anCnoc Vintage 2000 is here

anCnoc Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky is proud to announce the release of Vintage 2000, another remarkable single malt in the line of exclusive vintage releases from Knockdhu Distillery, celebrating the art of whisky-making with a modern twist. It has become a tradition at anCnoc to annually offer vintage releases from consecutive years to the most dedicated whisky fans around the world.

Only 1,000 cases of anCnoc Vintage 2000 will be made available in select markets from September 2014. The whisky was selected and bottled with the most discerning whisky drinker in mind and will offer a wonderful insight into the distillery style and the impact of on-site maturation in a combination of Spanish oak ex-sherry butts and American oak ex-bourbon barrels.

anCnoc Vintage 2000 has been bottled non chill-filtered, at its natural colour and at the premium strength of 46% ABV.

Hot copper in colour, the whisky is dark and masculine on the nose. A surge of ground Oriental spices, burned vanilla and unrefined cocoa beans gradually relaxes its grip and subtle aromas of lemon grass, orange peel and fragrant cut flowers come to life, unmistakably highlighting the provenance of this remarkable Vintage. On the palate it is smooth but firm-structured, envelops the mouth in creamy vanilla, spicy sherry notes, pralines and silky tannins. Lively citrus follows shortly after leading to a long, balanced finish, finally revealing a whiff of wood smoke.

anCnoc Assistant Brand Manager Stephanie Bridge commented:

“The unique taste profile of the Vintage 2000 is set to be a hit with malt enthusiasts everywhere. Releasing the next Vintage in the anCnoc collection marks the end of a very exciting spring and summer for the brand. I’m confident that the exclusive expression will be a welcome addition to anyone’s malt collection.”

anCnoc Vintage 2000 will be available in the UK, Sweden, Japan and Russia, to name but a few markets, at a recommended retail price of £55.

Notes 

• anCnoc [a-nock] Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky is produced at Knockdhu Distillery in the village of Knock near Huntly
• The distillery was established in 1894 and is considered one of the most enchanting in Scotland
• The distillery uses traditional production techniques including a time-honoured method of condensing distillate in worm tubs
• Core expressions of anCnoc include a 12 Year Old, anCnoc 16 Year Old and anCnoc 22 Year Old
• In 2012 super premium anCnoc 35 year old was launched across selected markets worldwide to much critical acclaim
• In 2014 anCnoc launched the Peaty Collection, a selection of peated single malt whiskies from Knockdhu Distillery. To date, the Collection consists anCnoc Rutter, Flaughter, Tushkar (Swedish exclusive) and Cutter, all named after traditional peat-cutting tools.

Newly arrived to the Shop

Prichard’s Distillery Single Malt Whiskey

Price $49.99

“With the same focus on quality as all our spirits, Benjamin Prichard’s Single Malt Whiskey has been reviewed with great acclaim. Steeped in Celtic origins, Benjamin Prichard’s Single Malt whiskey is distilled according to true Irish traditions; its rich malt flavors truly reflecting the character of the finest single malt whiskies. This superb whiskey has been distilled in our traditional copper pot stills and aged in our small, fifteen gallon barrels.” – The Distillery

IT’S TIME TO KICK BACK AND RELAX WITH ONE OF OCTOBER’S SEVEN SENSATIONAL BOTTLINGS, SO WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?

THE CLOCK IS TICKING!

Bottle notes are below; for full tasting notes please visit http://www.smws.ca/

Also, be sure to sign up for November’s tasting on Friday, November 7th at The Strath in Victoria (by phone at 250-370-9463 or in person at 919 Douglas Street). The tastings always sell out, so don’t delay.

Old & dignified

Cask No. 41.47 Art in a bookshop café

24 years old; refill hogshead; 46.4%

An ever-changing nose that suggests paintings in a bookshop café, fruit falling in orchards, lots of sweet delights (heather honey, chocolate gateau etc) and pepper. The palate delivers beautiful sweetness (toffee, butterscotch, caramel shortcake) with poster paint, chewed pencils and pot-pourri.

