Widely considered one of the best Canadian whiskies on the market, Pike Creek 10 Year Old is a warming dram finished in rum barrels with layers of dried fruit, toffee and rye spice.
1993 Springbank 25 Year Old “The Perfect Fifth” First Fill Sherry Butt No. 315 Cask Strength Single Malt Campbeltown Scotch Whisky (750ml)
$1,500.00
An absolute gem in the Perfect Fifth line up. At 96 points it’s close to the legendary Highland Park they’ve also bottled, but for half the price. Jim Murray says, “Anyone who remembers the old Springbank 25-year-olds of the early 1990s will recognize this aroma as a direct descendent – indeed it is near enough identical in both weight and character. The huge, nuggety oak is faultless (this must have come from a cask which had been seasoned in the old – virtually lost – style). Salt dominates but there are dried apricots and spiced pear, too. Meanwhile the vaguest of peaty notes (and I mean the odd atom here and there!) teases away as a barely audible background noise, which automatically becomes louder the moment you spot it. Taste: A malt on the threshold of perhaps dallying too closely with the oak. But that coastal-style bite makes just the right contact with the salty tannins and cocoa-laden phenol to make a course for more complex and satisfying port. Just enough oil makes the middle rich and promises a long finale. Finish: Drier, as is to be expected, as the tannins raise their game. Still salty, but a little barley sugar and lemon juice lightens the intensity, though – happily, but not too much; the residual oils ensure the finish is of extraordinary length. Balance: A real return to the past here with Springbank in its most full-bodied, uncompromising and complex style which those of us who discovered the distillery in the 1980s remember with great affection.”
Email: wine@klwines.com
Phone: (877) KL-WINES (Toll Free 877.559.4637)
K&L Wine Merchants 3005 El Camino Real Redwood City, CA 94061 USA
San Francisco, Redwood City, Hollywood CA
Commanding smoke, indulgent Oloroso
Islay single malt Williamson 10 Year Old joins the Milroy’s line-up
We’ve teamed up with Berry Bros. & Rudd for our latest exclusive bottling – a thunderous dram from the iconic isle.
We’re proud to source thrilling releases from the world of spirits, bottling them exclusively to share. Our latest find is here: the unapologetically bold Williamson 10 Year Old Oloroso Finish.
For this expression, we joined forces with fellow London drinks merchants Berry Bros. & Rudd. While we can’t share exactly which Islay producer it came from, those in the know will certainly recognise its ‘trade name’.
What we can say is that it’s a stunning release. Its ashy spirit pairs perfectly with rich fruits for a sumptuous Islay drinking experience. From powerful smoke to elegant spices, it’s a dram with a lot to say. Try a dram at our Soho bar or secure your bottle today.
– Wolfcraig 14 Year Old Deluxe Blend –
The second release from Wolfcraig’s rare and aged Premium Blend series
Revealing the new bespoke Wolfcraig bottle design with a tactile diamond emboss
The inaugural Wolfcraig label to feature the signatures from the ultimate partnership of Master Blenders
Launching in August 2023, RRP £80
Master Blender Notes
by Richard Paterson and Ian Macmillan
An outstanding premium blended whisky with a minimum age of 14 years old, crafted with freshly emptied bourbon barrels along with aged sherries from Amontillado, PX and Muscatel from Bodega San Andreas.
Another aged expression from Wolfcraig which must be sipped and savoured and held long in the mouth to appreciate these enticing flavours.
Nose
Warm and appealing.
Enchanting and exhilarating as gentle hints of sunkissed raisins, fresh peaches, tangerines and lemon grass evoke a sense of tranquility as they pleasingly drift in perfect harmony.
Exciting aromas quickly follow on with nuances of creamy caramel and vanilla delicately dance in the background to complete this portrait of beauty.
More information on the Wolfcraig 14 Year Old Deluxe Blend and how to get your hands on it will be released soon. As always, please get in touch with any questions on info@wolfcraig.com.
Slainte mhath,
The Wolfcraig Team
A 2005 vintage first fill sherry hogshead #14600206 bottled exclusively for the UK market in June 2022. Yielding just 315 bottles at 57.1% this has a beautifully rich colour, complimented by a profile of fruitcake, apples and milk chocolate followed by orange marmalade, stewed summer berries, and a light spice and citrus.
