The month of July is winding down and we are approaching the Dog Days of Summer. The whisky news continues to flow and excitement is building as new whiskies including some long awaited new Kensington Wine Market Exclusive casks start hitting the shelves.

Speaking of the new KWM exclusive casks, we have nearly sold out of our Kensington Wine Market Glenrothes 1997 Cask, $200, which only first arrived in store two and a half weeks ago. Of the 84 total bottles, nearly 60 have sold… There is also our new Cadenhead exclusive cask, which we alluded to in the Bulletin last week.

We launched the Cadenhead Glen Moray 1992 25 Year KWM at a series of tastings last week hosted by Cameron McGeachy from Cadenhead. At $205 it is a very reasonably priced 25 year old single cask, cask strength whisky. It is our latest 25th Anniversary bottling to hit the shop, but not the last…

This coming week we are launching our most limited 25th Anniversary whisky, the Whisky-Fassle ‘extra old’ Blended Malt KWM, $220. Only 42 bottles have been sold to KWM of this very curious, a purportedly very old, Blended Malt. We suspect the whisky to be Edrington Stock, with a cigar ash backbone and lots of sherry. We have a bottle open for sampling in the shop.

Next week we will be introducing the whiskies of Samaroli to the Kensington Wine Market, at a tasting to be co-hosted by Evan Eckersley and Jonathan Bray. We will be sampling a range of new Samaroli whiskies and a couple of others aged up to 26 years of age at Samaroli Malt Whisky & Friends. Just $40.

We have access to some increasingly rare closed distillery whiskies, including Brora, Caperdonich, Rosebank and Port Ellen. The Caperdonich, from Maltbarn, is the first we have seen from this distillery in a couple of years. The other three are from Gordon Macphail’s Rare Old range. They are an unexpected but welcome surprise… and they won’t last long. Just 6 bottles each of the Brora, Port Ellen and Rosebank are coming, and between 3 and 5 bottles of each are already sold!

There is a new range of organic single malt whiskies from Sweden in Alberta. The Spirit of Hven whiskies are lightly peated, highly respected and curiously packaged. The whisky is made on the island of Hven, between Sweden and Denmark. We have samples of a few of them open at the shop including their gin!

The Paul John Whiskies are back in stock at the shop: Brilliance, Edited and Bold. More details on them below, as well as two cask strength bottlings from the distillery which are set to arrive in the next couple of weeks. Only a handful of bottles of Paul John Peated Select Cask, $95, and Classic Select Cask, $90, are coming to Alberta. We will also shortly be announcing a Paul John Master Class with the distillery’s Brand Ambassador Madhu Paul.

The second edition of Shelter Point Single Malt is now in store, and we are shortly expecting some new releases from Duncan Taylor. We have also received a small shipment of EH Taylor and a new release of Stagg Jr.

Last but not least: if you are a fan of either Old Pulteney 17 Year, or Old Pulteney 21 Year, you may want to grab a bottle or two over the next couple of months. The owners of the distiller – Inver House – are retooling its lineup and we have heard these two expressions are soon to be dropped. When the stock currently in Alberta is gone, these malts will be gone forever!

I hope you enjoy this edition of the Malt Messenger.

Sláinte!

In This Edition

1. Samaroli & Friends Tasting Next Week
2. New Cadenhead Glen Moray 1992 KWM Cask 25 Year
3. New Whisky-Fassle ‘extra old’ Blended Malt Whisky
4. Very Rare Closed Distillery Bottlings
5. Introducing Spirit of Hven Whiskies
6. Introducing Paul John Cask Strength
7. Introducing Shelter Point 2nd Release Single Malt
8. New Duncan Taylor Whiskies
9. EH Taylor & Stagg Jr. Bourbons
10. Old Pulteney 17 & 21 Year Olds Discontinued

Andrew Ferguson

Kensington Wine Market

PS – Don’t forget you can follow me on Twitter:

@scotch_guy, Instagram: @thescotch_guy/

or @kwmwhisky and Facebook: facebook.com/scotch.guy.1

Samaroli Malt Whisky & Friends Tasting Next Week 

With Jonathan Bray & Our Own Evan Eckersley – Just $40 

Samaroli is a well respected name in the world of independent bottlers. Established in 1968 in its home market of Italy, and now available in over 20 countries around the world. We will sample a range of whiskies from Samaroli, and a couple of other bottlings aged up to 26 years of age. Take a break from the sun next week, with some fine Scotch whisky, bottled by an Italian firm.

Samaroli Malt Whisky & Friends – Thursday July 27 – 7 whiskies will be sampled in this tag team tasting of malt whiskies up to 26 years of age… Evan and Jonathan will be your spirit guides on this quest! – $40

Call 403-283-8000 or register online!

 

New Cadenhead Glen Moray 1992 KWM 25 Year 

Our first and only 25 year old anniversary bottling, distilled in 1992 the year KWM was founded!  

One of the most exciting 25th Anniversary releases we’ve received… the whisky is both 25 years old, and distilled in 1992, the year we opened. Matured in refill American oak, bottled at a cask strength 51.1%, just 246 bottles! This is the first cask we’ve bottled with Cadenhead and it won’t be the last, we have a tasty young Dailuaine on the way. It is hard to emphasize how good a deal this whisky is, for a 25 year old single cask, cask strength bottling. We tried to find a 1992 25 year old with several other firms, all of them 50-150% more expensive… The whisky is light, delicate and tropical but very layered. A fine summer sipper!

ore details to come, only time to hammer out a quick tasting note!

Cadenhead Glen Moray 1992 KWM 25 Year – 55.1% – American Oak – Approx 220 Bottles – My Tasting Note: “Nose: doughy, decadent and floral; clotted cream, crystallized honey and creme brule; very delicate and tropical: melon, mango and juicy orange; a silky creamy base. Palate: soft, silky, floral, elegant and still very delicate; thin tendrils of honey, clotted cream and vanilla lead into the soft subtle tropical fruits and orange; both cantaloupe and honeydew melons, firm but balanced toasted oak and Demerara sugars; light but coating with lots of layers. Finish: long and very delicate it is both drying and coating with more soft oak tones, tropical fruits and decadent vanilla-cream. Comment: we patiently waited for this whisky to reach 25 years of age, and we’ve glad we did; it is a fine summer whisky, great value for a 25 year old single cask, and it won’t disappoint! – $205

 

NEW Whisky-Fassle ‘extra old’ Blended Malt 

Only 42 Bottles Filled Exclusively for KWM’s 25th Anniversary!

This curious blended malt was offered to us by Whisky Fassel, a boutique German independent bottler and blender of Scotch Whisky. They were established in 2006, and that is about all I can tell you about them. Only 42 bottles of this curious whisky were offered to and have been bottled for KWM for our 25th Anniversary. The strength is 45.4%, possibly cask strength as the producer says: “matured very long in a sherry butt bottled 2016.” It doesn’t have our logo on it, as that looked too busy, so you’ll have to take our word for it… but it does say “bottled for Canada”! Oh and there is some sort of mallard duck on the label.

I included the original proposed KWM version of the logo on the right as proof of intent.

