Whisky

Whisky: An In-Depth Guide to Types and Regions

Introduction to Whisky: Whisky, also spelled whiskey, is a renowned distilled spirit cherished by aficionados across the globe. Crafted from fermented grains and aged in wooden barrels, whisky gains its complexity and character over time. This comprehensive encyclopedia entry will delve into the diverse types of whisky and the regions where they are produced, offering valuable insights for whisky enthusiasts and novices alike.

Types of Whisky:

  1. Scotch Whisky: Scotch whisky, often hailed as the epitome of whisky craftsmanship originates from Scotland and holds a special place in the hearts of whisky connoisseurs. To be legally considered Scotch, the spirit must be distilled and matured in oak barrels in Scotland for a minimum of three years. It is produced using malted barley, and various regions in Scotland are known for distinct styles and flavours.

    • Single Malt Scotch Whisky: Made exclusively from malted barley in a single distillery, Single Malt Scotch showcases the character of the distillery's craftsmanship and the influence of the local terroir.

    • Single Grain Scotch Whisky: Unlike Single Malt, Single Grain Scotch is made from grains other than barley and comes from a single distillery. This type of whisky often contributes to blended Scotch varieties.

    • Blended Scotch Whisky: Comprising a skilful blend of Single Malt and Single Grain Scotch whiskies from different distilleries, Blended Scotch offers a balanced and harmonious flavour profile.

    • Regions: Scotland's whisky regions include Speyside, known for its elegant and fruity expressions; Islay, famous for its peaty and smoky whiskies; Highland, offering a diverse range of flavours; Lowland, known for its light and floral whiskies; and Campbeltown, with a distinctive maritime influence.

  2. Irish Whiskey: Irish whiskey, cherished for its smooth and approachable taste, hails from Ireland. Triple distillation is a hallmark of Irish whiskey production, resulting in a smoother spirit. Like Scotch, Irish whiskey must be aged for a minimum of three years in wooden casks. The types of Irish whiskey include:

    • Single Malt Irish Whiskey: Crafted from 100% malted barley in a single distillery, Single Malt Irish Whiskey showcases the unique flavours of the barley and the distillery's craftsmanship.

    • Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey: Made from a combination of malted and unmalted barley, Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey offers a distinctive spicy and creamy character.

    • Blended Irish Whiskey: Combining various styles and flavours, Blended Irish Whiskey offers a versatile and well-rounded drinking experience.

  3. American Whiskey: The United States has a rich history of whiskey production, and American whiskeys are known for their diverse and unique styles. American whiskey is produced using a mash bill containing grains like corn, rye, barley, and wheat. The main types of American whiskey are:

    • Bourbon: Made primarily from corn, Bourbon must contain at least 51% corn in the mash bill. It gains complexity from aging in new charred oak barrels, contributing to its sweet and rich flavour profile.

    • Rye Whiskey: With at least 51% rye in the mash bill, Rye Whiskey exhibits a spicier and more robust character, making it a favourite for cocktails like the classic Old Fashioned.

    • Tennessee Whiskey: Similar to Bourbon, Tennessee Whiskey undergoes an additional step called the Lincoln County Process, wherein the whiskey is filtered through charcoal before aging, imparting a smoother taste.

    • Other American Whiskey Types: Other notable American whiskeys include Corn Whiskey (made from at least 80% corn), Malt Whiskey (made primarily from malted barley), and Wheat Whiskey (containing at least 51% wheat).

  4. Canadian Whisky: Canada's whisky tradition is known for its smoothness and versatility. Canadian whisky is typically a blend of different grain whiskies, often including corn, rye, barley, and wheat. The production process involves distilling the grains separately and then blending them to create a harmonious and approachable whisky.

  5. Japanese Whisky: Japan has gained global acclaim for its outstanding whisky production, drawing inspiration from Scottish techniques. Japanese whisky focuses on precision and attention to detail, resulting in refined and elegant expressions. Many Japanese distilleries use traditional copper pot stills and age their whisky in a combination of American and Japanese oak barrels.

Regions of Whisky Production:

  1. Scotland: As the birthplace of whisky, Scotland boasts a diverse landscape of whisky regions, each influencing the character of its whiskies. From the lush and fruity expressions of Speyside to the smoky and maritime whiskies of Islay, Scotland's whisky regions offer a remarkable journey through flavours and traditions.

