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Glenmorangie
A Tale of Cake
ABV 46.0%
Comments: One to put down for the dessert list, would be curious to put this with a panna cotta.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Ancnoc Ancnoc
Peatheart Batch 2
ABV 46.0%
Comments: Definitely one to pack for a picnic, summer or autumn, just dress appropriately for the weather and load the hip flask.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Glen Moray Glen Moray
Distillery Edition Burgundy Cask 2004
ABV 60.1%
Comments: This is a great Speysider; the ABV doesn’t seem to kick at all, suggesting carefully curated maturation.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Cotswolds Cotswolds
Peated Cask Single Malt Whisky
ABV 59.3%
Comments: Not as big and bruising as the ABV might suggest. Water brings out this delicate spiced and sweet side.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Duncan Taylor Rarest of the Rare Duncan Taylor Rarest of the Rare
Inverleven
1978, 29 Years Old
ABV 45.5%
Comments: There’s something about Duncan Taylor and creamy whiskies. It’s almost a house style, which is good.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
The Single Malts of Scotland The Single Malts of Scotland
The BenRiach
1984, 23 Years Old
ABV 54.2%
Comments: Perfect balance. Elegant. A belter.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
The GlenDronach The GlenDronach
33 Years Old
ABV 40.0%
Comments: To be enjoyed like a glass of port. Bring walnuts and blue cheese.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Old Malt Cask Old Malt Cask
Director's Tactical Selection
18 Years Old
ABV 50.0%
Comments: This has it all but goes about it in an unflashy manner. Good.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Laphroaig Laphroaig
1994, 12 Years Old, Feis Isle 2006 Bottling
ABV 56.0%
Comments: The reserved nose is compensated by a lively, palate. Laphroaig is bang on form.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Dewar Rattray Cask Collection Dewar Rattray Cask Collection
Linkwood
1983, 25 Years Old
ABV 53.0%
Comments: Balanced and gentle.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Glenfiddich Glenfiddich
Cask Collection, Vintage Cask
ABV 40.0%
Comments: I kept on changing my mind about this but the smoke adds an amazing dimension.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Kavalan Kavalan
Podium
ABV 46.0%
Comments: I love the exotic character but water loosened it up a little too much.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Balblair Balblair
1990
ABV 46.0%
Comments: Sophisticated and beautifully integrated. Unusual flavours for Balblair but they work.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
The Quiet Man “An Fear Ciuin” The Quiet Man “An Fear Ciuin”
8 Years Old
ABV 40.0%
Comments: Lots of potential for this Irish Whiskey.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Longmorn Longmorn
15 Years Old
ABV 45.0%
Comments: A rewarding marriage of weight and elegancy.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Laphroaig
10 Years Old, Cask Strength
ABV 55.7%
Comments: A fine robust dram with lots happening. Laphroaig at its best.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Connemara Connemara
Aged 12 Years
ABV 40.0%
Comments: Good balance. Doesn't like water. Start here.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
The Glenlivet The Glenlivet
15 Years Old, French Oak Reserve
ABV 40.0%
Comments: Complex. Entrancing.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Gordon & MacPhail Gordon & MacPhail
The Glenlivet
1954
ABV 41.0%
Comments: A gorgeous whisky, that shows some age, but it holds it well.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Glen Moray Glen Moray
Fired Oak
ABV 40.0%
Comments: A no nonsense malt. Wonderful balance, just missing a little more punch to it.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Casino Series Casino Series
Tobermory
Aged 21 Years
ABV 48.9%
Comments: Hip flask material for a warming reviving stop in the countryside.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Jura Jura
Seven Wood
ABV 42.0%
Comments: A really lovely dram – the lack of spice makes it sweet all the way.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Berry Bros. & Rudd Berry Bros. & Rudd
Fettercairn
2006, 11 Years Old
ABV 46.0%
Comments: Lovely and very enjoyable.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Glenmorangie Glenmorangie
Spios
ABV 46.0%
Comments: Really fun with layers emerging. Such a great finish too.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Scott's Selection Scott's Selection
Caol Ila
1981, 30 Years Old
ABV 61.7%
Comments: Fantastic balance and depth for its age. Exemplary old peaty whisky.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Lombard Lombard
1984
ABV 50.0%
Comments: Sweet and smoky Islay with pleasing development. My kind of complexity.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Box Whisky Box Whisky
2nd Step Collection – 02
ABV 51.2%
Comments: A youthful drop that dances across the tongue.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Tomatin Tomatin
Five Virtues Wood Edition
ABV 46.0%
Comments: Have this as a half-and-half with a lambic, perhaps?
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
"An Fear Ciuin"
The Quiet Man
8 Years Old
ABV 40.0%
Comments: Utterly consistent from start to finish, this is one to enjoy with friends just getting into whisky.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Highland Park Highland Park
Sigurd
ABV 43.0%
Comments: Clear evidence of a higher proportion of Spanish oak-matured spirit here.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Glencadam Glencadam
17 Years Old Triple Cask Portwood Finish
ABV 46.0%
Comments: A lot going on, maybe too much. Not quite a rainbow, nor a grey muddle.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Knappogue Castle Knappogue Castle
14 Years Old, Twin Wood, Single Malt Irish Whiskey
ABV 46.0%
Comments: Loved this. Lots of complexity but wonderful soft fruitiness. Would happily go back for a few drams of it and would never guess the ABV was 46%.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Edradour Edradour
Port Cask Matured
ABV 46.0%
Comments: Really beautiful. Loads going on with great depth and a classic approach. Very engaging nose and palate.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Spirit of Hven Spirit of Hven
Seven Stars Single Malt Whisky
ABV 45.0%
Comments: This was like being coddled in a tweed blanket, warming and reassuring.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Speciality Drinks Speciality Drinks
Elements of Islay
Bn6 (Bunnahabhain)
ABV 56.9%
Comments: A dense and energetic profile. It would easily replace a wake up call! I need to tame it with a dash of water. But then it gets even spicier.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Darkness! Darkness!
Clynelish
16 Years Old, Oloroso Cask
ABV 54.9%
Comments: A strong character, oak driven. For me, the alcohol is not well mastered.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Darkness! Darkness!
Benrinnes
15 Years Old, Oloroso Cask
ABV 52.9%
Comments: I am usually not a huge fan of these big oaky monsters, but this nails the nose perfectly. The dry palate will be a problem for others though.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Edradour Edradour
2006 Oloroso Sherry Cask
ABV 59.2%
Comments: This begs for water, so add carefully. A wonderful nose.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Master of Malt Master of Malt
Single Cask Series
Ben Nevis, 16 Years Old
ABV 57.4%
Comments: Pleasant. A little heavy on the oak, but that's just picking holes really!