Spicy & sweet

Cask No. 48.39 Red liquorice shoelaces

10 years old; 1st fill barrel; 57.4%

Fruity to start with apricots and orange oil followed by ‘Rice Krispie cakes’. In the taste a Thai green curry with lemon grass, coconut milk and coriander. With water aromas of Refreshers and the flavour, red liquorice and ginger nut biscuits dipped in tea.

Young & spritely

Cask No. 76.109 Sinfully seductive

8 years old; 1st fill barrel; 59.5%

The nose is attractively perfumed and sinfully seductive – floral notes, cereals, vanilla custard and fresh, clean fruits. The palate has iced donuts, dried fruits, lemon sorbet, pears and blossoms (an evocation of Spring); but also subtle woody spice and salty leather.

Spicy & dry

Cask No. 73.61 A work of art

24 years old; refill sherry butt; 57.2%

We are in a carpenter’s workshop restoring antique mahogany furniture. Elegant woody aromas are mixed in with the smoke of a Cuban cigar. The taste is sweet with a surprisingly dry finish. Water brings out a bag of nuts and a glass of Oloroso Dulce Sherry.

Peated

Cask No. 3.210 Sooty and sweet

17 years old; refill hogshead; 58.9%

Sooty, with burnt streaky bacon, then tide-line tar, sea-shells, beach pebbles, plastic rope. A sweet and very smoky taste, with liquorice, mixed herbs and lime marmalade.

Peated

Cask No. 66.46 ‘Pretty Woman’ in a new Maserati

11 years old; refill sherry butt; 56.7%

The nose has plum, dark cherry, smoky ribs and wood and leather (Julia Roberts wearing Pretty Woman boots in a new Maserati). The palate, apart from a baseball bat in the mouth, has tar, smoke, toffee and chicory coffee; fantastic intensity.

Peated

Cask No. 29.135 Fisherman’s Friend & aniseed lozenges

17 years old; refill barrel; 60.7%

Salty fish boxes, seaweed, beach bonfire, medicinal and wet sand neat on the nose, the taste a smoldering charcoal barbeque with langoustines being grilled. Adding water a doctors bag, salty old ropes and sweet brown sugar as well as emptying last night’s catch with a Fisherman’s Friend in your mouth.

http://www.smws.ca

News release from Gordon & MacPhail 

Historic whisky releases mark new era for family firm

A unique and historic series of whiskies is to be launched by single malt specialists Gordon & MacPhail to celebrate the steady transition of the family-owned business to the next generation.

Four extremely rare Speyside whiskies chosen jointly by members of the third and fourth generations of the Urquhart family will be released under the prestigious Private Collection Ultra label this autumn.

The whiskies are:

• A 61 Year Old Linkwood, the oldest ever released, from cask No.279 of Linkwood in the company warehouses, selected by retired director Rosemary Rankin and her son Stephen Rankin, Gordon & MacPhail’s Director of UK Sales

• A 62 Year Old Glenlivet initially matured in first fill Hogshead before being transferred to another first fill Hogshead in January 1969, selected by retired Managing Director Ian Urquhart, his son Neil, Gordon & MacPhail’s Director of Logistics and Facilities, and daughter Jenny Houldsworth, who is a Non-Executive Director of the company

• A 63 Year Old Mortlach from the company’s last cask of 1951 Mortlach, selected by retired Joint Managing Director David Urquhart and his twin sons Stuart, Gordon & MacPhail’s Whisky Supply Manager, and Richard, Export Sales Executive

• A 57 Year Old Strathisla, the oldest ever released, selected by current Managing Director Michael Urquhart and his daughter Laura Urquhart, Gordon & MacPhail Brand Manager

Rosemary, Ian, David and Michael are the daughter and sons of Gordon & MacPhail pioneer George Urquhart, who succeeded his father John in the business and established its reputation as custodian of some of Scotland’s rarest and oldest single malt Scotch whiskies.

Michael Urquhart, who will retire as Managing Director of Gordon & MacPhail this autumn, said: “The release of the four whiskies marks a historical period of time for Gordon & MacPhail. Our business is built on a foundation of the long term vision and of the handing down of knowledge and expertise, along with stocks of maturing whiskies, to future generations.

