Glengoyne 25 Year Old Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky

$308.29

Glengoyne 25 Year Old Highland single malt Scotch whiskey. This bright amber beauty has red fruits, leather and brown sugar on the nose and soft oak, cinnamon, stewed fruits and a Seville marmalade tang on the palate.

Nose: Red Fruits, old leather and brown sugar.

Taste: Soft oak, cinnamon, stewed fruits and a Seville marmalade tang.

Finish: Very long, with spicy liquorice, slowly drying.

Glengoyne Distillery was established as Burnfoot of Drumgoyne Distillery in 1833 by George Connel in Scotland’s Highland whisky region although its warehouses rest across the road in the Lowland whisky region. All the malt is dried by hot air and so all Glengoyne whisky is unpeated and on site maturation is in sherry and bourbon casks in addition to some Japanese and Scottish oak casks. Glengoyne Distillery has a visitor centre and offers distillery tours.

www.ralfy.com delves a bit further into the stuff called ‘traditional pot still Irish whiskey’ with Whisky Review 561 – Powers Signature Pot Still Whiskey

Whisky & Ice – Curling in Scotland for our Norwegian friends

It is over, it was good, it was enjoyable, it will happen again. Our four intrepid curlers from Norway came to Scotland again for the curling, the scenery, the fun – and the whisky! They had it all.

2 November, an early start for Paul (driving), up at a silly hour to reach Broughty Ferry for Liz and 7am, a cuppa then on the road to Aberdeen airport to meet the guys at 9.20. Once we had them we wandered to the van and loaded luggage, even before the engine turned, Liz had given each of them an Innis & Gunn beer – Toasted Oak IPA 5.6% ABV. India Pale Ale first made its name in the 19th century. Its fervent hoppy character hails from the unique addition of large quantities of hops at three separate points during brewing. The result is a beer that’s rounded yet refreshing, with delicate floral notes and oodles of zesty freshness. It didnee last long! Almost an hour later we were at Huntly, where we turned off for Dufftown (and its 7 distilleries), sadly we drove through this time on our way to Rothes, where we did stop at Glen Grant distillery. Gruppo Campari is the 6th largest worldwide in the premium spirits industry, and marketed in more than 190 countries in the world. We toured their Rothes distillery – and enjoyed it and the drams that followed. Lunch break – we drove to the leisure centre, then met up with the opposing team – Elgin Rotary Curling Club, a very local club selected a team to compete with us in the first “International” curling for 2015. Sadly we lost, actually it was 4 ends each, but Elgin had more points, no matter, always another match to play. At the hotel they relaxed a wee while, then headed out for a fish supper (fish ‘n’ chips), a very good first day.

3 November, a wee lie in, as curling started at 10am, ten minutes from the hotel. Fochabers curling club were the team this morning and aye, we won! A good two hour session and the guys were overjoyed, handing out (as they do) drams and pin badges and saying thanks you and goodbyes. We scampered doon to Glenfiddich for a great lunch. This was a good easy relaxing lunch with great food I might add, they also enjoyed Spey Stout beers. This was followed at 2pm by The secrets of Solera. Including a visit to warehouse 8, the malt masters blending room: here they enjoyed tasting a number of cask-strength samples and a chance to step into Malt Master; Brian Kinsman’s role, preparing their very own version of Glenfiddich 15 year old by combining different cask samples together. A shopping diversion then back to the hotel. Rest – drink – chill out – take a walk – for later we met up and enjoyed a few drinks at the bar, followed by a Whisky Dinner. Whisky Cured Gravlax with Talisker 10 year old, Islay Beef Fillet with Caol Ila 12 year old, Vanilla Brulee with Ice Cold Dalwhinnie 15 yo., Coffee – After Dinner Mints. All enjoyed this, Liz and Paul have experienced this many times and once again it didnee disappoint. Specially the beef – oooooooooooooooooh! As the guys drank a few more drams, Liz and Paul took a taxi back to the cottage.