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Teerenpeli Teerenpeli
Kaski, Distiller's Choice
ABV 43.0%
Comments: More Dramboree than Jamboree, me thinks. Very nice indeed.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Paul John Paul John
Brilliance
ABV 46.0%
Comments: If this was a Bond movie, it would be Quantum Of Solace. Very manly, a little brutal in places but bloody difficult to understand.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Mackmyra Mackmyra
Moment Mareld
ABV 52.2%
Comments: Intriguing and well worth giving this some serious attention.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Isle of Jura Isle of Jura
1977
ABV 46.0%
Comments: The fruity explosion is surprising. I prefer it without adding water. Deliciously refreshing as well.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Master of Malt Master of Malt
Clynelish, 15 Years Old
ABV 56.1%
Comments: One for the warming days, would be a joy in a hip flask.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
That Boutique-y Whisky Company That Boutique-y Whisky Company
Bowmore
Batch 1
ABV 48.7%
Comments: Impressive nose and then the palate takes you in a different direction. Lovely engaging dram though.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Berrys' Own Selection Berrys' Own Selection
Clynelish
1997, 14 Years Old, Cask #6864
ABV 46.0%
Comments: An excellent everyday summer dram. Sweet without excess, with an aerial texture. Fresh and fragrant.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Master of Malt Master of Malt
Secret Bottlings Series
12 Years Old
ABV 40.0%
Comments: A well balanced dram, full of surprises and layers.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
The Octave
Linkwood
1991, 20 Years Old
ABV 50.9%
Comments: A big Linkwood, but clearly from there.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
The Glenlivet The Glenlivet
Guardians Single Cask 18 Years Old
ABV 55.7%
Comments: The alcohol strength shows up. This dram needs water. A beautiful fruity and spicy character.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Highland Park Highland Park
Hjarta, Aged 12 Years
ABV 58.1%
Comments: Another worthy addition to the Highland Park range. Only on limited release but well worth seeking out.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Springbank Springbank
1998, Vintage
ABV 53.3%
Comments: If you like it big and oaky this is your boy. Late night,night cap.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Ardbeg Ardbeg
Supernova 2010
ABV 60.1%
Comments: A head-cleaning experience. Not for the fainthearted.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Scott's Selection Scott's Selection
Craigellachie
1991, 20 Years Old
ABV 55.8%
Comments: Starts off nosing younger than its years, but grows into itself with time.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Dewar Rattray Cask Collection Dewar Rattray Cask Collection
Port Ellen
25 Years Old
ABV 60.4%
Comments: A superb Port Ellen,more sophisticated than the Diageo one. Two styles. This one is more an indoor dram. Toeach his own.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Speciality Drinks Speciality Drinks
Elements of Islay
Lg2 (Lagavulin)
ABV 57.0%
Comments: Vibrant and full of character. Best neat.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Laphroaig Laphroaig
18 Years Old
ABV 48.0%
Comments: Not the big phenolic guy but a very refreshing islander. Smoke is well integrated and the aromatic display is elegant.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Glenmorangie Glenmorangie
Quinta Ruban
ABV 46.0%
Comments: Again a real improvement on the old finish.Light.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Caol Ila Caol Ila
Distillers Edition 1995
ABV 43.0%
Comments: A charming nose which is not fully delivered on the palate. But an excellent dram all together.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Lombard Jewels of Scotland Lombard Jewels of Scotland
Brora
1982
ABV 50.0%
Comments: A big package, yet quite restrained.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
The Cooper's Choice The Cooper's Choice
Rosebank
1992
ABV 40.0%
Comments: A reminder of a great Lowland malt lost.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Longrow Longrow
Aged 14 Years
ABV 46.0%
Comments: Far more interesting than the 10 Years Old versions. It has the freshness and vibrancy of a crisp cold and rainy morning.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Bushmills Bushmills
Aged 21 Years, Madeira Finish
ABV 40.0%
Comments: A whiskey with complexity, character and some age to it.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Ichiro's Malt Ichiro's Malt
Ace of Hearts, 22 Years Old
ABV 56.0%
Comments: Water cuts the edges a little but does not mellow the sourness.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Old Malt Cask Old Malt Cask
Aged 18 Years
ABV 50.0%
Comments: Good complexity, structure and balance of smoke, spice and sweetness.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
The Glenturret The Glenturret
14 Years Old
ABV 59.7%
Comments: Limited depth and complexity, but the dimensions this offers are bold and pleasing without particular off-notes.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Bunnahabhain Bunnahabhain
35 Years Old, Limited Edition
ABV 44.9%
Comments: No water required, as this brought out a soapiness for me. A very satisfying old malt.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
The Balvenie The Balvenie
RumWood, Aged 14 Years
ABV 47.1%
Comments: A classy package with the rum adding its character to an already well-matured spirit. This is what finishing is about.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Gordon & MacPhail Gordon & MacPhail
Glen Grant
1968
ABV 40.0%
Comments: A ghost-like dram almost too elusive to grasp.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Duncan Taylor Rarest of the Rare Duncan Taylor Rarest of the Rare
Inverleven
1978, 26 Years Old, Cask 1873
ABV 50.1%
Comments: An interesting character. Much sweeter on the palate than expected from the nose. Water brings out an unpleasant cardboardy touch.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Douglas Laing Douglas Laing
Caol Ila
1979, Aged 26 Years (bottled for The Whisky Fair)
ABV 57.2%
Comments: Should have been taken out of the cask a few years back. Easy to say now of course.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Rare Malts Selection Rare Malts Selection
Aged 26 Years, Cask Strength
ABV 56.5%
Comments: In the crush bar at the opera?
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Ardbeg Ardbeg
Oloroso Finish, Cask 4704
ABV 47.2%
Comments: Not for the fainthearted. A hairy beast.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Gordon & MacPhail Private Collection Gordon & MacPhail Private Collection
Clynelish
1969, 14 Years Old
ABV 45.0%
Comments: A hint of sulphur in the nose had me dismissing this whisky. It seemed young, immature, callow - but we finishing up flirting.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Duncan Taylor Duncan Taylor
Glen Garioch
1988, Aged 16 Years
ABV 56.1%
Comments: Great balance and brilliantly structured. More please.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Cadenhead's World Whiskies
Cooley
Aged 12 Years
ABV 60.0%
Comments: Has impact and aggression, but a bit one dimensional.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Gordon & MacPhail Private Collection Gordon & MacPhail Private Collection
Caol Ila
1969
ABV 45.0%
Comments: After a few of these, the rebel leader (played by Anthony Quinn) toasts freedom, and we start firing our carbines in the air.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Chivas Brothers Chivas Brothers
Strathisla
1988, Aged 15 Years, Cask Strength
ABV 55.1%
Comments: Make the effort to sample a cracking dram and to visit the bonniest distillery in Scotland.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
The Wee Dram The Wee Dram
Mortlach
12 Years Old
ABV 43.0%
Comments: The first bottling from The Wee Dram. A promising debut.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Old Malt Cask
Port Ellen
1982, Aged 21 Years
ABV 50.0%
Comments: Big European oak influence. A little dry but good.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
The Yamazaki
80th Anniversary Bottling
ABV 43.0%
Comments: A lovely, elegant, delicately malty Yamazaki.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Hakushu
30th Anniversary Bottling
ABV 43.0%
Comments: A beautifully composed whisky. No aggression, but a great sense of authority.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Bushmills Bushmills
1982 Bourbon Cask, Specially selected for Whisky Magazine tasting
ABV 57.8%
Comments: An unusually dry expression of Bushmills. Complex. Austere. Bushmills needs a touch of sherry sweetness.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Rare Malts Selection Rare Malts Selection
Rosebank
Aged 20 Years
ABV 62.3%
Comments: This is how Lowlanders used to be: drier, more herbal, more complex. Buy now, while stocks last.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Rare Malts Selection Rare Malts Selection
Caol Ila
Aged 21 Years
ABV 61.3%
Comments: Complex, great balance. Hidden malt? Not any more.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Signatory Signatory
Bowmore
1968
ABV 46.0%
Comments: At first tasting, I was hard-pressed to find any Islay character at all. On a second tasting, the next morning with a fresh palate, I began to find some smokiness. Even then, it seemed to emerge on the tongue for two or three minutes.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
The Glenlivet
Cellar Collection, 30 Years Old, American Oak Finish
ABV 48.0%
Comments: Good, if you like this in-yer-face style but why do you need to 'finish' a 30 Years Old malt? To give a lift to a malt that lacked complexity?
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Signatory Signatory
Port Ellen
1978, Port Wood
ABV 58.0%
Comments: Austere, pretty challenging. Finished, I suspect, to inject some fruity life into its dry bones.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Signatory
Ardmore
1990
ABV 46.0%
Comments: Robust as ever, but much more peatiness than I associate with this distillery. Oaky, too, for a relatively young whisky.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Craigellachie Hotel of Speyside Craigellachie Hotel of Speyside
Glenfarclas
2001 Single Cask Bottling
ABV 51.2%
Comments: Good stuff with plenty of rich distillery character. Balance. That's what it is all about.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Adelphi Adelphi
Clynelish
16 Years Old
ABV 54.0%
Comments: Impressive, smokeless and delicate for its age. A finely tuned malt.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Celtique Connexion
Caol Ila
1982
ABV 43.0%
Comments: A confusion of flavours that don't seem to have rounded in the cask
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Bowmore
Dawn
ABV 51.5%
Comments: Like sucking a wine gum in a kiln. A little too winey for me.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Adelphi Clynelish
1989, 13 Years Old
ABV 56.7%
Comments: A light-bodied lovely outdoor dram, to serve with barbecued fish. Fresh like a sea-breeze.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Tullibardine Tullibardine
The Stillman's Dram, 30 Years Old
ABV 45.0%
Comments: Perilously easy to drink. The whisky world's answer to a New World Chardonnay.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Glen Garioch Glen Garioch
8 Years Old
ABV 40.0%
Comments: Easily one of the best 8 Years Old on the market: very, very impressive and enjoyable.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Oban Oban
21 Years Old
ABV 57.9%
Comments: Really enjoyable, the ABV is not intrusive and the dram breathes quality.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
The Glenlivet The Glenlivet
21 Years Old
ABV 43.0%
Comments: A wonderful line between sweet and earthy, a hint of smoke could be an interesting addition too.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Virginia Distillery Co. Virginia Distillery Co.
Courage & Conviction
ABV 46.0%
Comments: A great example of an American single malt. A relatively easy drinker.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
The BenRiach The BenRiach
21 Years Old
ABV 46.0%
Comments: Shows great depth and balance between the sweet and wood elements.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Milk & Honey Milk & Honey
Classic
ABV 46.0%
Comments: A decent dram that has been well looked after and thought through from distillation to maturation.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
The Pogues The Pogues
Single Malt Irish Whiskey
ABV 40.0%
Comments: The palate was a surprise after the promise of the nose, but then it all picked back up at the finish.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Glenmorangie Glenmorangie
The Tribute, 16 Years Old
ABV 43.0%
Comments: Very shy and doesn’t give much away, a distinct lack of wood influence gives the platform to the distillate.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Glenmorangie Glenmorangie
The Elementa, 14 Years Old
ABV 43.0%
Comments: Fairly well balanced and straight forward too.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Speyburn Speyburn
1977, 21 Years Old
ABV 58.5%
Comments: Very restrained, but lovely gentle peat smoke.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Bushmills
16 Years Old
ABV 40.0%
Comments: Is the house character overwhelmed by the three woods (bourbon, sherry and port)? I'll give it the benefit of the doubt.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Dewar Rattray Cask Collection Dewar Rattray Cask Collection
Linkwood
1989, 18 Years Old
ABV 58.7%
Comments: It’s big, it’s oaky but it’s lovely (because it’s balanced).