  2. Ireland: Irish whiskey production primarily centres in regions like County Cork and County Antrim. The island's unique climate and pristine water sources contribute to the smoothness and balance found in Irish whiskies.

  3. United States: American whiskey is crafted across various states, each imparting distinct characteristics to the final product. Kentucky, often referred to as the birthplace of Bourbon, remains a notable region for its traditional whiskey production.

  4. Canada: With a long-standing whisky tradition, Canada's whisky production thrives in provinces like Ontario and British Columbia, offering a wide array of blends and styles.

  5. Japan: Japan's whisky scene has garnered international recognition, with distilleries in regions like Hokkaido and Yamazaki crafting exceptional and refined whiskies.

Whisky, in all its diverse types and regions, is a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of distillers worldwide. Whether you're a seasoned whisky enthusiast or a curious newcomer, exploring the vast array of whisky expressions can be an enlightening and enjoyable journey. From the peaty Scotch whiskies of Scotland to the smooth and elegant Japanese whiskies, each glass holds a story of tradition, innovation, and the undeniable allure of whisky.

 

Whisky Appreciation and Tasting:

Appreciating whisky goes beyond merely sipping the spirit; it involves engaging all the senses to fully experience its complexity and character. When tasting whisky, it is essential to consider its appearance, aroma, taste, and finish:

  1. Appearance: Observe the whisky's colour and clarity. The aging process and the type of cask used can influence the hue, ranging from pale gold to deep amber. Swirl the whisky in the glass to assess its viscosity or "legs," which provide clues about the spirit's texture and body.

  2. Aroma: Gently bring the glass to your nose and take in the aromas. Whisky's bouquet can be incredibly diverse, featuring notes such as fruity, floral, smoky, spicy, and woody. Allow the whisky to breathe for a moment to fully appreciate the depth of its aromas.

  3. Taste: Take a small sip and let the whisky coat your palate. Pay attention to the flavours that unfold, which might include sweet caramel, vanilla, ripe fruits, peat smoke, or hints of spices. The interaction of the spirit with your taste buds will reveal its complexity.

  4. Finish: The finish refers to the lingering taste and sensation after swallowing the whisky. Some whiskies have a short and crisp finish, while others leave a long-lasting, warming sensation with lingering flavours. The finish can be a crucial element in assessing a whisky's overall quality.

Whisky and Food Pairing:

Pairing whisky with complementary foods can enhance both the whisky and the culinary experience. Here are some general guidelines to consider when pairing whisky with food:

  1. Cheese: Creamy and nutty cheeses, like Brie and Gouda, work well with smooth and mellow whiskies. Stronger cheeses, such as blue cheese or aged cheddar, can be paired with more robust and peaty whiskies.

  2. Chocolate: Rich, dark chocolates pair harmoniously with sweeter and sherry-cask-matured whiskies. The combination can create a delightful balance of sweetness and bitterness.

  3. Seafood: Light and delicate seafood dishes, like sushi or oysters, can be complemented by light and floral whiskies, allowing the flavours to shine without overwhelming the palate.

  4. Barbecue and Grilled Meats: Bold and smoky whiskies, like peated Scotch or smoky bourbon, can stand up to the robust flavours of grilled meats and barbecue dishes.

  5. Spicy Foods: Spicy cuisine, such as Indian or Mexican dishes, can be balanced with whiskies that have a higher alcohol content and robust flavours.

Whisky Collecting and Investment:

In recent years, whisky collecting has surged in popularity, with enthusiasts seeking rare and limited-edition bottles. While collecting whisky can be a rewarding hobby, it's essential to approach it with caution, especially if considering whisky as an investment. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

  1. Research: Thoroughly research the whisky market and understand which bottles are highly sought after and have the potential for appreciation in value.

  2. Authenticity: Be wary of counterfeit bottles, especially with rare and expensive whiskies. Buy from reputable sources and verify the authenticity of bottles before making significant purchases.

  3. Storage: Proper storage is crucial to maintaining the value of your whisky collection. Store bottles upright in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperature fluctuations.

