Olympic gold medal drams from Japan!

If you’ve been catching up on all the Olympic action from Tokyo then you might be wondering what the perfect accompanying dram might be… well it has to be Japanese of course! We wanted to showcase the fantastic selection we stock from the Land of the Rising Sun.

Shop Japanese whisky →

Hi everybody!

The latest covid-19 update is that the Dutch government has banned festivals until 1^st of September. The vaccination program is well on schedule here in the Netherlands. We remain hopeful that by the end of summer enough people have been fully vaccinated and restrictions will be lifted, and we can enjoy a safe and relaxed Maltstock. We will of course keep you updated!

In the meantime we’re busy with getting everything ready. It is with great pleasure we can announce two very relaxed names to our impressive list of tastings.

Annette, Bob, Klaas, Stan, Teun

Waterford

With the beautiful blue bottles on the scene and the very interesting liquid inside of them, Waterford is certainly making a name for themselves amongst whisky enthusiasts. We really enjoyed the one we had in the online Maltstock tasting we did last year. It makes us very relaxed that Ian O’Brian will be coming to Maltstock again! Ian showed us last time what a relaxed whisky geek he is. A great opportunity to check out the progress s of Waterford whisky and enjoy Ian’s passion.

WhiskyBase

What an amazing job the WhiskyBase team has over the years creating the very relaxed database. They of course have a fantastic shop in Rotterdam. And do excellent bottlings under their Archives label. But most importantly, they are very nice and relaxed whisky enthusiasts! So obviously we’re very happy they will host a couple of the “Drinks with…” sessions at Maltstock this year.

Maltstock tickets

If you’re looking for a relaxed weekend and meeting old and new friends:

if you haven’t got a ticket yet then it’s time to get relaxed! We still have a few tickets available in our shop: https://www.maltstock.com/shop

Please do check out the information regarding Covid-19. By following these regulations we can have a safe and very relaxed Maltstock!

Stay healthy everyone, stay relaxed and we hope to see you in September!

PERSONALISE YOUR BOTTLE

Create a personlised label or bespoke engraved decanter with your choice of The English Original or Smokey Whisky.

The English – Original

70cl. 43%vol£42.50

from
£52.50

BUY NOW

BALVENIE 25 YEAR OLD RARE MARRIAGES DESCRIPTION

Mark’s Whisky Ramblings 398: Oban 2005 Distillers Edition

Mark Dermul, Belgian whisky blogger, tries a malt from Oban, which is one of Scotland’s oldest distilleries, founded in 1794, but also one of the smallest with an output of a mere 650,000 litres per year. This has everything to do with the location of course, which makes that there is no room for expansion. This also means that there is a very limited core range: the classic 14 years old, the NAS expression Little Bay that was launched in 2015 and this Distillers Edition. For Oban it means that the second maturation took place on Montilla Fino sherry casks. This one is distilled in 2005 and bottled in 2019.

https://youtu.be/QPevOlOJAOo

THERE’S NO TASTE LIKE HOME: THE GLENLIVET OPENS THE DOORS TO ITS NEW VISITOR EXPERIENCE

GLEN GARIOCH DISTILLERY

Glen Garioch 2011 Samaroli (2021)

Cask #1537

Shop Glen Garioch 2009 »

£152.74

Glen Garioch 2011 vintage Highland single malt Scotch whisky. Single cask #1537 bottled 2021 by Samaroli. 328 bottles. Bottled 2021 this is a spicy single cask of the Highland distillery. 328 bottles.

Our delayed satisfaction begins to pay off, for its aromas begin to unfold. The wood of the handmade bar, the ceilings impregnated with tobacco smoke emerge in full force. But, as we peek behind the curtain, the delicate passageway to mentholated and almost-metallic tones support the structure of this malt.

In the mouth, the spirit unfolds, for we are behind the curtain now, and away from the more-raucous parlor entrance. Notes of cumin, cinnamon and cardamom begin to almost cuddle us with their enticing offerings. Then opens the juicy heart of cedar and sandal-wood, but as they emerge, they close with more precious woody notes that remind us of our earlier entrance.

