Tasting Club

How important is age and what does it tell us about a certain whisky? It’s a question that’s probably too complicated to answer in this intro, but we’ve put together a little test for you.

While we’re the first to acknowledge that length of maturation is a big factor in flavor development, there are many more factors that play a role in a whisky’s taste. In broad lines, every distillery produces whisky similarly, but there are always (small or big) differences in approach that matter greatly to the end result.

This month’s selection exclusively includes 10 Year old whiskies, allowing you to find out what other factors play a role in flavor development, such as cask types, the location of the cask, or the use of peated malt. Cheers!

- Team Tasting Collection

Aberlour, 10 Y - Forest Reserve

Founded in 1879, Aberlour is the brainchild of James Fleming. It burnt down and had to be completely rebuilt in 1898, but currently, Aberlour is thriving and its Speyside single malt is known for its high-quality and noticeable sherry influence. The Aberlour Forest Reserve has spent most of its time in bourbon barrels and sherry casks from Spain, before spending a final aging period in French Limousin oak casks. The name is a nod to the commitment of the distillery to preserve the forests of Speyside.

40% Vol.

Aerstone, 10 Y - Sea Cask

The Aerstone Single Malts are part of an effort by William Grant & Sons, owners of Glenfiddich, to simplify the taste messaging. Aerstone, 10 Y – Sea Cask for example, is a Speyside-style single malt matured near the Scottish Ayrshire coast. The theory is that the influence of that location should be noticeable in the end product. While it’s not explicitly mentioned on the label, the Aerstone Sea Cask is distilled at Ailsa Bay, an innovative distillery in the Lowlands of Scotland.

40% Vol.

Glen Moray, 10 Y - Fried Oak

Glen Moray, 10 Y – Fired Oak is this Speyside distillery’s answer to bourbon. By law, American bourbon must mature in charred virgin oak barrels — casks that have never been used before. These types of barrels impart more intense flavors. To capture some of that intense bourbon-like flavor, the Glen Moray Fired Oak is finished in heavily charred virgin casks made from American oak. The result is Scottish single malt whisky with a surprisingly American flavor profile.

40% Vol.

GlenDronach, 10 Y - The Forgue

Once upon a time, Macallan was untouchable when it came to sherry-matured whisky. In recent years, GlenDronach has caught up — or even surpassed — with Macallan to become the leading sherry-matured Scotch whisky brand. The GlenDronach Forgue is one such example of what this Highland distillery has to offer. It matured in a combination of oloroso and Pedro Ximénez sherry casks. The whisky is named after Scotland’s Forgue valley, in which the GlenDronach distillery is located.

43% Vol.

Lagavulin, 10 Y - Exclusive Travel Retail

An island filled with remarkable distilleries, Lagavulin might just be the most iconic brand hailing from the legendary Isle of Islay. Founded in 1816, Lagavulin has stood for excellence for over two centuries. One of their newest releases is the Lagavulin, 10 Y a Single Malt previously only available in Travel Retail. The whisky matured in a combination of ex-bourbon, refill and newly-charred rejuvenated casks and is a permanent addition to the Islay distillery’s core range.

43% Vol.

Dun Bheagan, 10 Y - Bunnahabhain

In contrast to most of its neighbors on the Isle of Islay, Bunnahabhain is mostly known for their unpeated whisky. Bunnahabhain was founded in 1881 and initially did produce smoky whisky, but that practice almost completely stopped from the 1960’s onward. Dun Bheagan, an independent bottler of malt whisky, selected two 10 Year old ex-bourbon casks and bottled them at an impressive cask strength. If you’re familiar with Bunnahabhain, this might not be what you expect — it’s a chance to explore other avenues of Bunnahabhain’s spirit.

43% Vol.

Welcome to another selection of fine Whiskies. My name is Monique ten Kortenaar. I am a distiller, product developer and Dutch ambassador of the Scotch Malt Whisky Society. I also just started my own brand and product, called Otenba. It’s not a gin, neither a genever, but both! Check it out at www.otenba.amsterdam.

I also host masterclasses and tastings. Whiskies and spirits in general are not only my job, but truly my passion as well, which is why I am glad to have the honor of presenting these beautiful and interesting whiskies to you. A lot of different taste profiles in one box for you to enjoy, so please do. Cheers!

- Monique ten Kortenaar
Distiller, Rock singer, Whisky lover

BenRiach - Peated Quarter Casks

Quarter casks aren’t used often in whisky maturation. You’ll encounter them every once in a while, but not many distilleries use these interesting casks. BenRiach is one such distillery that experiments with quarter casks, which are about half the size of regular casks. The BenRiach Peated Quarter Cask is a single malt made from peated barley and has been fully matured in quarter casks. Even after a relatively short maturation the result is an intensely flavorful whisky.

46% Vol.

Johnnie Walker - Island Green

Unlike other Johnnie Walker releases, their Green Label is made exclusively from malt whiskies. Because of that it has always been one of the favorite Johnnie Walker whiskies amongst connoisseurs. Building upon that popularity, Johnnie Walker launched the Island Green. Using a larger amount of the smoky Caol Ila single malt, Island Green has that quintessential peaty island touch, while still leaving room to shine for dignitaries such as Clynelish en Glenkinchie.

43% Vol.

Wemyss Malts - Vanilla Burst

Wemyss Malts is a family-owned business and respected independent bottler of whisky. The Wemyss family also owns Kingsbarns distillery in Scotland. Vanilla Burst by Wemyss Malts is a blended malt, in this case meaning it is made by blending 2 Speyside single malt whiskies together. These whiskies matured in 15 first-fill ex-bourbon barrels and only 4800 bottles have been made available worldwide. The name of the whisky should give you an insight as what to expect.

46% Vol.

Glenglassaugh - Port Wood Finish

Glenglassaugh Port Wood Finish is exactly as the name implies. This whisky was distilled at Glenglassaugh, a distillery located on the northwestern coast of Scotland. Glenglassaugh was built in 1874 but has been closed for big chunks of its existence. The distillery reopened fairly recently in 2008 and now finally seems to have found its place in the Scotch whisky landscape. After an initial maturation in traditional casks (most likely former bourbon barrels), the whisky was finished in ruby Port pipes.

46% Vol.

Glen Garioch - Virgin Oak

Founded in 1797, Glen Garioch is one of the oldest distilleries in Scotland. There are claims of it producing legally at an even earlier date. Maturation in new oak casks that have never been used for any other spirit is rare in Scotch whisky. There are only a few distilleries even attempting it, as the influence of the wood can overpower the flavors of the whisky. Glen Garioch is one of those daring to use new oak — their Virgin Oak release is unlike most other Scotch whiskies you’ll have tried.

48% Vol.

Glenlivet - Rare Cask

The Glenlivet - Triple Cask Matured, Rare Cask is originally a Travel Retail Exclusive. It’s a fruity expression that has matured in 3 different types of cask, with the majority of the whisky having spent its years in first-fill sherry casks. The whisky is bottled in small batches, although small is definitively relative here, as The Glenlivet is the second largest Scotch single malt brand in the world. Founded in 1824, Glenlivet has set the standard for Scotch Whisky for almost two centuries.

40% Vol.

I can still remember my first sip of whisky. It was a hot summer day. Sitting on the porch with my father enjoying a cold beer, he suggested to drink something else. A real drink, he said, just try a whisky. Since 2008 I’m the proud owner of my whisky bar in Zwolle in the Netherlands. I designed it myself and it has since become a SMWS Partner Bar, but it is also home to the local Whisky Club. It’s a generously stocked bar with about 750 whiskies. The bar is a hobby of a lifetime and perfectly complements my hotel with 23 rooms and a good restaurant. Most important though, my life is already complete thanks to my loving wife and 4 kids.

- Patrick Fidder

Spey - Trutinà

Speyside is the most prominent of Scottish Whisky regions, but confusingly there’s also a distillery called Speyside. It’s a quiet player in the world of single malt and has only been in production since 1990. The whisky-making process at Speyside Distillery is chill and relaxed. Fermentation takes a long time, distillation is slow. It makes for a lighter style, perfectly displayed in the Spey - Trutina. Matured in bourbon casks, the name comes from a Latin way of describing balance.

46% Vol.

Aberfeldy, 15 Y - Limited Bottling

Known for its honeyed, sweet style of single malt, Aberfeldy is usually gentle sipping whisky beloved by many. One of their latest limited editions deviates somewhat from what they’re known for. Aged for 15 years in bourbon casks, the whisky was then transferred into French oak casks that previously held Pomerol Bordeaux wine. Pomerol is one of the smallest of all major Bordeaux wine appellations. After 4 to 5 months of maturation in wine casks, this whisky has turned into one of the better wine experiments out there.

43% Vol.

Scapa - Glansa

One of two distilleries on the Orkney Islands, Scapa is often overshadowed by the illustrious Highland Park. Not as much money is spent on marketing, but Scapa is nonetheless a whisky worth seeking out. Long fermentation times make for a fruitiness that is further enhanced in other stages of production. The Scapa Glansa comes with a twist though — it is finished in American oak casks that previously held smoky, peated whisky! It works wonders in combination with Scapa’s distinctive flavor profile.

40% Vol.

Auchentoshan - American Oak Reserve

Founded in 1817, Auchentoshan’s claim to fame is that it is the only distillery in Scotland exclusively using triple distillation. A practice often associated with Irish whiskey, it means that Auchentoshan is distilled to a much higher strength than other Scottish whiskies. With this type of whisky there’s a higher risk of the spirit being overpowered by oak. Auchentoshan’s American Oak Reserve is carefully balanced whisky though, having fully matured in first-fill American oak casks. A prime example of what Auchentoshan is all about.

40% Vol.

Bruichladdich - Port Charlotte, 10 Y

Visiting Bruichladdich is like going back in time. Computers are nowhere to be found and every piece of equipment functions in much the same way as it did in the 19th century. This Islay distillery has a cult following, as do many of its whiskies. A prime example is this Port Charlotte 10 Y, a heavily peated whisky that has gained many fans since it was first launched in 2018. Drawn from first-fill American whisky casks, second-fill American whisky casks and second-fill French wine casks, this is a delectable smoky whisky indeed.

50% Vol.

Arran - St.Émilion Cask 2009

In the last 10 years or so, Scotland has gone through an explosion of new (craft) distilleries. Way ahead of the curve, Arran distillery was founded in 1995, making it the first of the current new wave of distilleries. They’ve built a strong reputation since and are already an established brand. Arran also dares to experiment, proven by the Arran Small Batch St. Emilion Cask 2009. Full maturation in wine casks is rare — producers often only finish their whisky in these types of barrels. It’s up to you to decide if it is a success.

54.9% Vol.

One of our resolutions for the new year is to travel more, so we thought we would start by taking you along for the first trip. During this month alone we go from Belgium to the Black Forest in Germany, before moving along to France and Italy as well as Switzerland. We end our epic trip in Ireland — one of the cradles of whisky as we love and know today.

We feel that each of these countries show how global whisky has become. Yes, Scotland is still the most well-known and largest producer of single malt, but there are so many more options nowadays. We hope you enjoy tagging along! Cheers

- Team Tasting Collection

Gouden Carolus - Single Malt

Gouden Carolus Single Malt is the brainchild of Charles Leclef. He started out as brewer at Belgian brewery Het Anker but founded a distillery of his own at the Leclef family estate in 2010. For centuries this estate was used to produce genever, a traditional Belgian drink. By reviving the distilling heritage of his family, Leclef created a perfect marriage between the past and present. Gouden Carolus Sinlge Malt matures in first-fill bourbon casks and is finished so-called Het Anker casks, which are exclusively made for the distillery.

46% Vol.

Kinahan's - Small Batch

The Kinahan’s brand was founded in 1779 in Dublin and was incredibly popular in the 19th century. It received a Royal Warrant in 1845 from Queen Victoria and was one of the preferred whiskies of Jerry Thomas — a pioneering bartender who is revered to this day. Prohibition and the Irish civil war ushered in the end of the brand in the 1920s, but a few ambitious entrepreneurs have now revived it. It was relaunched as a Small Batch Blended Irish Whiskey on the same Dublin street it was founded all the way back when.

46% Vol.

Puni - Nova

While Italians have long been fascinated with Scotch whisky, they never really had any interest in producing their own whisky. That is, until Puni opened its doors in midst of the Italian Alps in 2012. Interestingly, Puni’s whisky is made not just from malted barley, but also from malted rye and malted wheat. Puni Nova was matured for three years in ex-bourbon barrels from the United Stated followed by a very short finish in European white oak barrels. A pure Italian single malt!

43% Vol.

Säntis Malt - Dreifaltigkeit

For a long time, distilling spirits from grain was not allowed in Switzerland. When the ban was finally lifted in 1999, the beer brewers at Brauerei Locher set out to create the first Swiss single malt whisky ever — Säntis Malt was born. Not surprisingly, the distillery is known for using old beer casks for maturation, like it does for the Säntis Dreifaltigkeit. The beer casks help balance out the distinct smokiness of the single malt, which was awarded Best Single Malt of Europe by Jim Murray.

52% Vol.

Black Forest - Rothaus

This single malt is the result of a collaboration between brewery Landesbrauerei Rothaus and distillery Kammer-Kirsch, both located on the border of Germany’s famous Black Forest. The brewery delivers a fermented wash, which the distillery turns into a whisky called Black Forest Rothaus Single Malt. The first-ever Rothaus Single Malt was released in 2009 and new batches are created annually. It has picked up several awards since, including a coveted Double Gold at the World Spirits awards.

43% Vol.

Évadé - Whisky Français

Évadé is a single malt from France with some interesting characteristics that give it a quintessential French twist. For starters, Évadé is double distilled in a so-called Charentais pot still, usually reserved for making Cognac. After distillation, the Évadé single malt spends its time maturing in a whole range of different cask types, giving the spirit something singular. Both new and old (36 months) French oak casks are used, as well as new American oak, bourbon, cognac and red Burgundy wine. Évadé has aged anywhere between three to five years in total.

40% Vol.

A huge shout out to my dear friend and collector CJ for passing the baton to me. We’ve had not the longest, but surely the most ‘spiritual’ of friendships.

I am a ‘follow your dreams’ millennial for sure. I left my country (Brazil), trade, family and friends behind and moved to London in search of a whisky career (that’s how much I love whisky). Focused and a true workaholic, I had jobs simultaneously at the prestigious Soho Whisky Club and The Whisky Shop until my goal was recently reached: I became brand ambassador for a brand I truly believe, Murray McDavid.

Inside this goodie box you’ll be drawn to different profiles and categories. Take time to unravel its mysteries, plunge your nose inside the glass when it gets empty and inhale all the wonders of a bygone dram.

- João Pedro Cordeiro de Medeiros
Brand Ambassador Murray McDavid

Longmorn - Distiller's Choice

Longmorn is a hidden gem of a distillery that is waiting to be discovered. Its sister distilleries Aberlour and Glenlivet, owned by the same company, have so far received much more attention. However, the time has come for Longmorn to step out of the shadow of its larger siblings. The Longmorn – Distiller’s Choice is a no age statement release from this underrated single malt distillery in Speyside. It matured in three types of casks: hogsheads, Oloroso Sherry casks and bourbon barrels.

40% Vol.

Nomad - Outland

Nomad – Outland is not your average whisky. This unique blended whisky is a collaboration between master distiller Richard Paterson, well-known for his work with the Dalmore and Jura distilleries, and the renowned sherry producer Gonzalez Byass. Nomad – Outland is made with over 30 malt and grain whiskies aged between 5 and 8 years. After initial maturation of several years in Sherry butts, the whisky is shipped from Scotland to Spain, where it is finished in Pedro Ximénez casks for a year.

41.3% Vol.

Murray McDavid - The Vatting, Speysiders 2009

Murray McDavid is large independent bottler of Scottish whisky, located in the Speyside region of Scotland. They have stocks of whisky from all kinds of different distilleries, giving them the opportunity to create The Speysiders. This blended malt is part of Murray McDavid’s The Vatting series. It matured in a combination of Bourbon and Sherry casks, before spending a final period exclusively in sherry butts. It aged for just over a decade and has turned into a whisky that is more than the sum of its parts.

46% Vol.

Lower Est Side

A blended malt is the most high-end of blended whiskies, composed only of malt whisky and completely forgoing grain whisky. Lower East Side Whisky is such a blended malt, made from malt whiskies sourced from all over Scotland. It is made by the same people that started the Borders Distillery, an upstart in the Lowlands of Scotland and the first distillery in the Scottish Borders since 1837. If the quality of their Lower East Side Whisky is anything to go by, their own single malt should be delicious!

40% Vol.

Linkwood, 12 Y - Flora & Fauna

The Flora & Fauna range was started in the 1990s to showcase lesser known distilleries. It has since grown to become a cult series which is very popular among whisky enthusiasts. One such obscure distillery is Linkwood, located in the heart of the Speyside region of Scotland. Founded in 1824, it has since mostly produced whisky for blends. However, the Linkwood 12 Y – Flora & Fauna showcases what beautiful single malt whisky this distillery produces.

43% Vol.

GlenAllachie, 12 Y - Pedro Ximénez Wood Finish

A new dawn started for GlenAllachie when whisky industry veteran Billy Walker swooped in and bought the distillery in 2017. This Speyside distillery has since developed into a surprising and quality brand. Walker is known for his willingness to experiment with different cask types, something he is very capable at. This GlenAllachie 12 Y – Pedro Ximénez is a good example, receiving a finish in Pedro Ximénez sherry casks for over two years. This oozes classic sherry aromas and flavors.

48% Vol.

First, I’d like to thank Ed and Evan of Top Whiskies for asking me to share my thoughts. I'm known to many around the world as @singlemaltvault on Instagram. I'm a whisky enthusiast based in West London who loves sharing whisky with friends.
There's a variety of flavors in this set, some are soft and subtle, and some offer a punch. Everyone's palate is different, so it will be interesting to see what flavors you find. Whatever you get, I hope you enjoy them all. Cheers!

- CJ
Single Malt Vault

Old St.Andrews - Clubhouse

The Old Course at St Andrews is considered the oldest golf course in the world and commonly known as ‘The Home of Golf’. Now this historic location also has its own blended Scotch whisky brand. Old St. Andrews – Clubhouse is made from carefully selected grain and malt whisky from all over Scotland, part of which has matured in European oak casks formerly filled with sweet wines, port or sherry.

40% Vol.

Highland Park - Dragon Legend

Located on the Orkney Islands, Highland Park distillery has strong ties to its Viking heritage. With Highland Park – Dragon Legend the distillery celebrates the stories of Vikings who once ruled Orkney for over 600 years. Highland Park – Dragon Legend is an homage to Viking warrior Sigurd, one of the greatest heroes of the ancient Nordic sagas. The whisky is made with local peat from Hobbister Moor, giving it an intense aromatic smokiness.

43.1% Vol.

Old Pulteney - Vintage 2006

Old Pulteney is one of the northernmost distilleries in Scotland and is known for producing a maritime malt. Located near the shore in the fishing village of Wick, Pulteney has quite a reputation to uphold — one of their whiskies once won World Whisky of the Year. The Old Pulteney – Vintage 2006 is originally a Travel Retail exclusive and matured in first-fill ex-Bourbon American oak barrels. The whisky is non-chill filtered.

46% Vol.

Kilchoman - Loch Gorm

Kilchoman has grown to become a cult distillery located on the Isle of Islay, a legendary Scottish whisky island. Kilchoman was founded in 2005 but is already a staple and much-loved around the world. The Kilchoman – Loch Gorm is a limited annual release named after the dark and peaty loch close to the distillery. It matured exclusively in ex-Oloroso sherry casks and is peated at a hefty 50 PPM (Parts Per Million).

46% Vol.

Arran - Master of Distilling No.2

Founded in 1995, Isle of Arran Distillery is one of the oldest new distilleries. Master distiller James MacTaggart has been involved since 2007 and this Arran – James MacTaggart was released in honor of his 10th anniversary at the distillery. In his first full decade at the distillery, James MacTaggart oversaw the blossoming of Isle of Arran Distillery from a young upstart to a mature and respected whisky producer. The Arran – James MacTaggart is bottled at cask strength.

51.8% Vol.

Wolfburn - Batch 375

This young distillery has managed to build a strong reputation in just a few years time. Founded in 2013, Wolfburn is the most northerly distillery on the Scottish mainland. For the third year in a row they’ve released a small-batch whisky. Wolfburn – Small Batch 375 is limited to 5,500 bottles and crafted from unpeated spirit. This single malt has matured for around four years in a combination of half size (100 liters) first-fill Bourbon barrels and second-fill Oloroso hogsheads.

46% Vol.

As we looked through the 6 featured whiskies for this month, the range of flavors represented felt like a six-course tasting menu. We could imagine an appetizer of cereal toasted over hay (Deveron), quickly followed by a starter of citrus fruits in a toffee sauce (anCnoc). As we move into main courses, you have rich tobacco oil and chocolate nuts (Jura) and then a spiced curry of ginger peaches (Mortlach). No feast is complete without dessert, where you find baked apple pie (Balblair), and toffee banana candies to round everything off (Strathcolm).

- Ed Leigh and Evan Hirsch
TopWhiskies.com

AnCnoc, 18 Y

While the whisky is named anCnoc, it is actually made at a distillery called Knockdhu. Situated right outside of a small Scottish town called Knock, the distillery was founded in 1893 and is currently known for its sustainable approach to whisky production. AnCnoc is not a household name (yet) but has all the makings of a great single malt. The anCnoc 18 Y is a step up from their regular offering and has matured in Spanish oak ex-sherry casks and American oak ex-bourbon barrels. It has been neither chill-filtered nor colored.

46% Vol.

Deveron, 10 Y

The Deveron single malt hails from MacDuff distillery, located where the river meets the sea, near the mouth of the river Deveron. MacDuff is a comparatively modern distillery, built in 1960, and is an important component of the popular William Lawson blend. For a long time, it was owned by an Italian company which explains why the whisky is rather fresh and inviting. The Italians have had a decades long love affair with young fresh malts such as Deveron.

40% Vol.

Jura, 16 Y - Diurachs' Own

The Isle of Jura is one of the most impressive parts of Scotland. Only a few hundred people inhabit the island — they are far outnumbered by the thousands of deer that surround them. The distillery is situated in a town called Craighouse and sits at the heart of the island’s community. The people that live on the Isle of Jura are called Diurachs, which is why the Jura 16 Y is dubbed the Diurach’s Own. It is the whisky of choice for the people of Jura and signifies the special relationship they have with the distillery.

40% Vol.

Mortlach, 14 Y

Originally released as a travel retail exclusive, this Mortlach 14 Y is named Alexander’s Way. That’s Alexander Cowie, the former owner of the distillery who came up with the unique process of distilling the whisky 2.81 times. It makes for a very meaty and impressive spirit, which in turn resulted in the best nickname of any Scottish distillery, the Beast of Dufftown. The Mortlach 14 Y has been matured in refill bourbon casks and sherry casks and showcases some of the best this distilling giant has to offer.

43.4% Vol.

Balblair, 12 Y

Founded in 1790, Balblair is one of the prettiest distilleries in the whole of Scotland and certainly worth a visit if you’re ever in the Northern Highlands. In early 2019, Balblair’s entire core range was overhauled. The distillery used to release whiskies with vintages. Now they’re choosing a more conventional route, including age statements on the labels of all their whiskies. The Balblair 12 Y is the entry-level expression of the new range. It matured in a combination of ex-bourbon and double-fired American oak casks.

46% Vol.

Strathcolm, 8 Y

Strathcolm is a Scottish single grain whisky that has matured for 8 years. Rather than being made from malted barley like malt whisky is, most grain whisky is made from either maize, rye or wheat. It is also distilled in column stills. These types of stills allow for a continuous distillation process and are much more efficient than the copper pot stills that are used for single malt whisky. Strathcolm 8 Y is a perfect introduction into the world of grain whisky — an oft forgotten whisky variety that deserves your attention.

40% Vol.

Welcome to another exciting package from your friends over at the Whisky Tasting Club. Being a passionate lover of whisky, independent bottler and brand ambassador, it is my great pleasure to present to you the featured six whiskies for this month! This edition takes you on a trip through world whisk(e)y, six different brands from six different countries. From Irish newcomer Proper Twelve to Japanese highball star Chita—there is something for everyone.
Have fun exploring!
Sláinte!

- Torsten Zimmerman
The Single Cask ltd
Torsten Paul Whisky

Jack Daniel's - No.27 Gold

Jack Daniel’s is one of, if not the most iconic whiskey in the world. Made in Lynchburg - Tennessee, the distillery filters its whisky through charcoal, resulting in a exceptional smoothness. Called the Lincoln County Process, this procedure has been used for centuries for the classic Old No.7, but now Jack Daniel’s takes it a step further with their No.27 Gold. This whiskey is twice charcoal mellowed, as well as extra matured in maple barrels.

40% Vol.

Suntory - Chita

Suntory is the most famous producer of Japanese whisky. A few years ago, they released their first-ever single grain whisky, The Chita. Single grain is markedly different from single malt, which is to be made from barley only, while single grain can be made from all types of grains. The Chita matured in wine and Spanish oak casks, in addition to American white oak barrels. It’s an innovative grain whisky with and advanced level of complexity and a very clean and crisp experience.

43% Vol.

Proper - No. Twelve

Conor McGregor conquered the octagon, so now the mixed martial arts fighter is looking to conquer the world of Irish whiskey. Together with former Bushmills’ distillery manager David Elder he created Proper Twelve, a triple-distilled blend aged in ex-Bourbon casks. Proper Twelve is named after Dublin postal district 12 in which McGregor grew up. When it was first introduced in 2018, the initial supply was to last at least six months, but the whiskey sold out in less than a third the amount of time.

40% Vol.

Hellyers Road - Roaring Forty

Starting production twenty years ago, Hellyers Road is the largest single malt whisky distillery in Australia. The distillery was founded by a group of dairy farmers, who knew their environment was perfect for sourcing pure and quality ingredients. It took patience and tenacity, but they finally persevered. Hellyers Road - Roaring Forty, named after the 40 km/h winds blowing in the local rain clouds, has aged in white American oak barrels. A rare chance to taste whisky from (literally) the other side of the globe.

40% Vol.

Cotswolds - Odyssey Barley

Cotswolds Distillery is one of the most exciting new distilleries in the United Kingdom, Scotland included. With an emphasis on quality over quantity, Cotswolds has gained many fans since its opening in 2014. Their first ever release in 2017 was a wild success, and now with the Cotswolds - Odyssey Barley, the distillery is further building their reputation as a distillery to watch out for. Matured in ex-Bourbon casks and former red wine casks, this single malt proves the power of a young, yet skillfully made whisky.

46% Vol.

Rampur - Vintage Select

Over the past decade, Indian whisky has made a name for itself, with Amrut and Paul John leading the way. Rampur - Select is the latest Indian single malt whisky to make waves. Distilled at Radico Khaitan Distillery, which is situated in the foothills of the Himalayas, Indian grown six-row barley is used to make this whisky. Rampur - Select was already named one of the Top 20 Whiskies of 2017 by American magazine Whisky Advocate — and seems here to stay.

43% Vol.

Hello whisky friends, my name is Herman van der Meij and I am Scotch Whisky ambassador at Diageo. Working in the spirits business since 1985 and always had a preference for whisky. Whisky is perhaps the most vibrant spirits category. There is so much to discover in whisky and to share with friends. I always said; "The first bottle of whisky I have ever bought has been the most expensive. After that it doesn't matter anymore, you want to drink better and more beautiful, exclusive and perhaps therefore more expensive."

- Herman van der Meij
Scotch Whisky Ambassador Benelux
Life member of “The Keepers of the Quaich”

Glen Elgin, 12 Y

Glen Elgin is a little-known Speyside distillery, but for years the whisky it produced has been at the heart of White Horse, one of the world’s most famous blended whiskies. To this day Glen Elgin is a quality malt and highly sought-after for blends. Founded in 1898, little has changed in the 120 years since. Glen Elgin has never had much of a single malt presence—only the Glen Elgin 12 Y is widely available. It proves to be a great value single malt and a well-kept secret, waiting to be discovered.

