Kensington Wine Market’s E-Whisky Newsletter

Summer is fast approaching, the first day as a matter of fact is Saturday… Things will wind down a little, at least events-wise at KWM, though we do have some great tastings planned over the course of the summer.

But before we slow things down for the summer, we are kicking things up a notch Thursday night with our Spring Single Malt Festival… This is our last whisky festival at KWM until November, and it will feature around 100 single malts, including more than a few treats…

Were cracking some late teens Bruichladdichs, a 25 year old Millstone sherry bomb, and a 1990 Laphroaig amongst other things… (more teasers below). And there will be plenty of good eats from our neighbour Peasant Cheese too, including fine cheese, meats, sausage rolls, and as is now tradition, chocolate dipped bacon…

A dozen or so tickets are still available… so gather some friends, or maybe treat Dad to an experience for Father’s Day this year!

On the subject of Farther’s Day, looking for something to treat or toast your father with this year? We’ve got you covered… We have a bunch of other deals, and also some staff picks, from a few of KWM’s resident fathers.

As always, in the event of a discrepancy in price, the point of sale at KWM will be taken as correct. Online ordering and in-store purchasing are always our preferences. You can email your requests in… but they won’t be dealt with as quickly as the web orders!

Sincerely,

Andrew Ferguson

Kensington Wine Market

PS-We may have another special announcement tomorrow morning!

In This Edition

1. The Spring Single Malt Festival New
2. Father’s Day Picks from 3 KWM Fathers!
3. A Few Selected Deals
4. Woodford Reserve Father’s Day Engraving Promo
5. Upcoming Tastings

The Spring Single Malt Festival

A Few Cheeky Reasons Why You Should

Our Spring Single Malt Festival returns after 4 years on Thursday, and it’s not too late to grab a ticket. We had to pause the event for 3 years initially due to Covid, and then because of restoration work… but it’s back baby.

We’ll have 100 whiskies (almost exclusively single malts) open for tasting, including old favourites, hot new releases, and more than a couple of curiosities.

We are always working on and adding to the pour list right up until game time, but with about a dozen tickets still up for grabs, we thought we’d offer a couple of teasers…

• Berry’s Tullibardine 1996
• Boutique-y 10th Annv. Millstone 25 Year
• Daftmill 15 Year
• Darkness Laphroaig 18 Year PX
• Glenfarclas Family Cask 2005 S22
• Glenfarclas Family Cask 2007 S22
• Nikka Miyagikyo Aromatic Yeast
• Nikka Yoichi Aromatic Yeast
• Rest & Be Bruichladdich 2002
• Rest & Be Port Charlotte 2005
• Signatory Benrinnes 1996
• Signatory Glenrothes 1996
• Signatory Unnamed Islay 1990

Spring Single Malt Festival Spectacular

Date: Thursday, June 15

Time:7 PM

Cost: $75

Buy a Ticket for You or Dad or Both

Father’s Day Selections…

From a Few of Our Fathers!

Evan, Curt, and I aren’t the only whisky-loving fathers at KWM, but we came up with the idea of adding this element on short notice, so we’ve kept it short and sweet.

Andrew’s Pick – G&M CC Balblair 1997 KWM Cask

My family never buys whisky for me, and why would they, I already have plenty, and there is no way they could ever be sure don’t already have a bottle of what they select…

But if they were to purchase a bottle of whisky for me this father’s day, I’d hope they pick our new Gordon & MacPhail Connoisseurs Choice Balblair 1997 ($315+gst) It is a gorgeous old-school sherried whisky, and a great buy for its age quality and price. And there are less than a lot of them left…

Curt’s Pick – Compass Box Flaming Heart 2022

Father’s Day to me isn’t really about me. It’s actually more about the woman who made me a father in the first place, and the daughters who made ‘dad’ and ‘daddy’ two of my favourite words in the English language. Kinda cheesy, right? Yeah, I know.

But if I have to pick a Father’s Day whisky (and Andrew says I do), it’s a really easy choice this time ’round. Compass Box Flaming Heart 2022 ($205+gst) recently arrived in the shop, and I can’t lie, it absolutely bowled me over. Every individual component that went into making this blended whisky had to have been incredible in its own right, but when married together… Flaming Heart became something so much more than just the sum of its parts. It’s strong, beautiful, and elegant. In other words, all of the characteristics that define the women in my life who make being a dad the best thing I’ve ever known. A perfect dram for a lazy Father’s Day evening with the fam.

Evan’s Pick – Berry’s Tobermory 2008 KWM Cask

In the summer months, I find myself veering more into Bourbon than Scotch when it comes to picking something to have at home. However, I am going to follow Andrew’s lead this time around and pick a Sherried Single Malt Scotch. A Sherry cask-driven Scotch can be elegant and classy, but why don’t we stop with these half measures and turn the volume right up to 11?

That is exactly what this Berry’s Tobermory 2008 KWM Cask ($150+gst) does. We did not select this single cask for its subtle and delicate intricacies. This 13+ year-old Tobermory was filled from one Sherry Butt and is bottled at a whopping cask strength 64.8% ABV.

That all being said, this is a well-put-together beast of whisky. Think of it as a Gorilla doing ballet in a tutu, a group of dogs playing poker, or me having carefully shaved, actually combed my hair, and put on a sports jacket all in an attempt to look like a respectable father. Neither happens very often, but when it does it is a sight to behold!

A Few Selected Deals

Something Like A Father’s Day Sale…

Want to impress Dad, but looking for a deal? Here are just some of the whiskies we currently have on sale, in no particular order, you can browse the full list online.

The SMOS Exploration Pack

Dad Would Love This

I’m a Dad, And I Want One!!

These sets are so cool you just know we’re going to have a series of tastings with them. 25 x 30ml samples of single malts from the Single Malts of Scotland range, aged 7-31 years of age including more than a few heavy hitters like Imperial, Ledaig, and much, much more. The full list is on our site if you want to browse!

We are toying with the idea of doing 3 virtual tastings with the whiskies from this set, for anyone who purchases a Single Malts of Scotland Exploration kit, and wants to take part. Likely Tuesdays in August and September. More info to come.

Producer Description

“From the rugged whisky of the northern Orkney islands to the gentle malts of the southern Lowlands, we have dug deep into our rich stocks of whisky to find some of the world’s most lauded malts – including Islay’s famous Laphroaig, acclaimed Highlander Clynelish and lost Speysider Imperial – while also shining a light on some of Scotland’s hidden gems, including Linkwood from Speyside and Ledaig from the Isle of Mull.

“Ranging in age from seven to 31 years, these whiskies have been matured in a variety of casks – ex-bourbon barrels, hogsheads, ex-sherry butts – and exhibit the variety in style and flavour to be found across the spectrum of single malt Scotch whisky. A remarkable, flavourful surprise is revealed behind each window.”