Whisky-Fassle Blended Malt KWM 25th Anniversary – 45.4% – Sherry Butt – 42 Bottles – Andrew’s Tasting Note: “Nose: big, thick and chewy; chocolate fudge, gentle ashy smoke and a cedar spice box full of decadent spices; warmed brown sugar and candied ginger; orange peels and a touch of mincemeat. Palate: round and fruity; dark, rich and layered; building gentle, ashy peat-smoke and dark bakers chocolate; more mincemeat in a buttery pie crust, bright candied orange peel and big candied fruits; soft sweet cigar tobacco and some late melons. Finish: like a fine Cuban cigar… more dark chocolate, mincemeat, fading gentle ashy peat and again with the melons. Comment: this is a lovely Blended malt, and I suspect another Edrington Group special… it has Macallan, Highland Park and even a touch of Glenrothes on it… regardless it is lovely!” – $220

Very Rare Closed Distillery Bottlings 

Brora, Port Ellen and Rosebank from Gordon Macphail & a Maltbarn Caperdonich

These ones arrived out of the blue… I was not expecting them, but who am I to look a gift horse in the mouth! We are getting no more than 6 bottles each of Gordon Macphail Rare Old Brora 1982, Port Ellen 1980 and Rosebank 1990. The pricing on the Brora is frankly a lot lower than expected as is the Port Ellen. Most independent bottlers have been aggressively jacking up their Port Ellen pricing, Douglas Laing and Hunter Laing in particular. This is to say nothing of Diageo who’s Port Ellens now sell for as much as decent used car. The Rosebank jumped substantially in price, but Rosebank has all but dried up these days. The only Rosebank we’ve even seen in recent years has been from Gordon Macphail, and the quantities are limited. Canada’s allocation is no more than a couple dozen bottles a year! Here are the details, and prices. Let me know ASAP if there is anything of interest. I expect these will go quickly!

Brora

Brora Courtesy Gordon MacPhail:

“In the annals of Scotch whisky history, many noted distilleries have stood out above and beyond the pack for their distinct flavour, or personality. Brora, first founded as the Clynelish distillery back in 1819, then taking the name Brora in the late 1960s, is one such distillery. However, the reason for its undisputed reverence is largely down to its untimely closure back in the early 1980s and the subsequent decades have seen this lost highlander truly become a sorely-missed classic.  The site of Brora lies next to its ultimate predecessor, a newly opened ‘Clynelish’ in the late 1960s, but the two whiskies are very different from a flavour perspective. Brora has matured into a phenomenal malt whisky, with a unique maltiness and rich, highly distinctive oak-driven backbone. Whilst this classic may never live and breathe again, the remaining stocks are unquestionably some of the finest whiskies one will ever encounter.”

Rare Old Brora 1982 – 46% – Refill Sherry puncheon – Producer Tasting Note: “Nose without Water Fragrant green apple aromas enhanced with lemon and lime and subtle menthol notes. A sweetness develops with hints of milk chocolate. Palate without Water White pepper, ripe banana, blueberry, and cardamom spice flavours are complemented by an underlying peat smoke edge. Nose with Water Subtle vanilla with fresh green apple, pear, and orange notes complemented by hints of Parma Violets. Palate with Water Peppery with hints of banana, dark chocolate, and orange zest. An undertone of dried tobacco is present. Body Light to medium. Finish Medium in length, smooth and creamy with traces of smoke.” – $1200 – Only 1/6 Left!

Port Ellen

Port Ellen Courtesy Gordon Macphail: “Time is, in many ways, a great leveller and allows one to reflect on the past with a sense of perspective. When considering Port Ellen, Islay’s undisputed lost classic, had those in authority been able to search into the future before finally taking the decision to close the distillery back in 1983 due to economic issues, then maybe the distillery would still be producing its characterful single malt for a new generation of whisky drinkers. Despite its closure, a small number of casks are still maturing away and today, Port Ellen has a extra special reverence reserved for it. It exudes a refined elegance unlike any other Islay malt: aromas of chamois leather, lemon zest and cracked black pepper mix with a heady phenolic smoke, to produce a whisky, which many connoisseurs consider to be one of the finest ever bottled. Truly a lost classic, never to be repeated.”

Rare Old Port Ellen – 46% – Refill American Oak – Producer Tasting Note: “Nose without Water Vanilla ice cream, ripe pear, and cinnamon aromas mingle with dried tobacco and charred oak. Palate without Water Ground white pepper leads to sweet red berries, dried mango, and kiwi flavours. A rich smoky edge is present giving way to a subtle aniseed edge. Nose with Water Floral elements with hints of lavender and violet. Green apple, tangerine, and red grape are complemented by green tea aromas. Palate with Water Sweet initially with candied fruits giving way to a touch of liquorice and salt. Peat smoke lingers. Body Medium. Finish Medium in length, drying with plenty of peat smoke influences.” – $1900 – 3/6 left!

Rosebank Type caption tewww.discoverrosebank.comxt here.Rosebank Courtesy Gordon Macphail: “Situated on the banks of the Forth and Clyde canal close to the River Carron, the distillery has the advantage of being near a main road and a coalfield thus enabling it to have cheaply transported fuel. The main reason this site was chosen for a distillery as early as 1817 was because of the ‘inexhaustible supply of water’ from the Glenbirnie rivulet, a tributary of the River Carron.Like other Lowland distilleries, Rosebank operated a triple distillation process. It was rebuilt in a modern form in the 1800s and comprises two ranges of buildings divided by the canal. The distillery closed in 1993.”

Rare Old Rosebank 1990 – 46% – Refill Sherry and American hogsheads – Producer Tasting Note: “Nose without Water Hints of lavender, rose petals, and beeswax polish combine with lingering hints of lemon, green apple, and ripe pear. Palate without Water Cracked black pepper with hints of red apple, orange peel, and almonds are complemented by a creamy milk chocolate edge. Nose with Water Lime, plum, and mandarin aromas initially. Delicate hints of pine needles and eucalyptus develop. Palate with Water Fruity flavours emerge – banana, gooseberry, and kiwi. These are complemented by an underlying honeycomb sweetness. Body Light to medium. Finish Medium with a fruity and spicy edge.” – $940 – 3/6 left!

Caperdonich Distillery

Not a Gordon Macphail bottling, but from a closed distillery none the less, we also have a Maltbarn 1994 Caperdonich single cask. Capperdonich used to be one of the more common independent bottlings, though the stock has all but dried up in the last few years. The distillery was opened in 1897 at the start of the first Scotch Whisky Boom. It was an adjunct to Glen Grant distillery located just across the road in Rothes. The distillery only operated for three years until 1902 when it was forced to close by the Pattison Whisky Crash. During its few years of operation, it was known as Glen Grant Number 2. When it reopened in 1965 at the start of the next major whisky boom, it was renamed Caperdonich, as by that time two distilleries could not bear the same name. The distillery was closed again in 2002, dismantled, and the buildings are now occupied by Forsyths who produce stills and other copper-work for the industry. This Maltbarn bottling is the first Caperdonich we have seen in a number of years.

Maltbarn Caperdonich 1994 – 49.8% – 22 Year – Bourbon Barrel No. 69 – Tasting Note & More Details Coming Soon – $350

Introducing: The Spirit of Hven Whiskies 

New Organic Single Malts from Sweden!

New Swedish single malt whiskies bottled in curious wax sealed 500ml flask shaped bottles. The whiskies are all made from organic malt and bottled without colouring or chill-filtering.From the Importer: “Recently named the 2017 European Distillery of the Year at the Wizards of Whisky awards,  the Spirit of Hven (pronounced “V – N”) is located on the island of Hven between Denmark and Sweden. The distillery produces a range of all-organic craft spirits that are now, for the first time, available in Alberta. The “Seven Stars” series are special releases, and the last of the of the second (Merak), third (Phecda), and fifth (Alioth) editions are now available in limited quantities.”