  4. Diversification: Consider diversifying your whisky collection across different brands, regions, and vintages to mitigate risks associated with fluctuations in the market.

  5. Enjoyment: While whisky collecting can be an investment, it is essential to remember the primary purpose of whisky: enjoyment. savour and share your collection with friends and fellow whisky enthusiasts to fully appreciate the artistry of the spirit.

Whisky, with its rich history, diverse types, and distinctive regional characteristics, continues to captivate the hearts of enthusiasts worldwide. From the peat-laden whiskies of Islay to the smooth and elegant expressions of Japan, each bottle tells a unique story of craftsmanship and tradition. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks or paired with delectable cuisine, whisky offers an experience that engages all the senses. So, raise a glass, toast to the legacy of this timeless spirit, and embark on an exciting journey of whisky exploration and appreciation. Slàinte mhath!

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Weight: 0.800 kg
Barrell 10yo Single Barrel Tennessee Bourbon Whiskey bottled exclusively for the Virtual USA Whisky Show Barrell Bourbon Single Barrel: ZI19 Age: 10 years old Distilled in: Tennessee Proof: 101.2 ABV 50.6%
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Weight: 1.500 kg
In 2019, we partnered with small and large producers across the United States to select malt whiskeys that express the full diversity of American terroir and style. The resulting blend was the first to showcase the growing category of American single malt in this way. American Vatted Malt is an homage to the old Scottish category of vatted malt, which was once the preferred nomenclature to describe a blended whisky made entirely from single malts. We chose the name “American Vatted Malt” as an homage to the old Scottish category of vatted malt, which was once the preferred nomenclature to describe a blended whisky made entirely from...
In stock
Weight: 1.500 kg
In 2019, we partnered with small and large producers across the United States to select malt whiskeys that express the full diversity of American terroir and style. The resulting blend was the first to showcase the growing category of American single malt in this way. American Vatted Malt is an homage to the old Scottish category of vatted malt, which was once the preferred nomenclature to describe a blended whisky made entirely from single malts. We chose the name “American Vatted Malt” as an homage to the old Scottish category of vatted malt, which was once the preferred nomenclature to describe a blended whisky made entirely from...
Barrell Craft Spirits 7YO Rye Whisky 750ml -13%
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Weight: 0.800 kg
Barrell 7yo Single Barrel Straight Rye Whiskey bottled exclusively for the Virtual USA Whisky Show bottled at a natural cask strength of 54.94%
$20799 $23919
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Weight: 1.500 kg
Seagrass highlights the grassy oceanside notes we love in rye and the opulence and spice of finishing barrels. It is a blend of American and Canadian rye whiskeys, with each ingredient meticulously sourced and finished separately in Martinique Rhum, Madeira & apricot brandy barrels. A basket brimming with tropical and orchard fruits lies at the heart of this juicy whiskey, with prominent tones of ripe apricot from the brandy casks. The tropical notes are kept in check by a broad array of spicy and herbaceous rye aromas and complemented by the delicate florals of grassy, Martinique rhum. With a splash of water, the oxidized...
In stock
Weight: 1.500 kg
Seagrass highlights the grassy oceanside notes we love in rye and the opulence and spice of finishing barrels. It is a blend of American and Canadian rye whiskeys, with each ingredient meticulously sourced and finished separately in Martinique Rhum, Madeira & apricot brandy barrels. A basket brimming with tropical and orchard fruits lies at the heart of this juicy whiskey, with prominent tones of ripe apricot from the brandy casks. The tropical notes are kept in check by a broad array of spicy and herbaceous rye aromas and complemented by the delicate florals of grassy, Martinique rhum. With a splash of water, the oxidized...
Basil Hayden's Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey 700ml -11%
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In 1796, Master Distiller Basil Hayden Sr. broke ‘the rules’ by mixing small grains into the mash of a traditional bourbon corn base, thinking that the spicy flavour of rye would be a striking complement to the sweet smoothness of corn. Basil Hayden’s Bourbon is a masterpiece – a unique, singular small batch bourbon whiskey with rich hints of peppermint, notes of pepper, slight citrus overtones, and a spicy, warming finish.