SMOS Exploration Pack 25x30ml – $350

Woodford Reserve Father’s Day Engraving Promo

Does your father or partner like Bourbon? Do you want to gift him a bottle engraved with a special message?

• #1 Dad
• Happy Father’s Day
• To one of my favourite parents!

We’ve teamed up with Brown Forman, and have a special offer. Order a bottle of our Woodford Double Oaked KWM Cask between now and noon Wednesday, June 12th, and we’ll have the bottle engraved with a special note for Dad at the store for you on Friday.

Please put a note in the memo field, requesting engraving. Please limit your message . The more text, the smaller the font will be

Woodford Double Oaked KWM Cask – 45.2% – Evan’s Tasting Note

Nose: A carpenter’s shop: set ablaze but quickly put out by the fire department. Dark chocolate mousse with a maple syrup glaze, lightly roasted coffee beans, and both apple and cherry strudel. Palate: Dark Rye toast with Nutella spread. Kahlua liqueur-filled dark chocolates, dates stuffed with blue cheese wrapped in prosciutto, a dash of Irish cream, black forest cake with cherry filling, poached peaches with a balsamic reduction, and a cafe mocha to wash it all down. Did I mention chocolate? Finish: The toast and char of the oak is there but it doesn’t manage to overwhelm the decadence of this dram. Roasted hazelnuts and almonds covered in chocolate. Comment: It can be a gamble when don’t get to pick the cask ourselves, but I love the richer, darker take on the regular Woodford Double Oak” – $100

We only have 25 bottles left… so don’t doddle on this offer!

Spring Single Malt Festival Spectacular

• Date: Thursday, June 15
• Time:7 PM
• Cost: $75
• FESTIVAL

It is hard to believe, but the last Spring Single Malt Festival was way back in June of 2019… So this is our 9th annual (ish) spring festival of all things malt whisky, though it would have been the 12th, if… you know… so we’ve added the word Spectacular for no specific reason because… why not! It will feature at least 100 single malts from Scotland & around the world, and as always it includes a KWM logo tasting glass. This event sells out quickly, so don’t hesitate… when it is sold out, it is sold out!

Thursday, June 15, 7 PM

SMWS July 2023 Virtual Outturn Tasting

• Date: Wednesday, July 5
• Time:7 PM
• Cost: $55VIRTUAL TASTING

Log in, pour your drams and join us from home, the cottage, another country, or work… for the July 2023 Scotch Malt Whisky Society Canada Virtual Outturn Tasting. The KWM team will be your guide as you sample through an exciting range of 7 SMWS bottlings.

Wednesday, July 5 @ 7 PM

SMWS July 2023 In-Person Outturn Tasting 6PM

• Date: Thursday, July 6
• Time:6 PM
• Cost: $60
• IN-STORE TASTING

The Scotch Malt Whisky Society Canada’s July 2023 Outturn tasting will feature new, never before featured bottlings. The range will be the same as the virtual tasting the night before but will also include nibbles from our friends at Peasant Cheese, and the comradery that can only come from 20 SMWS Members in our tasting room. Please note we will not be holding back stock of the Outturn bottles specifically to purchase for this in-person tasting, though there will likely be bottles of most whiskies still available.

Thursday, July 6 @ 6 PM.

Sipping Signatory in the Summer – 140 Years

• Date: Tuesday, July 11
• Time:7 PM
• Cost: $70
• VIRTUAL TASTING

We’re suckers for Signatory, especially the older Cask Strength Collection bottlings, so we’ve put together a selection of recently arrived Signatory Vintage malts with a combined 140 years of maturation. On the younger side, we are diving head first into first-fill sherry with the Edradour 10 Year, Linkwood 2012, and Benrines 2010. On the Cask Strength side, we have Benrinnes 1996, Dailuaine 1997, Glenrothes 1996, and an Unnamed Islay 1990 bottling (*cough Laphroaig*).

Tuesday, July 11th, 2023 @ 7 PM

Compass Box New & Old with Scott Ellis

• Date: Tuesday, July 18
• Time:7 PM
• Cost: $60
• VIRTUAL TASTING

With the arrival of three new limited edition Compass Box whiskies, the time is right for a Compass Box range tasting. So we have recruited Compass Box’s Scott Ellis, and we’ve pulled together a range of 8 whiskies. We’ll sample 3 different bottlings of Flaming Heart, both releases of The Circle, Ultramarine, Vellichor and one other.

Tuesday, July 18, 7PM

Daftmill Vertical Tasting

• Date: Tuesday, July 25
• Time:7 PM
• Cost: $50
• VIRTUAL TASTING

It has taken us a while, almost 3 years to be precise, but we have finally cobbled together enough bottlings of Daftmill for a range tasting… true, it is only 6, but how many of you can say you’ve done a vertical of Daftmill whiskies? The tasting will consist of 2007, 2009, and a pair of 2008s, as well as our 2008 KWM Cask, and the newly arrived 15-Year Cask Strength. Andrew is visiting the distillery in the weeks before the tasting, and will no doubt have some photos to share.

Tuesday, July 25th, 2023 @ 7 PM

Nothing but North Star Whiskies

• Date: Tuesday, August 1
• Time:7 PM
• Cost: $90
• VIRTUAL TASTING

You had us at 31-year-old GlenDronach… We recently received some cool new releases from Iain Croucher at North Star Spirits, and we can’t resist the temptation to try them. On the young side of things, there is the new Tarot Blend, a Campbeltown Blended Malt, and only the second-ever bottling from Dalmunach. We love a good Blair Athol, and how often do you see an indie bottle of Dalwhinnie? But the icing on the cake of this tasting will be the GlenDronach 31 Year. You almost never see indie GlenDronach, and this one has some great reviews!

Tuesday, August 1st, 2023 @ 7 PM

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.

We are expecting high demand for delivery after the sale so please be patient!

403-283-8000

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.

The Kensington Wine Market | 1257 Kensington Road NW, Calgary, Alberta T2N 3P8 Canada

Award-winning Tomatin whisky: the ideal gift for Father’s Day 2023

Highland distillery unveils its ‘must-have’ whiskies for father figures this June

There is no better way to celebrate a father figure than with a remarkable dram, shared together or gifted as a moment to savour.

Nestled in the heart of the Highlands and famous for its portfolio of spectacular single malts, Tomatin is a distillery full of history, heritage, and charm. Responsible for the award-winning collection is a loyal team, many of whom have worked at the distillery for much of their adult lives, with generations of their families before them.

Family is intrinsic to what makes Tomatin and its whisky so special, making it the ideal choice for a Father’s Day gift.

