casks. – Was $115 – Save 20% – Now $91.99

6. Lismore The Legend 21 Year – 43% – Undisclosed Speyside single malt, from the owners of Glenfarclas, with a soft sherried character. – Was $165 – Save 20% – Now $131.99

7. Jura Seven Wood – 42% – Not content with double wood or triple wood, Jura has gone right to SEVEN WOOD with this bottling. – Was $121.99 – Save 35% – Now $79.29

8. Port Askaig 8 Year – 45.8% – Young, but lovely Caol Ila at a great every day price… even better on SALE. – Was $68.99 – Save 20% – Now $55.19

9. Cragganmore Distillers Edition – 40% (boo) Diageo is still playing catch up, so this is still on sale. – Was $107.99 – Save 25% – Now $80.99

10.    Cragganmore Flavour Led – 55.7% – Old NAS Cragganmore with good reviews that is a lot more palatable on sale than at full price! – Was $1199.99 – Save 30% – Now $839.99

FREE DELIVERY

We are proud to offer Free City Wide Delivery on all orders over $100 Monday-Friday!

Orders under $100 are subject to a flat rate $10 delivery fee.

Note we likely cannot offer delivery before Christmas at this point!

CURBSIDE PICKUP

Physical distancing is made easy with curbside pickup.

Order online or by phone, wait for confirmation your order is ready then call us when you are parked in the back or out front.

Be sure to let us know what your vehicle looks like!

403-283-8000

888-283-9004

Regular Store Hours

Mon – Wed 10AM – 8PM

Thurs & Fri 10AM – 9PM

Sat 10AM – 8 PM

Sun 11PM to 6PM

*All Prices Quoted here are subject to change and do not include GST. In the case of pricing discrepancies, the price at our point of sale will be taken as correct.*

 

We couldn’t be more proud to announce that we have received an outstanding gold medal and gold medal at the International Wine & Spirits Competition 2022. Our 12 Year Old was marked an extraordinary 98/100, which earned an outstanding gold medal.

Lemon zest, toffee apples – and a scent of coconut. Hand-selected sherry casks help create this paradise of flavours and rich, golden colour. It’s the taste of Scotland’s slowest distillation, and our insistence on barley dried by air – never peat.

SHOP OUR 12 YEAR OLD

The Glengoyne 30 Year Old was also successful this year, with a score of 95/100, earning a gold medal. Intense sherry trifle – the rich complexity of cinnamon, cloves and tangy marmalade. Matured in hand-selected sherry casks of exceptional character, this is the taste of 30 years, held in a single dram. It was an honour to win not just one, but two prestigious gold awards this year.

VIEW OUR 30 YEAR OLD

We are so proud to share that Umiki Whisky is awarded with ‘’2’’ medals in 2022!

Osaka, JAPAN, 21th March 2022

Umiki Whisky is awarded with “DOUBLE GOLD” Medal and ‘’Whisky of the Year 2022’’ at the WWSA (Women’s Wine & Spirits Awards) which is the World’s most important wine & spirit competition judged by women Buyers.

About.Umiki Whisky

“Ocean Fused Whisky From The Heart of Japanese Pine”

UMIKI is “World’s first Japanese Pine barrel aged” and “World’s first ocean water fused whisky brand” that uses only renewable water source for blending” This sustainable process brings an exceptional smoothness with sea-breeze on the nose, rounded floral taste on the palate and a soothing freshness in the finish to UMIKI.

For further information please visit: www.umikiwhisky.com

About Women’s Wine & Spirits Awards

World’s most influential Female Buyers and Hoteliers Judge the Women’s Wine & Spirits Awards – the Most Important Wine & Spirits Awards Judged by Women Buyers.

For further information please visit www.wineawards.org

About Yoshino Spirits Co.

Yoshino Spirits (headquarters located in Osaka) is a private company exporting finest whisky, wine and spirits brands from Japan to the world placing the highest priority on building relationships of trust between
domestic manufacturers and customers all over the world.

For more information, please visit www.yoshinospirits.com

Indulge with the world’s finest whiskies and spirits at the Nth Ultimate Whisky and Spirits Experience in Las Vegas

April 22 -23, 2022 Wynn Hotel Las Vegas

The Universal Whisky Experience 2022

Take your experience into the stratosphere with our incredible High Roller Experience – the absolute zenith in luxury whisky encounters.

• Exclusive High Roller Super Pours

• Exclusive Master Classes

• 1-on-1 meetings with industry legends, whisky & spirit ambassadors, and distillers

• Access to the exclusive High Roller lounge

• High Roller dinner reception

• Entry into the High Roller raffle draw

Grand main tasting experience with over 70 exhibitors

• And so much more!