Various dates are given for the establishment of Glen Garrioch Distillery but it is likely to have been late on in 1785 making it one of the oldest working distilleries in Scotland. This distillery resides in Oldmeldrum in the Highland whisky region and currently operates with two stills. Its traditional floor maltings were in use up until 1993 thus its whisky produced up until that time was slightly smoky. The core distillery range includes the Glen Garioch 12 Year Old with independent bottles offer an interesting selection including Cadenhead’s and the Old Malt Cask.

A Pair of Titanic K&L Exclusive New Cask Releases
Thrilling discoveries From LAWS and Balcones that will take your collection to new heights

Our spirits buyers are on a never-ending marathon of tasting and sampling, all done to bring you the absolute best and most unique offerings on the market. So, when they single out certain new arrivals for special attention, you know there’s a good reason (many good reasons, actually). The two impeccable whiskies on offer today stand out in our inventory for their highly distinctive, cask-strength profiles as well as their unconventional, single-grain mashbills. Colorado’s LAWS Whisky House has given us a number of thrilling new discoveries recently, and at the top of the list is the San Luis Valley Rye, which David Othenin-Girard calls “one of the very best craft ryes we’ve tried so far.” Meanwhile, we all know that everything is bigger in Texas, so it’s no surprise that the Lone Star state’s pioneering distillery has brought us one of our biggest, boldest barrels ever. Balcones’ Texas Single Malt Cask Strength Barrel is a massive entry that, according to Andrew Whiteley, is “unlike any Balcones I’ve ever tasted…superlative in every way.” By going in on either or both of these selections, you are adding an unparalleled and singular craft whisky to your collection that’s unlike any other on the market.

LAWS Whisky House is quickly becoming one of the country’s most prominent new craft distillers. Not only have they been able to create an exciting array of excellent whiskies, but they’ve done so following an uncommon motto in our industry: “There are no shortcuts.” We respect that kind of commitment to quality, and the proof is in the pudding. While their entire line of whiskies offers something special, it is the San Luis Valley Rye that offers the most distinctive and distinguished experience. The powerful flavors of the high-protein heirloom varietal paired with the dry maturation regimen that their Denver warehouses offer creates a unique and truly delicious flavor profile unparalleled by any other craft or legacy distiller. So, when we were offered this OLDER cask strength version of one of our favorite craft ryes, we absolutely had to have it. This awesome barrel was distilled on December 28th, 2015 and bottled just under 5.5 years old on April 30th, 2021. Bottled at cask strength of 58.9% ABV without chill filtration.

LAWS Whisky House “Barrel Select” K&L Exclusive Cask Strength Single Barrel #508 San Luis Valley Straight Rye Whiskey (750ml) ($74.99)

David Othenin-Girard | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: July 29, 2021

This delicious single barrel of San Luis Valley Rye is one of the very best craft ryes we’ve tried so far. There’s a huge influx of craft distillers offering rye of various quality and character, but LAWS has found a formula that’s as delicious as it is unique. Using the heirloom varietal of rye grown by farmers in south-central Colorado, their Straight Rye is derived from an equal blend of malted and unmalted rye. This semi-wild varietal now being cultivated exclusively to produce this particular whisky offers character unlike the industrial ryes grown in Canada and Germany for the rest of the industry. Expect a stupendous, complex mixture of rich salted caramel, mints, and licorice bark on the nose. On the palate, a vibrant mixture of sweet earthy oak, bold cacao, tangy green herbs, and burnt Seville orange peel. It’s truly incredible what these guys have managed to achieve in such a short time, and we couldn’t be prouder to be partnered with them.