Batch & Bottle Glenfiddich Scotch Manhattan 500ml -9%
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Weight: 0.800 kg
A Manhattan ready to pour and enjoy now. This bright and balanced single malt soothes the sharp bitters and envelops the sweet vermouth, creating a bold yet delicate cocktail. The mighty Manhattan needs a mighty Scotch. So we’ve chosen a bold contender – Glenfiddich. This bright and balanced single malt soothes the sharp bitters and envelops the sweet vermouth, creating a cocktail that is both bold and delicate.
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Bearded Lady Bourbon hails from 5 Square Mile Distillery in Lawrenceburg Indiana, where in 1847 the process of distilling smooth American Bourbon was perfected. This strong town that has stood tall through tough times inspired our bourbon of unparalleled strength. Like the circus attraction of the same name, the Bearded Lady provokes curiosity and wonder. It has a strength that runs deep, both in liquid and in character.
Bearface Canadian Whisky 700ml -12%
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Weight: 0.800 kg
Bearface Triple Oak is the result of exhaustive experimentation. A Canadian whisky with a bold finish derived from three different oaks, each selected for the distinct flavour they impart. This exceptional single grain whisky starts life aging in ex-bourbon charred American Oak barrels for a minimum of 7 years, imparting warm smooth vanilla notes. It is then placed in tight-grained French Oak ex-wine barrels with over 7 years of use for high end, rich Bordeaux-style wines from Mission Hill Family Estate Winery, adding luscious dry fruit notes and a deep ruby colour. The final finish – a first in Canadian whisky – is with 3-year-old,...
Bearface Elementally Aged Canadian Whisky 700ML -10%
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Bearface Elementally Aged Canadian Whisky 700ML ABV : 42.5% Country : Canada Brand : Bearface Quantity : 1 Bottle
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Weight: 1.600 kg
 The unique flavour of Bell's Blended Scotch Whisky comes from some of the finest malt whiskies in Scotland - from the fresh, sweet malts of Speyside to the smoky sea salt of the Islands - all matured in selected oak casks to produce the UK's most popular blended Scotch whisky. Tasting Notes: Soft and gentle on the nose, the floral notes follow through to the palate to offer a whisky with a smooth medium body.
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Weight: 1.600 kg
 The unique flavour of Bell's Blended Scotch Whisky comes from some of the finest malt whiskies in Scotland - from the fresh, sweet malts of Speyside to the smoky sea salt of the Islands - all matured in selected oak casks to produce the UK's most popular blended Scotch whisky. Tasting Notes: Soft and gentle on the nose, the floral notes follow through to the palate to offer a whisky with a smooth medium body.
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Weight: 0.900 kg
Benriach The Twenty One, Speyside single malt scotch whisky has been crafted from a combination of unpeated and peated spirit and four cask matured for at least twenty one years in sherry casks, bourbon barrels, virgin oak casks and Bordeaux red wine casks. Nose:   Elegant honey smoke and ripe red fruits. Palate:   Lush orchard fruit and toasted pine wood. Finish:   Long and complex with smoked honey. Only one bottle available.
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Bottled at 43% vol, the Benriach 10 Years Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky is classic Speyside in character. This fresh, lively, fruit-laden single malt captures warm oak spices, green apple, dried apricots, peach and banana with subtle touches of aniseed, lemon zest and barley. The cask formula focuses on ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks – exactly the types of wood we favour at Benriach.
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700mL @ 46% abv The wood rich Highland peat we use to craft peated BenRiach spirit is sourced from the region’s fertile landscape, imparting sweet, smoky campfire notes into our whisky. For over four decades, we have been quietly maturing peated BenRiach spirit in our traditional, earthen floored dunnage warehouses, in an intriguing range of carefully selected casks.
-13%
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BenRiach 10 Year Old Triple Distilled Single Malt Scotch Whisky is a refined expression that highlights the distillery's innovative approach. this whisky undergoes triple distillation, setting it apart from the more common double-distilled malts and contributing to its smooth and polished character. The light gold whisky offers a fresh, vibrant nose with citrus fruits, green apple, and a hint of vanilla, complemented by subtle floral undertones and a touch of maltiness. On the palate, it delivers a creamy texture with flavors of ripe fruits, honey, and delicate spices, alongside a hint of toasted oak. The finish is clean and crisp, with...
