Bimber 

Ex-Bourbon Small Batch 002

ABV 52.2%

Comments: A fresh and engaging drop indeed, perfect as a palate livener before dinner.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Tomatin  Tomatin 

2006, 13 Years Old Fino UK Exclusive

ABV 56.0%

Comments: An easy-going whisky with some lovely nutty notes, I can see it becoming moreish.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Glengoyne  Glengoyne 

21 Years Old

ABV 43.0%

Comments: Well worth sitting back and enjoying. Give it a little time in the glass.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Rampur  Rampur 

Double Cask

ABV 45.0%

Comments: A wonderfully mad mix of things, but certainly one to put with spicy food and see what happens.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Wambrechies  Wambrechies 

8 Years Old, Single Malt

ABV 40.0%

Comments: A well knitted whisky. With a good malty presence on the nose as on the palate. Interesting.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 P&M  P&M 

Pure Malt Whisky

ABV 42.0%

Comments: An unusual aromatic profile (when compared to Scottish single malt) with a character of its own. Well balanced and deeply rooted in Corsica nature.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Dewar Rattray Cask Collection  Dewar Rattray Cask Collection 

Highland Park 

1992, 16 Years Old

ABV 52.5%

Comments: Pleasant and pleasing.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Miyagikyou  Miyagikyou 

10 Years Old

ABV 45.0%

Comments: Very fruity and delightful.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Tullibardine  Tullibardine 

1993, Sauternes Finish

ABV 46.0%

Comments: A rich character which does not seem to allow the sauternes cask leave its sweet print. It shows through with water however. Broad, complex and enjoyable.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 The Yamazaki  The Yamazaki 

Bourbon Cask, 1993

ABV 59.0%

Comments: Lots happening. Lively. Enjoyable.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 The Glenturret  The Glenturret 

15 Years Old

ABV 55.3%

Comments: The balance is just tipping in favour of the cask. Glad this was bottled now.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 The Cooper's Choice  The Cooper's Choice 

The Glenlivet 

1975, 32 Years Old

ABV 46.0%

Comments: Somehow manages to be light in character but deep in weight.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Speciality Drinks  Speciality Drinks 

Elements of Islay 

Ar2 (Ardbeg)

ABV 60.5%

Comments: Obviously a mariner.Getting a bit grumpy on the palate.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Berrys' Own Selection  Berrys' Own Selection 

Cragganmore 

1997

ABV 58.6%

Comments: A charming “whispering” whisky. Perfect to greet springtime. Needs a few drops of water to sooth down the alcohol bite.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Dewar Rattray  Dewar Rattray 

Cragganmore 

1997, 12 Years Old

ABV 46.0%

Comments: The low aromatics knock it down but has real palate presence.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Duncan Taylor Dimensions  Duncan Taylor Dimensions 

Tormore 

2005, 8 Years Old

ABV 52.1%

Comments: I think the age explains the chameleon character but I enjoyed its cheekiness.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 The Glenrothes  The Glenrothes 

Elder’s Reserve

ABV 43.0%

Comments: Better with time, this is a dram full of energy and life, but little immature on the palate.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Master of Malt  Master of Malt 

Glen Moray 

1991, 21 Years Old

ABV 60.7%

Comments: A sassy dram and very assured of itself – delicious aperitif.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

  Bushmills 

Aged 12 Years, Distillery Reserve

ABV 40.0%

Comments: Cleaner than of old but no less characterful. Quite a cerebral whisky.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Jura  Jura 

Aged 16 Years

ABV 40.0%

Comments: A delicious and sophisticated dram with impressive depth and almost perfect weight.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Glengoyne  Glengoyne 

17 Years Old

ABV 43.0%

Comments: A lovely, complex, sophisticated malt.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Talisker  Talisker 

10 Years Old

ABV 45.8%

Comments: Elemental. Another classic...

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Linkwood  Linkwood 

12 Years Old

ABV 43.0%

Comments: Linkwood always evokes thoughts of sweetmeats. This one seems a particularly sweet interpetation.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Isle of Jura  Isle of Jura 

Aged 21 Years

ABV 40.0%

Comments: A good sipping dram that's not too demanding but has good weight and a supple body.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Caol Ila  Caol Ila 

18 Years Old

ABV 43.0%

Comments: Dry, crisp and mature with more of a contribution from the cask (not OTT though).

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 The Yamazaki  The Yamazaki 

Aged 12 Years

ABV 43.0%

Comments: A session whisky which is better on the palate than the nose.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Karuizawa  Karuizawa 

17 Years Old

ABV 40.0%

Comments: A superb balance and richness. Luscious bouquet, satisfying and flavoursome.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Karuizawa  Karuizawa 

17 Years Old

ABV 40.0%

Comments: Pleasant as a 'dessert whisky', but lacks complexity.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Isle of Jura  Isle of Jura 

Superstition, Aged 10 Years

ABV 45.0%

Comments: It is good to have a more muscular Jura, but I find this a bit too smooth. I would prefer something less sophisticated and more sexy. Must be the size of those paps.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Hakushu  Hakushu 

18 Years Old

ABV 43.0%

Comments: A colourful character, lively and dancing on nose and palate.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 The English  The English 

Small Batch Release, Virgin Oak

ABV 46.0%

Comments: A mixed spice bag of a whisky, intriguing stuff though.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Bushmills  Bushmills 

Distillery Exclusive, Triple Distilled

ABV 47.0%

Comments: Packs a decent punch at this ABV and the finish is quite something.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Mackmyra  Mackmyra 

10 Years Old

ABV 46.1%

Comments: Well-made spirit at the core, but a little unremarkable.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Glen Moray  Glen Moray 

Mastery

ABV 52.3%

Comments: Fun little number, stylish – not 100 per cent convinced on the substance.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Gordon & MacPhail Discovery  Gordon & MacPhail Discovery 

Balblair 

12 Years Old

ABV 43.0%

Comments: Really sweet. Feels like you are waiting for a spice kick but it just keeps delivering sweetness.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Lombard Jewels of Scotland  Lombard Jewels of Scotland 

Royal Lochnagar 

Single Cask

ABV 57.3%

Comments: Fun, big boned and water really helps it show its true colours though.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Berry Bros. & Rudd  Berry Bros. & Rudd 

Glenlossie 

1992, 23 Years Old, Cask #3473

ABV 46.0%

Comments: I’ll have mine straight up please, bartender.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Balblair  Balblair 

Vintage 2005

ABV 46.0%

Comments: Slather this on a scone with some strawberry jam.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 The Arran Malt  The Arran Malt 

18 Years Old

ABV 46.0%

Comments: An oddly balanced whisky which works on some levels but not on others.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Highland Park  Highland Park 

Harald

ABV 40.0%

Comments: Getting close to what we expect our Highland Parks to be.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Glen Garioch  Glen Garioch 

15 Years Old

ABV 53.7%

Comments: A confident, well-rounded cask strength expression from an often underrated distillery.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Hellyers Road  Hellyers Road 

10 Years Old

ABV 46.2%

Comments: The nose is more expressive than the palate. A delicate sweetness.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Wemyss Malts  Wemyss Malts 

Bunnahabhain 

1997, Billowing Embers

ABV 46.0%

Comments: The cask was obviously not active. Not unpleasant but a bit basic. Might be refreshing with ice on a hot (Islay?) day.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Glenfarclas The Family Casks  Glenfarclas The Family Casks 

Release X, 1957

ABV 43.7%

Comments: On one hand, I admire how one-dimensional this is, but it isn't going to be for everyone.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Scott's Selection  Scott's Selection 

Inchmurrin 

1997

ABV 55.3%

Comments: Big and bold but that alcohol needs taming to get the best out of it

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Glenfarclas The Family Casks  Glenfarclas The Family Casks 

Release IX, 1993, 18 Years Old

ABV 58.7%

Comments: Needs a drop of water to open it up.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Glenfarclas The Family Casks  Glenfarclas The Family Casks 

Release IX, 1965, 46 Years Old

ABV 53.7%

Comments: This whisky has certainly lost its balance. You have got to like oaky whiskies. I miss the distillery character.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Bowmore  Bowmore 

Small Batch Reserve

ABV 40.0%

Comments: Strangely demanding as you try to extract what is there.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Duncan Taylor Dimensions  Duncan Taylor Dimensions 

Mortlach 

1989, 22 Years Old

ABV 52.1%

Comments: A good example of mature Mortlach character without the close attentions of oak.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Glen Garioch  Glen Garioch 

1971

ABV 43.3%

Comments: A fascinating, fluxing dram that hides its power under a charming exterior.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 The Single Malts of Scotland  The Single Malts of Scotland 

Ardmore 

1993, 19 Years Old

ABV 49.3%

Comments: Ardmore shows its gentle side. When will people discover this distillery?

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Glenfarclas The Family Casks  Glenfarclas The Family Casks 

Release III, 1952, 55 Years Old, Cask No. 1713, Plain Hogshead

ABV 47.3%

Comments: A tired cask ? An unusual taste. There is a dour note in this whisky which is not attractive but the salty flavour is appetising. I am puzzled!

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Eddu  Eddu 

Silver

ABV 40.0%

Comments: A pleasantly balanced whisky. Appetising,with an apple character.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Glenglassaugh  Glenglassaugh 

26 Years Old

ABV 46.0%

Comments: Has a certain louche charm to it.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Woodford Reserve  Woodford Reserve 

Master's Collection, Maple Wood Finish

ABV 47.2%

Comments: An old bourbon? Oak masks the sour fruit. Chestnut. A few years less and it would have been flamboyant.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Caol Ila  Caol Ila 

1997 12 Years Old

ABV 57.6%

Comments: All very poised and pleasant, but apart from its unusual provenance (an unpeated Caol Ila) not exceptional.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Tullibardine  Tullibardine 

Aged Oak Edition

ABV 40.0%

Comments: A well structured dram. Oakier on the palate than on the nose.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Scott's Selection  Scott's Selection 

Tomatin 

1988, 23 Years Old

ABV 50.6%

Comments: A restorative dram for those quiet, reflective moments

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 The Scotch Malt Whisky Society  The Scotch Malt Whisky Society 

Ardmore 

66.27 – Foodie Dram

ABV 52.3%

Comments: The nose is richer than the palate. Seems a bit uncoordinated,like a young untamed horse.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Wemyss Malts  Wemyss Malts 

1999, Well Mannered Mint

ABV 46.0%

Comments: Could be the perfect wake up for campers drenched to the skin on a Summer's day on the west coast of Scotland!

