ULTIMATE SPIRITS CHALLENGE^® 2023 Results Announced

June 12, 2023 (Hawthorne, NY) – Ultimate Spirits Challenge (USC), since 2010 the world’s most prestigious global spirits competition, today releases the results of the 2023 Challenge. USC 2023 proved to be the fourteenth consecutive year of record submissions. Entries arrived from more than 50 spirit-producing nations.

The judging, held through May and early June, determined 68 Chairman’s Trophy winners, 300 Finalists, and 514 Great Values. As always, USC was conducted at the custom-designed Ultimate Beverage Challenge (UBC) Evaluation Center, located in Hawthorne, NY.

Says UBC Co-Founder and Judging Director F. Paul Pacult, “Aside from being the largest USC ever, this year’s Challenge was likewise the most global, with an impressive array of quality distillates from places as far away from New York as China, Australia, India, Kazakhstan, and Chile. Virtually all categories saw healthy gains and all whiskey categories.

“Since producers tend to enter their top-shelf marques into USC, it’s clear that they look to us for the most accurate and unbiased data in the industry.”

After undergoing careful analysis through multiple panels, all products are rated on the 100-point scale by the spirits industry’s most renowned judges including buyers, journalists, educators, authors, and bar owners. Spirits scoring 85+ points receive a detailed tasting note. All spirits scoring 80+ points receive an individual results page, which provides all downloadable marketing material.

View complete results at www.ultimate-beverage.com/usc2023results

ULTIMATE SPIRITS CHALLENGE 2023 CHAIRMAN’S TROPHY WINNERS

READY-TO-DRINK COCKTAIL

Whiskey: Witherspoon Whiskey Old Fashioned

WHISKY – CANADA

Crown Royal Extra Rare 29 Years Old

WHISKEY – IRELAND

Blended: Midleton Very Rare Vintage Release 2023

Single Malt: Teeling Blackpitts Peated

Single Pot Still: Red Spot 15 Years Old

WHISKY –JAPAN

Hayashi 24 Years Old Ryukyu

 WHISKY – SCOTLAND

Blended: Dewar’s 18 Years Old

Blended Malt: Johnnie Walker Green Label

Independent Merchant: The Scotch Malt Whisky Society Cask No. 78.58 Baking easter treats 9 Years Old

Single Malt-Highland: Aberfeldy Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon Cask Finish 15 Years Old

Single Malt-Island: Highland Park 21 Years Old

Single Malt-Islay: Bowmore 18 Years Old

Single Malt-Speyside: Mortlach 16 Years Old

WHISKEY – USA

Bottled-In-Bond: Henry McKenna 10 Years Old Single Barrel

Blended: Old Elk Wheat N’ Rye

Bourbon: W.L. Weller Full Proof

Flavored: Ole Smoky Apple Pie Tennessee Moonshine

Rye: Tumblin’ Dice Rye Small Batch, Barrel Proof 7 Years Old

Single Barrel: Bower Hill Bourbon

Single Malt: Courage & Conviction Sherry Cask

Tennessee: George Dickel Reserve Cask Strength 17 Years Old

Wheat: Bainbridge Battle Point Two Islands Hokkaido Mizunara Cask

Other: Barrell Private Release Whiskey Finished in a Pedro Ximenez Sherry Barrel

WHISK(E)Y – WORLD

M&H APEX Dead Sea Single Malt

ULTIMATE SPIRITS CHALLENGE…No shortcuts. Just honest, impartial judging.

ABOUT ULTIMATE BEVERAGE CHALLENGE

Ultimate Beverage Challenge (UBC) provides expert evaluation of spirits for producers, importers, and marketers through its innovative annual competition: Ultimate Spirits Challenge. UBC partners are F. Paul Pacult, Sue Woodley and David Talbot.

WIN A RARE SINGLE CASK
GLENFIDDICH 25 YEAR OLD

To celebrate the latest addition to the Glenfiddich Grand Series – the 29-year-old awamori cask finished Grand Yozakura – we’re offering a chance to take home an exceptionally rare expression from this venerable Speyside distillery. The prize is a 25-year-old Glenfiddich bottled exclusively for the lucky winner of the draw. All you have to do to enter is buy any Grand Series whisky and you’ll be in with a chance to win.

Every Glenfiddich Grand Series bottle ordered in the month of June is an entry into the draw. Entries will close at 11.59pm on 30 June 2023. Good luck!