Classic sherried Speyside
Shop – Glen Grant 16yo – £142.80 | u$152 | €139
Glen Grant 16 Year Old 2005 vintage Speyside single malt Scotch whisky. Single cask refill fill sherry hogshead #14600206 bottled June 2022 for the United Kingdom market by Gordon & MacPhail for the Connoisseurs Choice series. 315 bottles.
Nose: Light fruitcake aromas accompanied by nutmeg, red apple and milk chocolate.
Taste: Smooth and rich orange marmalade flavours. Stewed summer berries give eay to hints of commee bean and toasted oak.
Finish: Medium, spicy with lingering oak and citrus.
Established in 1840 by brothers James and John Grant, the business prospered and in 1897 Glen Grant No. 2 Distillery was established across the road in order to meet the high demand for Glen Grant whiskey. During the late nineteenth century a Victorian garden was laid out in the valley behind the distillery and is now open to distillery visitors. Glen Grant is a Speyside malt whiskey distillery situated in Rothes equipped with eight stills and an on-site bottling plant. Gordon & MacPhail has released some rare vintage single malts dating back to the 1950s.
Scotch Whisky
The Whisky Magazine Annual
Get ready to dive into the 3rd edition of Scotch Whisky, packed with distillery focus features, blind tasting reviews, and interviews with leading figures in the Scotch whisky world. In this year’s edition, look behind the scenes at Torabhaig Distillery and Glasgow Distillery, tour the Johnnie Walker Princes Street experience, and read about F1 champion Jenson Button’s Scotch whisky project. Created by the team behind Whisky Magazine, Scotch Whisky is a valuable addition to any whisky lover’s bookshelf.
Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour® Adds Four New Distilleries to Amber Adventure
Kentucky Distillers Continue to Build New Bourbon Experiences and Tourism Across the State
FRANKFORT, Ky. — The Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour® is embarking on its largest expansion in its history, welcoming four distilleries to the nation’s premier adventure showcasing micro-distilling craftsmanship, the Kentucky Distillers’ Association announced today.
The newest additions include two in Northern Kentucky, and two in Lexington:
Augusta Distillery | 207 Seminary Ave., Augusta, Ky. | augustakydistillery.com
Fresh Bourbon | 377 E Main St., Suite 100, Lexington, Ky. | freshbourbon.com
Pensive Distilling Co. | 720 Monmouth St., Newport, Ky. | pensivedistilling.com
RD1 Spirits | 1170 Manchester St., Suite 190, Lexington, Ky | rd1spirits.com
KDA President Eric Gregory said the new members swell the ranks of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour® to an all-time high of 28 distilleries. The KDA created the statewide journey in 2012 as the nation’s first attraction to feature the burgeoning boutique distilling movement, and more than a decade later, its impact continues to grow, bringing all the benefits of the Bourbon economy with it.
Coupled with the 18 larger-scale distilleries on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® tour, the KDA now boasts a record 46 immersive experiences for Bourbon and spirits lovers to enjoy when visiting the Bluegrass state. The KDA founded the Kentucky Bourbon Trail® in 1999.
“Our Kentucky Bourbon Trail® experiences continue to elevate and grow tourism at an astounding pace, educating visitors from around the world about our signature spirit and pouring millions of dollars of revenue into local communities and coffers,” Gregory said. “In the last 10 years, attendance has skyrocketed by a phenomenal 370%. The diversity of experiences available at these new stops is outstanding — from secret speakeasies to pairings of delicious Bourbon and bites all the way to full dining experiences. Bourbon has really proven itself over the last couple of decades and has enabled many communities to be a part of its growth. We’re thrilled to welcome these four new distilleries to our amber adventure and encourage visitors to discover the intriguing experiences that each of them has to offer.”
Augusta Distillery Founder and Board Vice Chairman Judd Weiss said, “Being included on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour® puts Augusta Distillery in an even better position to share our charming town, distillery and award-winning Bourbon.”
Fresh Bourbon Distillery Founder Tia Edwards expressed excitement to being added as a destination on the Craft Tour. “We believe in bringing a unique approach to the Kentucky Bourbon experience by hosting guests in our elegant distillery and having them experience Bourbon luxury.”
Pensive Distilling Co. owner Scott Quigley said that joining the Craft Tour shines a spotlight on their establishment and helps grow tourism in Northern Kentucky. “The Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour® spreads our open invitation for all to come and enjoy Newport and the Pensive experience.”