4 November, the main curling event – two sessions today: 10am and 1pm, each two hours duration. First up a ladies team Moray Firth ladies: Helen, Marilyn, Susan and Linda, the Norsemen won! They were delighted, second win in three matches. Lunch of soup and sandwiches, followed by a team potched together with whisky guys from Elgin, actually one lady also. I must say, our Vikings had met their match, aye they got hammered. After one end, they knew how good these folks were, but they enjoyed the time there, two wins, two defeats. We showed them Elgin cathedral, Johnstons shop, dropping them in town (they wanted to shop in M&S!). They ended the night with an Indian meal.

Innis & Gunn Original 6.6% ABV, whose accidental discovery in 2003 lies brings its singular taste – notes of biscuit, malt and vanilla swirling within a creamy, mellow character. A pioneering beer, its flavour finds favour with brewing juries, blind tasting panels and barflies alike, also our Vikings who drank it easily. As they did with several whiskies during the trip whilst aboard the van, we always have drams (in correct glasses by the way) on tour, our drams this time included, Indian peated, Scottish peated and non peated, and Scots blends, needless to say – all were happy – apart from Paul who was driving.

5 November, an early start picking the guys up at the hotel at 7.30 for the drive to Aberdeen airport. Reaching the airport just after 9am, sad farewells and hugs and the threats “we’ll be back!” It was yet another great tour we all enjoyed.

Liz, Paul and the Norwegian Curlers; Carl, Calle, Morten & Erik from the Stabek Curling Club.

 http://www.whiskytours.scot/

It’s been a while in the making, but we’ve now officially launched our new website at glengoyne.com – and we wanted you to be the first to know. We hope you like it!

New website: tradition, preserved

No-one takes more time and care. That has always been true of our whisky – and we took the same meticulous approach to our website. Every page, every image, every word has been crafted to bring you closer to the Glengoyne Way.

As a member of the Glengoyne Family, we always want to hear your feedback. Keep in touch with us on Facebook and Twitter, or send us an email. Maybe even raise a celebratory dram to this new and exciting chapter in the history of Glengoyne! If you have the time, please take a moment to fill in the questionnaire that will pop-up during your visit to the new website. This will help us develop the website further. Visit www.glengoyne.com

Robbie Hughes

Distillery Manager

Listed below are just a few of the great gift packs that we have available for the Festive Season. (Click Here for the full selection). Our current pick of the bunch would be the Glenfarclas Tasting Pack with two free miniatures in a great presentation box, all for the same price as a regular bottle of the Glenfarclas 15 year old (£48.95). An excellent, well regarded sherried Speyside (not peaty!) single malt whisky, in an ideal gift presentation pack at amazing value.

BALLANTINE’S HARD FIRED UNVEILED

Ballantine’s, Europe’s No.1 Scotch whisky and the No.2 Scotch whisky in the world, has launched Ballantine’s Hard Fired, an innovative expression that introduces a bespoke process in the production of Scotch whisky and provides a unique experience within the Ballantine’s family. Ballantine’s Hard Fired is set to appeal to whisky drinkers seeking authenticity and craftsmanship in new Scotch styles.

The taste profile of Ballantine’s Hard Fired whisky has been developed through the transformative power of fire. The signature hard firing of the barrels unlocks vanilla notes, hints of smoke and spice and provides a distinctive smoothness, resulting in a characterful and uniquely balanced whisky.

Ballantine’s Hard Fired’s bespoke process starts with the individual selection of American oak barrels by the wood management team. The barrels are then sent to highly skilled craftsmen at the cooperage to char them for a second time – a process known as ‘hard firing’ – while judging the char length and intensity by sight. Finally, Ballantine’s Master Blender Sandy Hyslop noses each barrel and selects those best to be filled with a unique Ballantine’s blend for resting.

Drawing on his expertise, Sandy Hyslop comments: “Ballantine’s Hard Fired showcases the natural and unique results that American oak and fire produce on Scotch whisky. When charred, casks form a natural layer of caramelised wood sugars that react with whisky and a double char understandably intensifies this effect. The result is a smooth, creamy and subtly smoky Scotch whisky with tasting notes of sweet honey, soft red apples and tangy liquorice. This balanced flavour profile results in a premium whisky that sits well within the Ballantine’s family style while offering something new.”

