The Whisky Shop Uncorked – Blended Whisky

The Whisky Shop Uncorked Journey Continues!.

The best selling Blended Whisky of 2025 was the Loch Fyne Blend… Which of the fantastic blends that we stock should you keep an ear to the ground for in 2026? We’ve read the tarots, star gazed, and most importantly consulted our wealth of industry experts to find the answers, and here they are!

Explore & Enjoy!

EXPLORE NOW

Free Next Day Delivery for 12 Months For just £14.95 you can enjoy free next day delivery on all your orders for a whole year! Geographic restrictions apply, see full T&Cs. Find out more ❯

Whisky Festival season has begun…

The 20th annual Victoria Whisky Festival was a great success. We kicked things off Friday with a Shelter Point Whisky Club evening at Artemis Whisky Bar, sharing rare drams and welcoming Trenny & C to check in on their Ultima barrel pick.

Saturday featured our Shelter Point Masterclass, where Chris Read poured core releases alongside a few upcoming specialties, followed by the always-lively Grand Tasting. Guests sampled the range and got a first look at the Evans Family Reserve Coruja Cask Finish, which received enthusiastic praise.

The following weekend wrapped with two sold-out nights at Whisky Global in Vancouver, where Alberto and Kelsey enjoyed pouring and chatting with whisky fans. We will be attending more whisky festivals on Vancouver Island over the next few months. If you’re attending any of the below events we look forward to seeing you there!

Comox Valley Whisky Festival – February 6th

Nanaimo Whisky Festival – February 7th

Vancouver Island Whisky Festival – February 28th

Cowichan Valley WhiskyFest – March 7th

ralfy review 1113 Extras – ‘Developing’ our malt-experiences.

THE EXPERIENCE

Tomatin unveils Year of the Horse single cask whisky to celebrate Lunar New Year

Award-winning Highland distiller Tomatin has released a highly limited new single cask whisky to mark the 2026 Lunar New Year, the Year of the Horse – a symbol of strength, vitality and adventure in the Chinese Zodiac.

The Tomatin Year of the Horse 2026 release is a 2011 single cask bottling, matured in a first fill Pedro Ximénez (PX) sherry butt. The cask used, known as a ‘bota gorda’, is larger than a standard sherry butt and has been sourced directly from a bodega in Jerez in southern Spain. Its use in a sherry solera has added depth and intense PX flavours to the whisky, while its size has allowed the more subtle complexities of the Tomatin spirit to shine.

Non-chill filtered and natural in colour, Tomatin Year of the Horse 2026 is presented in the distillery’s signature bottle finished with ornate artwork detailed on a red label, with this colour symbolising good fortune, positivity and energy at Lunar New Year.

Jamie Muir, distillery manager at Tomatin, said: “We don’t often release single cask whiskies to the global market, however this sweet, fruity and structured Tomatin single malt seemed the perfect way to toast the Lunar New Year.

“As well as being renowned as the home of sherry, Jerez is also famed for its horses and is the birthplace of the legendary Carthusian breed which dates back to the 15th century, the era in which Tomatin is rooted. This rich heritage makes this whisky a fitting tribute to the strength, elegance and spirit of the Year of the Horse.” 

This expression opens with a burst of orange zest and dried cranberries on the nose, before imparting sweeter notes of honeycomb and candy floss. Notes of cinnamon, tiramisu, mulled wine and jalapeno leap out, with something new to be discovered each time. On the palate there are varied flavours of candied almonds, toffee apples, sultanas, and salted liquorice, while the finish is long and round, with lingering baking spice.

The Lunar New Year is a celebration of shared traditions and community which aligns with Tomatin’s ‘To What Matters’ ethos which focuses on cherishing the moments that count and the connections and memories that last.

With a proud heritage dating back to the 15th century, Tomatin has been a home for its dedicated craftspeople since it was established in 1897. Today, more than half of the team still live on site with their families and Tomatin is also one of only a handful of Scotch whisky distilleries with its own cooperage.