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Duncan Taylor Rarest of the Rare Duncan Taylor Rarest of the Rare
Mosstowie
1975, 29 Years Old, Cask 5812
ABV 44.5%
Comments: A beautiful combination of fruit and malt. On a hot summer day (in Scotland?), I’d dare throwing an ice cube in my glass! Good heavens!
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
The Cooper's Choice The Cooper's Choice
Mortlach
1990, 14 Years Old
ABV 46.0%
Comments: Delicious, especially if you have a sweet tooth.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Duncan Taylor Rare Auld Duncan Taylor Rare Auld
Strathclyde
1973, 31 Years Old
ABV 62.8%
Comments: A rich, creamy and characterful grain whisky. A bit sharp-edged but water puts it right.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Duncan Taylor Rare Auld Duncan Taylor Rare Auld
Cameronbridge
1979, 26 Years Old
ABV 59.5%
Comments: Has this grain whisky matured in a rum cask? Intensely rum-like. The cereal profile is somewhat masked on the palate.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Berrys' Own Selection Berrys' Own Selection
Balmenach
1979
ABV 56.3%
Comments: A rum finish? An interesting and complex dram with enough dryness to balance the sweet Demerara profile.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Glenfiddich Glenfiddich
Cask Collection, Select Cask
ABV 40.0%
Comments: A gentle easy drinking dram, don’t add too much water.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
That Boutique-y Whisky Company That Boutique-y Whisky Company
Glen Keith
Batch 1
ABV 51.2%
Comments: Interesting to go back and compare the two bottlings. Both took a while to unravel but worth the wait.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
The Dalmore The Dalmore
12 Years Old
ABV 40.0%
Comments: Genuinely classy stuff from the 24 carat jewel in JBB's Scottish crown.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Bowmore
17 Years Old
ABV 43.0%
Comments: A quite delicious version but not anything like the heavier, more complex 17 Years Old of old.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Aberlour Aberlour
1976
ABV 43.0%
Comments: A little more roundness would have been appreciated.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Glendullan Glendullan
12 Years Old
ABV 43.0%
Comments: A malt which has changed direction in recent years, probably because of the new stillhouse. It's nothing like as oily as of yore. The charm and delicacy more than make amends.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Caol Ila Caol Ila
12 Years Old
ABV 43.0%
Comments: Great balance and the best of the three.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Glenglassaugh Glenglassaugh
Octaves Batch 2
ABV 44.0%
Comments: Quite nice despite being shy. In time evolves into a good solid dram.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Smögen Svensk Smögen Svensk
Single Malt Single Cask 56/2011 Edition No.6 - Rum Finish
ABV 62.4%
Comments: A serious headturner of a whisky and worth seeking out.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Mackmyra Mackmyra
Skördetid
ABV 46.1%
Comments: Well worth a look, certainly a dram for brooding over in the winter evenings .
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Lady of the Glen Lady of the Glen
Tullibardine
11 Years Old
ABV 59.3%
Comments: Opening a cupboard on a hot day, whilst sipping banana smoothie.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Brora Brora
Aged 34 Years, Special Release
ABV 51.9%
Comments: Not a particularly active maturation, but end results are pleasing.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Berry Bros. & Rudd Berry Bros. & Rudd
Dailuaine
1996, 21 Years Old
ABV 46.0%
Comments: Seem to go down a couple of routes, but what's not to like? Delivers perfectly.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Lombard Jewels of Scotland Lombard Jewels of Scotland
Dailuaine
2000
ABV 55.7%
Comments: Decent enough for the springtime hipflask, and water helps it open up.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Berry Bros. & Rudd Berry Bros. & Rudd
Royal Brackla
1997, 19 Years Old
ABV 46.0%
Comments: A really delightful drop. Starts like velvet but packs a punch. Has a soothing quality, one for a contemplative nightcap.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Glenmorangie Glenmorangie
Grand Vintage 1989
ABV 43.1%
Comments: A pretty easy going dram, certainly a go to on a spring evening. Lots of vanilla and sweetness.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Loch Lomond Loch Lomond
Inchmoan Vintage 1992
ABV 48.6%
Comments: Very pleasingly old-school and mouth-watering.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Highland Park Highland Park
Magnus
ABV 40.0%
Comments: Very approachable, as they say, for newcomers.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Edradour Edradour
Chardonnay Cask Matured
ABV 46.0%
Comments: Chef got carried away in the kitchen and walked off leaving a right mess after that caramel mishap.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Box Box
The Explorer
ABV 48.3%
Comments: Chocolaty flavours juxtapose with a dry palate and wood shavings.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Box Box
American Oak
ABV 50.8%
Comments: A neon dream of a whisky on the nose, much more traditional on the palate.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Tullibardine Tullibardine
The Murray
ABV 57.8%
Comments: It’s Auchentoshan on steroids!
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Raasay Raasay
While We Wait
ABV 46.0%
Comments: Lots of flavours and the balance is almost there.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Ben Nevis Ben Nevis
White Port Pipe Cask 12 Years Old
ABV 56.3%
Comments: Perfect to pair with cheese, but make sure you have some water handy.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Nant Nant
Bourbon Wood Single Cask
ABV 43.0%
Comments: Sweet, this shows that good whisky making is alive and well in Oz, even if there are better aged examples.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Highland Park Highland Park
Einar
ABV 40.0%
Comments: Nicely balanced, not overly complex.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
The Glenrothes The Glenrothes
Elder's Reserve
ABV 43.0%
Comments: Soft and rounded – a step up from Manse Reserve in being very nearly the complete article.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Balblair Balblair
2004 Sherry Matured
ABV 46.0%
Comments: We tend to think that Balblair’s spirit character is best suited by ex-Bourbon barrels, but this is a good example of how well it handles sherry wood, too.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
The GlenDronach The GlenDronach
The Heilan'
ABV 46.0%
Comments: A pleasure to imbibe, with the flavours taking turns and enchanting my palate at every sip. A touch difficult to get my head around at first, a little breathing and water goes a long way.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
The GlenDronach The GlenDronach
Cask Strength Batch 4
ABV 54.7%
Comments: The more of it I tried, the more I liked it. A real sweetheart of a whisky.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Craigellachie Craigellachie
13 Years Old
ABV 46.0%
Comments: Lovely whisky – lots to offer, and one to sit with for a while.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Wemyss Malts Wemyss Malts
Glen Scotia
1991, Salted Caramel
ABV 46.0%
Comments: Bold, spicy and peppery with a dynamic dry smoke. Anyone fancy a Jalfrezi?
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Tamdhu
Aged 10 Years
ABV 40.0%
Comments: Not a big hitter or EXTREME, but who cares. Sometimes it's nice to be a little gem.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
The Glenlivet The Glenlivet
Alpha
ABV 50.0%
Comments: Perfect for a summer's day, I hope we actually get one this year!
