October 2024 Auction // 25.10 – 04.11.2024

Now Live: October Auction

A warm welcome to our October auction. Featuring over 7000 rare whiskies and fine spirits, this is a unique opportunity to bid on some of the world’s most sought-after bottles. We have legendary vintages from pioneering independent bottlers, grandeur aplenty from established distilleries and unique and experimental drams from the hottest names in the whisky industry right now. Bid today

Springbank Millennium Malts

Karuizawa 1965 Bottles #1:

1965 Japonisme Edition / LMDW 60th Anniversary

1965 Single Sherry Cask 50 Year Old #2372 / LMDW

1965 Single Bourbon Cask 50 Year Old #8636 / LMDW

Port Ellen Special Releases #1 – #17

Incredible Bowmore

James MacArthur Caol Ila & Port Ellen

International Beverage unveils Old Pulteney single malt whisky’s new partnership with Nuno Mendes

 Renowned chef’s culinary creations celebrate the unique flavour of ‘Old Pulteney Port’

Scotch whisky brand Old Pulteney has teamed up with celebrated Michelin Star chef Nuno Mendes, to create a series of exquisite recipes that showcase the latest release in Old Pulteney’s limited-edition Coastal Series, Old Pulteney Port.

Combining the rich maritime history of the brand’s home in Wick, with his own Portuguese heritage, Nuno Mendes has drawn inspiration from both locations to create a series of dishes that celebrate the whisky’s distinctive flavours.

“I’ve crafted these recipes to highlight the beautiful connection between Portuguese and Scottish cuisines, using Old Pulteney Port to enhance the natural flavours of the sea,” Mendes says. “The flavours I’ve explored are a celebration of our shared coastal heritage, and come to life through delicious, memorable dishes.”

Old Pulteney’s Distillery Manager, Malcom Waring, comments: “Nuno’s passion and creativity are the perfect complement to the unique character of our whisky. Like Nuno, we know how evocative and influential the sea can be in unlocking our senses, so we’re excited to see how whisky lovers and food enthusiasts embrace this special collaboration.”

Discover the recipes

• Slow Baked Scallops with a Smoky Broth: Native Scottish scallops are delicately baked and paired with a broth infused with Old Pulteney Port, combining coastal character with notes of citrus and spice.

• Arroz de Marisco with Lobster, Crab, and Old Pulteney Port: A classic Portuguese seafood rice dish, enhanced with the Old Pulteney Port’s subtle warmth and depth, creating a perfect marriage of flavours.

• Soaked Portuguese Rice Cake with Old Pulteney and Caramel Custard Ice Cream: A unique twist on a traditional dessert, featuring a whisky-soaked rice cake and rich caramel custard ice cream that draws on the whisky’s smoky and spicy notes.

Speaking of the partnership, Samantha Peter, Global Digital, PR and Communication Manager for International Beverage says: “Ahead of the busy festive period, this is the perfect partnership to support our flagship brand and celebrate Old Pulteney’s world-renowned quality and maritime roots. We’re thrilled to be working with a chef of Nuno’s calibre and to see the creativity, flavour and flair he brings to our much-loved single malt whisky”.

For the full recipes, and to explore the culinary connection between Portugal and Scotland, visit HERE

Old Pulteney Port is available to purchase via Old Pulteney’s official website, The Whisky Exchange, and specialist whisky retailers for £76 RRP.

Old Pulteney Port: Tasting Notes

Nose: Rich sultana sweetness with vanilla and buttery notes, candied orange peel and hints of

gingerbread. Undertones of cherries, marzipan and dark chocolate add depth and balance.

Palate: Sweet and spicy with notes of baked apples, caramelised sugar and cinnamon swirl pastries. Opens up further with vanilla custard, a touch of rose water and The Maritime Malt’s signature minerality.

Finish: The taste continues into delicate and fruity notes, warming spices and plum jam sweetness.

Colour: Rose gold with a peach highlight.

ABV: 46%

International Beverage

International Beverage is the international arm of Thai Beverage Public Company Limited.  It is one of the industry’s most dynamic global drinks businesses and specialises in developing distinctive, premium brands for global markets, with a portfolio that is led by a range of high-quality Scotch whiskies and some of the fastest growing premium spirits. These brands are enjoyed by consumers around the world and include Old Pulteney single malt Scotch whisky, Hankey Bannister blended Scotch whisky, Caorunn Gin, Phraya Rum, Mekhong Thai spirits, Cardrona spirits and liqueurs and Larsen Cognac spirits. www.interbevgroup.com

Old Pulteney

Old Pulteney is the only brand whose story, distillery, and whisky are shaped by the sea itself. The unique combination of brisk sea air and meticulous cask selection makes its flavour unlike other single malt Scotch whiskies. The award-winning core collection includes Harbour, 12 Years Old, Huddart, 15 Years Old and 18 Years Old.