• Spirit of Hven Tycho’s Star – 41.8% – Producer Description: “The core of the single malt range from Hven is this medium-peated whisky. It is bright and nutty with hints of grain and chocolate. Tycho’s Star is bottled at site on Hven at 41,8 vol%, without carbon- or chill filtering, no colouring or additives. It is Organic certified, completely natural, as it should be. Every bottle is individually numbered and controlled before being dipped in wax by hand.” – $165
• Spirit of Hven Seven Stars Merak – 45.0% – Producer Description: “This Whisky is the second release in the “Seven Stars” series from Spirit of Hven. It is a medium smoky Single Malt Whisky, created from barley to bottle at the small family owned distillery situated on the island of Hven. As the predecessor Dubhe , this whisky called Merak is soft and round with a youthful freshness. It has distinct but smooth smokiness, which in combination with liquorice and leather notes gives a rich mouth feel. Maturation involves American, French, and Spanish oak, the American contri butes toffee and vanilla, the French provides liquorice and peppery notes, Spanish oak keep the others in balance giving herbs and dried fruit .” – $165
• Spirit of Hven Seven Stars Phceda – 45.0% – Producer Description: “As its predecessors Dubhe and Merak, this whisky Phecda is fine-tuned and gentle with a youthful freshness even if it shows a bit more maturity than the earlier two. During maturation the phenols, primarily the ones characterized with scent of leather and liquorice notes, have accentuated, giving a more full bodied mouthfeel. Maturation was conducted on Quercus Muehlenbergii from Missouri and Quercus Petraea from Allier. The American oak gives toffee and vanilla, and the French oak, liqourice and pepperiness.” – $165
• Spirit of Hven Seven Stars Alioth – 45.0% – Producer Description: “This whisky is the fifth in the Spirit of Hven “Seven Stars” series. It is a moderately peated single malt whisky, made from grain to bottle in the small family owned distillery situated on the island of Hven in the strait between Denmark and Sweden. It has got its name from the star Alioth  in the asterism Ursa Major (the Plough). The name derives from the Arabic, alyat, meaning “the tail of a sheep” referring to the position in the asterism. Alioth is the brightest star in the constellation and no.31 amongst stars visible from earth.” – $165

Introducing Paul John Cask Strength 

One Classic, One Peated, Both Very Limited!

Paul John Distillery in Goa, India, has been making a name for itself over the last few years. So far there has only been a trickle of the whisky into Alberta, including the Bold, Edited and Brilliance expressions. I had a chance to sample the range at the Victoria Whisky Festival, and they did not disappoint. Two cask strength bottlings are about to land in Alberta, in very small quantities. They won’t last long.

• Paul John Classic Select Cask – 55.2% – Matured in American Oak – Distiller’s Tasting Note: “Nose: Fruity, malty aromas are intertwined with honey. A hint of bourbon teases your senses. Palate: With the very first sip, flavours of malted barley greet you. A heady mix of bourbon and manuka honey-liquorice makes for an attractive spine. And while you relish this experience, the unexpected flavour of toasted honeycomb takes you by surprise. Finish: This Single Malt has an absolutely elegant finish, with juicy Demerara tones ensuring a soft, friendly finish.” – $90
• Paul John Peated Select Cask – 55.5% – Matured in Ex-Bourbon – Distiller’s Tasting Note: “Nose: The smoky, sweet and earthy fragrances have mellow resonances of spice. Palate: As the crisp Muscovado and Demerara sugars create layered nuances, the smokiness of the Single Malt sets in, creating a perfect balance. A hint of spice radiates from the hickory and Dominican-style cocoa. Finish: The delicate finish of this Single Malt has notes of Dominican cocoa laced with the tart edge of marmalade.” – $95

We also have the following 3 other Paul John Single Malts in stock:

• Paul John Edited – 46% – Matured in Ex-Bourbon – Lightly Peated – Distiller’s Tasting Note: “Nose: Honey and cocoa are laced with a hint of smokiness and a shot of espresso. A deeper whiff reveals fruity fragrances. Palate: The grassy flavours of barley show up first, but gently make way for subtle peat notes. They slowly dissolve and pave the way for a rush of mint and mocha. Finish: The finish is long and drawn out. You can sense a hint of spice and chocolate mint as it ends on gentle peat notes. – $69
• Paul John Brilliance – 46% – Matured in Ex-Bourbon – Distiller’s Tasting Note: “Nose: The Demerara sugars give off a whiff of sweet fragrances, with a hint of cinnamon, dash of honey and faint spices. Palate: Sweet and spice and all things nice, make this Single Malt. The honey-like smoothness is offset by the crunchy-bar-like crispness. Somewhere, there is also a tinge of cocoa. Finish: Brilliance has a smooth and beautifully relaxed finish, with a hint of mild spices and deep intense vanilla.” – $63
• Paul John Bold – 46% Matured in Ex-Bourbon – Peated – Distiller’s Tasting Note: “Nose: After the slightest whiff of smoke, a dizzying array of Manuka honey, prickly spice and bourboneque red liquorice takes over. Palate: This melt-in-the-mouth malt has the most profound flavours crashing in like waves. At first, the delivery feels sublimely silky and studded with oak-like honey. And just when you think you’ve savoured it all, you are surprised by a hefty second wave of spice. This is followed by a cloudy, smoky feel that coats the roof of the mouth and leaves a tidal wave of dry molasses, peaty soot and a degree of copper in its wake. Finish: Bold has a light finish with a tinge of copper slowly making its presence known. You can also sense a gorgeous smoked mocha shaped by delicate and intricate spices.” – $75

Introducing: Shelter Point Single Malt 2nd Release 

The Second Single Malt from Vancouver Island’s Farm to Bottle Distillery

The second release of Shelter Point Single Malt has been bottled at 46% after maturing in Jack Daniels barrels. The whisky is made from two row barley, grown on the distillery’s farm, doubled distilled in copper pot stills, matured and bottled on site. Rumour has it the whisky was matured exclusively in ex-Jack Daniels casks.Shelter Point 2nd Release Single Malt – 46% – Andrew’s Tasting Note: “Nose: fresh, toasty and honeyed; a touch of sour orange opens into oatmeal-raisin cookies right out of the over and corn syrup; a touch vegetal and quite malty with aloe-like oils. Palate: still fresh, malty and honeyed; the corn syrup is still there with some simple syrup and melons; the orange note is drying with some Demerara sugar and Russian coffee dregs; still vegetal and floral with loads of toasty oak; the oatmeal-raisin cookies are still there, right out of the oven… not enough raisins though! Finish: clean, crisp and toasty; more malty tones, sugars and honey with a floral finale. Comment: more mature by a hair than the first release; further proof that they are on the right track!” – $83

NEW Duncan Taylor Whiskies 

4 Interesting Single Malts

Duncan Taylor’s whisky prices have been rising like a helium balloon the last 4-5 years. We’ve found a few we believe we can work with though. Not a lot of details at this time (I’ve asked for them). But the pricing on the two dimensions bottlings is very good. The Miltonduff is of great interest to me. In my humble opinion it is one of the most underappreciated malts of Scotland. I haven’t come across many that I don’t love!

• Duncan Taylor Dimensions Glen Grant 23 Year – 52.8% – Trying to track down more info! – $205
• Duncan Taylor Dimensions Glen Spey 23 Year – 53.6% – 1991 – Outturn 260 bottles – $200
• Duncan Taylor Glen Moray 26 Year Single Cask – 45.7% – 1988 – Outturn 190 bottles – Matured in Sherry Oak – $450
• Duncan Taylor Miltonduff 31 Year Single Cask – 51.2% – Trying to track down more info! – $530

JUST BACK Two EH Taylors and a new Stagg Jr.  

Three very sought after, and limited Bourbons at least in Canada!

We are getting a small quantity of EH Taylor Single Barrel and Small Batch Bourbons. They are limited in quantity, and they won’t last long… But nothing new there!