Bottled at a natural strength of 56.5% ABV and retailing at £95 per 70cl bottle, Tomatin Year of the Horse 2026 is limited to only 817 individually numbered bottles and is available now from specialist retailers globally.

For more information on the Tomatin Year of the Horse 2026, visit HERE

Tomatin Year of the Horse 2026 tasting notes

Nose:  Orange zest, dried cranberries, honeycomb and candyfloss.

Palate: Candied almonds, toffee apples, sultanas and salted liquorice.

Finish: Long and round with lingering spice bake.

Tomatin is located in the Scottish Highlands, 16 miles south of Inverness, and is famous for its portfolio of refined and elegant whiskies.  The distillery has a proud heritage stretching back to the 15th century when illicit production was likely to be taking place, but it wasn’t until 1897 that the first formal distillery was established by John MacDougall as the Tomatin Spey Distillery Company.

In 2022, Tomatin was awarded ‘Scotch Whisky Producer of the Year’ and ‘Outstanding Spirits Producer of the Year’ at the International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC). Later that year, it was recognised as ‘Sustainable Distillery of the Year’ at Whisky Magazine’s Icons of Whisky 2023, in recognition of its continued contribution to sustainably at the distillery.

In 2023, Tomatin took home seven awards at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, while Cù Bòcan, took home three. Tomatin’s 36 Year Old was crowned the ultimate winner at SFWSC for malts, being named ‘Best in Show’, officially making it one of the best whiskies in the world.

Building upon this triumph, 2024 saw Tomatin’s 18 Year Old secured Double Gold for the third consecutive year at the SFWSC, elevating it to Platinum status. Meanwhile, both Tomatin’s 45 Year Old and 12 Year Old, alongside Cù Bòcan’s 15 Year Old took home Double Gold Awards, and Cù Bòcan’s 12 Year Old also secured a prestigious Gold Award.

This year, Tomatin has been awarded Gold designation for its Tomatin Sherry Collection Ximénez Edition and Silver for both its Sherry Collection Manzanilla Edition and Sherry Collection Palo Cortado Edition in the inaugural 2025 Whiskey Wash Awards.

Tomatin has a first-class wood policy and an enduring commitment to knowing the history of each cask that passes through its warehouses. It is one of only a handful of Scotch whisky distilleries to have its own cooperage on-site, with cooper Allan Bartlett being named ‘Cooper of the Year’ at the 2025 Icons of Whisky Awards.

‘To What Matters’ is the latest chapter in the brand’s evolution; it is a positive call to arms that represents the spiritual DNA of Tomatin – a belief in savouring what is truly important in life and time spent together. Tomatin is owned by the Japanese company Takara Shuzo International: www.takara-intl.co.jp/en/

Well folks, Christmas has been and gone but not to worry for our 176th auction is now live and bursting with thousands of amazing bottles all vying to be the one which helps you drive those winter blues away!  To get your watchlist moving we’ve picked out a few highlights from the plethora of goodies on offer this month.

The Macallan Cask 888 debuted in Hong Kong at the Lalique Lounge to much fanfare, befitting its status as a limited edition single cask release from one of the world’s most collectable distilleries.  Bearing the prized ‘888’ moniker, a number deemed to be highly fortuitous in Chinese culture, only 720 bottles were made, 24 of which were made available in Hong Kong at the time.

Next up is a fantastic little piece of Scottish material culture, this is the Killyloch 1972 22 Year Old Signatory.  Killyloch distillery made a lightly peated Lowland style whisky that was used exclusively in blends for an exceptionally short period of time, production began in 1965 and ended in the early 1970’s.  With only one official single malt release in 2003, if you want to try this amazing little curio then this incredibly rare indie bottling might be your best chance.