43% Vol.

Talisker, 18 Y

Founded in 1830, Talisker long had the distinction of being the only distillery on the Isle of Skye. With the recent boom of small craft distilleries, that is no longer the case. However, Talisker is by far the oldest and most iconic distillery on the island. The Talisker, 10 Y is a classic, but the Talisker, 18 Y is a definitive step up. It is a masterpiece from one of the most legendary distilleries from Scotland and was named ‘Best Single Malt Whisky in the World’ at the World Whiskies Awards in 2007. Talisker; Made by the sea!

45.8% Vol.

The Singleton, 15 Y

The Singleton is not one distillery, but actually a family of three distilleries: Dufftown, Glen Ord and Glendullan. While Glen Ord and Glendullan are mainly available in the United States and Asia, The Singleton of Dufftown graces Europe with its presence. Until the opening of Roseisle in 2010, Dufftown was the largest distillery of Diageo. It was founded in 1896 and for years it was an important part of Bell’s Blended Scotch. The Singleton of Dufftown 15 Y has won many awards and is a reassuringly balanced single malt whisky.

40% Vol.

Oban - Little Bay

Nestling beneath the cliff that overlooks Oban, this unusual distillery is just a few short steps from the shore. Unusual in that it is an urban distillery, as well as a seaside one. The first official record of distilling at Oban dates from 1799, and ever since its reputation has kept on growing. Nowadays Oban is one of the smaller distilleries in owner Diageo’s portfolio, but its whisky is anything but. Oban Little Bay is married in Quarter Casks, the smallest casks available at the distillery. The result is remarkable, as it’ll transport you to the Scottish coast.

43% Vol.

Cardhu - Gold Reserve

Cardhu is one of the oldest distilleries in Speyside—illicit distilling started as early as 1811. Farmer John Cumming and his wife Helen started the operation, although research shows that Helen was in charge of whisky production. She would eventually be succeeded by her daughter-in-law Elizabeth. Currently, Cardhu is the spiritual home of Johnnie Walker, while its single malt Scotch is revered for its effortless and elegant Speyside character. Cardhu Gold Reserve is carefully crafted by master blender Matthew Crow, who selected the casks to create a mouth-watering whisky.

40% Vol.

Glenkinchie - Distillers Edition 2006-2018

While many new Lowland distilleries have popped up during the current whisky boom, there’s only a few that have been around for more than a decade—let alone a century. Glenkinchie was founded in 1825 and is home to some of the biggest copper pot stills in the whole of Scotland. Situated just 15 miles from the Scottish capital, Glenkinchie is sometimes dubbed “The Edinburgh Malt”. The Glenkinchie Distillers Edition receives a secondary maturation in specifically chosen Amontillado casks, ensuring a whole new layer of flavors and complexity.

43% Vol.

I was just 18 years old when I tasted my first single malt whisky. Three-and-a-half decades later, and I still enjoy a good dram every week. I also turned my passion into an enterprise. I founded WhiskyAuction & More, the first and only such auction in the Netherlands. We offer the most incredible whiskies on our platform. I also frequently host whisky tastings, and most recently I opened ‘De Kamper Slijter’, a bespoke specialist liquor store in my hometown of Kampen. I love to let people sample different spirits and igniting within them a new passion. I hope you enjoy the samples we’ve picked out for you this month!

- André van Dijk
whiskyauction-and-more.com

House of McCallum - MC of the Isles

House of McCallum is a new collection of Scotch whiskies crafted by Antony McCallum, an industry veteran with 24 years of experience as malt master, blender and creator in the Scottish whisky industry. Clan McCallum have their roots in the islands of the west coast of Scotland, so creating Mc Of The Isles, a blended malt, as an homage to that heritage only made sense. This coastal and smoky whisky was finished in a former rum cask, giving the spirit a new dimension to enjoy.

43.5% Vol.

Glenfarclas - Passion

Glenfarclas is one of only a handful of distilleries that is still family owned. While the Grant family may not have founded the distillery – that would’ve been Robert Hay in 1836 – they certainly made Glenfarclas into the success it is today, having been at the helm for over 150 years. Glenfarclas Passion is one of the releases in The Legend of Speyside trilogy, and honors the family ownership. The label depicts John Grant and his son George sharing a dram of their famous sherry cask matured whisky.

46% Vol.

Tomatin - Five Virtues, Water

As recent as the 1970s Tomatin was one of the largest whisky distilleries in the world. They have since downsized, and the quality of Tomatin has improved by leaps and bounds. Tomatin Water is part of the Five Virtues Series, the other four being Wood, Fire, Earth and Metal. These elements are central to the age-old processes employed by Tomatin’s distillery workers. Tomatin Water was created in honor of the naturally pure and soft water from the Alt-na-Frith burn, which is the private water source of the distillery.

46% Vol.

Tullibardine - The Murray

Tullibardine has a history that dates back over two centuries, but the current distillery was founded in 1949, when it became the first distillery to be built in Scotland since 1900. The Marquess Collection is inspired by Tullibardine’s history, of which The Murray expression is named after Sir William Murray, the 2nd Marquess of Tullibardine. This limited edition has been bottled following a second maturation in sweet Sicilian Marsala wine casks, after already spending significant time in first-fill bourbon casks.

46% Vol.

Auchentoshan - Bartenders Malt #1

Triple distillation used to be much more common in the Lowlands, but now Auchentoshan is the only distillery in Scotland to use triple distillation for all of its whisky. The Bartender’s Malt is a collaboration between 12 of the most innovative bartenders in the world. They spent a week at Auchentoshan in Glasgow, learning from the master blender how to create a one-of-a-kind liquid. The Bartender’s Malt is made up of whisky ranging from 5 different decades and has matured in a diverse range of oak casks.

47% Vol.

Glengoyne - Legacy Series

The distillery is located in the Highlands, but Glengoyne’s warehouses are situated just across the road in the Lowlands. Officially though, Glengoyne is a Highland whisky. Chapter One of Glengoyne’s Legacy Series is made as an homage to Cochrane Cartwright. This legendary distillery manager dramatically slowed down distillation in 1869, but he also famously introduced sherry casks to Glengoyne. His influence can still be tasted in the Glengoyne whisky of today.

48% Vol.

Often people view whisky as a drink that is traditionally poured during the dark and long winter months. But nowadays the whisky season stretches out over the entire year, from January till December. You can find a whisky that fits any season, although which exact one of course does depend on your own personal preferences. That’s why we composed a set that offers lots of different styles. From a few light and fruity examples, to something a little spicier and darker, to whiskies that are smoky. We even included a whisky that is specially released for Father’s Day. Enjoy!

- Team Tasting Collection

Aberlour, 16 Y

Aberlour Distillery has been the victim of several devastating fires in the two decades since it was founded, but was rebuilt each time. The current Aberlour Distillery was the brainchild of James Fleming and uses water from St. Drostan’s Well, situated on the site of the distillery. Currently, the distillery is known for its sherry-forward style of maturation, resulting in a sweet and spicy style of whisky. One such example is this Aberlour, 16 Y, a stalwart of a malt whisky that has rejoiced many whisky lovers over the years.

43% Vol.

Tomintoul, 14 Y

Tomintoul is a quintessential example of a distillery built during the whisky boom of the 1960s. The distillery is partly modern, partly traditional – Tomintoul was long used exclusively as an important component of many blends. However, with the current rising popularity of single malt whisky, Tomintoul is ready for a single malt audience. The quality is certainly there, and Tomintoul has clearly listened to their consumers. This Tomintoul, 14 Y is bottled at a respectable 46% without being chill-filtered. That deserves a round of applause!

46% Vol.

Inchmurrin, 18 Y

Inchmurrin is a fruity style of single malt whisky produced at Loch Lomond Distillery. It is named after one of the islands in Loch Lomond and produced in the signature straight-necked pot stills of the distillery. Loch Lomond is the only distillery in Scotland using these types of pot stills. As a result, Inchmurrin has its own very distinct style. This Inchmurrin has matured for a minimum of 18 years in oak casks, allowing nature to bring out the sweet character of the wood.

46% Vol.

Glen Scotia - Campbeltown 1832

The Glen Scotia – Campbeltown 1832 is an homage to the whisky region this distillery resides in, as well as the year the distillery was founded. The whisky sets itself apart because it packs a peatier punch than you’d usually expect from Glen Scotia. It also spent a final period of time in casks that previously held Pedro Ximénez – a sherry wine noted for its intense sweetness. Glen Scotia takes well to this kind of cask finishing, and the end result is an interesting balancing act between savory and sweet.

46% Vol.

Douglas Laing - Big Peat, Vatertag Edition - Batch #1

Big Peat is a marriage of malt whiskies only from the Isle of Islay. With Caol Ila spirit bringing sweetness, Bowmore representing perfect balance, Ardbeg infusing a medicinal and earthy quality, and Port Ellen a degree of elegance, Big Peat represents the entirety of Islay in a bottle. The brand was first launched in 2009 by independent bottler Douglas Laing. Since they’ve released many different editions, including the Big Peat – Vatertag Edition, Batch #1, which was made exclusively for Father’s Day.

48% Vol.

Tamnavulin - Double Cask

Tamnavulin is one of those distilleries that doesn’t have a very big single malt presence. Founded in 1966, it is also a relatively new distillery. Most of its production ends up in blends – like Whyte & Mackay or Mackinlay – but a small portion is bottled exclusively as single malt whisky. Tamnavulin – Double Cask is the first official bottling the distillery has released in over two decades. Double Cask refers to the maturation in two different cask types. Predominantly in bourbon casks, but the whisky is finished in former sherry casks.

40% Vol.

It's been a while since we introduced you to whiskies that are not made in Scotland. World whiskies are on the rise, because the climate differences with Scotland also give interesting differences in the whisky. This time we have, besides of course an Irish one, a beautiful Bourbon and a Japanese whisky. But also Switzerland is present this time and even Italy, where the really beautiful Puni distillery is located. We wish you a lot of fun with this May edition of Whisky Tasting Club!

- Team Tasting Collection

Kaiyo - Mizunara Oak

Mizunara is a quintessential Japanese type of oak. It is not the easiest to handle and poses all kinds of problems for coopers and whisky makers. Yet Japanese whisky that has matured in Mizunara oak is highly sought after, because it imparts certain unique characteristics and because it is very rare. Kaiyo Mizunara Oak is one of the few Mizunara matured whiskies available. Maybe most interesting is that all casks of Kaiyo go on a final 3-month voyage, to mature further at sea.

43% Vol.

Säntis Malt - Hilmmelberg

For a long time, distilling spirits from grain was not allowed in Switzerland. When the ban was finally lifted in 1999, the beer brewers at Brauerei Locher set out to create the first Swiss single malt whisky ever – Säntis Malt was born. Not surprisingly, the distillery/brewery is known for using old beer casks for maturation, like it does for its Himmelberg expression. What sets Säntis Malt’s Himmelberg apart though, is the further use of various wine casks, such as port, sherry and Merlot.

43% Vol.

Puni - Gold, 5 Y

While Italians have long been fascinated with Scotch whisky, they never really had any interest in producing their own whisky. That is, until Puni opened its doors in midst of the Italian Alps in 2012. Interestingly, Puni’s whisky is made not just from malted barley, but also from malted rye and malted wheat. Puni Gold is a limited-edition release and, according to the distillery, is the classic style of Italian malt whisky. It has matured exclusively in first-fill ex-bourbon casks in the distillery’s above-ground warehouses.

43% Vol.

Russel's - Reserve, 6 Y

Wild Turkey’s Jimmy Russel is the longest tenured master distiller in the world. For more than 6 decades he’s preserved the tradition at Wild Turkey, and to some he’s even known as the Buddha of Bourbon. Jimmy’s son Eddie was recently also appointed as master distiller – Russell’s Reserve is named after the father and son duo. Together they bring nearly a century of experience to the table when they craft Russell’s Reserve, 6 Y. It is an elegant rye whiskey that was introduced in 2007 and has been wildly popular ever since.

45% Vol.

Kavalan - Podium

From the moment its first whisky was released in 2008, Kavalan has been a major success. One of the highlights in the relatively young history of this Taiwanese distillery came in 2015, when one of its whiskies was awarded the title “World’s Best Single Malt Whisky.” Due to the warmer climate in Taiwan, Kavalan’s whisky matures at a different rate than it would in Scotland. Even at a young age, Kavalan is full of flavor and complexity, as the Kavalan Concertmaster demonstrates. Finished in ruby Port wine casks, it is rich and has a natural sweetness.

46% Vol.

Glendalough, 7 Y

The Glendalough Distillery is part of the Irish whiskey renaissance. It was set up by a group of friends with a passion for craft distilling. While at first Glendalough acted like an independent bottler, the first stills were installed in 2015 and they haven’t looked back. Their own distillate is now officially old enough to be called whiskey, but for some of their older releases – like this Glendalough 7 Y – the friends source their whiskey. It is an Irish single malt whiskey that has been matured in ex-bourbon barrels.

46% Vol.

Congratulations, you are about to indulge yourself with the most recent selection from the International Whisky Tasting Club. I started bartending 20 years ago, attended events and worked in several countries, including Scotland's best whisky bar of 2015, where I became a certified Whisky Ambassador. I assure you that this curated assortment features some beautiful liquids spread along the Highlands and Speyside regions. From a well structured Edradour expression, one of my very favorite distilleries, to a more delicate bottling by Glenburgie, along with other classic examples from both areas. All seasoned with a touch of smoke and salted caramel present in our delectable Glenglassaugh, released this past October. Slàinte!

- Rubén López
Whisky Ambassador – Bartender

Glenfiddich, 15 Y - Distillery Edition

Glenfiddich is the biggest fish in a very big pond. The distillery is situated in the heart of Speyside, the most important whisky producing region in Scotland. Back in the 1960s the distillery was one of the pioneers of single malt whisky, and they’re currently still a leading brand, selling the most Scotch single malt whisky in the world. This 15 years old Glenfiddich Distillery Edition is non-chill filtered and bottled at a high strength, setting it apart from its other brethren in the Glenfiddich core range.

51% Vol.

Glen Moray, 15 Y

Situated almost in a residential area, Glen Moray is one of the cozier distilleries in Speyside. Not because it’s a small operation, but because of its warmth and hospitality. If you’re ever in the neighborhood of Elgin, be sure to drop by to do a tour, or just for a cup of coffee and a dram in the excellent cafe. For now, this Glen Moray 15 Y will surely tide you over. This whisky is an amalgation of two cask styles, both ex-sherry casks and American oak, and will transport you to Glen Moray.

40% Vol.

Glenglassaugh - Octaves, Batch 2

For over two decades, it seemed like Glenglassaugh might never see life again. But then everything changed when a group of foreign investors revived the distillery in 2008. It has changed hands twice since then, but it should be clear by now that Glenglassaugh is here to stay. The fruity and honeyed whisky slowly gains popularity, not in the least because of the Glenglassaugh – Octaves Batch 2. It has matured in small casks of approximately 46 liters, supercharging the maturation process.

44% Vol.

Glenburgie, 15 Y - Ballantines Series 001

Ballantine’s is the world’s second best-selling Scotch whisky, selling over 80 million bottles every year. One of the key malt whiskies that is used to create Ballantine’s, is Glenburgie. In order to give fans of Ballantine’s the opportunity to experience the flavor of one of the core components of the blend, the Glenburgie,15 Y was released. Glenburgie was founded in 1829, and since has almost continually produced a quality single malt. It provides Ballantine’s with a sweet and grassy base.

40% Vol.

Signatory - Clynelish, 2008

Independent bottlers buy casks from distilleries and bottle them under their own label. Signatory Vintage is such a company, and they’ve acquired two bourbon barrels from Clynelish, a distillery that rarely releases official bottlings. That means this is an extremely limited bottling, totaling only a few hundred bottles. Clynelish is known for their waxy, fruity and slightly coastal whisky. This release by Signatory Vintage has aged for 10 years and is a fine example of what Clynelish is all about.

46% Vol.

Edradour - Bourbon Decanter

Edradour is one of the most traditional distilleries in Scotland. It was founded in 1837, but the current owner, Andrew Symington, bought the distillery in 2002. It was a dream come true for Symington, who restored the distillery to its former glory. Edradour has a small output, but a very loyal following. For this Edradour 2006 – Bourbon Decanter, Symington selected a few of his best ex-bourbon casks, and vatted them together at an impressive strength. Only 1,309 bottles were made available of this Edradour.

59.2% Vol.

I started out in the whisky industry over a decade ago, before the current whisky boom was in full flow. After launching the award-winning Usquabae Whisky Bar in Edinburgh, Scotland, I’m now the Auctioneer at Royal Mile Whisky Auctions, and the Editor of Edinburgh Whisky Blog. The whisky drinker has never before had so much choice, and this Tasting Club is the perfect way to explore the wonderful array of flavours and styles the category has to offer. Enjoy this month’s selection!

- Dr.Christopher White
edinburghwhiskyblog.com

Finlaggan - Cask Strength

On the Isle of Islay lies Loch Finlaggan. It is a place of great importance in Scottish history. The chiefs of Clan Donald chose Finlaggan as their home, and they quickly became known as the Lords of the Isles. They ruled the islands on the west coast of Scotland during the 13th to 15th century. Finlaggan Cask Strength is a single malt whisky named after the iconic loch, produced at one of the legendary distilleries of Islay. They won’t tell you which one, but you can be sure it is a heavily peated whisky, bottled at a very high strength. A true peat bomb!

58% Vol.

Ledaig, 12 Y - G&M

Gordon & MacPhail is one of the oldest, and certainly one of the most reputable independent bottlers in Scotland. They have a vast range of stocks, comprising of thousands of casks from over a hundred different distilleries, which they release under their own label. One such release is this Ledaig, 12 Y from their Discovery Range. Ledaig is a heavily peated whisky, produced at Tobermory distillery on the Isle of Mull. This particular edition has spent time in both bourbon and sherry casks.

43% Vol.

Glenrothes - Robur Reserve

This year it’s 140 years ago that the first pure spirit flowed from the spirit stills of Glenrothes, and the distillery has since continually produced high quality whisky. Glenrothes is located in the heart of Speyside and prides itself on their spring water, slow distillation, and sherry cask maturation, as well as bottling their whisky at natural color. The Glenrothes Robur Reserve is a travel retail exclusive, and is named for European oak, which is called Quercus Robur in Latin. Indeed, this is aged in a good proportion of first-fill Oloroso sherry casks.

40% Vol.

Lord Elcho, 15 Y

Lord Elcho was the eldest son of the 5th Earl of Wemyss, James Wemyss, which explains why he now has a whisky named after him. The Lord Elcho, 15 Y is a blended whisky from Wemyss Malts, the family that also owns Kingsbarns distillery. Lord Elcho was a staunch supporter of Bonnie Prince Charlie, but he was stripped of his title after the historic Battle of Culloden in the 18th century. He lives on through his whisky though, which is a composite of several malt and grain whiskies.

40% Vol.

Benromach - Triple Distilled

Originally built in 1898, Benromach was brought back to life when the Urquhart family purchased it in 1993. By that time the distillery had been closed for 10 years. Benromach is one of only a few distilleries in Scotland to use mostly traditional methods, without any automated machinery. Their whisky is known for having an old school flavor profile, inspired by Speyside whiskies from the 1950s and 1960s. While they usually only distil their whisky twice, they’ve released a special limited edition: Benromach - Triple Distilled.

50% Vol.

Deanston, 18 Y

It has an interesting background, as Deanston distillery is a former cotton mill, which first opened its doors in 1785. For more than a decade-and-a-half Deanston prospered, until the cotton industry declined after the Second World War. That’s when the community rallied and converted their cotton mill into a whisky distillery. The Deanston, 18 Y is a prime example of what the distillery is capable of. A finish in first-fill Kentucky bourbon casks gives this whisky a luscious flavor profile.

46.3% Vol.

As a freelance whisky writer and newspaper columnist for a Scottish newspaper, Aberdeen Press & Journal, I can think of few better ways to gain knowledge and exposure to new expressions than whisky tasting packs just like this. This month the International Whisky Tasting Club showcases an exciting and diverse selection for you to experience. There are Highland giants, Speyside stalwarts, a gentle Lowlander as well as a taste of Islay. Enjoy!

- Andrew Flatt

Macallan, 12 Y - Double Cask

Macallan is undoubtedly the most luxurious of Scottish whisky brands. In the past year, theirs was the first whisky to ever sell for more than 1 million euro at auction. They also opened a new state-of-the-art distillery that’s very much worth visiting if you’re ever in Scotland. Their Macallan, 12 Y - Double Cask is created from American and European Oloroso sherry seasoned oak casks, and is a fine example of why Macallan has such a high reputation. A wonderful harmonious single malt.

40% Vol.

Glenlivet, 12 Y - First Fill

One of the most popular single malts in the history of Scottish whisky, Glenlivet is the best-selling Scotch whisky in the United States, by quite a margin. With a history dating back to the late 18th century, Glenlivet has long been a shining example of excellence. Their standard 12-year-old expression is a staple in many home bars across the globe. Now they’ve launched a twist on that classic, which has matured exclusively in first-fill ex-bourbon casks. It is a welcome addition to the Glenlivet family.


40% Vol.

Glenmorangie, 12 Y - Lasanta

One of the most recognizable brands, Glenmorangie is one of just over a handful of distilleries situated in the Northern Highlands of Scotland. Lasanta is Gaelic for warmth and passion, a reference to not just the use of the sherry butts from Spain, but also to the soft and sweet characteristics of the Lasanta. Aged for 12 years, the Lasanta spent its first 10 years in American white oak ex-bourbon casks, before receiving an extra maturation in Oloroso and Pedro Ximènez casks.

43% Vol.

Dalmore - Regalis

Founded in 1839, each bottle of Dalmore bears an image of the Royal Stag. King Alexander III granted the Mackenzie Clan the use of this symbol in the 13th century. After descendants of the Clan became owners of Dalmore distillery, the Royal Stag was proudly displayed on Dalmore’s bottles, and has been ever since. The Dalmore Regalis, which means royal, is finished in first-fill Amoroso sherry casks following maturation in American oak, and promises a wealth of stewed and honeyed fruit.

40% Vol.

Bladnoch - Samsara

This Lowland distillery was founded in 1817, and up until a few years ago its future was uncertain. Bladnoch was closed in 2010, but an Australian entrepreneur bought it, and revived this historic Scottish distillery to its former glory. To celebrate this momentous occasion, the Bladnoch Samsara was one of three whiskies released in 2017. It doesn’t carry an age statement, but is said to be made up from 8-year-old whiskies, as well as older and rarer whiskies. Bladnoch produces a light, grassy and malty Lowland-style single malt.

46.7% Vol.

Bunnahabhain - An Cladach

Islay, the most legendary of whisky islands in the world, is known for distilleries that produce a heavy, peated, smoky style of whisky. Bunnahabhain is the exception to that rule, as this distillery on the north-east coast makes a much lighter, and more accessible malt than much of its Islay brethren. The An Cladach, which means ‘The Shore’ in Gaelic, has a rich sherry influence with aromas of fruits and malt, said to transport you to the shore at Bunnahabhain distillery.

50% Vol.

Can you believe it’s been five years already since we first launched the Whisky Tasting Club? That is quite the special occasion, and we’re honoured that you’re a part of it. To celebrate, we’ve put together something that’ll be sure to please you. Whisky nowadays is produced all over the world, and the whiskies we’ve selected are a fine representation of that development. Japan and Ireland are included, both fairly well known as whisky producing nations. But you’ll also find examples from Wales, France, Taiwan and India. We hope you enjoy your whisky trip around the world! Cheers,

- Team Tasting Collection

Akashi - Malt

Eigashima, the producer of Akashi whisky, has a long history, dating back all the way to 1888. Mostly known for their excellent sake and shochu, the modern history of the company started in 1984, when their current distillery was built. The first whisky made at White Oak distillery was released in 2007, and since then they’ve gradually built a loyal following. The Akashi Malt is a non-age statement release, and proves rather interesting for whisky enthusiasts looking to broaden their horizons.

46% Vol.

Powers, 12 Y - John's Lane Release

Once upon a time, John’s Lane in Dublin was one of the largest distilleries in the world. The distillery even had its own fire department, but now there’s not much left of this once glorious operation. It closed in 1974, and most of its buildings have been destroyed. However, the Powers brand is thriving. Now produced at the New Midleton distillery, this whiskey is a classic example of the Irish single pot still style, and is highly appreciated by connoisseurs of the Irish water of life.

46% Vol.

Paul John - Bold

Hailing from the tropical shores of Goa, along the west coast of India, comes the Paul John single malt. Their first whisky was introduced in 2012, and they’ve quickly made a name for themselves. The goal of Paul John is to be equal to or even better than single malts produced elsewhere, including Scotland. And it looks like they are succeeding. For Paul John Bold, one of the flagship expressions, they used peat from Islay, a legendary Scottish whisky island. The result is inspiring.

46% Vol.

Penderyn - Rich Oak

Four private individuals started the Welsh Whisky Company in 1998, and two years later they succeeded in opening the first Welsh distillery in over a hundred years. Penderyn distillery uses a unique type of still, differing their production process from their Scottish and Irish brethren. The whole process from wash to new make takes place in it. One of their latest releases is the Penderyn Rich Oak, which is finished in a selection of the finest rejuvenated European ex-wine casks.

46% Vol.

Yushan - Signature, Sherry Cask

Taiwan isn’t the most obvious choice of whisky producing nations, but in recent years a number of Taiwanese distilleries have released whisky, often to much critical praise. One of these distilleries is Nantou. The hot climate in Taiwan contributes to a different, quicker maturation process, as interaction with the oak casks is much higher than in colder whisky producing regions elsewhere in the world. Yushan Signature whisky is a classic example of what Nantou distillery is capable of. Prepare to be surprised.

46% Vol.

Armorik - Sherry Cask

Armorik is a whisky produced in Brittany, a region in France that shares many cultural and linguistic similarities to Scotland and Ireland, but especially Wales. Produced at Warenghem distillery, the name Armorik refers to the old Roman province of Armorica, which once encompassed the Brittany peninsula. While Warenghem was founded in 1900, they’ve been producing whisky since 1994. The Armorik Sherry Cask has aged in old Oloroso sherry casks, and is a balanced and rich drink.

46% Vol.

For more than 40 years I worked in the wine and spirits industry. During my career I held several positions, one of which was Diageo whisky ambassador. I hosted over 1,000 tastings in total, as well as customer whisky training sessions, both in The Netherlands, and sometimes also in Belgium. In April 2005 I was inducted as “Keeper of The Quaich”, one of the highest honors in the Scotch whisky industry. Now that I’m retired, you’ll find me on the golf course, but I also still love to educate people about whisky. I hope you enjoy this month’s single malt whiskies.

- Gerrit Duit
Keeper of the Quaich

Knockando, 15 Y

Founded during the distillery boom of the 1890s, Knockando mainly produces whisky for blends, such as the legendary J&B Blended Scotch. However, the Knockando single malt is not to be overlooked. It is designed to produce a light, nutty and malty character, and in each bottle of Knockando you’ll only ever find the produce of a single season - or year of production. It is a practice rarely seen in the whisky industry, and certainly sets Knockando apart from many of its Scottish brethren.

43% Vol.

Bowmore, 17 Y - White Sands

Founded in 1779, Bowmore has a storied history, and an exquisite reputation to boot. Compared to other legendary distilleries on Islay, Bowmore is medium-peated. An important part of the distinct distillery character stems from their own malting floor, which accounts for up to 40 percent of the distillery’s needs. The Bowmore White Sands has matured for 17 years in ex-bourbon casks, and derives its name from the white sandy beaches that inhabit the coast of Islay.

43% Vol.