• EH Taylor Single Barrel – 50% – Distiller’s Tasting Note: “The aroma carries lightly toasted oak, with dried figs and butterscotch. One sip brings flavors of sweetness balanced with tobacco and dark spices. The finish is just long enough to prepare the palette for another sip. The bottle itself is a likeness to Colonel Taylor’s original design used over a century ago.” – $100
• EH Taylor Small Batch – 50% – Distiller’ s Tasting Note: “Tastes of caramel corn sweetness, mingled with butterscotch and licorice. The aftertaste is a soft mouth-feel that turns into subtle spices of pepper and tobacco.” – $100
• Stagg Jr. 66.25% – 66.25% – The younger brother of George T. Stagg from Buffalo Trace distillery / Sazerac Company. It is around 8 to 9 years old and is high alcohol like its older sibling. Stagg Jr. Bourbon is a small batch barrel proof Bourbon produced by Buffalo Trace Distillery. – Producer Tasting Note: “Rich, sweet, chocolate and brown sugar flavors mingle in perfect balance with the bold rye spiciness. The boundless finish lingers with hints of cherries, cloves and smokiness.” – $85

Old Pulteney 17 & 21 Year Olds  Set to be discontinued, get em while you can!

Two of our customers’ favourite whiskies are set to be discontinued. The Old Pulteney 17 and 21 year olds will be gone forever in short order; there a limited stocks left in Alberta. Rumour has it the 17 Year is set to become an 18 year old and the 21 Year a 22 year old, likely with a price bump. Demand for these whiskies globally has been very high over the last few years, and the owners have decided to switch things up a little. If either of these are your go to malts, you may want to stock up!

• Old Pulteney 17 Year – 46% – American & European Oak – Distiller’s Tasting Note: “Nose: Sweet with traces of apples and pears: slightly woody with a hint of butterscotch. Taste: Sweet with soft fruits: kiwi, guava, peach.” – $135
• Old Pulteney 21 Year – 46% – American & European Oak (with a higher proportion of sherry than the 17) – Distiller’s Tasting Note: “Nose: Full bodied with traces of fruits (apples and pears); slightly fragrant with spicy overtones. Palate: Creamy, toffee, vanilla, baked red apple with a hint of smokiness and a dry finish.” – $190

Thank You for Reading the Malt Messenger! 

Contact & Disclaimers If you have any whisky questions or comments concerning The Malt Messenger please contact me by e-mail, phone, or drop by the store.All of the products mentioned in THE MALT MESSENGER can be purchased in store, over the phone or from our website at www.kensingtonwinemarket.com. All prices quoted in the Malt Messenger are subject to change and don’t include GST. In the case of discrepancies in pricing, the price in our in store point of sale will be taken as correct.Thanks for reading the Malt Messenger.

Slainte!

Andrew Ferguson

Owner & Scotchguy

Kensington Wine Market

403-283-8000Calgary, Alberta, Canada

We’ve just released two sensational sherry casks to our July Outturn selection. Taste and explore the bold character of these new whiskies, from the spicy and sweet 11.34 Magical Mystery to the deep, rich and dried flavours of 73.85 Opening Granma’s cake tine. Both whiskies would be great for outdoor adventures, bringing a warm golden glow.

SPICY & SWEET

CASK No. 11.34

Magical Mystery

16 Years

£61.00

TASTING NOTES

The nose neat got us all on the edge of our seats. We opened a deluxe chocolate box with an overwhelming assortment and nothing to explain each individual item. So we had to dip in; spiced ginger ganache, dark chocolate walnut pralines, orange & macadamia truffles and the list could go on but we stopped ourselves and added a drop of water. Now the appearance of a spiced prune, Armagnac and almond tart with a glass of Oloroso Abocado (sweetened dry Sherry) made this mystery experience complete.  At 15 years old, we transferred this whisky from an Oloroso butt to a 1st fill Spanish oak PX hogshead for the remainder of its maturation.

DEEP, RICH & DRIED FRUITS

CASK No. 73.85

Opening grandma’s cake tin

15 Years

£69.00

TASTING NOTES

It was immediately engaging as the saffron gold hue introduced a nose of butterscotch, honeycomb and dried apple rings. A lifted wine note came through that ranged between the oily quality of riesling dessert wine and the rich viscosity of sweet sherry and marsala. As if we opened a cake tin a delicious spiciness was released as cinnamon, nutmeg and ginger combined with dried apricots, figs and fresh strawberries. The cake was topped with sweet icing and chocolate sprinkles for good measure. The palate progressed the theme with chocolate mousse and sugared almonds but with the addition of vanilla ice cream, crème brulee and cream soda. The finish was warm and drier like red vermouth with orange skin and raisons.

VIEW ALL WHISKIES

The Scotch Malt Whisky Society, The Vaults, 87 Giles Street, Leith EH6 6BZ

Contact: sales@smws.com or call 0131 555 2929 (Mon-Fri 9am-4.45pm). Visit the Society at here for membership information

This is your chance to join and to take advantage of their great offers!

Spot the SMWS bottles in this amusing You Tube video

New to Market

Sometimes we receive bottles to store that are too good to miss. As Newsletter subscribers, we figured you would like to hear about them first.

Take a look through our selection of Whiskies from the Distell Brand.

LEDAIG 10 YEAR OLD, 46.3%

BUNNAHABHAIN STIUREADAIR 46.3%

DEANSTON 12 YEAR OLD SINGLE MALT, 46.3%

DEANSTON 18 YEAR OLD SINGLE MALT, 46.3%

Buy Whisky at the Milroys Web Store

For the past seven years we’ve been traveling to Scotland to find interesting, unique and exciting single barrels of whisky to arouse the taste buds of America’s single malt connoisseurs. During that time we’ve traveled the country extensively—north and south, east and west, and the islands off the coast—in search of the sublime. But I have to be honest here: while we’ve always trusted our palates and followed our hearts, it wasn’t our talent or our experience that recently pushed our spirits department forward and catapulted our company into a position as the nation’s top single malt retailer. It was a political vote on June 23, 2016 that opted to remove the UK from the European Union and sent the British pound into a free fall as a result. All of a sudden, the cost of doing business in Scotland dropped by nearly 25% and the whisky became that much more affordable. We were thrilled to be able to offer our customers the same great whiskies at a discount—but apparently we were the only ones! While the price of K&L’s exclusive single malts reflected the new Brexit pricing, the general Scotch import market absorbed that currency savings and maintained its price points, keeping the margin for itself rather than passing it along to the consumer.

Now K&L’s prices for single-barrel, cask-strength, mature Scotch whiskies look downright unreal. Halfway into 2017, the story remains the same: we’re tearing up the American whisky scene with top-quality selections, exciting new discoveries, and now pricing that can’t be beat from coast to coast. The most successful of our exclusive labels has been Old Particular, a partnership with Douglas Laing in Glasgow that’s resulted in a consumer frenzy unlike any we’ve experienced since we began buying our Scotch directly in 2010. It’s not uncommon for a single barrel of Old Particular whisky to sell out within twenty-four hours, leaving some K&L customers dazed and confused by the insane demand. The combination of age, rarity, and price we’ve been able to provide has sent whisky drinkers from all over the country flocking to our website (almost more than we can handle at times!). We’re pleased to report that a new crop of casks has come in for 2017 and the same great Brexit pricing we began offering in 2016 will continue through the current year as well. Take a look at three of our new editions and see what you think. Just don’t sleep on this newsletter, as history has a way of repeating itself each time we release a new batch of Old Particular barrels.

