Gordon & MacPhail unveils oldest Longmorn single malts ever released

’Twin’ Longmorn whiskies selected by identical twins from Gordon & MacPhail’s owning family

Single malt Scotch whisky creator Gordon & MacPhail is releasing two decanters as part of its ‘Private Collection’, single cask releases personally selected by members of the family that owns the company.

The ‘twin’ whiskies – the oldest Longmorn single malts ever released – were selected for bottling by identical twin brothers Stuart and Richard Urquhart from stock originally laid down to mature by their grandfather George Urquhart in 1961.

Sold as a pair, only 97 sets of twin decanters are available worldwide with a UK recommended sales price (RSP) of £30,000. Both single malts were matured in first fill Sherry hogsheads and bottled at cask strength. Richard Urquhart’s whisky from the European Oak Cask 508 was bottled at 45% abv, while the whisky from American Oak Cask 512, selected by Stuart Urquhart, was bottled at 40.8% abv.

Each individually numbered hand-blown decanter of Longmorn is beautifully presented in award-winning packaging, which includes a book written by renowned writer and rare whisky specialist, Jonny McCormick, along with a personally signed certificate of authenticity from each brother.

The Longmorn twin casks offer a unique opportunity to explore the effects of different oak types on spirit during maturation.

The whisky selected by Richard Urquhart, nurtured in European Oak, is mahogany with red highlights; it has a rich, abundant nose, with complex aromatic flavours and perfumed top notes.

The whisky selected by Stuart Urquhart is slightly lighter in colour, rich chestnut with ruby and amber highlights. Matured in American Oak, it is sweeter on the nose and fruity on the palate with notes of black cherry, raspberry, and dried vanilla.

Stephen Rankin, Gordon & MacPhail’s Director of Prestige, fourth generation member of the Urquhart family and himself a father of twins, said: “This is a unique and exclusive opportunity to taste a remarkable piece of Scotland’s liquid history. Owners of these twin decanters will be able to explore the similarities and nuances of the oldest Longmorn single malt Scotch whiskies ever bottled.”

Stuart Urquhart, Gordon & MacPhail’s Associate Director of Whisky Supply, added: “As someone whose day-job is applying the family’s knowledge of how to match spirit with the perfect cask, the nuances of our Longmorns, distilled 57 years ago, were especially intriguing. For example, the whisky I selected has a slightly spicier finish.”

Richard Urquhart, Gordon & MacPhail’s International Sales Manager for Asia & Americas, said: “For much of our lives, Stuart and I have shared similar environments, growing up together and sailing competitively as a team, as well as working under the same roof. However, as we’ve matured it’s intriguing to see how our individual characters, much like the whiskies, have differed.”

To mark the launch, Professor David Purdie, a fellow of the Royal College of Physicians, has worked with Gordon & MacPhail to uncover what shapes character in twins – the effect of heritage, environment, and location.

Professor Purdie said: “It is remarkable to observe how the identical spirit filled into the casks all those years ago has been altered by the natural environment of the casks themselves – one crafted from European Oak and the other from American Oak.

“Just like twins who start life at the same time and place, each whisky has then been shaped and developed by a multitude of separate factors to create these subtle differences.”

For more information, please visit www.gordonandmacphail.com.

#GordonandMacPhail

Notes

Images shows Stuart (left) and Richard Urquhart and Longmorn.

In two three-minute ‘twin’ films, Professor Purdie meets Gordon & MacPhail’s Director of Prestige, Stephen Rankin, to explore the subject of human twins and ‘twin whiskies’ www.gordonandmacphail.com/longmorns.

The twin decanters complete the release of four extremely rare single cask bottlings unveiled as part of the ‘Private Collection’ range. The first, Private Collection Glenlivet 1943 by Gordon & MacPhail, a rare wartime cask, was released in October 2017 and the second, Private Collection from Linkwood Distillery 1956 by Gordon & MacPhail, was released in February 2018.

Gordon & MacPhail Whiskies

Established in 1895, family-owned Gordon & MacPhail is curator of some of the world’s finest and rarest single malt Scotch whiskies from over 100 distilleries. Four generations of the Urquhart family have continued to pursue the perfect partnership between spirit and cask.

Since its foundation, Gordon & MacPhail has carefully matched spirit to the highest quality oak casks which are sent to distilleries throughout Scotland, filled with new-make spirit, and matured either at the distillery of origin or in the firm’s own bonded warehouses in Elgin.

It is this simple but endlessly complex pairing that creates an intriguing and unique portfolio of expressions – single malts that Scotch whisky lovers will not find anywhere else.