As the man behind the town’s 19th Century fishing boom, Sir William Pulteney put northerly Scottish coastal town Wick on the map, but today the Pulteney name is better known for its unique single malt whisky. Distilled and matured by the sea, the award-winning whisky in Old Pulteney’s casks is cocooned by salty air swept ashore on Arctic winds. Since 1826, Pulteney Distillery has navigated changeable seas and conditions, including 25 years of prohibition. Old Pulteney is inseparable from the spirit of the harbour town it calls home which is why it will always be The Maritime Malt.

In 2022, Old Pulteney launched its brand-new collection of limited-edition whiskies: The Coastal Series. The Series is made up of four expressions that have been further matured in seaside casks from coastal locations around the world. Old Pulteney Pineau des Charentes and Old Pulteney Port are the first two releases in the collection.

Recent awards for Old Pulteney’s core range include the highly-coveted Platinum award for Old Pulteney 12 Years Old, Double Gold for Old Pulteney Huddart and 15 Years Old, and Gold for Old Pulteney 18 Years Old at the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Old Pulteney 18 Years Old was also deemed Category Winner of the Highland Single Malt (13 to 20 Years) category at the World Whiskies Awards 2024 with Old Pulteney 15 Years Old securing Gold.

Nuno Mendes

Born in the Portuguese capital, Lisbon, Nuno Mendes’ passion for travel and food began early, inspired by his father and grandmother. His culinary journey took him to the California Culinary Academy and later Japan, where he further sharpened his craft.

In 2006, Nuno made waves in London’s food scene with Bacchus in Hoxton, quickly gaining a reputation for his innovative approach. Following this were projects such as The Loft Project and Taberna do Mercado, which solidified his status as a boundary-pusher, while his Michelin-starred restaurants, Viajante and Mãos, received widespread acclaim.

In 2014, Nuno took the helm at Chiltern Firehouse as executive chef, leading it to success and publishing Chiltern Firehouse: The Cookbook (2016). His second cookbook, Lisboeta (2017), set the stage for his latest venture: Lisboeta on Charlotte Street, Soho – a celebration of Portuguese cuisine launched in 2022 in partnership with MJMK.

Johnnie Walker hits 100 in Thailand

The fascination with Johnnie Walker is not just its popularity in so many countries across the world, but the longevity of that popularity. This year Johnnie Walker celebrates 100 years of sales in Thailand – a momentous feat. So, what is it about this icon that still manages to excite Thai drinkers a century after it first reached its shores.

Our September Auction ENDS TOMORROW!

Place your bids until 7pm (BST) Sunday 27th October 2024.

www.whiskyhammer.com

Every month, we present an incredible selection of whiskies and other fine spirits to our members right across the globe. You will find everything here from limited edition releases and vintage bottles to whole casks of rare whisky. There is certainly something for everyone – whether you are looking to collect, invest or enjoy!

Singleton Of Dufftown – 53 Year Old (1964) Paragon Of Time

Hibiki – 40 Year Old

Karuizawa – 50 Year Old (1965) Single Casks (LMDW Exclusive)

Bowmore – 50 Year Old (1964) Black Bowmore The Last Cask

Balvenie – 50 Year Old (1963) Single Cask #4570 + #4567

Selling whisky? Why not arrange the pick-up of your bottles using our global courier service? If you’re based in Scotland, you might want to arrange the personal collection of your bottles. Wherever you’re based in the world, we will make getting your bottles into our monthly auction as simple as possible. Get in touch with the Whisky Hammer team now by dropping them a message at sales@whiskyhammer.com.

16 Year Old American Oak

From its bright, tropical beginnings to its rich and textured finish, each subtle shift in flavour was carefully noted, as our tasting panel watched closely over 16 years to ensure this cask was given exactly the time it needed.

The evolution of 16 Year Old Single Cask TD0100 speaks not only to the unique character of the whisky itself but also to the dedication that defines our distillery. Each cask carries with it the story of time, care, and an unyielding pursuit of perfection, resulting in a whisky bottled at its peak – just as it was meant to be.

The ballot will open on Monday, October 28 at 10AM AEST.