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Glenfiddich  Glenfiddich 

Snow Phoenix

ABV 47.6%

Comments: A pleasant dram, well structured and satisfying.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Bowmore  Bowmore 

29 Years Old, 1981

ABV 49.6%

Comments: That perfume problem that bedevils old MBD malts knocks this back.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Glenfarclas  Glenfarclas 

8 Years Old

ABV 40.0%

Comments: A very pleasant dram. Don't expect complexity but savour your pleasure. And get the apple-pie out of the oven!

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Pittyvaich  Pittyvaich 

20 Years Old

ABV 57.5%

Comments: That whisky definitely needs water to cut the edges. Incredibly oily. With a good dash of water, refreshing and invigorating.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Mannochmore  Mannochmore 

18 Years Old

ABV 54.9%

Comments: The nose lets you expect more sweetness. Oak is overwhelming on the palate.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Auld Reekie  Auld Reekie 

10 Years Old

ABV 46.0%

Comments: An invigorating dram balanced with a friendly smoothness. Open the oysters.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Auchentoshan  Auchentoshan 

12 Years old

ABV 40.0%

Comments: Well put together.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Glenfarclas The Family Casks  Glenfarclas The Family Casks 

Release II, 1952, 54 Years Old, Cask No. 1710

ABV 41.9%

Comments: From the nose to the palate,we know that we are in front of a very old whisky. The nose is superb but the wood signature is too assertive on the palate.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 The Glenlivet  The Glenlivet 

The Coopers Choice Single Cask Selection

ABV 46.0%

Comments: Somehow manages to be light in character but deep in weight.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 

 

Old Pulteney 

21 Years old

ABV 46.0%

Comments: A two times dram. Fruity sweetness followed by a dry spiciness. The two faces meet up on time.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Dewar Rattray Cask Collection  Dewar Rattray Cask Collection 

Cooley 

1992, 15 Years Old

ABV 58.9%

Comments: A rich nose and a somewhat restrained palate with an assertive oak print,which the high strength amplifies. But an elegant dryness.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Laphroaig  Laphroaig 

25 Years Old

ABV 40.0%

Comments: Oak dominates but still allows other notes to express themselves. There is a touch if stiffness which annoys me in this dram. But the peat one can expect from a Laphroaig is hidden.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Springbank  Springbank 

Rum Wood, 16 Years Old

ABV 54.2%

Comments: Almost as if it is still coming together.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Dewar Rattray  Dewar Rattray 

Glen Spey 

11 Years Old

ABV 59.0%

Comments: It's a cad pursuing an innocent girl. The big bad wolf after little Red Riding Hood.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Connemara  Connemara 

Peated Single Malt

ABV 40.0%

Comments: There's real substance here. Well-integrated.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Ichiro's Malt  Ichiro's Malt 

Three of Diamonds

ABV 56.0%

Comments: Lacks balance. Alcohol is quite fierce. Water tames it down but needs to be strictly dosed as it enhances bitterness. Some character but quite sharp.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Caol Ila  Caol Ila 

8 Years Old, Unpeated

ABV 59.8%

Comments: A straightforward example of a bourbon cask maturation. A bit burning on the tongue for me but some like hot, don't they?

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Tyrconnell  Tyrconnell 

Aged 10 Years, Port Finish

ABV 46.0%

Comments: This just balances the whiskey and the finish.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Old Malt Cask  Old Malt Cask 

Lochnagar 

Aged 33 Years

ABV 57.2%

Comments: A heavy old malt which seemed a bit flabby in places.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Old Malt Cask  Old Malt Cask 

Laphroaig 

Aged 18 Years

ABV 50.0%

Comments: Intensely flavoured, but while it shouted very loud I didn't necessarily enjoy everything it had to say.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Berrys' Own Selection  Berrys' Own Selection 

Glencadam 

1973

ABV 46.0%

Comments: A ripe dram which seems to have headed across to Kentucky. Big and lush.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Berrys' Own Selection  Berrys' Own Selection 

Longmorn 

1988

ABV 46.0%

Comments: Well balanced. A real wee sweetie.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Chieftain's  Chieftain's 

Laphroaig 

Aged 12 Years

ABV 46.0%

Comments: A good, clean Laphroaig. Not exceptional, but true to character.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Edradour  Edradour 

Ballechin 

# 1 Burgundy Matured

ABV 46.0%

Comments: It is young and showing great promise. Keep watching this with interest.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Oban  Oban 

14 Years Old

ABV 43.0%

Comments: Classic, gentle and pleasing. A consensual malt. Good match with salmon and light seafood dishes.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 The BenRiach  The BenRiach 

Aged 15 Years, Dark Rum Wood Finish

ABV 46.0%

Comments: Works pretty well. Rum in a supporting role, putting a different spin on the whisky.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

  The BenRiach 

Pedro Ximinez Sherry Wood Finish

ABV 46.0%

Comments: A cheery dram, opening up on the sunny side with the definite rum colours on the nose. A dash of water sweetens the palate.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Berrys' Own Selection  Berrys' Own Selection 

The Glenlivet 

1974

ABV 46.0%

Comments: Very elegant and balanced on the nose. Oak tends to show off but the dram keeps its charm though.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Hazelburn  Hazelburn 

Aged 8 Years

ABV 46.0%

Comments: An ideal first dram of the day, and a good example of how younger malt can offer a livelier, fat texture in the mouth.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 The Glenrothes  The Glenrothes 

1994

ABV 43.0%

Comments: A full-on, after dinner style and a bold, characterful spirit.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

  James MacArthur's Old Masters 

1988, 18 Years Old

ABV 53.9%

Comments: Elements of many of the flavour groups creates a balanced, Highland-style malt.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Gordon & MacPhail  Gordon & MacPhail 

Glenugie 

1968, 43 Years Old

ABV 43.0%

Comments: Oak is not as prevailing on the nose as on the palate. An exotic profile. Reminds me of Irish whiskey. Interesting richness. Avoid water.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Douglas Laing  Douglas Laing 

Rosebank 

15 Years Old

ABV 50.0%

Comments: Uninspiring nose more than compensated for by challenging and surprising palate. Appetising.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Convalmore  Convalmore 

28 Years Old, Cask Strength

ABV 57.9%

Comments: A lot going on in this whisky; can't help thinking about a Mint Julep, though.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Ichiro's Malt  Ichiro's Malt 

1985, Ace of Spades

ABV 55.0%

Comments: If you like your whisky in yer face then this is for you.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Milford  Milford 

Aged 15 Years

ABV 43.0%

Comments: At least this has some depth.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Glenkeir Treasures  Glenkeir Treasures 

12 Years Old

ABV 40.0%

Comments: A slightly uneasy balance between cereal, fruit and oak. Do not water.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Gordon & MacPhail  Gordon & MacPhail 

1990, Cask Strength

ABV 55.8%

Comments: Jim Beam, will you PLEASE do what Allied failed to and release Ardmore as a single malt? It's criminal this distillery isn't better known.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Kirin  Kirin 

18 Years Old

ABV 43.0%

Comments: Japanese whisky is frequently surprising and rarely disappointing. This whacky, outside the box, example is no exception.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Craigellachie Hotel of Speyside  Craigellachie Hotel of Speyside 

The BenRiach 

1976 (bottled for Craigellachie Hotel)

ABV 57.6%

Comments: Rich and viscous and packed with flavour. Develops some elegance with water.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Berrys' Own Selection  Berrys' Own Selection 

Bladnoch 

1992

ABV 46.0%

Comments: So subtle it's barely there, but an intriguing mystery.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Bruichladdich  Bruichladdich 

Aged 20 Years, 'Islands' Third Edition

ABV 46.0%

Comments: Old and gentle with a broad smile.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Tullibardine  Tullibardine 

1993, Marsala Wood Finish

ABV 46.0%

Comments: A lovely dram. Fresh, natural, cheery. The perfect companion for a cheese party. Preferably undiluted.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

  The Dalmore 

1973, Cabernet Sauvignon Finish

ABV 53.0%

Comments: A charming old lady with her pockets full of candies. Who can resist?

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Rare Malts Selection  Rare Malts Selection 

Aged 28 Years, Cask Strength

ABV 51.9%

Comments: A straight-ahead, fruity, creamy, Speysider.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Glen Moray  Glen Moray 

20 Years Old

ABV 54.5%

Comments: Bonus points for knowing its own mind.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Chivas Brothers  Chivas Brothers 

Caperdonich 

1988, 16 Years Old, Cask Strength Edition

ABV 55.8%

Comments: Promises more than it delivers. Try it with sweet Turkish coffee or espresso.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Gordon & MacPhail  Gordon & MacPhail 

Miltonduff 

1993

ABV 61.8%

Comments: Has a punchy refreshing quality. Worth a look.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Clynelish  Clynelish 

14 Years Old

ABV 46.0%

Comments: A lovely dram. Well balanced. Water cuts the edges off. Peaceful.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Dun Bheagan  Dun Bheagan 

Convalmore 

1975, Aged 28 Years

ABV 46.0%

Comments: Better on nose than palate where it's just tipping over into the woody stage. Good though.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Gordon & MacPhail  Gordon & MacPhail 

The Glenlivet 

1973

ABV 55.9%

Comments: Has maturity and some elegance.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 The Vintage House  The Vintage House 

The Macallan 

Aged 16 Years, Burgundy Finish

ABV 56.1%

Comments: Fair balance.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Connoisseurs Choice  Connoisseurs Choice 

The BenRiach 

1981

ABV 43.0%

Comments: The bourbon cask influence is obvious. A refreshing dram but simplistic. Water ruins it.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 The Glenlivet  The Glenlivet 

Cellar Collection, 1964

ABV 45.1%

Comments: After that sensuous aroma, the palate is subtle to the point of reticence. Still interesting.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 The Cooper's Choice  The Cooper's Choice 

Caol Ila 

1990, 14 Years Old

ABV 46.0%

Comments: A middleweight Islay malt.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 The Arran Malt  The Arran Malt

ABV 43.0%

Comments: A subtle yet characterful malt. Sweetness is teased up by dry spices. Beautiful structure. The proof that you can be young and accomplished.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Tomintoul  Tomintoul 

27 Years Old

ABV 40.0%

Comments: An extra layer of maturity. Sweet and ripe but holding age pretty well.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

  James MacArthur's Old Masters 

Bladnoch 

1992, 12 Years Old

ABV 56.1%

Comments: Quite assertive for Bladnoch. Not keen on the papery character. Quality of wood?