In 2018, the company unveiled its new portfolio:

• Discovery – Utterly dependable, this flavour-led range is the perfect introduction to our portfolio of quality single malt Scotch whiskies.
• Distillery Labels – A range celebrating our long-standing relationships with Scotland’s distilleries.
• Connoisseurs Choice – The heart of our portfolio – always unique, these non-chill-filtered, natural coloured, small batch expressions are genuine one-offs.
• Private Collection – Greatly-aged single malts from celebrated, little-known, or closed distilleries specially selected by members of the Urquhart family.
• Generations – A prestigious collection of old, rare, and exclusive masterpieces.

Hi everyone its been some time since we had a major release like this one so sit back and take your time reading through the lists. This release is a two parter with a stunning collection of single cask malts followed by the latest Rum release by Cadenhead’s.

Lets look at a few of the latest releases from the single malt range, from the history of the distillery to the latest bottling.

Aultmore

First off the block is Aultmore distillery always a firm favourite here in the London shop. The Distillery was established in 1896 by Alexandre Edward who had a few other distilleries under his kilt! (Lets assume he wore one) including Benrinnes and Craigallachie! Another two distilleries we love here in London. After full production started at Aultmore around 1897 its output was soon doubled.

Around 1923/4 the distillery is sold to John Dewar & Son then after several decades of changes and mergers we reach the early 1970’s. The number of pot stills are doubled from 2 to 4 during a rebuild of the distillery.

As demand for the top quality distillate increased for the Blending market so did interest from Malt whisky drinkers. Its one of those best kept secret whiskies that those who have tried it in the past came back for more each time letting more people in on the secret.

Tullibardine

Next lets look at Tullibardine another distillery thats been kept secret by some malt fans with more people finding it around the whisky world its now become a must have here in London.

The distillery was founded 1949 by Delmé-Evans soon afterwards it was sold on to Brodie Hepburn Ltd, between 1971 to 1993 work continued as did a few changes inc ownership! In 1994 the distillery was mothballed until around 2003 due to social and economic conditions many distilleries closed for a short time some for ever and other for a few years.

Thankfully Tullibardine is now open producing a smooth delicate yet flavoursome single malt that has quality through its core.

We often use Tullibardine in the tasting room with some great feedback from fans of Lowland and Highland styles.

THE NEW RANGE​!

Single Cask Whisky Range September 2018

 AULTMORE 1997 21 Years Old 52.1% 70CL Speyside Single Cask

NOSE: oranges, vanilla, marshmallows, foam bananas, toffee yoghurt and pine needles.

PALATE: Very fresh, juicy fruits, gooseberries, peaches, kiwi and mango. Clotted cream, mashed bananas and lemon curd.

FINISH: Delicate creamy fruits with hints of pebble beaches and honeycomb.

BENRIACH 2008 10 Years Old 56.5% 70CL Speyside Single Cask

NOSE: Creme brûlée, hints of white pepper, hard boiled sweets, toffee popcorn and all spice.

PALATE: Baked apples, fresh ginger, toffee, brown sugar, over ripe bananas, lemon olive oil and faint hint of oily smoke.

FINISH: Lingering creamy notes with kiwi and green apple skins.

CANADIAN 1985 32 Years Old 62.1% VOL – 70CL – Canadian Single Barrel

Nose: Spicy rye notes, buttered biscuits, lemon drizzle cake with peaches, raisin butter and honey.

Taste: Thick and chewy, warming spices, cayenne pepper, paprika and aniseed mixed with white chocolate and golden syrup.

Finish: Big wood spice, butterscotch, dried fruits, hints of salt and lots of fresh vanilla.

NOSE: Fruity and syrupy, peaches, mango with toffee sauce and barley sugar sweets.

PALATE: Pears, dried ginger, hints of nutmeg and then more flaked almonds and white chocolate.

FINISH: Lemon cheesecake with soft spice and butterscotch.

GLENBURGIE 1992 26 Years Old 50.2% VOL – 70CL – Speyside Single Cask

NOSE: Pineapple, cinnamon buns, passion fruit and traditional cloudy lemonade.

PALATE: Peaches, apricots and lashings of cream. Becoming oiler with marzipan and steamed milk.

FINISH: Long and creamy with bags and bags of fruit.

TOMATIN 2008 10 Years Old 53% VOL – 70CL – Highland Single Cask

NOSE: Fresh cut grass, engine oil, lemon grass, chives and lemon thyme.