Balcones K&L Exclusive Cask Strength Single Barrel #16584 Texas Single Malt Whisky (750ml) ($79.99)

Clocking in at a monstrous 130.8 proof, this K&L Exclusive barrel from Balcones is also among their oldest bottlings. Aged for 4 long Texas years in new European oak, it packs an extraordinary amount of flavor. The huge and rapid temperature swings common to Waco, TX have penetrated that new oak in a way that feels a lot like Kentucky bourbon, but it is the 100% Scottish Golden Promise single malt barley distilled on Balcones’ Scottish Forsyth stills that make this barrel a truly unique specimen.

Andrew Whiteley | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: July 29, 2021

There was no doubt in my mind when selecting this barrel. It was unlike any Balcones I’d ever tastedjust as good as the best releases I’ve had, but superlative in every way. It’s over the top in flavor and proof. Coming in at just over 65% ABV, it’s massive. The aroma practically carries across the room when you pour a glass. It’s bursting with figs, peaches, vanilla, caramel, raisins, almonds/marzipan, walnuts, and brown sugar. Each nosing finds something new. Particularly interesting is the wild herbal sauvage thing going on as it opens that complements the robust fruit, just as it would in a perfectly balanced bottle from the Rhône. The palate is equally huge. Tame it with water and it’s exceptionally easy to enjoy. The peaches move from fresh slices to peach rings, candied and sweet. The herbal piece moves into heirloom celery, the kind you can only grow in your own garden, not the watery stringy stalks you find in the grocery store. The spice of the new European oak stands tall in the lengthy and unrelenting finish. I’ve always liked what Balcones has done, but I’ve found a completely new appreciation for them in this singular cask.

Jeffrey Jones | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: July 29, 2021

This is a big and powerful whiskey. The nose is very pronounced with sweet top notes and caramel aromas. In the mouth, it is full-bodied and juicy, with wonderfully sweet spice flavors that do not hide behind other aspects of this whiskey. A little water opens it up, but both the nose and mouth are still big and concentrated, still with seductive spice notes. Direct and delicious, this is is not a shy wallflower.

Andrew Tobin | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: July 29, 2021

For those of you who remember our last bottling of Balcones, you’ll be just as excited as I am! Our friends in Texas have delivered another powerhouse bottle to us, and don’t let the four-year age statement fool you—that much time in Texas heat gave this whisky about as much barrel influence as you could want! The first thing that jumps out to me is the honey-glazed peanut note, baking spice, and fresh leather. The nose is huge, and every whiff brings in a whole new world. The palate is this wild umami flavor mixed with dark caramel, popcorn, peach ring, cranberry, and gobs of baking spices! They’ve done it again, to absolutely no one’s surprise. This should be on every whiskey fan’s radar!

ACCESS THE EXTRAORDINARY

Each cask in the Wind & Wave collection has been selected on its extraordinary merit and unique Islay character. These profound small batch releases represent the ultimate experience that Islay Whisky has to offer.

Too often such rare whiskies become objects of unobtainable luxury, pricing out the true Whisky lover at the expense of super premium packaging that seeks to exist beyond its role as protector of a glass bottle.

The Character of Islay Whisky Company strives to always bring the drinker back to the dram in their hand.

Laphroaig – Wind & Wave Single Cask #11680

2005 Vintage | 15 Year Old | 57.8% ABV | 70cl

This pungent Islay Single Malt Whisky offers aromas of smoke soaked honeycomb, vanilla sponge, and tarry rope. Oily, full bodied and intense on the palate. Flavours of sweet fruits and savoury nuts are engulfed by a cloud of peat smoke.

£264.95

Bunnahabhain – Wind & Wave Single Cask #11822

2001 Vintage | 19 Year Old | 56.5% ABV | 70cl

A rich, sweet, and fruity single malt that is packed with aromas and flavours of fruitcake, sweet toffee, Demerara sugar, and dark chocolate, all coated in a dusting of sweet spices. The finish is long, sweet and indulgent.

£264.95

Bunnahabhain – Wind & Wave Single Cask #10898

2008 Vintage | 10 Year Old | 50.1% ABV | 70cl

This superb Bunnahabhain offers a wonderful combination of sweet and savoury aromas and flavours. The nose is bold and malty with notes of porridge oats, trail mix, and spiced pumpkin pie. The palate is fabulously outdoorsy, and Autumnal with sweet, nutty flavours and salty pretzel.