SHOP GLENFIDDICH GRAND SERIES

LAPHROAIG

10 YEAR OLD
SHERRY OAK FINISH

70CL | 48% ~ £51.95 ~ WAS £61.95 ~ SAVE £10

SHOP NOW

Classic powerful and peaty 10-year-old Laphroaig single malt aged for most of its life in ex-bourbon casks before a finishing period spent in ex-oloroso sherry casks to create the perfect marriage of sherry and smoke.

Kensington Wine Market’s E-Whisky Newsletter

As North America’s first Ardbeg Embassy, we are thrilled to have the privilege of launching the 2023 Ardbeg Day release Heavy Vapours. The KWM whisky team helped kick off this year’s celebrations in-store on June 3 with some Master Classes and the main event at Hayden Block. And we are now excited to announce that the Ardbeg Heavy Vapours is available for sale in-store and online now while supplies last. More on that below… but please read on before jumping ahead.

Before we get to the Ardbeg Heavy Vapours, and the handful of other tidbits in today’s Malt Messenger Bulletin, please be aware of the following. To be the first to hear about future Ardbeg Embassy releases available from Kensington Wine Market, you will need to be a registered Ardbeg Committee member. Future release emails may come direct from Ardbeg and will direct you to an Ardbeg Alberta website for your respective embassy.

If you aren’t already an Ardbeg Committee Member, you can join in just a couple of minutes online

As we are already talking Ardbeg, we’ve highlighted the rest of the Ardbeg core range too, as well as one other limited (online only) release we have a few bottles of…

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 – Ardbeg Embassy

Ardbeg Heavy Vapours Is Here!

The 2023 Ardbeg Day special release, Heavy Vapours, is bottled at 46%, from a parcel of spirit made without Ardbeg’s spirit purifier.

Producer Description

“A missing purifier. A dram forsaken. Who will restore the balance? Something weird has been going down at the Distillery. The legendary purifier on the still – responsible for Ardbeg’s exalted balance – is nowhere to be seen. And this whisky – Ardbeg Heavy Vapours – is the consequence. The familiar harmony between peat and floral fruitiness has been disrupted. What have risen are the untamed darker flavours and notes, gathering and filling the senses. It is an ominous dram of dramatic, aromatic pungency. Heavy Vapours will rise. Non chill-filtered at 46% ABV.”

Ardbeg Heavy Vapours – 46% – Producer Tasting Note: “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: Ardbeg’s untamed darker flavours and notes have risen. A burst of bittersweetness 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.” – $175+gst (no discounts) – Limit 1 Per Customer!

Other Ardbegs Available

Details on all these glorious malts can be found on our website by clicking the links.

The Ardbeg 8 Years old For Discussion is limited to 1 per customer and is available online only on a first come first serve basis.

The core range of Ardbeg Single Malts is on sale, at 15-25% off, but today only…

1. Ardbeg 8 Years Old For Discussion – $108+gst – Limit 1 Per Customer / Online purchases only!
2. Ardbeg 10 Year – Retail: $94 – Save 15% – Today Only: $79.89+gst
3. Ardbeg Corryvreckan – Retail: $148 – Save 15% – Today Only: $125.79+gst
4. Ardbeg Uigeadail – Retail: $133 – Save 15% – Today Only: $113.04+gst

Ardbeg Wee Beastie – Retail: $81 – Save 25% – Today Only: $60.74+gst

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.

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

Today is National Bourbon Day, a day to celebrate the uniquely American spirit that is beloved by many. At The Party Source, we offer a wide selection of bourbons from top brands, as well as some lesser-known gems that are sure to become your new favorites. Whether you’re a bourbon connoisseur or just starting to explore the world of whiskey, we have something for everyone. Come raise a glass with us and toast to National Bourbon Day!

Shop & Sip

The Party Source | 95 Riviera Drive, Bellevue, KY 41073

 

DISCOVER DEANSTON

Housed in a former cotton mill in the central Highlands, Deanston distillery dates all the way back to the eighteenth century. Known for its light, nutty and malty style of spirit, the distillery’s core range is predominantly matured in ex-bourbon casks, dialling up Deanston’s trademark tropical fruit and honey character. While Deanston’s limited edition and distillery exclusive releases explore the influence of experimental casks such as Marsala wine, Calvados, and Tequila.

Whether you’re already a fan of Deanston single malt, it’s on your list to try or you’re looking for an impressive Father’s Day gift, it’s an ideal time to grab yourself a bottle as we’re offering two prize bundles filled with a whole host of distillery merchandise and our Whisky of the Year 2022, Deanston 18 Year Old. Simply order one of our selected bottles from the Deanston range – a few highlights below – before 30 June to enter.

 SHOP DEANSTON 

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.

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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!

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