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
That Boutique-y Whisky Company That Boutique-y Whisky Company
Springbank
Batch 1
ABV 54.6%
Comments: A perfect dram to see you through the chilly nights.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Glenfarclas The Family Casks Glenfarclas The Family Casks
Release X, 1959
ABV 48.5%
Comments: So much wood to get past but well worth the fight. This is a final night's dram.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Master of Malt Master of Malt
Ardbeg, 18 Years Old
ABV 56.3%
Comments: Try describing 'Islay' to someone who has never visited before. If they still don't get it, give them a dram of this.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Aberfeldy Aberfeldy
Single Cask 21 Years Old
ABV 55.3%
Comments: The alcohol is well mastered.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
The Maltman The Maltman
Glenlossie
Aged 19 Years
ABV 0.0%
Comments: Very focused with good interplay between the spirit and wood.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Aberfeldy Aberfeldy
Unravel 16 Years Old
ABV 56.5%
Comments: On the oaky side but lots of fruit as well. The alcohol is well controlled.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Scott's Selection Scott's Selection
Tamdhu 1984 27 Years Old
ABV 49.6%
Comments: A nicely-integrated old dram.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Speciality Drinks Speciality Drinks
Elements of Islay
Kh1 (Kilchoman)
ABV 59.7%
Comments: A sweet islander. Can be enjoyed without water.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Glenfarclas Glenfarclas
1964 Sherry Butt
ABV 48.5%
Comments: Old but not very lively. The nose is complex and fragrant.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Highland Park Highland Park
1990
ABV 40.0%
Comments: Strangely similar to a golden rum - albeit a smoky one.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Rosebank Rosebank
21 Years Old
ABV 53.8%
Comments: At its best with a splash of water.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Glenmorangie Glenmorangie
Finealta
ABV 46.0%
Comments: Really? Wouldn't have called that. Those holiday taste buds again. A bit of a radical departure for Glenmorangie, but an exciting one.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
The Glenrothes The Glenrothes
1978 Vintage Malt
ABV 43.0%
Comments: Strange fellow with an austere halo. Seems unable to jump out of its oaky frame. It needs time to open up.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Port Ellen Port Ellen
7th Release, 1979, 28 Years Old
ABV 53.8%
Comments: A tough lad with a lot of muscles and energy but not deprived of finesse. Tastes young. Invigorating like a walk by a shore on a 'dricht'
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Talisker Talisker
57° North
ABV 57.0%
Comments: The polar opposite to Talisker 18. Rugged and warming.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Duncan Taylor Rare Auld Duncan Taylor Rare Auld
Glen Grant
1972, 35 Years Old
ABV 53.5%
Comments: A fruit basket ! Needs water to keep alcohol quiet. Quiet a restless fellow. The nose delivers layers of fruit.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Old Malt Cask
Banff
Aged 32 Years
ABV 50.0%
Comments: Dessert for non-dessert eaters like me. Whisky's answer to a homemade apple pie.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Wemyss Vintage Malts Wemyss Vintage Malts
The Almond Tree
1970, Campbeltown
ABV 46.0%
Comments: Great balance. Worth a look.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
The Arran Malt The Arran Malt
Gordon's Dram
Specially selected for Gordon Mitchell
ABV 46.0%
Comments: A gentle and sweet farewell to one of the gentlest and sweetest men in the industry. Farewell Gordon, we'll miss you.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Springbank Springbank
Vintage, 10 Years Old
ABV 55.2%
Comments: A strange character. Hard to grab. The palate reveals an interesting sweetness but the finish disappoints.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Old Pulteney Old Pulteney
15 Years Old, Cask Strength
ABV 54.9%
Comments: A slightly odd melange of flavours and textures...but it works.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Old Malt Cask Old Malt Cask
Highland Park
Aged 16 Years
ABV 50.0%
Comments: A pleasant and balanced malt with a definite island character, but given the choice available from this great distillery, it pales.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Penderyn Penderyn
Grand Slam
ABV 46.0%
Comments: A well structured whisky. Oak frames the aromatic palette without overpowering. Quite a complex dram.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
The Single Malts of Scotland The Single Malts of Scotland
Aged 40 Years
ABV 42.8%
Comments: Highly perfumed. This needs time to open. Worth a look. Good price!
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
The Queen of the Moorlands The Queen of the Moorlands
Aged 10 Years, Rare Cask
ABV 46.0%
Comments: Very good, but better without water. Is Caol Ila the most consistent distillery ever? So many indies, so few duff drams.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
The BenRiach The BenRiach
Aged 21 Years, Authenticus Single Peated Malt
ABV 46.0%
Comments: Another region-buster and a good one too.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Gordon & MacPhail Gordon & MacPhail
St. Magdalene
1975
ABV 43.0%
Comments: Well balanced, though not quite the extra dimension of the very best on show.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
The Queen of the Moorlands The Queen of the Moorlands
Aged 12 Years, Rare Cask
ABV 54.7%
Comments: A deft, attractive, dram.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Park Avenue Liquor Shop Park Avenue Liquor Shop
Highland Park
1980, Single Cask
ABV 58.0%
Comments: Very satisfying flavours.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Berrys' Own Selection Berrys' Own Selection
Lochside
1991
ABV 40.0%
Comments: Well balanced, fresh and pleasant. The finish lacks some depth maybe. But that does not take the pleasure away.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
The Whisky Exchange
Jura
1999, Aged 5 Years
ABV 63.0%
Comments: Jura's manager Michael Heads worked at Laphroaig. A coincidence? More please!
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
The McGibbon's Provenance
The Glenrothes
13 Years Old
ABV 46.0%
Comments: Good, but lacks a little sweetness.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Cadenhead's
Dallas Dhu
23 Years Old
ABV 60.8%
Comments: I think I have discovered a breakfast whisky. They can call it Dallas Dhu. I'll dub it "Death in the Morning. "
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Rare Malts Selection Rare Malts Selection
Convalmore
1978, Aged 24 Years
ABV 54.9%
Comments: The second good Convalmore I have tasted. It was not highly rated in its lifetime, but could win friends now.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Ardbeg Ardbeg
Very Young, 6 Years Old, Committee Reserve
ABV 58.9%
Comments: A swaggering young dude.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Bruichladdich Bruichladdich
Legacy Series One, 1965
ABV 41.8%
Comments: Does Starbucks know about this?
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Glenmorangie Glenmorangie
Burgundy Wood Finish
ABV 43.0%
Comments: Decent balance means the finish isn't dominating. Just a bit blowsy?
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Blackadder Blackadder
Mortlach
1989
ABV 60.5%
Comments: Enjoyable, with an appropriate touch of earthy rawness, but not as statuesque as this elegant whisky can be.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Glenfiddich Glenfiddich
21 Years Old, Millennium Reserve
ABV 43.0%
Comments: A charming, almost shy malt that must be drunk at full strength to appreciate its guile and complexity.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
The Macallan
Exceptional Single Cask
ABV 59.3%
Comments: Delicate, light and simple.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
The Glenlivet The Glenlivet
Archive, 21 Years Old
ABV 0.0%
Comments: A first-class malt, but I would like a little more structure and style.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
The Dalmore The Dalmore
Aged 21 Years
ABV 43.0%
Comments: An assertive character, with a pleasant crisp feel on the palate. The dram to take on long forest walk. Invigorating.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Springbank Springbank
12 Years Old, Rum Wood
ABV 54.6%
Comments: More rounded and elegant than the earlier, 10 Years Old rum cask. I enjoy the Springbank rum cask whiskies very much, though not at the expense of the more traditional expressions.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Signatory
Caol Ila
1989, Cask Strength
ABV 58.3%
Comments: The more typical of the two 1989 versions. For me, classic Caol Ila, with a touch of peat, noses ahead of the fruitier, more sensuous, expression.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Signatory
Bowmore
1975, Cask Strength
ABV 51.8%
Comments: Has mellowed with age. I missed the more assertively maritime characteristics in some younger Bowmores.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Port Ellen
1979, 22 Years Old
ABV 56.2%
Comments: From a sadly silent still: a great malt that is too good to chill, but wonderful with smoked salmon or scallops. Or, deservedly, caviar. You serve vodka? Shame on you!
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Lombard Lombard
Springbank
1991
ABV 50.0%
Comments: Jumps and bites. This is the young Springbank, not yet the mature sophisticate.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Signatory Signatory
The Glenrothes
1968, 32 Years Old
ABV 50.5%
Comments: Less soft than the younger expression. A drier, more robust, expression.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Adelphi Adelphi
Teaninich
31 Years Old
ABV 57.8%
Comments: Like a maiden aunt. It's hard to believe that after 31 years in cask it's still this strength!
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Glenmorangie
Côte de Beaune
ABV 46.0%
Comments: As the glass sits on my desk, aromas and flavours slowly emerge, I like it more and more, but I suspect it will always be overshadowed by last year's Côte de Nuits.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Glenfiddich Glenfiddich
1967, Vintage Reserve
ABV 43.0%
Comments: Delicious but rare. Every bottle has already been sold.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Longrow Longrow
10 Years Old
ABV 46.0%
Comments: A beautifully composed whisky. Classic intense, Scottish flavours.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Aberlour Aberlour
1976
ABV 43.0%
Comments: A pleasant and well-measured oldie without blemish but perhaps lacking complexity before the excellent finale.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Glenkinchie Glenkinchie
1986, Distiller's Edition, Amontillado Cask Finish
ABV 43.0%
Comments: As a relatively restrained whisky, Glenkinchie stands up well to the amontillado finish.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
The Glenlivet
1972 Vintage
ABV 54.3%
Comments: A big whisky which shows not all Speysiders are shrinking violets. Beautifully weighted throughout; breathtaking complexity.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
The Glenlivet The Glenlivet
1969 Vintage
ABV 52.8%
Comments: A little woody.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Rare Malts Selection
Caol Ila
1977, 20 Years Old
ABV 61.3%
Comments: A big malt, but carrying little of the magic that sets Port Ellen apart in this group. A stark reminder of what Islay has lost.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Glenfiddich Glenfiddich
18 Years Old, Ancient Reserve
ABV 43.0%
Comments: A wonderfully elegant whisky.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Rare Malts Selection
Glenury Royal
28 Years Old
ABV 58.4%
Comments: An elegant middleweight after the oak-fisted heavyweight 23 Years Old in the same series.
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Caol Ila
15 Years Old
ABV 43.0%
Comments: A wonderful aperitif. Smoked fish to follow?