RD1 Vice President of Marketing Chris Tetterton said, “It is an awesome privilege to be a part of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour. This group of distilleries tells the story of America’s native spirit along with the proud history, tradition, and future of Kentucky’s leading role in Bourbon.”
About the Kentucky Distillers’ Association:
Founded in 1880, the Kentucky Distillers’ Association is the legendary voice for Kentucky’s signature Bourbon and distilled spirits industry. Its diverse and growing membership produces the overwhelming majority of the world’s Bourbon, from historic, global brands to emerging micro distilleries that are fostering the next generation of the Commonwealth’s landmark economic engine and its thriving, timeless craft. Member benefits include media relations, international trade development, private sampling events, technical assistance, economic development support, networking, legal defense, marketing strategies, governmental and regulatory advocacy and innovative tourism experiences through the KDA’s world-famous Kentucky Bourbon Trail® and Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour® adventures. A 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization, the KDA maintains an open membership policy, champions a strong commitment to the responsible and moderate consumption of spirits, and fights to curb underage drinking and drunk driving. Learn more at www.kybourbon.com and www.kybourbontrail.com.
KENTUCKY BOURBON TRAIL®, KENTUCKY BOURBON TRAIL CRAFT TOUR®, KENTUCKY BOURBON AFFAIR™, KBT®, BOURBON TRAIL™ and KENTUCKY BOURBON HALL OF FAME® are trademarks/service marks owned by the Kentucky Distillers’ Association.
New Releases from Port Charlotte
Port Charlotte PMC:01 is a story of place. The sixth release in Bruichladdichs’ Cask Exploration series, the 2013 vintage has been profoundly influenced by the rich, fruit-laden oak of Pomerol wine casks – adding depth and complexity to this single malt. Balancing peat smoke with subtle floral and fruit notes, this PMC:01 2013 vintage has been conceived, distilled, matured and bottled only on Islay. Bordeaux is a region with a close-knit community and renowned for its exceptional red wines, it has a distinct sense of place which directly influences the flavour of its grapes. The wines proudly speak of their point of origin, harnessing the warm climate and famous blue clay, gravel and sand of the appellation to impart a fresh yet rich silkiness.
Tasting Notes:
Nose: Classic Islay salty maritime notes entwined with rich peat smoke, red fruits, honey, leather, and a touch of clove.
Palate: A mixed melody of fruit, including pears, blackberries, stewed plums, vanilla, melon and ginger, with a touch of marzipan.
Finish: Smoke and salinity linger with cooked cherries.
Port Charlotte SC:01 2012 combines the distillery’s two greatest obsessions. Port Charlotte SC:01 marries impeccable provenance with high-quality French oak. For the first time in their cask exploration series, this release contains 100% Islay grown barley. Malted to 40ppm by maltsters on the Scottish mainland, it is returned home to be distilled through tall narrow-necked stills for ultimate elegance and finesse, before taking three separate paths in its maturation journey. A combination of sherry butts and first and second fill American whiskey barrels were recasked at different points of maturation into some of the finest Sauternes wine casks from Bordeaux. The result is a complex recipe which culminates in a classic example of peated single malt.
Tasting Notes:
Nose: Dried white grapes, fresh flowers, roasted peanuts, a hint of dusty oak and earthy, green notes.
Palate: Ginger spices, almonds, cassia, orange peel, brown sugar, sultana, and red chilli flake.
Finish: Vanilla and a touch of cigar box.
‘THRILL ENGINEER’ HELPS WHISKY CLUB SPICE THINGS UP WITH EXPERIMENTAL CHILLI-INFUSED SPIRIT
Professor Brendan Walker helps The Scotch Malt Whisky Society explore extraordinary new chilli-infused spirit that you can mix in cocktails, sip if you’re brave enough or even cook with!
Some like it hot: Thrill Engineer, Professor Brendan Walker, pic by Dave Parry. Bottle with chillies pic by Mike Wilkinson
This summer, a maverick whisky club is turning up the heat with the release of Exp.01, a limited-edition new chilli-infused drink resulting from an experiment that saw 100 fresh red Scotch Bonnet chillies matured in a cask of Scotch whisky for 17 years.