Peter Moore, Ballantine’s Global Brand Director, comments: “Ballantine’s Hard Fired is a natural progression for the brand as we continue to innovate within the Scotch whisky category. The double charring naturally unlocks flavour, creating a whisky that stays true to our philosophy of craftsmanship, authenticity and outstanding flavour. Ballantine’s Hard Fired is a modern, masculine expression that responds to current trends in the whisky market that demand new experiences while enjoying Scotch whisky.”
Ballantine’s Hard Fired has a 40% ABV and will be available from November onwards in Poland and France before rolling out globally in March 2016; price varies depending on the market. A global campaign capturing the influence of fire on the bespoke production process has been developed alongside new exciting signature serves to support the launch internationally.

NOTES

Ballantine’s Hard Fired tasting notes:
Nose: Sweet ripe fruits of pears and blackcurrants, vanilla, butterscotch toffee and a gentle wisp of bonfire smoke.
Taste: Sweet honey, soft red apples, a hint of tangy liquorice and gentle smoke.
Finish: Long vanilla finish that is both sweet and slightly tangy.

About Ballantine’s
Ballantine’s is the No.1 Scotch whisky in Europe and the No.2 Scotch whisky in the world with the range selling over 70 million bottles a year worldwide. Ballantine’s has won more than 130 trophies and medals at international competitions in the past 10 years for its outstanding quality, as a result of its unique richness of character and perfect balance. The range, from Ballantine’s Finest to the exclusive 40 Year Old, is the most extensive in the world of Scotch and is maintained by Master Blender Sandy Hyslop, continuing the brand’s tradition of Master Blenders that dates back to 1827. In 2013, Ballantine’s continued its innovative approach by launching Ballantine’s Brasil, a spirit drink made from selectively cask steeping Scotch whisky with Brazilian lime peel.
www.ballantines.com

@Ballantines

About Chivas Brothers
Chivas Brothers is the Scotch whisky and premium gin business of Pernod Ricard, the world’s co-leader in wines and spirits. Chivas Brothers’ award-winning portfolio features some of the world’s most revered Scotch whisky brands including Chivas Regal, the world’s first luxury whisky and the No.1 Scotch whisky in China; Ballantine’s, Europe’s No.1 Scotch whisky; The Glenlivet, the world’s No.1 single malt whisky; and Royal Salute, the world’s only exclusively prestige Scotch whisky range. The portfolio also includes two of the world’s leading English gins – Beefeater, the world’s most awarded premium gin, and Plymouth gin – plus a selection of highly acclaimed single malt whiskies, including Aberlour, Longmorn, Scapa, Strathisla and Tormore. The range is completed by a collection of blended Scotch whiskies operating in many of the world’s key whisky markets which includes 100 Pipers, Clan Campbell, Something Special and Passport Scotch.
www.chivasspirit.com

@ChivasNewsRoom

About Pernod Ricard
Pernod Ricard is the world’s co-leader in wines and spirits with consolidated Sales of € 8,558 million in 2014/15. Created in 1975 by the merger of Ricard and Pernod, the Group has undergone sustained development, based on both organic growth and acquisitions: Seagram (2001), Allied Domecq (2005) and Vin&Sprit (2008). Pernod Ricard holds one of the most prestigious brand portfolios in the sector: Absolut Vodka, Ricard pastis, Ballantine’s, Chivas Regal, Royal Salute and The Glenlivet Scotch whiskies, Jameson Irish whiskey, Martell cognac, Havana Club rum, Beefeater gin, Kahlúa and Malibu liqueurs, Mumm and Perrier-Jouët champagnes, as well Jacob’s Creek, Brancott Estate, Campo Viejo, Graffigna and Kenwood wines. Pernod Ricard employs a workforce of approximately 18,000 people and operates through a decentralised organisation, with 6 “Brand Companies” and 80 “Market Companies” established in each key market. Pernod Ricard is strongly committed to a sustainable development policy and encourages responsible consumption. Pernod Ricard’s strategy and ambition are based on 3 key values that guide its expansion: entrepreneurial spirit, mutual trust and a strong sense of ethics. Pernod Ricard is listed on Euronext (Ticker: RI; ISIN code: FR0000120693) and is part of the CAC 40 index.
www.pernod-ricard.com

We’re ramping things up as we edge closer to the holiday season so we have EIGHT new releases to tempt your tastebuds this month.