OVERALL SCORE
8.3
Westland Westland
Garryana 5th Edition
ABV 50.0%
Comments: Reminds me of the charred ends of a slow roasted ham, a delightful mix of sweet and spice.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Three Ships Three Ships
Single Malt Aged 12 Years
ABV 46.3%
Comments: Gorgeous sweet pork fats and cured meats balanced with a sweet and creamy mouthfeel. Delicious.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Connoisseurs Choice Connoisseurs Choice
Tomatin
Tomatin 1997
ABV 46.0%
Comments: A delightful whisky full of spice and sweetness. For me, I would hang on to this until Summer is slowly slipping away.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Lady of the Glen Lady of the Glen
Linkwood
PX Octave #87A/2006, Batch 2
ABV 59.9%
Comments: Really quite lovely once that ABV is backed off.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Glenfiddich Glenfiddich
Reserva Rum Cask, 21 Years Old
ABV 40.0%
Comments: Good solid stuff with some well balanced sweet notes.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Nikka Single Cask Nikka Single Cask
1990, 18 Years Old
ABV 57.0%
Comments: Has a lovely pooling effect on the palate.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Nikka Single Cask Nikka Single Cask
Coffey Grain, 1992, 16 Years Old
ABV 57.0%
Comments: A very high quality grain.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Celtique Connexion Celtique Connexion
Affinage Armagnac, 1990, 18 Years Old
ABV 46.0%
Comments: An edible Archimboldo painting! Delicious. To enjoy like a pudding.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Master of Malt Master of Malt
Littlemill
1991, 21 Years Old
ABV 52.4%
Comments: This is a beautiful example of the delicacy and subtlety you can find in a Lowland whisky – I love this.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Arran Arran
10 Years Old
ABV 46.0%
Comments: Like an afternoon at a cake sale, all cakes and biscuits and jam. Comforting and a little bit unchallenging.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Sullivans Cove Sullivans Cove
American Oak Single Cask
ABV 47.4%
Comments: Making an Old Fashioned in a greenhouse with tomatoes ripening.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Fercullen Fercullen
14 Years Old
ABV 46.0%
Comments: One for the sweet-toothed, and possibly an excellent chaser after a pint of stout.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Glenmorangie Glenmorangie
The Cadboll
ABV 43.0%
Comments: A very sensible, conservative whisky, but charming indeed.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Loch Lomond Loch Lomond
Inchmoan, Aged 12 Years
ABV 46.0%
Comments: Felt like there was a disconnect with the nose and palate, but it all came together really well in the end. Decent stuff.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Mortlach Mortlach
Special Strength
ABV 49.0%
Comments: A great dram, one for the hills and a hipflask. Warming and delightful.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
The GlenDronach The GlenDronach
Grandeur, Aged 25 Years, Batch 9
ABV 48.7%
Comments: An interesting mixed bag of a whisky, with lovely integration of flavours.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Berry Bros. & Rudd Berry Bros. & Rudd
Speyside
1995, 21 Years Old
ABV 46.0%
Comments: Some dram! Balances wood and sweetness perfectly.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
The GlenDronach The GlenDronach
Kingsman Edition
ABV 48.2%
Comments: Promising nose, but this was a bit of an anticlimax.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
The GlenDronach The GlenDronach
Single Cask Batch 14, 26 Years Old
ABV 54.8%
Comments: Satisfying. leather and chocolate notes balanced by tropical flavours.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Loch Lomond Loch Lomond
12 Years Old
ABV 46.0%
Comments: Something of a hot firecracker of a whisky. Interestingly, the addition of water ramps up the smokiness on both the nose and palate
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Glenmorangie Glenmorangie
The Tarlogan
ABV 43.0%
Comments: The palate disappoints slightly after a promising nose.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Langatun Langatun
Old Deer Cask Proof
ABV 62.1%
Comments: This one is just too sour for me.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Littlemill Littlemill
2015 Private Cellar Edition
ABV 50.4%
Comments: Lovely and balanced, warming and honeyed.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Hyde Hyde
10 Years Old, Rum Cask Finish
ABV 46.0%
Comments: This is more like a Scotch than an Irish whiskey. A boxer in ballet shoes.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Smögen Svensk Smögen Svensk
2011 Fresh Sauternes Barrique, Single Cask 7
ABV 57.3%
Comments: I’m not sure the distillery matters here, as there is so much cask influence. Could have done with tasting the actual spirit character.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
The Glenlivet The Glenlivet
Master Distiller's Reserve
ABV 40.0%
Comments: Straightforward, easy-drinking Glenlivet at a fair price.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Balblair Balblair
2004 Bourbon Matured
ABV 46.0%
Comments: Classic American oak-matured Bablair. Lack of chill-filtration and enhanced ABV really suit the brand.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
That Boutique-y Whisky Company That Boutique-y Whisky Company
Bruichladdich
Batch 2
ABV 52.7%
Comments: Sweetness balanced out by that hint of struck matches and something savoury.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Balblair Balblair
Highland Single Malt 1999 Vintage
ABV 46.0%
Comments: A gentle personality and a crowd pleaser.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
The Single Malts of Scotland The Single Malts of Scotland
Clynelish
1995, 18 Years Old
ABV 57.5%
Comments: A corker, this one, lots of super-fruits vibes. The sort of dram I can see becoming a cult classic with people who love that fresh fruit vibe. Wonderful.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Glenmorangie Glenmorangie
Companta
ABV 46.0%
Comments: Robust and palate coating. Another contemplative dram.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Mackmyra Mackmyra
Moment Morgondagg
ABV 51.1%
Comments: Hard to pin this one down. One moment, it's all Kentucky's finest. Next it wants to head to Jerez. I'm intrigued...
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Jura Jura
Turas Mara
ABV 42.0%
Comments: Perfectly in balance with so much fruit it's untrue.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Abbey Whisky Abbey Whisky
Bunnahabhain
Aged 23 Years
ABV 44.0%
Comments: Shy at first but revealing pleasant fruity flavours.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Wemyss Malts
Glen Garioch
1989, Fruit Bonbons
ABV 46.0%
Comments: Lovely stuff, perfect for this time of year. Refreshing.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
The Yamazaki The Yamazaki
Sherry Cask
ABV 48.0%
Comments: A bit of a sherry bomb, with a clear sweet side.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Balcones Balcones
True Blue
ABV 63.6%
Comments: Seems to have a rum influence. A finish? No it is a corn American whiskey? I wouldn't have guessed. A rich aromatic profile and a pleasantly surprising alcohol mastering.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Duncan Taylor Dimensions Duncan Taylor Dimensions
Linkwood
1986, 25 years old
ABV 47.2%
Comments: A good example of Bourbon cask maturation (a refill ?). There is a constant bitterness but it is quite refreshing, like a grapefruit. A few drops of water bring out a sweet note.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Master of Malt Master of Malt
Secret Bottlings Series
50 Years Old
ABV 40.0%
Comments: Lovely nose but not fully backed up on the tongue. In cask just too long.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Clan Denny Clan Denny
Port Dundas
1978, 34 Years Old
ABV 58.6%
Comments: A sweet character on the nose. The alcohol bite is still vivid on the palate. Water tends to enhance bitterness.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
The Glenrothes The Glenrothes
1998
ABV 43.0%
Comments: And an outstanding example of another.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Benromach Benromach
10 Years Old
ABV 43.0%
Comments: A well-structured dram with character and delicacy. Very refreshing. A perfect Speysider to recommend.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Glenfarclas Glenfarclas
40 Years Old
ABV 46.0%
Comments: Fantastic nose, but loses it on the palate.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Auchroisk Auchroisk
1997 20 Years Old
ABV 58.1%
Comments: Good to see Auchroisk finally getting a bottling which does it justice.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Glenglassaugh Glenglassaugh
Manager's Legacy Release No. 4 Walter Grant
ABV 40.4%
Comments: An old sherry character. Wood has taken the lead but in a rich and deep expression. Don't miss nosing the empty glass.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Glenglassaugh Glenglassaugh
35 Years Old, 1976 Vintage
ABV 52.3%
Comments: The nose and palate are very different. Slighty dour on the palate. A firm character though.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Auchentoshan Auchentoshan
Valinch 2011
ABV 57.5%
Comments: Another excellent marker on the upward trajectory of Auchie.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Ardbeg Ardbeg
Corryvreckan, Committee Reserve
ABV 57.1%
Comments: A rough lad. Hides behind the smoke. The fruit does not come through,and the alcohol is not mastered enough.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Glenkinchie Glenkinchie
20 Years Old
ABV 58.4%
Comments: A very substantial dram.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Talisker Talisker
25 Years Old, Special Release 2007
ABV 58.1%
Comments: A well balanced dram. With a sweet profile.Has well aged.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Yoichi Yoichi
1987, Single Malt
ABV 43.0%
Comments: A bit too broad shouldered. Does not seem to mellow with water. Some nice sides though.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Cotswolds Cotswolds
Hearts & Crafts Sauternes Cask
ABV 55.2%
Comments: A nice balance of that sweet fruit and savoury.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Eternity Scotch Whisky Eternity Scotch Whisky
Eternity Prince Reserve
ABV 40.0%
Comments: Could almost mistake this for a Bourbon at first, but then becomes unmistakably Scotch.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Virginia Distillery Co. Virginia Distillery Co.
