While some prefer Port Charlotte, you have to admit Octomore is rarely ever boring. We're now into the lucky thirteens of what is arguably the most heavily peated whisky in regular production. There are three variants on offer in this batch. 13.1 is a 5 year old (as usual), bourbon-barreled, and peated to 137.8ppm of phenols. Distilled in 2016 from a 2015 harvest, like all the other .1 editions, it's made using Scottish mainland barley. 59.2% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered.

Founded in 1824 The Macallan is a pioneer in Scottish whisky production, with a global reputation for its single malts. Founded by Alexander Reid, The Macallan draws its unique character from a confluence of influences. From the fertile Speyside region (historically called "Maghellan") to traditional methods and the natural resources of Scotland, Spain, and North America, each element contributes to the whisky's distinctive personality. The Macallan's unwavering commitment to quality is embodied in its "Six Pillars," a philosophy encompassing every aspect of production. From the "place" itself to the passionate people involved, each pillar reinforces the brand's dedication to excellence. Central to this philosophy is the "Mastery of Wood and Spirit." The distillery's reputation rests on the exceptional quality of its oak casks, meticulously sourced, crafted, and seasoned under the watchful eye of The Macallan's Master of Wood. Up to 80% of the final flavour profile is influenced by these casks, highlighting their crucial role in shaping the signature Macallan style. Another hallmark is the whisky's natural colour, derived solely from the wood during maturation. The distillery acknowledges the inherent variation in wood, with each cask imparting unique flavours and hues. Through expert cask management and selection, The Macallan ensures a consistent and beautiful colour spectrum across its bottlings, a key element of the brand's identity. The Macallan's dedication extends beyond Scotland. The distillery partners with Spanish cooperage companies, overseeing the entire process – from identifying oak trees in northern Spain to seasoning the casks for 18 months before their journey to Scotland. This meticulous approach, encompassing "tree to finished seasoned cask," underscores The Macallan's unwavering commitment to crafting an exceptional whisky experience. The Macallans newest offering for 2024 is the Macallan Colour Collection. This expression signifies a renewed commitment to the brand's hallmarks: natural colour development and maturation in sherry casks. The whisky features a core maturation in American oak casks, subtly enhanced by the inclusion of European oak. Jerez de la Frontera, Spain, a region celebrated for its exceptional sherry production, provides the seasoned sherry casks used for this expression. These casks impart a beautiful, natural auburn hue to the whisky during its extended 18-year maturation. Over this period, the spirit undergoes a remarkable transformation, developing a rich and layered flavour profile. Delicate notes of vanilla, milk chocolate, orange, and honeycomb emerge, interwoven with hints of lemon citrus, dried fruits, and baking spices. The influence of the sherry casks is evident in subtle whispers of almond, toffee, dried fruit, and a touch of warming spice. The resulting whisky is a harmonious blend of sweet and citrusy notes, with dominant characteristics of sweet oak, clementine, and honeycomb. The packaging for the Colour Collection 18 Year Old is a work of art in itself. Designed by renowned artist and graphic designer David Carson, it captures the essence of Jerez. The artwork depicts the warm glow of the evening sun casting its light on the traditional "teja" rooftops of the bodegas, set against a backdrop of rolling vineyards with their characteristic chalk-white soil. This evocative imagery creates a perfect visual representation of the ideal environment for savouring a dram of The Macallan. The Macallan Colour Collection is a celebration of The Macallan's commitment to natural colour and sherry seasoning. The Colour Collection 18 Year Old offers a whisky that has undergone maturation in American oak casks, enhanced by a delicate touch of European oak. Nose Clementine, panna cotta, baked apples with sultanas sweet oak. Palate Vanilla sponge, milk chocolate with orange, citrus peel, oak and honeycomb. Finish Medium with sweet oak and orange.