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700mL @ 46% abv The Smoky Twelve is the perfect marriage of fruit, malt, oak and rich layers of smoke. Three cask matured in an unconventional mix of bourbon, sherry and Marsala wine, this creamy and smooth single malt is multi-layered with flavours of ripened fruit, aromatic smoky sweetness and warming oak spice.
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To make Benriach Twelve, Benriach spirit is three cask matured for at least twelve years in sherry casks, bourbon barrels and port casks. The whisky from each cask is then expertly married together to create a smooth, sherry-rich single malt, layered with baked fruit, maple honey and cocoa, perfectly balanced with a lingering sultana and spiced mocha finish. This special release is presented in a special canister celebrating the Chinese New Year 2023, which is the Year of the Rabbit.
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BenRiach 21 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky is a testament to the art of Speyside maturation. Aged in a mix of American oak and Oloroso sherry casks, it boasts a rich amber color. The aroma is filled with ripe fruits —apples and pears—enhanced by honey, vanilla, and dark chocolate, with hints of oak and spice. The palate is a symphony of dried fruits, toffee, and nutty flavors, enriched by the sherry cask's complexity. The finish is long and warming, leaving a sweet trail of chocolate and dried fruit with a touch of oak spice.
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T his four-cask matured, extra-aged Benriach was first offered in 2018 and now debuts in Australia. Matured in a combination of Bourbon, Virgin oak, Pedro Ximénez sherry and red wine casks, Head Distiller, Rachel Barrie describes it as full of candied peel, honeyed malt and barley sugar flavours
BenRiach 21YO Single Malt Scotch Whisky 700mL
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700mL @ 46% abv This exquisite single malt has been crafted from a combination of unpeated and peated spirit and four cask matured for at least twenty one years in bourbon barrels, sherry casks, virgin oak casks and Bordeaux red wine casks. During long maturation Benriach’s sweet Speyside smoke mellows and integrates with the fruit, malt and oak. After twenty one years, rich layering develops into an elegant honey smoke, enriched through multi-layered cask maturation. The whisky from each cask type, imbued with particular flavour characteristics, is then expertly married together to create a rich and elegant single malt, layered with...
Benriach 22 Year Old 1997 Cask 2790 Scotch Whisky 700ml -2%
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Weight: 1.000 kg
Immerse yourself in the exquisite flavors of BenRiach 22 Year Old 1997 Cask 2790 Scotch Whisky. Distilled in 1997 and aged for 22 years in Pedro Ximenez puncheon, each of the 636 bottles released is a true gem. Enjoy the sweet, buttery taste with overripe stone fruit and spices, followed by a long, fruity and sweet finish. ABV 55.20%
$43679 $44719
In stock
Weight: 1.400 kg
Exclusively Selected For France 665 Bottles Worldwide From a single 1st Fill Cask, number 15059, that previously contained Oloroso Sherry, this unpeated Single Cask has notes of cherry and banana with components of dark chocolate, dried apricot and creamy vanilla. A whisky that was distilled on July 14, 1997 and bottled on January 17, 2022 with only 665 numbered bottles. A real treasure that has rested for 24 years in the distillery’s cellar. Tasting Notes: Colour: Stained teakwood. Nose: Crème brulée and chocolate-coates hazelnut, with cherrywood, driad apple and fig.  Palate: Cherry and banana...
In stock
Weight: 1.400 kg
Exclusively Selected For France 665 Bottles Worldwide From a single 1st Fill Cask, number 15059, that previously contained Oloroso Sherry, this unpeated Single Cask has notes of cherry and banana with components of dark chocolate, dried apricot and creamy vanilla. A whisky that was distilled on July 14, 1997 and bottled on January 17, 2022 with only 665 numbered bottles. A real treasure that has rested for 24 years in the distillery’s cellar. Tasting Notes: Colour: Stained teakwood. Nose: Crème brulée and chocolate-coates hazelnut, with cherrywood, driad apple and fig.  Palate: Cherry and banana...