“Embracing this philosophy the Executive Directors, members of the fourth generation of the Urquhart family and the whole team at Gordon & MacPhail, look forward to continuing to release single malt whiskies of the highest quality for whisky drinkers around the world to enjoy.”

The four whiskies in the Gordon & MacPhail Private Collection Ultra are presented in beautifully-designed decanters, individually numbered, with the whisky details engraved and in-filled with silver colour. A silver-plated neck collar and stopper adorns each decanter.

Wood, metal and glass are combined in a striking and innovative way to protect and display the whisky; the decanter nestles in a glass-bottomed pack, revealing a hint of the whisky colour.

A series of four books by whisky writer Jonny McCormick, one for each of the whiskies, tells the story of Gordon & MacPhail and the whisky and regales the reader with tales of origins and ancestry, of people, place and belonging.

Mr McCormick said: “It has been a privilege to sit down with each of the four members of the third generation and their children already working in the business.

“As well as revealing a good deal about themselves, they gave some powerful insights into what has made this family business such an extraordinary success for more than 100 years.”

Fifty-five decanters of Gordon & MacPhail Private Collection Ultra Linkwood 1953 will be released for sale worldwide; sixty-nine of the Glenlivet 1952; sixty-one of the Mortlach 1951; and sixty-one of the Strathisla 1957. The UK recommended retail price will be £6,250 for each decanter (prices may vary in export markets because of duty and import taxes).

About Gordon & MacPhail 

Gordon & MacPhail is an independent, family-owned Scotch whisky specialist which has been based in Elgin, Moray, since 1895. Four generations of the Urquhart family have continued the tradition of seeking out the best and rarest Scotch whiskies.

Since its foundation, Gordon & MacPhail’s policy has been to send casks to distilleries throughout Scotland, fill them with “new make” spirit and mature them either at the distillery of origin or in the firm’s own bonded warehouses in Elgin.

Now one of the world’s leading malt whisky specialists, Gordon & MacPhail exports to more than 60 countries. It offers more than 300 presentations of own-bottled single malts. In 2009, Gordon & MacPhail was awarded the prestigious Queen’s Award for Enterprise in International Trade; an honour that was bestowed on the business again in 2013 with a visit from HRH The Princess Royal.

In 1993 Gordon & MacPhail purchased Benromach Distillery and re-equipped it before it was officially opened by HRH Prince Charles in 1998. A four star visitor centre is open to the public throughout the year for tours and tastings. Benromach distillery is a member of the world famous Malt Whisky Trail.

In 2010 Gordon & MacPhail made history by bottling the oldest cask ever released – a 70 Year Old Mortlach, distilled in 1938. They followed this up by releasing a 70 Year Old Glenlivet in 2011.

Gordon & MacPhail is proud of its Moray roots and the company, its directors and its staff play an active role in their local community by supporting local charities and sponsoring local events.

Scotland – Single Malt Scotch

• Balvenie 15 Year Old Single Barrel Single Malt Whisky 750ml – 6 available ($99.99)
• The Lost Distillery Company “Gerston” Blended Malt Scotch Whisky 750ml – 6 available ($64.99)

• The Lost Distillery Company “Gerston Vintage” Blended Malt Scotch Whisky 750ml – 3 available ($299.99)

• The Lost Distillery Company “Stratheden Vintage” Blended Malt Scotch Whisky 750ml – 3 available ($299.99)

• Berry Bros & Rudd Blue Hanger 7th Release Blended Single Malt Whisky 750ml – 6 available ($99.99)

• Macallan 62 Year Lalique Decanter Single Malt 750ml – 1 available ($31,999.00)

United States – Bourbon and Rye

• Henry Mckenna 10 Year Old BIB Straight Kentucky Bourbon Whiskey 750ml ($26.99)

