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!

This week Joe Ellis reviews The Macallan Gold.

https://youtu.be/k8lMK7XH9XU

We’ve moved to 855 Harrison (between 4th and 5th in SoMa)

• Triple the size
• Tons of free parking on site
• More wines, spirits, and craft beers

Come by and check out our new shop a few blocks north of our previous venue. We could not be more excited about the location, access and parking, and a vast amount of additional space that was badly needed. Whether shopping on the floor or picking up your will calls we think you’ll like this new spot as much we do.

Over the next several weeks we’re continuing to add the finishing touches, set up the tasting bar, install additional signage inside and out, and bring over some additional wines we have coming in. Additionally, we have hundreds of temperature controlled storage lockers on site that are wrapping up construction. Those will be available soon – stay tuned for an upcoming announcement and rental rates.

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

“Best wine Web site in the US” – Wall Street Journal “Great for rare and hard-to-find wines.” – Time “The cellar to search first.” – Smart Money “Best Wine Web Site” – Publishers of The Wine Spectator

They also sell quite a bit of WHISKY ~ W.I.

www.ralfy.com heads a few miles south of Dublin to meet Saint Kevin with Whisky Review 560 – Glendalough Double Barrel whiskey @ 42%vol:

Bunnahabhain 22 Year Old 1991 Old & Rare

Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky

$272.26

Bunnahabhain 22 Year Old 1991 vintage Islay single malt Scotch whiskey. Single cask hogshead #10853 bottled September 2014 by Hunter Laing & Co. for the Old & Rare Platimum Selection. 239 bottles.

This light golden coloured whisky has a mellow sweet nose of sultanas, raisins, bakewell tarts and vanilla toffee with just a trace of peat. It is rich and creamy smooth on the palate, sweet initially with honeycomb then bitter almonds and a whiff of peat smoke. The finish is long and dry with an oaky, smoky aftertaste.

Bunnahabhain Distillery was established in 1881 on the north eastern tip of the Isle of Islay by the shore of Bunnahabhain Bay and overlooking the Sound of Islay. All the building materials were transported by puffer and unloaded at the distillery pier. Now tucked away at the end of the single track ‘main’ road with spectacular scenery all the way. Bunnahabhain Distillery is equipped with four huge pear shaped stills and produces Scottish malt whisky which is released in blends and single malts. Visitors are welcomed at the distillery visitor centre and distillery cottages are available for holiday lets. A participant in Feis Ile, the annual Islay Festival of Malt and Music.