FULL LIST

Take a peek at our Our Exclusive

High Roller Master Classes: 

The Dalmore and Jura – Experience – Hosted by legendary master blender aka “The Nose” Richard Paterson and USA national brand ambassador Craig Bridgers.

The Macallan Experience – A journey into the world’s ultimate luxury Single Malt, led by Kieron Elliott.

Bhakta Spirits – Raj Bhakta founder of this company and America whisky legend with take your through some of the rarest and oldest Armagnac’s in the world.

Irish Distillers – The master Blender from Midleton’s will taste your through some amazing Irish gems from this legendary distiller

PURCHASE TICKETS

SPEYSIDE DISTILLER SCOOPS THREE GOLD AWARDS AT INTERNATIONAL SPIRITS COMPETITION 

— Benromach Distillery receives a suite of Gold awards at the 2022 International Wine & Spirit Competition —

Benromach Distillery has recorded an incredible result at this year’s International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC) by scooping three Gold award wins for its handmade single malt scotch whiskies.

IWSC, which sets an international benchmark for quality and recognises the very best wines and spirits available globally, presented Benromach Organic, Benromach 15 Year Old and Benromach 10 Year Old with Gold awards.

Benromach Organic from the distillery’s Contrasts range is the world’s first certified organic single malt whisky. Matured in Virgin American Oak, it gives sweet, malty notes with creamy pepper, banana, coffee and cocoa flavours.

After maturing in first fill bourbon and sherry casks, Benromach 15 Year Old delivers cracked pepper, charred oak, apples, dark chocolate and forest fruits flavours with rich sherry notes and a touch of smoke.

Benromach’s signature 10 Year Old single malt delivers delicate forest fruits and creamy malt, a touch of smoke and rich, lasting sherry notes, after also maturing in the finest first fill bourbon and sherry casks.

Keith Cruickshank, Distillery Manager at Benromach Distillery, said: “Every expression produced by Benromach Distillery is made by hand for genuine character by our small team of distillers who rely exclusively on their expertise and senses. To bring home three Gold accolades from the IWSC awards is a true reflection of the hard work and dedication that goes into producing our distinctive Speyside single malts.”

The International Wine & Spirit Competition was founded by chemist Anton Massel and has recently celebrated its 50^th Anniversary.

For further information or to purchase, please visit www.benromach.com

TASTING NOTES

Benromach Organic is non-chill-filtered and is bottled at 46% ABV

• Aromas: Sweet vanilla and ripe fruits accompany citrus zest. Toasted malt leads to green apples
• Palate: Creamy with soft pepper and butterscotch. Freshly ground coffee develop alongside dried banana and a subtle herbal edge
• Finish: Medium bodied and long with aniseed and cocoa powder
• Maturation: Matured in Virgin American Oak

Benromach 15 Year Old is bottled at 43% ABV

• Aromas: Aromas of sweet toffee leading to notes of cracked black pepper and peat smoke. Rich forest fruits develop with dark chocolate and dried banana
• Palate: Creamy and sweet with ripe apples and an undertone of charred oak. Dark chocolate develops and leads to toasted malt and orange peel with a subtle hint of smoke
• Finish: Medium creamy finish with soft smoke and dried fruit
• Maturation: Matured in first-fill ex-sherry and ex-bourbon casks

Benromach 10 Year Old is bottled at 43% ABV

• Aromas: Sweet green apple and pear complement creamy dark honey. Soft vanilla develops alongside gentle smoke
• Palate: Smooth flavours of malted cereal and stewed fruit combine with warm toffee and a hint of black cherry
• Finish: Full bodied finish with malted cereal and soft smoke
• Maturation: Matured in first-fill ex-sherry and ex-bourbon casks 

About Benromach Distillery

Originally built in 1898, Benromach Distillery was brought back to life when the Urquhart family realised a lifelong dream to own a distillery and purchased it in 1993. The distillery was extensively re-equipped over a five-year period before it was officially opened by HRH The Duke of Rothesay in 1998.

In reopening Benromach Distillery, the Urquhart family wanted to create a single malt whisky that has a classic Speyside character: beautifully balanced with a light touch of smoke.

Benromach Distillery is located on the outskirts of the ancient market town of Forres. A five-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.

For more information, visit: www.benromach.com

We are so proud to share that KAMIKI – “THE FIRST WHISKY BRAND IN THE WORLD WITH JAPANESE CEDAR CASK FINISH” is awarded with 2 new Medals in 2022!