TASTE: Coconut, buttery, shortcrust pastry, grape skins, strawberry milkshake and raspberry sauce.

FINISH: Mixed fruits in syrup with mustard seeds and lemon zest.

TULLIBARDINE 1993 25 Years Old 40.7% VOL – 70CL – Highland Single Cask

NOSE: Spearmint, rosemary and thyme followed by bubblegum and greengages.

TASTE: lemon and lime juice, more minty notes along with caramel, plums and sponge cake.

FINISH: Hints of aniseed giving way to plums, bakewell tart and toffee sauce.

TAMNAVULIN 1992 26 Years Old 51.3% VOL Speyside Single Cask

NOSE: Juicy and oily, dusty, hay lofts. Lemon meringue pie with green bananas and grapes.

PALATE: Green apple skins, dunnage warehouses, flint, almond butter, pears and hints of dry cider.

FINISH: Floral and grassy with growing satsumas, fennel and peaches

GLEN SCOTIA 1992 26 Years Old 47.3% VOL – Campbeltown Single Cask

NOSE: Oily and grassy, charcoal, soft briny notes, then custard creams and lime marmalade

PALATE: Coal dust and hints of tarmac, grenadine, olive oil, shortbread and hazelnuts.

FINISH: Initially soft and creamy, distant smoke and becoming drier and flinty.

SPEYSIDE Distillery 1994 23 Years Old 50.9% VOL – 70CL – Speyside Single Cask

NOSE: Honeycomb, geraniums and salted popcorn. With faint whiffs of blackcurrant jam.

PALATE: Ginger beer, apple crisps, faint liquorice and then gooseberries and chocolate ice cream.

FINISH: Praline, soft grassy notes and then cloves and lime zest.

And finally for the whiskies…

WILLIAM CADENHEAD SHERRY CASK MATURED BLENDED SCOTCH WHISKY 20 YEARS OLD 46% VOL

A bit of a surprise release with this rather stunning dram that will take your breath away with its amazing richness. Check the web site for the full details.

Did I say finally for the whiskies! Well we have one last addition.

We have been allocated 1 last case for 2018 of this years Springbank 21 year old. The price is the same unlike a few other sites who seem to hike the price up we will keep it at normal retail.

A few of our favourite things. Tasting room & Staff archive picks from our stack and keep back range.

We have a lot of single casks and small batch whiskies come out over the year some old some young and some mid age ranges each is unique.

LINKWOOD 11 YEARS OLD 59.3% VOL

We liked this one because its big and powerful from the bottle but leave this to sit in the glass it then becomes one of the most complex after dinner drams in its age group.

As a contrast

TOMINTOUL 11 YEARS OLD 56.1% VOL

This dram is sublime with a sweetness thats never too sweet but allows some subtle spices to come though.

Can be enjoyed from the first pour with no need to add water if you want it as an after dinner dram or let it open with a drop of water and a pre dinner dram.

So thats it for our first release of the new season.

If you want to keep up with us on instagram find us at @WHISKY1842 Have a great month from all at Cadenheads London

Cadenhead’s London

Red Fife Whisky Presale

Whisky, Whisky, Red Fife Whisky!

We are thrilled, that our small batch of whisky will be ready to be released in February 2019!  313 bottles!

We are preselling this limited Whisky…the price includes one bottle of Whisky (available in Feb 2019), with the addition of a Whisky T-shirt and tasting book…click below for more info!

PURCHASE WHISKY

262-6731 West Coast Rd
Sooke, BC, V9Z 0S9

NEW RELEASE ARDBEG TWENTY SOMETHING IS A VINTAGE FROM THE DISTILLERY’S DARKEST DAYS 

— This rare 22 Year Old whisky pays tribute to those visionaries who helped keep Ardbeg’s spirit alive. — 

In October of this year, whisky lovers will have the opportunity to experience the third release in Ardbeg’s exclusive Twenty Something collection – a superb 22 Year Old single malt bottled in honour of the handful of visionaries who helped keep the Distillery alive.

This is a whisky that was born during a time when the iconic Ardbeg Distillery name was almost consigned to the history books.  In the 1980s and 1990s, production at the Ardbeg Distillery slowed to a trickle and its future hung in the balance. However, while the stills were often empty and the filling store silent, a small number of casks were tucked away by a handful of whisky enthusiasts with the belief and vision to keep Ardbeg alive. A young Mickey Heads, now Ardbeg’s Distillery Manager, was among them.