Fettercairn - Fior

Set in the foothills of the impressive Cairngorm Mountains, Fettercairn distillery has been producing whisky for nearly two centuries. Once upon a time it was owned by Sir John Gladstone, father of four-time British prime minister William Ewart Gladstone. Fior is Gaelic for “true” or “pure”, and is a mixture of younger, heavily-peated whisky (15 percent), and older (14 and 15 year old), more traditionally made whisky. The Fettercairn Fior is aged in first-fill ex-bourbon barrels.

42% Vol.

Arran - Amarone Cask Finish

Part of the early wave of new distilleries in Scotland, Arran distillery has only been around for just over two decades. During that period the distillery managed to build an impressive reputation on the back of their outstanding whisky. After initially maturing in traditional oak casks for a number of years, the Arran Amarone Finish then received a final maturation in Amarone wine casks, sourced from an artisan producer of this iconic Italian red wine. The balance between whisky and cask influence is remarkable.

50% Vol.

Laphroaig - Four Oak

The largest single malt brand on Islay is Laphroaig, which is impressive considering some of the other illustrious distilleries on the island. Laphroaig is known for their heavily peated, medicinal whisky. Their Four Oak whisky has gone through an intricate maturation regime, and has seen the inside of four different casks: ex-bourbon barrels, small quarter casks, virgin American oak barrels and larger European oak hogsheads. The Four Oak is an extraordinary fusion of flavours.

40% Vol.

Glencadam, 13 Y

Situated near the east coast of Scotland, Glencadam distillery was opened in 1825 by founder George Cooper, and since then little has changed. It’s been a quiet brand for most of its existence, but it is slowly emerging from the pack as a single malt whisky to keep an eye on. This 13-year-old expression is dubbed “The Re-Awakening”, celebrating the re-opening of the distillery in 2003, after a silent period of three years. It’s a floral and malty whisky, with ripe fruit and soft vanilla notes.

46% Vol.

Hi there! Over here summer ended and at last the fall has started. I find that every season is the right one for a good dram! That’s why I organise a lot of tastings all throughout the year—in people’s homes or at bars, restaurants and whisky shops. I also frequently exhibit at festivals, where I bring collectable, discontinued and rare whiskies. My mission is to share my passion, and if requested, a little knowledge! Are you ready for another 6 lovely malts? It’s not that hard, is it? Although they’re not that common… Hope you’ll enjoy!

- Hayo van Weringh,
Whisky Ambassador
vanweringhswhisky.world

GlenDronach, 8 Y - The Hielan'

Founded in 1826, GlenDronach has made a name for itself for its excellent sherried whiskies, rivalling (and in the minds of some even surpassing) The Macallan as the premier sherried Scotch. However, the Glendronach The Hielan is somewhat different from the rest of the core range, having matured in a mixture of ex-sherry AND ex-bourbon casks. It leaves room for the impressive GlenDronach spirit to shine in this 8-year-old whisky, highlighted by aromas of orange blossom and golden sultanas.

46% Vol.

Balvenie, 12 Y - Single Barrel First Fill

One of the most iconic names in whisky, Balvenie was founded in 1892 on a site adjacent to another industry classic, Glenfiddich. Not surprisingly, the same family owns both distilleries. Balvenie is one of the few distilleries in Scotland to still operate its own malting floor. The Balvenie 12 Years Single Barrel First Fill has won many prices over the years, including gold at the Scotch Whisky Masters. Eacht bottle is one of no more than 300 drawn from a single first-fill bourbon cask.

47.8% Vol.

Jura, 18 Y

The Isle of Jura is one of the more remote parts of Scotland, and famous for the Paps of Jura, a range of mountains that can be viewed from the neighbouring Isle of Islay. The Jura Distillery was founded in 1810. Currently Richard Paterson, one of the preeminent master blenders in the whisky industry, is responsible for creating Jura’s gems—one of them being the 18-year-old expression. Finished in Premier Grand Cru Classé Bordeaux barrels, it is a unique spirit that has truly come of age.

42% Vol.

Glen Deveron, 16 Y

Glen Deveron is not a distillery. Instead it is the brand name for the whisky produced at Macduff distillery, a modern Highlands distillery built in the 1960s. Single malt whiskies from this distillery were rare, until parent company Bacardi re-launched the brand as part of their Last Great Malts initiative. The Glen Deveron 16 Years was originally released for Travel Retail, and has matured in both ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks. It is a fine example of a clean, classic Highland whisky.

40% Vol.

Port Askaig, 14 Y - Bourbon Cask

Named after the first port of call for visitors as they come across on the mainland ferry, Port Askaig is an undisclosed single malt whisky from the Isle of Islay. It is created by London-based Elixer Distillers, a whisky company that selects casks to create what they believe to be the most balanced single malt to come from the island. Previously Caol Ila and peated Bunnahabhain have been used to create Port Askaig. Whichever one was used, this 14-year-old edition perfectly represents what Islay is all about.

45.8% Vol.

BenRiach, 10 Y - Curiositas Peated

Distillery founder John Duff travelled to Kentucky and South Africa, in pursuit of whisky adventures. When he returned in 1898 he proceeded to build BenRiach. The distillery has one of the more versatile whisky ranges, from peated and unpeated to triple distilled and many exotic cask finishes. The BenRiach Curiositas uses heavily peated malted barley and ages for a total of ten years. It is an aromatic, smoky whisky, yet offering something vastly different than its peated brethren from Islay.

46% Vol.

I run 3006 Whisky, a high-quality independent bottling company in The Netherlands. As such I always look for casks that are different. You can play with various types of wood and with cask sizes and get a totally different whisky in the end. I make my own selection and decide when a cask is ready to bottle. Sometimes it is better to be patient and wait just a bit longer than to rush a whisky, which is how you should approach this month’s whiskies—with time and patience.

- Jop Boer
3006whisky.com

Glen Scotia, 18 Y

Once upon a time Campbeltown was known as the whisky capital of the world. It was home to more than 30 distilleries at the start of the 20th century, and mass-exported whisky to the United States. Nowadays, Glen Scotia is one of only three remaining distilleries in this small coastal town, known for producing a subtly peated, briny whisky. It’s 18-year-old expression is finished in Oloroso sherry casks, adding an extra layer of complexity to this already well-matured single malt.

46% Vol.

Loch Lomond, 12Y

One of the more intricate and interesting distilleries in Scotland, Loch Lomond is a relatively young operation. Built in 1966, Loch Lomond has different types of stills, and is capable of producing up to 13 different types of new make spirit. It gives master blender Michael Henry an endless amount of options when constructing the Loch Lomond whiskies. This 12-year-old for example, was blended from both unpeated and peated whisky. It is distilled in traditional pot stills, but also in Loch Lomonds trademark straight-necked pot stills.

46% Vol.

Bunnahabhain - Eirigh Na Greine

Bunnahabhain is an impressive distillery from the Victorian age, located on the Isle of Islay. Unlike most of its brethren on the island, Bunnahabhain mainly produces unpeated whisky. An example of this is the Eirigh Na Greine [pronounced ae-ree ne gray-nyuh], which means ‘Morning Sky’ in Scots Gaelic. Like the morning sky, this whisky glows amber gold. Setting it apart from other expressions from Bunnahabhain distillery is its maturation, which takes place exclusively in French Red Wine Casks.

46.3% Vol.

Cardhu, 12 Y

Cardhu, one of the oldest distilleries in Speyside, was founded in 1811 by farmer John Cumming and his wife Helen. Like many of his contemporaries, Cumming started out as an illicit distiller. Sometime later Cardhu became one of the first officially licensed distilleries in 1823. Currently Cardhu is also known for being the spiritual home of Johnnie Walker. Cardhu produces a typical Speyside Scotch single malt whisky – beautifully balanced and composed.


40% Vol.

Highland Park - Harald

The genesis of Highland Park is shrouded in myths and semi-truths. At various times the distillery might’ve been known as Rosebank, Kirkwall, and of course also Highland Park. Founded in 1798, the distillery embraces its Orcadian heritage. The Orkney Islands have a vast Norse history, and Harald Fairhair was the Norwegian king who also established the Orkney earldom. The Highland Park Harald was named in his honour, and matured in a mixture of American and European oak casks.

40% Vol.

Glenfiddich - Select Cask

The best-selling single malt in the world, Glenfiddich was founded in 1886. William Grant of Dufftown left his job as manager of Mortlach, another famous Speyside distillery, and started his own distillery. Glenfiddich is credited with popularising single malt whisky, when the decision was made in 1963 to bottle and promote Glenfiddich as a single malt. The Glenfiddich Select Cask has been matured in a combination of ex-bourbon, ex-red-wine and European oak casks, before being married in a solera vat.

40% Vol.

Welcome to yet another delicious package from the International Whisky Tasting Club. As a whisky writer and blogger, I write for many different international publications, and I’m glad that I can share some of my expertise with you. We’ve selected six different whiskies that provide an interesting cross-section of all that Scotland has to offer. From the subtle smoky goodness of the Islands, to a few more accessible whiskies from the Highlands and Speyside, including one very exciting new release from Aberlour. Enjoy!

- Thijs Klaverstijn
wordsofwhisky.com

Aberfeldy, 16 Y

In 1896, spirit trader John Dewar bought a piece of land from the Marquis of Breadelbane and built the Aberfeldy distillery. In 2015, this 16 year old was added to the Aberfeldy 'The Last Great Malts' range. The whisky first aged in Bourbon casks and then finished in Oloroso Sherry casks, giving the light and fresh character of the spirit more complexity and thickness. A very enjoyable whisky with a fine balance of sweet, fruity and spicy notes.

40% Vol.

Royal Brackla, 12 Y

Built in 1812 by Captain William Fraser. Competition from local illicit distillers led Fraser to look for other markets and he therefore sold much of its whisky in the Lowlands. Brackla was the first distillery in Scotland to receive a Royal Warrant from King William IV in 1835 and became known as 'The King's Own Whisky'. In 2015, 3 Royal Brackla whiskies were introduced in the series 'The Last Great Malts'. This one first aged in Bourbon casks and finished in first-fill Oloroso casks before bottling.

40% Vol.

Aberlour - Casg Annamh - Small Batch

Casg Annamh is Gaelic for "rare cask". Although this Aberlour whisky does not come from a single cask, it is compiled of carefully selected special casks, with the emphasis on first-fill Oloroso Sherry casks made from European oak wood. In addition, 2 types of casks made from American oak were used. The first batch is non-chill filtered. This Aberlour, with the right balance between sweet, fruity and spicy, is proof that even a 'no age statement' can be a beautiful whisky.

48% Vol.

Tamnavulin, 12 Y

The story of Tamnavulin began in 1966 in the rural village of Tomnavoulin. Although closed in 1995, they reopened in 2007. Led by Gareth Morgan, they craft single malt whisky with a true Speyside character. Hand selected oak casks are used, of which many go back to the 1960s, when the distillery was built, including Bourbon casks from North America and Sherry casks from Spain, to ensure their influence will complement and enhance the characteristics of Tamnavulin.

40% Vol.

Ardmore - Triple Wood

William Teacher's & Sons, a well-known family of blenders, started making whisky in their newly built Ardmore distillery in 1898. This Triple Wood matured in 3 different types of barrels: Bourbon casks, Quarter Casks and Puncheons. This maturation makes the whisky complex and gives it a nice balance between sweet and spicy tones. The malt was peated at 12 to 14 ppm, giving it a soft and subtle smokiness. The Triple Wood is non-chill filtered.

46% Vol.

Talisker Distillers Edition - Jerez Amoroso Cask

Founded in 1830, Talisker is the only distillery on the island of Skye. Talisker is also one of the 'Six Classic Malts'. Distilled in 2003 and matured in Bourbon casks. To indicate the richness of the Talisker single malt, the Master Distiller has selected a small number of casks for double maturation in which previously matured Jerez Amoroso Sherry. The result is a Talisker with beautiful Sherry influences combined with clear Islay aromas.

46% Vol.

It is an honour to present this August edition to you! Since a few years I have a passion for whisky and I give whisky tastings. It is because of this passion that I now work at Van Wees, where I am responsible for the sales of spirits and still give tastings. The 6 whiskies that I present to you are, in my opinion, certainly worth a try. I wish you a lot of tasting pleasure!

- Werner Bos

Macallan - Quest

At the beginning of this year Macallan released the Quest Collection. This series consists of 4 different single malts, of which this one is the first next to the Terra, Lumina and Enigma. The name 'Quest' refers to the time and effort that was taken by the Macallan team to find the best oak wood in which this whisky has been matured. This Quest is made from Single Malts, which comes from 4 cask types; Bourbon casks, European and American oak casks and Hogsheads.

40% Vol.

Scapa - Skiren

Located on one of Orkney's islands, the Scapa Distillery was founded in 1885 by Macfarlane & Townsend, with John T. Macfarlane at power. Also thanks to his contribution as an experienced distiller from the Speyside region, the new Scapa distillery at that time was one of the most modern distilleries in the world. Skiren is a new No Age Statement from Scapa, introduced in 2015 to replace the Scapa 16 Y. Skiren is fully matured on first-fill American oak casks.

40% Vol.

Glengoyne - 15 Y

The Glengoyne distillery is situated on the border of the Highlands and the Lowlands near Glasgow near the town of Aberfoyle. In 1833, one of the then 13 illegal distilleries was legalised. Initially called Burnfoot, it was renamed Glengoyne in 1905. The malt used by the distillery is dried with hot air. This, in combination with the slow distillation process, gives a whisky that is light in character. This whisky has matured for 15 years, mainly in Bourbon and first fill Sherry casks.

43% Vol.

Spey - Fumare

John & Robert Harvey started distilling whisky in 1770. In 1856 they completed the "Harvey's Codex" - the family recipe for SPEY whisky, but eventually they had to stop distilling. In the end it was one of their descendants, John Harvey McDonough, who started distilling again according to this old recipe. Fumare is Latin for 'smoky' and that's exactly what this no age statement whisky is; Spey's first peated single malt, first launched in 2016.

46% Vol.

Old Pulteney - Noss Head Light house

The northernmost distillery of mainland Scotland, Pulteney, is located near the town of Wick and was named after the then governor of the fishermen's association, Sir William Pulteney, when it was founded in 1826. This Noss Head is part of the 'Lighthouse Series'; 3 bottlings in honor of Pulteney's maritime heritage. This expression is named after the lighthouse located near the distillery. This whisky matured on Bourbon barrels and is un-chill filtered and bottled uncolored. Officially only available for travel retail.

46% Vol.

Muckle - Flugga

Muckle Flugga is a blend of 4 Single Malts that was shipped to Unst, near the Muckle Flugga lighthouse on the Shetland Islands. 2 of the 4 barrels in which these whiskies matured are made of staves from larger barrels that previously contained Scotch. The other 2 were made of German oak in Germany. The whisky spends a year on the island and survives the harsh seasons before returning to the mainland to be bottled.

40% Vol.

In an age where Single Malt Scotch Whisky was not as popular yet, Geert de Bolle started his whisky pioneer work in Belgium. Preaching the gospel of Scotland and its magnificent “Water of life”. 25 years and a few thousand tastings later, the same fire is still burning strong. Scotland has become a 2nd home to Geert, enjoying showing interesting places to people who also love whisky. Whisky is no longer only ‘the water of life’; it became his ‘way of life’!

- Geert de Bolle
Keeper of the Quaich

Macallan - Select Oak

The Macallan distillery was one of the first whisky distilleries of Scotland and was founded in 1824 at an undeep spot in the River Spey near the farm called Easter Elchies. This Macallan Select Oak matured in oak barrels selected by George Espie, their 'Master of Wood'. The American oak barrels, in which Bourbon matured earlier, give the vanilla tones. The European oak barrels, in which Oloroso Sherry has matured before, give the whisky the sweet and light spiciness.

40% Vol.

Mannochmore, 12 Y - Flora & Fauna

The Mannochmore distillery was founded in 1971 by John Haig & Co; at that time the most modern distillery in Scotland. It is located near the town of Elgin near the river Lossie. The whisky ages on refill Sherry and refill Bourbon casks. Although Diageo decided to discontinue the Flora & Fauna series in 2010, this Mannochmore is fortunately still available. This 12-year-old Single Malt matured in American oak casks and is also used in the blend of Johnnie Walker red label.

43% Vol.

Caol Ila - Distillers Edition 2000/2012

In 1846, founder Hector Henderson chose for his distillery a small bay on the Sound of Islay, a narrow strait between the islands of Islay and Jura off the west coast of Scotland. He wanted this place because the small puffer ships made their journeys to the mainland, slowly making him the largest distillery on Islay. This Distillers Edition is a limited edition and has matured on American oak barrels and, for sweeter tones, matured for some time on Moscatel Sherry casks.

43% Vol.

Edradour, 8 Y - Ballechin

Ballechin is the registered trade mark for the heavily peated distillates of Edradour, the smallest distillery in Scotland. To pay tribute to the efforts of the farmers who started the whisky production there at the time, the name Ballechin has been reinstated. This is an interesting release, where a Sherry cask for their unpeated whisky is mixed with 3 Bourbon casks of their peated whisky. This gives a wonderful balance of smoky and sweet tones. The whisky is unchill filtered and has retained its natural colour.

46% Vol.

Bowmore - Gold Reef

Built in 1779 by David Simpson, the Bowmore distillery is the oldest on the island. Because it is situated below sea level, ideal conditions prevail here. The new spirit ages in Sherry and Bourbon barrels. A number of warehouses around the distillery are still used. For the island's inhabitants, one of these warehouses has even been converted into a swimming pool, which is heated with recycled heat from the distillery. This Bowmore matured mainly on Bourbon casks.

43% Vol.

Muirhead's - Silver Seal, 16 Y

Muirhead's Scotch whisky was first produced by a whisky and wine merchant based in Edinburgh, Charles Muirhead and Sons, founded in 1824. Soon the company specialised in Scotch whisky, with the Silver Seal label representing a range of Speyside single malt whiskies. The brand has always maintained a close relationship with the Muirhead's Clan. Members of the old Muirhead's Clan were the royal guards of King James IV of Scotland in the early 1500s.

40% Vol.

Now that summer is approaching and you are likely to enjoy a well-deserved holiday abroad, our team of Whisky experts seized this opportunity to present you with these world whiskies. From Finland to Japan, from Sweden to Canada; whisky is now produced in many countries with the same passion and quality as we know from Scots. We hope that before you travel to your chosen holiday destination, you will already enjoy this world taste....

- Team Tasting Collection

Teerenpeli - Kaski

The Teerenpeli distillery, established in 2002, only uses domestic raw materials; Finnish malt from the local malting plant and fresh Salpausselkä groundwater, combined with traditional production methods and Potstill equipment of Scottish origin. Traditionally in agriculture, the crop was cut or burnt and the field was ploughed over (a Swidden). This gives the KASKI its name (the first phase of cultivation - a new beginning). KASKI is matured in selected Sherrycasks, which gives it the color of roasted brown sugar.

43% Vol.

Togouchi, 9 Y

Founded 1918, Chogoku Jozo does not distill whisky, but imports Scottish Malt Whisky and Canadian Grain Whisky. Only the maturing and blending they do theirselves which, according to Japanese law, is considered to be ‘production’ and is therefore called ‘Japanese whisky’. This whisky is aged in an old abandoned railway tunnel under the streets of Hiroshima, which turned out to be the ideal maturing place. This blend aged for 9 years and is named after the municipality of Togouchi, where the tunnel is located.

40% Vol.

Amrut - Two Continents

The Amrut distillery was founded in 1948 under the name 'Amrut Laboraties' and mainly produced rum. In the eighties they started to produce whisky. Amrut takes its barley from the foothills of the Himalayas, after which it ages in Bangalore at an altitude of about 1,000 meters. Amrut has taken a different approach with this 'Two Continents'. At first the whisky is matured in Bangalore, but for the last 3 years it matures on a secret location in Europe.

46% Vol.

Mackmyra - Svensk EK

"Why are there no whisky distilleries in Sweden?” is the sentence that inspired the idea for Swedish Whisky. In Sweden we find one of the purest waters in the world and during the long summer days the barley develops a unique sweetness; one of the cornerstones of Swedish Whisky. The Swedish oak grows slowly in the harsh climate which gives the whisky a harder taste than the American oak. The barrels are roasted heavily, giving the Whisky more character.

46.1% Vol.

The English - Original

Starting out as a pension project for the father of distiller Andrew Nelstrop, the family soon realised that making Whisky was what they wanted to do. They are now producing a series of award-winning peated and unpeated whiskies at St George's Distillery in Norfolk, leading to an increasingly popular movement of English whisky distillers. Both the water used and the barley are of English origin. 'The Original' has matured in specially selected Bourbon barrels and has a slightly creamy character.

43% Vol.

Black Velvet, 8 Y

This whisky was first produced in 1951. The brand was known at the time as 'Black Label', but after the first batch was sampled by Jack Napier, it was changed to Black Velvet. The Whisky is known for its velvety smooth taste. Black Velvet has been producing the 'Reserve' since 1991; an 8-year-old Whisky made by mixing the Rye of both aged and non-aged corn after which the mixture matures for 8 years, giving it a nutty and spicy character.

40% Vol.

Together with Hans Bresser, I have been the proud owner of Bresser & Timmer since 1993.
Before that, I worked for an importer for 6 years. So I can say that I have some experience. In the 90's there was hardly any whisky available next to the big, well-known brands. Then came the growth of both supply and demand. Over the past 25 years, this has created our great company, with long lasting relationships with loyal suppliers and our precious customers.

- Auke Timmer
Keeper of the Quaich

Teaninich, 10 Y - Cadenhead Small Batch

Established in 1817, the Teaninich distillery is located in the town of Alness. It is a lesser-known distillery, but among lovers of malty, fruity and spicy whisky, this Teaninich malt is very popular. This 10 year old has been bottled in a limited edition of only 684 bottles by the independent bottler WM Cadenhead for their Small Batch series. Teaninich is not often used as a Single Malt; it is more used in a selection of popular blends.


54.7% Vol.

Tomatin - Legacy

Tomatin was founded in 1897 in a very isolated environment, where the local inhabitants were mainly shepherds and cattle ranchers. That is why Tomatin started a staff building project. Since then, the distillery has been the heart of the community and vice versa. This heritage has been continued and Tomatin is still one of the few distilleries that offers a home to its craftsmen. The aging in Bourbon barrels and first fill oak barrels brings a slight sweetness to this Legacy.


43% Vol.

Islay Storm - Single Malt

The Vintage Malt Whisky Company was founded in 1992 by Brian Cook, who previously worked as a director at one of the largest distilleries in Scotland. The Vintage Malt Whisky Company develops its own brands and exports worldwide to 20 different countries and also owns Coopers Choice, of which you tasted the 2nd whisky in this edition. About this relatively young, but pleasantly daring Islay Storm, the bottler does not make any statements about the origin, so feel free to speculate about it.



40% Vol.

James Eadie Caol Ila, 8 Y- #2

The Caol Ila distillery was built in 1846. The single malts of Caol Ila are very scarce. This one comes from independent bottler James Eadie. James Eadie was a Scottish brewer who founded a major brewery in 1854 and had his own recipe for a Blended Scotch whisky. Of the original James Eadie whisky, only a few are left. This whisky matured for 8 years on refill Bourbon barrels and is bottled in an edition of 1189 bottles.



46% Vol.

Cooper's Choice - Glenrothes, 10Y - 2007 Port Finish

From the independent bottler, who states that their range of single cask whiskies from Scotland’s finest distilleries is their homage to the fine craftsmen and their important role in the Scotch Whisky industry. In recent years, it has become increasingly popular to “finish” matured malts for a further short period in casks which have previously held wines. This single malt from Glenrothes aged for 9 years and finished in a Port cask with an outturn of only 420 bottles.

54.5% Vol.

Kilkerran, 8 Y - Cask Strength

William Mitchell and his brother owned the Springbank distillery. In 1872, after an argument, he built his own distillery, Glengyle. Due to the deteriorating economy, the distillery closed. The new Mitchell's Glengyle Limited was founded by Mr. Hedley Wright in 2000. This whisky matured for 8 years on Bourbon barrels and was bottled at barrel strength. A very recognizable Kilkerran with a nice balance between the characteristic earthiness of Campbeltown and sweet influences of the bourbon barrels.

55.7% Vol.

This April edition is presented to you by Fernand Dacquin from Belgium. Fernand is a freelance journalist specialising in tourism and spirits. He writes for magazines in Belgium and the Netherlands. Since 1978, he has travelled around the world in search of beauty and taste, but Scotland remains his 'home'. The clan Hay took him in him as a' clan man' and the Royal Celtic Society enrolled him as their first foreign member. In 2011 he became 'Keeper of the Quaich'.

- Fernand Dacquin
Keeper of the Quaich

Edradour, 10 Y - 2008

Most of the instruments in Edradour's distillery date back to its establishment. Only sherry casks are used for maturing the malt. The 3 men who work there produce the same number of litres per year that another distilleries make in one week. Therefore, the whisky is called "The hand made malt". Actually, this Edradour 10 Y is an "official independent bottling", as since 2002 Signatory is the owner of Edradour. A treat for lovers of sherried whisky.

46% Vol.

Highland Park - Dark Origins

This bottling celebrates the early days of Magnus Eunson's illicit distilling on Orkney, back before the distillery was even founded in 1798. During the day, Magnus worked as a butcher and church official. However, at night he was a legendary whisky smuggler and distiller outwitting the exciseman. To honor their hero, Highland Park created a whisky with a suitably 'dark' character using 80% first-fill Sherry casks (20% refill) - 60% first-fill European oak and 20% first-fill American oak. An exciting, spicy whisky.


46.8% Vol.

Raasay - While we Wait 2nd Release

This 2nd release of Raasay While We Wait natural color and non-chill filtered Single Malt is limited to only 1974 bottles marking the year 1974 that Calum Macleod completed his hand-constructed road across Raasay. It contains the same level of peat as their first -award winning- release, but spent 18 months in Tuscan wine casks. This extra time gives bigger, juicier notes, and a heavier mouth-feel. While the first release shows off more smoke and spice, this second release is more rounded.


46% Vol.

Tomatin - Five Virtues, Metal

This symbiosis ‘Five Virtues’ is a concept based on the age-old processes and materials employed by Tomatin’s distillery men. Approaching alchemy, the process reveals nature’s extraordinary elements in all their glory. Wood, Fire, Earth, Metal and Water. Water feeds wood; wood sustains fire; fire gives life to earth; earth yields metal; metal gathers water; and the cycle continues… This ‘metal edition’, aged in Bourbon Barrels is the 4th of the expressions in this range. This edition is typically Tomatin; soft, sweet and light.


46% Vol.

As We Get it - Islay

Unique Cast Strength Islay malt whisky from Ian MacLeod. Bottled directly from the cask. Only the very best casks of the well-known distilleries are eligible for selection. With each new bottling, the whisky may differ in colour as well as in alcohol content due to the effect of the cask. These cask strength bottlings always have a different taste experience of the distillery from which the barrels come. Adding a drop of water gives you a completely different taste experience.

60.6% Vol.

Bowmore, 10 Y - Dark & Intense

This island's oldest distillery was built in 1779 by David Simpson. During the Second World War, the port of Bowmore served the British army. Dark & Intense is the youngest of a new trio of bottlings from Bowmore. All with age, of barrels matured in the legendary No. 1 Vaults. This one matured for 10 years on a combination of Hogsheads and Sherry casks of Spanish Oak wood and provides an exciting contrast between smoky and salty tones and sweet and spicy influences.

40% Vol.

This edition has been composed for you by Loek Fransen. Loek worked for International Marques from 1995 to 2010 as a brand ambassador, responsible for the brands Glenfiddich, The Balvenie, Kininvie, Monkey Shoulder and Grants. In 2004 he was appointed Keeper of the Quaich, of which he is a treasurer within The Dutch Chapter.