Every month there must be the obligatory ‘I want to drink this immediately’ bottle, and this month’s winner is the Longrow 1998 26 Year Old Society Bottling.  Those lads and lassies in the Society sure know how to pick ’em, this absolute corker was distilled in 1968 and spent 26 years ageing in refill Oloroso and fresh PX casks.  One of only 485 bottles produced this is a fantastic bottling, and if sweet and smoky is your favourite flavour profile then this one is most certainly for you.

We started with a sherry bomb from a Scottish heavyweight distillery so let’s finish with one too, this is the GlenDronach 1971 43 Year Old Single Cask #2920.  GlenDronach has come a long way since founder James Allardice’s marketing strategy of offering free drams to Edinburgh’s “ladies of night”, and they now produce some of the finest sherried whisky in Scotland.  This beauty has spent an incredible 43 years ageing to perfection in a single PX sherry puncheon, while still retaining a highly respectable ABV of 48.6%.  Perfection doesn’t exist in whisky but if it did it would probably look something like this.

As always we have an enormous selection of drams to suit every budget on offer this month, so now is the time to delve into this month’s offerings and start building that watchlist.

Best of luck to everyone in the auction, and as always………..don’t lose your bottle.

Limited Follow-Up Allocation on a Rare Bottle at a Compelling Price

Blanton’s “Gold Edition” Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon

(750ml) (Pre-Arrival)

($169.99)

“Simply put, it’s just damn good every time.”
— David Othenin-Girard, K&L Spirits Buyer

We recently offered a small pre-arrival allocation of this 750mL Blanton’s Gold, and it disappeared almost immediately. We’ve secured another limited allocation and are pleased to share it with those who missed out the first time.

People talk a big game about Blanton’s Straight From the Barrel, but it is, in fact, this product—the 103-proof Gold version—that is the most perfect Blanton’s in my mind. It’s not only the beaming gold horse on top, but there’s something magical about this proof point for this liquid. Each barrel is unique and different, but I’ve never come across a barrel of Gold that felt mid—which I can’t say the same for the regular Blanton’s—no offense, Mr. B. The Straight From the Barrel is equally consistent, but there’s something about Gold that speaks to me—a richness that the lower proof offers that’s somewhat lost with the intensity of the full strength.

It’s just damn good every time. We’ve had no trouble selling these for $200-plus over the years, so right now this feels like a pretty dang good deal.

–David Othenin-Girard, K&L Spirits Buyer

Blanton’s “Gold Edition” Single Barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon (750ml) (Pre-Arrival) ($169.99)

This product is estimated to be available by 01/31/2026.

Blanton’s—the world’s first single-barrel bourbon—was created in 1984 by Elmer T. Lee and named for Colonel Albert B. Blanton. Lee had often watched Colonel Blanton hand-select “honey barrels” from the center of Warehouse H to share with special guests at the Old Stagg Distillery he cared for so deeply. The rare 103-proof Gold Edition is an exceptional bottling, and many connoisseurs’ preferred version of this venerable label. It’s exceedingly scarce at retail, so we’re proud to offer it at a compelling price. Please note: this is the standard U.S. 750ml bottle—not the 700ml export format.

Email: wine@klwines.com
Phone: (877) KL-WINES (Toll Free 877.559.4637)
K&L Wine Merchants 3005 El Camino Real Redwood City, CA 94061 USA
San Francisco, Redwood City, Hollywood CA

Fragrant Drops

North British 34 Years Old

ABV: 42.5% 70 cL

£89.00

Finish Toffee, flapjack, shortbread, fizzy lemon sherbet, key lime pie and a light toastiness.