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 The Arran Malt  The Arran Malt 

Rum Cask

ABV 58.5%

Comments: Extremely accomplished whisky. Isle of Arran continues to impress.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Dewar Rattray Cask Collection  Dewar Rattray Cask Collection 

Longmorn 

1990, Aged 14 Years

ABV 55.3%

Comments: More about feel than flavour. Seems pent up.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Nikka Miyagikyo  Nikka Miyagikyo 

10 Years Old

ABV 45.0%

Comments: Just beginning to pick up complexity. Try this distillery at 12 or 15! World class.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Glen Moray  Glen Moray 

12 Years Old

ABV 40.0%

Comments: Creamy soft and easy to drink. A good everyday drinker.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 The Cask of Yamazaki  The Cask of Yamazaki 

1993, Bourbon Cask

ABV 59.0%

Comments: A fascinating package with unlikely flavour combinations. Barmen will love this.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Rare Malts Selection  Rare Malts Selection 

Benrinnes 

Aged 21 Years

ABV 60.4%

Comments: Soft yet savoury. Mortlach's little brother and a forgotten classic.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 The Cooper's Choice  The Cooper's Choice 

Clynelish 

1990, 12 Years Old, Port Finish

ABV 46.0%

Comments: Gentle and well-balanced.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Murray McDavid Mission  Murray McDavid Mission 

Dallas Dhu 

1979

ABV 46.0%

Comments: This take a LONG time to open, but is worth it when it does.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

  Douglas Laing 

Dallas Dhu 

24 Years Old

ABV 50.0%

Comments: Much more herbal than other bottlings of Dallas Dhu.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 The McGibbon's Provenance  The McGibbon's Provenance 

The Arran Malt 

Aged 8 Years

ABV 46.0%

Comments: The rich oak and gentle distillery character in balance. The right time to bottle.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Celtique Connexion  Celtique Connexion 

Clonmel 

Aged 8 Years, Peated

ABV 40.0%

Comments: Another smoky whiskey is always welcome, but I think I may have tasted this under another name.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Chieftain's  Chieftain's 

Springbank 

Aged 35 Years, Single Cask Sherry Butt

ABV 54.2%

Comments: Big and rich, but where's the whisky?

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Rare Malts Selection  Rare Malts Selection 

Auchroisk 

1974, Aged 28 Years

ABV 56.8%

Comments: Delightful nose, palate pretty firm.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 The Arran Malt  The Arran Malt 

Calvados Cask

ABV 62.1%

Comments: Balanced. Arran is becoming pretty impressive.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

  Cadenhead's Authentic Collection 

Clynelish 

Aged 14 Years

ABV 57.6%

Comments: I love Clynelish to bits but this was almost too much even for me.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

  Hakushu 

1982 Sherry Cask

ABV 61.0%

Comments: A fine example of European oak in action.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

  Gordon & MacPhail 

Linkwood 

1972

ABV 40.0%

Comments: Hard to find Linkwood delicacy and elegance in this version. Probably not from outstanding sherry casks.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Murray McDavid Mission  Murray McDavid Mission 

Royal Brackla 

1975

ABV 46.0%

Comments: An especially rich sherryish bottling. Voluptuous. With the afterdinner chocs.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 The Macallan  The Macallan 

Elegancia

ABV 40.0%

Comments: A (deliberately) lighter style of Macallan. Wonder how the purists will take it?

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Glenkinchie  Glenkinchie 

1989 Distiller's Edition

ABV 43.0%

Comments: Glenkinchie was always robust for a lowlander, and this expression is more so. Again, it works: the typical grassy sweetness brought out by a touch of sherry.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 The Cask of Yamazaki  The Cask of Yamazaki 

1981, Sherry Cask

ABV 61.0%

Comments: An elegant, beautifully balanced whisky.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Wilson & Morgan  Wilson & Morgan 

The Macallan 

1990, Marsala Finish

ABV 46.0%

Comments: It doesn't quite hang together, but hits the mouth in three totally separate sections. I can understand the underlying idea, it just hasn't been pulled off.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 The Dalmore  The Dalmore 

Cigar Malt Reserve

ABV 43.0%

Comments: It's fine, but only suitable for a lighter stogie. Not a patch on the old version I'm afraid.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 The Scotch Malt Whisky Society  The Scotch Malt Whisky Society 

The Macallan 

24.48 – 11 Years Old

ABV 57.8%

Comments: It is always interesting to taste a Macallan that is less sherried than usual. This one could have been rounder.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

  The Scotch Malt Whisky Society 

The Glenlivet 

2.35 – 24 Years Old

ABV 61.0%

Comments: Full-on but distillery character is obliterated

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

  Signatory 

The Glenrothes 

1990

ABV 46.0%

Comments: Good, but not as good as the distillery bottlings.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

  Cadenhead's 

Royal Brackla 

15 Years Old

ABV 58.2%

Comments: Hardly elegant but a muscular malt of a style that is sadly vanishing from the Highlands. I greatly enjoyed it.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Royal Brackla  Royal Brackla 

10 Years Old

ABV 43.0%

Comments: A pleasant malt, but this bottling has less structure than I remember. It is to be hoped that new owners Dewar's give more prominence to this distillery.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Montgomerie's  Montgomerie's 

The Macallan 

1989 Single Cask

ABV 46.0%

Comments: This is Macallan?? Either a peated experiment at the distillery or it's been filled into an ex-Caol Ila cask.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Mannochmore  Mannochmore 

Aged 12 Years

ABV 43.0%

Comments: A lovely sweet, frothy, summery dram.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

  Magilligan 

8 Years Old, Irish Peated Malt

ABV 43.0%

Comments: A lovely, clean, malty, easily drinkable, whisky. The label promises peat, but that is hard to find.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

  Mackillop's Choice 

Caol Ila 

1989, Cask 3322

ABV 57.7%

Comments: If Caol Ila can evoke the aroma and flavour of junipers, perhaps it can also suggest olive oil, vine leaves, couscous, baked aubergines. I have had great martinis in Tangier. Next time, a Caol Ila Sour?

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

  Lombard 

Glen Grant 

1964

ABV 46.0%

Comments: Interesting and while not overly woody (given its age) one for sherried malt lovers only.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Hart Brothers  Hart Brothers 

Glen Grant 

1972, 29 Years Old, Sherrywood

ABV 53.6%

Comments: Glen Grant was one of the first malts to be bottled as a single malt, in the days when light-tasting spirits were often filled into heavy sherry casks. I have always felt that this overwhelms the spirit. This example is better balanced than most.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 The Glenturret  The Glenturret 

15 Years Old

ABV 40.0%

Comments: This must have been a very fresh cask, as the woody tannins are very prevalent for one so young.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

  Classic Malts 

Glenkinchie Special Edition, Friends of the Classic Malts

ABV 58.7%

Comments: Bigger and more robust than you might expect.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

  Chieftain's 

Clynelish 

Aged 13 Years

ABV 46.0%

Comments: So different to the Douglas Laing Clynelish. The perfect whisky with farm cheeses.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

  Chieftain's 

Bladnoch 

Aged 18 Years, Sherry Wood

ABV 46.0%

Comments: A distinguished expression of sweet Oloroso, even if it seems a bit ostentatious on the palate. For afterdinner enjoyment.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Cadenhead's  Cadenhead's 

Lammerlaw 

10 Years Old

ABV 49.1%

Comments: This bottling is much more aggressive, and drying, than I remember. What happened to the soft maltiness and apricot fruitiness?

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

  Cadenhead's 

Bladnoch 

1989, 12 Years Old

ABV 56.3%

Comments: A neat, summery comforter. Perfect dram for hillwalkers.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Blackadder  Blackadder 

Bowmore 

1989

ABV 63.3%

Comments: A solid Bowmore that's lighter than the distillery bottlings.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Adelphi  Adelphi 

Tullibardine 

35 Years Old, Cask 2112

ABV 54.6%

Comments: Tullibardine is a gentle, civilised, malt that seems to live in obscurity. Nice to be reminded of its existence. Could be a golfers dram - the distillery is near Gleneagles.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Milford  Milford 

Aged 10 Years

ABV 43.0%

Comments: A good combination of fruit and oak. Wood is well integrated. Quite a moreish dram.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

  The Yamazaki 

1991, Bourbon Cask

ABV 60.0%

Comments: An interesting interplay of flavours. Comes to rather an abrupt halt.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Adelphi  Adelphi 

Bruichladdich 

30 Years Old

ABV 49.4%

Comments: Don't look for a big array of flavours: just variations on a theme, and most of them quite lovely.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Isle of Jura  Isle of Jura 

Aged 16 Years

ABV 40.0%

Comments: A very restorative and comforting dram.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

  Adelphi Suir 

Peated Malt

ABV 40.0%

Comments: Intriguing combination of flavours. Sweet meets peat.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 

 

Adelphi 

Clynelish 

11 Years Old

ABV 59.8%

Comments: I normally rate Clynelish very highly, but this bottling leaves its fireworks until the last minute, and with more heat than light.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Glencoe  Glencoe 

8 Years Old

ABV 58.0%

Comments: A vatted malt that has comprehensively changed shape in the last year.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Glengoyne  Glengoyne 

17 Years Old

ABV 43.0%

Comments: Quite a complex character for its age. The palate is well-structured, just a little too woodframed.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 The Cooper's Choice  The Cooper's Choice 

Clynelish 

1983, 16 Years Old

ABV 43.0%

Comments: A simple amazingly clean dram that belies its years.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Balblair  Balblair 

Aged 16 Years

ABV 40.0%

Comments: An attractive character. Too much sweetness on the palate though.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Bowmore  Bowmore 

Surf, 25 Years Old

ABV 43.0%

Comments: A fine introduction to peated Islays and a good session malt.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Springbank  Springbank 

Aged 10 Years

ABV 40.0%

Comments: The nose is lighter and more subtle than the palate. A dash of water tones down the flavours. Disappointing.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 anCnoc  anCnoc 

13 Years Old, Limited Edition Highland Selection

ABV 46.0%

Comments: A pale, shimmery gold dram with flavours one expects from a bigger, darker, whisky. Slightly odd, but enjoyable. Could be a flavoured spirit from a little-known, newly independent republic in Central Asia.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Armorik  Armorik 

Yeun Elez Jobic

ABV 46.0%

Comments: A belter of a smoky whisky.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Glenfiddich  Glenfiddich 

Cask Collection, Reserve Cask

ABV 40.0%

Comments: It is great to see three such individual characters and I enjoyed them all on their own merit. I would love to see this one at a slightly higher strength.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Westland  Westland 

Sherry Wood

ABV 46.0%

Comments: Something left field but worth engaging with.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Penderyn  Penderyn 

Portwood

ABV 46.0%

Comments: Pinot Noir and chocolate brownies? A winning combination for me.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 anCnoc  anCnoc 