- Loek Fransen
Keeper of the Quaich

Glencadam, 15 Y

In 1825, George Cooper founded the Glencadam whisky distillery in the ancient city of Brechin. During its existance, the distillery changed hands several times. In 2003 Angus Dundee reopened the distillery as his second distillery, Tomintoul being the first. Glencadam is now the only distillery in the county of Angus, an area of the Highlands region of Scotland and synonic to world award winning whisky. This 15 years old was produced and matured with the knowledge of centuries of craftmenship.

46% Vol.

Auchentoshan - Blood Oak

Auchentoshan is located northwest of the city of Glasgow with views over the Clyde River. The distillery was probably built by Irish refugees in 1825. At Auchentoshan, instead of the usual 2 in Scotland, Auchentoshan is distilled 3 times. This Blood Oak is a limited edition intended for travel retail. The whisky is aged on bourbon casks and French red wine casks. This produces this fruity malt, beautifully balanced in spiciness and sweetness through the bourbon casks.

46% Vol.

Arran, 12 Y - Cask Strength

Isle of Arran Distillers is one of the few independent distilleries remaining. For this 12 years old Master Distiller James MacTaggart selected whiskies that matured on first-fill sherry butts, second-fill sherry hogsheads and first-fill bourbon barrels for a rich and powerful Arran with sweet fruit and spiciness of the sherry casks, while the bourbon casks provide soft vanilla tones. This whisky has a natural cask strength of 52.4%, has its natural colour and is unchillfiltered.



52.4% Vol.

Bruichladdich - Laddie Eight

Bruichladdich was founded in 1881 by Barnett Harvey. In 2012 Remy-Cointreau took over the distillery and, under the leadership of master distiller Jim McEwan, distillation and maturation is done in a modern way, but using traditional insights. Bruichladdich's malts are unchillfiltered and are bottled exclusively at the distillery. Careful management of American and European oak casks in the 8 years that this whisky aged eventually determines the final character of the whisky and is perfectly illustrated in this unpeated ‘Laddie Eight’.



50% Vol.

Glen Scotia, 10 Y - Legends of Scotia

Glen Scotia, founded in 1832, is one of just 3 distilleries in Campbeltown still producing single malt, along with Springbank and Glengyle. Before the US Prohibition was enacted, Campbeltown was the capital of Scotch whisky production. From the 28 distilleries, of which only 3 survived. This heavily peated edition is higher in strength than the standard 10 year old and part of ‘The Legends of Scotia’ series that honours Campbeltown's The Picture House being the oldest continuously operating cinema in all of Scotland.

50% Vol.

Loch Lomond - Peated

Loch Lomond is a family business, founded in 1814. This distillery is located in the Highlands of Scotland and has most whiskies matured in old oak casks and finished in sherry casks. This peated whisky is made traditionally, using malted barley and dried with peat, after that maturing on American white oak. The result is a whisky that tastes like when the Loch Lomond Distillery was founded in 1814: first fruit, then smoke and not too heavy.



46% Vol.

We promised you a 'round the world' in the previous edition, because although Scotland produces beautiful whiskies, many whiskies from other countries certainly are just as interesting. We travel with you to South Africa, America and even Italy and Japan, but also England, and The Netherlands are represented in this edition with whisky that you really must taste.

- Team Tasting Collection

Bain's Cape Mountain - Single Grain

A Single Grain whisky from James Sedgwick Distillery, founded in 1886 in Wellington, South Africa. This Grain whisky is the very first and so far only Grain from South Africa, invented by Andy Watts who has been Master Distiller since 1991. The base is corn, rye and barley, matured on first fill Bourbon barrels for 3 years and then on new American oak barrels for another 2 years. Namer is Andrew Bain, the man who built the first roads in Wellington.

40% Vol.

Togouchi - Kiwami

Chugoku Jozo is a liqueur, Sake and Shochu producer, their distillery, founded in 1918, is located in Akiota, near Hiroshima. Since 1990, they have been buying Malt and Grain Whisky in Scotland and Canada, maturing them in an old unused train tunnel 361 metres long. Because the Whisky matures only in Japan, it can be called Japanese Whisky. Kiwami means excellent in Japanese, this blend is made on a small scale for the French market.

40% Vol.

Frysk Hynder - Cognac Cask

A whisky from Friesland, Netherlands, first distilled in 2002 at the Us Heit brewery in Bolsward. The whisky first appeared on the market in 2005. When founder Aart van der Linden started making whisky, he was one of the first in the Netherlands. At Frysk Hynder they also have a small malting plant, they really do everything themselves in Bolsward. This Cask Strength has matured for at least 5 years on old cognac casks and entered the bottle undiluted.

48% Vol.

Roughstock Montana - Black Label

Roughstock is the first distillery in Montana USA for more than 100 years, opened in 2005 by Bryan Schultz in Bozeman. They only use barley, corn and rye from Montana and distil according to 4 different recipes. The Roughstock Black Label is a blend of these 4 different whiskey's that have come together in one barrel, Roughstock bottles the Black Label undiluted per individual barrel. A unique limited American whiskey.

61.45% Vol.

The English - Smoky

In 2006 the English Whisky Company opened the St. George distillery in the South English Norfolk. It was for the first time in more than 100 years that whisky was once again made in England. They work completely in the scottish way, making both peated and unpeated whisky. The Smoky is their first heavily peated English whisky with a smoke content of 45 PPM. The recipe was devised by Ian Henderson, former distillery manager of Laphroaig.

43% Vol.

Puni - Alba

After years of contemplation and planning, builder Albrecht Ebensperger quite literally laid the foundation of the first Italian whisky distillery in 2010. This Italian whisky is made with malted wheat, malted barley and malted rye. Alba is Italian for 'dawn', but also means 'Scotland' in Scottish Gaelic. Puni Alba is aged for 3 years in Sicilian Marsala casks before a finishing period in handselected casks that previously held peated whisky from Islay.

43% Vol.

When, just after the start, I came into contact with Tasting Collection, I was already very charmed with their ideas. Over the years I have been able to advise them on quality drinks. At the end of 2013, I had the honor of making the very first set for the International Tasting Club. Meanwhile, 4 months ago, I went to work for Tasting Collection; I work here as a kind of quality watchdog and put together this first set of 2018. I wish all you tasters a lot of fun with this set. And that there will be many to follow...!

- Jan Beek
Keeper of the Quaich

Campbeltown Loch, 5 Y

This whisky is named after the famous Loch near the fishing town of Campbeltown at the tip of the Kintyre peninsula and is a blend of Springbank and Longrow. Both whiskies come from the same stills, from the famous Springbank distillery. The lightly peated Springbank and the heavier peated Longrow together create a special blend; A combination of smoke, fruit, vanilla and herbs. This 5 year old has a value for money that is more than fine!

40% Vol.

Isle of Skye, 12 Y

A blend of Ian MacLeod. The name suggests that it partly contains a Talisker whisky, the only distillery on the Isle of Skye. At least Island and Speyside whiskies were used. A part of it could very well have been aged on sherry casks. All whiskies in this blend are at least 12 years old, which ensures a well balanced character. Dried fruit, light sherry tones and a nice touch of smoke. Those who have ever been on the island Isle of Skye are once again in thought on this beautiful island after the first sip.

40% Vol.

Auchentoshan - Heartwood

A 3 times distilled whisky, as it is a lowlander! The Auchentoshan Distillery was opened in 1825 by Irish refugees, which probably explains the light character. This Heartwood is named after the heart of the oak tree. The wood therefore plays an important role in this whisky. Aged on firmly roasted bourbon and Spanish Oloroso sherry barrels, it is a mix of 2 worlds. The whisky is soft, has citrus and the bitter of the wood comes back well. A true homage to the oak tree.

43% Vol.

Bunnahabhain - Cruach Mhòna

Cruach Mhòna is Celtic and means 'drying pile of peat'. And boy, can you taste this! Bunnahabhain is the only distillery on Islay that makes mostly unpeated whisky. Since 1997, they also produce peated whisky for a few months a year. This Cruach Mhòna is a great example. Sturdy peat smoke, as if you are near a burning peat stove, a hint of toasted bread and herbs. Pepper and licorice with fruit somewhere in the background. In short, if you are a lover of peated whisky, this one is well recommended.

50% Vol.

Signatory - Benrinnes 1997

This 1826 distillery is located at the foot of Ben Rinnes, the highest mountain of the Speyside. Bottlings of this distillery are very rare; All spirit is destined for blends. Still, you can discover a Benrinnes bottling with a so-called 'independent bottler'. They buy remaining barrels of whisky from blenders and let them age. This is also the case with this Benrinnes of Signatory. For many, this will certainly be a pleasant introduction.

43% Vol.

Linkwood, 15 Y - G&M

Peter Brown began distilling whisky in 1824, after his death he was succeeded by his son. From 1902 to 1932 Innes Cameron managed the distillery. After the Second World War reopened, administrator Roderick Mackenzie did not change anything; fear to affect the quality. By far the majority of whisky goes to Johnnie Walker, only a very small part of the production is sold by third parties as single malt, such as this 15-year-old whisky, bottled by Gordon & MacPhail.

43% Vol.

My name is Giannis and I love whisky. For me, whisky is a journey of flavors and aromas. I started exploring this wonderful world many years ago. All these years I have tasted numerous amazing whiskies and as a true whisky lover, I have also visited many distilleries in Scotland, with my backpack and camera. Ι have written many articles about whisky for travel blogs and websites in Greece such as Athens Voice and Mary Hop. I also run my whisk(e)y Facebook page (Giannis Whisky and Travel).

- Giannis Ekaterinidis

Compass Box - Great King Street Artist's Blend

With Great King Street we will rediscover the joys of blended Scotch whisky. All types of whisky drinkers can really enjoy this unique dram, from beginner to connoisseur. Fruity and spicy with a high proportion of malt whisky (about 50%). Seductive, and far too drinkable. High quality single Lowland grain, combined with Highland and Speyside malt whiskies and aged in 3 different types of oak casks. John Glaser did his magic tricks again! A great addition to the world of whisky.

43% Vol.

Glen Grant, 10 Y

This distillery was built in 1840 by the brothers John and James Grant. The construction of the Morayshire Railway, which was built right next to the distillery, was excellent for the supply of coal, peat and barrels and, more importantly, of course, the disposal of the whisky. This is one of the world's best selling single malts. Matured for 10 years in ex-Bourbon barrels, this Glen Grand was in 2013 awarded the title 'Single Malt of the Year' in its category.

40% Vol.

Craigellachie, 17 Y

The Craigellachie distillery was built in 1888 by P.J. Mackie and his business partner. Only 2 % of their production of maltwhisky is bottled as Single Malt. Contrary to the current trend of whiskies without an age indication, owner John Dewar & Sons decided to launch new or renewed bottles with his 5 distilleries, all of which have an Age Statement. It matured completely in barrels of American oak wood. Sweet, fruity and smoky, this is a fine example of the quality of this Speyside distillery.

46% Vol.

Glen Moray, 16 Y

In 1815, a beer brewery was built on the site of the distillery. In 1897 the brewery was converted into a distillery. The area of 'The o' Moray' was already known for its good quality barley at the time, because of the special climate in this area. This makes it 40 days longer in summer than elsewhere in Scotland. For this 16 year old Glen Moray one mainly uses Bourbon barrels, which are bought from the Makers Mark and Heaven Hill distilleries.

40% Vol.

Cooper's Choice - Laggan Mill, 8 Y

This whisky is an 8 years old, single cask bottling, matured from 2008 to 2016, of which only 400 bottles have been produced. The whisky is bottled by an independent bottler for the Cooper's Choice range. However, where this Laggan Mill comes from is a mystery, but it is said that Lagavullin is the distillery behind this whisky. This is a smooth whisky full of character with a sweet vanilla, fruity approach to a famous distillery. Certainly a must try.

46% Vol.

Paul John - Peated

The Paul John distillery in Goa, India was founded in 1992 as a producer of brandy and blended Whisky, the Original Choice; market leader in India. In 2008 Paul John also decided to start making Malt Whisky in 2 copper Pot Stills. The whisky ages in bourbon barrels in cellars with climate control. This light smoky variant is made with peat from Scotland. The Whisky went into the bottle undiluted at an alcohol percentage of 55.5%.

55.5% Vol.

My name is Mandy Silver and I own and run Curly Coo Bar in Stirling, Scotland. From 2009 on, I have managed to accrue around 150 different Malts (which of course is only the tip of the iceberg!) and pleased to say I have tried every one of them – some more than once!

The Coo was voted Best Whisky Bar in Scotland in the Scottish Field Whisky Challenge in 2015 and Best Whiskey Bar in the World!! (a USA site – hence the ‘e’ in Whiskey) in 2011, 2013 and 2017.

Whisky is such an amazing drink – all different with their own characters. I hope you enjoy the drams I have chosen for you.

- Mandy Silver

The Famous Grouse - Naked Grouse

The Naked Grouse was first released as a smoother, sweeter addition to The Famous Grouse extended family but no longer forms part of The Famous Grouse family of blended Scotch whiskies. All whiskies for The Naked Grouse are produced with only natural ingredients and matured in first fill Sherry casks of Spanish oak which results in a soft taste with a full Sherry character. Made with Highland Park and The Macallan, two of the world's most famous malts.

40% Vol.

Ardbeg - Corryvreckan

An Islay whisky from the Ardbeg distillery, inspired by the famous Corryvreckan; one of the world's largest 'maelstroms' (water with enormous whirlpools). This water has been identified by the Royal Navy as one of the most dangerous stretches of water on the British Isles. The experiments for creating this Corryvreckan started in 1999. This whisky has only matured on French Oak barrels. On this,he thanks his fruity expression and spicy tones, which form the heart of his complex character.

57.1% Vol.

Aberlour, 12 Y - Double Cask Matured

In 1826, the original Aberlour distillery was founded by James Gordon. This 12 year old whisky is, as usual with most of Aberlour's standard bottlings, 'Double Cask Matured'. For maturing Bourbon and Sherry casks are used. At the desired age, both types are combined ('marriage'). The bourbon cask give vanilla-like aromas to the whisky, while the Sherry casks provide more strength, sweetness and spiciness. Sherry casks, especially those of the Oloroso type, give the whisky darker a darker color.

40% Vol.

Jura - Superstition

Isle of Jura is said to be a superstitious Island. Peat is never cut before May and haystacks built in a clockwise direction. The ancient Egyptian symbol of the Ankh cross on the Jura Superstition bottle is rumoured to bring good fortune. If poured with the Ankh cross in the centre of your palm, they say luck will follow. This whisky is crafted from a selection of Jura single malt whiskies of different age and of which 13% is heavily peated. From the magical Isle of Jura in a world of it’s own.

43% Vol.

Aberfeldy, 12 Y

The distillery is located on the river Tay. John Dewar was the founder of this distillery in 1846, but his 2 sons made the company grow. As part of the series 'The Last Great Malts', this 12 years old was given a new look as one of the first whiskies, . But he remains the same soft whisky he was always. Fruitfulness, combined with tones of vanilla, honey and light spiciness.

40% Vol.

Knockando, 12 Y

This distillery stands of the river Spey, making it a Speyside Whisky. The name is derived from Gaelic ‘Cnoc-an-dhu’, meaning ‘little black hill’. Although distillation is continued throughout the year, each year of production is still referred to as a ‘season’ at the Knockando distillery and you will see the year of production on each bottle. Matured in refill bourbon casks, this is a delicate fruity dram with fresh almond notes.

43% Vol.

My name is Alexander Sourmpatis from Greece. Along with all I’ve done, I was certified for the BAR-5 program in New York, passed with distinction the Level 2 in Spirits of the Wine & Spirit Education Trust and develloped the cocktail program at The Mira hotel in Hong Kong. I’ve also trained local bartenders in Seoul, South Korea and in various other countries in Europe and the Middle East. I am honored to be able to present you this month's edition of Whisky Tasting Club and I hope you will enjoy this selection of these 'must taste' whiskies...

- Alexander Sourmpatis

Douglas Laing - Big Peat

Big Peat is a blended malt of Islay. Blended from Ardbeg, Bowmore, Caol Ola and Port Ellen (!) malts, this whisky is an absolute winner. We will never know how many Port Ellen is in the bottle, but it brings elegance and balance to the rest of the young malts. Big Peat is bottled in different alcohol contents and certainly if you can lay your hand on a cast strength, immediately open the bottle!

46% Vol.

Blanton’s Original - Single Barrel

The whiskey that set high standards of all single barrel bourbons worldwide. Bottled in Kentucky at Buffalo Trace distillery. All bottles come from the middle sections of the famous warehouse 'H', and the whisky has a good balance between sweetness, citrus and oak. It is aged 6 to 8 years and the specific warehouse brings more rapid aging results due to its metal construction.

46.5% Vol.

Finlaggan - Eilean Mor

This expression has been bottled at a slightly higher strength than earlier – non cask strength- Finlaggan releases. The whisky comes from an undisclosed distillery on Islay. It’s well known that Finlaggan used to be a Lagavulin, now we don’t know if it still is. There is no distillery known making it, though we have some hints it may be, apart from Lagavulin, a Caol Ila or a Laphroaig. It is named after Finlaggan Castle, the seat of the feudal Lord of the Isles.

46% Vol.

Lagavulin, 8 Y

The Lagavulin distillery was founded in 1816 and is located on the southern coast of Islay, where the' Lords of the Isles' reigned centuries ago and their fortress kept out strangers. Lagavulin celebrated their 200th anniversary with this Limited Edition, inspired by the visit that Alfred Barnard made to the distillery in 1885, when he tasted a whisky which he considered to be "exceptionally fine". The whisky matured on refill barrels of American oak.

48% Vol.

Mackmyra - Iskristall

It all started with 8 friends in a ski resort. Now the Mackmyra malts are produced in 2 distilleries, using ingredients, all available within a radius of 120 km from Mackmyra village. This bottling of just 300 bottles, finished in ex-Pedro Ximenez drums, is part of the Mackmyra Seasonal's Collection, a series of limited editions with an unusual finish. Mackmyra is constantly trying to evolve. That's why there are many barrels in their warehouses with special characters to discover.

46.1% Vol.

"Born in the year that John F. Kennedy was killed, Reinier Paping won the 'Elfstedentocht' and Glenfiddich was introduced as the first single malt whisky in the Netherlands. I grew up in Amsterdam in the backyard of the local Wine Shop - 'Winery'. How striking my study Chemistry: or was my purpose 'Alchemy and finding the life elixer'? The passion for a fair product came around that time. Very honored to compose this Club edition for you in the year of my 25th anniversary in the spirits industry."

- Frans Lambregts
General Manager Fine Drinks

Rittenhouse - Bottled in Bond

A special and classic Rye Whisky. Coming from one of the 3 remaining original Rye distillers. Ride house has been produced since the beginning of the last century and is loved by bartenders and whisky lovers. Perfect in a Manhattan or Old Fashioned and nice spicy to purely enjoy. Rittenhouse Rye is a bottled-in union under American law; the distillate must have been produced in 1 distillery during one distilling season under the supervision of the US authorities and must have been aged for at least 4 years. Always 100 Proof.

50% Vol.

West Cork - Black Cask

A few decades ago, one dominant distillery for all Irish brands produced spirit. Luckily, the number of distilleries in Ireland also increases. West Cork is Ireland's most southern distillery. West Cork only uses pot stills for production. Black Cask is aged on first fill Bourbon barrels with a finish on extra-burned barrels. This gives a beautiful vanilla sweetness.

40% Vol.

Evan Williams - Single Barrel Vintage

One of my personal highlights this year were the visits to different distilleries in Kentucky USA. Europeans are 'barrel managers'; What type of barrel can we add to the whisky? The Americans put the priority at the beginning of their whiskey process; The ingredients, the composition of the 'mash' and the type of yeast. After distillation the wait is on how the whiskey will develop in the barrel. This Evan Williams Single Barrel Vintage will remain with you; the only Bourbon with harvest year listing.

43.3% Vol.

Lost Distillery - Jericho Archivist

De missie van The Lost Distillery Company is om nieuwe expressies te creëren van legendarisch Schotse whiskydistilleerderijen, die al langer dan een eeuw geen whisky meer produceren. De Jericho-distilleerderij sloot haar deuren in 1913. Met behulp van diepgravend onderzoek heeft een team van experts nu het smaakprofiel van Jericho nieuw leven ingeblazen. Daarvoor hebben ze vakkundig een aantal single malt whisky’s van moderne distilleerderijen geblend. Het resultaat is indrukwekkend.

43% Vol.

Balvenie, 17 Y - Doublewood

My first acquaintance with Balvenie was in the late 80s with The Balvenie Classic 18 Y. I still keep a little remainder, of which I take a nip every year. Although the alcohol content has fallen drastically, it remains a beautiful product. In 2012, this 17 year old DoubleWood was released at the 50th anniversary of Master Distiller David Stewart. He is undoubtedly the "inventor" of finishing and with this edition he approaches the Classic 18 Y with which he has indulged me for thirty years. Super!

43% Vol.

Finlaggan - Port Finished

A real 'value for money' whisky. Jim Murray once wrote: "Brilliant, this is simply awesome. If you do not get a bottle of this, you'll regret it for the rest of your life." This Old Reserve with a finish on Port pipes is highly recommended. Clear Islay features, complemented by the soft tones of matured port. The higher alcohol percentage helps to enhance the flavors. Be sure to purchase a bottle soon. Finlaggan Finish Port Finish appears to be available limitedly.

46% Vol.

Hi there, I’m Derek Mather, born and bred Scot; owner and chef of Artisan Restaurant and whisky snug. My love for whisky started as a boy of sixteen, when my father gave me a Glenlivet, 12 Y at Hogmanay. When I opened my restaurant 9 years ago I put 60 bottles of my collection on the bar and this has now grown to just over 3000 bottles of whisky over the years, of which Bruichladdich is my favourite.

- Derek Mather

North Star - Port Dundas, 12 Y

Glasgow’s Port Dundas distillery was built in 1811 at the highest point in the city. Another distillery, Cowlairs, started operation soon after and in 1860 the 2 sites merged. However, in 2011 the new owner Diageo decided to close the distillery. This particular one is their Single Grain Scotch whisky which was distilled in August 2004 and set aside to age until October 2016, when it was bottled by North Star Spirits with an outturn of 318 bottles.

58.8% Vol.

Glenturret - Sherry Cask

The Glenturret distillery is the oldest working distillery in Scotland, where' The 5 men of Glenturret' still highly value true craftsmanship. In 1775, the first (then illegal) distillery called Hosh Distillery, was built and changed its name in 1875 to Glenturret. This Sherry Cask Edition is matured on a combination of American and Spanish oak oak, previously used for Sherry. This gives a taste of sweet herbs with soft oak wood in the background.

43% Vol.

Kilkerran, 12 Y

After a quarrel with his brother, when he owned the Spingbank distillery together with him, William Mitchell built his own distillery in 1872, which he called Glengyle. After the original release in 2016, it would be this 12 years old, that would become Kilkerran's standard bottling. After initial delivery problems, it is now available again. This whisky matured on a combination of 70% Bourbon and 30% Sherry casks. Un-chill filtered and without coloring. A classic whisky of old-fashioned quality.

46% Vol.

Tomatin - Cù Bòcan

The Tomatin distillery produces a slightly peated (15 ppm) whisky for the blended industry one week a year. Only a small quantity of Tomatin is marketed as Single Malt whisky, most of it used for blended whiskies. This has now been done for this bottling. The whisky has matured on a combination of virgin oak and Bourbon and Sherry barrels and is un-chill filtered. It is an initial batch of 18,000 bottles.

46% Vol.

Single Cask Exclusives, Islay

Creative Whisky Company was founded in 2005 by David Stirk, who previously worked for The Whisky Magazine and Cadenheads in Campbeltown. This is a single malt whisky from an unnamed Islay distillery, bottled by The Creative Whisky Company in their Single Cask Exclusives; a series of affordable single cask bottling. This is bottled in 2017 at 50%.

50% Vol.

Paul John - Brilliance

From GOA in India and, as expected, angels get a whopping 8% share compare to our average of 2% a year. 3000 litres of spirit a day is being produced. Once they are filled into American white oak casks they are stored in an underground cellar. This fantastic whisky is a nice bourbon cask whisky with demerara sugar, cinnamon and honey on the nose. On the pallet, sweet and spicy with honeycomb with a slight hint of cocoa.

46% Vol.

Hello whisky lover!

Thank you for considering this Whisky Tasting Collection Club edition. I am Sietse Offringa, Brand Ambassador for Edrington in Europe. I visit over 20 different countries annually to talk with professionals, press and enthusiasts alike about my favourite topic: whisky. I grew up with it and am proud to be part of an industry filled with wonderful people, passion and history. And I love to share 6 of my all-time favourites with you!

- Sietse Offringa
Brand Ambassador "Edrington"

Highland Park, 10 Y

The Highland Park distillery is located on the Orkney Islands north of mainland Scotland. The legal distillery was established in 1825. The barrels used to age the new spirit are refill, Bourbon and Sherry barrels. This whisky is an exclusive variant, only available on the Dutch market. Max MacFarlane, one of the Master Distillers of Highland Park, has found a perfect balance between soft smokiness and a sweet, spicy finish for this 10-year-old whisky.

40% Vol.

Bruichladdich - Port Charlotte, Scottish Barley

The Port Charlotte distillery was built in 1829 by Colin Campbell. This whisky is entirely distilled from indigenous Scottish barley varieties. The spirit is peated to a sturdy 40 ppm. The casks have been carefully selected by Master Distiller Jim McEwan, who states that, in order to enhance the character of younger whisky, an alcohol prcentage of 50 is ideal. At lower percentages, the aromas of the wood are more pronounced. Beautiful balance between the floral elegance of Bruichladdich and firm peat smoke.

50% Vol.

Maker’s Mark - Red Top

I was a Scotch boy when I learned to appreciate whisky. Only Scotch, preferably malt. Fortunately I came to love whiskies from all over the world, for every country makes their own great whisky in their own way. The hand-dipped bottle of Maker’s Mark was one of these eye-openers. Full-flavored, round and an easy finish. Great combination of sweet corn and gentle winter wheat. And a perfect match for raw blues music.

45% Vol.

Knob Creek - Rye

When you have a bourbon, you should also have a rye. Slightly more spicy because of rye being the dominant grain in the mash bill and still full-flavoured from the American white oak barrels. Knob Creek specifically has nailed this. Round mouth feel, versatile for cocktails due to the high ABV and a lasting impression in the finish. Named after the boyhood home of an iconic protagonist for equality: Abraham Lincoln.

50% Vol.

Macallan - Edition #2

A feast of flavours chosen by a quartet of masters. Macallan’s Whisky Maker Bob Dalgarno teamed up with the Roca brothers from El Cellar de can Roca (in Barcelona, voted the best restaurant in the world several times in a row). These gents brought their preference and unique take on flavour to the table for Edition 2. They even printed the recipe on the box! Rich, sherry-style, 48.2% ABV. Liquid happiness!

48.2% Vol.

Cutty Sark - Blended Scotch

The Wine & Spirit Merchants Berry Bros, founded in London in 1698, launched this blended Scotch in 1923. It was named after the fastest clipper that at the time sailed across the world's seas: the Cutty Sark. Due to the high quality requirements of Berry Bros, Cutty Sark has developed into a premium brand of excellent quality. When the blending of the barrels is complete, the blend is left to mature for another 6 months or so before the whisky is bottled.

40% Vol.

I'm Wullie Macmorland, Keeper of the Quaich, born and bred Scot, now living in the Netherlands for 40 years. My whisky life began when the father of my best friend poured me a whisky to warm up after a hunting party, I was just 13. In the year 2017, 46 years later, 30 years owner of Dutch's oldest whisky restaurant HIELANDER, organiser of the Hielander Whisky Festival and the Meeting of the Minds symposium whisky in Scotland. I also write for several whisky magazines on whisky and food, I am also the Founder and President of the Ben Nevis Whisky Club Alkmaar.