David Driscoll – K&L Assistant Head Buyer

Wathen’s Private Barrel “K&L Exclusive” Single Barrel Straight Kentucky Bourbon (750ml) ($39.99)

This exceptional single cask from the Medley Family is on another level. The Medleys are Kentucky legends and some of the few NDPs (non-distiller producers) who actually get to dictate how their distilling partners produce the whiskey that they contract. That means truly taking over a distillery and produces bourbon to their exact specification. The result is a portfolio of whiskies with unique character at exceptional prices. This single cask was selected with Sam Medley and is easily one of the “smoothest” whiskies in the store. I don’t love to use that term because it’s essentially meaningless in real terms, but what I mean here is that there isn’t a sharp edge anywhere in this bottle. Round, supple, rich and comforting without being cloying or overtly sweet, this is a real drinker’s whiskey. Notable are the aromatics of spiced honey, deep exotic mahogany, baked vanilla beans and subtle candied citrus. The palate is Crème brûlée over pepper and spice. The finish is easy and long without a hint of heat. This one was Sam’s favorite of the day and it was without a doubt ours as well. A superlative cask by any measure. (David Othenin-Girard, K&L Spirits buyer)

David Othenin-Girard | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: July 04, 2017

This wonderful cask of Wathen’s is definitely one of those sleeper whiskies. When we get a barrel of Weller, Eagle Rare or even Buffalo Trace people jump out of their seats to get one of the 200+ bottles. But Wathen’s hasn’t got the name recognition for the non-nerds and so it usually goes out on a real slow simmer. People slowly decided to try a bottle and then three or four weeks later they show up praying that we still have it. Objectively though, this cask bests every single Buffalo Trace single barrel we’ve received in the last 2-3 years. That’s kind of the beauty of the Wathen’s/Medley brand is that they can offer something that’s superlatively good and nobody seems to notice. While they won’t share the age statements here I’m happy to guess that this is at least 10+ years old. A big nose of vanilla bean, cacao nibs, maple syrup and barrel spice. Exotic woods and freshly varnished antique furniture meld perfectly with the candied fruit and savory spice. It feels totally mature. It’s RICH! Palate coating and forwardly sweet on the front. Then meanders toward and long spicy dry finish. Awesome texture and length here. This will likely be most peoples new favorite for the very short time that we get to enjoy it.

2001 Auchroisk 15 Year Old “Old Particular” K&L Exclusive Single Barrel Cask Strength Single Malt Whisky (750ml) ($59.99)

Most people still picture sherry matured malts when they think of the Speyside district (formerly known as Glenlivet until that got too confusing), but the region’s bread and butter is still the soft, fruity, charming, malt-driven style you’ll find inside this bottle of Auchroisk 15 year old. Part of the Johnnie Walker empire, we occasionally see Auchroisk here in the states as a Diageo limited edition release, but rarely as a consistently-bottled single malt expression. This particular specimen is like a fresh blast of summer with a huge dose of peaches and apricots on the nose that continue to emanate from the bottle once it’s been opened. The palate is seductively sweet, but also light on its feet, with flavors of stonefruit, maple syrup, and bit of compote on the finish, before it turns malty once again and beckons another taste. Bottled at 54.5%, you’d never know this whisky was running at full proof. It’s as relaxing and airy as a summer breeze, making this the perfect dram for your backyard barbeques and July campfire evenings.

David Driscoll | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: June 30, 2017

Wow is this a fresh and fruity whisky! I had to rinse my glass out after tasting this one, thinking that maybe some of the residue from the peach brandy I’d been drinking before had unfairly influenced this crackin’ edition of Auchroisk, but it was not the case! Smell the bottle after you open it; it’s oozing with aromas of summer stonefruit and peach pie. The light and surprisingly sweet palate continues from there, lithe and lean, but never dull or lacking in any way. This is a rare breed of whisky in today’s market. It reminds me of some of the better Bladnoch bottles of the past with a vivacity and pure fruitedness that gets lost in blended editions.

Lagavulin 8 Year Old Limited Edition Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky (750ml) ($59.99)

Whisky Advocate: “Light in color it may be, but this is no wimp. The nose goes straight to the shore with mineral and salt, but its also sweet, which allows it to be fresh, lively, yet balanced. The palate delivers some menthol, bay laurel, more brininess, a hint of malt, and Parma violet. Everything remains very breezy, with peat smoke being blown from a kiln into salt-laden air. I prefer it to the 12 year old and the price is fantastic. (Summer 2016, Dave Broom)”

K&L Notes: The 200th anniversary bottling of Lagavulin is finally here! A limited edition eight year old single malt whisky that packs all the peat, smoke, salt, and classic Islay flavor of the beloved distillery into a younger, brighter, more assertive expression. Sure to sell fast and sure to be one of the more popular whiskies we sell this year! The special edition celebrates a visit to the distillery be Alfred Banard (author of the classic “The Whisky Distilleries of Scotland”), where he recollected tasting a delicious eight year expression.

David Driscoll | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: April 06, 2017

This 8 year version of Lagavulin is even more quintessentially Islay than the 16. It’s fresher, livelier, peatier, and simply more dynamic on the palate. I also love that Lagavulin paid homage to the classic whisky travel book “The Whisky Distilleries of Scotland” by Alfred Barnard, a writer who visited all 150 active distilleries in the UK back in the late 19th century. He specifically mentions an “exceptionally fine” Lagavulin 8 year expression, and it’s clear from tasting the modern rendition why he felt so strongly. It’s a lovely whisky and it very much speaks to the strength of what may be Scotland’s top producer.

David Othenin-Girard | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: March 28, 2017

Absolute magic! I’ve always been a bigger fan of the out of control cask strength 12 year old over the (still wonderful) standard 16 year. To be able to get an affordable, if slightly tame version of that is an exceptional score! There’s just SO much going on here. This is real deal stinky briny, sooty oily Lagavulin. I’m not even going to bother attempting to describe this further, but this is without a doubt one of the best peaty whiskies on the shelf at any price. Forget the age and focus on the flavor. $60? Laphroaig Cask Strength and Ardbeg Uiggy have another for contender here for best bang for your buck peater in the store and I’m leaning toward the man in the middle. Good old laggy, lag, we don’t deserve you.

Suntory “Hibiki Japanese Harmony” Japanese Whisky (750ml) ($59.99)

91 points Wine Enthusiast: ” *Best of 2016* The newest blended whisky offering from Hibiki is burnished gold in the glass and has a bold aroma that mixes vanilla, fresh pear and a hint of smoke. The smokiness comes forward at the first sip, wrapping around a core of oak and vanilla custard and finishing long, with a mouthwatering bitter chocolate note. (KN)” (03/2016)

Wine & Spirits: ” *Best of 2015* You cant be a Japanese whisky enthusiast without having noticed that theres a shortage of the stuff. What once was readily available is now hard to find. What once was affordable now costs various bodily limbs. It is due to more than a fad. The best Japanese whisky is remarkable stuff, and none are better than the top single malts from Suntory, Yamazaki, Hakushu and the blended whisky Hibiki. Hibiki comes in 12-, 17- and 21-year-old expressions, but even the youngest of these is now allocated. Harmony, the newest release, carries no age statement, indicating that it contains younger whiskies than other bottlings. Nevertheless, this is a welcome concession, with Suntorys classic sense of balance, nuance and delicacy. (JM)” (11/2015)

K&L Notes: The newest incarnation of Suntory’s hugely popular Hibiki series, this time without an age statement attached. The same soft, mellow, vanilla-laden flavor is still here, however. It’s a true harmony of pure Hibiki flavor.