Today, Ardbeg’s spirit endures thanks, in part, to the efforts of that small group of dreamers who believed in the Distillery. The loyal Ardbeg Committee, founded in 2000, also deserve recognition for their unwavering dedication to ensuring the doors of Ardbeg never close again. In honour of their support, it is Committee Members who will have the opportunity to experience Ardbeg Twenty Something, when a limited number of bottles go on sale in October 2018.

Mickey Heads, Ardbeg Distillery Manager, said: “A sense of immense pride, hope and a touch of idealism were key ingredients in this whisky. Created with spirit from the retired Still which now stands in the Distillery courtyard, this bottle is a magnificent reminder as to why Ardbeg should never be allowed to disappear. Ardbeg Twenty Something is for those who believed wholeheartedly in the Ardbeg Distillery, which is why it’s fitting that this rare whisky – a 22 Year Old – will be enjoyed by our loyal Committee Members, who maintain that same belief.”

Dr Bill Lumsden, Director of Distilling, Whisky Creation & Whisky Stocks at Ardbeg, went on to say: “The ex-Bourbon casks I selected for Ardbeg Twenty Something have delivered a beautiful dram, bursting with deep tropical aromas. It offers an incredibly flavourful, silky quality which is exceptional. I can think of no better way to celebrate those whisky lovers who helped keep Ardbeg alive during its darkest days.”

Ardbeg Twenty Something 2018 release will be available exclusively to Committee Members through www.ardbeg.com launching on 4^th October, RRP: £440.

#ardbeg #islay

www.ardbeg.com

Follow us on:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Ardbeg

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Ardbeg_com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ardbeg/

NOTES: 

Tasting Notes:

Casks: Ex-Bourbon

Age:                22 Years Old

ABV:                 46.4%

Colour:            Pale gold

Nose:  Luscious tropical fruits give way to sweet smoke, soot and tar.

Taste:  At first, fresh green apple with a crumble topping. Notes of peppermint tea and sweet vanilla toffee flow into white pepper, clove, aniseed and eucalyptus oil. Then finally, some salty, woody tones.

Finish: A long lingering, mouth-watering sweet smoke finish.

RRP: £440 

Ardbeg:

Ardbeg prides itself on being The Ultimate Islay Malt Whisky.  Established in 1815, Ardbeg is revered by connoisseurs around the world as the peatiest, smokiest and most complex of all the Islay malts.  Despite its smokiness, Ardbeg is renowned for its delicious sweetness, a phenomenon that has affectionately become known as ‘the peaty paradox’.  During the 1980s and 1990s, Ardbeg suffered from an uncertain future and it was not until the brand was purchased by The Glenmorangie Company in 1997 that the Distillery was saved from extinction.  Since then, the Distillery has risen like a phoenix and today Ardbeg is well established as a niche, cult malt, with a passionate following.

Ardbeg Committee:

The legacy of the whisky was safeguarded in 2000 by the formation of the Ardbeg Committee.  The Committee is made up of thousands of Ardbeg followers worldwide who are keen to ensure that “the doors of Ardbeg never close again”.  Today there are members of the Ardbeg Committee in over 130 countries.  Committee Members are regularly consulted on new bottlings and expressions and are offered exclusive Committee bottlings.  Members also receive invitations to special gatherings, tastings and events.  The Committee, chaired by Mickey Heads, is free to join at ardbeg.com.

Awards:

Ardbeg has been named ‘world whisky of the year’ more than any other smoky single malt.  Since 2008, Ardbeg has won more than 50 gold and double gold medals in key whisky competitions.  Ardbeg was voted ‘Scotch Whisky of the Year’ twice by Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible (2008, 2009) and has twice been awarded ‘World’s Best Single Malt’ at the World Whiskies Awards (2010, 2013).  At the 2014 Global Icons of Whisky Awards, Mickey Heads was voted ‘Distillery Manager of the Year’.  The following year, Ardbeg’s expressions took the top three spots in Whisky Advocate magazine’s review of the best single malt Scotch whiskies under US$100.  Ardbeg was named ‘Distillery of the Year’ for 2018 at the IWC (International Whisky Competition). Meanwhile, Ardbeg Corryvreckan, Ardbeg Uigeadail and Ardbeg An Oa have been awarded gold medals at the 2018 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

The Glenmorangie Company:

The Company is one of the most renowned and innovative distillers and marketers of Scotch whisky brands worldwide and is part of Moët Hennessy, the wine and spirits division of Moët Hennessy Louis Vuitton.  Headquartered in Edinburgh, Scotland, the Company produces Glenmorangie Single Highland Malt whisky and Ardbeg Single Islay Malt whisky.