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BenRiach 25 Year Old Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky is an exceptional expression that showcases the depth and complexity achieved through long-term maturation. Aged for 25 years, this whisky boasts a deep, rich amber color, indicative of its extensive time in cask. On the nose, it offers a harmonious blend of dried fruits like fig and apricot, layered with honey, vanilla, and spiced oak, with subtle hints of dark chocolate and coffee. The palate is full-bodied, with notes of ripe fruit, caramel, and delicate spices, accompanied by a refined, slightly smoky undertone from the oak. The finish is long and elegant, leaving lingering...
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700mL @ 46% abv A richly sumptuous single malt, interwoven with mellow smoke and a masterful curation of oak. Crafted from a combination of unpeated and peated spirit and four cask matured for at least twenty five years in sherry casks, bourbon barrels, virgin oak casks and Madeira Island wine casks. During long maturation Benriach’s sweet Speyside smoke mellows and integrates with the fruit, malt and oak. After twenty-five years, rich layering develops into caramelised smoke, further enhanced through multi-layered cask maturation. The whisky from each cask type, imbued with particular flavour characteristics, is then expertly married...
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BenRiach 30 Year Old Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky is a meticulously crafted expression that exemplifies the art of aging. This distinguished whisky is a blend of unpeated and peated spirits, aged for at least thirty years in a variety of cask types, including bourbon barrels, sherry casks, virgin oak casks, and Bordeaux red wine casks. Each cask imparts its unique flavors, contributing to the whisky's rich complexity. The result is a single malt with a harmonious balance of sweet Speyside smoke, lush orchard fruit, and toasted pine wood. The whisky offers a luxurious honey smoke finish, reflecting its extensive maturation and...
Benriach 30YO Single Malt Scotch Whisky 700mL
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700mL @ 46% abv This exquisite single malt has been crafted from peated spirit and four cask matured for at least thirty years in sherry casks, bourbon barrels, virgin oak casks and port casks from the Douro Valley. During long maturation Benriach’s sweet Speyside smoke mellows and integrates with the fruit, malt and oak. After thirty years, rich layering develops into sublime honeyed smoke, further enhanced through multi-layered cask maturation. The whisky from each cask type, imbued with particular flavour characteristics, is then expertly married together to create an exquisitely harmonious single malt, layered with dark fruits, rich...
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Weight: 1.000 kg
A Speyside single malt Scotch whisky as intriguing and extraordinary as Benriach could not have come to be without a unique whisky making heritage, dating from 1898, when founder John Duff built his distillery. Ruggedly beautiful, Benriach stands on the site of the old Riach farm in north Speyside, drawing water from a mineral-rich aquifer, deep beneath the distillery. Thanks to a long-standing tradition of distilling three styles of whisky; classic unpeated, Highland peated and triple distilled, together with an eclectic selection of casks from around the world, their whisky makers are able to explore the full flavour possibilities of...
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Weight: 1.000 kg
Benriach has peated reserves dating back to 1975 and in 2004 became the first Speysider to release a peated expression since World War II with BenRiach 'Curiositas'. The thirty year old is the oldest edition in the 'Authenticus' range of peaty Highlanders. The style is different from Islanders as the peat is cut in the North-East of Scotland, containing a prevalence of wood derived from ancient trees, heather and bracken. The burning of this peat infuses the barely with sweet smoke and aromatic spices, said to be reminiscent of "a campfire in a Speyside forest." ABV 46%
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The BenRiach CURIOSITAS uses a heavily peated malted barley as the cereal varietal to produce a unique, fresh, peated expression. This rare peated single malt, from the Heartland of Speyside, has wonderful overtones of PEAT reek, combined cleverly with a background of FRUITY, FLORAL, heathery notes and an appealing presence of OAKWOOD in the finish. Traditionalists believe that peated malts achieve the optimum balance of peat-bittersweet and oak infusion after 10 YEARS of maturation. In fact, peated BenRiach is a return to the ORIGINAL Speyside character and flavour of malts typical of the nineteenth century. Curiositas is a DISTINCTIVE...
Benriach Malting Season Second Edition Single Malt Scotch Whisky 700ml -7%
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Weight: 1.000 kg