- Wullie Macmorland
Keeper of the Quaich

Antiquary - Blended Scotch

The distillery was established in 1897. The new spirit is left to mature in refill Sherry as well as ex Bourbon barrels. The water used for whisky production comes from the Alt-na-Frith Burn. Only a small amount of Tomatin is marketed as Single Malt Whisky, the majority is used for blended whiskies, as is this 'entry issue' of the Antiquary blended Scotch whisky range.

40% Vol.

Glenmorangie, 10 Y - Original

Ever since the establishment of the distillery in 1843, Glenmorangie has been combining tradition and innovation resulting in award-winning whiskies worldwide. The stills are the highest in Scotland, so that only the lightest and purest vapors reach the highest point and condensate . This whisky has been matured by the 'Sixteen Men of Tain' for 10 years on Bourbon barrels (American Mountain Oak casks) in the traditional warehouses of the distillery. To guarantee optimum taste, they use the barrels only 2 times.

40% Vol.

Talisker - 57º North

The only distillery located on the island of Skye, founded in 1830. Talker 57° North refers to its location at the 57° latitude and has matured in carefully selected American oak barrels. Bottled at an appropriate strength of 57%, the strength and uniqueness of Talisker stand out even better. With its above-average peat aromas and salty, spicy character, Talisker is a real powerhouse; a malt you have to learn to drink. "Talisker: The golden spirit of Skye.

57% Vol.

Càrn Mòr - Glenrothes, 9 Y

Morrison and Mackay are independent Scottish bottlers. This family business is committed to offering the best that Scotland has to offer. The experience of 3 generations of Scotch Whisky, its own bottling and blending facility and a dedicated team ensure a product of fantastic quality. This Single Barrel whisky comes from a Sherry Butt, distilled in 2007, of which only 920 bottles have been bottled. A traditional Glenrothes, but with an extra twist of the Sherry.

46% Vol.

Omar - Sherry Cask

The Nantou Distillery in central Taiwan is one of a number of distilleries owned by the state, but the only one making whisky. They began to produce the whisky back in 2008, the mash, wort and wash then produced by a nearby brewery. In 2010 a German mash tun and washbacks were installed to produce its own wash. 100% malted barley is used to distil this single malt. This expression was aged in Sherry casks, is non-chill filtered and without coloring.

46% Vol.

Old Perth - Red Wine Cask

This Old Perth is a blended whisky, released by the Master Blenders of Morrison & MacKay. It is a blend of specially selected malt whiskies, which have had a finish in red wine barrels. Bottled at 58.1%, this whisky is a cask strength without coloring and non chill-filtered. Red fruit and dark chocolate, clear Sherry tones; all wrapped in a jacket of sturdy red wine.

58.1% Vol.

I am Yiannis Korovesis and I am working in the drinks industry for more than 15 years. Founder of Bitterbooze.com, Greece’s biggest and longest running drinks specialized website. A bartending instructor for Le Monde Institute of Hotel & Tourism studies and recently the owner of Borsalino bar in Athens. I’ve visited dozens of distilleries across the world, as well as wineries and bodegas. A certified sherry educator and a foodpairing.com ambassador. But most important, a devoted whisky lover.

- Yiannis Korovesis
bitterbooze.com

Compass Box - Spice Tree

Inspired by the blending pioneers of the early 19th century, John Glaser, the founder of Compass Box, creates original new whiskies by blending different (malt) whiskies of various ages. Glaser invented an entirely new maturation process. After the first maturing on first-fill Bourbon barrels, the whisky is transferred to refill barrels with heavy-duty cask heads from new French oak. 3 toasting levels are applied to obtain more complexity. This second maturation may take up to 2 years.

46% Vol.

Yellow Spot, 12 Y

This amazing whiskey reflects exactly the style of old traditional Irish whiskies. A single pot still, what means that it has been made from malted and unmalted barley, that Mitchell and Sons still produce, as they did lots of decades before. A super finely made whiskey, aged for 12 years, giving out generously sweet fruity notes and some wine flavors. All three different types of barrels that have been used to age this beauty contribute to its high complexity. If you love Irish whiskey that’s one you should definitely try.

46% Vol.

Teeling - Single Malt

Teeling was founded by Jack Teeling. After years of service to the Cooley distillery, he started for himself. First as an independent bottler, with the aim of distilling himself again. With this Single Malt, the first generation of Teeling whiskies is complete. Despite the 'No Age Statement', the oldest used whisky has matured for 23 years. 5 different types of wine casks have been used: Sherry, Madeira, Port, Bourgogne Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon. This combination is unique in Irish whisky and gives it a unique character.

46% Vol.

AnCnoc - Black Hill Reserve

In 1892, John Morrison bought the estate as well as the farmhouse Knock in the Highlands. Knockdhu means ‘black hill’. The whisky is bottled as a single malt under the name AnCnoc, which also means ‘black hill’ in Gaelic. Black Hill Reserve is a No Age Statement whisky with no artificial coloring and no chill filtration. Released as one of 2 Travel Retail expressions, launched in the first half of 2015, this is an impressive single malt which matured in first fill ex-bourbon casks.

46% Vol.

Elijah Craig, 12 Y - Small Batch

I don’t know whether Elijah Craig indeed was the first to produce bourbon as we know it but I know for sure that this is a typical American whiskey that showcases the charring technique of the barrels. So, you get straightforward aromas of vanilla, toasted wood, caramel and spicy fruits when you approach your nose close to your glass of Elijah Craig. Creamy texture and mouthfeel, along with corn sweetness, make this a very friendly and palatable, sipping whiskey. And with 12 years on its back. And we all know what that means in the states, don’t we?

47% Vol.

In the coming months, a number of whisky experts and enthusiasts will be composing more editions for you. This month of April our team again has collected some 'must-tastes' for you. It has become a nice, wide selection of Scots, of which 2 Islay's, 1 Highland and 1 Speyside, accompanied by 2 'World Brothers'. Just because we see that the demand for non Scotch whisky increases and our members are curious about what the rest of the world has to offer in fine-malts. Enjoy!

- Team Tasting Collection

Benromach, 10 Y - 100º Proof

With Benromach's restyling, also this 100 Proof is added. Aged for 80% in bourbon barrels, for 20% in sherry hogs heads and a finish of one year on first-fill Oloroso casks. Bottled at 57%. The designation '100 Proof 'originates from the imperial system, and translates to the metric 57%. 'Proof' is derived from the ancient practice of skeptical sailors to test the strength of their rum ration. To this end, they mixed the drink with gunpowder and if the mixture ignited, the strength was "proved".

57% Vol.

Nikka - Coffey Malt

Japan can be counted in with the serious whisky producing countries. So serious, that the Miyagikyo distillery could well afford itself an experiment and presented this whisky as the result. Normally column stills are only used for the production of grain whisky. However, Nikka distilled a herd of 100% malted barley in their Coffey stills; an older type of column still, developed by Aeneas Coffey. The result is a surprisingly rich whisky with remarkable smoothness.

45% Vol.

Arran, 10 Y

The distillery uses unpeated malt in the production process. Therefore the Arran whiskies do not have the typical smoky flavor, like other Island whiskies. This 10 year matured malt is presented as Arran's base-malt with age indication. It is a classic Arran with the known characteristics of this distillery; soft sweet, fresh and fruity with delicate notes of barley. In 2014, twice awarded with the gold medal of the World Whisky Awards and Silver at the International Spirits Challenge.

46% Vol.

Kavalan - Ex Bourbon Oak

After several single cask, cask strength bottlings under the soloist-label, Kavalan thought it was time for a more continuous version. About 4 years fully matured in a combination of first- and refill casks. Reduced in strength with local spring water to 46%. The whisky is filtered cold, however at a higher temperature than usual. This leaves more flavors preserved in whisky, while it is completely clear.

46% Vol.

Port Askaig, 8 Y

Specialty Drinks is an independent bottler, who focusses on bottling small batches from different Islay distilleries. This 8 Years Old Port Askaig is the youngest so far with age indication and was selected from a series of exceptional barrels Islay single malt and is being part of a series of Islay classics. Also with this 8 years matured malt, it's not announced by which distillery this malt was originally produced, but you can appropriately assume that, aigain, it's Caol Ila.

45.8% Vol.

Glendronach, 12 Y

The Glendronach distillery was originally built in 1826 but has been out of use for ages. After its reopening in 2002, the complete range from 12, 15 and 18 years old was reintroduced in 2009. The character of this whisky arises from a combination of the Glendronach own malted barley, peat and water from the Highlands. This malt matured for 12 years in a combination of Oloroso and Pedro Ximenez barrels. Silver medal winner in the International Wine & Spirit Competition 2013.

43% Vol.

At the age of 27, Reinhard Pohorec has gained wide recognition as international sensory and spirits expert, encompassing everything related to smell, taste, aroma and flavour, with a particular focus on fortified wines and spirits. Pohorec has many titles to his name including Certified Advisor of Spirits, Mixology Newcomer of the Year, World Class Bartender, Sake Sommelier as well as the world’s youngest Cognac and Sherry Educator. He composed this edition, relating to his personal encounters with the passionate creators of the whiskies he presents to you; "The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen", as called by Reinhard.

- Reinhard Pohorec

Compass Box - Hedonism

Master distiller John Glaser started his own blending company in 2000, always doing things slightly different: full of transparency, focusing on best quality spirit, wood influence and constantly challenging traditions. Hedonism is a luscious Grain Whisky, blending together the juice from different Scottish distilleries, aged in first fill American standard barrels and rejuvenated hogsheads (slight variances from batch to batch).

43% Vol.

Ragtime - Rye

It takes hard work, dedication and courage to start a distillery from scratch, even more so in the middle of New York City. Allen Katz has been a leading expert and figure in the spirits industry in the United States. However at the New York Distilling Company he truly feels at home now. Fabulous gin, old school Rock & Rye and the fairly recent addition to the family Ragtime Rye: NYDC boasts an array of top-notch spirit.

45.2% Vol.

Lot No. 40 - Rye Whisky

From an early age some of us have big plans and clear visions: whether they want to become a heroic firefighter, astronaut or doctor of medicine. Rarely though do we hear people aspire to call themselves whisky professor. Dr. Don Livermore is just that, due to his MS and Ph.D. in Brewing & Distilling from Heriot Watt in Edinburgh. As master blender for Hiram Walker / J.P. Wiser’s he’s the go-to expert on all things grain, distilled and aged in wood.

43% Vol.

Nikka Taketsuru - Pure Malt

Dedication, dignity, passion, perfection. Japanese culture exerts fascination unlike any other, breeding craftsmen who honor tradition, foster their skills and create products of highest standards. This is certainly and particularly true for Japanese whisky, which evolved from a little known curiosity to a serious all-time classic on the global whisky map. It’s because of gentlemen like Shinjiro Torii and Masataka Taketsuru that we get to indulge on these precious liquids full of harmony and balance.

43% Vol.

Woodford - Reserve

If you were a connoisseur, back in the day Single Malt Scotch was the only way to go. Only over the past couple of years American Whiskey and Bourbon in particular re-gained their places among the finest brown spirits there are. Woodford Reserve has been at the forefront of highest quality Bourbon and Chris Morris perfectly balances tradition with modern elements, technique and craft.

43.2% Vol.

Laphroaig - Quarter Cask

The first impression might be rather severe, bold, a little rough around the edges. Laphroaig Single Malts, as their master distiller John Campbell, are characterful creatures, but on second glance, you’ll discover a most charming grin, heartfelt sincerity and warmth. Big, long lasting impressions, smoke, peat, a smoldering camp fire – an intriguing mix of wild nature and luring comfort.

48% Vol.

As days become longer and nights become shorter again, we'd like to present you 6 whiskies that our Tasting Collection expert team chose. Each with a different style and signature. Because that's what we feel is most important about tasting whisky; learning about the background of distilleries and the people who produce them with passion. And finding your favourites amoungst them. We hope you enjoy this next trip on our whisky adventure! Cheers!

- Team Tasting Collection

Wolfburn - First Release

Wolfburn is located on the outskirts of Thurso and is the northernmost distillery of mainland Scotland. In principle, only unpeated malt was used, but since 2014 they started making also peated whisky. Master Distiller is Shane Fraser. He previously worked at Royal Lochnagar and Oban and was Distillery Manager at Glenfarclas for 7 years. This malt was distilled from unpeated malt and matured on quarter casks from Laphroaig. Despite his youthfulness he has structure and a nice balance. A beautiful, pure, honest, whisky with sometimes a trace of smoke from the casks.

46% Vol.

Highland Park - Svein

The Highland Park distillery, founded in 1825, is located on the Orkney Islands, north of Scotland. Svein was the Viking chieftain, whose legendary acts constitute the heart of the 'Orkneyinga saga'. This bottling is part of Highland Park's new 'Warrior series'. Along with Einar, Harald, Sigurd, Ragnavald and Thorfinn honored again as Highland Park Nordic heritage. The differences between the different warriors are reflected in the proportion of European oak barrels Sherry which are used for the different bottlings.

40% Vol.

Glen Scotia, 15 Y

Glen Scotia was founded in 1832 and is one of the 3 distilleries, still active in the Campbeltown region and also one of Scotland's smallest distilleries. Each barrel is selected and judged by the Master Blender, John Peterson. This one matured for 15 years on barrels of American oak and is bottled un-chill filtered at a strength of 46%. A full, rich and complex whisky with a nice balance between sweet, fruity, fruity, spicy and bitter tones.

46% Vol.

Glenfarclas, 21 Y

The 3 wash stills and 3 spirit stills at Genfarclass are not heated with steam, but with gas burners under the stills; something very unusual at Scottish distilleries. The new spirit matured in new sherry casks, but also on refill sherry casks. The water comes from the streams of Ben Rinnes. This malt won 'Silver Outstanding' at the International Wine & Spirit Competition and 'Master' on the Speyside Single Malts 19-30 YO 2015.

43% Vol.

Auchentoshan - American Oak

Auchentoshan is distilled from malted barley, non-peated. A special feature of this single malt is the 100% triple distillation, which yields a particularly soft and smooth whisky. Auchentoshan is unique in this, not only in the lowlands but in the whole of Scotland. This single malt whisky has a delicate character from aging in only first fill ex-Bourbon barrels from the United States.

40% Vol.

Ardbeg, 10 Y

The Ardbeg distillery is located on the south coast of Islay. All the beautiful delicate iodine aromas of Islay are represented in this malt. To maintain all existing and authentic fragrances they decided at Ardbeg not to chill-filter the whisky. The maturation of the new spirit of Ardbeg takes place in new and refill bourbon casks. The rich flavors, smokiness and peat, melt together into a whisky of absolute wealth of flavor.

46% Vol.

I’m Steve from Somerset Whisky Blog, a review, news and opinion website based in the UK. I have toured 60+ distilleries, mostly in Scotland, but also elsewhere in the UK. I have gone from being a “peat freak” to a “sherry bomb” lover, and these days I like a broad selection of tasty, affordable whiskies that I can enjoy without having to spend too much time appreciating them, I like them to be good from the get go.
With that in mind, here is my personal selection…

- Steve Prentice
somersetwhiskyblog.com

Cameron Brig - Grain Scotch

Cameron Brig is a defamation of Cameronbridge. Founded in 1824 as Cameron Bridge by John Haig in 1824, it was also known as the Haig distillery. This is a young single grain, which is quite light in character. Young grainwhisky can often be a bit hard and sharp in tone, but that is not the case here. Pleasantly soft and with a fruity sweet, this is an easy drinkable whisky and a nice alternative for anyone who wants something else.

40% Vol.

Hazelburn, 10 Y

Campbeltown is the smallest whisky area in Scotland. It used to be an abundance of local barley and peat, a paradise for illegal stokers. This 10-year-old version is the successor of the Hazelburn, 8 Y, and together with the 12 Y it will form the core assortment of Hazelburn. The whisky aged completely on Bourbon casks and was bottled for the first time in 2016. This whisky is beautifully balanced. The many fruit tones provide a nice counterbalance to the full and sweet character of the whisky.

46% Vol.

Bunnahabhain, 12 Y

The Bunnahabhain distillery is located in the northeastern part of Islay and is built on the estuary of the Margadele River. The first new spirit left the distillery in 1882. Little has changed or modernised in the distillery so far. Launched in the summer of 2010, slightly daring and with a higher alcohol content of up to 46.3%, no chill-filtering and no added coloring, this new version of the 12 year old is a huge step forward.

46.3% Vol.

Lagavulin - Distillers Edition

To finish, one of my most favourite drams, and one that doesn’t seem to have been presented to you before. It’s the royalty of Islay, and with the addition of some secondary maturation in Sherry it’s a late night sipper to relax and enjoy, giving you a huge Islay hug as if to say you’re home and all your cares can go away. Superb whisky. Your empty glass will continue to smell wonderful for hours and hours. Slàinte!

43% Vol.

Ledaig, 10 Y

Moving on to another favourite of mine, a much more heavily peated whisky, from the same owners as Bunnahabhain on Islay. This whisky comes from Mull and is made with the same love with no colouring or chill-filtration. A drop of water might help if you’re not into the slight tar and spice notes. It helps bring it down a wee notch, but you still get good maltiness. Also giving it a bit of space and time to breathe can help here too.

46.3% Vol.

Nikka - Pure Malt, Black

Masataka Taketsuru built his first distillery, the Yoichi, in 1934, following Scottish example in northern Japan. In 1969 the Miyagikyou joined in there, near Tokyo. Yoichi makes a peated Whisky, Miyagikyou makes a much softer, non peatedWhisky. In the middle of Japan stands the Tochigi distillery where they only make Grain whisky. The Pure Malt is a blend of the 3 distilleries, with the emphasis on Yoichi. Firmly with a light trace of smoke.

43% Vol.

Tom Thomson was born and raised in Glasgow, Scotland. Receiving a bottle of Glenmorangie, 10Y on his 18th birthday was the catalyst to the whisky adventure he's currently on. Over those 23 years he has visited many of the distilleries in Scotland and beyond, and helped set up 2 whisky clubs. In 2012 his love of whisky set him on the route of blogging and his website enjoys great popularity. He also writes for whisky magazines, both in print and online, and even does podcasts. He now is Store Manager of a Whisky and Cigar shop in Edinburgh

- Tom Thomson
tomswhiskyreviews.com

Peat's Beast - Cask Strength

Fox Fitzgerald was founded in 2010 by MD Eamonn Jones who, after a career of more than 20 years in the beverage industry, started out for himself as an independent bottler, but also represents other brands. Peat's Beast was introduced as the first brand in 2010. Besides the regular Peat's Beast, there is also this Cask Strenght version. More intense, more powerful, more mature. The sweetness being supported by the extra alcohol, its rambunctious character is somewhat curbed, which leads to a nice balance and an intense taste.

52.1% Vol.

Connoisseurs Choice - Balmenach, 2008

Balmenach Distillery was established in 1824 by James MacGregor. The Distillery is now owned by Inver House Distillers Limited, a privately owned distiller whose other distilleries include Speyburn-Glenlivet, Knockdhu, Balblair and Old Pulteney. This 2008 vintage Balmenach single malt mainly goes into blended whisky, but a small amount gets out through independents like Gordon & MacPhail and was bottled in 2016 as part of their long-running Connoisseurs Choice range. This one was aged in a combination of Bourbon and Sherry casks.

46% Vol.

Kavalan - Concertmaster

Taiwan's first whisky distillery is located in the north-eastern part of Taiwan in the Yilan area, about an hour's drive from the capital Taipei. The distillery was established in 2005 and built in 9 months on a large flat area between 2 mountain ranges. Since 2008, Taiwanese whisky has been a 'thing'. This single malt whisky utilises Ruby Port, Tawny Port and Vintage Port casks from Portugal to finish whiskies that were initially matured in American oak.

40% Vol.

Signatory - Clynelish, 1998

The Clynelish distillery is located in the north of Scotland near the town of Brora. In 1968, a new distillery was built next to the old Clynelish (Brora) distillery. Brora closed down permanently in 1983 and the warehouse and filling store now serve the new Clynelish distillery. The Clynelish Single Malt is mainly used for blended whiskies. However, this is a Single Malt Clynelish. He was distilled in May 1998 and matured over 17 years on Hogsheads.

43% Vol.

Glenturret - Triple Wood

Established in 1775, the Glenturret Distillery is Scotland's oldest distillery. The rugged environment there made it since the 16th century already perfectly suitable for illegal whisky distillers. When the distillery was being built, an official permit was also issued. This Triple Wood matured on a combination of Bourbon barrels and Sherry casks of American and European oak, creating a light, sweet and creamy whisky with a wonderfully soft, slightly peppery aftertaste.

40% Vol.

Glenkinchie, 12 Y

The distillery was once named Kinchie, but is known as Glenkinchie since 1837, and is situated not far from Edinburgh – resulting in the nickname “The Edinburgh Malt.” Whisky from the Lowland region is known for its light and floral character. After comprehensive testing, the Classic Malts distillers unanimously decided that 2 years of extra aging in American oak gives Glenkinchie a richer profile, without losing its essential Lowland character. This Scotch single malt is also used in many Johnnie Walker whiskies.

43% Vol.

This Club Edition was composed by Ruben Luyten, the author of WhiskyNotes.be, one of the longest running whisky blogs (since 2008) on which news and tasting notes appear on an almost daily basis. He was elected International Whisky Blogger of 2015 and was Glenrothes Vintage Maker 2012 and also publishes about sherry on SherryNotes.com for several years now. Although on his blog he often focuses on European independent bottlers, this time it are the official bottling, although from all over the world. 4 of them are (partly) matured in sherry casks, how could it be different?

- Ruben Luyten
whiskynotes.be

Benromach, 5 Y

Benromach was built in 1898 and is located in the far west of the Speyside. The distillery had a turbulent history of closures and takeovers. Gordon & MacPhail bought the buildings in 1992 and built a whole new distillery there, which was opened by Prince Charles in 1998. This whisky matured for 5 years on 80% Bourbon barrels and 20% Sherry Casks. In addition to a hint of smoke and citrus, it has a grassy, slightly buttery character.

40% Vol.

Connemara - Distillers Edition

I personally like peated Irish whiskey, which is slightly different from what is produced on Islay. The Distillers Edition has been aged in bourbon barrels and was finished on Oloroso cask. Originally only for the French market, now widely available. Dark aromas of smoke and earth, combined with sweet berries and a spicy hint.

43% Vol.

Aberlour - A'Bunadh, Batch #55

In 1826, Aberlour was founded by James Gordon. In 1879, the new owner James Fleming moved the distillery to where it still is today. A'Bunadh's batches follow each other faster and faster, thanks to a combination of increasing popularity and smaller runs. With the issuance of each new batch, it is striking that this classic constantly remains at a very high level. While you enjoy this 55th batch, the next batch of The Original has already been published.

60.9% Vol.

GlenDronach - Cask Strength, Batch #4

One of my favorite batches of this cask strength version, a blend of Oloroso and Pedro Ximenez sherry casks. A lighter profile than what we know from the single casks. A beautiful fruit mix, yellow raisins and apricot. Some candied ginger and cinnamon. Very nice, juicy whisky with plenty of punch thanks to the full cask strength.

54.7% Vol.

Nikka - All Malt

The choice of founder Masataka Taketsuru for production in the far north of Japan is based on Scotland's similar weather conditions. The average winter temperature is 7° lower and the summer temperature is 9° higher than in Scotland. This slows down the aging process in winter and accelerates it in summer. This is a blend of Pot Still whisky (Yoichi and Miyagikyou) and Column Still whisky (Miyagikyou). Both types of stills were, quite unique, fed with malted barley. A' malt blend' as it were.

40% Vol.

Smooth Ambler - Old Scout, 7 Y - Rye

Founded in 2009 by Tag Gaylean and John Little, Smooth Ambler Spirits set out to produce fine artisan spirits by combining patient Appalachian know-how with the finest of American ingredients. Being long time residents of the Greenbrier Valley, both Tag and John knew that they wanted to make something that would leave a mark on Greenbrier County and the folks that call it home, something to be proud of. A Classic American straight rye whiskey with 95% rye and 5% malted barley matured for 7 years.

49.5% Vol.

The composer of this edition is Bram van Glabbeek, passionate whisky lover and chairman of the independent Dutch whisky association, the Usquebaugh Society.

"Since my first introduction to the golden fluid in 1987, I'm on a quest for the ultimate whisky, which still has to be found. However, my conclusion is already: it tastes better in good company because together you enjoy more."

- Bram Van Glabbeek

Kilbeggan - Irish Whiskey

This is a traditional Irish whiskey of the same "family" as Connemara, the 4th whiskey in this edition. 2 times distilled for more flavor and character according to ancient recipe. The Kilbeggan distillery lies in the middle of Ireland in the eponymous town. It is the world's oldest working distillery and has a rich history. Therefore, it is more than worth a visit; you feel centuries back in time.

40% Vol.

Buffalo Trace - Bourbon Whiskey

American whiskey is on the rise. There is a wide choice of affordable expressions. The Buffalo Trace is made by the most distinguished distillery in the world, according to the traditional 'Bourbon rye recipe 'and matures at least 8 years in American oak barrels. An accessible bourbon whiskey, nicely balanced between sweet taste, slightly smoky, herbal and softness. A wonderful whiskey and a beautiful stepping stone to an American reconnaissance.

40% Vol.

Millstone - 100 Rye

This bottling is especially made for Usquebaugh Society and is a fairly typical small batch Zuidam Rye: it differs from all their other bottlings and is made as an experiment. A relatively short maturation of 6 1/2 years, but bottled at an unusually low cask strength of 43.4%. The combination of the Dutch climate, bottling in lower strength and a decent time in the barrel produces this particular rye whisky.

43.4% Vol.

Inchmurrin, 12 Y

Named after the island in the lake at Loch Lomond Distillery. This is exactly on the border between the Highlands and the Lowlands, but the malts of Loch Lomond are still counted among the Highlands. For many fans this 12 year old malt was this years' surprise of the whisky show in London. Fruity, slightly sweet, mint, apples, Calvados. Just a nice whisky which many people will love.

46% Vol.

Signatory - Glen Garioch, 25 Y - 1990

Of course this edition must have an exclusive whisky. With our association, each year, we bring a whisky selected by the members themselves. With our 25th anniversary last year our members came to this excellent choice. A little smoke, some fruit, caramel, vanilla, apricots and a lot of strength with this whisky at cask strength.

56.7% Vol.

Connemara - Original

Irish whiskey is soft, without smoke and delicious" is a popular saying. This is only partly true, because Connemara is the only peated Irish Single Malt whiskey. This 'forgotten' traditional distillation method, combined with natural ingredients and long-term aging in oak barrels make this whiskey the deserved winner of the gold medal in The International Wine and Spirits Competition 1996. An Irishman with a delicious smoky shadow and a distinctive flavor!

40% Vol.

Davin de Kergommeaux is the author of the award-winning book, Canadian Whisky: The Portable Expert. He has also contributed to or co-authored 4 other books about whisky, and 2 about spirits and cocktails. He spent 6 university years studying whisky grains and has been a Malt Maniac since 1999. His writing appears regularly in Whisky Magazine and various lifestyle publications. Follow him on twitter and instagram @Davindek.

- Davin De Kergommeaux
@Davindek

Amrut - Peated CS

Bangalore is very warm so whisky is matured in a cellar to help slow down the maturation process. This whisky combines Indian barley from Rajasthan with peated barley imported from Scotland. The peat reeks of wood smoke, subdued on the nose with plentiful fruity aromas. On the palate toffee and caramel come to the fore, followed by peppery notes and gingery spices then the scent of a campfire.

62.8% Vol.

Lagavulin, 12 Y - Cask Strength

Distillery visitors remark on the water supply, turned brown by dissolved peat but none of that contributes to the sweet smokiness of the whisky. Rather, Port Ellen maltings supplies all the malt, peated over Islay smoke. Whiskies lose peat over time and this one is significantly smokier than the 16-year-old core bottling. Sweet with ripe fruits and loads of medicinal smoke. Outstanding whisky, a benchmark, in fact.

