Good day, mates.
As a lot as we prefer to fake we’re infallible, generally actuality will get in the way in which of our grand delusions. As you might have seen, there was a wee hiccup in our final mailout; an unlucky case of copy/paste gone flawed. Right here in our little store, we consider in doing issues massive. Apparently, that additionally contains our errors. Please consider…we’re all shades of purple proper now.
If you happen to’re unaware of what we’re speaking about…nothing to see right here, of us, transfer alongside. If you happen to caught our gaff and reached out to ensure we have been capable of deal with it immediately…thanks. We respect a few thousand additional units of eyes proofing our ramblings (and apparently want it). Due to all of you, we have been capable of sq. issues away fairly shortly (albeit sheepishly).
Relaxation assured, we attempt to gather solely the naked bones of private info from our clientele, which is at all times dealt with with the utmost confidentiality and safety. The slip-up was a handbook one on our half and had nothing to do with any type of process or system subject. It gained’t occur once more. Cross our hearts.
So, with out additional ado…what follows is a barely tidied-up model of our earlier mailout, replete with honest apologies, humbled hearts, and a promise to do higher. On behalf of Group KWM, a further apology for a number of emails clogging your inboxes and…a bit an excessive amount of info. 😉
Thanks to your understanding.
Curt Robinson
Greetings from the opposite aspect of the Atlantic!
I used to be within the UK and Eire within the weeks earlier than the Covid-19 pandemic was declared, returning house simply 5 days earlier than Canada started imposing obligatory journey quarantines. I keep in mind it feeling a little bit surreal, with nobody actually fairly positive what to do. About midway by my journey, hand sanitizer began popping up in all places. They have been extra harmless occasions.
Issues appear comparatively regular in England and Scotland; the airports are buzzing and vacationers are again. I’ve been fortunate to spend so much of time in Scotland throughout my practically 18 years within the whisky enterprise, and it feels a little bit like a second house to me. The enterprise has modified although, and little of the particular enterprise is completed at distilleries anymore, therefore the previous couple of days I’ve spent in London. Regardless it was nice to be again, connecting in particular person with previous and new mates for the primary time in nearly precisely 2 years and three months!
Now I’m off to reconnect with some mates in France and Spain…
Talking of issues returning to relative normalcy after greater than 2 years, our staff actually loved welcoming clients again in-store for in-person occasions during the last 4 weeks. In that point we held three 30th Anniversary Festivals, a spontaneous drop-in tasting, a Scotch Malt Whisky Society outturn tasting, and two Ardbeg Day masterclasses. Now we have a load of different in-store tastings scheduled all through the month of June, lots of which nonetheless have some areas open.
Staying on the Ardbeg theme, I’m positive quite a lot of of you’re curious in regards to the new Ardcore launch, and the way you may have the ability to put your palms on one. As with all issues Ardbeg, provide and demand are usually not precisely in sync as of late. Accordingly, we’re making it obtainable for buy by poll. The Ardcore shouldn’t be the one whisky obtainable by poll on this Malt Messenger, neither is it the one Ardbeg… We can even be drawing names for an opportunity to buy Ardbeg Fermutation, Gordon & MacPhail Speymalt Macallan 2000 Cask 1763, in addition to a few very restricted version Arran Uncommon Batch whiskies.
Essentially the most thrilling information on this Malt Messenger, although, is undoubtedly the arrival of not 1, or 2, however 3 new KWM unique casks. Within the final two weeks our 2nd unique cask of Tomatin (15 Yr), our 4th Benromach (18 Yr) and one other thirtieth Anniversary Cognac, the Vallein Tercinier 30 Yr have all arrived. Extra particulars are under.
We even have new and returned releases from the Scotch Malt Whisky Society, Arran, and Glenfarclas. Tons to sink your tooth into on this version of the Malt Messenger, so take your time and skim by it rigorously earlier than giving in to temptation.
For these of you within the behavior of emailing me requests, provided that I’m away, please submit your order on-line. To keep away from confusion and double billing, I can’t be forwarding buyer requests to the shop. And please don’t ask me to incorporate you within the poll(s)… the method is quick and straightforward. Additionally, asking me to incorporate you in one of many ballots tells me that you just haven’t learn the publication!
As at all times, within the occasion of a discrepancy in worth, the purpose of sale at KWM might be taken as right.