Courage & Conviction American Single Malt
ABV 46.0%
Comments: Like sucking on sherbet lemons while sitting in an orchard.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Highland Park Highland Park
21 Years Old
ABV 46.0%
Comments: Feisty and excitable yet well balanced. A winner for fans of a chocolate and chilli combination.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Fettercairn Fettercairn
12 Years Old Pedro Ximénez Sherry Cask Edition
ABV 40.0%
Comments: Plenty going on despite coming in at just 40% ABV. This is nicely put together.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Highland Park Highland Park
Viking Scars, 10 Years Old
ABV 40.0%
Comments: A very morish Spring dram with lots of layers to add to the drinking pleasure.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Celtique Connexion Celtique Connexion
Affinage Armagnac, 1990, 18 Years Old
ABV 46.0%
Comments: Rich in fruit obviously but the influence of sauternes cask does not seem as obvious as with the previous sample. The raisins note is more present on the nose.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
The Whisky Shop The Whisky Shop
Millburn
1976, 25 Years Old
ABV 58.9%
Comments: One for the collectors. Nonetheless, I wish Millburn had continued to be a distillery, rather than turning into a steakhouse.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Malts of Scotland Malts of Scotland
Caol Ila
1998, 10 Years Old
ABV 60.9%
Comments: A fascinating, exotic, Caol Ila and all the better for being relatively young.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
The Singleton of Glendullan The Singleton of Glendullan
Liberty
ABV 40.0%
Comments: Exceptionally smooth and easy to drink – a real ‘reach for the bottle’ dram.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Old Pulteney Old Pulteney
Navigator
ABV 46.0%
Comments: I didn’t see this one coming but I really like the influence of the Navigator.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Amrut Amrut
Kadhambam
ABV 50.0%
Comments: It perplexed me as the nose was so inviting but I felt the flavour was at odds with itself.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Royal Lochnagar Royal Lochnagar
Friends of the Classic Malts
ABV 48.0%
Comments: This whisky is rather grumpy at start but on time, it reveals a richer profile. Classic malty character.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Aberlour Aberlour
Aged 15 Years, Double Cask
ABV 40.0%
Comments: Easily drowned with water. The standard 15 Years Old is stunning, but this just seems gawky and awkward. There are so many Aberlour variants on the market - I'm getting mightily confused.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Glenfiddich Glenfiddich
30 Years Old
ABV 40.0%
Comments: Luxurious, but in a restrained, understated way.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Auchentoshan Auchentoshan
Three Wood
ABV 40.0%
Comments: As warm and welcoming as a real Glasgow kiss.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Brora Brora
30 Years Old
ABV 55.7%
Comments: A big beast, but the butiric knocks its score down.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Glen Moray Glen Moray
Classic
ABV 40.0%
Comments: I had not realised Glen Moray could be so sensuous.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Dewar Rattray Dewar Rattray
Craigellachie
Aged 15 Years
ABV 54.9%
Comments: A model of balance and elegance. A first class Speysider.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Berrys' Own Selection Berrys' Own Selection
Inchgower
1980
ABV 46.0%
Comments: Cracking whisky led by an intense relationship with its sherry cask.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Yoichi Yoichi
No Age Statement
ABV 43.0%
Comments: Not Yoichi at its most full-blooded and a little gawky but worth a look.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
The Balvenie The Balvenie
Tun 1401, Batch 2
ABV 50.6%
Comments: Wood speaks up. In an elegant way though.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
The Temple Bar The Temple Bar
15 Years Old
ABV 40.0%
Comments: A good solid whiskey with those intriguing and interesting rum-like notes playing on the nose and palate.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
The Glenlivet The Glenlivet
Captain's Reserve
ABV 40.0%
Comments: Sweetness runs rampant without much of a foil. Not bad for it though.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Highland Park Highland Park
The Light, 17 Years Old
ABV 52.9%
Comments: Lovely balance and the high ABV doesn’t interfere with play. A lovely drop.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Mortlach Mortlach
18 Years Old
ABV 43.4%
Comments: Decent integration, just lacked a little something.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
The GlenDronach The GlenDronach
2006 Cask #1979, 11 Years Old
ABV 57.2%
Comments: Big boned and takes water to release sweet notes.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Mackmyra Mackmyra
Expedition
ABV 46.1%
Comments: That nose was something quite exotic; the taste not so.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
The GlenDronach The GlenDronach
25 Years Old Grandeur
ABV 50.3%
Comments: Rich, complex and rewarding.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Glen Scotia Glen Scotia
Victoriana
ABV 51.5%
Comments: Very drinkable at high strength. Intriguing!
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Glenglassaugh Glenglassaugh
Octaves Classic
ABV 44.0%
Comments: Not quite sure what to make of this. Fruity yet herbal. An odd experiment.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
anCnoc anCnoc
Blas
ABV 54.0%
Comments: A very easy drinking whisky, once water is added. In summary, Summery.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
The Glenrothes The Glenrothes
Minister's Reserve
ABV 43.0%
Comments: Rounded, confident and complex. Old Glenrothes in top form.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Craigellachie Craigellachie
17 Years Old
ABV 46.0%
Comments: The flavour is a pleasant follow up from the nose, sadly falling a little short on the finish. Enjoyable nonetheless.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
The Glenlivet The Glenlivet
Nàdurra First Fill Selection
ABV 59.8%
Comments: Nice and sweetie like. Lots of candy shoppe flavours but not overly complex or supremely exciting. Just pleasant.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
That Boutique-y Whisky Company That Boutique-y Whisky Company
Aberlour
Batch 3
ABV 49.2%
Comments: A bit simple but pleasantly bracing.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Smokehead Smokehead
Rock Edition
ABV 43.0%
Comments: I would have liked to have seen this bottled at 46% or 50% as it would have given the palate more intensity.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
The GlenDronach The GlenDronach
1994, Aged 20 Years
ABV 54.8%
Comments: Pure, clean, natural sherry character.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
anCnoc anCnoc
Distilled 2000
ABV 46.0%
Comments: A lovely mouthfeel lifted with a tangy bite.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Wemyss Malts Wemyss Malts
Bowmore
1982, Loch Indaal Catch
ABV 46.0%
Comments: Something different here. The flavours are unusual. The structure is perhaps not well balanced. A young whisky? Special finish? I am not sure.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
The English Whisky Company The English Whisky Company
Distiller's Elect
ABV 46.0%
Comments: Sweetness and light, this is well matured and well rounded and highly entertaining. Summery? Yes. But well worth sipping in the other three seasons as well.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Dewar Rattray Dewar Rattray
Stronachie
10 Years Old
ABV 43.0%
Comments: f you like honey, this dram is yours. Well-balanced, with a good spicy dryness to counterbalance the honey sweetness.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Wemyss Malts Wemyss Malts
Macduff
2002, Lead on Macduff
ABV 46.0%
Comments: Pleasant and refreshing.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Talisker Talisker
Storm
ABV 45.0%
Comments: Talisker sailing off the shore, taking more oak on board with it.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Master of Malt Master of Malt
The Glenturret, 34 Years Old
ABV 47.9%
Comments: A nicely rounded whisky.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Glenfarclas The Family Casks Glenfarclas The Family Casks
Release X, 1997
ABV 58.8%
Comments: Takes its time to open but well worth it.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Isle of Jura Isle of Jura
30 Years Old
ABV 44.0%
Comments: Classic good sherry maturation. Nothing to complain about.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Scott's Selection Scott's Selection
The Macallan
1989, 23 Years Old
ABV 50.0%
Comments: An easy whisky to get on with, to relax with. All is in balance.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Glenglassaugh Glenglassaugh
Revival
ABV 46.0%
Comments: Though clearly still coming together, this is a marker of real quality.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
The Scotch Malt Whisky Society The Scotch Malt Whisky Society
Mannochmore
64.15 – 15 Years Old
ABV 57.1%
Comments: A whisky that will keep you interested all evening and well into the night.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
The Glenronach The Glenronach
Allardice 18 Years Old
ABV 46.0%
Comments: A port finish? The port or sherry influence is patent. It has conveyed a lot of sweetness, maybe too much. Alongside with oakiness (but a sweet one,nothing astringent).