Cutter

ABV 46.0%

Comments: Probably matured in second fill bourbon casks. Not complex but refreshing.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Aberfeldy  Aberfeldy 

Ramble Single Cask

ABV 56.0%

Comments: This whisky needs water to cut the sharp edges! But water tends to enhance bitterness. The nose is more attractive than the palate for me.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Speciality Drinks  Speciality Drinks 

Elements of Islay 

Br4 (Bruichladdich)

ABV 54.7%

Comments: Easy and refreshing. Probably young. It needs a small dash of water to cut the edges. An invigorating dram on a wintery day.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Berrys' Own Selection  Berrys' Own Selection 

Bowmore 

2003, 8 Years Old, Cask #20059

ABV 57.9%

Comments: Another 'herbal tea'

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 The Glenrothes  The Glenrothes 

Vintage 16 Years Old, 1995

ABV 43.0%

Comments: Drinkable enough, but marked down for its 'fousty' nose.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Midleton  Midleton 

1996, Single Cask

ABV 46.0%

Comments: A fruity springtime whiskey, which needs time to reveal itself. Interesting though.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Master of Malt  Master of Malt 

Highland Park, 13 Years Old

ABV 56.0%

Comments: Refreshing and well balanced. The nose promises more than it delivers on the palate. I have never come across such a phenolic HP.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Brora  Brora 

30 Years Old

ABV 52.4%

Comments: This is better than other Brora's I have tried. Balanced and poised.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 The Glendronach  The Glendronach 

20 Years Old Tawny Port

ABV 46.0%

Comments: Again complex and involved but in this case, confusing.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Tobermory  Tobermory 

15 Years Old

ABV 46.3%

Comments: Honest and well made.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Highland Park  Highland Park 

Cask Strength

ABV 63.3%

Comments: Once you tame the ABV beast there is a lovely soul hiding in here, full of sweetness and spice.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Cù Bòcan  Cù Bòcan 

Signature, North American Casks

ABV 46.0%

Comments: A full-on outdoor dram that will warm the cockles, whether you are on the hills or hanging out in the potting shed.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Tullibardine  Tullibardine 

Aged 15 Years

ABV 43.0%

Comments: Really just missing a full-on chocolate edge; then you would have s’mores contained in a bottle.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Benromach  Benromach 

15 Years Old

ABV 43.0%

Comments: One for trying cold from the fridge; well, why not? It has some lovely sherry edges to it.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Starward  Starward 

Nova, Matured in Red Wine Barrels

ABV 41.0%

Comments: Feels and tastes pretty decadent.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Duncan Taylor Rare Auld  Duncan Taylor Rare Auld 

Caol Ila 

1981, 27 Years Old, C2932

ABV 53.8%

Comments: Caol Ila, but with all the smoke machine turned off.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Speciality Drinks  Speciality Drinks 

Port Askaig 

25 Years Old

ABV 45.8%

Comments: Underwhelming.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Cadenhead's Duthies  Cadenhead's Duthies 

Glen Grant 

13 Years Old

ABV 46.0%

Comments: Decent.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Malts of Scotland  Malts of Scotland 

Bunnahabhain 

1976, 32 Years Old

ABV 52.0%

Comments: Lots of cask influence but it is balanced. Recommended.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Duncan Taylor Dimensions  Duncan Taylor Dimensions 

Longmorn 

1996, 17 Years Old

ABV 52.6%

Comments: A fine example of a dram that hides it light under a bushel.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Glen Garioch  Glen Garioch 

1999, 14 Years Old

ABV 56.3%

Comments: It’s a big bear hug of a whisky for those sherry lovers.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Signatory Vintage  Signatory Vintage 

Ledaig 

2010, 8 Years Old

ABV 60.0%

Comments: Creosoting a fence on a hot day, eating pickled onions and burnt bacon.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 The GlenDronach  The GlenDronach 

Forgue, Aged 10 Years

ABV 43.0%

Comments: Good solid stuff, once it breathes it starts to release all of its layers.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 anCnoc  anCnoc 

peatheart

ABV 46.0%

Comments: Dominated by the oak and the spice notes get a little lost. A drop of water sweetens things up nicely.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Lady of the Glen  Lady of the Glen 

10 Years Old

ABV 61.3%

Comments: A delightful single malt, something for the hip flask and the hills. Will certainly keep you warm.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 The Maltman  The Maltman 

The Macallan 

20 Years Old

ABV 50.7%

Comments: Takes the best aspects of the other two Macallans and magnifies them.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 James Eadie  James Eadie 

8 Years Old, Single Cask #309429

ABV 46.0%

Comments: My sweet tooth really loves the chocolaty sweetness, but this is balanced perfectly by the spicy dryness.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Tomatin  Tomatin 

15 Years Old, American Oak Casks

ABV 46.0%

Comments: Perfectly sound, but lacks much development.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Highland Park  Highland Park 

Svein

ABV 40.0%

Comments: Quite an easy-drinking, relatively lightweight Highland Park.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Master of Malt  Master of Malt 

Bruichladdich, 12 Years Old

ABV 57.3%

Comments: Interesting and surprising to say the least. An unusual combination which I’m enjoying trying to get my head around though would happily indulge in trying to understand it further.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Aultmore  Aultmore 

21 Years Old

ABV 46.0%

Comments: Surprised the flavour did not follow up as expected on the intriguing nose, yet there is something which keeps me coming back for more.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Old Pulteney  Old Pulteney 

1990 Vintage

ABV 46.0%

Comments: I expected a sweeter character. Oak tends to overwhelm in an assertive way. Tamed with a dash of water though, this whisky is pleasantly brisk.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Ardbeg  Ardbeg 

Kildalton

ABV 46.0%

Comments: An invigorating dram, well balanced. With a pleasant spicy outburst. Water brings out sweetness.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Bowmore  Bowmore 

Laimrig

ABV 53.7%

Comments: Covers a lot of bases, but maintains balance. The Quantum Leap of whisky; let's hope it's next leap is into my glass.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 That Boutique-y Whisky Company  That Boutique-y Whisky Company 

Allt-a-Bhainne 

Batch 1

ABV 49.2%

Comments: A little lightweight, but not without its fruity merits.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 That Boutique-y Whisky Company  That Boutique-y Whisky Company 

Batch 1

ABV 51.5%

Comments: Quite an unusual taste. Fresh and surprisingly sweet.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Tomintoul  Tomintoul 

1977, Vintage Sherry Cask

ABV 54.9%

Comments: Fairly lightweight, with a couple of decent Tapas-influenced twists.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Wemyss Malts  Wemyss Malts 

Linkwood 

1991, Apple Pastry

ABV 46.0%

Comments: Nothing wrong with this, perhaps a little dry for my tastes, but has some interesting top notes to explore.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Tomintoul  Tomintoul 

Single Sherry Cask

ABV 54.9%

Comments: A great well looked after dram, a venerable age but still show some freshness.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Speciality Drinks  Speciality Drinks 

Port Askaig 

Cask Strength, 19 Years Old

ABV 50.4%

Comments: That whisky needs a dash of water to find its balance. Refreshing, you would have expected more complexity from the age but not unpleasant.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Master of Malt  Master of Malt 

Bally Delicious

ABV 54.0%

Comments: An interesting floral character but not a wide aromatic palate.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Pearse Lyons  Pearse Lyons 

Reserve

ABV 40.0%

Comments: Nothing out of the ordinary and certainly not intent on pulling the palate in any particular direction.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Glenfarclas The Family Casks  Glenfarclas The Family Casks 

Release X, 1963

ABV 46.5%

Comments: A venerable whisky but the oak is showing signs of taking over command.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Glenfarclas The Family Casks  Glenfarclas The Family Casks 

Release X, 1963

ABV 46.5%

Comments: A venerable whisky but the oak is showing signs of taking command.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Glenfarclas  Glenfarclas 

18 Years Old

ABV 43.0%

Comments: A hard one to work out as it does not give much away.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Tomatin  Tomatin 

Tempranillo & Bourbon Matured 15 Years Old

ABV 52.0%

Comments: Well put together, but that nose does not belie what the palate delivers.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Bowmore  Bowmore 

Springtide

ABV 50.0%

Comments: The nose is sweeter than the palate. A strong character.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Bruichladdich  Bruichladdich 

The Organic

ABV 46.0%

Comments: Good to have samples from The Laddie again and showing it is clearly in fine form.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Glenfarclas  Glenfarclas 

1981 Plain Hogshead

ABV 50.8%

Comments: Perfect 'herbal malt-tea'

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 The Scotch Malt Whisky Society  The Scotch Malt Whisky Society 

Ardbeg 

33.70 – Keith Richards meets Socrates, 1998, 10 Years Old

ABV 57.3%

Comments: The nose is enticing but the palate does not follow.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 The Glenronach  The Glenronach 

Original 12 Years Old

ABV 43.0%

Comments: Decent dram but seems a tad dolled up.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Cadenhead's Duthies  Cadenhead's Duthies 

Glen Grant 

13 Years Old

ABV 46.0%

Comments: Decent.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 The Glenrothes  The Glenrothes 

1988

ABV 43.0%

Comments: Perfectly acceptable example of one of the Glenrothes styles.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Mackmyra  Mackmyra 

Special: 03

ABV 48.3%

Comments: A pleasant dram,with an interesting malty chore.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Port Ellen  Port Ellen 

10th Release, 1978, 31 Years Old

ABV 54.6%

Comments: That whisky needs a dash of water as the alcohol tends to numb the tastebuds. But too much makes it cardboardy. Interesting but the palate is a bit harsh.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Master of Malt  Master of Malt 

Caol Ila, 30 Years Old

ABV 57.4%

Comments: Incredibly crisp and strong for its age. Water mellows the nose but makes the palate more astringent. Lack of balance.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Glencadam  Glencadam 

14 Years Old Sherrywood

ABV 46.0%

Comments: On the surface all smiles and amenability but like a David Lynch film there's darkness lurking underneath.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Boisdale  Boisdale 

Mortlach 

Speyside, Cask No. 4234

ABV 46.0%

Comments: Not as oaky on the palate as expected from the nose.Lacks subtlety. The nose is not specially inviting. Water enhances bitterness.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 The Wee Dram  The Wee Dram 

Balblair 

12 Years Old

ABV 46.0%

Comments: A rich and deep character with an enticing nose and a more rigid palate. Give it time.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Old Malt Cask  Old Malt Cask 

Tamnavulin 

1977, 30 Years Old, Bourbon Cask

ABV 50.0%

Comments: Seems to hesitate between sweet and dry. Water gets the balance right.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

 Duncan Taylor Rarest of the Rare  Duncan Taylor Rarest of the Rare 

Inverleven 

1979, 27 Years Old

ABV 54.1%

Comments: This whisky definitely needs water to extinguish the fire. Would have benefited from a bottling at a lower strength.