1988 North British 28 Year Old “Old Particular” K&L Exclusive Single Barrel Cask Strength Grain Whisky (750ml) ($69.99)

Our mission to bring fine Scottish grain whisky to the world continues forth, as we offer you another 25+ year old gem for well under $100. This 28 year old cask strength edition of North British, Scotland’s pre-eminent source of all things grain, is like a decadent dose of everything sweet from cotton candy, to maple syrup, to a finish that runs the gambit from sugary cereal milk to a mocha latte finale. On the nose, it almost comes across like a lighter, yet more concentrated Bourbon with the oak dominating the sense, but the elegance at 51.3% ABV is unmatched by any American whiskey currently available. This is a silky and rich whisky from start to finish, made even more attractive by its ridiculous price point to age ratio.

David Driscoll | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: June 30, 2017

This is decadence in a bottle; a non-stop movement of your favorite sweets from the first sip to the incredible finish. Chocolate, maple syrup, sugary cereal on Saturday morning, and an incredible malted milk note on the finish that makes me think I just drank a latte from Starbucks. This is dynamic Scotch whisky that absolutely wows considering the price. I’d suggest bourbon drinkers jump all over this as it carries a lot of similarities to some of the older and harder-to-find mature expressions.

2001 Bowmore 15 Year Old “Old Particular” K&L Exclusive Single Bourbon Barrel Cask Strength Single Malt Whisky (750ml) ($89.99)

Oh, the allure of pure Bourbon barrel-aged Bowmore! It’s been quite a while since we’ve found a pure American oak expression of the legendary Islay malt, but we’re back with a vengeance with the arrival of this 15 year old cask strength edition from Old Particular. Fans of the whisky stalwart will go absolutely bonkers for this one as it’s hands-down one of the best Bowmore casks we’ve ever bottled. The nose is warm wave of sweet oak and gentle phenols, the smoke swirling just faintly behind all that vanilla. The palate is oily, then concentrated with more vanilla, then salty, then smoky, before finally releasing the peat and campfire elements that make Bowmore one of the most distinct whiskies in the world. It’s the sweetness from the Bourbon cask on the finish that won’t quit, however. While you may be imagining a heavy dose of Islay grit, this is one of the rounder and more oak driven Bowmore editions we’ve ever tasted. At 58.5% you might expect a grizzly island beast, but what you actually get is a polished and stunningly rich expression of Bowmore that simply dazzles from the moment it hits your lips.

David Driscoll | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: June 30, 2017

There’s a reason Bowmore = LEGEND in the Scotch whisky industry. When the whisky is on, it’s unbeatable. The very best single malt whiskies I’ve tasted in my career have all been from Bowmore. The best distillery visit I’ve ever had was at Bowmore. My favorite distillery to send customers to is Bowmore. It’s etched in my memory for eternity as some of my most formative moments as a whisky buyer happened inside that heralded facility. This 15 year old single Bourbon cask edition is another legend. It’s going to go down as one of the best casks of 2017, and it’s going to be remembered as one of the most impressive Bowmore editions we’ve ever offered. Unbelievably rich and round on the palate, the smoke and phenolic elements weave seamlessly into that foundation, creating something essentially Islay. This is nostalgia in a bottle for me. It’s a reminder of how unbeatable Bowmore can be when you get the right barrel or batch.

1995 Glen Garioch 20 Year Old “John Milroy” K&L Exclusive Single Barrel Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (750ml) ($119.99)

The wonderful John Milroy’s line of Single Malt Single Cask Scotch is finally back and we’re proud to be the exclusive purveyor of this special brand in California. The legacy of the Milroy’s name goes back to 1964, when John “Jack” Milroy opened a little wine shop at #3 Greek St in an upscale neighborhood on the west end of London. Over the next 30 years, the Milroys and their talented store manager, Doug McIver would make the Milroy name synonymous with exceptional single cask scotch. Eventually, Mr. McIver moved on to become the head of the venerable Berry Bros & Rudd Spirits Department and Jack Milroy struck out on his own creating the equally well regarded “John Milroy Selection” brand of single cask single malts. In 2009, Jack tapped Doug as his pick to take the special line of scotch into the new century – partnering with Berry’s would ensure that only the very best whisky would be bottled under the Milroy name. Doug takes this spiritual legacy seriously and he’s finally put together a portfolio of exceptional single casks and we’re proud to be his partners in California. The wonderful historic Glen Garioch is one of the oldest active distilleries in Scotland. Founded in 1797 behind the tiny hamlet of Old Meldrum, it was in the Morrison Bowmore portfolio when it was acquired by Suntory in 1984. Distilled in early 1995, it’s some of the final spirit distilled before its closure. This ultra malty style transports you directly to barley fields of Aberdeenshire.

David Othenin-Girard | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: March 21, 2017

The first nosing of this stupendous cask takes me right back to Old Meldrum and our first visit to Glen Garioch. Here we have that wonderful Garioch maltiness, that’s almost unmistakable. It could easily be a helping of skirlie ir mealie (oats fried in butter) if it weren’t for that deep gravelly malt note in the background. With a bit of air and a drop of water, the beautiful flinty character of Garioch shines through, almost on the level of the best trocken Rieslings. The nose is vibrant with waxy fruit, grapeseed oil, lemon peel and tiny hints of camphor. The palate is so open, yet wildly complex with the waxy fruit gaining hold culminating in a long finish of herbs and green tea. An absolute treat and a great value for a rare blue chip distillery.

1982 Miltonduff 34 Year Old “John Milroy” K&L Exclusive Single Barrel Cask Strength Single Malt Scotch Whisky (750ml) (Elsewhere $300) ($229.99)

The exceptional Miltonduff distillery, located in the tiny hamlet of the same name, is a rarity on the independent bottler scene due to its importance in the Ballentine’s blend. The blenders must have misplaced this cask because none of them need their Miltonduff this old! Legend says that Miltonduff is located in the old mill for the Pluscarden Abbey, which was erected near by in 1236. That means they’ve likely been making whisky at this site well before the legal production was authorized by the 1823 Excise Act. The distillery was registered in 1824 and eventually purchased by Hiram Walker in 1936 to eleviate pressure on stocks for their popular blended brand Ballantine’s. This stupendous single cask of ultra aged Speyside malt actually represents an incredible value for malt whisky this old. There’s a reason why companies are able to take whisky that’s been around for 3 decades, slap an age statement on it and charge $1000 a bottle. No other product achieves the nuance and complexity of good single malt, particularly one not obstructed by heavy oak or wine influence, after 30+ years in a cold damp Scottish warehouse. Here we have this incredible depth and vibrancy on the nose. Expect notes of quince jelly, fresh apricots, shiso leaf, navel oranges, exotic honey and flinty Riesling. We rarely see malt quite like this and almost never something so old and intellectual at this price. An absolute must have for lovers of the old school style of single malt.

Andrew Stevens | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: May 18, 2017

Like so many of the Milroy line this bottle of Miltonduff is all about beautiful complexity and elegance, the finesse of a master rather than the punch of youth. Slightly sweet floral notes with hints of mint and citrus give way to a layered mid palate of dried orchard fruit, a touch of vanilla and toffee with a long finish. This is the magic of old Miltonduff, this is beautifully matured Scotch.

Jeffrey Jones | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: May 18, 2017

This older single malt is still alive with energy and flavor and is not over the hill. The nose offers notes of honey and caramel. In the mouth it is complex with caramel, malt and honey flavors. With the addition of a splash of water there is a creamy mouthfeel but one does not need water to enjoy this whiskey. This is one of the better old single malts that I have tasted.