The inaugural release of this small batch offering yielded around 6600 bottles and was the first expression in a century produced entirely using barley malted from the Speyside distillery's historic floor maltings. For the second edition, Master Blender, Rachel Barrie selected Concerto barley malted in the Autumn of 2013. Stewart Buchanan, global Brand Ambassador at Benriach, commented “Passed from maltster to maltster throughout the generations, the highly skilled process of floor malting keeps a traditional part of the whisky making process alive, paying homage to Benriach’s creative whisky making heritage... Each new edition of...
$14559 $15599
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The BenRiach Albariza is distilled from peated malted barley, matured in American oak casks and then finished in Pedro Ximenez Sherry casks. This whisky has been named after the white soil with high chalk content typical for the Andalucia region in Southern Spain, whose characteristics make it the best type of soil for growing grapes used in the production of sherry. This unusual Single Malt cleverly combines the dístinct and contrasting aromas and flavours associated with richly peated malt whisky and the elegant style of wood selected for final maturation. Tasting notes: NOSE Crisp candied peel holds waves of soft peach and ripe...
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BenRiach Quarter Casks Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky is a distinctive expression known for its unique maturation process. Aged in traditional American oak casks and finished in smaller quarter casks, it offers a rich and complex character with notes of vanilla, honey, and fruit, enhanced by layers of spice and toasted oak. This vibrant and flavorful single malt showcases the depth and versatility of BenRiach’s craftsmanship.
Benriach The Original Ten 10 Year Old Single Malt Whisky 700ml -6%
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A classic combination combined with Benriach's fruity spirit makes for a great tasting and easy-drinking whisky. Bourbon and sherry casks give this ten-year-old whisky layers of fruit and sweet vanilla, while virgin oak gives an extra kick of spice.
Benriach The Smokey Twelve 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky 700ml -5%
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Weight: 0.800 kg
The Smoky Twelve is the perfect marriage of fruit,malt, oak and rich layers of smoke. Crafted from a combination of unpeated and peated spirit and three cask matured for at least twelve years in bourbon barrels, sherry casks, and Marsala wine casks. The whisky from each cask is then expertly married together to create a smooth, creamy single malt, multilayered with flavours of ripened fruit, aromatic smoky sweetness and warming oak spice. ABV 46%
$10919 $11439
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A fruity whisky that shows-off the darker, lesser-known side of Benriach's whisky: peaty and smoky spirit. This ten-year old brings together bourbon and virgin-oak casks with Jamaican-rum casks, for a fruity, smoky and spicy dram.
Benriach The Twelve 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky 700ml -5%
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A beautiful Benriach, taking the distillery's fruity spirit and adding layers of rich and dark flavour to it. Aged for 12 years in bourbon, sherry and port casks, it's a spicy dram with loads of dried fruit and soft spice.
$10919 $11439
Benrinnes 2009 12 Year Old Single Malts of Scotland Reserve Casks Parcel 9 Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky 700ml -6%
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Weight: 1.000 kg
A 12-year-old Benrinnes single malt from independent bottler Elixir Distillers, matured in a batch of four refill sherry hogsheads and bottled as part of its Single Malts of Scotland Reserve Casks series Parcel No.9. Aromas of old leather, cherries, sandalwood, clove and cinnamon fill the nose, complemented by notes of Black Forest gateau, flaked almonds, coffee beans, ginger snaps and cherry cola throughout the palate and lingering in the finish. ABV 48%
$15599 $16639
In stock
Weight: 0.800 kg
Benromach Distillery in Speyside has unveiled the first annual batch release of its 40 Years Old, with just 1,132 bottles available worldwide. Bottled at a cask strength of 57.6%, this rare single malt whisky is natural in colour and was laid down in 1981 before spending four decades maturing in the finest first-fill Oloroso sherry casks. The result is an exquisite single malt and the oldest expression released in Benromach’s new look line up which was launched in June 2020. The 2022-release of Benromach 40 Year Old has been matured in sherry casks to create aromas of cinnamon, ginger, Seville orange, roasted hazelnut and...
Benromach Contrasts Cara Gold Malt 2010 700ml -7%