OVERALL SCORE

7.9

  The Scotch Malt Whisky Society 

North Port 

1977

ABV 0.0%

Comments: Much the best North Port I have tasted.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Royal Mile Whiskies  Royal Mile Whiskies 

Bunnahabhain 

33 Years Old, Old Islay Single Malt

ABV 45.5%

Comments: Caramel and creamy notes dominate this whisky, which could be boring were it not for the intriguing hints or ripe fruit and Calvados.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Duncan Taylor Rare Auld  Duncan Taylor Rare Auld 

Glen Grant 

1974, 34 Years Old

ABV 51.5%

Comments: Too dry and bitter for me.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Duncan Taylor Dimensions  Duncan Taylor Dimensions 

Bunnahabhain 

2008, Aged 8 Years, Cask Strength

ABV 52.5%

Comments: Egg fried rice, sweet 'n' sour chicken, and that Islay whisky, please…

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 The BenRiach  The BenRiach 

22 Years Old Moscatel

ABV 46.0%

Comments: I’m not sure where those dominant fruit aromas went, but they were edged out by those richer notes. Still a good drop.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Highland Park  Highland Park 

Dark Origins

ABV 46.8%

Comments: The sherry masks more subtle flavours so it feels a little one-dimensional.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Master of Malt  Master of Malt 

Lowland Single Malt, 2nd Edition

ABV 40.0%

Comments:

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Glenfarclas The Family Casks  Glenfarclas The Family Casks 

Release X, 1992

ABV 55.8%

Comments: Probably a sherry first fill. The wood is the leader. Fruit is in an oaky cage. I know some people love it that way. I look for more balance.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Glen Garioch  Glen Garioch 

(A Rare Find) 1997, 15 Years Old, Cask No. 828

ABV 53.8%

Comments: A soft drink with alcohol? Pleasant and refreshing. A dash of water is necessary to cut the edges though. But it enhances astringency.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Auchroisk  Auchroisk 

1997 30 Years Old

ABV 54.7%

Comments: Give time to this whisky but avoid water which enhances the alcohol feel. There is some austerity in the character but it does open up with a bit of patience.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Scott's Selection  Scott's Selection 

Tullibardine 

1989, 23 Years Old

ABV 55.7%

Comments: A well balanced dram, on the oaky edge of things.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Wemyss Malts  Wemyss Malts 

Tullibardine 

1989, Rum 'n' Raisin

ABV 46.0%

Comments: A pleasant summer dram. The nose delivers more than the palate though. To try with a bowl of strawberries and yoghurt.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Tomintoul  Tomintoul 

1995, 14 Years Old

ABV 46.0%

Comments: Evokes more a watercolour. But it does not have the character of a late Turner though. A very pleasant dram when a need for peace,quiet and comfort.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Ichiro's Malt  Ichiro's Malt 

Five of Spades 2000 9 Years Old

ABV 60.5%

Comments: A well tamed dram for its strength. Does not release a large array of aromas but keeps a good balance.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Linkwood  Linkwood 

26 Years Old, Rum Cask

ABV 54.5%

Comments: Complex,intriguing but perhaps a tad too sweet for this taster.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Dewar Rattray Cask Collection  Dewar Rattray Cask Collection 

Tamdhu 

1980, 12 Years Old

ABV 57.1%

Comments: An enticing note and a more 'square'

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Talisker  Talisker 

Distillers Edition 1993

ABV 45.8%

Comments: Difficult to taste a Talisker blind ! The strength tells all (though Lagavulin played a trick in this tasting).The legendary pepperiness is a memory.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Dewar Rattray Cask Collection  Dewar Rattray Cask Collection 

Strathmill 

1976, 31 Years Old

ABV 48.4%

Comments: All was going so well then the finish undoes all the good work. Ultimately unbalanced. Still at least my breath smells minty fresh.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Dewar Rattray Cask Collection  Dewar Rattray Cask Collection 

Caol Ila 

1982, 25 Years Old

ABV 62.5%

Comments: Like an unripe fruit. Too biting, too thin flavourwise. Possibly a tired cask.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Duncan Taylor, The NC2 Range  Duncan Taylor, The NC2 Range 

Imperial 

Aged 12 Years

ABV 46.0%

Comments: An aperitif dram.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 The Lonach Collection  The Lonach Collection 

Glen Grant 

31 Years Old

ABV 42.4%

Comments: A reticent nose is completely eclipsed by a huge but uncomplicated palate. Benefits greatly from water.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 The Cooper's Choice  The Cooper's Choice 

Inchgower 

1980, Sherry Cask

ABV 46.0%

Comments: I enjoyed it, but I am sensitive to that sulphur/meaty character of certain sherry casks. That finish is a hindrance to the drink, not a help.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 John McDougall's Selection  John McDougall's Selection 

Aged 15 Years

ABV 55.8%

Comments: It's a decent dram, but the soapiness just knocks it back a few points.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 

 

Douglas Laing Old & Rare Platinum Selection 

Millburn 

34 Years Old

ABV 50.9%

Comments: Has the austerity of age but not the sweetness to balance.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 The Whisky Fair  The Whisky Fair 

Jura 

Single Cask #144

ABV 61.3%

Comments: A lot happening. A very lively whisky.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Ardbeg  Ardbeg 

1980, Kildalton

ABV 57.6%

Comments: A substantial drink with an all-enveloping charm.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

  The Yamazaki 

1979, Oak Cask

ABV 58.0%

Comments: Scores points for its robust distinctiveness.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Gordon & MacPhail  Gordon & MacPhail 

Ardmore 

1987

ABV 40.0%

Comments: All the qualities of this distillery: fragrance, good feel, little smoke but not one of the best.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

  Glenmorangie 

Manager's Choice Port Wood

ABV 57.2%

Comments: More of a cocktail than a malt as if some wine has been left in the glass and Glenmorangie poured on top of it. Help! I'm confused!

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

  Old Malt Cask 

Clynelish 

1971, Aged 30 Years

ABV 50.0%

Comments: It's just too old and struggles to fight its way out of the wood.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Gordon & MacPhail Private Collection  Gordon & MacPhail Private Collection 

Caol Ila 

1998, Calvados

ABV 40.0%

Comments: A highly unusual Caol Ila mysteriously lacking in complexity.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Adelphi  Adelphi 

Tamdhu 

1985, 15 Years Old

ABV 55.3%

Comments: Judging from the very pale colour, the wood did not have much positive input. Hence, perhaps, the lack of Tamdhu's sometime elegance.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 High Coast  High Coast 

Silent Mills Collection 02 - Sandö

ABV 51.0%

Comments: This one is great fun.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Arran  Arran 

21 Years Old Single Malt

ABV 46.0%

Comments: Well balanced and really quite restorative.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

  Islay 

10 Years Old

ABV 40.0%

Comments: Emphatically Islay without being aggressive. Lots of flavour development, but deftly handled.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 The GlenDronach  The GlenDronach 

Original 12 Years Old

ABV 40.0%

Comments: Avery enjoyable whisky, but somewhat lacking in liveliness.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 The Golden Cask  The Golden Cask 

Bruichladdich 

1992, 16 Years Old

ABV 54.2%

Comments: Balanced and charming.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Malts of Scotland  Malts of Scotland 

Clynelish 

1996, 12 Years Old

ABV 58.1%

Comments: Atypically consistent example from Clynelish.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Speciality Drinks  Speciality Drinks 

Port Askaig 

30 Years Old

ABV 45.8%

Comments: A pleasant islander but kind of losing its colours like an old watercolour painting.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Old Malt Cask  Old Malt Cask 

Caol Ila 

1979, 30 Years Old

ABV 50.0%

Comments: A refreshing and straightforward dram. Light and lively.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Dewar Rattray Cask Collection  Dewar Rattray Cask Collection 

Laphroaig 

1998, 11 Years Old

ABV 61.6%

Comments: Intriguing but just a little too dry.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Laphroaig  Laphroaig 

16 Years Old

ABV 43.0%

Comments: Ticks all the ‘true’ Laphroaig boxes, but doesn’t match this year’s revived 15 Years Old for overall excellence which is a pity.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 The Solaria Series  The Solaria Series 

Whisky Illuminati 

Craigellachie

ABV 67.9%

Comments: Despite the searing ABV there is flavour here, in time it reveals a balanced character. Water ramps up the sweetness.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 The Dalmore  The Dalmore 

Cigar Malt Reserve

ABV 43.0%

Comments: Oak calls the tune but does not drown out the choir. A classic afterdinner dram.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Laphroaig  Laphroaig 

16 Years Old

ABV 43.0%

Comments: Comments: Ticks all the ‘true’ Laphroaig boxes, but doesn’t match this year’s revived 15 Years Old for overall excellence which is a pity.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Elixir Distillers  Elixir Distillers 

Port Askaig 

10th Anniversary

ABV 55.9%

Comments: One for the peatheads. An essay in peat some will adore.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Allt A Bhainne  Allt A Bhainne 

Single Malt Scotch Whisky

ABV 40.0%

Comments: A simple and straightforward enough whisky, the smoke teasing the palate just a little.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Berry Bros. & Rudd  Berry Bros. & Rudd 

Tullibardine 

1993, 24 Years Old

ABV 46.0%

Comments: A great amount of sweetness that is tempered by the dark fruits and darker chocolate. Quite moreish really.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Glen Elgin  Glen Elgin 

Aged 18 Years, Special Release

ABV 54.8%

Comments: If you like vanilla…

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Benromach  Benromach 

Triple Distilled

ABV 50.0%

Comments: The most boring fellow at the party.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 The GlenDronach  The GlenDronach 

Single Cask Batch 14, 30 Years Old

ABV 52.3%

Comments: Lots to love, but the anise-y seeds knock points unfortunately – they don’t quite sit comfortably with the rest.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Douglas Laing  Douglas Laing 

Single Minded 

Speyside, Aged 15 Years

ABV 46.0%

Comments: For the Dr Jekylls and Mr Hydes out there.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Glen Breton  Glen Breton 

Rare 19 Years Old, Single Malt Whisky

ABV 43.0%

Comments: Really enjoyable, a great aperitif and the apple notes almost reminded of a Calvados. Would have only preferred it to be a slightly higher ABV as think it needed a bit more oomph.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Tomatin  Tomatin 

14 Years Old

ABV 46.0%

Comments: A shy whisky with a restrained aromatic profile.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Laphroaig  Laphroaig 

Select

ABV 40.0%

Comments: A quiet islander. But rather one-dimensional.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Master of Malt  Master of Malt 

Single Cask Series 

Tobermory, 17 Years Old

ABV 57.0%

Comments: A vibrant character, especially on the palate. Refreshing but with a bite.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Talisker  Talisker 

Port Ruighe

ABV 45.8%

Comments: Disappointing for a Talisker. The port finish takes it off the shore.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Douglas of Drumlanrig  Douglas of Drumlanrig 

Craigellachie 

12 Years Old

ABV 46.0%

Comments: The palate confirms the nose with dominant oak. Water tends to tone the wood down a little. It lacks balance for me. But those who like oakiness will enjoy.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Master of Malt  Master of Malt 

Single Cask Series 

Bunnahabhain, 1990, 20 Years Old

ABV 54.1%

Comments: Soft and very easy.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 High Spirits  High Spirits 

Mesquite Smoked Arizona

ABV 40.0%

Comments: Has the true spirit character slightly masked here?