Responsible Drinking:

Ardbeg and The Glenmorangie Company advocate responsible drinking and suggest that drinkers savour Ardbeg whiskies in moderation and in line with recommended daily guidelines for alcohol consumption.

The Whisky Barrel releases their latest exclusive bottling, an Orcadian Blended Malt Scotch Whisky. 

Specialist online whisky shop, TheWhiskyBarrel.com, is proud to release a new mystery malt. This time it is an exclusive malt from Orkney bottled by Berry Bros. & Rudd.

The Orkney Islands, located off the north coast of Scotland, are full of mystery and intrigue. There are age-old tales of Viking settlers, the striking St Magnus Cathedral (or ‘Light of the North’) and even Pictish ruins.

Berry Bros. & Rudd was founded by Widow Bourne in 1698 when she opened her first shop opposite St James’s Palace in London. Today the family-owned business is managed by the present generation of Berrys and Rudds at 3 St James’s Street, London.

Following on from the very popular exclusive St Ola ® earlier this month, TheWhiskyBarrel.com now introduces the Orkney 15 Year Old 2002 Berry Bros Exclusive #3. This whisky has a definitive, bold character. With an ABV of 56.8% and just 180 bottles at cask strength 56.8%, this malt is sure to be just as popular as the last Orcadian malt.

Available exclusively from The Whisky Barrel, shipping to customers Worldwide including the United States of America, Canada and Japan.

Orkney 15 Year Old Berry Bros Exclusive #3|2002| TheWhiskyBarrel.com| 56.8%

Tasting notes 

Colour: Warm gold.

Nose: Cigar box, leather and honey. 

Palate: A combination of dried figs, dates and prunes with peat smoke and complex floral notes. 

Finish: Notes of cloves and rich dried fruit leading to a very satisfying finish. 

Price: £79.96 GBP / $87.74 USD (+ P&P) 

Notice:-

1. Q) What is the product called?
   A)  Orkney 15 Year Old 2002 Berry Bros Exclusive #3
2. Q) When will this product be released/was it released?
   A) Wednesday 26^th September 2018
3. Q) Where is it available?
   A) Scotland, off-trade, TheWhiskyBarrel.com.Q) Is this product already available in other markets?
   A) Scotland only, TheWhiskyBarrel.com ships worldwide.

   Q) How much is it?
   A) £79.96 GBP / $87.74 USD (+ P&P)

6. Q) Who handles the product’s distribution?
   A) In-house at TheWhiskyBarrel.com.Q) What is the ABV of this product?
   A) 56.8% ABV natural cask strength.
7. Q) Why has this product been launched?
   A) Limited Edition single cask distillery exclusive for The Whisky Barrel. 

The Whisky Barrel is a specialist online whisky and spirits merchant based in Fife, Scotland and  was established in 2007. The Whisky Barrel won Whisky Magazine Online Retailer 2018 and was International Wine & Spirits Competition runner-up in 2016.

N.B. Prices correct at the time of publishing and are subject to currency fluctuation.

Compass Box Great King St Single Marrying Cask – For this limited edition offering Compass Box starts off with their Great King Street Blended Scotch Whisky. It is bottled from a single marrying cask used to mature the whisky after the initial blending. This marrying process has become a lost art over the past 100 years or so.

We used a Sherried Marrying Cask that carefully aged and enhanced this blended scotch an additional seven months. This resulted in a rich and round style typical of many Sherry finished Scotches, but solely unique to the Great King Street Artist Blend. The palate is teased with delicious notes of dark fruit, spice, and fruitcake. This is a great addition to Compass Box’s already amazing line of blended Scotch Whiskies.

COMPASS BOX BLENDED SCOTCH WHISKIES

MAKER’S MARK PRIVATE SELECT COLLABORATION

We’ve teamed up with our friends at Pompilio’s and selected an amazing barrel of Maker’s Mark Private Select – “Pomp’s Bocce Barrel“. Together we chose an excellent representation of Maker’s Mark that delivers something special.

To celebrate this outstanding selection Pompilio’s is hosting an amazing event on Saturday, September 29th, starting at 3:00 pm.

3:00 PM – Closest to the Pallina

The party starts with Closest to the Pallina games every hour until 6:00 pm. Gift Baskets for the hourly winners and grand prize winner receives a bottle of the new Maker’s Mark Private Select.