Tomatin – 12 Year Old single malt (70cl, 43% ABV, £47)

An award-winning flagship from Tomatin’s core range: a silky smooth single malt with a rich and fruity aroma. 

This remarkable 12 Year Old single malt is matured in a combination of ex-bourbon, ex-Spanish sherry and traditional Scotch whisky casks. Initial aromas of wild heather, pine and cedar soon reveal sweeter notes of crème caramel with apples, pears and mango, before a full-bodied and buttery finish.

The quality of this whisky was recognised at the world-renowned International Spirits Challenge receiving Gold in 2022 and 2021, and most recently, picking up a Gold at the San Fransisco World Spirits Competition in 2023.

Available at: https://tomatin.com/ and specialist whisky retailers.  

 

Tomatin – Legacy single malt (70cl, 43% ABV, £35) 

An exceptional single malt which celebrates the legacy of Tomatin and the enduring spirit of its people.

After being established in 1897 in the heart of the idyllic but isolated village of Tomatin, the distillery required a workforce to manage production. The company began a construction project to accommodate its workforce and since then, the distillery has been at the heart of the community. It is one of the few remaining distilleries which provides a home for its craftsmen and women on-site.

Legacy is a nod to that story.

This unpeated Scotch boasts aromas of vanilla bean, white chocolate, and cinnamon. Time spent in bourbon barrels and virgin oak casks brings a light sweetness to the whisky, which also offers a palate of gentle waves of fresh fruit peppered with ginger before a light, clean finish.

Available at: https://tomatin.com/ and specialist whisky retailers.   

Tomatin – 14 Year Old single malt (70cl, 46% ABV, £75)

A rare single malt from Tomatin’s core range: silky and sweet, benefiting from its time spent in Tawny Port casks

This distinctive 14 year old single malt whisky is matured in a combination of Bourbon barrels and Port casks which have previously held port for around 50 years.

A feather in the cap of Tomatin’s first class wood policy, a rich but balanced aromas of red berries are met with sweet honey and rich toffee which develop into aspects of light fruits and nuts to create an abiding finish of smooth fruit salad.

The quality of this whisky was recognised at the world-renowned International the San Fransisco World Spirits Competition in 2021 picking up Gold and Double Gold in 2019.

Available at: https://tomatin.com/ and specialist whisky retailers

Tomatin – Portuguese Collection 

Experience the magic of Tomatin’s craftsmanship in cask maturations with Tomatin’s Portuguese Collection. The limited-edition collection was launched last year to celebrate the relationship the distillery holds with its cask providers overseas.  

Distilled on 8th September 2006 and laid down in traditional oak casks for over eight years. On 23rd April 2015 the whisky was then moved into Tawny Port, Moscatel de Setúbal and Madeira Wine casks for a further seven years, resulting in a magnificent triad of single malt Scotch Whiskies.

#1 – The Port Edition single malt (70cl, 46% ABV, £90)

The first in the Collection is a unique edition matured in Tawny Port Casks, boasting aromas of Black Forest gateau that are met with warm spices and develop into fresh summer fruits. The taste is deep with forest fruits including blackberries, raspberries, and cherries, alongside sweeter notes of peach and apricot which return on the finish.

#2 – The Moscatel Edition single malt (70cl, 46%, £90)

Part two of the Portuguese Collection is the Moscatel Edition which is matured in Moscatel de Setúbal Casks. This distinctive single malt boasts sweet aromas of marmalade, honey and salted caramel that has a hint of citrus which balances perfectly with ginger and star anise on the palate. A sweet whisky with a long, dessert wine finish.

#3 – The Maderia Edition single malt (70cl, 46%, £90

Part three of the Portuguese Collection is the Maderia Edition which is matured in Maderia Wine casks. Initial aromas of honey and lemon take the lead, while flavours of butterscotch and stewed apples dance on the palate, before a treacly and fruity finish.

Available at: https://tomatin.com/ and specialist whisky retailers.

Tasting notes 

Tomatin 12 Year Old tasting notes

• Nose–Initially herbaceous with aromas of heather, wild mint, pinecones, and cedar soon sweetening to reveal notes of cookie dough, sultanas, caramelized sugar, and pine sap. There is a faint hint of leather and spice.
• Palate–Sweet and malty, reminiscent of a cheesecake base with dried apple, mango, and fresh pears. Crème caramel with raisin and Christmas spice.
• Finish –Buttery, full-bodied fruitiness gives way to tantalisingly dry notes of Oloroso. 

Tomatin Legacy tasting notes

• Nose – Opens with a burst of Bourbon barrel sweetness – aromas of custard cream biscuits, white chocolate, vanilla bean, white sugar, and golden syrup, before hints of sandalwood, desiccated coconut and cinnamon give a nod to the use of Virgin American Oak.
• Palate – Waves of sweet vanilla and fresh fruit with a gentle touch of white pepper and ginger. The quality of the Tomatin spirit is on full display here with pink lady apples, rhubarb, and candied orange peel.
• Finish – Fruit and oak combine to create a clean yet intriguing finish. 

Tomatin 14 Year Old tasting notes

• Nose– Top notes of fresh peach, mandarin, watermelon, and apple with deeper forest fruits like cherry and blackberry. There’s a touch of milk chocolate and a pop of honeycomb. Notes of clove and cardamom grow in intensity before another wave of fruit.
• Palate–The freshness on the nose has been preserved into a raspberry and strawberry jam, apricot compote, glace cherry, and crystallised ginger. Caramelised figs, prunes and nutty tones are indicative of the rich tawny port that once occupied these casks.
• Finish–A silky texture coats the mouth with jammy fruits and Byzantium spice. 

Tomatin Portuguese Collection tasting notes 

The Port Edition: The initial aroma is that of Black Forest gateau, with warm spices developing into fresh summer fruits. The taste is deep with forest fruits; blackberries, raspberries and cherries, but the sweeter notes of peach and apricot return on the finish.

The Moscatel Edition: Sweet aromas of marmalade, honey and salted caramel with a hint of citrus balance perfectly with ginger and star anise on the palate. A sweet whisky with a long, dessert wine finish.

The Madeira Edition: Pronounced aromas of honey and lemon take the lead, while flavours of butterscotch and stewed apples dance on the palate. The finish is treacly and fruity.

About Tomatin  

Tomatin is located in the Scottish Highlands (near Inverness) and is famous for its portfolio of soft and mellow whiskies, including a core range, a limited-edition range and a premium archive range (prices range from £35 – £17,500). Tomatin Single Malt is owned by Japanese company Takara Shuzo International

Tomatin has been dedicated to protecting its craft, its environment and particularly its community, which is at the very heart of the brand. Many of the craftspeople working on site have been doing so their entire working lives – all working towards producing a wide range of single malts, beloved across the world.