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Weight: 0.800 kg
A limited release single malt from Benromach distillery's Contrasts series, Cara Gold Malt is made with malted Cara Gold barley as well as lightly peated malt and has been matured in first-fill bourbon barrels. Aromas of passionfruit, lychee, lime and malted biscuit fill the nose, complemented by notes of pineapple, juicy apricot, black pepper, toasted malt, butterscotch and sweet, smoky honey throughout the palate. ABV 46%
$13519 $14559
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700mL @ 46% abv | Distilled 2010 - Bottled 2021 Small batch made with heavily peated barley. Benromach Peat Smoke is matured in first-fill bourbon barrels. It offers fragrant vanilla notes, which lead to lemon sherbet and apricot, finishing with smoky bonfire embers.
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BENROMACH ORGANIC 43% 700ML MATURATION : Matured in organic, virgin oak casks. Pour yourself a dram of this beautiful Speysider, lift it to the light and notice the golden brown colour, imparted by our virgin oak casks. Even the wood we use for maturing the spirit is an intrinsic part of producing this beautifully balanced Organic Single Malt Whisky—a world-first when it was launched. With that in mind, enjoy the sumptuous  AROMA WITHOUT WATER . It's delightfully sweet and malty at first, and after a few inhalations you may detect vanilla, toffee and banana influences coming through. Enjoy the  TASTE WITHOUT WATER  roll it...
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Benromach Distillery - Triple Distilled ABV 50% 2009 Vintage MATURATION : Matured in first-fill bourbon barrels. Pour yourself a dram and regard the luminous pale golden colour, created by passing this gorgeous Single Malt Whisky through our copper pot stills no less than three times during distillation. Enjoy the mellow  AROMA WITHOUT WATER , after a few inhalations you may detect strawberry, elderflower and sweet vanilla mingling with orange citrus. Enjoy the  TASTE WITHOUT WATER , roll it around your mouth and  savour  the creamy malt,  touch  of white pepper and hints of zingy lime zest, sweet vanilla and...
Bernheim 7 Year Old Original Kentucky Straight Wheat Whiskey 750mL -13%
In stock
Weight: 1.500 kg
This Heaven Hill Distillery original is named for the famed Bernheim Distillery here in Louisville. 7-Year-Old Wheat Whiskey, Bernheim Original is the first new style of American Whiskey to be introduced since Prohibition. Aged for 7 years in our traditional open rickhouses, Bernheim’s mellow taste is refreshingly smooth when served straight or in cocktails. Tasting Notes: Colour: Bright amber. Aroma: Mildly sweet; hints of vanilla and honey. Taste: Hints of toffee, berries and spice. Finish: Toasted oak; elegant and warm. " I'd take this over Old Weller Antique or Weller 12yr on just about any day,...
$10649 $12246
Bernheim 7 Year Old Original Kentucky Straight Wheat Whiskey 750mL -13%
In stock
Weight: 1.500 kg
This Heaven Hill Distillery original is named for the famed Bernheim Distillery here in Louisville. 7-Year-Old Wheat Whiskey, Bernheim Original is the first new style of American Whiskey to be introduced since Prohibition. Aged for 7 years in our traditional open rickhouses, Bernheim’s mellow taste is refreshingly smooth when served straight or in cocktails. Tasting Notes: Colour: Bright amber. Aroma: Mildly sweet; hints of vanilla and honey. Taste: Hints of toffee, berries and spice. Finish: Toasted oak; elegant and warm. " I'd take this over Old Weller Antique or Weller 12yr on just about any day,...
In stock
700mL @ 44.2% abv Sherry casks are considered a luxury in Whisky making. These expensive barrels imbue a spirit with distinctive notes of deep fruit, citrus and nuts. This Classic Sherry Cask Malt is blended from the best Sherry butts to deliver a balanced expression of this uniquely engaging style. Appearance: Enticingly dark Bouquet: Sherry prominence with secondary resinous and prune like notes. Invitingly seductive. Palate: Well balanced fruit on a Sherry bed. Wonderfully satisfying and fulfilling. Finish: Long, lingering Sherry delight
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Douglas Laing's Big Peat is a Blended (as we have to call them now) Islay malt containing spirit from Ardbeg, Caol Ila, Bowmore and, shockingly, Port Ellen. Not as full-on as the name might suggest, but with pedigree like that at this price Big Peat is a nailed-on winner. Picked up the top prize in its category at the World Whisky Awards 2010.
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Big Smoke - as the name suggests - is a combination of different Islay Malts from the smokiest distilleries on the island. The Big Smoke Islay Blended Malt Scotch Whiskey comes from Duncan Taylor and is not colored or chillfiltered.