Mark’s Whisky Ramblings 593: Caol Ila 15 Year Old 2010 Shepherd of the Herd

Mark Dermul, Belgian whisky blogger, became a shepherd… A Shepherd of the Herd! That’s the name of this new series, launched by Klubb23. The herd Mark and friends are going to tend to naturally consists of delightful whisky, what did you expect? To kick off the series, they immediately bottled a cracking malt: a 15-year-old Caol Ila, distilled in 2010 and laid to rest in a refill hogshead, then transferred in May 2022 to a first fill PX hogshead, which immediately explains the bronze hue. To stay in the storyline of shepherds and flocks, this first release – ‘wooled 001’ – features a Carinthian spectacled sheep, a breed from Austria named after the spectacle-shaped markings around its eyes.

https://youtu.be/l1RqCCHTzgg

Iron Gate Auctions Announces February Canada Spirits Auction Featuring Historical Bottles of Significance

Auction starts Monday February 2, 2026.

There are moments in the auction calendar when a sale becomes something more enduring—a reflection of history, craftsmanship, and the passage of time itself. Our February Spirits Auction in Canada is one such moment.

This auction brings together a collection of bottles that few will ever encounter in person, let alone have the opportunity to acquire. These are spirits shaped by decades—sometimes generations—of patience, foresight, and custodianship. Each bottle tells a story of an era, a philosophy, and a set of decisions that can never be replicated.

At the heart of the sale are landmark Scotch whiskies available for the first time in Canada. From the extraordinary 1949 MacPhail’s aged 68 years, to the cult status of 1964 Black Bowmore aged 42 years, to post-war 1948 Macallan and the singular character of Springbank’s Local Barley distilled in 1965 and bottled in 2001.

Equally compelling are the independent bottlings from distilleries that are now silent. Port Ellen, Brora, Glenugie, and Japan’s legendary Karuizawa represent lost chapters of distilling history—names that resonate deeply with collectors precisely because they can never be repeated. These whiskies are finite by nature, and each year their significance only grows.

This is, above all, a winter auction. One meant to be enjoyed slowly. I invite you cosy up to the fire, take time to browse the lots and to imagine these bottles of history in your home.

On behalf of the entire team at Iron Gate Auctions, thank you for your continued trust and passion. We look forward to welcoming you to what we believe is one of the most beautiful and significant spirits auctions of the season.

Link to Catalogue

If outside Canada, contact Iron Gate to see how you can participate in the upcoming auction.

Ajay Bhardwaj

Vice-President of Spirits

Iron Gate Auctions Canada

KENTUCKY DISTILLERS’ ASSOCIATION ANNOUNCES NEW BOARD OFFICERS, DIRECTORS

2026 Board Poised to Write Kentucky Bourbon’s Next Chapter

FRANKFORT, KY.— The Kentucky Distillers’ Association today announced that Gigi DaDan has been elected Chair of the Board of Directors for the 146-year-old non-profit trade group that unites and leads Kentucky’s signature Bourbon and distilled spirits industry.

DaDan, General Manager of Louisville Distilling Co., which owns the Angel’s Envy brand and distillery, will serve through December. She succeeds Ken Lewis, founder of New Riff Distilling and member of the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame®.

“As I take on the role of Chair, I’m deeply grateful for the leaders who have poured their wisdom, passion, and innovation into the Bourbon industry,” said DaDan.

“Helping create thousands of memorable Bourbon experiences has been one of the greatest privileges of my career, and stepping into this position feels both humbling and energizing. I’m honored to carry forward the legacy of America’s spirit and help build momentum for its rich, storied tradition as we grow stronger together.”

Founded in 1880, the KDA is recognized as the Worldwide Voice of Bourbon®. Its diverse membership produces the overwhelming majority of the world’s Bourbon, from legendary, global brands to micro-distilleries that are building the next generation of the timeless craft.

The KDA also owns and operates the world-famous Kentucky Bourbon Trail® tourism program, which attracts millions of visitors from around the globe every year to its distillery destinations across the Commonwealth.

KDA President Eric Gregory, entering his 19th year leading the historic group, said he is eager to work alongside DaDan and the entire Board to define the future of Kentucky Bourbon and American whiskey throughout the world.

“Now more than ever, our homegrown industry must rely on the unity, history and camaraderie that have built Kentucky Bourbon into an economic and tourism powerhouse,” he said. “Our industry is resilient, and our heritage is priceless and unique.