4:30 – 5:00 PM – Tasting of “Pomp’s Bocce Barrel” 
(Must have purchased a cocktail prior to tasting)

5:00 PM – Toast
This toast includes a dipped Maker’s Mark glass (RSVP required). Limited to the first 25 RSVPs. RSVP to larry@pompilios.com
(Must have purchased a cocktail prior to tasting)

Drink Special will be on hand featuring Maker’s Mark Private Select “Pomp’s Bocce Barrel”.

Bunnahabhain 18 Year Old, 46.3%

 £104.95

(Customers outside the UK please contact the shop for shipping costs)

Buy Bunnahabhain 18

Bunnahabhain is situated on the Islay. Unlike the majority of its neighbours, the distillery does not make use of exclusively heavily peated whisky. The 18 Year Old is a shop favourite, which displays a flavour profile of black cherry, honey, dried fruits and sea salt. This is a must for your whisky shelf, especially as the weather gets colder. Enjoy with oysters, dark chocolate or cheese….

New edition of Malt Whisky Yearbook

The Distillery Section completely revised with all the latest news

New exciting articles by distinguished writers such as Charles MacLean, Gavin D Smith, Neil Ridley, Jonny McCormick, Joel Harrison, Becky Paskin, Ian Buxton and Ian Wisniewski

Completely new Japanese chapter by Stefan Van Eycken

More than 250 tasting notes, including Japanese malts and independent bottlings

New feature – Whisky, the way I see it

A listing of more than 150 of the world´s greatest whisky shops

The Whisky Year That Was – the most comprehensive summary you´ll find of the news and trends in the industry

All the latest info on bottlings, web sites, books as well as the latest statistics and figures

More than 500 colour photos All in all – the most updated whisky book on the market!

This year covering 526 distilleries around the world!

Published by MagDig Media Ltd.
Publication date; 1 October 2018
Number of pages; 300
ISBN 978-0-9576553-5-5
Recommended retail price in UK; £13.95
Contact; ingvar.ronde@magdig.com
www.maltwhiskyyearbook.com

Best-Selling Single Malts from a Whisky Pioneer

“The magnificence that is Michel Couvreur has always been clear.” – David Othenin-Girard

For those familiar with Michel Couvreur, we urge you to read our recent blog post on what makes the bottlings featured here so special. And for those who may be new to these very special single malts—a bit of explanation is due. The late Michel Couvreur was a Belgian wine dealer who moved to Beaune in the 1950s. Then, in the 1960s, following his passion, he moved to Scotland to become more involved with the Scotch whisky industry, having developed a taste for sherry-aged single malt. He worked out a few contracts from suppliers and began purchasing whisky to mature in his own sherry butts that he secured from Jerez. In the 70s, Michel decided to move back to Beaune, in order to focus more on quality cooperage (Beaune was closer to Spain and easier to work out of) and that’s when he decided to mature his own casks, in his own cellar, built deeply into the side of a nearby hill. Michel would contract whisky from Scotland, barrels from Spain, and make his own expressions of single malt whisky from the heart of French wine country. These single malts, while not technically Scotch, soon became the stuff of legends. When our spirits team finally got a chance to taste coveted single malts, an exclusive deal was struck immediately. Fast forward several years, and the single malts Michel Couvreur have become one of our fastest selling spirits. Recently arrived into inventory is a long time favorite, the “Peaty Overaged,” as well as a special release, the 16-Year-Old “Mrs. Couvreur”— a favorite of Michel’s wife. Both are gorgeous expressions that sure to delight novice and the season Scotch drinker alike. While Michel may be gone, his brand lives on and as the pair here shows, it lives on gloriously.

Michel Couvreur “Peaty Overaged” K&L Exclusive Malt Whisky (750ml) ($79.99)

The chance to work with Michel Couvreur on a special K&L whisky project was something that we had been dreaming of for years. We had heard the stories. This crazy Belgian had moved to Burgundy in the ’60s, carved out a wine cellar inside a mountain, only to fill it with Scottish single malt whisky instead of Pinot Noir. He set up camp in Beaune, ordered new-make spirit to be delivered by tanker, and drove down to Jerez himself, selecting his own sherry butts to insure only the finest quality casks for his contracted spirit. Unfortunately, Michel Couvreur passed away in 2013 from pancreatic cancer, thus ending the career of one of the industry’s most courageous pioneers. Luckily for us, however, apprentice Jean-Arnaud has carried on after studying under Michel for more than a decade. When we visited the underground cave, we were all in total awe. The tunnels of dripping stone go on forever, and the amount of whisky stored in this secret lair is jawdropping. We put our trust completely in Jean-Arnaud and are happy we did. Our peated version of the incredible sherry expression is a seamless creation that drinks like the best version of Johnnie Black ever, mixed with the most supple and soft expressions of Macallan. It’s a lush, unfiltered, creamy, caramel-laden dream of a whisky composed only of malts 12 years and older. There’s a bit of peat on the finish, but the soft sherry is the star. (NOTE: do NOT cut the hard wax seal, use a wine opener to go through it)