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Ichiro's Malt  Ichiro's Malt 

Eight of Hearts 1991

ABV 56.8%

Comments: The nose is as dour as the palate is vibrant and full of life. Very strange.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 The BenRiach  The BenRiach 

Horizons 12 Years Old

ABV 50.0%

Comments: A clean spirit, drier and spicier than expected from the nose. A dash of water gives it a better balance.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Berrys' Own Selection  Berrys' Own Selection 

Clynelish 

1982

ABV 46.0%

Comments: A very pleasing dram with decent balance, but just a touch too discreet.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Dewar Rattray Cask Collection  Dewar Rattray Cask Collection 

Bunnahabhain 

1974, 35 Years Old

ABV 44.3%

Comments: The nose has got some complexity but the palate is overwhelmed and overdried by spices. It needs water.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Benromach  Benromach 

Origins

ABV 0.0%

Comments: Well worth looking out for.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Ardbeg  Ardbeg 

Blasda 10 Year Old

ABV 40.0%

Comments: A delicate and rather charming afternoon (or 4am) dram. Will cause a stooshie though!

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Berrys' Own Selection  Berrys' Own Selection 

Glenglassaugh 

1983

ABV 46.0%

Comments: A somewhat austere but well structured whisky.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Balblair  Balblair 

1975

ABV 46.0%

Comments: The Balblair bandwagon continues.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 anCnoc  anCnoc 

1994

ABV 46.0%

Comments: Another wee charmer from anCnoc.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 The Whisky Society  The Whisky Society 

Caol Ila 

1994

ABV 57.0%

Comments: A classic Islay. Full of smoke,soot and tar.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 The Whisky Fair  The Whisky Fair 

Tomatin 

1984, 22 Years Old

ABV 0.0%

Comments: A well structured old lad but it seems to have lost some vigour. The palate is still vivid but the nose is weakening

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Dewar Rattray Cask Collection  Dewar Rattray Cask Collection 

The Macallan 

19 Years Old

ABV 57.4%

Comments: The distillery character is dominated by the sherry one. And the high strength makes it even more blatant. A drop of water eases it a little.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Bakery Hill  Bakery Hill 

Peated Single Malt Whisky

ABV 46.0%

Comments: Interesting but needs to fill out.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Old Malt Cask  Old Malt Cask 

Glencadam 

1985, Aged 21 Years

ABV 50.0%

Comments: Mature, balanced, elegant.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

  Speyburn 

1973

ABV 46.0%

Comments: Another light-tasting malt that blossoms with age. Its flavours belie the use of a malt that is scarcely peated.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Auchentoshan  Auchentoshan 

1990, 16 Years Old Bourbon Matured

ABV 53.7%

Comments: A well educated dram, pleasant, balanced. Maybe just lacking the sparkle which would make it gain a better score.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Glen Moray  Glen Moray 

Mountain Oak, The Final Release

ABV 58.6%

Comments: More of a whisky spread than a drink. For those with a sweet tooth.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Karuizawa  Karuizawa 

1988, Cask No. 3397

ABV 59.8%

Comments: Does that paradoxical and very Japanese thing of being able to have real lift while going deep at the same time.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Gordon & MacPhail Private Collection  Gordon & MacPhail Private Collection 

Caol Ila 

1990, Demerara Rum Finish

ABV 45.0%

Comments: A bit puzzling at start. Seems somewhat austere and restrained. Then releases sweet notes. Is it an effect of the rum finish?

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

  The Lonach Collection 

The Glenrothes 

35 Years Old

ABV 40.2%

Comments: Old with a certain sexy, slinky quality.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Berrys' Own Selection  Berrys' Own Selection 

Caol Ila 

1996

ABV 57.0%

Comments: Distinctive, and not the usual Caol Ila, and Talisker fans should find this one fun.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Nikka  Nikka 

Yoichi 1985, Cask No. 250216

ABV 58.0%

Comments: A sharp character, full of life. Needs water to tame the alcohol. For an outdoor invigorating crisp morning walk.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Ichiro's Malt  Ichiro's Malt 

1990, Queen of Hearts

ABV 54.0%

Comments: A well balanced and refreshing dram. Try it with raw fish and ginger in vinegar.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 The Single Malts of Scotland  The Single Malts of Scotland 

Ardmore 

1994, 11 Years Old

ABV 60.8%

Comments: Speyside you say, eh? A real region buster, and I loved that sootiness.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 The Wee Dram  The Wee Dram 

Aged 15 Years

ABV 40.0%

Comments: A delicate texture releases growing richness, with a sip turning into a rewarding mouthful.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Duncan Taylor  Duncan Taylor 

Strathisla 

Aged 37 Years, Cask 1332

ABV 47.6%

Comments: Highly attractive. Worth having a look at.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Dewar Rattray Cask Collection  Dewar Rattray Cask Collection 

Strathmill 

Aged 15 Years

ABV 63.5%

Comments: Shows good complexity, just tipped slightly into the oak camp.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Berrys' Own Selection  Berrys' Own Selection 

Auchentoshan 

1983

ABV 46.0%

Comments: One of those 'light' drams which sneaks up and beguiles you.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

  James MacArthur's Old Masters 

Bruichladdich 

1991, 12 Years Old

ABV 58.7%

Comments: The Laddie in austere mood. Best before dinner.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 The Macallan  The Macallan 

8 Years Old, Fine Oak

ABV 0.0%

Comments: Fresh and young, but balanced with good feel. Have it long.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

  Cadenhead's 

Bladnoch 

1989, 13 Years Old

ABV 54.9%

Comments: A good example from a shamefully overlooked distillery.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 The Balvenie  The Balvenie 

PortWood 1989

ABV 40.0%

Comments: Not the depth of the PortWood 21 Years Old, but thoroughly enjoyable.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Ian Macleod  Ian Macleod 

Dun Bheagan 

Islay, Aged 8 Years

ABV 43.0%

Comments: A promising middleweight. Could be a contender in two or three years.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 The MacPhail's Collection  The MacPhail's Collection 

Tamdhu 

30 Years Old

ABV 43.0%

Comments: Just enough oak for structure. A real surprise for a distillery which can often be pretty bland.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Connoisseur's Choice  Connoisseur's Choice 

Dailuaine 

1975

ABV 40.0%

Comments: A rich beast of a dram from another often overlooked still.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Craigellachie Hotel of Speyside  Craigellachie Hotel of Speyside 

Craigellachie 

2003 Single Cask Bottling, 1982, 21 Years Old

ABV 57.7%

Comments: Decent balance, but very nervy.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Dun Bheagan  Dun Bheagan 

Bladnoch 

Aged 17 Years

ABV 43.0%

Comments: Drier and thinner than Bladnoch at it's best.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

  Cadenhead's 

Glenglassaugh 

25 Years Old

ABV 45.2%

Comments: A spiky mix of apple and grass. Intriguing.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Speyburn  Speyburn 

16 Years Old

ABV 46.0%

Comments: One of the most assertive, flavoursome examples of Speyburn I have tasted. A pretty whisky from a pretty distillery.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Signatory  Signatory 

Caol Ila 

1981, Cask Strength

ABV 62.5%

Comments: Another Caol Ila? I like the softer, more succulent expression.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Rosebank  Rosebank 

Aged 12 Years

ABV 43.0%

Comments: Relatively young, but beginning to weary nonetheless. Perhaps this tiredness is caused by worry about the future. A feminine whisky that has lost the first bloom of youth. Snatch a kiss while you can.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

  Yoichi 

1986, Single Cask

ABV 61.3%

Comments: The driest and leanest of this flight, but has some complexity.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Miyagikyo Single Cask  Miyagikyo Single Cask 

Sendai, 1990

ABV 60.6%

Comments: An intriguing mix of sweet wood, crisp malt and toasted nuttiness.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

  Mackillop's Choice 

Tomatin 

1975, Cask 4

ABV 58.2%

Comments: Lovely, soft and sweet.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

  Gordon & MacPhail 

The Macallan 

1993, Speymalt

ABV 40.0%

Comments: A lovely and quite complex range of flavours and textures. A palate whisky.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Gordon & MacPhail  Gordon & MacPhail 

Benromach 

1973

ABV 40.0%

Comments: After a weekend walk in the country? Mid to late afternoon. Who needs tea? Just a slice of fruit pie and a generous dram of Benromach.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

  Chieftain's 

Teaninich 

Aged 21 Years, Sherry Butt

ABV 46.0%

Comments: A good Teaninich, austere, grassy yet with an extra dimension.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

  Adelphi Knockdhu 

1989, 12 Years Old, Cask 286

ABV 56.6%

Comments: Best with only a splash of water.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Gordon & MacPhail  Gordon & MacPhail 

Miltonduff 

1968

ABV 40.0%

Comments: An easy-going and well preserved oldie with reasonable complexity.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Signatory  Signatory 

Edradour 

1976

ABV 53.1%

Comments: Past its best with one or two off-key notes, but otherwise still holds out well.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Cù Bòcan  Cù Bòcan 

Cù Bòcan Creation #1

ABV 46.0%

Comments: A good strong character with a brilliant finish, love that chilli prickle, one for before dinner.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Highland Park  Highland Park 

Viking Pride, 18 Years Old

ABV 43.0%

Comments: Save this one for when the year turns colder, will warm the cockles for sure.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 The Pibroch  The Pibroch 

12 Years Old

ABV 43.0%

Comments: All the components but not very well integrated. Oiliness seems to dominate.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