£99.95

Bowmore – Wind & Wave Single Cask #11717

2002 Vintage | 18 Year Old | 52.8% ABV | 70cl

This cask strength bottling of Bowmore is gently smoky with aromas of ripe fruit and sweet custard. The palate has touches of sweetness, complimented by citrus freshness, blackcurrant, forest pine, and sea salt. The smoke builds on the finish.

£264.95

We wanted you to be among the first to know that we are preparing to re-start live events! Hurrah!

After what feels like an eternity in purgatory, we are so looking forward to getting out again and seeing many of you!

The first of our large events is our hugely popular Liverpool Whisky Festival, to be held once again at the Metropolitan Cathedral Crypts, on Saturday 18th September.

Read on…

We cannot express how excited we are. We really can’t, and we hope that you will join us!

Obviously we are all wary, and all a bit socially disconnected by now, but, come on, we can do it!

Those of you who bought tickets for the original 2020 event will automatically have their tickets carried over to this event, for the same session. We only have a limited amount of tickets we can sell, due to fact so many bought tickets in 2019 for the 2020 event.

So, we WILL have lots of exhibitors, equally desperate to see you, as you are to see them. There WILL be lots of new whiskies to try during the 4 hour sessions. There WILL be lots of friends, old and new, to finally share drams with.

But there WILL also be precautions in place.

Everyone attending will need to have a vaccine ‘passport’ or proof of a lateral flow test done on the day of the event.

This is not only to ensure your safety, but also that of our exhibitors and team, plus it is a requirement of the venue itself, in order to protect their staff too.

Mask-wearing will not be mandatory, but you may well see exhibitors and team members wearing them. If you feel more comfortable wearing one, please do.

There will be plenty of hand sanitiser available to everyone throughout the venue, and we would encourage you to use it.

The capacity of the event has been reduced to roughly half. A maximum of 300 people per session has been put into place.

Hopefully all of this, plus a slightly different venue exit (through the back entrance), will help to ensure everyone’s safety and comfort.

Obviously we have to caveat that, in the event of the current government rules surrounding the pandemic changing, we may have to alter or cancel the event. However, we are hopeful that this won’t happen this time!

So, on to the tickets themselves. Due to the venue capacity being halved and devastating impact of the pandemic on our business, we cannot afford to run any ‘early-bird’ promotions, and we hope you understand this. However, we have kept the price to the previous full price of £50 per ticket, which we hope you’ll agree is still very reasonable for what you get;

– Entry to one session of the event
– A Glencairn Whisky Tasting Glass
– Access to dozens of whiskies from all over the world, with nothing more to pay
– Chat with whisky industry folk about their product at their stands

There will be TWO sessions;

12pm – 4pm
5pm – 9pm

You can choose which session you’d like to attend.

Once again we are directing to you straight to Eventbrite for tickets, due to our current website not behaving, and our new one not being quite ready.

BUY NOW – Liverpool Festival 2021 Tickets

If you already have a ticket carried over and need to change sessions or can’t make it for any reason, please email info@thewhiskylounge.com with as much detail as possible.

We are planning on further live event announcements, so please do watch this space and our Facebook Page.

Please bear in mind that there is currently one person working one day a week in the business, so it WILL take a little while (two weeks plus) to get back to you.

If you’re free at all tomorrow, Saturday 31st July, Eddie will be hosting a very special all-day event at the Spirit of Yorkshire distillery, for….Yorkshire Day!

Featuring lots of special guests, virtual tours and sessions, it should be fun. You can find out more about it, and how to tune in on Spirit of Yorkshire’s website and Facebook Page.

Hope to see some of you online!

That’s it for now!

Thanks for listening and for your ongoing patience and understanding.

Have a great weekend!

Best Wishes,
Eddie
The Whisky Lounge