Osaka, JAPAN, 21th March 2022, Kamiki Original Blended Malt Whisky is awarded with ‘’GOLD’’ Medal from Los Angeles Invitational Wine & Spirits Challenge and Kamiki Intense was awarded “BEST WORLD WHISKY-II” at Roma Whisky Festival.

About Kamiki Whisky

“THE FIRST WHISKY BRAND IN THE WORLD WITH JAPANESE CEDAR CASK FINISH”

Kamiki is a new expression super premium Japanese Whisky with a unique second maturation technique, blend is rested for a second time in Yoshino Sugi –Japanese Cedarcasks to capture a perfectly smooth taste, a scent of sandalwood on the nose and a zest of green tea in the finish.

For further information please visit www.kamikiwhisky.com

About Los Angeles Invitational Wine & Spirits Challenge

The Los Angeles Invitational Wine & Spirits Challenge was established, in conjunction with LA beverage professionals to highlight the best of the best wine & spirits producers in the world. The mission is to introduce those elite producers to the Southern California market of consumers, one of the largest in the country. Winning producers will be featured in a robust LA Times promotional campaign targeting wine, spirits and food enthusiasts in the LA region. Media Sponsor is Los Angeles Times

For further information please visit: https://lainvitational.com

Important message about Maltstock 2022

I’m afraid some not so relaxed news has reached us. As you all know there’s currently a war going on. This has led to millions of people seeking a safe place to stay. With gladness we see countries all over Europe welcoming the refugees offering them safe harbor. Government in the Netherlands is seeking suitable accommodation for them throughout the country. It makes us feel proud that the Maltstock venue (Het Buitencentrum) is opening its doors and welcoming refugees. The relaxed thing to do.

Unfortunately, this also means that all bookings at Het Buitencentrum have been cancelled until at least 31 October. So there will be no Maltstock this year. And yes, this is of course very disappointing. Especially now we seem to have left the worst part of Covid behind us. But offering all those people, who had to flee from their country because of a war, a place where they can hopefully feel just a little bit relaxed is so, so much more important.

We were so looking forward to seeing you all again and enjoy a very relaxed Maltstock weekend. And we will. Next year. Dates are 08- 10 September 2023.

There’s also a slight chance we might move Maltstock to a different venue this year. But we haven’t had time yet to check and see what is possible. If anyone has a good suggestion, please do let us know.
But for now, sadly no Maltstock as we know it this year. Please put 08 – 10 September 2023 in your agenda!

We all really hope that the world will be a much more relaxed place again soon, with no more war! Our thoughts are with all those that have lost their lives, their family, their friends, their homes.

Thank you all for understanding and hope we can share a relaxed dram together soon!

Relaxed greetings

Bob, Klaas, Stan & Teun

BUFFALO TRACE NAMED THE AMERICAN

DISTILLER OF THE YEAR BY WHISKY MAGAZINE

Seven Buffalo Trace Distillery Whiskeys Receive American World Whiskies Awards 

FRANKFORT, Franklin County, Ky (March 2, 2022) –The Icons of Whisky America by Whisky Magazine named Buffalo Trace Distillery the 2022 Distiller of the Year. This award, which the competition described as “the most coveted of the Icons awards” was bestowed at a virtual presentation held Feb. 8.

The Distillery’s Visitor Services General Manager, Matt Higgins was highly commended for the 2022 Visitor Attraction Manager of the Year. The magazine also announced the 2022 American World Whiskies Awards, honoring seven of Buffalo Trace’s whiskeys, including Sazerac Rye, which was named a Category Winner.

Medals were awarded as follows:

Gold:

• Colonel E.H. Taylor, Jr. Straight Rye Whiskey

Silver:

• L. Weller Special Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
• L. Weller 12 Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
• L. Weller C.Y.P.B Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
• L. Weller Full Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

Bronze:

• Colonel E.H. Taylor, Jr. Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

“Our focus has always been on producing the very best whiskeys at every step of the process. Being named Distiller of the Year is a great honor, and tells us we are doing something right,” Master Distiller Harlen Wheatley said. “We are making huge investments so we can continue increasing our bourbon production while maintaining our uncompromising standards for quality.”

With demand for its whiskeys maxing out operations at the National Historic Landmark distillery, Buffalo Trace is undergoing a $1.2 billion expansion to make more whiskey. This expansion includes creating a second, duplicate stillhouse which will allow Buffalo Trace to double its whiskey production. New warehouses which each hold 58,800 barrels are being constructed at a rate of one every four months on the Distillery’s adjacent farm property. The Distillery also converted an old warehouse into an additional dry house, is building its own wastewater treatment plant, and more.