In 2022, Tomatin launched its new brand platform, ‘To What Matters’ – designed to remind people about the important things in life. ‘To What Matters’ is the latest chapter in the brand’s evolution; a positive call to arms that represents the spiritual DNA of Tomatin – a human belief in what’s truly important in life. The significant moments.

Recognition of the Highland distillery’s craftsmanship continues to grow globally.  In 2022, Tomatin was awarded ‘Scotch Whisky Producer of the Year’ and ‘Outstanding Spirits Producer of the Year’ at the International Wine & Spirit Competition. Later that year, it was recognised as ‘Sustainable Distillery of the Year’ at Whisky Magazine’s Icons of Whisky 2023, in recognition of its continued contribution to sustainably at the distillery.

In 2023, Tomatin’s Legacy single malt, part of the core range, was awarded Gold at the International Wine & Spirit Competition. It also took home seven awards at the San Fransisco World Spirits Competition, while Cù Bòcan, which is produced at the distillery in limited batches every winter, took home three.

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We’ve got the dads covered this Father’s Day!

Peat Chimney bottles up all the smoke and peaty character of the west coast of Scotland. Perfect for cosying up on a blustery Scottish day or taking out and about through the glens when the sun appears. Either way, this is the perfect treat for Father’s Day this year. If he prefers a sweeter expression or something a bit spicy in his whisky then why not purchase one of our different core range bottlings: The Hive or Spice King.

Richly smouldering and sumptuous

~ Peat Chimney

Abuzz with anticipation and possibility

~ The Hive

At once intense and exhilarating

~ Spice King

Send him on an exploration of bold flavour and vivid expression.

Shop Core Range UK

Shop Core Range EU

Or is he into something more exclusive and sweeter?

Nectar Grove is a sweet whisky that has been matured in ex-Madeira Wine casks from the exciting and flavour rich Portuguese islands off the west coast of Africa. Sun-baked peaches on the nose, a sumptuous rich vanilla essence building into a warm finish of complex spices. Quite the blend making quite the dram… We are very lucky to have access to such high quality oak casks, and any father will be even luckier to taste the spoils!

Shop Nectar Grove UK

Shop Nectar Grove EU

 

Top whiskies for Father’s Day 2023

Independent distiller Loch Lomond Group reveals its ultimate gift guide of whiskies including Glen Scotia, Loch Lomond Whiskies and Noble Rebel

Glen Scotia, Loch Lomond Whiskies and Noble Rebel have recommended a range of Father’s Day expressions, perfect for whisky-loving dads and father figures across the country.

With a range of expressions from light and floral to heavily peated, across a variety of budgets, there’s something to suit all dads’ tastes this Father’s Day.

GLEN SCOTIA

For dads who enjoy their history, Glen Scotia is the perfect choice. Once known as the Victorian Whisky Capital of the World, Campbeltown was previously home to more than 30 distilleries. Now, only three remain including the award-winning Glen Scotia, whose range of exceptional single malt whiskies perfectly encapsulates the essence of the area and reflects the centuries of craftsmanship and experience associated with Scotland’s smallest whisky-making region.

Glen Scotia 15 Years Old – £68 – 46% ABV 

An exceptional single malt whisky intended to deliver a true taste of Campbeltown in its most beautiful simplicity.

Unpeated and matured in first-fill bourbon and re-fill American Oak casks, this rich and smooth single malt scotch whisky boasts hints of vanilla, sea spray and spicy aromatic fruits including apricot and orange blossom. A short finish in Oloroso casks ensures the classic regional traits shine through, for a warm, spicy and dry finish. 

Available at www.glenscotia.com and specialist whisky retailers.

Glen Scotia 21 Years Old – £265 – 46% ABV 

An elegant addition to any whisky connoisseur’s collection, the Glen Scotia 21 Year Old single malt is a smooth and aromatic dram.

Aged in a combination of refill bourbon barrels and refill American oak hogsheads, before a six-month finish in first-fill Oloroso sherry casks which adds perfumed floral notes to the signature distillery character of rich fruits and Atlantic Sea spray.

The liquid has been matured to bridge the gap between Glen Scotia’s 18 Year Old and its 25 Year Old, which won the ‘Best in Class’ and therefore Best in the World, at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition in 2021 out of 3,800 entrants.

An elegant metal coin of the Glen Scotia logo is set into the shoulder of the premium bottle, which is presented in a solid display box ideal for collectors or gifting to someone special this Father’s Day. 

Available at www.glenscotia.com and specialist whisky retailers.

Glen Scotia Harbour Whisky Gift Set with Glasses – £50 – 40% ABV

The Glen Scotia Harbour Whisky Gift set is the perfect introduction to a whisky region rich in heritage and the perfect gift for a whisky lover looking to delve into the world of Campbeltown whisky.

It features two beautifully presented branded Glencairn whisky glasses and a bottle of Glen Scotia Harbour, a classic Campbeltown single malt that pays tribute to the small harbour town that went onto become the Victorian Whisky Capital of the World.

Glen Scotia Harbour has a distinct as distinct coastal influence of sea salt and gentle smoke, balanced with soft peach and vanilla custard that leaves a tangy peat on the finish. A gift that truly keeps on giving.

Available at www.glenscotia.com and specialist whisky retailers.  

LOCH LOMOND WHISKIES

Those looking for innovation should look no further than Loch Lomond Whiskies. The award-winning independent distiller features expressions created by the distillery’s unique combination of straight neck and swan neck stills. This year’s collection includes one of the distillery’s most popular expressions, as well as two limited edition single malts created specially to mark the 151^st year of golf’s prestigious The Open Championship, of which Loch Lomond Whiskies is the official spirit partner.

Loch Lomond Open Course Edition 2023 – £240 – 48.2% ABV 

Loch Lomond The Open Course Edition is a celebration of The Open’s 151^st golf championship, a monumental and prestigious event that will bring together the best golfers in the world this July.

Recently awarded Double Gold at the prestigious San Francisco World Spirits Awards, the highly exclusive certified organic single malt is a rare expression which captures the distillery’s spirit of exploration and unique whisky-making style.  Having distilled for over 22 years, it delivers notes of tropical fruit, pineapple and vanilla with a hint of toasted oak, ginger and cinnamon on the finish.

The Open Course Edition 2023 is presented in a striking black case and boasts an elevated bottle design, making it the perfect Father’s Day gift which will stand out on any whisky cabinet.   

Available at www.lochlomondwhiskies.com and specialist whisky retailers.   