David Othenin-Girard | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: October 14, 2014

The magnificence that is Michel Couvreur has always been clear, but it wasn’t until we stepped into the special cave, carved out of the rock, in Bouze-Les-Beaune that you can full appreciate the incredible endeavor in process at this fine producer. While this is by definition NOT Scotch, because it is aged outside of the country, the old school practices utilized at here are unusual back in Scotland. The fact that these guys literally drive to Jerez to pick out fresh sherry casks (from Equipos Navazos no less) is totally unique in modern times. In fact, no producer of malt whisky is getting access to fresher barrels than these guys. Not being able to use the famous moniker does not preclude this from being one of the most authentic and absolutely delicious malts on the market. Stupendous depth and complexity even at 86 proof, while the sherry is toned down from the standard version a subtle fino/amontillado quality exists in the back ground. This is pointed by a fabulous smokey sweetness, which hints at the source whisky. Maybe an island somewhere, maybe a drop of Islay, wildly high-quality Highland whisky with a French sensibility. A truly unique gem.

Jeffrey Jones | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: July 25, 2016

This Michel Couvreur Malt Whiskey is a perfect marriage of smoke and sherry-aged spirit. There is a nice amount of smoke aromas and flavors that are integrated well with the richness from the sherry barrels. On top of this, it is complex and will surprise and delight.

Ryan Woodhouse | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: October 22, 2014

One of the best bottles of “Scotch” I have had in a long while. I have been moving away from peated malts recently…but this bottle has the perfect marriage of smoke and sherry. The malt has a beautiful chewy texture and richness on the palate (perhaps owing to the fact that they don’t remove any of the first fill sherry barrel residue before bottling). It is brimming with red forest fruits, sweet rancio tones, wood spice and earthy nuances. A really complete drop and serious value for the money, in my book.

Shaun Green | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: October 07, 2014

I love it! Super creamy with a mild peat, lovely sherry character and an absolutely wonderful sexy texture on the palate. What an amazingly charming whiskey!

Michel Couvreur 16 Year Old “Mrs. Couvreur” Single PX Sherry Butt Cask Strength Single Malt Whisky (750ml) ($299.99)

The ultimate offering from Couvreur was selected by the late master’s wife. Her involvement with this special whisky house is generally fiduciary in nature, but in this case she’s put her personal approval on one of the most extreme and delicious single casks to come out of the magical Couvreur cellars. Starting with Golden Promise that is peated to 45 ppm, Mr. Couvreur filled a very old Pedro Ximenez sherry butt from the famous Bodega Malaga Virgen. These ultra-mature American Oak sherry butts have spent decades being impregnated with sweet PX sherry and while they’re not as dark and rancio as those from Bodega Toro Albala, they provide the perfect frame for the powerful peaty malt. After years in the deepest, dampest part of the Couvreur’s cavernous cellar, this exceptional whisky was bottled by hand without any filtration or dilution whatsoever. Couvreur has drawn from this cask a total of three times and the final batch of the Mrs.’ special cask is a full 16 years of age. Only 60 bottles (45 liters) of this unprecedented offering is for exclusive sale in the U.S. While the price is not inexpensive, a single cask of whisky from an Islay distillery of this quality at this age and full strength would easily command a similar price point had it been bottled in Scotland. Add the impressive vessel, Couvreur’s magical cellars, and the incredible rarity of this old glory and the price makes perfect sense. A one of a kind specimen from the wizard in Bouze.

David Othenin-Girard | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: September 13, 2018