Whiskies in each category of the World Whiskies Awards were subject to blind tastings in a three-round judging process to reward and promote the world’s best whiskies to consumers and trade across the globe.  The winners from the World Whiskies Awards and the Icons of Whisky Awards America 2022 will now compete with counterparts from all over the world, and global winners will be announced March 24 in London. For more information about the World Whiskies Awards visit www.worldwhiskiesawards.com, and for more information about the Icons of Whisky visit www.iconsofwhisky.com

About Buffalo Trace Distillery

Buffalo Trace Distillery is an American family-owned company based in Frankfort, Franklin County, Kentucky. The Distillery’s rich tradition dates back to 1775 and includes such legends as E.H. Taylor, Jr., George T. Stagg, Albert B. Blanton, Orville Schupp, and Elmer T. Lee.  Buffalo Trace Distillery is a fully operational Distillery producing bourbon, rye and vodka on site and is a National Historic Landmark as well as is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Distillery has won 35 distillery titles since 2000 from such notable publications as Whisky Magazine, Whisky Advocate Magazine and Wine Enthusiast Magazine. Its George T. Stagg was named World Whiskey of the Year for 2022 and its Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye was named 2^nd Finest Whiskey in the World for 2022.   Buffalo Trace Distillery has also garnered more than 1,000 awards for its wide range of premium whiskies. To learn more about Buffalo Trace Distillery visit www.buffalotracedistillery.com.

Kensington Wine Market’s E-Whisky Newsletter

I am sure I am not alone in feeling as though I’ve been riding a rollercoaster of emotions over the last 4 weeks, helplessly watching the horrors inflicted on Ukraine and its people. I personally feel anger towards Putin’s vile regime and the Russian military for their unjust and barbaric invasion. I feel great sorrow for the people of Ukraine and those of Ukrainian descent, for the tragic loss of life and the deliberate and unnecessary destruction of their homes, communities, culture, and institutions. But I’ve also felt pride and hope for the people of Ukraine and their leader, who have fought harder and more valiantly in protecting their fledgling democracy than anyone could have predicted. 

We have hung a Ukrainian flag above our entrance to show solidarity with their struggle, and on the subject of Russian vodka, I’d like to point out we haven’t carried any in at least the last decade… 

There is only so much we can do to help, but we want to help. Accordingly, we have decided to donate 10% of our total sales (both in-store and online) today, Saturday, March 26, to the UNHCR Ukraine Emergency fund. 

It is our sincere hope that the war ends soon, that Ukraine and its people emerge strong and independent, and that the world helps it rebuild!

In the meantime, I’ve included the tastings currently open for registration, as well as the sale items listed in the last newsletter.

As always, in the event of a discrepancy in price, the point of sale at KWM will be taken as correct. Please don’t hesitate to email me with any questions, comments, or requests (but online ordering works too, in fact, it might be faster…).

 

Sincerely,

Andrew Ferguson

Kensington Wine Market

Upcoming Tastings

Note: we just got word that William H Macy will be a special guest at our Woody Creek tasting on April 5…

SMWS

·     Date: Thursday, April 14

·     Time: 7 PM

·     Cost: $40

·     Pick-Up Date: Ready now!

·     Only 11 spots left!

Join the KWM Whisky Team for the April 2022 SMWS Canada Outturn tasting. Follow along as Evan and Andrew taste and talk about the whiskies, possibly wandering on to tangentially related things, while Cam tries to keep them on course. 7 whiskies included 15ml samples. Wednesday, April 6, 7PM.

NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK: SCOTCH EDITION

·     Date: Thursday, April 14

·     Time: 7 PM

·     Cost: $40

·     Pick-Up Date: Ready Now!

The Scotch Whisky industry has gone through something of a baby boom over the last decade. Step by Step, the whiskies from these new kids on the block are coming of age. Though young, the whiskies from these small independents are Hangin’ Tough in a market dominated by big multinationals. We’ll sample whiskies from Ardnamurchan, Daftmill, Glasgow, Inchdairnie, Isle of Raasay, Lindores Abbey, and Wolfburn. Thursday, April 24, 2022, 7PM.

G&M Distillery Labels with Richard Urquhart

·     Date: Friday, May 6

·     Time: 5 PM

·     Cost: $45

·     Pick-Up Date: ETA: Ready late-March!

The Gordon & MacPhail Distillery Labels range celebrates the ancient relationships it has nurtured with distilleries all over Scotland. It is also a testament to its ongoing practice of purchasing new make spirit from distilleries, rather than mature whisky, maturing it in its own casks. Richard Urquhart, a 4th generation member of the Urquhart family who own G&M, will guide us through a range of 7 distilleries label bottlings from Ardmore, Glenburgie, Glentauchers, Linkwood and Morltach, including a few 21 and 25 year olds. Friday May 6, 5PM.