United States – Single Malt Scotch

• Clear Creek McCarthy’s 2014 Release Oregon Single Malt Whiskey 750ml ($54.99)
  Whisky Advocate: “3 year old peated malt whisky, aged in Oregon oak. Rich nose of peat—burning leaves, a touch of sweet diesel—and fresh oak. There’s no stinting on the peat; it’s young, it’s in your face. Whiskey to stand toe-to-toe with Portland’s hopped-to-blazes beers. Not just peat: creamy malt makes a solid floor and an exit that may be the most complex part of the experience. Refined for a 3 year old. Limited annual release. (Vol. 22, #4)” K&L Notes: The new Fall 2014 release of McCarthy’s is here! Highly anticipated and sure to sell fast. Whereas the last batch carried more new oak richness and little smoke, the peat is back this time around, but with another dose of big oak. Both are equally in check and work together quite lovely. One of the best batches we’ve tasted yet. Much improved over the last one for sure.

K&L Wine Merchants
http://www.klwines.com
Phone: 877-KLWines (toll free 877-559-4637)
Email: wine@klwines.com
San Francisco, Redwood City, Hollywood CA

Bourbon season is upon us! We have already seen releases such as Parker’s Heritage, Four Roses Limited Small Batch / Single Barrel and Buffalo Trace’s Stagg JR and Elmer T. Lee Limited. We are anxiously awaiting the release of Old Forester Birthday Bourbon; we are told this will happen very soon.

A few weeks back John Hughes and Eric Brown were entrusted by the rest of the “Private Barrel Committee” to blend our new batch of Angel’s Envy in Louisville with Wes Henderson. We learned a lot from Wes about blending, what a great experience. Later that day, Master Distiller Willie Pratt took us on a tour of the new and still under construction Michter’s Distillery. What an impressive facility. Willie Pratt was a joy to talk to and hang out with. We could have talked with him for hours.

Cheers,
-The Party Source Spirits Department

We are very excited about a specific private barrel that has just arrived. High West Double Rye finished in a used bourbon barrel for 20 months. This High West Whiskey is spectacular, Rye with a subtle sweet bourbon finish. We love this Whiskey!

We are also very excited about a specific barrel coming from our recent trip to Wild Turkey. The First Barrel of Russell’s Reserve that Eddie Russell opened for us was like heaven. We immediately said we will take that one! The Russell’s Reserve Private Barrels should be here in the coming weeks.

New private barrels in stock:

HIGH WEST Double Rye Whiskey TPS Private Barrel – $49.99

JEFFERSON’S Small Batch Bourbon TPS Private Barrel – $22.49

SMOOTH AMBLER Old Scout Bourbon 8 Year TPS Private Barrel #892 – $43.99

SMOOTH AMBLER Old Scout Bourbon 9 Year TPS Private Barrel #869 – $43.99

We also have the following private barrel selections due in the following weeks:

ANGELS ENVY Port Finish Bourbon
BUFFALO TRACE Bourbon
W.L. WELLER 107 Antique Bourbon
1792 RIDGEMONT Reserve Barrel Select Bourbon
RUSSEL’S RESERVE Single Barrel Bourbon
WILD TURKEY Kentucky Spirit Bourbon
JEFFERSON’S Reserve Very Old Bourbon
FOUR ROSES Single Barrel Bourbon
FOUR ROSES Barrel Strength Un-Chill Filtered
KNOB CREEK Single Barrel Reserve Bourbon
OLD FORESTER Single Barrel Bourbon

SOUTHERN COMFORT® RELEASES

NEW HOLIDAY GINGERBREAD SPICE

Limited-Edition Flavor Debuts in October for Holiday Season as the Perfect Party Gift 

(Louisville, Ky.) – Nothing makes it feel more like the holidays than warm gingerbread and a hint of spice. Southern Comfort knows the feeling – and they’ve bottled it just in time for the holidays. To celebrate the season, Southern Comfort introduces Gingerbread Spice – a zesty and smooth combination of warm gingerbread flavors, creamy vanilla and subtle notes of Southern Comfort. Upon first sip, tasters are met with an enticing mix of fresh baked sweet rolls and brown spices, finishing with that classic Southern Comfort spice complimented by warm gingerbread and a touch of cinnamon. 