54.4% Vol.

Johnnie Walker - Double Black

According to Master Blender Jim Beveridge, this Double Black was created from the Johnnie Walker Black Label. With access to some of the largest and most diverse stocks of older Scotch whiskies in the world, Johnnie Walker Double Black has been created. Each whisky is matured in a different way, depending on the special carateristics of wood, climate and location. The art of the Master Blender is to blend these whiskies into one with an extraordinary palette of flavors.

40% Vol.

Laphroaig, 10 Y

Laphroaig was founded in 1815 by the brothers Alex and Donald Johnston. The distillery is located on the south coast of Islay, near the port town of Port Ellen. Since the 1990s it has been a very popular Single Malt since the 1990s. The firm, peated malt comes for 20% from own malt floors, the rest of the Port Ellen malt shop. The whisky for this 10 years old ages on bourbon caks and is typical of Islay; powerful and smoky.

40% Vol.

Black Grouse - Alpha Edition

This heavily peated version of The Famous Grouse is made combining peat from the Scottish mainland and from Islay. Peat can be a dominating aroma erasing other more subtle smells. In a whisky it is carefully balanced not to overshadow the signature maltiness of The Famous Grouse. Nose is sweet and smoky throughout with toffees, cereal tones, peppery notes and hints of apricots on the palate.

40% Vol.

Ardmore - Tradition Peated

Ardmore, founded in 1898 and based in Kennethmont, has a strong belief in distillation according to the traditional method. All Ardmore whiskies have aromatic smoke in the smell and taste, thanks to the Highland peat used to dry the malted barley. The peat is sourced on the Scottish mainland and so differs in composition from the more familiar Islays. However, Ardmore is – wrongfully- a bit of an under-appreciated malt, because production is focussed on making whisky to blend in, amoug others, Teacher’s blend.

46% Vol.

Amrut - Peated

Amrut was founded in 1948, in Bangalore, India, as a distillery of blended whisky and rum. Since the nineties they also make a Single Malt. Their copper boilers are made in Scotland. They also buy peated barley in Scotland for making their smoky, peated Whisky. This Peated matures about 4 years on bourbon casks. In Bangalore, it is warm and dry; the maturing process is therefore very fast. The whisky is smoky, spicy and fruity.

46% Vol.

Martine Nouet, known as "the Queen of the Still" is the only author and journalist who writes exclusively about food and spirits. She specialises in matching food and whisky and hosts whisky dinners all over the world. She has just releases a cookery book including 60 recipes, all matched with whisky, “A Table, whisky from glass to plate”. She particularly enjoys writing about Scotch Whisky and is a regular contributor to www.scotchwhisky.com. She launched the French edition of Whisky Magazine in 2004 which she edited for 6 years. She is a judge at the annual International Wine & Spirit Competition in London and was made a Master of The Quaich in 2012.

- Martine Nouet
Master of the Quaich

Teeling - Single Grain

Having left Cooley Distillery after its takeover by Jim Beam, Jack and Stephen Teeling have founded the first distillery in Dublin after 125 years in 2015. They also release excellent whiskeys from the stock they kept from Cooley. The single grain has totally matured in ex Californian Cabernet wine casks. Smooth and fruity with a demerara character, this single grain has a satin-like texture and displays lovely notes of peaches and pears. It has been awarded the Best single Grain by Whisky Magazine in 2014.


46% Vol.

Jura, 16 Y - Diurachs' Own

Often denied the status of an "island" whisky as the marine influence is far from being obvious, Jura is as unique as the island where it is produced. It certainly encapsulates the ragged nature of the place with its heather-clad mountains. The 16 Year Old is rich and malty with earthy and honeyed notes and a distinct nutty finish. Perfectly balanced, with an enticing malty core, this single malt retains a delicious autumnal character.


40% Vol.

Glenrothes - Vintage Reserve

This last addition to the reserve range will replace the Select Reserve. It combines 10 vintages which are said to to reflect the 4 key aromas of Glenrothes: citrus fruit, vanilla, dark fruit and oak. They range from 1989 to 2007. The nose is versatile, changing all the time hence the complexity. It starts with a floral note (bluebells and orange blossom) then a mix of Autumn fruit and juicier Summer fruit enhanced by a spicy festoon. Finally, in the back, an earthy touch. The palate is smooth and mouth coating (between velvet and satin), releasing citrussy, dark fruit and licorice flavours.

40% Vol.

Chivas Regal, 18 Y

Designed by talented master blender Colin Scott, Chivas Regal 18 Year Old is a complex and elegant blended Scotch Whisky from Pernod-Ricard portfolio. The heart of the blend is the Speyside single malt Strathisla, hence its fruity and spicy character releasing dried apricot and stewed apples notes, delicately framed by soft spices and orange dark chocolate. The finish is long and generous, soothing on marzipan and elegant oak.


40% Vol.

Mackmyra - Svensk Rök

Svensk Rök is the first smoked whisky from Sweden and the idea of a group of friends, born on their winter sports holiday. After many study trips to Scotland, they founded the Mackmyra Svensk Whisky Comp in 1999. The malt was dried above a fire of peat and juniper bushes. This gives him tones of juniper and smoke. Now, also Swedish oak barrels are used, which are seared on the inside in order to obtain the sweet aromas of the wood.

46.1% Vol.

Kilchoman - Sanaig

Now a regular in Kilchoman range, Sanaig is a blend of bourbon and oloroso sherry casks with a predominant sherry influence. It takes its name from a breathtaking neighbouring cove which boasts the most remote art gallery in Europe. The nose is sweet and fruity with tropical fruit notes (candied pineapple, a touch of lime). The smoke slowly comes through with a briny whiff. The palate is oily, smooth at first, releasing lemon curd notes then dries on a sooty and dusty kick. The peaty character is challenged by fruit at first but creeps through on time. A charming dram.


46% Vol.

My first encounter with Scotland in the early 1990s was love at first sight. Through internships at Bladnoch and Highland Park I experienced all facets of whisky-making at close range. I was pleasantly surprised to be invited to compose this edition of Whisky Tasting Club. As a brand ambassador of The Glenrothes, I have had the opportunity to taste a lot of beautiful and special whiskies for over 10 years. It's my pleasure to present to you, as a member, some fine whiskies that contain the pure passion for me.

- Dennis Hendriks
Brand Ambassador "The Glerothes"

Compass Box - Asyla

I've known John Glaser since the creation of Compass Box. A master of surprise and top whisky maker. The Asyla is a blend of solitary elevation that shows how delicate and difficult blending can be. The delicious vanilla notes and beautiful balance of this blend opened my eyes to blends again. Try it once as an aperitif with a slice of slightly spicy cheese. Delicious!

40% Vol.

Glenrothes - Sherry Cask Reserve

This, again is a whisky of The Glenrothes showing that the maturity of the selected casks is more important than age. Perfect balance of whisky, aged in 1st refill sherry casks. Deliciously full, lovely spicy notes of, among others, orange. Unmistakably Sherry cask. For me a whisky that can be drank with beautiful dishes, but also a perfect table dram for an evening with friends. The ultimate 'every day dram'.

40% Vol.

Cragganmore, 12 Y

John Smith, Scotland's most experienced distiller at the time, built the Cragganmore distillery in 1869. The spirit stills, which he designed himself, stand out because of their unusual shape. He himself designed them at the time to produce a lighter end product. The heavier alcohols condense, fall back into the still and do not end up in the final product. This explains the enormous complexity of the Cragganmore malt. Whisky journalists Michael Jackson and Dave Broom both chose Cragganmore as their big favorite in this price range.

40% Vol.

Talisker - Distillers Edition

Founded in 1830, Talisker is one of the 2 distilleries on the island of Skye. Talisker is also one of the 6 'Classic Malts'. Distilled in 2003 and matured in Bourbon casks. To highligt the richness of the Talisker single malt, the Master Distiller has selected a small number of casks for double maturation that previously held Jerez Amoroso Sherry. The result is a Talisker with beautiful Sherry influences combined with clear Island aromas.

45.8% Vol.

Benriach - Birnie Moss Intensely Peated

A whisky that you would not expect from a Speyside. Between the tropical fruit and vanilla you would expect from a Speyside whisky, suddenly a bomb of smoke comes to you without being too much. Delicious after a late night at a campfire, after the ultimate BBQ or when you come home in the rain, soaking wet and you need to cheer up.

48% Vol.

Dunville, 12 Y - PX

This Irish whiskey has a rich past. Once founded in Belfast in 1801 and now back again. Now on the market thanks to Echinville distillery, the first Northern Irish distillery in 125 years. The 10 year old Irishman, finished on PX casks, is a surprise. Beautiful vanilla and citrus notes next to beautiful notes of wood and of course a little touch of PX casks. A nice long finish. This 'new Irishman' shall surely be an experience for many people.

46% Vol.

Greg Dillon is a brand strategy consultant specializing in premium spirits, author of GreatDrams.com; a one man’s mission to experience, share and inspire with everything great about whisky, whiskey, gin, beer and fine dining. Award-winning brand, business and spirits blogger. Most importantly, a lover and appreciator of premium spirits on a constant quest for knowledge. This passion makes an excellent writer, presenter and host.

- Greg Dillon
greatdrams.com

Clynelish - Distillers Edition

I always feel that Clynelish is a bit of an underrated whisky and distillery, but this Clynelish Distillers Edition reminds us how impressive their releases can be. It has been finished in Oloroso Seco sherry casks, giving it a really rich flavour profile compared to its stablemates. Stewed apples and winter fruits on the nose develop into a salty, slightly smokey aroma that will raise smiles. The palate exudes sherry richness, lots more of those winter fruits, with just a little bit of smoke again. Marvellous.

46% Vol.

Craigellachie, 13 Y

The Craigellachie distillery was built in 1888 by P.J. Mackie and his business partner. This is the youngest of 3 new Craigellachie bottlings. While the trend in Scotland is to bottle No Age Statement whiskies, Dewar makes a completely different statement. Under the name 'The Last Great Malts', all 5 of their distilleries produce new, or renewed, age-appointed bottles. This one matured 13 years completely on refill casks of American Oak and is bottled un-chill filtered.

46% Vol.

Edradour, 10 Y

This distillery often gets overlooked and is not as well known to whisky drinkers as it probably should be. Edradour is the smallest ‘traditional’ distillery in Scotland and has been around for nearly 200 years. This whisky is sweet with a spicy edge to it. Lots of vanilla, from the bourbon casks it has been matured in, with fresh apples and hints of tropical fruits on an incredibly smooth, well-rounded palate.

40% Vol.

Deanston, 12 Y

Very creamy, fruity and soft. This is a true sipping whisky. One to enjoy after a long day at work or with a BBQ in the summer. Fresh barley notes accompany the fruity notes with soft fruits and just a feint hint of spice make this an all rounder.

46.3% Vol.

Dalmore, 15 Y

Ah, The Dalmore. One of my favourite ranges. The 15 Year Old is a very nice expression put together by the whisky legend that is Richard Patterson. A very nice whisky giving off a very nutty, marzipan-like nose that is distinctly lighter than the 12 Year Old despite its advancing years. The palate is creamy, light again, nutty again with hints of citrus and a medium finish.

40% Vol.

Glen Moray - Port Cask Finish

Why I think this is one of the best value whisky brands on the market; the quality and enjoyment far outweigh the cost of any of their bottles. This port cask finished Glen Moray is lovely, has been aged in ex-Tawny port casks for 8 months ahead of bottling. It looks rather rose wine-esque in appearance. Spicy on the palate that develops sweetness as you spend time with it, creamy mouth-feel with a slightly sweet finish.

40% Vol.

Anne-Sophie Bigot ('The Whisky Lady') is a French whisky blogger on a mission to turn the amber nectar into a more approachable drink and remove the "old man's drink" cliché attached to it. She is also working as a whisky auctioneer & digital marketer. “All the whiskies I have selected represent a specific milestone on my personal whisky journey. I have a special memory attached to each of those expressions and I believe this emotional connection is what makes whisky more than a product but a genuine experience.”

- Anne-Sophie Bigot

Armorik - Double Maturation

Produced by the Warenghem Distillery, founded in 1900 by Leon Warenghem, located in Lannionin, Brittany. After years of experience in distilling mainly fruit and liqueurs, it was decided in 1983 to switch to whisky distillation. This un-chil filtered whisky was first aged on oak barrels from the Breton Parc d' Armorique. For a second maturation the whisky is placed on Sherry barrels after an unknown number of years.

46% Vol.

Glen Scotia - Double Cask

An expression of one of the few remaining distilleries in Campbeltown. After the acquisition in 2014 by Exponent Private Equity, a lot is being invested in both the distillery as well as its whiskies. This Double Cask was introduced in 2015. The whisky was initially matured in traditional barrels and was finished by a combination of first-fill Bourbon barrels and Pedro Ximénez Sherry barrels. It gives the whisky a nice balance between spiciness, tones of fruit and the characteristic Campbeltown character.

46% Vol.

Compass Box - Peat Monster

John Glaser, the founder of Compass Box, creates original and extraordinary new whiskies from different (malt)whiskies of different ages. The basis for these whiskies is the absolute top quality of the grain and malt whiskies to be used. Peat Monster is there for real peat lovers. The balance and the rich and subtle sweetness comes from the 12 and 17 year old malts of Ardmore, which merge beautifully with the smoky and malty complexities of the 10 year old of Caol Ila.

46% Vol.

Green Spot - Château Léoville Barton

A perfect mix between Irish and French traditions. First matured in a mixture of ex-Oloroso Sherry, fresh American oak and ex-bourbon barrels, this expression is then finished in the ex-Château Léoville Barton wine casks for 12 to 24 months, making it the first ever Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey finished in Bordeaux wine casks! This refined "French touch" comes as wild red berries and some subtle oak tannins. Some delicious sweet spices, citrusy, red apple and barley sugar notes also participate in making this expression a real "must-taste" !

46% Vol.

This Club edition is composed by Mark Dermul, mostly known for his love for and extensive collection of Auchentoshan; the triple distilled Lowland single malt. That is why they call him 'The Toshan Man'. He is one of the authors of the recently published book 'Whisky Voor Iedereen' ('Whisky for Everyone') and runs the blog www.whivie.be, on which he posts tasting notes on a daily basis, of which there are 2.500 already. This Flemish lover of the golden nectar also publishes short Whisky Ramblings on YouTube on a regularly basis. He bottled 3 casks under the Star Wars label 'Save Lars Whisky' and co-owns MMMalts.com. "May the Malt be with you" is his motto.

- Mark Dermul
whivie.be

Bushmills - Black Bush

This is the world's oldest licensed whiskey distillery. The story of Bushmills dates back 400 years from the monks and alchemists and is the oldest Irish whiskey. Black Bush is Bushmills' premium blend. The concept for Black Bush was already developed in 1934. Compared to the regular Original, the percentage of malt whiskey is much higher and matured especially on Oloroso barrels. Bushmill gets the Sherry casks for maturing the malt whiskies from Bodegas Paez.

40% Vol.

Auchentoshan, 14 Y - Cooper's Reserve

The Auchentoshan distillery was probably built in 1825 by Irish refugees. This could also be the reason why Auchentoshan is distilled 3 times instead of the usual 2 times in Scotland. Distilling 3 times is common practice in Ireland. This 14 year old Single Malt Scotch whisky was released for travel retail and bestowed the title 'Cooper's Reserve'. The whisky was aged on a selection of Spanish Oloroso Sherry casks and North American Sherry casks, resulting in a fruity and creamy flavor.

46% Vol.

The Feathery

From the Spencerfield Spirit Company, founded by Alex Nicol, former marketing director of Glenmorangie, this is a 'no age statement' whisky by the makers of Sheep Dip and Pig's Nose and the first of a series celebrating Scottish whisky craft. He derives the name from the first golf balls; leather bags filled with feathers and matured completely on Sherry casks. The packaging was developed by Stranger and Stranger in an agreeable seventeenth century typography.

40% Vol.

Caol Ila - Moch

The village of Coal Ila consists of houses, built in the year 1846 by the founder for the employees of the distillery of the same name. This new Caol Ila bottling is selected from containers of different ages. It is the first single malt of the distillery to be fully selected on the basis of taste rather than age, barrel, wood, strength or finish. Moch means' dawn' in Gaelic and is a nice addition to the Caol Ila family.

43% Vol.

Smooth Ambler - Old Scout, 7 Y - Rye

Founded in 2009 by Tag Gaylean and John Little, Smooth Ambler Spirits set out to produce fine artisan spirits by combining patient Appalachian know-how with the finest of American ingredients. Being long time residents of the Greenbrier Valley, both Tag and John knew that they wanted to make something that would leave a mark on Greenbrier County and the folks that call it home, something to be proud of. A Classic American straight rye whiskey with 95% rye and 5% malted barley matured for 7 years.

49.5% Vol.

Tullibardine, 20 Y

This malt matured solely on first fill bourbon barrels, which resulted in a wonderfully sweet nose on honey, cocoa butter, oats, vanilla and candy floss. There is a hint of oak and banana, but also dried pineapple. Surprisingly fresh and fruity. It is honeysweet on the palate, but also deliciously creamy. All the fruit of the nose returns, upholstered with some oranges and their caramelized peel. The finish is gently spiced and fades on sweet fruity notes.

43% Vol.

This Edition is composed by Charles Maclean. He was trained by the Scotch Whisky Research Institute, has written 10 books to this date and globally presents numerous tastings and talks for whisky companies, corporations, universities and clubs, and on radio and TV. He is a member of the Judging Panel of the International Wines & Spirits Competition. Charles was elected Keeper of the Quaich in 1992 and even granted the rare honour of being elected Master of the Quaich, the industry’s highest accolade, in October 2009. “Charles MacLean is Scotland’s leading whisky expert” - The Times, March 2010

- Charles MacLean
Master of the Quaich

Adelphi - Private Reserve Blend

Adelphi was founded in 1826 but stopped distilling in 1907. In 1993, Jamie Archibald revived the name Adelphi. Today, Adelphi is a renowned independent bottler in Scotland. The ageing of the whiskies for this blend has taken place on selected barrels from private stock. The mix of the different barrels brings the flavors of the Highland and Speyside regions together beautifully, but also a hint of peat from Islay can be found.

40% Vol.

Adelphi - Glenborrodale, Batch #2

The criteria on which Adelphi selects the barrels are rarity and maturity, but especially taste. On average, Adelphi accepts only 4% of what is offered to them. Each bottling is limited to 100 - 700 bottles, depending on the size of the barrel. This is a blend of 4 malts from sherry butts of Islay, Orkney and Speyside, supplemented by one of those famous, heavy sherried and very high in alcohol hogs heads of Glenrothes.

46% Vol.

Lord Elcho

Wemyss Malts is an independent Scottish boutique bottler based in Scotland. The family has a longstanding passion for malt whisky dating back to when John Haig, founder of Haig's, built his first distillery on Wemyss land. This Lord Elcho was named after the 5th Earl of Wemyss who was stripped of his title after the Battle of Culloden, before being forced into exile in France. Crafted from a selection of grain and minimum of 40% malt whiskies.

40% Vol.

Wemyss Malts - The Hive, 12 Y

The Hive is one of 3 blended malt Scotch whiskies presented by Wemyss Malts. Each blend being intended for a specific flavor profile. The Hive is a mix of single malts promising honey, honey, and more honey. This line of vatted malts consists of both 8- and 12-year old releases. The folks at Wemyss understand their product well and have marketed it effectively. The current release (46%) lost the age statement. However, this 12 year old forerunner was bottled at 40%.

40% Vol.

Wemyss Malts - Dailuaine, 2001

The Wemyss family have had a longstanding passion for malt whisky and their connections with the industry date back to the turn of the 19th century when John Haig (founder of Haig's) built his first distillery on Wemyss land. Their range of hand crafted malts was conceived with the aim of making them more accessible and understandable. This single cask single malt was distilled by Dailuaine in 2001 and bottled in 2015 with an outturn of 391 bottles.

46% Vol.

Wemyss Malts - Kiln Embers

The Wemyss family have had a longstanding passion for malt whisky. Their connections with the industry date back to the turn of the 19th century when John Haig, founder of Haig's, built his first distillery on Wemyss land. This one was added to Wemyss' blended malts range in 2015. Kiln Embers is of a similar theme to the company's first smoky whisky, Peat Chimney, but with double the amount of Islay whisky in the recipe. Sweet, toasty and smoky.

46% Vol.

This edition has been composed by Marcel Bol, co-founder of Whisky Import Netherlands (WIN). Marcel drinks whisky all since his student days and infected his then colleague Jan Kok, now co-owner of WIN, with the whisky virus and soon the first trip to Scotland was booked. After many wanderings and in-depth courses and studies Marcel and Jan are now deeply rooted and respected Keepers of the Quaich, which import some very renowned whiskies.

- Marcel Bol
Keeper of the Quaich
whisky-import.nl

Armorik - Maître de Chai

The Warenghem distillery of this Armorik is in Lannion in beautiful Brittany in France. The Maitre de Chai, Nas comes from former sherry casks and was released in a limited edition of 1,000 bottles. The nose is soft with apples and yellow fruit, the flavor gives a nice mix of fruit and bitter. The finish is long and gives some lime as extra. A delicious whiskey!

47.3% Vol.

Hyde, 10 Y - Irish Single Malt

In my view, Hyde is THE most tasty Irish whiskey, named after Douglas Hyde; the first president of Ireland. The nose opens with peach in cream, vanilla, honey and caramel before lemon, chocolate, banana and light take herbs. The taste is soft but full and complex with apricots and plums, caramel and honey. The finish is rich and smooth with spices and oak. It is clear that these very tasteful 'Irishman' has matured in First Fill Oloroso sherry casks from Cadiz in Andalucia.

46% Vol.

A.D. Rattray - Cask Islay

Islay Cask is a bottling A.D. Rattray. From Islay and as a good "Ileach" befits, firmly peated. Unfortunately I cannot mention the name of the distillery, but if you look closely at the name you must have a hunch. This Islay Cask is basically a sweet whisky with vanilla custard and light earth tones. The taste has light white herbs covered in this sweeter influences, then taken over by the smoke and peat. In our opinion, an extremely pleasant Islay whisky.

46% Vol.

Spey - Tenné

The supple and accessible range SPEY whisky from Speyside distillery offers a selection of different ages and styles that suit different parts of the day, season or year. Each version has a unique additional period of aging in specially selected barrels to add complexity and texture to the whisky. This one has initially matured in bourbon barrels. Then 6 months in Tawny Port barrels, creating a subtle ruby hue and lively, fruit-filled taste profile. A wonderfully soft, but very tasteful whisky.

46% Vol.

Old Perth - Sherry

The Old Perth is the first, very limited, batch from sherry casks and consists of a blend of 3 malts from the Speyside and low-lying areas fully matured in sherry casks from 3 styles of sherry casks; Sherry Butt (500 liters) Sherry Puncheon (500 liters) and Sherry Hogshead (250 liters). The nose gives caramel, fruit yogurt, and solid red fruit syrup. The tongue is experiencing robust flavors of oak, dark red fruit, white chocolate and "treacle toffee."

43% Vol.

Ledaig - First Cask, 2008

Bottled in the First Cask series of WIN. The First Cask series is our own label and consists entirely of single cask and cask strength bottlings selected by Jan and me. This Isle of Mull single malt was distilled on May 13 2008 and has matured in cask 700694. Bottled on August 14, 2015 at cask strength of 60.7%, non-chill filtered and no dyes. A limited release of 220 bottles. Extraordinarily full of flavor with lots of salty, smoky and peaty influences.

60.7% Vol.

The Tasting Collection Team wishes you a happy and healthy 2016! Also this year we hope to be able to let you discover new whiskies and their creators because there is so much to discover in the world of whisky. This year also, a number of well-known whisky experts will introduce theirselves to you and will compose several club editions for you. This month you will taste some special Scottish malts and an Irish whiskey. Each one very different in character, but all definitely worth trying!

- Team Tasting Collection

Glengoyne, 21Y

This malt was re-released in February 2007, as the leading whisky in the core range of the distillery. The earlier version had less sherry influences and was therefore lighter in color than the current one. This version has matured exclusively in sherry casks of European oak. An upgrade of the distillery as sherry casks have increased sharply in price and therefore are not used so much.

43% Vol.

G&M - Scapa, 2001

More than a century ago originally started as a delicacy shop, Gordon & McPhail has established itself as a name specialized in bottling Malt Whiskies licensed for famous distilleries such as Macallan, Glenlivet, Glen Grant, Linkwood and Mortlach. This bottling is from Scapa and is part of the Distillery Labels set. This beautiful malt has matured from 2001 at 1st Fill Bourbon Barrels.

43% Vol.

Kilchoman - Machir Bay

Named after the beautiful bay at the distillery. In 2012 presented as the first standard release and available in annual batches. Although the average age of this bottling would be higher each year, this 2015 edition claims to be the quality they had in mind and for the first time has no year indication more. This whisky matured 6 years in first-fill bourbon barrels, plus a small portion Oloroso barrels.

46% Vol.

Tullamore Dew, 12 Y - Special Reserve

The fame of Tullamore Dew whiskey is largely due to a brilliant play of words by Daniel E. Williams, then director. He linked his initials -D. E. W.-. to his product. This gave Tullamore Dew the easy to remember slogan 'Give every man his Dew'. This 12 years old is a rich blend of Irish whiskey's, matured in American oak barrels where the characters of the combination of malt and potstill blend beautifully.



43% Vol.

Tullibardine - 225 Sauternes Finish

The Tullibardine distillery was founded in 1949, situated in the beautiful surroundings of Blackford in Perthshire and recently renovated. This Tullibardine with afterripening in 225 liter drums, which previously matured Sauternes dessert wine of Chateau Suduiraut. Therefore this Sauter Ness 225 is a rich and sweet whisky, often served with strongly flavored, savory snacks or dessert.

43% Vol.

Tomintoul, 10 Y

The Tomintoul distillery, pronounced Tom-in-'t-Owl, lies a few kilometers from the village on the edge of the forest, near Avon in the town of Glenlivet. This gentle, 10-year-old single malt has matured in the best ex bourbon barrels and is the first bottling of Distillery Tomintoul since the acquisition in 2000. Gold medalist in China in 2006 and silver medalist in 2007 at The International Wine & Spirit Competition in London.

40% Vol.

December; a month of looking back and looking forward. We like to do this with you, because we can look back on a good year, in which a number of special editions where published by the hand of our Club Composers. We want to thank them for their commitment to present surprising, beautiful and special whiskies!

- Team Tasting Collection

Millstone - Oloroso Cask, 2008

Zuidam started making their first batches of whisky in 1997. Nowadays, Zuidam Distillers is one of the last independent distilleries in the Netherlands that still produces all its distillates in a traditional way within its own family business. It was not until 2007 that Master distiller Patrick Zuidam was satisfied with the Millstone whisky. This 6 year old Oloroso Sherry cask matured Dutch single malt whisky was distilled in April 2008. Only 924 bottles were issued.

46% Vol.

Nikka - Pure Malt, White

This Japanese Whisky is the most peated whisky the Nikka range. Intense smoke and peat flavors dominate the aromatic palette, complemented with a light salty touch- and vegital tones. An exciting malt, which will attract the bold whisky drinkers, but with its soft texture this pure malt does not lose its distinctive Japanese touch.

43% Vol.

Highland Park, 10 Y - Ambassado's Choice

Highland Park malts the barley on its own malt floor and kiln, through which green malt with homegrown peat arises. Thanks to this, Highland Park distillery gets its distinctive and smooth taste. Highland Park Ambassador's Choice 10 Year Old is a whisky made by Senior Brand Ambassador Martin Markvardsen. For this whisky he chose mainly ex-bourbon casks, which is special because Highland Park normally matures exclusively in Sherry casks.

46% Vol.