Loch Lomond Open Special Edition – £45 – 46% ABV 

The ideal gift for golf fans, Loch Lomond The Open Edition marks the 151^st year of golf’s most prestigious championship which will take place at Royal Liverpool this summer.

Recently awarded Double Gold at the prestigious San Francisco World Spirits Awards, it has been crafted in partnership with Loch Lomond Whiskies’ long term golf ambassador, Colin Montgomerie – one of Scotland’s most legendary golfing figures.

The whisky was aged in American Oak casks before finishing its maturation journey in the rich red wine Rioja Alta Reserva cask which brings out the whisky’s unique notes of red berry, orchard fruit and creamy vanilla with dark chocolate, which complement the soft smoke on the finish.

Montgomerie’s signature appears on each bottle, adding an extra special touch to this wonderful Father’s Day gift.  Available at www.lochlomondwhiskies.com and specialist whisky retailers.

NOBLE REBEL

Finally, for any dram-loving dads who like to experiment with new flavours, there’s no better time to introduce them to Noble Rebel. An innovative and bold new blended malt Scotch whisky brand from Loch Lomond Group, Noble Rebel creatively pushes boundaries in the pursuit of flavour creation, combining the nobility of single malt whisky with the rigour of craftmanship. The flavours of Noble Rebel are brought to life through a series of vivid illustrations that detail the intricate stories, layers and tasting notes of each blend.

Noble Rebel Whisky Orchard Burst – £40 – 46% ABV

Noble Rebel was created to bring new ideas to old ways and traditions, so to create modern masterpieces that welcome newcomers with open arms and delight old friends alike.

Matured in ex-bourbon casks, Orchard Outburst balances crisp, ripe orchard fruits with surprising flavours of crashing salty ocean waves, resulting in an explosion of zest with hints of zingy lemon and lime.

This intriguing malt contains whisky distilled with Chardonnay wine yeast, an unusual ingredient in whisky distillation which helps to intensify fruit and citrus flavours in the finished blend.

It’s a beautifully balanced blend that is ideally suited for the main man in your life this Father’s Day. 

Available at www.noblerebelmalts.com and specialist whisky retailers. 

Noble Rebel Whisky Smoke Symphony – £40 – 46% ABV 

Smoke Symphony weaves threads of peat and smoke with hits of chilli. Lightning bolts of rich red body married with subtle berry tartness create a truly intriguing dram. Finished in Rioja wine casks, Smoke Symphony conveys notes of smoke, spice and dark berries.

Like its Noble counterparts, Smoke Symphony is non-chill filtered which adds to its rustic and rugged charm and natural colour.

Far from your everyday dram, surprise your peat whisky-loving father with this excellent dram that’ll leave a lasting impression.

Available at www.noblerebelmalts.com and specialist whisky retailers.

Noble Rebel Whisky Hazelnut Harmony – £40 – 46% ABV 

Hazelnut Harmony is a sweet and inviting all-rounder which mingles nuts with a hint of sweet honeycomb, with subtle pear undertones meeting imprints of warm oak.

Completing the trio of expressions, Hazelnut Harmony is finished in toasted American oak casks, which adds a sweet flavour of honey, vanilla and hazelnut to the whisky.

The vivid illustrations on the premium embellished bottle detail the intricate stories, layers and tasting notes of the expression, making it the perfect gift which will stand out on any whisky cabinet.  

Available at www.noblerebelmalts.com and specialist whisky retailers.

Tasting Notes

Glen Scotia 15 Years Old

Nose: Citrus peels, ginger snap biscuits, and baked fruits

Taste: Plump fruits with a surprising dry finish, apricots, fruit salad, caramelised sugar and oak

Finish: Warm spicy, honey smoothness, oak and a dry finish

Glen Scotia 21 Years Old

Nose: Sweet perfumed oloroso, spiced red apple, peppercorns with a soft signature Campbeltown aroma

Taste: Baked red apples, plump raisins, a journey of cloves, star anise, cinnamon and spice. Soft creamy vanilla, toffee and sea spray

Finish: Long, complex and incredibly balanced, with a lingering touch of sea salt and sherry dryness

Glen Scotia Harbour

Nose: Briny sea spray, violet and lavender and vanilla

Taste: Soft peach, crisp green apple, chewy fudge and vanilla custard

Finish: Medium length, dry with gentle smoke, tangy peat and maritime sea spray

 Loch Lomond Open Course Edition

Nose: Honey, peach, melon, lemon, stem ginger

Taste: Grapefruit, vanilla, caramel, pineapple, mango

Finish: Long spicy finish with ginger, cinnamon and toasted oak

Loch Lomond Open Special Edition

Nose: Floral notes of rose, soft fruits, peach and pear

Taste: Red berry and orchard fruit. Raspberry and peach, creamy vanilla and dark chocolate

Finish: Medium length, a touch of smoke gives way to lasting fruit notes

Noble Rebel Whisky Orchard Outburst

Matured in ex-bourbon casks, Orchard Outburst balances crisp, ripe orchard fruits with surprising flavours of crashing salty ocean waves, resulting in an explosion of zest with hints of zingy lemon and lime.

Noble Rebel Whisky Smoke Symphony

Smoke Symphony weaves threads of peat and smoke with hits of chilli. Lightning bolts of rich red body married with subtle berry tartness create a truly intriguing dram. 

Noble Rebel Whisky Hazelnut Harmony

Hazelnut Harmony mingles nuts with a hint of sweet honeycomb, with subtle pear undertones meeting imprints of warm oak.

About Loch Lomond Group 

• Loch Lomond Group is an independent distiller based in Alexandria and is home to several award-winning brands that are sold in more than 125 countries worldwide.
• Loch Lomond Distillery has been producing the finest single malt whiskies since 1814.
• Images and interviews with key staff from the Group are available upon request.
• For further details, please visit: lochlomondgroup.com

About Loch Lomond Whiskies  

Loch Lomond Distillery has one of the oldest heritages in the industry. It was founded by American, Duncan Thomas, the owner of the Littlemill Distillery which was licensed in 1772. In the 1930s Duncan Thomas was at the forefront of innovation within the Scotch whisky industry and his innovative philosophy is ingrained into everything that is done at Loch Lomond to this day.

In 1814, the original site of the Loch Lomond Distillery was established near Tarbet, towards the north-west end of Loch Lomond; an area which has been at the heart of the whisky industry for centuries. With at least nine distilleries around the loch lost over the years, Loch Lomond Distillers has maintained a proud local tradition into the 21st century.

About Glen Scotia 

Distiller Glen Scotia has been producing single malt whisky in Campbeltown since 1832 and is one of three surviving distilleries in Campbeltown.