With its festive holiday packaging and gift tag, Gingerbread Spice makes the perfect holiday party gift or simply a great gift to yourself. Best served warm to bring out its dynamic notes, try Gingerbread Spice by itself or mixed into your favorite holiday cocktails, like the Gingerbread House Cider – the perfect blend of Gingerbread Spice and hot cider, topped with a cinnamon stick for that extra seasonal kick. Be sure to check out more holiday-inspired recipes at southerncomfort.com. 

“Gingerbread is one of the most popular holiday flavors. You see it just about everywhere – in coffee, seasonal sweets, and now in your favorite spirit.” said Jennifer Powell, Southern Comfort Brand Director. “Southern Comfort’s unique flavor is mixed with hints of Gingerbread and cinnamon spice to create a delicious, ready to serve holiday drink that’s sure to become a holiday tradition.” 

Southern Comfort Gingerbread Spice will be available for a suggested retail price of $11.99 nationwide starting today through the holiday season, wherever wine and spirits are sold. Join the conversation online with #GiveComfort. 

About Southern Comfort

Southern Comfort®, a fruit, spice, and whiskey flavored liqueur, was created in New Orleans by bartender M.W. Heron in 1874. Today, it is enjoyed by friends in over 100 countries around the world and continues to grow as an icon brand. Please visit us at SouthernComfort.com and facebook.com/southerncomfort. 

Please Drink Responsibly.

Spirit Specialty, 15% Alc. by Volume, Southern Comfort Company, Louisville, KY ©2014

Macallan Rare Cask Single Malt Whisky 750ml (Elsewhere $300) ($269.99)

Macallan’s new Rare Cask uses handpicked first-fill sherry casks from the top 1% of barrels currently aging at the distillery. The result is a richer, darker, more chocolately version of Macallan with a thicker profile and a complex palate of raisins, sultana, orange peel, and ginger. With the current market craze for first-fill sherry whisky, a la Aberlour A’Bunadh and Glendronach, the Rare Cask represents an aggressive and more modern approach from the typically conservative Macallan. This is bold, chewy, full-bodied single malt that showcases the deep stocks and the immaculate wood management from Scotland’s most iconic distillery. It’s a whisky that provides a peek into the most choice sherry-aged whiskies currently available. (NOTE: The Macallan Rare Cask comes with a gift box which will ship as an additional bottle charge)

K&L Wine Merchants
http://www.klwines.com/
Phone: 877-KLWines (toll free 877-559-4637)
Email: wine@klwines.com
San Francisco, Redwood City, Hollywood CA

Macallan Rare Cask Single Malt Whisky 750ml (Elsewhere $300) ($269.99)
Macallan’s new Rare Cask uses handpicked first-fill sherry casks from the top 1% of barrels currently aging at the distillery. The result is a richer, darker, more chocolately version of Macallan with a thicker profile and a complex palate of raisins, sultana, orange peel, and ginger. With the current market craze for first-fill sherry whisky, a la Aberlour A’Bunadh and Glendronach, the Rare Cask represents an aggressive and more modern approach from the typically conservative Macallan. This is bold, chewy, full-bodied single malt that showcases the deep stocks and the immaculate wood management from Scotland’s most iconic distillery. It’s a whisky that provides a peek into the most choice sherry-aged whiskies currently available. (NOTE: The Macallan Rare Cask comes with a gift box which will ship as an additional bottle charge)

BenRiach 17 Year Old Solstice 2nd Edition Single Malt Whisky 750ml ($99.99)
This peated, port-finished malt from Benriach is an absolute home run. It’s got rich, dark-fruited flavor and blast of campfire smoke on the finish. It’s straight-up challenge to Lagavulin 16 in style, with both the richness and the peat–and it’s better executed. Really good stuff. This is what I wish the Laphroaig Cairdeas tasted like! -David Driscoll, K&L Spirits Buyer

K&L Wine Merchants
http://www.klwines.com
Phone: 877-KLWines (toll free 877-559-4637)
Email: wine@klwines.com
San Francisco, Redwood City, Hollywood CA