Founded in 1824 The Macallan is a pioneer in Scottish whisky production, with a global reputation for its single malts. Founded by Alexander Reid, The Macallan draws its unique character from a confluence of influences. From the fertile Speyside region (historically called "Maghellan") to traditional methods and the natural resources of Scotland, Spain, and North America, each element contributes to the whisky's distinctive personality. The Macallan's unwavering commitment to quality is embodied in its "Six Pillars," a philosophy encompassing every aspect of production. From the "place" itself to the passionate people involved, each pillar reinforces the brand's dedication to excellence. Central to this philosophy is the "Mastery of Wood and Spirit." The distillery's reputation rests on the exceptional quality of its oak casks, meticulously sourced, crafted, and seasoned under the watchful eye of The Macallan's Master of Wood. Up to 80% of the final flavour profile is influenced by these casks, highlighting their crucial role in shaping the signature Macallan style. Another hallmark is the whisky's natural colour, derived solely from the wood during maturation. The distillery acknowledges the inherent variation in wood, with each cask imparting unique flavours and hues. Through expert cask management and selection, The Macallan ensures a consistent and beautiful colour spectrum across its bottlings, a key element of the brand's identity. The Macallan's dedication extends beyond Scotland. The distillery partners with Spanish cooperage companies, overseeing the entire process – from identifying oak trees in northern Spain to seasoning the casks for 18 months before their journey to Scotland. This meticulous approach, encompassing "tree to finished seasoned cask," underscores The Macallan's unwavering commitment to crafting an exceptional whisky experience. The Macallan Litha presents a unique proposition in the world of single malts. This whisky is crafted entirely from first-fill sherry casks sourced from Jerez de la Frontera, Spain. This meticulous selection embodies the harmonious coming together of Scottish and Spanish influences to create an exceptional spirit. The story of Litha begins amidst the sun-drenched vineyards of Jerez. Here, grapes destined for sherry production are meticulously cultivated. These casks, crafted to The Macallan's exacting specifications, then embark on a journey to Scotland. Upon arrival, they encounter The Macallan's "fruity new make spirit," sparking a remarkable union that defines the character of the whisky. The name "Litha" draws inspiration from the Celtic summer solstice. This astronomical event signifies a pivotal moment, a burst of new life and a shift in the balance of nature. Similarly, The Macallan Litha celebrates the transformative power that arises when two distinct forces converge. The vibrant presentation box, designed by award-winning illustrator Sija Hong, further enhances the whisky's allure. Two bold colour palettes represent Scotland and Spain, united by the central image of a tree. This symbolic representation underscores the crucial role that cask maturation plays in creating The Macallan Litha, a whisky born from the harmonious fusion of two worlds. The unique character and complex flavours of The Macallan Litha is derived from the use of first fill sherry seasoned oak casks, the whisky mingling with the sherry seasoned oak. The gentle scent of vanilla and butterscotch unites with a spark of citrus over a bright canvas of tropical fruits, reminiscent of a summer’s day and the radiance of the sun’s energy. As the flavour develops, smooth vanilla ice cream topped with a berry compote dances on the palate, beautifully balanced with warming wood spice, chocolate, salted caramel and pecans, with a lingering hint of sweet oak.

Created from a combination of Pedro Ximénez and Oloroso sherry puncheons along with a small quantity of virgin oak casks and red wine barriques. 46% Alc./vol. Non chill filtered.

The Macallan was one of the first distillers in Scotland to be legally licensed. Since then they have built a reputation as one of the world’s leading single malt whiskies. The creation of The Macallan draws on the vital contributing influences of Spain, North America and Scotland - and of their respective natural raw materials, combined with traditional methods and craftsmanship. This Macallan A Night On Earth Single Malt Scotch Whisky is the second release of this whisky. At 43% abv it is a slightly stronger bottling than the previous release. Telling the story of Scotland’s world-famous Hogmanay festivities celebrated annually on 31st December, A Night on Earth in Scotland captures the universal joy of celebrating the change of year This seasonal release is a collaboration with acclaimed Japanese-French illustrator Erica Dorn, whose artwork has featured in director Wes Anderson’s films. The single malt is presented in unique packaging to provide a special unboxing experience and Dorn’s playful abstract illustrations are inspired by the historic fire rituals dominant in New Year celebrations around the world. A Night on Earth in Scotland is created from a selection of The Macallan’s exceptional American and European oak sherry seasoned casks, along with American ex-bourbon barrels to deliver its rich, sweet shortbread-like character. A whisky referencing the rich Scottish delicacy traditionally gifted and eaten at Hogmanay, punctuated by festive notes of dried orange and spice.