Macallan, 12 Y - Sherry Cask

The Macallan was founded in 1824 in Speyside and was one of the first distilleries in Scotland with an official license. Typical is the use of natural, pure products, combined with traditional methods and old-fashioned craftsmanship. In the course of its existence, the Macallan distillery is often praised for its extraordinary quality. The Macallan Sherry Casks 12 Y has only matured in Sherry casks from Jerez, Spain. Because this malt is no longer produced, it is exclusive available and rises in price rapidly.

40% Vol.

Bowmore, 15 Y - Darkest

The oldest distillery on the island of Islay, founded in 1779. Since the start, smoky and daring Whisky has been made here, of which 30% of the malt still comes from their our own malt floor. Bowmore has Scotland's oldest warehouse; it is located partly below sea level. This Darkest has matured 13 years on bourbon casks there and then got a finish of more than 2 years on Oloroso sherry casks. This gives fruity and spicy tones with lots of smoke.

40% Vol.

Glenfarclas, 12 Y

Glenfarclas is owned by the Grant family since 1865 and led by the 6th Grant generation now and is one of the few remaining independent family owned distilleries; most notably in the whisky world. Therefore Glenfarclass praises its products also as ''The spirit of independence''. This 12 year matured won the 'Best Sherried Whisky' award in the Single Malt World Cup 2006. And won 2 gold medals at the Stockholm Beer & Whisky Festival.

43% Vol.

Because it has been my mission for a long time to help people find good affordable whisky, I thought it was an honor to create this club edition, but with relatively unknown and especially affordable brands. Each tube is, in my humble opinion, a whisky that is more than worth it to taste. You may find one so tasty that you are going to buy a whole bottle. In that case you will taste that good quality can be affordable. I hope you enjoy tasting them!

- Jan Beek
Keeper of the Quaich

Glen Park

It is a fact that Blended Whisky was formerly often better than today. The main reason is at that time Single Malt time was much less popular and best vessels often went into the blend. Glen Park is such an ancient blend, presumably bottled in the last century. The name is clearly an invented name, it is unknown for which market the blend was intended. So it is a kind of 'leftover' Blended Whisky.

40% Vol.

The Ultimate - Linkwood, 2008

Linkwood has been making whisky for Johnnie Walker blends. Occasionally a private bottling of this distillery is released. A pity really, because connoisseurs judge Linkwood as a very good whisky. That is why the so-called independent bottlers like to bottle Linkwood. This young Linkwood, matured in a bourbon barrel is bottled by the Ultimate, the most famous Dutch bottler.

46% Vol.

Arran - 'The Bothy' Quarter Cask

The Arran distillery has existed only since 1995. So very old whisky of them is not there yet. But they release regularly special bottlings like this one; the Bothy. Matured in a so-called Quarter Cask (125 ltr.). A 'Bothy is a freely accessible shelter or refuge where one can stay during long walks. There are pretty much of them in Scotland, as well as on the beautiful Isle of Arran.

55.7% Vol.

Benromach - Chateau Cissac, 2010

The smallest distillery in Speyside, but a distillery with a mission. Benromach makes whisky like the old days, without compromising on quality. Occasionally they bring out a Woodfinish, like this Chateau Cissac. A limited bottling, ripened at the beautiful vessels in which the Chateau Cissac, a red wine of great class in the Haut Médoc, ever matured.


45% Vol.

Ballechin, 10 Y

Ian Henderson worked half his life at Laphroaig. After retirement, he joined Edradour. The smallest distillery in Scotland had just been taken over and Ian was asked to bring back everything to the original state and ensure that the Edradour whisky got back to the old level. As thanks he could then make the whisky he had always wanted to make at Laphroaig but was not allowed; this Ballechin is the result.

46% Vol.

This edition has been composed by Jock Shaw. Jock was born in Scotland has been living in The Netherlands for over 30 years. His parents worked for the owners of many Scottish whisky distilleries. In 1999 he became nationwide champion in blind nosing and tastings and in 2009 he started his business' Scotch and Folk. In April 2014 he became the Keeper of the Quaich. Jock organizes Single Malt Whisky tastings at any suitable location, for anyone interested in the Netherlands, Belgium and Scotland.

- Jock Shaw
Keeper of the Quaich

Tomatin, 14 Y - Portwood

The Portswood is a new expression in the Tomatin core range. Tomatin calls himself "The Softer Side of the Highlands'. And that is certainly true. Portwood has matured in a combination of Bourbon Barrels and barrels of port wine. The nose gives honeycombs, melon, apple pie, toffee and chocolate -keep on smelling! It really opens up- Taste: raisins, dried nuts and sweet dried fruit. Apricot and plum with a medium aftertaste, in which the fruitiness lingers.

46% Vol.

Tamdhu - Batch Strength #2

Tamdhu; a gem of a distillery with one's own old station, complete with waiting rooms, right on the River Spey. This expression is a bottling at full strength. Fully matured in sherry casks, often as first fill. The nose shows red berries, raisins, walnuts and pecans. Delicate oak aroma and cookie dough. Powerful and rich in the mouth with sherry, cakes and dried fruit, orange and Crème Brûlée and a very long, malty aftertaste with biscuits and toast with marmalade.

58.8% Vol.

Lost Distillery - Lossit

Lossit is now reborn since its closure in 1867! The Lost Distillery analyzes old whisky archives and provides a flavor profile with a Whisky Archaeologist. Next, the malts are blended with a modern interpretation of the original flavor. The nose: peat, woody and soft. Bourbon sweetness, dark roasted coffee. Full in the mouth with spices, dark chocolate, pepper and ginger. The peat is trying to dominate the now fruity aftertaste with espresso and pure cocoa.

43% Vol.

Paul John - Single Cask #739

A barrel, selected by myself and Hans Bresser. 4 years matured in American oak but, due to the rapid aging in the Indian climate, feeling much older. Notes of sweet and earthy peat smoke, slightly salty maritime. Grass, hay and curry leaves, anise, cumin. Very complex in the mouth and surprisingly easy to drink despite its 57%. Earthy peat, oak, clove, (Armagnac-like) black pepper and delicate tannins. Very long, rich light dry finish with peat and honey. Slightly bitter tannins. A Gem!

57% Vol.

Penderyn - Myth

A award winning Single Malt, not from Scotland, but from South Wales, the village of Penderyn, where the producer of this whiskey produces only 1 barrel a day. Usually the whiskey of this distillery is finalized before bottling in Madeira barrels such as the Penderyn Legend; Myth, however, is ripened and refined on 100% ex-bourbon barrels. The red dragon on the bottle label is the symbol of Wales dating from the time of the Romans.

41% Vol.

Nikka Taketsuru - Pure Malt

Dedication, dignity, passion, perfection. Japanese culture exerts fascination unlike any other, breeding craftsmen who honor tradition, foster their skills and create products of highest standards. This is certainly and particularly true for Japanese whisky, which evolved from a little known curiosity to a serious all-time classic on the global whisky map. It’s because of gentlemen like Shinjiro Torii and Masataka Taketsuru that we get to indulge on these precious liquids full of harmony and balance.

43% Vol.

This edition has been composed by Rianne Tol; since several years the only fixed writer for whisky magazine Whisky Passion. In her articles and columns she regularly gives her unvarnished opinion about the goings on in the world of whisky. In addition, she is a committed board member of the Dutch Whisky Society and gives tastings at various locations in the Netherlands on a regular basis.

- Rianne Tol
dutchwhiskysociety.nl

Benriach - Heart of Speyside

The Heart of Speyside is a whisky No Age Statement of Benriach. Billy Walker introduced it in 2004 as ‘entry level whisky’ 'in the same year that the distillery reopened after a closure of 2 years. A young, fresh and simple whisky, what some call, a ‘countrified tone’. The smell of honey, hay and some soft herbal tones. In the flavor more herbs, again honey and a hint of peat. The finish gives oak and vanilla.

40% Vol.

Signatory - Clynelish, 1997

Signatory is an independent bottler, specialized in superior bottlings of whiskies that would otherwise end up in a blend. Signatory never adds colorants to the whisky. 1997 is known as a very good Clynelish-year with very pure whisky. This Clynelish is a 15 year old single malt, matured in Hogs Heads and unchillfiltered. In the nose exotic fruits, honey, malt, fudge and vanilla. In the mouth marshmallows, mandarin, juicy sweet pineapple and spices.

46% Vol.

Glendronach, 15 Y - Revival

The Glendronach distillery was built in 1826 by James Allerdes, a son of a rich landowner. Glendronach owes its character to a combination of self-malted barley, peat and water from the Highlands. This Revival is a rich, aromatized whisky that shows the strong Sherry style, which Glendronach is known for. This edition laid the foundation for the emergence of Glendronach, with their Sherry matured whisky, which is now discussed with the same respect as the other heavyweights of Speyside. A must-have for sherried whisky fans.

46% Vol.

Bowmore, 15 Y - Laimrig

‘The Bowmore distillery was built in 1779 by David Simpson and is therefore the oldest distillery on the island of Islay. At Bowmore, whiskies mature in the company's famous vaults, which are located below sea level under ideal maturation conditions . This whisky matured for the first 14 years on a combination of Bourbon casks and a small part of Sherry casks of European Oak wood. Then, it got a finish of about 1 year on the Sherry Butts. Laimrig is un-chill filtered bottled.

54.1% Vol.

Nikka - From the Barrel

The first Japanese who studied ‘making whisky’ in Scotland, Masataka Taketsuru is called "the father of Japanese whisky. He helped to set up the first whisky distillery in Japan in 1934 and founded his own whisky house Nikka. This whisky is a blend of grain whisky and matured single malt. In the nose herbs, apple, floral with some wood tones, strong taste again with herbs, caramel, vanilla, dry sherry and orange tones. The finish is warm and fruity.

51.4% Vol.

Keeper of the Quaich Ronald Zwartepoorte runs a consultancy for foreign wine and spirit producers and, thanks to Han van Wees and spirits connoisseur and whisky writer Malcolm Greenwood, developed a great passion for whisky. In addition he gives advice to organizations of whisky festivals, clubs and specialists. In April 2006 he started 'Whisky Passion', which became one of the most widely read whisky magazines in the Benelux.

- Ronald Zwartepoorte
Keeper of the Quaich
whiskypassion.nl

Deanston - Virgin Oak

This is a young whisky, matured in new oak barrels from Kentucky. The color is light golden. The nose gives nice show of new oak with light aromas of apple and citrus, followed by a hint of smoke. The taste is creamy with pleasant notes of vanilla, toffee, honey and wood. This malt gives a slightly spicy aftertaste with notes of honey and sweet malty tones.

46.3% Vol.

GlenDronach, 8 Y - The Hielan'

Founded in 1826, GlenDronach has made a name for itself for its excellent sherried whiskies, rivalling (and in the minds of some even surpassing) The Macallan as the premier sherried Scotch. However, the Glendronach The Hielan is somewhat different from the rest of the core range, having matured in a mixture of ex-sherry AND ex-bourbon casks. It leaves room for the impressive GlenDronach spirit to shine in this 8-year-old whisky, highlighted by aromas of orange blossom and golden sultanas.

46% Vol.

Glenfarclas, 18 Y

This 18 year old Glenfarclas has been developed for the "travel retail", but is lately also limitary available at the whisky specialist. Golden amber color with an aroma of fine sherry notes, followed by citrus and honey and a hint of vanilla. The flavor is heavier than expected with sweet honey, creamy fudge, dried fruit and almonds. A lovely subtle aftertaste with a hint of sweetness.

43% Vol.

Glenlivet - Nadurra

No whisky festival goes by that I'm going to get a glass of this beautiful Glenlivet. Golden yellow. Fresh on the nose with lots of fruit, flavors of green apples, vanilla from lightly roasted oak. Showing lovely balance of sweet malt and mint. Spicy. excitatory by the high alcohol content. The taste is full, robust, peppery, hints of nuts, honey, toffee, tasty fruity with a nice, medium finish. Soft, sweet, yet dry with notes of oak, ginger and plums.

48% Vol.

Ad de Koning has spent his entire working life in the whisky industry. His commitment to popularizing whisky in the Netherlands is second to none and therefore he is regularly asked by importers as a consultant in the field of marketing and public relations. Honored for a career in the whisky world which now spans 50 years, Ad King is the only 'Master of the Quaich' in The Netherlands.

- Ad de Koning
Master of the Quaich

Dalmore - Cigar Malt

Dark gold. Specially designed for lovers of a good cigar. Cinnamon, vanilla and red fruit go hand in hand. Then tropical fruit, banana, toffee and vanilla ice cream. In the aftertaste orange, bergamot and ground spices come forward. Adheres excellent standing in a cloud of cigar smoke.


44% Vol.

Glen Garioch, 12 Y

Honey. Tones of heather flowers held in balance by poached pears and sweet malt. First crème brûlée ripe banana, then a slight oak tone and pear, resulting in a long, smooth, creamy and fragrant finish. Because of the creamy / spicy aroma Glen Garioch is excellent with a cheese platter.

48% Vol.

Yamazaki - Distiller's Reserve

Gold. A pleasant aroma of cherries, strawberries and Japanese oak. (Mizunara). The taste is reminiscent of raspberry, white peach and a hint of coconut. In the aftertaste sweet vanilla comes forward with a sigh of cinnamon. In Japan whisky is made since the mid 20-ies of the last century whisky. The great hero of Japanese whisky makers is Masataka Taketsuru who, around 1925, tarried in Scotland for a longer time to cheat the trick there. Yamazaki D.R. is a beautiful, mild, clean and fruity dram, great for summer evenings.

43% Vol.

Strathisla, 12 Y

Light gold; full and fruity with a hay-like character, surrounded by a soft-sweet nuttiness. The heart of this whisky is very recognizable with notes of honey. Strathisla is the core where the blend Chivas Regal is built. The distillery is the oldest working in the Speyside region and perhaps the most photographed. The double pagoda and the waterwheel placed, sure are very suitable for that.

40% Vol.

Talisker - Port Ruighe

Talisker was founded in 1830 and is still the only distillery on the island of Skye. Traditionally, Talisker has been a sturdy and smoky whisky, which was mainly used in blends such as Johnnie Walker. The Port Ruighe is a whisky, which first aged on refill bourbon barrels and got a finish on used Portvaten. How long the whisky has matured is not stated. The name is a tribute to the port in Portree, the capital of the island of Skye.

45.8% Vol.

Highland Park, 12 Y

Glowing amber, yes! Aromas of heather honey, sweet peat smoke. That sensation continues on the tongue and the palate. The smoke is sweeter, with pronounced malt tones. The finish lingers pleasantly for a while in the oral cavity. Highland Park is ideally a good reference whisky because he has everything. You can use it to compare with other fine whiskies. Indeed, it is a real all-rounder.

40% Vol.

Hans Offringa is an internationally known writer and photographer. He wrote more than 25 books on whisky, numerous articles and received several awards including the Scotsman and Honorary Kentucky Colonel.

Becky Lovett Offringa is a marine biologist with a passion for whisky, painting and photography. She provides for research, layout and editing, as well as marketing and social media at The Whisky Couple.
Their books, pictures and articles are published worldwide.

- Hans & Becky
thewhiskycouple.com

Tyrconnell, 10 Y - Madeira Cask Finish

Supple, flaxseed, citrus, slightly spicy but not overwhelming. Delicate. Appetizing aftertaste. A distillate from the distillery Cooley. The name refers to a famous Irish racehorse ever with 100: 1, a match won and its owner was pleasantly rich. The additional maturation in a barrel Madeira gives a fruity extra-velvet taste sensation with it.

46% Vol.

Glenfarclas, 15 Y

Sherry, light peat smoke and butterscotch aromas with a hint of dried fruit. Full, good balance between sherry-like sweetness, malt and smoke show. Long lasting, pleasant, distinctive taste. Once, owner John Grant advised Mrs. Margaret Thatcher, at the time Britain's Prime Minister, to serve this version at 10 Downing Street, instead of brandy.

46% Vol.

Four Roses - Single Barrel

Made from one of the ten distillates that Jim Rutledge is able to produce with his 5 yeasts and 2 mash bills. Selected By himself from the tens of thousands of barrels of maturing Four Roses bourbon. Spicy and powerful with cocoa, maple syrup and oak, hints of ripe plums and cherries. Robust and full, but nimble with a smooth, delicate, long aftertaste. The flavor varies fractionally per batch.

50% Vol.

Old Pulteney, 17 Y

The Pulteney distillery is the northernmost distillery on the Scottish mainland. The distillery was named after the then governor of the fishermen's association, Sir William Pulteney, when it was founded in 1826 by James Henderson. The casks for this 17 year Old Pulteney bottling have been specially selected by the Distillery Manager Fred Sinclair. The whisky is non-chill filtered and not coloured with caramel in order to guarantee the purest possible taste for the whisky lover. The Old Pulteney malt is often referred to as the manzanilla of the north.

46% Vol.

Talisker - Dark Storm

Talisker, founded in 1830 by the brothers Hugh and Kenneth MacAskill, is the only distillery located on the island of Skye. Although initially intended for travel retail, Dark Storm is now more generally available. The whisky was introduced in mid-2013 to complement the 2 other new Taliskers, Storm and Port Ruighe. For the maturation, barrels were used, which have been given a very heavy' char', giving this Dark Storm its very smoky character. Really a whisky that you have to learn to drink.

45.8% Vol.

This edition is composed by Wouter Wapenaar, Keeper of the Quaich. In 2000, he first organized the still leading International Whisky Festival in the Netherlands. Since 2004 he organizes the International Malt Whisky Festival in Ghent. Wapenaar was the founder of the first Dutch whisky magazine "WhiskyEtc." and holder of the Guinness Book of World Records in 'tasting whisky'. On January 31, 2009 in Ghent 2,253 participants tasted six different whiskies. As Ambassador of Scotch Single Malt Whisky Society he gives a lot of of whisky tastings on location.

- Wouter Wapenaar
Keeper of the Quaich

Teeling - Small Batch

The Teeling Family is in whiskey for centuries. This time scion Jack Teeling is at the helm. The result is this beautiful, innovative new whiskey. This is a high malt blend, which is further aged in various barrels and cast in ultra small batches. This party was aged for 6 months in barrelswhich previously contained high quality rum. The rum barrels provide a wonderful bloom on the soft supple qualities of Irish whiskey.

46% Vol.

Arran, 12 Y - Cask Strength, Single Batch

A rich and powerful Arran. In this 4th batch of 12 years old Cask the influence of sherry casks is greatly increased. Master Distiller James MacTaggart has made a selection of first-fill sherry butts, Second-fill sherry hogs heads and bourbon barrels. The larger proportion of sherry casks creates tones of sweet fruit and spicy oak, while the vanilla of the bourbon barrels take care of roundness and refinement.

53.2% Vol.

Talisker - Skye

Talisker Skye was introduced in early 2015, named after the island on which the distillery is located. This whisky will make a fantastic "1st impression" by those unfamiliar with the Talisker flavoring profile, but also certainly popular among the diehard fans of Talisker. Matured in a combination of recycled and toasted American oak barrels, with a slightly higher proportion of toasted barrels.

45.8% Vol.

Wouter Wapenaar - Private Cask Cask Strength

The Bruichladdich distillery is situated on Loch Indaal, at the Rhinns and is the most western located distillery in Scotland. This distillery offers third parties the opportunity to purchase their own cask, maturing them and to decide for themselves when this cask is being bottled. This nearly 10 years aged Cast Strength Single Malt whiskey was bottled in 2014 from a vessel that has been purchased by Wouter Wapenaar himself at this distillery.

60.8% Vol.

Monkey Shoulder - Blended Malt

David Stewart, Malt Master of Glenfiddich and Balvenie distilleries, has selected 3 whisky casks from the in Dufftown established distilleries for the composition of the Monkey Shoulder Blended Malt Scotch; Glenfiddich, Balvenie and Kininvie Each with its own flavor and identity, which coalesce to this particular blended malt whisky. There is no grain whisky or something else added. The name Monkey Shoulder comes from the shoulder injuries that the staff at the distillery was confronted with by continuously stirring the barley.

40% Vol.

Bowmore - Small Batch

Islay Malts are known for their smokiness. Bowmore is no exception. This whisky matured in a combination of first and second fill bourbon barrels, which give the whisky the sweetness of vanilla, spices and subtle smoky wood tones that perfectly complement the delicate peat smoke of Bowmore. Second fill barrels enhance fruitiness and complexity and allow Bowmores distinctive notes of honey and creamy malt to be presented even better.

40% Vol.

Bruichladdich - Bere Barley

This limited Bere Barley bottling of Bruichladdich is an experiment in their Provenance series. Completely distilled from Bere-grain, a very old cereal. It proved a very difficult crop, partly because the yield is half of that of modern cereals. Moreover, there were problems with the hardness by the milling and malting. Eventually, all the problems were overcome, resulting in this un-peated, un-chill filtered and uncoloured Limited Edition. Only 7200 bottles of this malt have been bottled.

50% Vol.

Glenkinchie - Distillers Edition 1996-2008

In 1969 the distillery, which was originally called the Milton Distillery, stopped with malting its own grain and part of the building was converted into a Malt Whisky museum . The Glenkinchie label remained relatively little known until 1989, when United Distillers started to the marketing of the brand under their Classic Malts brand. This 14 year old Distiller's Edition is double matured in Amontillado sherry casks. Sherry flavor competes with the freshness, but not overpowering.

43% Vol.

Benromach - Traditional

The first whisky, which came on the market again after the reopening of the Benromach distillery in 1998. By only using the best, and somewhat peated malted grain and the purest water from the nearby Romach hills is this malt of very pure taste. A beautifully balanced whisky, of which 80% has matured in ex-bourbon and the remaining 20% in sherry casks.

40% Vol.

Connoisseurs Choice - Inchgower, 2000

We seldom come across this 1997 vintage whisky of Inchgower as a single malt, due to the fact that the vast majority of the production goes to the Bell's family of blended whiskies. However, this single malt was bottled by Gordon & Macphail under their Connoisseurs Choice label. Now we can test this whisky with only its own characteristics we are pleasantly surprised.

46% Vol.

Signatory - Glenlossie, 1997

Bottled by independent bottler Signatory as part of the Un-Chillfiltered Collection. Distilled on 18 February, the whisky was aged and bottled in 786 bottles on 17 November 2014. The sometimes extremely rare single cask bottlings are traditionally labeled and packaged by hand. Additionally Signatory offers whiskies usually with a specific reference to the day of the distillation, the vessel and the date of the filling and provides each bottle individually numbered.

46% Vol.

Longrow - Peated

Longrow is one of the 3 whiskies which are distilled in the Springbank distillery and is very popular with collectors as investors. This Longrow Peated is seen as the successor to the Longrow C.V. Characteristic of this whisky is the smokiness. He has aged in sherry casks from which he gets his sweet flavor. Connoisseurs without exception find this malt to be fantastic value for money.

46% Vol.

Inchmurrin, 15 Y

The packaging of this single malt can be described at least as ' wondrous'. The whisky has aged 15 years in bourbon casks, is non-chillfiltered and uncoulored. The nose is very fruity and gives a hint of cinnamon, apricot and melon, which is reflected in the taste with cream and vanilla with a nutty finish.

46% Vol.

Glenturret, 10 Y

Glenturret distillery was founded in 1775 and is thus the oldest distillery in Scotland. With just one wash still and one spirit still, Glenturret is one of the smallest distilleries in Scotland. This is wonderful whisky, sweet of taste. Honey, oily and salty accents with a rustic charm. Tannin, spices and green fruits compete for dominance, but none of them wins.

40% Vol.

Aberlour, 10 Y

In 1826, Aberlour was founded by James Gordon and in 1879 the new owner James Fleming moved it to where the distillery is still located. Matured in a combination of ex-bourbon and sherry barrels, this Single Malt is a soft but distinctive whisky with a slightly spicy sherry taste. He is therefore recommended to the novice whisky drinker, but also the more experienced whisky lovers can appreciate this Single Malt.

40% Vol.

Paul John - Edited

‘Edited’ is the peated version of John Paul. The turf is the only ingredient not from India but from Scotland. Edited is fully matured in bourbon casks and 'un-chill filtered' and bottled uncoloured. This Single Malt has a deep golden color and a nose of light, sweet aromas of smoke, honey and licorice. With the powerful taste with notes of fruit, honey and smoke and a long, spicy finish.

46% Vol.

Highland Park, 18 Y

With the use of local peat of the Scottish Orkney Islands, containing heather, Highland Park distillery owes its characteristic flavor. This 18 year old Single Malt is a light smoky whisky with sweet notes of honey. The whisky is in perfect harmony; there are no rough edges and all flavors melt together beautifully. Winner of the Gold Medal of the 2005 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

43% Vol.

The Singleton, 18 Y

Singleton wordt langer gefermenteerd en langzamer gedistilleerd dan veel andere whisky’s; iets dat zorgt voor de zachtheid en diepe smaak. Daarna gerijpt in vaten die zijn gemaakt van Amerikaanse en Europese eiken voor een extra rijke smaak. Deze soepele, van nature rijke single malt heeft zoete, fruitachtige tonen en een prettige warmte die lang aanhoudt. De unieke fles is geïnspireerd op de traditionele heupflacon.

40% Vol.

Säntis Malt - Sigel

Aged in oak barrels, and with a subtle aroma of apple-wood smoke, this whisky has a pure, graceful and enticing freshness. In the background, there's the merest hint of green figs on the silky texture as well as a subtle touch of phenol. Gentle, oaky, and wonderfully satisfying bitter touch. Faintly fruity and extremely impressive.

40% Vol.

Scapa, 16 Y

The Scapa distillery is the second most Northern located distilleries in Scotland and is located on one of the Orkney Islands, which are only accessible by ferry from the place Stromness. Scapa only has one wash still and one spirit still and is one of the smallest distilleries in Scotland. Therefore, every drop of spirit that is produced here is intended for their own single malt.

40% Vol.

Macallan - Amber

Amber is part of The Macallan's new no age statement range of Speyside single malts, which concentrates on colour. The theory is that by using 100% sherry casks and natural colour, the darker the whisky, the older and more complex.

40% Vol.

Balvenie, 14 Y - Caribbean Cask

After being matured for 14 years in traditional oak casks the spirit is transferred to Caribbean rum casks to give it some extra flavour. This gives the whisky very nice notes of fruit and vanilla.

43% Vol.

Dalmore, 18 Y

Dalmore (1839) is now one of the classics of Whisky. The distillery is located in the Northern Highlands and overlooks the sea. Dalmore has received a lot of attention, because they occasionally release very expensive and very old bottlings. This 18 year old has matured for 14 years on bourbon barrels and then another 4 years on Matusalem Oloroso sherry casks. This makes it a perfect example of Dalmore's class.

43% Vol.

Jura, 10 Y

Next to Islay is the island of Jura. The Isle of Jura distillery has been here since 1810. On the island live 200 people and 5000 deer. The water used by Jura comes from a lake nearby, the "Loch a' Bhaile-Mhargaidh". This water is peat-containing and gives the whisky a light soily taste. The malt for the whisky is not peated, but dried with hot air. This 10-year-old Jura has matured on bourbon casks and is firm and floral.

40% Vol.

Ardbeg - Uigeadail

Ardbeg Uigeadail is named after the mysterious loch which supplies the peat-laden water used to make Ardbeg. This Ardbeg is a combination of different Ardbeg’s that have matured in bourbon and sherry casks, Ardbeg Uigedail therefore has a pleasant sweet and smoky flavor that will please any whisky lover. Named ‘World Whisky of the Year’ in Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible 2009.

54% Vol.

Bushmills Malt, 16 Y - Three Wood

Bushmills whiskey is the oldest whiskey in the world. The distillery was established in the village of Bushmills and received a license to distil from King James I in 1608. Only in 1784 they became a registered trademark. This whiskey is matured for 16 years, first a part in American bourbon barrels and a part in Spanish oloroso barrels. Then they are put togheter and ‘married’ in port casks, hence the name ‘Three Wood’ or ‘Triple Wood’, it has a soft and honeyed flavor. The finish is slightly sweet with vanilla and honey-like tones.