David Othenin-Girard | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: March 21, 2017

This old Miltonduff really got me going. It’s not some sherried old monster, but instead the most delicate and complex old style malt. I normally wouldn’t bother with water on something this old, but I found the tiniest possible addition of water served this whisky well. The nose is heady with lemony herbs, linseed oil, fresh Mirabel, and touches of mint. The palate has this dense tropical fruit, deep fudge chocolate, oatmeal with a touch of brown sugar on top. An absolutely lovely old malt in a very delicate restrained style. Totally magical and a must have if you can spare the coin.

1984 Caol Ila 33 Year Old “Old Particular” K&L Exclusive Single Barrel Cask Strength Single Malt Whisky (750ml) ($349.99)

What’s left in this post-Pappy world of whiskey that’s actually worth your hard-earned money and not simply priced according to market scarcity, pop culture desire, and a point-driven collector hysteria? When it comes to purchasing casks of costly, three-figure bottles of booze for our K&L customers, we’ve very, very picky because there are few occasions where we feel that an entire barrel of expensive malt whisky is worth shelling out for. This is one of those occasions. The magic of Islay’s Caol Ila distillery has been shaped, forged, and concentrated for 33 long years inside this very special cask of Old Particular, bringing forth one of the most decadent whisky experiences we’ll have the pleasure of offering you this year. The nose carries with it the very essence of Islay: brine, bogs, wet earth, peat, salt and the sea, all mingling slowly and methodically through the glass. The palate is instantly soft and supple, but at 51.9% it kicks into gear mid-way through and unleashes a wave of ocean spray, sweet barley, smoke, tar, soot and freshly cut peat that still shines through despite more than three decades in wood. While we might normally reserve this type of offering for the holidays, we had to grab this rare edition while we had the chance. Gone are the days of legendary casks like this, which is why costs for 30+ year old Caol Ila generally hover in the $400-$700 range. Hence, don’t miss out on this one; it’s worth every penny of the price.

Andrew Stevens | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: July 05, 2017

Coal Ila is one of those distilleries that is simply magical in my books. When it is young it can be a little overwhelmingly Islay for my taste, and I am someone who drinks a lot of Islay Scotch. However, unlike some whiskey, when it gets up there in age especially north of 30 it becomes some of the best whisky I have ever tasted. This bottle of 33 year old Coal Ila has not lost anything, rather that age has brought all of the notes from this amazing distillery into balance. Seriously, all of the punchy brine and smoke from here has finally come together and brings such complexity, elegance, harmony, and finesse that I can only think of what I originally stated, it is magical.

Jeffrey Jones | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: July 03, 2017

This bottling is lively and is not too old . The age has helped integrate all of the flavor components and to provide some concentration. With this Caol Ila, you get what you want from a single malt from Islay. In the nose there are notes of brine, sea and smoke that are complex and seductive but not too heavy. In the mouth it is bright and rich with malt flavors that are fruity and there is some smoke to complete the picture. With small touch of water, the aromas and flavors all soften up a little.

David Driscoll | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: June 30, 2017

Every time I’m able to track down an old barrel of Islay single malt, I wonder to myself: “Is this the last one?” I remember in the case of Port Ellen, perhaps the most famous of Islay rarities, we were able to do one last cask at $500 a bottle. But when the prices jumped up over $1000, I said “forget it.” For some reason, perhaps because of the availability or the lack of general awareness concerning the distillery’s greatness, I’ve been able to dig out an ultra-mature barrel of Caol Ila about once every two years and negotiate a price that makes sense. This particular Caol Ila whisky, a 33 year old distilled in 1984, is one of the better expressions I’ve found in some time. It’s still fresh, lively, and brimming with Islay character. Supple on the palate and lifted on the finish, it’s everything an peated whisky lover could ever ask for. It’s luxurious, complex, and utterly beautiful from start to finish. Given the current market forces at play, it’s also quite reasonable in price. I wouldn’t have bought it otherwise. The older I get, the pickier I get about my purchases (ironically in a market where one can’t afford to be picky). This is as good of a single malt as we’ll sell this year. Trust me – there’s nothing on the Scotland schedule for the rest of 2017 as awesome as this 33 year Caol Ila.

It’s a big in the K&L spirits department as we’ve just received our annual allocation of what is by far America’s best and most coveted single malt release: the Westland Garryana, made with whisky aged in Oregon Garryana oak barrels for a robust and unique flavor. I was a huge fan of the initial release last year and I’m just as enthused with this year’s release. But I think distiller Matt Hofmann’s words below summarize the creativity of this project better than I can:

We’re compelled to look out so we might see possibilities others don’t recognize. But seeing opportunity is not enough. You have to have the wherewithal to do something about it. During the trip, we explored one of the few remaining natural Garry Oak savannas in the Pacific Northwest. It was coated with lush mosses draping the otherwise bare limbs in the middle of winter. The oaks provided a juxtaposition of a life frozen in time and a world moving steadily forward. Again, we removed ourselves from the moment, wondering in amazement at our place in the world of whiskey, exploring physically at the edge of the earth and figuratively at the cutting edge of single malt philosophy. We, like our whiskies, are products of our time and place. While we look forward to the future we’re building with our new partners in this industry we cannot deny that what we live for now in the present is the exploration, the journey. This latest edition is another step forward along a path that winds all across the Pacific Northwest in search of insight.

I got the pleasure of dining with Matt this past Monday and talking in depth about not only the Garryana project, but also the future of whiskymaking for the distillery. These guys are just on another level, and now that they’ve partnered with Bruichladdich under the Remy umbrella, I think the sky is the limit. For those interested in great whisky, I’d compel you to exercise our one bottle allocation for the 2017 Garryana. For those who are fascinated by terroir in whisky and unique expressions of our American continent, then this is a must buy:

Westland “Garryana 2.1” Limited Edition Single Malt Whisky (750ml) ($139.99) – The second release of Garryana is a more restrained and focused expression of what the gang at Westland Distillery hoped to showcase with their native oak project. Whereas the initial release was a big, bold, and brash expression, full of spice and a bit of smoke, this year’s edition dials back the peat and lets the oak have center stage. With 21% of the blend coming from Oregon Garryana barrels, the impact of that influence is allowed to better integrate into harmony with the remaining 52% of ex-Bourbon-aged malt, along with the 27% virgin oak matured whisky. Still present is the BBQ smoke, the molasses, the coffee bean, and robust flavor that highlighted last year’s release, but this time around its under complete control, bent and shaped into precisely the right proportions. Many of us here at K&L thought the 2016 Garryana was one of the best whiskies of last year, and seeing that this year’s total production was a measly 2600 bottles, we recommend jumping on the one bottle we’re allowing customers to buy. Westland has proven again and again that they are America’s premier single malt distillery. The 2017 release of Garryana should put any last doubts to bed.

New Scotch Whiskey from North Star Spirits Ltd

North Start Spirits are one of the newcomers on the indy whisky scene. Based in Glasgow and overseen by Iain Croucher, there is plenty of experience having been part of the long established A.D. Rattray group. Now he is going it alone with his own Independent bottling company North Star Spirits Ltd. Having set up in 2016, the first batch of releases has already been and gone to much praise and a ‘take a second look’ at this kind of vibe from many scotch enthusiasts.

Recently the second batch of releases, a variety if single casks malts and grains along with single cask bourbon and special blended malt release hit the market and was snapped up quickly. Here at The Whisky Barrel we have managed to get our hands on some of this highly anticipated scotch whiskey, all bottled in May 2017. So let’s see what’s in store…

Let’s See the Scotch

Usually we love to accompany new whiskies like this with a wee tasting as well to get an idea for ourselves what’s happening in the bottle. Alas, this batch of new whiskies have been so popular we missed the boat on samples. However, as you’ll see from the distilleries, ages and vintages of these bottles, they are not to be sniffed at. The labels are quite eye catching too. Crisp, modern and ‘on trend’ with the expanding younger demographic of scotch drinkers. The name and design evokes the obvious connotations of star gazing. The notion of sitting round a fire, chatting, looking up at the stars, scotch in hand. Isn’t that just what whisky should be about?