  Douglas Laing 

Clynelish 

1989, 13 Years Old

ABV 50.0%

Comments: Avery spicy whisky, especially in the minty notes that seem always to come with rum, yet the Clynelish shines through.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Malts of Scotland  Malts of Scotland 

Bunnahabhain 

1997, 12 Years Old

ABV 55.3%

Comments: The nose let expect a more integrated oak on the palate. The violet is overwhelming.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Glenfiddich  Glenfiddich 

Rich Oak

ABV 40.0%

Comments: It’s a decent enough dram but just falls flat in the mouth. More alcohol would have helped methinks.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 That Boutique-y Whisky Company  That Boutique-y Whisky Company 

Tomintoul 

Batch 1

ABV 47.8%

Comments: I’d like to get my hands on a bottle of this, lots to hold your attention.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Amrut  Amrut 

Portonova

ABV 62.1%

Comments: The nose is better without water, but the taste better with a lovely port finish.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Bushmills  Bushmills 

21 Years Old

ABV 40.0%

Comments: A delicious whisky. The sweetness and nuttiness of Bushmills whiskey and of Madeira are an enjoyable double-act. The whiskey has to work hard to avoid being upstaged.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 

 

 

Bushmills  Bushmills 

16 Years Old

ABV 40.0%

Comments: Plenty of oak but the spirit holds its own. An extra dimension to the 10.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Bowmore  Bowmore 

Claret

ABV 56.0%

Comments: The fighter beat the boxer, but it was a wonderfully enjoyable contest.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Bushmills  Bushmills 

10 Years Old

ABV 40.0%

Comments: After years of being overshadowed by its older wood finished cousins, this 10 Years Old is finally coming into its own.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 The Yamazaki  The Yamazaki 

Aged 12 Years

ABV 43.0%

Comments: A pioneering malt in Japan, for which Suntory deserve great credit. In its early days, it was rounded and delicate, as though wary of offending anyone. Now it is more intense, confident and elegant.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Brora  Brora 

30 Years Old

ABV 56.3%

Comments: Dour at first then opening up in a delightful way. Take your time to get acquainted with this fellow and you'll like it.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Bunnahabhain  Bunnahabhain 

25 Years Old

ABV 43.0%

Comments: A bold spirit, tempered by well-timed maturation. A little flat to be truly great.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Hakushu  Hakushu 

12 Years Old

ABV 43.0%

Comments: A perfectly balanced dram. Fruit and spices mingle gently.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Talisker  Talisker 

30 Years Old

ABV 53.1%

Comments: A well structured dram. More appreciated neat than diluted. Water enhances oak and bitterness.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 The Westfalian 2012  The Westfalian 2012 

German Single Malt Whiskey

ABV 49.2%

Comments: A huge bag of smoke. Lacks balance and finesse, very linear. One for the peat heads.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Lady of the Glen  Lady of the Glen 

Tobermory 

8 years Old

ABV 68.2%

Comments: Back the alcohol down with water and some more sweetness emerges.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 The Dalmore  The Dalmore 

2001, Vintage Port Collection, Aged 15 Years

ABV 40.0%

Comments: A whisky interrupted. Wonderful while the flavours lasted.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 The BenRiach  The BenRiach 

Peated Quarter Casks

ABV 46.0%

Comments: Not really doing anything for me.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Wemyss Malts  Wemyss Malts 

Peat Chimney 

Aged 12 Years

ABV 40.0%

Comments: A well knitted islander. No complexity but a straightforward character.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Wemyss Malts  Wemyss Malts 

Bunnahabhain 

1987, Scallop Diver's Dram

ABV 46.0%

Comments: Why have a half 'n' half when you can just drink this?!

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Ardbeg  Ardbeg 

Kelpie

ABV 46.0%

Comments: Interesting. Peat is high – you could be chewing on sticks of charcoal. Lacks sweetness to balance things out.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Highland Park  Highland Park 

Valkyrie

ABV 45.9%

Comments: Cereal, subtle smoke and sweetness… an island dram ticking all boxes.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Aultmore  Aultmore 

18 Years Old

ABV 46.0%

Comments: Water washes out some of the interesting characters. The palate wasn’t as expressive as the nose, but is still pleasant.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Abbey Whisky  Abbey Whisky 

Anon 

Batch 1, Aged 13 Years

ABV 51.5%

Comments: Great, floral, citrusy, nutty, an amalgam of flavours which do not supersede each other. I would gladly indulge in some more.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 The BenRiach  The BenRiach 

10 Years Old

ABV 43.0%

Comments: An attractive nose, perfect for summer sipping, though hides more of a punch than expected.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Berrys' Own Selection  Berrys' Own Selection 

Littlemill 

1988, 25 Years Old, Cask #33

ABV 46.0%

Comments: Youthful. For me, this just hasn’t developed enough.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 The English Whisky Company  The English Whisky Company 

Chapter 7

ABV 46.0%

Comments: A little misdirected, I couldn't get to grips with the flavours in the mix here but I can see how this might appeal.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Caskstrength & Carry On  Caskstrength & Carry On 

Cutty Sark

ABV 51.4%

Comments: The nose is more enticing than the palate. But a decent dram on the whole.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Wemyss Malts  Wemyss Malts 

Linkwood 

2000, Summer Orchard

ABV 46.0%

Comments: A pleasant refreshing feel on the palate but a thin aromatic profile.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Glenglassaugh  Glenglassaugh 

Evolution

ABV 57.2%

Comments: A straightforward clean young whisky. Water to tame the alcohol bite.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Karuizawa  Karuizawa 

1984 CASK #4021

ABV 64.5%

Comments: Interesting aromatic profile but the alcohol strength makes it too harsh. Water does not soothe it, and that makes it difficult to really appreciate for me.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Caol Ila  Caol Ila 

14 Years Old

ABV 59.3%

Comments: The palate does not have the nose delicacy. Water tones the alcohol down but brings out astringency. A Caol Ila? I would never have guessed.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Scott's Selection  Scott's Selection 

Speyside 

1993

ABV 61.5%

Comments: A little sulphurous on the nose but the palate seems to pull it together.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Brora  Brora 

Aged 35 Years

ABV 48.1%

Comments: The oak dominates a bit too much for me.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Dewar Rattray  Dewar Rattray 

Stronachie 

12 Years Old

ABV 43.0%

Comments: Well balanced and aromatic. Honey is the key element.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 A. D. Rattray's  A. D. Rattray's 

Whisky Experience 

Malt 2, 2002, 9 Years Old

ABV 40.0%

Comments: The palate is more appealing than the nose. A pleasant dram, leaving a fresh feeling. Better neat than diluted.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Balcones  Balcones 

Texas Single Malt

ABV 51.0%

Comments: Oak is certainly present but does not mask the malty and fruity notes. Elegant austerity.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Bruichladdich  Bruichladdich 

Port Charlotte 9 2001

ABV 59.2%

Comments: Another to have with minimal dilution. Peat freaks will lap it up.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Mackmyra  Mackmyra 

Moment Rimfrost

ABV 53.2%

Comments: The nose delivers more aromas than the palate. The alcohol is not totally mastered here. A few more years in the cask maybe ?

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 The BenRiach  The BenRiach 

Sherry Matured

ABV 46.0%

Comments: Good, sweet and balanced.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Wemyss Malts  Wemyss Malts 

Single Cask Release 

1989, 20 Years Old, The Fruit Bowl

ABV 46.0%

Comments: A cousin of the previous sample? Maybe creamier and softer though. But there is still a gap between nose and palate.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Mackmyra  Mackmyra 

Brukswhisky

ABV 41.4%

Comments: This is Mackmyra's delicacy stretched to the max.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Hazelburn  Hazelburn 

CV

ABV 46.0%

Comments: A decent dram, refreshing and light. But nothing exciting. Water gives it a bit more thickness.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Glen Breton Rare  Glen Breton Rare 

20th Anniversary

ABV 43.0%

Comments: A love or hate dram.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Glenfarclas  Glenfarclas 

105 Cask Strength, 40 Years Old

ABV 60.0%

Comments: The nose was promising but the palate is too woody for me. And the alcohol is not mastered.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Deanston  Deanston 

12 Years Old 1996

ABV 46.3%

Comments: Disappointing.The nose has more than the palate.Less cardboardy with water but surprisingly fiery.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Penderyn  Penderyn 

Portwood Edition, Cask PT26

ABV 60.6%

Comments: The nose is miles away from the palate. Sad as I was expecting more complexity and subtlety.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Smokey Joe  Smokey Joe 

Islay Malt

ABV 46.0%

Comments: A decent solid dram for everyday drinking, and nothing wrong about that.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 The Wee Dram  The Wee Dram 

Caol Ila 

10 Years Old

ABV 46.0%

Comments: A very pleasant outdoor dram. Don't look for complexity but just enjoy its fresh fizziness.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Dewar Rattray Cask Collection  Dewar Rattray Cask Collection 

Mortlach 

16 Years Old

ABV 55.5%

Comments: One more example of unbalanced oakiness. That sensation of nosing and tasting oak juice is not very exciting.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Glenmorangie  Glenmorangie 

Quarter Century

ABV 43.0%

Comments: A straightforward whisky. Delivers the whole package in one go. A good warmer up for rainy days. Don't expect stylish manners.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Old Malt Cask  Old Malt Cask 

Tomatin 

1975, 31 Years Old

ABV 50.0%

Comments: On the oakyside. Too old? Lacks subtleness.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Berrys' Own Selection  Berrys' Own Selection 

The Dalmore 

1997

ABV 46.0%

Comments: The grassy profile of this whisky is too much.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Tomintoul  Tomintoul 

12 Years Old, Oloroso Sherry Cask

ABV 40.0%

Comments: Very shy almost embarassed. Don't be, Tomintoul.Shout it out!