This no hiding the fact that I’m completely in love with what Couvreur is doing. The quality and complexity of each offering is reshaping how we look at blended whisky, but occasionally they’ll put together a product so superlative and over the top that we just can’t resist even if the prices are high. Yes on paper this whisky seems crazy. 16 -year-old malt whisky from a single cask for $300? We’ve had high-end offerings from Couvreur before and they’re often met with skepticism, but as soon as you taste them all disbelief is suspended. The initiated usually know right away that this is something they should strive to acquire, but for the uninitiated it can seem almost farcical. Why would we pay a French man extra for Scotch that I can get from the Scottish for less? But the truth is, you CAN’T get this from Scotland. There are so many reasons why these whiskies are so unique and this particular bottling doubly so. Mrs. Couvreur’s choice represents the absolute best evidence that little house in Bouze-les-Beaune’s hypothesis is correct: the old ways were BETTER! Yes, entry into their highest level isn’t cheap and on paper you might find better values from the Scots, but in the glass no whisky on the market today will deliver what this special whisky offers at this price. Not to mention that the US release is sold exclusively at K&L and is two years older than the European version that sells for the same price. Beyond its incredible rarity, the idea that exemplifies this whisky most accurately is the word balance. Yes it’s from one of Scotland’s peatiest distillers—my money is on Laphroaig or Ardbeg although Couvreur won’t come close to confirming those suspicions—but the peat is not out of control. Instead it melds and mingles so perfectly with the sweet, nutty, sherry character and provides backbone against which the rich maltiness unfolds. The nose is one of the most complex things I’ve ever come across, reminding me of some of the true ancient legends I’ve had the incredible privilege of tasting. On the nose fresh plum preserves, ozone, dried yuzu peel, ripe pear, crushed oyster shell, roasting nuts from afar. Entry is surprisingly peat driven but not at all rugged. It proceeds to open up to the sweet stewed fruits of the sherry tamped down by an invigorating briny sea spray. More yellow plums build to a long, smoky, ultra-pleasurable finish. It feels like a privilege to be selling this whisky and I can already see the future of me nursing my last bottle in terrible fear of never tasting this wonderful whisky again. That terrible feeling is well worth with it considering the pure joy the rest of the bottle made me feel.

Will Blakely | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: September 06, 2018

The phrase “one of a kind” gets bandied about excessively these days, but it truly applies to this bottling from Michel Couvreur. The elusive Pedro Ximenez cask finish alone should have single malt aficionados clamoring for a dram of this nectar, and the juice does not disappoint. Elegantly complex, it starts on the nose with salty smoke that gives way to honeyed sweetness of candied dates kissed by sea breeze. The malt itself leans toward the savory, with hazelnut and smoky bacon adorned by tropical nuance and a lingering fire. All the elements are perfectly integrated, displaying a deft balance and creating a voluptuous texture that is not overbearing. The finish is full, maintaining the exquisite character of the sherry and the richness of the malt but offering a touch of toffee and spice as a final farewell. I implore, if you have the opportunity, to taste this bottle immediately —you will not regret it.

Keith Mabry | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: September 05, 2018

It’s not often that we get to try something this extraordinary and those who even deign to read this far down the page have probably already made their commitment to this whisky. Let me be the first to tell you, you are right! The Couvreur whiskies are a reflection of a time long gone when whiskies were aged in pure unadulterated sherry cask and that may be hard to wrap our modern heads around these days. You already know that so much sherry cask is rushed to market with inferior Sherry aging in it and though it imparts some character it is seldom that we see something like this. An authentic Pedro Ximenez barrel that had been part of a long aging solera intensifying and sweetening its charge. Again, you already know the story about this crazy French guy, Mr. Couvreur, driving to Jerez to buy his casks, settling for nothing less than the real thing and loading them on his little truck and driving them back to his cellar. So much detail in the procurement alone was enough to peak your interest. The added fact that it is aged in a cave in the middle of France instead of the salt caked island of Islay makes the malt even more transparent and adds to its mystique. The whisky itself was expressive barley first on the nose but as you dive further in, the smoke builds in a subtle way As a first fill PX Sherry cask, it rounds out the flavors allowing the malt to shine through with a nose of toasted spelt, candied dates and sweet tea. The cask frames the smoke, not the other way around. It is complex and detailed on the palate and has a long savory finish. The Couvreur is top tier and worthy of any collector’s shelf. One of the best peated styles I’ve tasted this year. Thanks for reading, now enjoy that bottle.

Kaj Stromer | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: September 05, 2018

It only takes one whiff of this spirit to know that you have something very special in your glass. While I have the fortunate opportunity to sample world-class spirits on a weekly basis, few have caught my attention like this one did. It’s quite an unusual spirit as it’s a white whiskey from Scotland aged in Sherry casks in the cellars of Burgundy. The effect of the “magical” sherry butts imparts an almost Cognac-like sweetness to the palate. This spirit possesses the hallmarks of a Scotch whiskey but its informed by a French sensibility. It almost seems like a more complete, seamless beverage. I must say that this is the most intriguing and compelling whisky I’ve tasted this year. I enthusiastically give it a strong BUY recommendation.