With one from the distillery that started it all (distillery “No. 1”) to three peaty pleasures for sitting around the fire, you’re bound to find your perfect dram in our November Outturn!

Enjoy the brief bottle notes below and visit http://www.smws.ca/ for the full tasting notes.

CASK No. 5.42  BATHED IN A BAKER’S SHOP 

13 years old; refill hogshead;  59.5%; Juicy, oak & vanilla

Bubble baths and freshly laundered towels. Lively spritz of green grape, lemonade lollies and soothing vanilla Jell-O pudding. Elderflower soap and brioche on waxed paper. Newly laundered crochet blanket and iced christening cake decorated with white lilies and lychee.

CASK No. 1.185  RUSSIAN, JAMAICAN, TURKISH, THAI

30 years old; refill hogshead; 54.5%; Old & dignified

The nose’s sweet fabric (butterscotch, manuka, Turkish Delight, peanut brittle) contains threads of tobacco leaf, sandalwood, After Eights and leather. The palate includes Russian caramels, Jamaican gingerbread, treacle toffee and polished oak; water creates a lemon and blackcurrant tingling élan vital.

CASK No. 48.58  MEDIEVAL JOUSTING DRAM

11 years old; 1st fill barrel; 63%; Spicy & sweet

The many-faceted nose offers waxy flowers, tree bark, apples, raspberries and sweeter seductions (millionaires’ shortbread, coconut macaroons, cherry gateau). On the palate, Sir Sweet (honeycomb, iced caramels, chocolate, jammy custard) jousts a friendly tournament with Sir Heat (chili, pepper, ginger).

CASK No. 26.92  HARD-GLAZED PRETZEL STICKS

28 years old; refill butt; 58.2%; Spicy & sweet

Lemon aromas dominate the neat nose before a yeastiness of rye sourdough appears. The taste is of sweet wood smoke and pork scratchings and crystallized oranges. With water fresh like a sea breeze and the taste a mixture between bacon breakfast cake and Salzstangen.

CASK No. 42.15  OSCILLATIONS OF LIGHT AND SHADE

19 years old; refill hogshead; 58.6%; Deep, rich & dried fruits

The nose has pineapple, mango, golden syrup and washing in the sun; darker notes include dates, coffee dregs, marmalade and Christmas cake. The palate is wonderfully tasty – caramelized pineapple, dark cherries in syrup, toffee, exotic fruits and some ginger, chili heat.

CASK No. 3.237  CANDLE TAKINGS ITS LAST BREATH

17 years old; refill butt; 57.2%; Oily & coastal

A fairly robust nose; oily smoked mackerels, sherry soaked sultanas, sticky barbecue ribs and salty pork scratchings. Big on the palate – a real butcher’s barbecue! Water turns it into a sherry soaked crème brulee with a strong sweet espresso on the side.

CASK No. 53.222  THE THREE LITTLE PIGS

13 years old; refill hogshead; 58.4%; Peated

Once upon a time there were three little pigs. They were roasted with rosemary, barbecued with apricots and stewed with hoisin sauce. They tasted of crackling and maple cured bacon – smoky with a wonderful mouthfeel. And the big bad wolf lived happily ever after.

CASK No. 66.65  HOLY SMOKE!

10 years old; 1st fill white wine hogshead; 62.7%; Heavily peated

Aromas of smoky bacon crisps, peppered pork sausages, witch hazel gel and turmeric tea, while on the palate a ‘smoke explosion’ or ‘breathing diesel’. Water added a Thai green prawn curry and sweet and sour pork roast. Love it or hate it.

http://www.smws.ca/

KWM PRE CHRISTMAS STORE WIDE SALE!

The savings begin this Friday November 13 and continue until Sunday November 15. All in store wine will be discounted 15% and some even more! All select in store whisky will be discounted 10% with some special items offered at further discounts. All in store beer will be discounted 5%. You can order online or better yet, pay us a visit. No phone orders accepted or further discounts offered.