Octomore seems to be getting a second wind of popularity - not that it was ever unpopular. Added to that is a sense of scarcity with allocations becoming smaller every year. 12.2 is no exception. The .2s in the series are known to showcase the impact of different wine barrels on the heavily peated Islay whisky. Distilled in the winter of 2015 from 100% Scottish grown Concerto barley, 12.2 weighs in at 129.7ppm and was matured in ex-Bourbon barrels, followed by 18 months in rare first-fill Sauternes casks. Knowing how well 'sweet & peat' can work, it's destined to be one of the more desirable editions to date. Bottled at cask strength, expect something sweet-ish with a salty edge, lots of earthy peat, sweet bonfire smoke plus hints of maritime complexity. 57.3% Alc./Vol. Non chill filtered. Very limited stocks .

Following the success of Grand Cru, Grande Couronne is the next releasein the Grand Series. Grande Couronne is the epitome of true opulence,uncorked at only the most majestic and meaningful of gatherings.After 26 years at the Glenfiddich Distillery, it is refined andelegant. But its crowning glory awaits. An extended finish inrare French Cognac casks adds extra lavish layers of sweettoasted oak and velvety aromas of café crème, brown sugarand soft spice.TASTING NOTES:Deep, velvety smooth and indulgently sweet. Café crème with soft brown sugar and a hint of spice.SERVING SUGGESTION: Serve neat in a balloon glass and a few drops of water to open up the flavour.

Johnnie Walker Blue Label is the pinnacle of the Johnnie Walker Whisky stable. Created to reflect the the style of whiskies of the early 19th century, it is created using the rarest casks in House of Walker, the largest in the world. The casks are hand selected and set aside for their exceptional quality, character and flavour while retaining the signature smokiness of Johnnie Walker whiskies.

The 2022 Diageo Special & Rare collection is known as "Elusive Expressions", drawn from some of Scotland’s most interesting, legendary distilleries and curated by Master Blender Dr Craig Wilson, portrays the otherworldly beings which have fiercely protected the heartlands of remote Scottish distilleries for an eternity, according to our ancient fables and the mythical creatures come to life revealing their true characters. This year each bottle has its own unique QR code which, when scanned, takes you on a multi-sensory experience that tells you the story of the whisky, the mythical creature behind the artwork, and gives you some tasting notes to prompt your nose and palate along the way. The label artwork follows almost as a sequel to the 2021 range, revolving once again around the theme of mythical beasts and stories. Illustrator, Ken Taylor, returns again and is joined this year by digital visualisation artist, Kevin Tong. Oban 10 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky 700ml (Special Release 2022) was matured first in refill and new American oak, then finished in Amontillado-seasoned casks. The nose has an appealing and enticing malty base, accompanied with hints of heather, petrichor, and the slight brininess of Amontillado. The palate is pleasantly dry, slightly spicy, again a little salty, and satisfying.

The 2022 Diageo Special & Rare collection is known as "Elusive Expressions", drawn from some of Scotland’s most interesting, legendary distilleries and curated by Master Blender Dr Craig Wilson, portrays the otherworldly beings which have fiercely protected the heartlands of remote Scottish distilleries for an eternity, according to our ancient fables and the mythical creatures come to life revealing their true characters. This year each bottle has its own unique QR code which, when scanned, takes you on a multi-sensory experience that tells you the story of the whisky, the mythical creature behind the artwork, and gives you some tasting notes to prompt your nose and palate along the way. The label artwork follows almost as a sequel to the 2021 range, revolving once again around the theme of mythical beasts and stories. Illustrator, Ken Taylor, returns again and is joined this year by digital visualisation artist, Kevin Tong. Clynelish 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky 700ml (Special Release 2022) was matured in refill American oak, then finished in Pedro Ximenez and Oloroso-seasoned casks. The warm and welcome undertones of sherry set the base for the nose, which dovetails seamlessly with the signature Clynelish waxiness and apple skins. Caramel and vanilla custard round out the nose. The palate is sweet, surprisingly malty, and has a finish that is warming and lingers for an eternity. Wonderfully complex and complete.