16 Year Old American Oak Second-Fill
Old & Rare TD0100

“This whisky is an absolutely stunning expression of balance and complexity. Bold yet gentle, it captures the essence of its American Oak maturation with a remarkable structure. The harmonious integration of sweet, nutty, and citrus elements creates a captivating and unforgettable experience.”

– Sullivans Cove Sensory Team

Matured for 16 years in a single 300L American oak second-fill cask, yielding just 406 bottles at 47% ABV.

Inspired by our latest whisky release, I left Harris for the home of sherry wine to wander around the towns and cities of Andalusia in south-west Spain.

It’s an incredible part of the world and the contrasts and comparisons with our island came thick and fast.

Steeped in history, the influences of religion run deep and their culture has been shaped by generations of conquests and conflict. Even the Vikings who left their mark on the village names of Harris have had a hand in Andalusian affairs…

The locals’ love of good food and drink, moreso when shared with friends and family, shone through, as did an approach to life lived at a more appreciative pace.

And then there was the music and dance, with the spirit of Flamenco flowing through their veins and a deep love of unaccompanied song and cèilidh-style celebrations…

While the jury’s still out on whether the Hebridean midge is worse than the Spanish mosquito, the weather is where we really differ however.

The sun-baked and summer-bleached colours of their landscapes could not be more different to our own, though both shared the same stark beauty.

Wherever you find yourself this weekend, seek out a bottle of The Hearach First Fill Oloroso Cask Matured whisky and open to enjoy a taste of this wonderful corner of the globe, and its sherry region in particular.

We hope the rich, bold, and aromatic flavours will connect you not just to our home in Harris but to the men and women, from Jerez to Huelva, who helped us make it.

Slàinte / Salud!

Le gach deagh dhùrachd,

Mike Donald, Chief Storyteller

In the far south-western corner of Spain lies the ancient region of Andalusia. Here among hot and dusty hills of Huelva, the men and women of sherry-makers José y Miguel Martín ‘cooper’ casks with age-old craft and care before they are filled by their wineries in Jerez.

We first visited this historic part of world back in 2015 to begin our relationship with this highly respected family business. The ‘first fill’ Oloroso casks they select for us are now used to 100% mature our second whisky expression here in Harris bringing rich, bold, and aromatic flavours to our spirit.

Expect aromas of cinnamon, and cloves, alongside notes of charred oranges, white chocolate, green herbs, and hints of wood smoke. It’s an utterly delicious dram designed for drinking this coming season.

Order your bottle and open to discover more…

ORDER THE HEARACH OLOROSO

Whisky truly comes into its own in at this time of year as the nights draw in and spirits soar. The four bottlings in our new Winter Series are all about toasting the spirit of the ceilidh, a season of tale-telling, song-singing, and poetry. Dancing optional!

We’re releasing a limited number of Winter Series sets today, and you’ll also be able to purchase each bottle individually as we head through the season.

Don’t miss your chance to share the spirit of the season!

SHOP THE SET

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

Mark’s Whisky Ramblings 547: Caol Ila 2012 for Whivie’s 15^th Anniversary

On October 28, 2009, Mark’s website and blog were born. That’s 15 years ago, and it deserves a celebration! Those who know Mark a bit might guess that he long hesitated between an Auchentoshan and a Caol Ila, but when this cask crossed his path about half a year ago, the die was cast. Very pale, clean, and maritime, it captivated him from the very first sip. Limited to 100 bottles. Here’s to the next 15 years!

Douglas Laing unveils Double Barrel India & Scotland

Douglas Laing is incredibly excited to announce their first-ever combination of Indian and Scottish Single Malt under the Double Barrel brand—a perfect marriage of expertly selected Single Malts from two very different continents, creating a unique Blended Malt Whisky with a flavour profile never seen before.

This exclusive offering has been bottled at 50% ABV, with no more than 2,000 bottles available globally, highlighting the premium, high-quality product that Douglas Laing strives to create with every release. This limited edition provides layers of extraordinary flavour by marrying tradition with innovation.

Double Barrel India & Scotland features a hand-drawn illustration presenting both countries’ national animals—a testament to the contrast created in this special bottle—depicting one half as a Royal Bengal Tiger, the national animal of India, and the other as a Unicorn, the national animal of Scotland. The Bengal Tiger represents heritage and culture, while the Unicorn symbolises strength and purity.

This release offers customers a rare, exciting, and truly unmatched Blended Malt Whisky. Expect to experience notes of citrus, spice, and barley that intertwine with deep, pronounced peat smoke—a truly special product that Douglas Laing are thrilled to release.