Sincerely,
Andrew Ferguson
Kensington Wine Market
In This Version
1. Introducing Our New Tomatin 2006 KWM Cask 33306
2. Introducing Our New Benromach KWM Cask
3. Introducing Our thirtieth Anniversary
4. In regards to the Ballots – Learn This First…
5. Accessible by Poll – G&M Speymalt Macallan
6. Accessible by Poll – Ardbeg Ardcore & Fermutation
7. Accessible by Poll – Springbank 10 & 15 Yr
8. Accessible by Poll – Arran Uncommon Batch Releases
9. Coming Quickly: The Kinship Assortment 2021
10. Elixir Distiller Whiskies Again In-Inventory
11. New & Returned Vallein Tercinier Cognacs
12. Glenfarclas Summer season 2021 Household Casks Arriving Quickly
13. Evan’s Scotch Malt Whisky Society Nook
14. Lagavulin 16 Yr Is Again… However Not for Lengthy!
15. Upcoming Tastings
INTORUCING: OUR NEW
TOMATIN 2006 KWM CASK 33306
Our second KWM unique single cask of Tomatin was distilled in 2006, matured in a French Oak Hogshead (Cask 33306) and bottled after 15 years, 10 months and 10 days at 57.3%. Solely 288 bottles, solely obtainable from your pals proper right here at KWM!
One different notice, the worth… resulting from inflation, logistics and whiskyflation (I’m taking credit score for that phrase), you gained’t seemingly be seeing too many 15-year-old KWM casks at this worth shifting ahead. Issues are getting loopy!
Tomatin 2006 KWM Cask 33306 – 57.3% – 15 Yr- French Oak Hogshead – My Tasting Notice: “Nostril: cigar tobacco, plush leather-based sofas and previous Armagnac in an enormous brandy snifter; candied nuts, darkish chocolate and decadent spices; strawberries dipped in chocolate, Turkish Delight, and Jujubes; Australian licorice, sweet apple, and poached pear. Palate: massive, wealthy and beautiful… wow… the place to start out; it hits with a lush buttery mouthfeel, heat however not sharp or tough; very decadent and toasty with treacle sauce, Demerara sugars, and extra candied nuts; decadent spices: cinnamon hearts, candied ginger and fennel seed; strawberries dusted in granular sugar, combined berry compote and baked white fruits; most Aussy licorice, darkish chocolate, tobacco, leather-based and Armagnac are right here too. End: decadent, warming and fruity with a great deal of spice; silky and buttery with gently toasted oak; medium-long, balanced and complicated. Remark: you’ll suppose this was sherried in case you didn’t know any higher…; that it’s French oak makes plenty of sense, it’s so decadent and spicy; however was it wine seasoned? Shaved, toasted and re-charred? reality is we don’t know… however what we do is that it’s beautiful!” – $155
INTRODUCING: OUR NEW
BENROMACH 2003 KWM CASK 49
Our 4th KWM unique single cask of Benromach has simply arrived, and it’s a stellar 18-year-old single malt! Distilled January 27, 2003, and bottled April 10, 2021, at 57.2%. Solely 168 whole bottles from a First FIll ex-Bourbon Barrel!
Benromach 2003 KWM Bourbon Cask #49 – 57.2% – Andrew’s Tasting Notice: “Nostril: toasted almonds, peanut brittle and buttercream icing; burnt orange peel, baker’s chocolate and dried apricots; Midori melon and canteloupe liqueur; constructing ashy smoke and muddy peat. Palate: spherical, fruity, buttery, and decadent; clear wooden smoke surges over the palate leaving a lashing of ash, inexperienced grasses, and muddy peat; very creamy with a lush mouthcoating physique and extra buttercream; fleshy orchard and citrus fruits: extra melons, orange peel and apricot; it verges on the tropical if you’re affected person sufficient to let it open up; toasted oak spices and marzipan to spherical issues out. End: lengthy, warming, and smoky, with a lush pillowy physique; it stays, creamy, fruity and decadent. Remark: this will not be Islay malt, however it’s in that class, and way more closely peated than the usual Benromach vary; the peat is held in verify by creamy decadent oak tones and the luxurious fruity Benromach spirit; she’s a magnificence… however beware in case your not a fan of peat!” – $200+gst
ABOUT THE BALLOTS IN THIS MALT MESSENGER PLEASE READ BEFORE ENTERING ANY!!!
Now we have 7 whiskies obtainable for buy by poll on this Malt Messenger. Earlier than letting whisky FOMO get the most effective of you, please learn this part so we’re all on the identical web page, and I gained’t should get cross with you.
Firstly, please notice the ballots for all 7 whiskies are on the identical kind linked under. I ask you to kindly observe the next guidelines, or threat my wrath:
· You should enter your info within the poll hyperlink. No telephone, electronic mail or net orders for these bottles might be taken.
· There are usually not many bottles of most of those whiskies, so set your expectations accordingly!
· In case your title is drawn for a bottle(s) you’ll be contacted inside 1 week of the poll closing. Please don’t name or electronic mail asking in case you have been chosen for one thing, please be affected person.
· In case your title shouldn’t be drawn for any bottles, you’ll be knowledgeable roughly 1 week after the poll closes.
· Please don’t enter any ballots for whiskies you have got already managed to amass elsewhere. Such behaviour is each grasping and egocentric.
· Please don’t enter ballots for any bottles you don’t truly intend to buy; we’re not capable of consider buyer preferences.
· Please submit just one entry, a number of entries might be discarded; we are going to go together with the primary one submitted, even when you’ve got modified your thoughts.