Producing peated and non-peated whiskies, the distillery still maintains much of its original design, including the fermenters, the stillroom, and the dunnage warehouse dating from the 1830s.To this day, the distillery team follow in the footsteps of their founders, using traditional methods, and carefully creating the subtly maritime Campbeltown style the brand has become world-famous for.

Recognition of Glen Scotia’s style and craftsmanship continues to be acknowledged globally.

• In 2021, Glen Scotia’s 25-Year-Old Single Malt whisky was awarded ‘Best In Show Whisky’ at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Over 3,800 entries across thirty-one categories were judged with Glen Scotia being awarded the overall winner across all countries and styles. Only seven months later, Glen Scotia was also named Scottish Whisky Distillery of the Year at the Scottish Whisky Awards 2021.
• In 2022, Glen Scotia’s Victoriana won Best In Class in the Distillers’ Single Malt Scotch – No Age Statement category at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
• In 2023, Glen Scotia won ‘Best Single Cask Single Malt’ at the World Whiskies Awards 2023 for a single cask bottling distilled in 2009 and aged for 13 years exclusively in a first-fill bourbon barrel.

About Noble Rebel 

Shaped by expertise and expressivity, Noble Rebel is a blended malt Scotch whisky unlike any other.  Skillfully curating the finest malts, each with a history of their own, and artfully blending them into striking whisky masterpieces, Noble Rebel pushes the boundaries of flavour with courage, craftsmanship and creativity. Respectful of tradition and inquisitive about the future, Noble Rebel heralds a new dawn of whisky mastery.

Win an incredible VIP Tour with Glenfiddich

Buy any of the expressions within the Grand Series range from now until 18th June.

Discover Glenfiddich Grand Series →

Hamish’s Hidden Malt
WIN: Glen Scotia
25 Year Old

Buy selected expressions of Glen SCotia between now and 14th June 2023 to enter into our latest Hamish’s Hidden Malt. We’ll pick one winner at random to receive a 70cl bottle of the multi-award-winning Glen Scotia 25 Year Old!

Best of luck!

Shop Now →

A VISIT TO THE CAIRN DISTILLERY, SCOTLAND

by Paul Mclean

Kensington Wine Market’s E-Whisky ARDBEG DAY Newsletter

Peatheads! Rejoice! We’re taking over.

This edition of the Malt Messenger is being held hostage by Curt. Don’t worry, Andrew is safe. It was a peaceful coup, and no egos were hurt in the transition, but for now, RADIO KWM is all ours!

For those that don’t know me well, I should tell you that I celebrate two more holidays each year than most people: Ardbeg Day and Superbowl Sunday. The latter of which, Andrew has referred to as a religious holiday in my household. He’s not wrong. Hopefully, we can talk football later in the year, but folks… it’s Thursday, and we are on the eve of the eve of Ardbeg Day 2023! In ‘parentspeak’: “Two more sleeps, kids!”

If you don’t already have plans to join us devout Ardbeggians this coming Saturday, clear your schedule and read on.

Oh, and fear not, the big guy will be back at the keyboard for the next proper Malt Messenger, but for now… pour a dram of something smoky and settle in for a bit.

Hope this finds you well (and heavily peated)!

Curt

Kensington Wine Market

In This Edition

1. Ardbeg Day 2023

2. Ardbeg Single Malts

3. Upcoming Tastings

Ardbeg Day 2023

Have you freed up your Saturday afternoon yet? Well…what are you waiting for? I gave you notice several sentences ago.

Join the team from Ardbeg and a few of the KWM crew this Saturday, June 3rd at Hayden Block (just a few blocks east of KWM) for a couple hours of smoky revelry. There will be food, drink, games, prizes, and an opportunity to try this year’s limited edition Ardbeg Day release, Heavy Vapours. And all for the price of a tall coffee at S*****cks. 😉

It seems the day of the 3-litre bottle is behind us, so you won’t Andrew necking this stuff anymore, but we’ll always find ways to be a bit cheeky.

Here are the deets. See you there!

Ardbeg Day at Hayden Block

Registration is through a Third Party Site

·     Date: Saturday, June 3

·     Time: 2 PM

·     Cost: $15

·     HAYDEN BLOCK

For the first time ever at Ardbeg, its whisky has been distilled without a purifier – the apparatus on the still responsible for maintaining Ardbeg’s unrivaled balance between extreme peat and floral fruitiness.

Following the distillery’s Planet Ardbeg comic launch last year, a dramatic new storyline in the series will be revealed alongside the new expression that’s inspired by its unusual creation. And so this year, whisky lovers are invited to celebrate the theme of ‘Planet’ Ardbeg Day – where they can expect to be transported into Ardbeg’s mythical, graphic novel universe.

·     Location: Hayden Block Smoke & Whiskey

·     Time: 2-5 PM

·     Ticket: $15 includes two drink tickets and food.

·     & giveaways and games

Saturday, June 3rd from 2-5 PM

Ardbeg Single Malts

 

While we might wish for a couple more age-stated expressions in the Ardbeg portfolio, it’s impossible not to concede that this is undoubtedly one of the great core ranges in the modern whisky world. (Though I may be a wee bit biased, as most of you know. There’s probably more Ardbeg than blood flowing through my veins at this point. Humble brag or cry for help? You decide.)

The distillery recently doubled production, yet I can’t imagine they’re anywhere near keeping up with the level of demand there is for anything bearing that iconic stylized ‘A’.

At the risk of stirring up a hornet’s nest, can I just mention how bloody amazing an Ardbeg Ten Caesar is? Trust me.

1. Ardbeg Ten – 46% – One of Scotland’s most beloved whiskies, this 10-year-old highlights the distillery’s peaty provenance. Although technically the most heavily-peated full-time production whisky in Scotland, the distillery’s cinch-necked stills and spirit-purifier give this malt a softer edge than might be expected. Classic and iconic at this point. There are those that love it and those that are wrong. Producer Tasting Note: “Nose: A burst of intense smoky fruit escapes into the atmosphere. peat infused with zesty lemon and lime, wrapped in waxy dark chocolate. Bold menthol and black pepper slice through the sweet smoke followed by tarry ropes and graphite. Savour the aroma of smoked fish and crispy bacon alongside green bell peppers, baked pineapple and pear juice. Add water and an oceanic minerality brings a breath of cool, briny seaspray. Waxed lemon and lime follows with coal tar soap, beeswax and herby pine woodlands. Toasted vanilla and sizzling cinnamon simmer with warm hazelnut and almond toffee. Palate: An explosion of crackling peat sets off millions of flavour explosions: peat effervesces with tangy lemon and lime juice, black pepper pops with sizzling cinnamon-spiced toffee. Then comes a wave of brine infused with smooth buttermilk, ripe bananas and currants. Smoke gradually wells up on the palate bringing a mouthful of warm creamy cappuccino and toasted marshmallows. As the taste lengthens and deepens, dry espresso, liquorice root and tarry smoke develop coating the palate with chewy peat oils. Finish: The finish goes on and on – long and smoky with tarry espresso, aniseed, toasted almonds and traces of soft barley and fresh pear.” – $93.99 + GST