Key Details:

• Presented as bottle only with hand-drawn illustration
• 50% ABV
• No colouring or chill-filtration

Commenting on this unique bottling, Chloe Wood, Double Barrel Brand Manager, said:

“The Double Barrel brand has offered several unique bottlings to date, and Double Barrel India & Scotland only adds further quality to the range. This release, which combines four single casks—two from India and two from Scotland—creates a symphony of flavours, a tale of two distinct terroirs, and a dram to be savoured.”

Double Barrel India & Scotland will be available from specialist Whisky retailers globally, plus online retailers from October 2024. It carries a suggested retail price of £75.00/€89.00.

Double Barrel

Double Barrel is designed to pique the interest of Whisky enthusiasts searching for something truly unique.

The creation of Double Barrel is a manifestation of our commitment to captivating the discerning palates of Whisky enthusiasts in search of an unparalleled and genuinely unique experience. While the term “Blend” is applied out of necessity, it scarcely encapsulates the depth and complexity that define these remarkable creations.

This award-winning dram stands as a testament to the artistry of whisky-making, offering a rich tapestry of flavours that captivate the senses and elevate the Whisky-drinking experience to new heights.

J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery Welcomes Fall with New Whiskey Offerings

Fall Spiced “Bourbon 31” and Custom Halloween Bottles Promise No Tricks, Just Treats

FRANKFORT, KY (Sept, 2024) – J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery is debuting scary-good whiskies this fall, with its first fall spiced Bourbon 31 Blended Bourbon and the ability to customize your own whiskey for your Halloween festivities through its J. Mattingly 1845 craft your bottle program. 

Bourbon 31 Blended Bourbon is a play on the brand’s Bourbon 30 Bourbon brand and this limited-edition release was created for the Halloween season.  Bourbon 31 is a blend of three whiskies which have all undergone J. Mattingly 1845’s Double Staving™ process and the blend consists of 51 percent Bourbon, 29 percent Light Whiskey and 20 percent Rye Whiskey.  Double Staving is a proprietary process used by J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery that gives the whiskey inside the barrels additional surface exposure to charred barrel staves to impart more flavor and color.  The Double Staved Classic Bourbon used in this blend has just scored a 96 from famed Whiskey Bible author Jim Murray. 

The Bourbon 31 Blended Bourbon was created by J. Mattingly 1845’s team of expert blenders to reflect the flavors typically associated with fall.  “When we blended these three whiskies, we were looking for a flavor profile that reflects flavors typically associated with fall, such as pumpkin and cinnamon while matching the light-hearted fun we’re having by changing the brand name from Bourbon 30 to Bourbon 31 to celebrate the Halloween season,” said Harry Richart, president, J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery. 

Tasting notes for this bourbon describe it as having a nose of nutmeg, cinnamon, vanilla and walnut, with the flavors of brown sugar, cinnamon, and fall baking spices on the palate. On the finish, pumpkin bread, baker’s chocolate and seasoned oak are prevalent. 

Bourbon 31 is available online and at the J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery in Frankfort, KY.  Suggested retail pricing is $60 for a 750 mL and it is 98 proof. 

J. Mattingly 1845 Custom Whiskey Program is the “Choose Your Own Adventure” of the whiskey world by allowing the buyer to choose between double staved™ bourbon, light whiskey or rye whiskey recipes, select their bottle shape, customize their own label, and even choose their own wax color from every color of the rainbow! This program is available online and in person at the Distillery and can result in some frighteningly fun labels and Halloween-themed wax colors. 

Pricing for the custom bottles start at $120 for a 750 mL bottle and shipping is available to 46 states. 

About J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery 

The Mattingly family has been synonymous with distilling in Kentucky for more than two centuries, having a hand in the development of at least nine separate distilleries in the Commonwealth.

It all started in 1845, with John Graves Mattingly’s first distillery in Marion County, Kentucky, Registered Distillery #2. 

In 2010 Jeff Mattingly took up the family mantle and started his own craft bourbon business.  Today, Jeff’s son Cameron has joined the team as Vice President of Production, continuing the legacy into the latest generation for J. Mattingly Distillery 1845 in Frankfort, Kentucky. Together father and son offer their proprietary double staving process as well as a custom bourbon blending experience unparalleled in the spirits industry, available on-site in Frankfort or online at https://jmattingly1845.com/build-a-bottle/

For more information about J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery visit www.JMattingly1845.com.