46% Vol.

Bruichladdich - Scottish Barley

The Bruichladdich Scottish Barley in it’s remarkable bottle is made from 100% Scottish organic barley, a distillation process called Slow Trickle Distillation and the premium American oak Barrels have produced one of the creamiest Whiskies we have ever tasted.

50% Vol.

Knockando, 18 Y

This Knockando has ‘slowly matured’ in sherry casks for 18 years. It is an elegant, light, delicate and fruity malt. Well balanced a little grain-like and easy to drink.

43% Vol.

Tobermory, 10 Y

Tobermory’s world-renowned 10 year old has evolved with stunning new depth. Matured for 10 years in ex-bourbon casks, the slight peat influence of the water at the distillery gives a unique character to the smooth notes of fruit and spice.

46% Vol.

Loch Lomond - Single Malt

Loch Lomond is probably Scotland’s most versatile distillery, in terms of the number of different styles of whisky produced for different purposes on one site. This Single Malt whisky is double matured, so all the goodness can be collected before being bottled. It is a mellow single malt that is slightly peaty to the nose. There is also a hint of brandy butter. The taste is sweet and smoky with a long mellow finish.

40% Vol.

Highland Park - Einar

Highland Park - Einar has been crafted as a tribute to one of the most feared and ruthless Vikings of his time. Driven by a heady mixture of peat smoke and American oak casks, the result is a whisky of bold complexity brought together with the addition of some broody spiciness.

40% Vol.

Mortlach, 15 Y - G&M

A 15 Year Old Single Malt whisky from the Mortlach Distillery. This whisky is bottled by the famous independent bottlers Gordon & Macphail. It has a dark golden colour, light to medium body and long and delicate finish.

43% Vol.

Glenfiddich, 18 Y

The specialist on-site coopers at Glenfiddich personally look after every precious cask they use for this outstanding single malt throughout its long maturation, ensuring the oak is in the best condition to imbue the whisky with its notes of baked apple, cinnamon and robust oak. Married for at least three months in small, individually numbered batches in wooden tuns, the Glenfiddich 18 Year Old has a unique depth and complexity that has been acclaimed in the industry.

40% Vol.

Glenmorangie, 18 Y

The Glenmorangie 18 Years Old is a single malt Scotch whisky of serious distinction. Once it has spent fifteen years maturing in American white oak casks approximately 30% is transferred into Spanish Oloroso casks to spend a further three years maturing. Then, when both elements have reached 18 years, Glenmorangie blends them back together to create a whisky with a rich bouquet and full, rounded flavour. For a whisky of this age, this expression has maintained, thanks to our delicate floral spirit and fine Oloroso casks.

43% Vol.

Talisker, 10 Y

Talisker, founded in 1830, is the only distillery on the island of Skye and was founded by the brothers Hugh and Kenneth MacAskill. Although there are occasional slight shifts in emphasis, the connection between peat smoke, maritime influences, sweetness and white pepper remains a golden combination. Since the introduction of the Classic Malts in 1988, Talisker has rightly been a favourite of many, who appreciate this explosive and complex character. For them, this whisky is also known as "The golden spirit of Skye".

45.8% Vol.

Penderyn - Madeira

This Gold Medal Award-winning single malt is the only whisky from a distillery in Wales. This whisky is matured in bourbon casks and finished in Madeira casks which gives it a subtle flavor and complexity. Distilled in a unique copper pot still. This single malt whisky has a smooth and light character. Madeira finish defines the 'whisky' style of Penderyn.

46% Vol.

The Macallan, 12Y - Fine Oak

The 12 year old expression from Macallan’s Fine Oak range, matured in a selection of American and European oak casks seasoned with Sherry, as well as American oak casks seasoned with bourbon.

40% Vol.

Four Roses - Small Batch

Blending several bourbons is an art itself. 4 Original and limited Bourbons have been professionally selected at the peak of maturation and blended into a perfectly balanced small batch bourbon. Four Roses is conquering the world from Kentucky, by making a particularly fine and unique blend and the fact that the taste and quality is almost exactly the same as in previous batches. Sweet and spicy with a generous amount of vanilla.

45% Vol.

Laphroaig, 18 Y

Again a powerful Islay whisky with a higher alcohol content and the classic smokiness. The Laphroaig 18Y is characterized by the very full nose. The whisky has an elegant, complex body with the classic smoke of a good Islay. In the mouth are hints of burnt apricot, raisin and toffee. Enjoy this whisky with a few drops of water to reduce the smokiness and let the taste of chocolate come forward.

48% Vol.

The Glenlivet, 18 Y

Glenlivet is one of the most famous distilleries and whisky brands in the world. The location is considered by many as the perfect place to make whisky in a natural environment with high quality water and climate. This 18 year old single malt has a nice balance between fruit and dry tones, which arose under the influence of aging in oak and won gold at the International Wine and Spirits Competition 2 times!

43% Vol.

Glen Ord, 28 Y

In the year 1840 there were 9 stills registered on the small peninsula Black Isle. The only remaining distillery is Glen Ord, built in 1838 by Robert Johnstone and Donald McLennan. This exclusive whiskey was distilled in 1975 and bottled in 2003 at cask strenght of 58.3%. Jim Murray gave this malt 90 points in the Whisky Bible, and called him "blisteringly beautiful".

58% Vol.

Glenfarclas, 17 Y

This 17 year old Glenfarclas single malt whisky is available limited and released specifically for the North American, Japanese and travel-retail market. Glenfarclas is one of the few remaining Scottish distilleries, independent family owned. All whisky here matures in two types of oak barrels. Casks which previously Bourbon or Scotch whiskey matured and vessels, which previously contained Oloroso and Fino Sherry from Seville. A complex, full-bodied malt with a long finish.

43% Vol.

Macallan Director’s Edition

A prestigious and highly sought Macallan, complexity and character, created in collaboration with The Whisky Shop. Traditionally aged in ex-sherry casks, this is a special no-age-statement edition, stop put in 2012 as part of the rationalization of the range of the distillery.

40% Vol.

Milford, 10 Y

Whisky, coming from New Zealand. This area, with its clear rivers and fine soil for growing quality barley, making it ideally suited to stoke whiskey. Milford always aspired to create a whiskey that could compete with the best in the world. A well balanced powerful whiskey with a distinct style. Special "Limited Edition" whiskey distillery because the Milford some time ago is closed.

43% Vol.

Tomintoul - Peaty Tang

Tomintoul is the highest village in Scotland relative to sea level and serves as a base camp for mountaineers and hikers in the area. The wilderness around the distillery contrasts with the delicate malts of this district. Only 2% of total production is bottled as Single Malt. The rest is used for the blends. Tomintoul has developed a heavily peated spirit in recent years. This Single Malt does not have an age statement. Characteristic is the soft and delicate taste with a smoky edge.

40% Vol.

Hammerhead, 23 Y

Found: the only Bohemian single malt whisky in the world, traditionally distilled in 1989. Produced with Czech barley and pure Bohemian water and matured in 100% Czech oak barrels. In the autumn of 1989, the Berlin Wall fell, the world changed and this whisky was forgotten, left to sleep for 20 years in the cellars in its unique casks. Limited in volume, this unique finding will never be reproduced or rediscovered. Smooth and elegant with a floral nose and a long finish.

40.7% Vol.

Tomatin, 18 Y

Built in 1897 by The Tomatin-Spey District-Distillery Co. during the Whisky Boom, the Tomatin distillery is located about 315 metres above sea level, making it the fourth highest distillery in Scotland. Only a small quantity of Tomatin is released as Single Malt, most of it goes to the blends. This 18 year old Tomatin is unchill-filtered and matured for another 18 months on Oloroso Sherry casks from Spain.

46% Vol.

Kavalan - King Car

King Car (also called Conductor) is a more powerful version of the Kavalan Classic. The alcohol percentage of the King Car is 46 percent. It gives the whisky is more spicy profile, while retaining its smoothness. Soft notes of honey and vanilla make this whisky accessible, while it gets a fruity freshness from apples and pears.

46% Vol.

Lagavulin, 16 Y

The Lagavulin Distillery was established in 1816. This Islay representative in the series 'Classic Malts' is a powerhouse. Lagavulin is not for cowards. Declared 2012 'Best Islay from 13 to 20 years' and an IWSC Gold Medal. This whisky is a classic example of how smoke is not a blunt instrument, covering everything in a fog, but an element that works with all the facets that determine the taste in distillation and maturation. A complex Malt.

43% Vol.

Singleton - Tailfire

Tailfire is een van de twee onlangs gelanceerde ‘no age statement’ Singleton single malt Scotch whisky’s. Met behoud van het soepele, rijke karakter van de Singleton of Dufftown is deze whisky voor het grootste deel gerijpt op Europese eiken vaten, om het rijke en fruitige aroma van deze klassieke Speyside Malt whisky te versterken. De Tailfire heeft een levendig en verleidelijk karakter.

40% Vol.

Oban, 14 Y

The founders of the town of Oban, the Stevenson family, also built the distillery in 1794. Since the first train arrived in Oban in 1880, this place has been a major tourist attraction. From Oban Bay many ferries leave for the islands, which are located off the west coast. The name Oban comes from the surrounding area, which was named "An Ob". This means "Little Bay" (small bay of caves). These caves used to be excellent hiding places for the illegal stokers.

43% Vol.

Auchentoshan - Three Wood

Auchentoshan is one of the few remaining Lowland whisky distilleries. This single malt has matured in 3 different casks; Pedro Ximenez Sherry, bourbon and Oloroso Sherry casks. With a nose of creamy fruit, a taste with a light bitterness of dark chocolate and exceptional aftertaste, this is a distinctive triple distilled whisky that won double gold in 2013 in the San Francisco World Sprits Competition for Single Malts up to 12 years old.

43% Vol.

Dalwhinnie, 15 Y

Located 326 metres above sea level, the Dalwhinnie distillery is Scotland's highest distillery. In 1897 the distillery was built under the name Strathspey and in 1905 the name changed to Dalwhinnie. Due to its location, it used to be a resting place for cattle traders. The distillery has undergone little change in the more than 100 years of its existence. Dalwhinnie speaks of "The Gentle Spirit" when one talks about the malt. This 15-year-old Single Malt matured in Bourbon barrels.

43% Vol.

Bunnahabhain, 18 Y

Introduced in 2010, this is the new version of the Bunnahabhain 18 Y. Owner Burns Stewart decided to scrap caramel coloring and chill-filtration, and bottled the whisky at a higher percentage. This comes highly recommended and won a gold medal at the IWSC and the World Whiskies Awards 2014 in the category ‘Best Islay Single Malt.’

46% Vol.

Glenfarclas - Heritage

This special release is one of the newest whiskies from Glenfarclas, and also the youngest. This was originally intended for the French market and matured in ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks. Despite the lack of an age statement, this still has a remarkable taste.

40% Vol.

Bowmore, 12 Y

The Bowmore Distillery is located on the Scottish island of Islay. Because the distillery is located below sea level it has ideal conditions for maturation of whisky in re-fill-, sherry and bourbon casks. The water for the production comes from rainwater from the hills, flowing over the peat soil. Islay malts are famous for their peaty, smoky flavor and this 12 years matured Bowmore is no exception.

40% Vol.

Longmorn, 16 Y

This is the replacement of the 15-year-old and was part of the relaunch of Longmorn as a super-premium brand. The nose is fresh and green with notes of apple, citrus and spices. Balsa wood, calvados and dry oak. The taste is rich and dense with nuts and lemon peel. A nice amount of tannins, as well as herbs. The oak is dry and rich. Long and dry finish with a certain spiciness.

48% Vol.

Amrut - Single Malt

Distilled from barley from the North West of India. Amrut matures its single malt in ex-Bourbon casks and casks made from new American oak. The color is dark gold. The nose is fragrant with barley and grain as well as nuts, citrus and apricot. At first you’ll taste barley, then capsicum, apricot and rum. The finish is long, sweet and dry with notes of oak and a hint of toffee.

46% Vol.

Glenrothes - Select Reserve

With this Select Reserve, Glenrothes aims to bring a consistent quality of Single Malt whisky from casks selected by the Malt Master. He won the gold medal at the San Francisco Spirits Competition, which proves that this non-vintage Single Malt was made by him with exactly the same care and high standards as for the previous gold medal winners of the Glenrothe Distillery, the Vintages. This Select Reserve is preceded by a selection of 2-year non-vintage casks of careful testing and selecting.

43% Vol.

Black Burn - Reserve Malt

Don’t expect complexity and sophistication. Black Burn is a simple, yet smooth, fresh and fruity single malt with a clear sherry influence. De whisky is approximately six years old. The nose is fresh and sweet, with vanilla, caramel, malted barley and dried fruit. The taste is light and sweet with vanilla, fresh citrus and pickled fruit, making this an uncomplicated but tasty whisky.

40% Vol.

Royal Lochnagar - Distillers Edition

Each Distillers Edition receives a finish in former Muscat casks. The result is a beautiful soft and round whisky that is a joy to taste. It has a rich amber hue, while the nose displays strawberries and malt, with a hint of almond oil. Medium-bodied. The taste is creamy and fruity with a silky smoothness. The finish is soft and warming.

40% Vol.

Old Pulteney, 12 Y

At the founding in 1826, The Pulteney distillery was named after Sir William Pulteney, the former governor of the fishermen's association. Fully matured in air-dried, specially selected old bourbon casks, this whisky is still made according to the same artisan, traditional techniques that many other distilleries have abandoned long ago. This winner of several gold medals at several prestigious international competitions is an established name in quality whiskies.

40% Vol.

James E. Pepper - '1776' Rye

The mash bill is comprised of over 90% rye and no corn was used. The whiskey is non-chill filtered. The result is a smooth and subtle sweetness. De nose has a clear rye influence with aromas of citrus, clove and orange. The palate is soft and warming with clove and orange, as well as honey, chocolate and sweet spices. The long finish lingers on freshly baked bread.

46% Vol.

AnCnoc, 12 Y

In 1892 John Morrison bought the estate and the farm Knock. A water source was later found on the southern part of the estate. Morrison had this water tested at a company in Edinburgh and it turned out to be of very good quality for the production of whisky. The 5% whisky marketed by the Knockdhu distillery as Single Malt under the name An Cnoc is matured in refill- and bourbon casks. The quality of this Single Malt is constant and balanced.

40% Vol.

Macallan - Sienna

The Macallan distillery was one of the first whisky distilleries in Scotland, founded in 1824. This Sienna is the 3rd whisky in the '1824 Collection' of Macallan. The third darkest bottling in this 'no age statement' series, aged on Sherry casks. This is where the 1824 series becomes more intense. Sienna is a naturally occurring pigment and refers not only to the color tone, but also to the fact that Macallan whisky are all without added colorants.

43% Vol.

Glen Garioch - Founder's Reserve

Oldmeldrum, where the Glen Garioch distillery is located, was named the 'granary of Aberdeenshire' because of the production of the best Scottish golden barley. From 2008, the distillery only produces malt whisky with an alcohol content of 48 or higher, so that it can be produced non-chill-filtered. This single malt version is a tribute to the tradition of craftsmanship, needed to make the best Highland whiskies; a tradition that is maintained for more than 200 years.

48% Vol.

Redbreast, 12 Y

Redbreast is a Single Malt Pot Still Whiskey; the best Ireland has to offer. This Whiskey is made at Midleton and is considered to be the heart of the blended Jameson Whiskey. The very best barrels are not in Jameson's blend, but are kept separate and marketed under the name Redbreast. It is the most highly regarded Irish Whiskey worldwide; Redbreast has won many prizes and is very popular among connoisseurs.

40% Vol.

Benromach - Origins, Batch #5 ‘Golden Promise’

The name says it all: this is a beautiful single malt, made from a special barley variety. Origins is a fascinating range from Gordon & MacPhail, researching how changing the production process influences the characteristics of a whisky. Matured in American oak sherry casks.

50% Vol.

Glenfarclas - 105

This old version of the Glenfarclas 105 is now discontinued, although there currently is a modern version as well. It’s no problem adding a few drops of water to this whisky, until the prickly sensation in your nose subsides. Using multiple casks to create this expression ensures a consistent taste.

60% Vol.

Glentauchers, 6 Y

This whisky has won multiple awards, even though the label is one of the worst we’ve ever seen. However, what’s inside is what counts, and that’s where this 6 year old Glentauchers shines. A single cask bottled at an eye-watering 61 percent, exclusively for you as a subscriber.

61% Vol.

Tobermory, 19 Y - Single Cask

This Tobermory, 19 Y Single Cask is bottled by a German independent bottler, Anam na h-Alba. Only 232 bottles are available. Somewhat sweet and with a long finish, there are currently only 140 bottles available.

53% Vol.

Glenlivet, 12 Y ± ’80

This Glenlivet 12Y was bottled around 1980. We retrieved it for you from Spain, so you can try and taste the difference with the modern Glenlivet 12 Y. This is a fruity Scotch single malt and somewhat lacking in finish, and it is no longer available, making it extra special.

40% Vol.

Dunfife ± ’70

The Dunfife blended Scotch whisky was bottled around 1970. It’s a typical old blended whisky—almost always of higher quality than its modern counterparts. They made use of ingredients of a higher quality and old blends also had a lower ratio of grain whisky. Don’t add water. This last bottle was filled into samples by Tasting Collection, especially for you.

43% Vol.

Signatory - Inchmurrin, 1996

Loch Lomond was founded in 1965 and from the get-go it was somewhat of a strange addition to the whisky industry. Because they use so-called Lomond stills, the distillery can make up to 7 different whiskies. Inchmurrin is one of their standard single malts, which has been around for some time. This version is distilled in 1996 and bottled by Signatory Vintage. The whisky is robust, with fruit and spices. The soft floral notes are remarkable.

43% Vol.

Cardhu - Amber Rock

Cardhu Amber Rock is double matured in deep-painted American oak barrels, for richer notes of vanilla and herbs. Elegant and deeply flavoured, he still has the balance and clean sweet nutty taste that is typical of all Cardhu whisky; after being founded in 1824 by the woman and daughter-in-law of the founder, Helen and Elizabeth Cumming. The name' Cardhu' means' black rock' in Gaelic, The new' Amber Rock' variant reflects the golden gem-like colour of this new bottling.

40% Vol.

Tullibardine - 500 Sherry Finish

The Tullibardine distillery, beautifully situated in the beautiful surroundings of Blackford in Perthshire, was founded in 1947 and has a turbulent history of openings and closures. This new bottling has first matured in Bourbon casks, and then 12 months after that in 500 litre Sherry casks. The result is there; spicy and aromatic with a long aftertaste.

43% Vol.

Old Pulteney - Duncansby Head

This is the second bottling from the new ‘Lighthouse Series’ from Pulteney in Wick. This lighthouse is located on John O ‘Groats, a spectacular location. The whisky matured in ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks, giving it a rich, sweet and spicy flavor with a long finish. This Pulteney also displays a signature saltiness, to which it owes its nickname, the ‘Maritime Malt’.

46% Vol.

Connoisseurs Choice - Glenlossie, 1993

An independent bottling of Glenlossie single malt Scotch whisky, distilled in 1993 and bottled in 2012 by Gordon & MacPhail. While a large part of their production is used for Haig (a blended whisky), Glenlossie certainly shines as a single malt as well. This bottling from the Coinnoisseurs Choide series matured in first-fill sherry hogsheads. Sweet notes of sherry, apple and toffee, with black pepper, pineapple and grapefruit, followed by a dark chocolate finish.

46% Vol.

Classic of Islay by Jack Wiebers

This cask strength single malt from Islay is bottled by Jack Wieber, an independent bottler from Berlin. The label doesn’t specify a distillery, but it is very likely that this was made at Lagavulin. What makes the whisky extra special, is that it was transferred into a sherry cask at a young age. At Lagavulin everything currently matures in bourbon casks. This Classic of Islay is a limited edition release.

57.5% Vol.

Valued Club member,

It's already here; the new edition of the Tasting Collection Club, which provides you with a content that you maybe might not discover so quickly yourself.
In this edition you will also find a special request from one of our club members, who suggested the possibility of tasting a special Linkwood; a request we would like to follow up.

We wish you lots of tasting fun!

- Team Tasting Collection

Aberlour - White Oak, 2001

Most Aberlour Single malt whiskies are' double' matured. They are first individually matured in the best quality ex-sherry and ex-bourbon casks, which give the whisky a sweet and creamy fruit flavour. The complex process of double maturing results in a Single Malt with a delicious complexity and great character. This Aberlour 2001 was matured on American white oak barrels only.

40% Vol.

Edradour - Chardonnay, 2003

Edradour is perhaps the smallest legal distillery in the world, where 3 people make this artisanal whisky with the know-how of generations. Built in 1837, the distillery was taken over by William Whiteley in 1933, making it an important part of the Blend King Ransome. After Andrew Symington's takeover in 2003, the distillery was restored to its former glory. The first whisky was placed on a variety of casks, including this special Chardonnay cask.

46% Vol.

Caol Ila - Spirit of Scotland, 2006

Caol Ila is the largest distillery on Islay after the expansion in 2013. The whisky by Caol Ila is a much sought-after whisky by blenders such as Johnnie Walker, for the Double Black for example. Gordon & MacPhail, Scotland's most famous independent bottler, has bottled a Caol Ila cask, distilled in 2006, in their series Spirit of Scotland 2006, a very pure and heavy peated Caol Ila.

46% Vol.

Linkwood, 15 Y - G&M

Peter Brown began distilling whisky in 1824, after his death he was succeeded by his son. From 1902 to 1932 Innes Cameron managed the distillery. After the Second World War reopened, administrator Roderick Mackenzie did not change anything; fear to affect the quality. By far the majority of whisky goes to Johnnie Walker, only a very small part of the production is sold by third parties as single malt, such as this 15-year-old whisky, bottled by Gordon & MacPhail.

43% Vol.

Tamdhu, 10 Y

This old distillery had a rebirth at the last Speyside festival, after being bought by Glengoyne. One of the first releases is this new Tamdhu 10 years. Sandy Couts, the previous distillery manager at Glenrothes, now runs the distillery. Very recently, this brand new Tamdhu 10 years came out, from a combination of European sherry casks and American' first fill barrels'.

40% Vol.

Writer's Tears - Red Head

This whisky brings an tribute to the time when ' Pure Pot Still' whiskies predominated in Ireland. Due to the use of malted and unmalted barley, which was very common in Ireland over 100 years ago, it is a very different Irish whiskey. This Writer's Tears is the result of both Single Malt and Pot Still, the outcome is a whiskey with one of the highest scores in the leading' Whisky Bible' by Jim Murray.

46% Vol.

Dear Club member,

Tasting Collection Club again presents you 6 special whiskies, which our experts believe you should not be denied.
Also in this edition you will find familiar and more unknown species; each with its own story, so that you will know a little more about the provenance and background when tasting.

We wish you lots of tasting fun!

- Team Tasting Collection

Glenmorangie - Nectar D'Or

Glenmorangie is an intriguing distillery. They have the tallest stills in Scotland, they are pioneers in the maturing of wood and they even have their own forests in the USA. This Nectar D' Or has matured 10 years on American wood and 2 years finished on French wood, in which a Sauternes, a slightly sweet white Bordeaux wine, has matured.

46% Vol.

Millstone, 12Y - Sherry Cask

In Baarle Nassau, just inside the Netherlands, is the distillery of the Zuidam family. Since 1999 they have stoked there a particularly beautiful whisky, their Millstone, named after the millstones of a neighboring mill where they grind their barley. This 12 year old whisky has matured on very good Spanish Sherry casks, the colour already tells us that it is an intensely matured whisky.

46% Vol.

Connoisseurs Choice - Ledaig, 1996

On the island of Mull is only 1 distillery. Opened in 1798, named after, and located in, the picturesque capital Tobermory. Since 1996 they have not been making one but two different whiskies in the same kettles. The Tobermory is an unpeated, this Ledaig is the peated, therefore smokey, variant. A sturdy, intense whisky.

46% Vol.

Glen Scotia, 12 Y

The Glen Scotia distillery in Campbeltown was opened in 1832. Glen Scotia has produced little to no whisky for a long time, but since its takeover by Loch Lomond in 1999, production has returned to normal. Recently, very limited, five new new bottlings have emerged, including these special 12-year-old one.

46% Vol.

Highland Park - Svein

The Highland Park distillery, founded in 1825, is located on the Orkney Islands, north of Scotland. Svein was the Viking chieftain, whose legendary acts constitute the heart of the 'Orkneyinga saga'. This bottling is part of Highland Park's new 'Warrior series'. Along with Einar, Harald, Sigurd, Ragnavald and Thorfinn honored again as Highland Park Nordic heritage. The differences between the different warriors are reflected in the proportion of European oak barrels Sherry which are used for the different bottlings.

40% Vol.

Dear Club member,

Tasting Collection Club welcomes you. With your membership you have something very special in your hands. Because we offer you the opportunity to get familiar with those Whiskies that should not be missing in any collection, whiskies that are already collector's items and whiskies that we think every whisky lover should know. In short, whiskies that are worth tasting!

We wish you lots of tasting fun!

- Team Tasting Collection

Arran - Millenium Casks

The Arran Millennium Casks are filled with whisky, stoked on 31-12-1999 and on 1-1-2000. The total' batch' consists of 35 bourbon barrels and 10 sherry barrels. Only 7,800 bottles have been filled after 13 years of maturation. The whisky is not coloured and' unchillfiltered' in order to give it its full flavour. To underline that, the whisky is put in the bottle undiluted.

53.3% Vol.

Macallan - 2003 Speymalt

The Speymalt 2003 is not bottled by Macallan themselves, but by Gordon & MacPhail, an independent bottler from the Scottish Speyside. They buy the spirit from Macallan's boilers and let them mature on their own, in this case' refill' sherry drums, in their warehouses in Elgin. Macallan's whisky is recognizable by its sturdy character, they have relatively small pots. By the choice of G&M for high quality sherry barrels, this Speymalt 2003 still has the typical Macallan flavour.

46% Vol.

Benromach - Origins #4 Port Pipes, 2003

With the purchase of Benromach, Gordon & MacPhail started the mission to make a whisky as it was common 100 years ago. The use of much smaller kettles has given the new Benromach a much stronger character. The Origins series goes back to earlier times. In this limited 4th' batch' they used for the maturing of this slightly peated (8ppm) old-fashioned Port casks of 500 litres. This gives the whisky a nice full fruity taste, sweet tones and a light smokey character.

50% Vol.

Springbank, 12 Y - Cask Strength

Springbank is the only remaining distillery that still stokes the real Campbeltown whisky. All barley is still malted on their own malt floors and dried on a peat fire; a rarity. The 12-year-old Cask Strength has been bottled undiluted in a small edition and is, as it should be: lightly smokey, firm and full, with fruity tones and a characteristic spiciness.

50.3% Vol.

Kilchoman - Coull Point

Kilchoman is the youngest (2005), but a traditional distillery of the famous whisky island Islay. This is where a sturdy, daring whisky is made from barley malted on its own malt floors. In the kiln, the malt is smoked exclusively with peat smoke, which gives the typical strong smoke flavour. This limited bottling, named after the rocky coastal region, has matured over 4 years on bourbon casks and afterwards has matured on Oloroso sherry casks. This gives the whisky a sweet and spicy hint.

46% Vol.

Glendronach, 12 Y

The Glendronach distillery was originally built in 1826 but has been out of use for ages. After its reopening in 2002, the complete range from 12, 15 and 18 years old was reintroduced in 2009. The character of this whisky arises from a combination of the Glendronach own malted barley, peat and water from the Highlands. This malt matured for 12 years in a combination of Oloroso and Pedro Ximenez barrels. Silver medal winner in the International Wine & Spirit Competition 2013.

43% Vol.