2. Ardbeg Wee Beastie – 47.4% – The latest addition to the core range, Wee Beastie is a 5-year-old Ardbeg that was created to be the rawest and most peaty Ardbeg ever bottled. We particularly love the ballsy nature of throwing a great big ‘5’ on the label. Not a lot of brands would have so much confidence in the swagger of their young spirit. Matured in a mix of ex-Bourbon and Oloroso Sherry casks. Producer Tasting Note: “Nose: The first sniff alerts you to a nearby presence… heightened senses are filled with very bright, fresh herbal notes, with creeping hints of vanilla and pear. Rich Turkish coffee mingles with sappy pine resin, with honey-glazed ham lurking in the background. With water, more herbal top notes like vetiver and fennel captivate and pull you in, while beguiling scents of aniseed, green apple and leather cause you to drop your guard. Out of nowhere, a sharp tang of smoke and a crack of fresh black pepper fire warning shots across the senses. Palate: Suddenly, a rich, explosive mouthfeel bursts forth with chocolate, creosote and tar. A powerful blast of eucalyptus thrashes about with antiseptic lozenges and aniseed. The raw, smoky intensity gathers pace, before smoked bacon and savoury meats sink into the palate. Finish: The long, salty mouthcoating finish retreats, with hints of cocoa and fudge slinking slowly away.” – $80.99 + GST

3. Ardbeg Corryvreckan – 57.1% – Corryvreckan was launched as a replacement for Airigh Nam Beist but has become a legend in its own right. It’s sweet, smoky, spicy, and unmistakably Ardbeg. Toasted French oak is the not-so-secret to this one. No shy Ardbeg, Corry is kinda like a peated meteor shower on the tongue. Expect a big un! But why wouldn’t you? This is Ardbeg, after all. Producer Tasting Note: “Nose: Heady, intense and powerful. Swirl the glass and dip your nose into the torrents of tarry ropes, creosote and linseed oil rising from deep within the vortex. A collision of waxy dark chocolate, warm blackcurrants and muscovado sugar pulls you under its spell with a burst of plump cherries and earthy pine needles leaping from its depths. From salty seasoning comes a briny character with tangy crisp seaweed and smoky bacon swirling on the surface with hints of sweet vanilla, spicy cloves and blueberries. Surrender to its dangerous depths with the heady force of menthol, treacle and chilli sauce. Palate: Plunge into the whirlpool and torrents of taste well up on the palate; deep, peppery and chewy, bombarding the tongue. The first plunge brings forth chewy peppered steak soaked in pepper sauce with the tang of crispy seaweed. As you descend deeper, encounter a mouthful of black tarry espresso coffee that coats the palate with rich melted dark fruits (blackcurrants, blueberries and cherries) and bitter almonds. As the taste soaks in deeper, star anise and hickory dry out the palate before a surprise of chalky effervescent violets fizz to the surface. Finish: Long, deep and remaining powerful into the finish with black tarry coffee, chocolate coated cherries and hot pepper sauce, the lingering memories of your mysterious and daring journey into Corryvreckan.” – $147.99 + GST

4. Ardbeg Uigeadail – 54.2% – Uigeadail (pronounced ‘Oog-a-dal’) was launched in 2003 to pretty much universal acclaim. Its heady mixture of ex-Bourbon and ex-sherry casks was like nothing else available at the time and two decades later, the legend continues to grow. The most recent batch is particularly awesome. And for the Ardgeeks who may be curious, the whisky takes its name from the mysterious Loch that also happens to be Ardbeg Distillery’s water source. A game-changer for those that are lucky enough to try it for the first time. Producer Tasting Note: “Nose: Rich and weighty with heady and smoky aromatics. At full strength, the initial aroma is a beguiling mix of warm Christmas cake, walnut oil and parma violets fused with fresh ocean spice, cedar and pine needles falling from the Christmas tree. A smouldering coal fire and the scent of well-oiled leather brings warmth. The sweetness of treacle toffees and chocolate-coated raisins emerge through the smoke. With water, the deep smokiness increases in intensity, reminiscent of a fired Christmas pudding. Rich flowering currants and warm baked banana and walnut bread are served with simmering mocha espresso. Palate: Full flavoured and rich with a deep mouth-coating texture, the taste is an intriguing balance between sweet, spicy and deep smoky flavours. The flavour is initially sweet. A burst of winter spices sets off a smoky-spicy explosion countered by a sumptuous mid-palate of honey glazed smoked food and chewy treacle. Waves of deep smoky tones and rich aromas build up on the palate like a fine Montecristo cigar. Finish: Amazingly long and chewy with lingering raisiny, deep mocha tones and rich aromatic smoke into the perfectly integrated finish.” – $132.99 + GST

 

Upcoming Tastings

Ardbeg Day at Hayden Block

Registration is through a Third Party Site

·     Date: Saturday, June 3

·     Time: 2 PM

·     Cost: $15

·     HAYDEN BLOCK

For the first time ever at Ardbeg, its whisky has been distilled without a purifier – the apparatus on the still responsible for maintaining Ardbeg’s unrivaled balance between extreme peat and floral fruitiness.

Following the distillery’s Planet Ardbeg comic launch last year, a dramatic new storyline in the series will be revealed alongside the new expression that’s inspired by its unusual creation. And so this year, whisky lovers are invited to celebrate the theme of ‘Planet’ Ardbeg Day – where they can expect to be transported into Ardbeg’s mythical, graphic novel universe.

·     Location: Hayden Block Smoke & Whiskey

·     Time: 2-5PM

·     Ticket: $15 includes two drink tickets and food.

·     & giveaways and games

Saturday, June 3, 2-5 PM

Rest & Bruichladdich

• Date: Tuesday, June 6
• Time:7 PM
• Cost: $55
• VIRTUAL TASTING

We recently received a quintet of curious new whiskies from the Rest & Be Thankful Co. Four are from Bruichladdich Distillery, 2 each of Port Charlotte and Bruichladdich. The provenance of these Bruichladdich casks is curious, as they are believed to be from Mark Reynier’s personal stash… The 5th whisky is a bottling of Finglassie, only the second time we have had a bottling from the new Inchdarnie Distillery. Those 5 malts make for the start of a tempting lineup, so we’ve added a couple of other Laddies to the range to round things out. Join us for a Rest & Bruichladdich kinda evening!