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Highland Park Highland Park
1994
ABV 40.0%
Comments: For those with a sweeter palate.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
The BenRiach The BenRiach
Solstice 15 Years Old
ABV 50.0%
Comments: Unusual tawny colour indicating a port finish, which has certainly imparted sweetness to that peaty character. Water brings out dryness.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
The Balvenie The Balvenie
17 Years Old Peated
ABV 41.9%
Comments: A good well balanced whisky. Peat is integrated with the oak and spices.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Highland Park Highland Park
St Magnus
ABV 55.0%
Comments: Quite muscular but well structured. For a wintery day.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Berrys' Own Selection Berrys' Own Selection
Glen Grant
1972, 37 Years Old
ABV 51.8%
Comments: A perfect example of well balanced oak and fruit which shows off layers of flavour.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Tomintoul Tomintoul
1976 Vintage
ABV 40.0%
Comments: A big initial impact then a slow gentle falling away.Worth a look.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Berrys' Own Selection Berrys' Own Selection
Bowmore
1996
ABV 46.0%
Comments: Judging by the colour (pale chardonnay),has obviously not gained from the cask. Has got all the phenolic spectrum but not much more,especially on the nose.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Compass Box Compass Box
Canto Cask
Cask No 6, 10 Years Old
ABV 53.1%
Comments: A sharp fellow. Strangely enough, appears spirity although the same strength as the previous sample.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Dewar Rattray Cask Collection Dewar Rattray Cask Collection
The Glenlivet
1977, 29 Years Old
ABV 47.2%
Comments: Glenlivet fans won't be disappointed.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Gordon & MacPhail Private Collection Gordon & MacPhail Private Collection
Imperial
1990, Cognac Finish
ABV 40.0%
Comments: Cognac finishes seem to have achieved results that are, at best, mixed. In this instance, the contribution is less than obvious.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Old Potrero
Single Malt
ABV 62.1%
Comments: Despite the 'Old', a new rye. The idea was to get closer to what the first American ryes might have been. I like the idea. Wins points for all-rye character and assertiveness.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Dewar Rattray Dewar Rattray
Aultmore
16 Years Old
ABV 57.9%
Comments: An old fellow on the oak side but with elegancy.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
The Glenlivet The Glenlivet
XXV
ABV 43.0%
Comments: Just needs a little more in the middle.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Port Ellen Port Ellen
6th Release, Aged 27 Years
ABV 54.2%
Comments: Takes no prisoners.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Tyrconnell Tyrconnell
Aged 10 Years, Madeira Finish
ABV 46.0%
Comments: Well put together, the finish not too obtrusive.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Berrys' Own Selection Berrys' Own Selection
Inchgower
1974
ABV 46.0%
Comments: A great wee aperitif. Fresh and fun.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
The Cooper's Choice The Cooper's Choice
1990, 16 Years Old, Sherry Cask
ABV 46.0%
Comments: Yup, it's Mortlach alright. Every bit as good as the OB.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Dewar Rattray
Bowmore
1990, 16 Years Old
ABV 54.0%
Comments: Has richness and some finesse.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Dewar Rattray
Highland Park
24 Years Old, Single Cask
ABV 52.3%
Comments: Decent enough, and the palate is lovely, but somehow you expect more after 24 years in the cask.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Douglas Laing
Port Ellen
25 Years Old
ABV 50.0%
Comments: Somehow, fails to progress into anything really characterful.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Nikka Key Malt Nikka Key Malt
Yoichi, Aged 12 Years, Woody & Vanillic
ABV 55.0%
Comments: Flawless, sweet, dry, deep, light, smoke, flowers, cream, toasty oak. Elegant.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Nikka Key Malt Nikka Key Malt
Yoichi, Aged 12 Years, Peaty & Salty
ABV 55.0%
Comments: An interesting combination of fruit and peat. They don't mingle, they keep playing hide and seek. More complexity than it appears. Water makes it caressing.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Ichiro's Malt Ichiro's Malt
1988, Vintage Single Malt
ABV 56.0%
Comments: A pungent character. Warm phenolic and uncompromising but hiding a pleasant cereal sweetness. The alcoholic strength is somewhat burning though. Water helps but does not cut all the sharp edges.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Celtique Connexion Celtique Connexion
1990, Cadillac Wood Finish
ABV 43.0%
Comments: A comprehensive digestif, combining the benefits of an afterdinner chocolate, a coffee and a whisky.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Glenfarclas Glenfarclas
17 Years Old
ABV 43.0%
Comments: A bunch of interesting flavours displayed in an elegant oak frame.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Dewar Rattray Dewar Rattray
Bowmore
1990, 15 Years Old
ABV 55.7%
Comments: Straightforward and uncompromising. Very good balance. The classic Islay outdoor dram for simple enjoyment.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Dewar Rattray Dewar Rattray
Bunnahabhain
1977, 27 Years Old
ABV 49.9%
Comments: Not as elegant and complex as some in this flight, but the breakfast it evoked was hearty and delicious.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Berrys' Own Selection Berrys' Own Selection
The Glenlivet
1972
ABV 46.0%
Comments: Fruit-driven with spice and oak extending the spectrum and adding gravitas.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
The Cooper's Choice
Caol Ila
1992, 13 Years Old
ABV 46.0%
Comments: This is good, but seems to still be building in complexity. If there's any of this batch left...keep 'em in cask for a few more years.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Glenfarclas Glenfarclas
1955
ABV 44.6%
Comments: A fantastic dram. Overlook this at your peril.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Chivas Brothers Chivas Brothers
Glenallachie
1989, 15 Years Old, Cask Strength Edition
ABV 58.0%
Comments: Well balanced, just decays a little over time in the glass.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Glenmorangie Glenmorangie
Artisan Cask
ABV 46.0%
Comments: A malt to make peace with the whole world. Soothing, graceful, satisfying.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Speciality Drinks Speciality Drinks
Highland Park
36 Years Old, Cask 10252
ABV 49.7%
Comments: The oak has enveloped what was there before.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Scapa Scapa
Aged 14 Years
ABV 40.0%
Comments: Fantastic balance. One for sweet-toothed drinkers.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
The Whisky Fair The Whisky Fair
Springbank
1975, Aged 29 Years, Bottled for The Whisky Fair
ABV 49.2%
Comments: Astonishingly citric.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Glenfiddich Glenfiddich
1991 Vintage Reserve, Don Ramsey – The Head Cooper
ABV 40.0%
Comments: Gentle. Accessible. Enjoyable.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
The Arran Malt The Arran Malt
Marsala Finish
ABV 56.9%
Comments: A well balanced 'finish'. Marsala suits it well.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Glenmorangie Glenmorangie
1995, Artisan Cask
ABV 45.0%
Comments: This is a substantially richer style of Glenmorangie, but not overwhelmingly sweet. The balancing spices and herbs are all present and correct.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Douglas Laing
Bowmore
Aged 20 Years
ABV 50.0%
Comments: Confusing. Lightness of nose is contradicted by strident palate. It promises a lot but doesn't deliver.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
The Macallan The Macallan
18 Years Old, Fine Oak
ABV 0.0%
Comments: A lovely, elegant yet large whisky. Why would you ever use sherry wood?
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Gordon & MacPhail Gordon & MacPhail
The Glenlivet
George & J.G. Smith's Rare Vintage, 1974
ABV 40.0%
Comments: Somewhat lifeless and one-dimensional. Not the best old Glenlivet I've tasted.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Glen Garioch Glen Garioch
1979, Aged 24 Years
ABV 52.1%
Comments: A great nose, but let down on the palate.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Arran First Arran First
1995, Limited Edition
ABV 46.0%
Comments: Arran's coming of age - and it's doing so impressively.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Chivas Brothers Chivas Brothers
Longmorn
1986, Aged 17 Years, Cask Strength
ABV 58.2%
Comments: Maybe not as balanced as the classic 15 year-old. But who would turn one's nose up to a Longmorn? So rare, so satisfying. Yummy.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Strathisla
12 Years Old
ABV 43.0%
Comments: A malt that dares to be truly oaky. Thank heavens for boldness and individuality in a world where blandness is always an easier option. This beautiful old distillery is Chivas' showpiece, but it is more than a pretty face.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Old Malt Cask
Laphroaig
1987, Aged 16 Years
ABV 50.0%
Comments: Good balance between sweet/soft and dry/peat.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
The Cooper's Choice
1974
ABV 46.0%
Comments: All the classic flavour elements. With its character "freshness", Aberfeldy often shines at younger ages. Here it excels in middle age.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
The Cooper's Choice
1975, 27 Years Old
ABV 46.0%
Comments: Complex, as Longmorn always is, but I wonder about the cask.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
The Cooper's Choice
1972, 30 Years Old
ABV 46.0%
Comments: The cask overwhelms things slightly.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
The Balvenie The Balvenie
Aged 25 Years, Single Barrel
ABV 46.9%
Comments: Seemed a little lighter all round than I remember.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Murray McDavid Mission II Murray McDavid Mission II
Glen Grant
1969, 34 Years Old
ABV 46.0%
Comments: This delicate malt in unusually full flavour.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
The Scotch Malt Whisky Society
Hakushu
120.1 – Iced caramels and madeira cake, 1981, Aged 21 Years
ABV 60.7%
Comments: A lot of oak on the nose, but has good balance.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
The Scotch Malt Whisky Society
The Yamazaki
119.5 – Fresh plums dipped in caramel, 1991, Aged 11 Years
ABV 62.2%
Comments: Saves all the action for the finish. Very appetising.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
The Scotch Malt Whisky Society
The Yamazaki
119.1 – Prunes and mentholated teak oil, 1980, 22 Years Old, White Oak Cask
ABV 50.9%
Comments: A little bigger, but slightly duller than 119. 2.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
The Glenlivet The Glenlivet
1983, Cellar Collection French Oak Finish
ABV 46.0%
Comments: Balances sweet and savoury. Next time though make it unchillfiltered!