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Final chapter in the Smugglers’ story

Isle of Arran Distillers release ultimate bottling in history-inspired trilogy 

The award-winning Isle of Arran Distillery will release the final edition in its highly celebrated Smugglers’ Series on the 12^th July.

This bottling marks the conclusion of the much-lauded trilogy which honours the exuberant character of those striving to outwit the Government’s representatives in the pursuit of the production of the famed ‘Arran Waters’.

Like proceeding volumes, ‘The Illicit Stills’ and ‘The High Seas’, Smugglers’ Series vol.3: ‘The Exciseman’ is presented in packaging that mimics a beautiful hardbound book, complete with a cut-out compartment that conceals the bottle.

The Madeira casks used in this final volume, are similar to the ones utilised by Arran’s illicit distillers, who often stored and transported locally produced whisky in old Madeira casks brought over from the continent by their smuggling counterparts. The use of Quarter Casks is a nod to the type of small vessels which would have been the easiest to transport.

The resulting liquid is complex, full of character and a wonderful way to end a series which has so perfectly paid tribute to the independent characters of Arran over the centuries.

James MacTaggart, master distiller of the Isle of Arran Distillery said: “Smugglers’ vol.1 and vol.2 were tremendously popular, selling out within days.

“There is a real desire for whisky with a story, something the Smugglers’ Series has in abundance.

“As the first legal distillery on the island in over 160 years we draw a great deal of inspiration from Arrans whisky-making heritage and are delighted to be able to share it through this, the final bottling of the Smugglers’ Series.”

The iconic citrus notes of the Arran Malt are at the fore of ‘The Exciseman’, mingling with scents evocative of the outdoors and a hint of coastal character.

Notes of apple and vanilla coat the tongue without a hint of dryness. The addition of water opens up the complexity beautifully and reveals a lighter sweetness of candied lemon.

A long, luxurious and yet delightfully fresh finish give a lightness of character whilst the body remains solidly complex and robust.

Non Chill Filtered and with no artificial colouring, Smugglers’ Series Vol.3 ‘The Exciseman’ is bottled at Natural Cask Strength 56.8% abv.

A limited edition release of 8,700 bottles worldwide, will be available online from 11am on the 12^th July at arranwhisky.com and at specialist whisky retailers – but is expected to go fast.

UK RSP £89.99

Notes to editors: For more information visit http://www.arranwhisky.com/ * Accolades for Isle of Arran Distillery include Winner for: Best New Exporter (2004), Queen’s Award for International Trade (2005), Scottish Distiller of the Year (2007) and Scottish Drinks Producer of the Year (2007)

Scottish Field Visitor Experience of the Year 2014 & 2015

Drinks Business Best Contribution to Wine and Spirits Tourism (2017)

Product awards include: Best Whisky Liqueur (2007), ‘Best Single Malt Scotch 12 Years & Under’ for The Arran Malt Amarone Cask Finish (2008) ‘Best Single Malt Scotch 11-15 Years’ for The Arran Malt Sherry Single Cask 1998 (2010) and ‘Best Single Malt Scotch 11-15 Years’ for the Icons of Arran Peacock (2011.) ‘Double Gold Award’ for Arran’s 14 Year Old Single Malt and ‘Gold Award’ for Arran’s 10 Year Old Single Malt at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition (2012). Double Gold in FiftyBest.com awards (2012). Double Gold Medal for the 12 year-old Cask Strength in the San Francisco World Spirits Competition (2013). Double Gold for both the 10 year-old and 12 year old Cask Strength at the China Wine & Spirits Best Value Awards 2014.

THE ENGLISH WHISKY CO. PROUDLY PRESENTS THE LAUNCH OF THIS YEAR’S BATCH OF CHAPTER 17

It is finally here and in the new “Small Batch” clothing… so looks very smart. Chapter 17 is our triple distilled single malt whisky. Triple distilling gives a very light and delicate whisky which is perfect for these balmy summer days.

Only 1641 bottles released. £49.99

BUY NOW

There are some wonderful whiskies from July Outturn still available online at a very attractive price, with a great selection under £50. There are also Society savings on our pair, trio and case offers. Perfect for those planning summer adventures, order now before they are gone forever.

READ OUTTURN         VIEW WHISKY

The Scotch Malt Whisky Society, The Vaults, 87 Giles Street, Leith EH6 6BZ

Contact: sales@smws.com or call 0131 555 2929 (Mon-Fri 9am-4.45pm). Visit the Society at here for membership information

This is your chance to join and to take advantage of their great offers!

Spot the SMWS bottles in this amusing You Tube video

North Star Spirits is a Glasgow based company priding itself on bottling finest whiskies and bourbons. All their products are small batch, no chill filtration and always at cask strength. This is the second series of bottles to come from North Star Spirits and it’s even better than the first. Only available in limited quantities trust us when we say, these bottles are out of this world…

These bottles are available at the Green Welly Stop to purchase please click HERE

The Glenallachie.

One of only 326 bottles available from Cask series 002.

Distilled – 2008.

Bottled – May 2017.

Cask type – Sherry Butt.

Tasting notes.

Nose – Toffee with subtle spice and citrus.

Taste – Jammy cinnamon fruit cake and caramel.

Finish – A triumphant sherry crescendo.

Aged for 8 years.

The Linkwood.

One of only 290 bottles available from Cask series 002.

Distilled – 2006.

Bottled – May 2017.

Cask type – Bourbon Hogshead.

Tasting notes.

Nose – Dried fruit and slightly nutty.

Taste – Lemon sherbet sorbet and creme brule.

Finish – Long lasting dry citrus and marzipan.

Aged for 10 years.

The North British.

One of only 146 bottles available from Cask series 002.

Distilled – 1995.

Bottled – May 2017.

Cask type – Bourbon Barrel.

Tasting notes.

Nose – Dark chocolate, sweet coffee.

Taste – A creamy rum and raisin dessert.

Finish – More coco and tropical sweet fruit.

Aged for 21 years.

The Tullibardine.

One of only 255 bottles available from Cask series 002.

Distilled – 1993.

Bottled – May 2017.

Cask type – Bourbon Hogshead.

Tasting notes.

Nose – Barley, chocolate and vanilla fudge.

Taste – Dry nut, green apples and sweet citrus.

Finish – Sweet, dry and pistachio cream.

Aged for 24 years.

The Islay.

One of only 230 bottles available from Cask series 002.

Distilled – 2008.

Bottled – May 2017.

Cask type – Bourbon Hogshead and finished in Sherry Octaves.

Tasting notes.

Nose – Medicinal peat smoke and dark chocolate.

Taste – Sweet peat and delcate sherry notes.

Finish – Subtle ash, citrus and peppery peat smoke.

Aged for 8 years.

The Bunnahabhain – SOLD OUT.

One of only 84 bottles available from Cask series 002.

Distilled – 1986.

Bottled – May 2017.

Cask type – Bourbon Hogshead.

Tasting notes.

Nose – Delicate smoke. White pepper and cinnamon sticks.

Taste – Rich and oily with vanilla pods.

Finish – Cloves and ginger resonates.

Aged for 30 years.

The Tennessee – SOLD OUT.

One of only 154 bottles available from Cask series 002.

Distilled – 2003.

Bottled – May 2017.

Cask type – American Oak.

Tasting notes.

Nose – Toffee, walnut and charcoal.

Taste – Caramel, vanilla and a touch of citrus.

Finish – A fresh oily extended finish