Tuesday, June 6, 2023, 7 PM

Spongeworthy Whiskies Round 2 with Angus MacRaild

• Date: Thursday, June 8
• Time:5 PM
• Cost: $120
• VIRTUAL TASTING

Angus MacRaild, aka The Whisky Sponge, is joining us for another round of Spongeworthy whiskies. We have selected 7 malts from a recent Decadent Drinks delivery, from the Whisky Sponge, Equinox & Solstice, and NAS (Notable Age Statement) ranges. Angus will guide us through whiskies from Ardmore, Ben Nevis, Glen Grant, Ledaig, Old Rhosdhu, and Springbank, as well as a very unusual 30 year old Blended Malt with a crazy back story.

Thursday, June 8, 5PM * Note the early start time… Angus is in the UK, and has a wee girl!

Gordon & MacPhail KWM Casks Launch with Richard Urquhart

• Date: Friday, June 9
• Time:5 PM
• Cost: $40
• VIRTUAL TASTING

We have a pair of gorgeous KWM-exclusive single casks on the way and they are expected any day now… So we have asked our friend Richard Urquhart, part of the 4th generation of Urquharts at Gordon & MacPhail, to host a virtual launch tasting for us. In addition to our sherried Balblair 1997 and tropical Glen Scotia 2000 KWM Casks, we will also be pouring whiskies from Dailuaine, Glen Elgin, Highland Park, Macallan, and Tomatin.

Friday, June 9, 5PM

Two Brewers Yukon Single Malt with Bob Baxter

• Date: Saturday, June 10
• Time:5 PM
• Cost: $25
• IN-STORE TASTING

Bob Baxter, one of the founders of Yukon Brewing & Distilling, will be joining us for a Two Brewers Yukon Single Malt vertical tasting. While the brewing started in 1997, Bob and his partner Alan started laying down casks of whisky in 2009. Some of their stocks are now more than 10 years old which is really exciting. We’ve been fans of Two Brewers for years, and truly believe they are making some of the best whisky in Canada. We’ll sample 7 releases of Two Brewers whisky, including the latest batches: 35, 36, 37, 38, and 39!

Saturday, June 10, 5PM

Spring Single Malt Festival Spectacular

• Date: Thursday, June 15
• Time:7 PM
• Cost: $75
• FESTIVAL

It is hard to believe, but the last Spring Single Malt Festival was way back in June of 2019… So this is our 9th annual (ish) spring festival of all things malt whisky, though it would have been the 12th, if… you know… so we’ve added the word Spectacular for no specific reason because… why not! It will feature at least 100 single malts from Scotland & around the world, and as always it includes a KWM logo tasting glass. This event sells out quickly, so don’t hesitate… when it is sold out, it is sold out!

Thursday, June 15, 7 PM

Sipping Signatory in the Summer – 140 Years

• Date: Tuesday, July 11
• Time:7 PM
• Cost: $70
• VIRTUAL TASTING

We’re suckers for Signatory, especially the older Cask Strength Collection bottlings, so we’ve put together a selection of recently arrived Signatory Vintage malts with a combined 140 years of maturation. On the younger side, we are diving head first into first-fill sherry with the Edradour 10 Year, Linkwood 2012, and Benrines 2010. On the Cask Strength side, we have Benrinnes 1996, Dailuaine 1997, Glenrothes 1996, and an Unnamed Islay 1990 bottling (*cough Laphroaig*).

Tuesday, July 11th, 2023 @ 7 PM

Compass Box New & Old with Scott Ellis

• Date: Tuesday, July 18
• Time:7 PM
• Cost: $60
• VIRTUAL TASTING

With the arrival of three new limited edition Compass Box whiskies, the time is right for a Compass Box range tasting. So we have recruited Compass Box’s Scott Ellis, and we’ve pulled together a range of 8 whiskies. We’ll sample 3 different bottlings of Flaming Heart, both releases of The Circle, Ultramarine, Vellichor and one other.

Tuesday, July 18, 7PM

Daftmill Vertical Tasting

• Date: Tuesday, July 25
• Time:7 PM
• Cost: $50
• VIRTUAL TASTING

It has taken us a while, almost 3 years to be precise, but we have finally cobbled together enough bottlings of Daftmill for a range tasting… true, it is only 6, but how many of you can say you’ve done a vertical of Daftmill whiskies? The tasting will consist of 2007, 2009, and a pair of 2008s, as well as our 2008 KWM Cask, and the newly arrived 15-Year Cask Strength. Andrew is visiting the distillery in the weeks before the tasting, and will no doubt have some photos to share.

Tuesday, July 25th, 2023 @ 7 PM

Nothing but North Star Whiskies

• Date: Tuesday, August 1
• Time:7 PM
• Cost: $90
• VIRTUAL TASTING

You had us at 31-year-old GlenDronach… We recently received some cool new releases from Iain Croucher at North Star Spirits, and we can’t resist the temptation to try them. On the young side of things, there is the new Tarot Blend, a Campbeltown Blended Malt, and only the second-ever bottling from Dalmunach. We love a good Blair Athol, and how often do you see an indie bottle of Dalwhinnie? But the icing on the cake of this tasting will be the GlenDronach 31 Year. You almost never see indie GlenDronach, and this one has some great reviews!

Tuesday, August 1st, 2023 @ 7 PM

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.

We are expecting high demand for delivery after the sale so please be patient!

403-283-8000

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.

The Kensington Wine Market | 1257 Kensington Road NW, Calgary, Alberta T2N 3P8 Canada

Gordon & MacPhail to transform Elgin town centre shop into whisky tourist attraction

by Paul Mclean

HEAVY VAPOURS

ARDBEG DAY 2023

70cl | 46% ABV

This limited edition Islay single malt was launched to celebrate Ardbeg Day 2023. This experimental whisky was distilled without using Ardbeg’s copper purifier, ensuring that bolder, heavier compounds passed through the distillation process. This distorts the usual balance between fruit, sweetness and smoke, whilst accentuating the smoky and oily character of Ardbeg.

 NOSE​​

Smoke rises with a cloying sweetness. Intense, pungent and aromatic, a distinctive farmyard scent drifts, along with a crunchy aroma, like creosote or tarry rope. A splash of water disturbs the vapours and dark chocolate cream billows, laced with a ribbon of smoked artichoke.

PALATE​

A burst of bitter-sweetness surges, disturbing ashy coal dust and casting a haze of cardamom, peppermint and coffee grits. Clouds of dark chocolate and mentholic eucalyptus roll in, obscuring the fruit and floral notes usually found at the heart of Ardbeg. Wisps of aniseed twists, cinnamon balls and antiseptic lozenges float on the palate.

FINISH​

The aftertaste lingers long and bold, with an almost anaesthetising sensation.

£119.95

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