For the experiment, The Scotch Malt Whisky Society (SMWS) added around 100 sliced chillies to a cask of 10-year-old single malt – in doing so, stripping it of its title as a Scotch whisky. The curious concoction was then left to mature for a further 17 years before being bottled as the spicy spirit it is today.
At 55.6% abv and bottled in 10cl hot-sauce sized miniatures, Exp.01 packs a peppery punch with hints of ‘sweet paprika’. The Society is encouraging adventurous flavour explorers to continue the experiment at home, by adding the spicy spirit to summer cocktails, cooking with it like a hot sauce or marinade, or sipping it neat.
The SMWS created the experimental spirit as part of its 40th-anniversary year celebrations, during which it is staging various events and releasing special editions, all inspired by the maverick attitude of its founder Pip Hills.
Professor Brendan Walker, the world’s only ‘Thrill Engineer’ – who focuses on examining and constructing emotional experiences – was called upon to investigate the Society’s unusual experiment and the tasting experience.
Walker, whose previous work has included designing theme park rides such as Th13teen at Alton Towers, said: “After around 17 years of infusion, The Scotch Malt Whisky Society asked me to investigate their experiment. What could be more exciting than being asked to explore two components of known high quality – a Scotch-in-the-making plus 100 fresh red Scotch Bonnet chillies?
“The methanol and aromatic higher alcohols found in whisky immediately trigger the release of dopamine. Chilli contains capsaicin and in small amounts, capsaicin has a pleasurable, warming, peppery effect. Capsaicin can also trigger the release of endorphins for endurance, and dopamine to reward surviving such an ordeal.
“This concoction of whisky and chilli has the most psychotropic thrilling potential. My initial tasting made me say ‘wow!’, and then smile – a genuine mini-euphoric moment for any connoisseur of thrill. There’s a whole roller coaster of experience being played out on a micro scale, over milliseconds, right there on your tongue
“It’s not just the resulting liquid of Exp.01 that I find amazing – with its smooth, sweet consistency and initial peppery chilli kick. What’s most exciting for me is the Society’s spirit of experimentation. This captures my imagination. Try it in a cocktail, splash it into a creamy sauce for haggis, or pipette a single drop onto your tongue, then feel your mind and body explode with excitement.”
James Freeman, the Society’s Executive Chef, has also created special recipes that showcase the spirit’s culinary potential, including mussels with tomato, anchovies and Exp.01, a teriyaki salmon dish and an incredible chocolate and Exp.01 tart. Meanwhile, SMWS ambassador Logan Shaw recommends mixing the spirit with tonic water, ice, lime and sea salt to create a fiery highball cocktail.
No stranger to the Society, Professor Brendan Walker collaborated with the SMWS in 2022 for their Memory Box campaign, in which tasting Society whisky evoked fond memories and happy moments. The campaign was unveiled to wide-eyed whisky fans at London and Glasgow whisky festivals, with Walker present to guide guests through their journey of nostalgia.
Helen Stewart, Head of Brand Marketing & Membership, said: “In our 40th and most adventurous year yet, this kind of cask experiment is a great example of the fun we have with whisky. We did this simply for the thrill of it to discover what would happen – and we’re excited to share the results of the experiment with everyone and we’d encourage people to have fun with it whether using it in cocktails, cooking recipes or simply sipping it.
“Brendan’s expert knowledge of how people react to thrills and excitement was key to this experiment. His investigations have helped explore the tasting experience and explain what’s happening in the mouth when people taste it.”
Founded in Edinburgh in 1983 by maverick whisky-lover Pip Hills, the SMWS is now the world’s largest whisky club, with close to 40,000 adventurous and discerning members across the globe, all united by a passion for flavour and exquisitely crafted liquid.
Exp.01 is available while stocks last from 26th July as part of a special new Society membership offer: https://smws.com/complimentary-exp01-offer/
About The Scotch Malt Whisky Society (SMWS)
For more information about the Society, visit: https://smws.com/, Twitter: @SMWSUK Facebook: @thesmwsuk Instagram: @smws_uk
About The Artisanal Spirits Company (ASC)
“We love the annual release of our 11yr old. This wonderful unpeated single malt is a delight to drink and perfect for sharing with friends. Having won plenty of industry awards over the years, The 11 Year Old is definitely worthy of a spot in your drinks cabinet.”
Andrew Nelstrop, Chairman
Non chill filtered. Natural colouring.
TASTING NOTES