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 MacDonald's Glencoe  MacDonald's Glencoe 

8 Years Old

ABV 58.0%

Comments: A warm comfort blanket of flavours.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Brechin  Brechin 

28 Years Old

ABV 53.3%

Comments: A warm character, just a little too assertive when it comes to oak but so uplifting.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 The Balvenie  The Balvenie 

17 Years Old Sherry Oak

ABV 43.0%

Comments: The sherry influence conveys a certain dourness to the malt. Not fully convinced by this finish.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Wemyss Vintage Malts  Wemyss Vintage Malts 

Single Cask Release 

1990, Coconut Cream

ABV 46.0%

Comments: Light, but a good aperitif. Have it with ice.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Auchentoshan  Auchentoshan 

1976, 40 Years Old

ABV 41.6%

Comments: Old but still fresh. All very discreet. At its best neat.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Teaninich  Teaninich 

10 Years Old

ABV 43.0%

Comments: A dram you admire first, then love.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Gordon & MacPhail  Gordon & MacPhail 

Benromach 

1980

ABV 58.6%

Comments: Another vibrant springtime aperitif.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

  Caperdonich 

Rum Finish, 33 Years Old

ABV 49.2%

Comments: They've done their best to improve a poor cask, but it's one note all the way.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Old Malt Cask  Old Malt Cask 

Scapa 

Aged 13 Years

ABV 50.0%

Comments: Light and discreet. Perfectly pleasant but not exactly exciting.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Chieftain's  Chieftain's 

Imperial 

Aged 24 Years

ABV 46.0%

Comments: One for the palate and not the nose.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Berrys' Own Selection  Berrys' Own Selection 

Glen Grant 

1972, 33 Years Old

ABV 46.0%

Comments: After a nose that can only be described as 'hairy'

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 The Whisky Fair  The Whisky Fair 

Glen Scotia 

Heavily Peated

ABV 52.7%

Comments: A little pongy at points, but with youthful charm. A tyke with a grubby face.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 The Arran Malt  The Arran Malt 

Aged 10 Years

ABV 46.0%

Comments: A satisfying everyday malt. I can't think of a time when you wouldn't want one of these. Populist.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Hakushu  Hakushu 

18 Years Old

ABV 43.0%

Comments: Another lighter one which only gets going in the middle of the mouth.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Whisky Galore  Whisky Galore 

Mortlach 

1988, Aged 16 Year, Cask Strength

ABV 57.9%

Comments: Speyside style.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Berrys' Own Selection  Berrys' Own Selection 

Longmorn 

1990

ABV 46.0%

Comments: A perfectly pretty dram but it is almost too light. Even delicate whiskies need backbone.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 The Single Malts of Scotland  The Single Malts of Scotland 

Linkwood 

1993, Aged 12 Years, Sherry Butt Cask 3517

ABV 59.1%

Comments: Big cask character, with spirit style just poking through. The spirit seemed at odds with the cask perhaps.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 James MacArthur's Old Masters  James MacArthur's Old Masters 

The Glenrothes 

1988

ABV 53.5%

Comments: A mellow character with integrated flavours rather than an individual sequence.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Teaninich  Teaninich 

Aged 10 Years

ABV 43.0%

Comments: The opposite of its lush companions. A poet on a wobbly bicycle (Norman MacCaig?) I like its perversity. Regional style? Pah!

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Gordon & MacPhail  Gordon & MacPhail 

Balblair 

1966

ABV 40.0%

Comments: Another which picks up well on the palate.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 The Glenlivet  The Glenlivet 

12 Years Old, First Fill Sherry Cask

ABV 40.0%

Comments: Attractive, versatile.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Duncan Taylor  Duncan Taylor 

Glen Keith 

1971, Aged 33 Years, Cask 8066

ABV 50.8%

Comments: Overwooded.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Angus Dundee  Angus Dundee 

Glencadam 

15 Years Old

ABV 40.0%

Comments: Well put together.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

  Old Malt Cask 

Laphroaig 

Aged 17 Years, Rum Finish

ABV 50.0%

Comments: Good complexity, weight and mouthfeel but lacking balance.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Locke's  Locke's 

8 Years Old

ABV 40.0%

Comments: A very enjoyable, no nonsense malt.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Nikka  Nikka 

Black, 8 Years Old

ABV 40.0%

Comments: A well balanced session drink.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Chivas Brothers  Chivas Brothers 

Glen Grant 

1989, Aged 14 Years, Cask Strength

ABV 55.3%

Comments: A midsummer's night dream dram. So delicate, so rich but without ostentation.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Lagavulin  Lagavulin 

12 Years Old

ABV 56.1%

Comments: This whisky seems to have matured in tired casks. Quite harsh. Water cuts the edges but does not give it style.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Gordon & MacPhail  Gordon & MacPhail 

Ardmore 

1990, Cask Strength

ABV 55.8%

Comments: Starts slowly, and seems uncertain as to where it is going.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Celtique Connexion  Celtique Connexion 

Bruichladdich 

1992, The Spirit Safe & Cask Selection

ABV 43.0%

Comments: As good as the OB 10 year-old.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

  Gordon & MacPhail 

Mortlach 

1980

ABV 63.8%

Comments: The unusually high strength of this 23 Years Old malt makes it taste younger. Water tames the spirit but heightens woodiness. Lacks delicacy.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Glen Garioch  Glen Garioch 

1986, Aged 16 Years

ABV 54.4%

Comments: A big, robust whisky from the days when Glen Garioch made its own peated malt. I love the idea of a smoky whisky from the edge of Speyside, but I find this slightly astringent.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 The Whisky Exchange  The Whisky Exchange 

Glen Grant 

31 Years Old

ABV 56.9%

Comments: With water, more toffeish malt notes emerge in the middle, but the wood is very dominating.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Blackadder  Blackadder 

Blairfindy 

1980, Raw Cask

ABV 57.6%

Comments: Huge! A machiatto to the Glen Grant espresso.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 The Cask of Yamazaki  The Cask of Yamazaki 

1980, Japanese White Oak Cask

ABV 58.0%

Comments: Aged in a Japanese-made, second-fill, US white oak cask, so no bourbon ageing involved. A worthwhile experiment typical of this enterprising distillery.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 The Glenlivet  The Glenlivet 

12 Years Old, American Oak Finish

ABV 40.0%

Comments: Lacks the subtlety of a more conventional Glenlivet, but will charm some consumers with a richer, creamier, style. Very drinkable indeed.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 The Glenlivet  The Glenlivet 

Aged 12 Years

ABV 40.0%

Comments: A pleasant anytime dram. Very refreshing.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 The Yamazaki  The Yamazaki 

1982, Sherry Wood

ABV 45.0%

Comments: Any whisky-lover would be glad of the chance to taste this, even if it is on the woody side.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

  Signatory 

The Glenturret 

1985

ABV 58.4%

Comments: Big, gentle and attractive if you are a fan of old-style Aussie Chardonnay.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 The Scotch Malt Whisky Society  The Scotch Malt Whisky Society 

Highland Park 

4.57 – Brimstone & Treacle, 9 Years Old

ABV 59.5%

Comments: A light-coloured young malt which thanks to the peat notes suggests Highland Park or maybe Ledaig. The sweetness tends to point the Orkneys. Unusual, very tasty and great fun. Don't know about the 'Brimstone and Treacle', though.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

  Rare Malts Selection 

Millburn 

1975, 25 Years Old

ABV 61.9%

Comments: A grizzled old character, but gains points for resilience.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

  Yoichi 

1990, Single Cask

ABV 61.5%

Comments: A big whisky, with some of the smokiness I remember.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Glengoyne  Glengoyne 

21 Years Old

ABV 43.0%

Comments: If this were a Lowland malt, it would be a star. As a Highlander, it gets lost.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Chieftain's  Chieftain's 

Scapa 

1985, Aged 16 Years

ABV 43.0%

Comments: A northern monster in which Scapa's lusciousness is left as texture with the sherry having a greater impact.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

  Chieftain's 

Auchroisk 

Aged 11 Years

ABV 43.0%

Comments: Has retained the distillery character but given it a sweeter lift.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Bunnahabhain  Bunnahabhain 

1966

ABV 46.1%

Comments: It's more Jerez than Islay. I can't help feeling this would have been a cracker a few years ago.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

  Banff 

1966, 31 Years Old, Old Malt Cask

ABV 50.0%

Comments: A fabulous whisky for its age.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

  Locke's 

Single Malt

ABV 40.0%

Comments: Beautifully balanced with toasted dryness.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 

 

 

Glen Moray 

12 Years Old, Chenin Blanc Finish

ABV 40.0%

Comments: Glen Moray 12 Years Old used to be a bastion of ultra-malty simplicity. No more. Chenin Blanc barrels have added a delightful dimension.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Mortlach  Mortlach 

1980, 17 Years Old, Cask Strength

ABV 63.1%

Comments: A big, rich interpretation; an outstanding digestif.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Gordon & MacPhail  Gordon & MacPhail 

Scapa 

1987

ABV 43.0%

Comments: Gordon and MacPhail has been the purveyor of Scapa's excellent malt far longer than owners Allied, which was slow to wake up to its allure. However, this is not its finest bottling and lacks that lovely cocoa depth of yore.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Blackadder  Blackadder 

Old Man Of Hoy 

Single Orcadian Scotch Malt Whisky

ABV 58.0%

Comments: There is no mention as to whether this is Scapa or Highland Park, but this cannot be anything other than the elder statesman of the two. This is uncompromising, ultra-rich from the old school. A real stunner.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Old Malt Cask  Old Malt Cask 

Highland Park 

1988, Aged 10 Years

ABV 50.0%

Comments: Only the fabulous honey-peat core saves this from being something of a disappointment. I have always felt the Highland Park is a malt that suffers at the hands of a sherry cask and this sample, while having one or two fabulous moments, rather proves the p

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

  Cadenhead's 

Caol Ila 

9 Years Old

ABV 43.0%

Comments: Youthfully powerful. Almost raw flavours, without being in any way spirity. Many Islay-lovers enjoy their whiskies young. This is a robust example.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

  Gordon & MacPhail 

Bunnahabhain 

1989

ABV 40.0%

Comments: One of the most enjoyable Bunnas I've tasted though missing that breathtaking freshness.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

  Bruichladdich 

15 Years Old, (JBB Bottling)

ABV 46.0%

Comments: An easily drinkable yet satisfying malt. Has definitely benefited from the extra five years.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

  Adelphi 

Bruichladdich 

13 Years Old

ABV 40.0%

Comments: Interesting, but not typical.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Glenmorangie  Glenmorangie 

Cognac Matured

ABV 43.0%

Comments: Crisp, but not as characterful as might be hoped.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Bushmills  Bushmills 

16 Years Old

ABV 40.0%

Comments: A touch slick and a little one-dimensional.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Signatory  Signatory 

Glenlossie 

1980

ABV 43.0%

Comments: Delicate, appetising and refreshing, but falls away in the middle.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Wilson & Morgan  Wilson & Morgan 

Longmorn 

1990 Marsala Finish

ABV 46.0%

Comments: One way to get people to rediscover Marsala, but what we need is to get them to discover Longmorn. More Sicilian than Speyside.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8

 Aberlour  Aberlour 

1988, Distiller's Selection

ABV 40.0%

Comments: An astonishingly malty whisky. For someone who wants to taste the eponymous ingredient, this shows it at its best.

OVERALL SCORE

7.8