“It’s an honor to work alongside Gigi, our Board and our 125 member distilleries and partners who understand that we are stronger by working together. Our shared vision and passion for Kentucky Bourbon will continue to pave the way for success.”

Alongside DaDan, the Board also named David Salmon, COO/Founder of Jackson Purchase Distillery, as Vice Chair; Chris Morris, Master Distiller Emeritus at Brown-Forman Corp., as Treasurer; and Kaveh Zamanian, Founder, Rabbit Hole and Mary Dowling Whiskey at Pernod Ricard, as Secretary.

Other Board officers include Lewis as the Immediate Past Chair; Wally Dant, President and Distiller of Log Still Distillery, representing “Proof” level members; and Tom Bard, Co-Founder and CEO of The Bard Distillery, representing “Craft” level members.

Other Board members for 2026 include:

• Campari Group: Marco Barassi, Government Relations & Sustainability Director
• Castle & Key Distillery: Will Arvin, Co-Founder and Owner
• Diageo North America: Antoine Smith, Vice President of Distillation and Maturation North America
• Four Roses Distillery: Ryan Ashley, Chief Operating Officer
• Heaven Hill Distilleries, Inc.: Robert G. Downing III, Assistant General Counsel
• Lofted Spirits: Mark Erwin, Chief Executive Officer
• Lux Row Distillers: Landon Foster, Director – Visitor Experiences
• Michter’s Distillery: Andrea Wilson, Chief Operating Officer & Master of Maturation
• New Riff Distilling: Mollie Lewis, President
• Suntory Global Spirits: Crady deGolian, Director, Public Affairs
• Whiskey House of Kentucky: David Mandell, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer
• White Dog Trading & Storage: Tyler Harris, President
• Willett Distillery: Britt Kulsveen, President

About Gigi DaDan:

Georgene (Gigi) DaDan of Louisville, KY, is a seasoned global marketing leader whose 20+ year career has shaped thousands of unforgettable Bourbon experiences for visitors near and far. A proud alumna of Indiana University, DaDan began her journey in consumer insights, holding key roles at Proctor & Gamble and Pepsi Co., where she honed her passion for strategic, consumer-driven marketing.

Her path eventually led her to Kentucky, where all roads lead to Bourbon. DaDan quickly became a devoted Bourbon enthusiast and industry expert. She went on to serve in several high-impact leadership positions, including Global Marketing Director at Beam Global Spirits & Wine and Vice President, Global Maker’s Mark.

Today, DaDan channels her vision and expertise as Executive Officer, Louisville Distilling Co. and General Manager, Angel’s Envy and D’USSÉ Cognac, where she continues to elevate Bourbon’s landscape. Her dynamic, creative approach to brand building has redefined Bourbon’s hospitality sector, now boasting 2.7M+ visitors each year.

DaDan has served on the KDA Board since January 2022, and in 2025 served as Vice Chair.

 Founded in 1880, the Kentucky Distillers’ Association (KDA) is the Worldwide Voice of Bourbon™.

About the Kentucky Distillers’ Association:

Founded in 1880, the Kentucky Distillers’ Association is the legendary voice for Kentucky’s signature Bourbon and distilled spirits industry. Its diverse and growing membership produces the overwhelming majority of the world’s Bourbon, from historic, global brands to emerging micro distilleries that are fostering the next generation of the Commonwealth’s landmark economic engine and its thriving, timeless craft. Member benefits include media relations, international trade development, private sampling events, technical assistance, economic development support, networking, legal defense, marketing strategies, governmental and regulatory advocacy and innovative tourism experiences through the KDA’s world-famous Kentucky Bourbon Trail® and Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour® adventures. A 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization, the KDA maintains an open membership policy, champions a strong commitment to the responsible and moderate consumption of spirits, and fights to curb underage drinking and drunk driving. Learn more at www.kybourbon.com and www.kybourbontrail.com.