Rethinking Whisky: The Lowlands

·     Date: Friday, May 6

·     Time: 5 PM

·     Cost: $45

·     Pick-Up Date: ETA: Ready Early April!

While we couldn’t convince Andrew to pop the top on a rare old Rosebank for this one, we’re still pretty confident this will be the coolest Lowlands tasting this side of the pond. And if you’re one of those folks still of the opinion that the Lowlands are all flowers and lemons and triple distillation – oh, my! – then we have just the range to shatter your preconceptions. Join Curt and Harmony for a night of ‘out there’ whiskies and an awful lot of chat, as we try to dispel some outdated myths and showcase some of the bottles that have lit us up over the last few months. Participantes will sample whiskies up to 25 and 35 years of age from Auchentoshan, Bladnoch, Daftmill, Glenkinchie, Inchdairnie, Lindores Abbey and North British. Thursday May 26, 7PM.

!!!On Sale!!!

Deals, deals, deals… especially on Waterford, and more than what I have highlighted below too… you can browse the full sale list online!

1. Waterford Single Farm Hook Head 1.1 – 50% – Complex young Irish single malt produced from barley grown on a single farm, matured in a mix of cask types. – Was $101.99 – Save 20% – Now $76.49

2. Waterford Single Farm Lakefield 1.1 – 50% – Complex young Irish single malt produced from barley grown on a single farm, matured in a mix of cask types. – Was $102.99 – Save 20% – Now $77.24

3. Compass Box Peat Monster – 46% – The Peat Monster combines extremely smoky malt whisky from Islay with medium-peated Highland whiskies to create a balanced and approachable monster, but a monster, nonetheless. Enjoy! – Was $79.99 – Save 25% – Now $55.99

4. Smokehead Rum Rebel Islay Single Malt – 46% – This undisclosed Islay Single Malt is rumoured to come from Ardbeg, and has been finished in rum casks. – Was $92 – Save 20% – Now $72.79

5. Smokehead Sherry Bomb Islay Single Malt – This undisclosed Islay Single Malt is rumoured to come from Ardbeg, and has been finished in sherry casks. – Was $115 – Save 20% – Now $91.99

6. Lismore The Legend 21 Year – 43% – Undisclosed Speyside single malt, from the owners of Glenfarclas, with a soft sherried character. – Was $165 – Save 20% – Now $131.99

7. Jura Seven Wood – 42% – Not content with double wood or triple wood, Jura has gone right to SEVEN WOOD with this bottling. – Was $121.99 – Save 35% – Now $79.29

8. Port Askaig 8 Year – 45.8% – Young, but lovely Caol Ila at a great every day price… even better on SALE. – Was $68.99 – Save 20% – Now $55.19

9. Craggnamore Distillers Edition – 40% (boo) Diageo is still playing catch up, so this is still on sale. – Was $107.99 – Save 25% – Now $80.99

10.   Cragganmore Flavour Led – 55.7% – Old NAS Cragganmore with good reviews that is a lot more palatable on sale than at full price! – Was $1199.99 – Save 30% – Now $839.99

FREE DELIVERY

We are proud to offer Free City Wide Delivery on all orders over $100 Monday-Friday!

Orders under $100 are subject to a flat rate $10 delivery fee.

Note we likely cannot offer delivery before Christmas at this point!

CURBSIDE PICKUP

Physical distancing is made easy with curbside pickup.

Order online or by phone, wait for confirmation your order is ready then call us when you are parked in the back or out front.

Be sure to let us know what your vehicle looks like!

403-283-8000

888-283-9004

Regular Store Hours

Mon – Wed 10AM – 8PM

Thurs & Fri 10AM – 9PM

Sat 10AM – 8 PM

Sun 11PM to 6PM

*All Prices Quoted here are subject to change and do not include GST. In the case of pricing discrepancies, the price at our point of sale will be taken as correct.*

Raise a glass to the women who raised us

Find something really special this Mother’s Day and support our campaign for Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust. We’re donating £1 from the sale of every bottle in our Mother’s Day 2022 range to this amazing charity via Work for Good. Time to celebrate the wonderful women in your life this Mother’s Day – there’s something here for every mum!

Mother’s Day 2022 →

We want to see cervical cancer prevented and reduce the impact for everyone affected by cervical cell changes (abnormal cells) and cervical cancer. We do this through providing the highest quality information and support, and campaigning for excellence in cervical cancer treatment and prevention.”

For support and to find our more about Jo’s visit www.jostrust.org.uk