Due to our annual Wine Festival our store will close at 6:00pm on Friday November 13. Shop early! Regular hours apply for Saturday and Sunday.

KWM 2015 Whisky Advent Calendar

Kensington Wine Market’s Whisky Advent Calendar is back! Last year’s calendar was a huge hit. This year’s is even better.  It still includes 24 x 50ml whiskies and a custom Glencarin whisky glass. But, that is not all. We’re offering an even wider range of whiskies and we are also including an extra 25th bottle. As a special treat for Christmas morning, there will be a 100ml Scotch Malt Whisky Society single cask bottling. This is a rare treat indeed, and usually only available to Society members. All of this year’s whiskies are different from 2014 and we are really excited about the range. There are 23 single malts from Scotland, Ireland, India and Taiwan, as well as a boutique blend and a boutique blended malt. Whether it is for yourself or to give as a gift, we know it won’t disappoint. Don’t hesitate, it’s selling out fast! $399.99

Winter Whisky Sale at Mulberry Bank Auctions.

Next stop is Christmas so now is your chance to get hold of those Christmas presents for your loved ones, Secret Santas and yourself!

Viewing for this sale is by appointment only, so give us a call on 0141 225 8181 or e-mail: stewarts@mulberrybankauctions.com

We have some great whiskies for sale this time around, like a Macallan 1946 (Lot 3), Speymalt Macallan 1940 (Lot 189); Laphroaig 1960 (Lot 1); Loch Lomond 1966 in a copper still (Lot 61); The Kilkerran First Cask bottlings (Lot 306) and a great selection of Flora & Fauna bottlings three of which are 1^st Release (Lots 57; 118; & 259).  We also have some nice Port Ellen independent bottlings, including The Whisky Shop 10^th Anniversary 24 year old (Lot 250)and lots of interesting bottles from Bladnoch.

Mulberry Bank Auctions
26A St Vincent Crescent
Glasgow
G3 8LH

Six of the best – win an Ardbeg collection worth £1,000!

Islay distillery Ardbeg is one of the most popular distilleries on the island, thanks to its rich, peaty drams. It’s also gained acclaim for its cask-maturation experiments, which are always popular and have gained cult status among Ardbeg fans.

These six limited-edition Ardbegs could be yours!

This month, we have a special prize draw for all Ardbeg fans: simply buy a 70cl bottle of Ardbeg Corryvreckan and you will be in with a chance of winning six limited-edition Ardbegs, worth more than £1,000!

The prize includes a 70cl bottle of each of the following:

• Ardbeg Alligator – aged in heavily charred barrels for extra spiciness
• Ardbeg Ardbog – matured in both bourbon and manzanilla sherry casks
• Ardbeg Auriverdes – sweeter and lighter than some Ardbegs, this was released in time for the 2014 World Cup
• Ardbeg Galileo – aged in ex-Marsala casks for sweet, tropical-fruit flavours
• Ardbeg Kildalton – matured in bourbon and sherry casks, this is smoky, creamy and spicy
• Ardbeg Perpetuum – a special bottling for the 2015 Islay Festival

Ardbeg Corryvreckan is named after the whirlpool found to the north of Islay. It boasts big, swirling peppery smoke and rich, peaty fruit – a belter of a dram! It has won a clutch of awards, including Best No Age Statement Scotch in Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible, and is a dram that all Ardbeg fans should try.

ARDBEG CORRYVRECKAN, 57.1% ABV

Tasting Notes by Billy Abbott

Nose: Lime and brine, vanilla, fresh sea air, flowers, sweet peat, gentle fruitiness, and sweet and sticky malt loaf.

Palate: Malty and sweet, with smoked cheese and ham, cracked black pepper, real maraschino cherries, spiced apples, cinder toffee, tobacco, coffee and coal stoves.

Finish: Barrel char smokiness, with coffee and fruity dark chocolate.

This is a terrific prize for all Ardbeg lovers, and you have until 10 January 2016 to enter – good luck!