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Hakushu
1988 Bourbon Cask
ABV 61.0%
Comments: Lean, limber and characteristically smoky. A clear sense of Hakushu malt without heavy wood influence.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Bunnahabhain Bunnahabhain
1963
ABV 42.9%
Comments: Another cracker from the vaults. Burn Stewart must be rubbing their hands with glee.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Murray McDavid Mission Murray McDavid Mission
Clynelish
1972
ABV 46.0%
Comments: Typical Clynelish in its texture but a smokier than usual example.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
The Whisky Shop The Whisky Shop
Port Ellen
1978, 24 Years Old, Sherry Butt
ABV 46.0%
Comments: Needs more input from the cask. Still, another great selection for TWS.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Bruichladdich Bruichladdich
Legacy Series One, 1966, Aged 36 Years
ABV 40.6%
Comments: A cracker.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Old Malt Cask
Laphroaig
1985, Aged 17 Years
ABV 50.0%
Comments: A good example that harks back to the cask strength 10 Years Old but with extra weight (and tarry smoke!).
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Knockdhu Knockdhu
23 Years Old, Cask Strength
ABV 57.4%
Comments: A classic friendly Speyside, well balanced and enjoying its maturity.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Bushmills Bushmills
21 Years Old
ABV 40.0%
Comments: It's balanced but it lacks the vibrancy of the 16 Years Old.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Bunnahabhain Bunnahabhain
1968, The Family Silver Vintage Reserve
ABV 40.0%
Comments: Another example of an aged malt that, for all its obvious charm and class, has been just a tad too much oak. A delicious experience, nonetheless.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Nikka Nikka
Tsuru
ABV 43.0%
Comments: Gentle and beautifully structured.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
The Balvenie
15 Years Old
ABV 50.4%
Comments: A subtle expression of The Balvenie.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
The Yamazaki The Yamazaki
Aged 18 Years
ABV 43.0%
Comments: Surprisingly, water tones the oaky flavours down, bringing out more malty sweetness. Quite a self-indulgent dram.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
The Scotch Malt Whisky Society The Scotch Malt Whisky Society
Yoichi
116.4 – 13 Years Old
ABV 64.9%
Comments: A lot to it. Everything has knitted together well.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
The Scotch Malt Whisky Society The Scotch Malt Whisky Society
Yoichi
116.1 – 16 Years Old
ABV 56.6%
Comments: A sweet cask and a firm spirit more or less in harmony.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
The Macallan The Macallan
10 Years Old
ABV 40.0%
Comments: Good strong spirit that's in balance with the wood. Young but beginning to hit its stride.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Lombard
Springbank
1965
ABV 46.0%
Comments: Robust, but lacks the delicacy and structure of the best Springbanks.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Lombard Lombard
Highland Park
1989
ABV 50.0%
Comments: Vivacious but no great depth.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Connoisseur's Choice
Ardbeg
1990
ABV 40.0%
Comments: All of Ardbeg and some more. Uncompromising.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
The Glenturret The Glenturret
18 Years Old
ABV 40.0%
Comments: A thought-provoking, complex and enjoyable whisky.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Glen Moray Glen Moray
1974, Distillery Manager's Choice
ABV 53.4%
Comments: Rounded and elegant, this is one hell of a dram from a hell of a manager.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Glenfarclas Glenfarclas
12 Years Old
ABV 43.0%
Comments: A powerful bugger and a great introduction to the distillery style, but you feel you'd get much more in a couple of years.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Blackadder
Caol Ila
1990
ABV 58.5%
Comments: Young, easygoing, vibrant. Absolutely unfiltered judging by charcoal particles in the sample.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Adelphi Adelphi
Highland Park
16 Years Old
ABV 57.9%
Comments: This bottling does not have the heathery profile of the official bottlings. Drink with water.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Aberlour Aberlour
Vintage 1990 Edition
ABV 40.0%
Comments: On this occasion the vintage bottling had the most typical Aberlour character, especially in its spiciness. I also enjoyed its liveliness and complexity. The best Aberlour on the day.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Aberlour Aberlour
12 Years Old, Sherry Cask
ABV 40.0%
Comments: Good for such a young Aberlour. Sherry in balance.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Kingsbury Kingsbury
Tamdhu
1966
ABV 43.0%
Comments: A welcome bottling of this neglected malt, and an interesting example.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Kingsbury Kingsbury
Glen Albyn
1965
ABV 49.1%
Comments: No distillery deserves to be knocked down to accommodate a strip mall, but Glen Albyn just did not have the muscle to defend itself (as Tom Wait might have put it).
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Rare Malts Selection
Bladnoch
1977, 23 Years Old
ABV 53.6%
Comments: Rather aggressive for a malt that is usually delicate and sweet, but still very distinctive. Will stand softening with a good splash of water.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
The Speyside Millennium The Speyside Millennium
2000
ABV 0.0%
Comments: A fine malt, with great character for its relative youth. Greater ages are eagerly awaited.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Signatory Signatory
Tullibardine
1973
ABV 49.6%
Comments: Rounder than a previous Signatory bottling at 1972.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Connoisseurs Choice Connoisseurs Choice
Aberfeldy
1978
ABV 40.0%
Comments: Delicate but not bland. Real subtlety. Very mature, but not a hint of wood. A Highlander, but blindfold I would have placed it as a Speysider.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Glenmorangie Glenmorangie
15 Years Old
ABV 40.0%
Comments: If you like the classic flavours of the 10 Years Old but find it a bit light, this range-filler is for you.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Auchentoshan Auchentoshan
Three Wood
ABV 40.0%
Comments: A classic of its type.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
The Glenrothes The Glenrothes
1987, 13 Years Old
ABV 40.0%
Comments: A well-sculpted malt with a restrained richness and limited complexity. Lovely weight throughout.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Glen Moray Glen Moray
16 Years Old, Chenin Blanc Finish
ABV 40.0%
Comments: Greater dimensions than the original 16 Years Old.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Rare Malts Selection
1979, 22 Years Old
ABV 61.0%
Comments: Good but not quite balanced.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
The MacPhail's Collection The MacPhail's Collection
Distilled 2000 from Glenturret Distillery
ABV 43.0%
Comments: A delightful Highland number with some gorgeous herby and fruity notes working their way through.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Talisker Talisker
25 Years Old
ABV 54.2%
Comments: Is this really Talisker? Not bad at all, but a surprise all the same.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Lady of the Glen Lady of the Glen
PX Octave Tamdu
ABV 61.0%
Comments: A few drops help balance it out and shows its true colours.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Lombard Jewels of Scotland Lombard Jewels of Scotland
Deanston
1996
ABV 52.5%
Comments: Like eating honey sandwiches on the beach.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Berry Bros. & Rudd Berry Bros. & Rudd
Speyside
1995, 21 Years Old
ABV 57.0%
Comments: It feels like there’s a lot of this type of whisky about at the moment.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Tomatin Tomatin
Five Virtues Fire Edition
ABV 46.0%
Comments: The dryness of the palate balances out that creamy vanilla nicely.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
The Glendronach The Glendronach
Single Cask Batch 14, Aged 13 Years
ABV 52.5%
Comments: Lots going on in this whisky that runs hot and cold.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
The Glenturret The Glenturret
Sherry Edition
ABV 43.0%
Comments: Whisky-making from the past, but not long aged. Not for everyone, but a yes from me!
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
That Boutique-y Whisky Company That Boutique-y Whisky Company
The Arran Malt
Batch 1
ABV 49.1%
Comments: A lovely restorative dram, nice stuff, well put together.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Glenmorangie Glenmorangie
Ealanta 19 Years Old
ABV 46.0%
Comments: Less complexity on the palate, but the nose can pop round for a visit anytime it likes.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Abbey Whisky Abbey Whisky
Caperdonich
Aged 17 Years
ABV 57.8%
Comments: A delightful elegant dram. Water opens so many layers.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Glenfarclas The Family Casks Glenfarclas The Family Casks
Release IX, 1995, 16 Years Old
ABV 52.5%
Comments: The alcohol and wood are well mastered and integrated.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Miyagikyo Miyagikyo
1986, 22 Years Old, Single Cask
ABV 63.0%
Comments: Needs to be treated with respect,but very satisfying.
OVERALL SCORE
8.2
Gordon & MacPhail
18 Years Old
ABV 40.0%
Comments: The best Benromach I have tasted. I wonder what she should expect in a few years from the new stillhouse.
OVERALL SCORE
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