· Please don’t submit poll entries on behalf of different folks; if we discover out you probably did so to extend your odds you might be added to our buyer blacklist.
· Lastly, please don’t electronic mail or name me or anybody else on the retailer asking to incorporate you within the poll, that tells me you didn’t learn the e-mail, and I could not even reply must you ship such a request… You want to take action your self, and it solely takes a few minutes!
Particulars on all the whiskies within the poll may be discovered within the following sections, and there’s a hyperlink to the poll on every of the included merchandise. However if you wish to bounce straight to the poll, please click on the hyperlink under!
AVAILABLE BY BALLOT G&M SPEYMALT MACALLAN 2000 CASK
We have been fortunate to obtain an allocation of this just a few weeks again and featured it at a free impromptu drop-in tasting on the store. We doled out half of our allocation of the Speymalt 2000 Cask 1763 that night time by poll to individuals who made the trouble to return right down to the store. As promised, we’re making the rest of our allocation obtainable by poll by the Malt Messenger.
Speymalt Macallan 2000 Cask 1763 – 55.5% – Sherry –Producer Tasting Notice: “Nostril: Fruitcake aromas with brown sugar and orange zest. Style: The palate has raspberry and dried cherry with hints of earth and cocoa powder. End: An extended and full end of marzipan and spice. ” – $365+gst – Accessible Solely by Poll
AVAILABLE BY BALLOT
ARDBEG ARDCORE & FERMUTATIONS
Earlier than you get too excited right here, let’s set some expectations: we’ve got solely obtained a few dozen bottles of Ardbeg Fermutation. 5,000+ folks will get this article, and effectively…greater than half will truly open it. And whereas not all will truly enter the poll, we expect many occasions the variety of entries as precise bottles, so do the maths. Ardbeg Ardcore is marginally higher, however not a lot!
Please don’t enter the respective poll when you’ve got already acquired a bottle elsewhere. Don’t be a dick, we ask you to kindly let another person get pleasure from one. The Fermutation poll is simply open to members of the Ardbeg Committee, however in case you aren’t a Committee Member it solely takes a second to hitch. Notice: we’ve got no manner of verifying, we’re engaged on the honour system, so don’t fear about supplying us along with your quantity.
Fermutation Producer Description
“In November 2007, when a damaged boiler threatened six washbacks full of valuable liquid, Dr Invoice (Ardbeg’s Director of Distilling and Whisky Creation) sensed a possibility. He shortly instructed the Distillery people to throw open the washback lids and expose the liquid to the air. Tiny beings descended from the sky and landed within the spirit… The ‘Fermutation’ course of had begun. An epic 3 week-long fermentation – the longest in Ardbeg’s historical past – finally gave rise to this wild, zingy and vibrant spirit. In a dram that tastes like pure science fiction, peat and smoke meld fantastically with contemporary, floral flavours, whereas sharp, extra malty notes give Fermutation a uniquely Ardbeggian profile.”
Ardbeg Fermutation – 49.4% – 13 Yr – Producer Tasting Notice: “Nostril: Contemporary, floral, natural & tart. Hints of combined herbs and cedar wooden. Very zesty, vibrant, hints of smoked orange & grapefruit, plenty of menthol & peppermint. With water, highly effective bursts of diesel oil, tar, contemporary paint and aniseed. As this dies down, a reminiscence of freshly lower hay, a contact of silage and the tiniest trace of one thing savoury, like yeast extract or bread dough. Style: A energetic, vibrant, sharp, ‘zingy’ texture, main into very agency, distinctive flavours – malty/biscuit tones, highly effective aniseed, cardamon, antiseptic lozenge, candy mint toffee and cigar ash. End: Lastly, a lingering, salty, agency aftertaste of mint, tar, oak tannin & leather-based.” – $310+gst – Accessible Solely by Poll
Ardbeg Ardcore – 46% – Created with closely roasted black malt. – Producer Tasting Notice: “Nostril: Contemporary, floral, natural & tart. Hints of combined herbs and cedar wooden. Very zesty, vibrant, hints of smoked orange & grapefruit, plenty of menthol & peppermint. With water, highly effective bursts of diesel oil, tar, contemporary paint and aniseed. As this dies down, a reminiscence of freshly lower hay, a contact of silage and the tiniest trace of one thing savoury, like yeast extract or bread dough. Style: A energetic, vibrant, sharp, ‘zingy’ texture, main into very agency, distinctive flavours – malty/biscuit tones, highly effective aniseed, cardamon, antiseptic lozenge, candy mint toffee and cigar ash. End: Lastly, a lingering, salty, agency aftertaste of mint, tar, oak tannin & leather-based.” – $165+gst – Accessible Solely by Poll
AVAILABLE BY BALLOTSPRINGBANK 10 & 15 YEAR |
| It might appear odd that after once more we’ve got to attract names to buy Springbank core vary whiskies, however full disclosure, we’re receiving only a dozen of 1, and half that of the opposite. We even have a small quantity of the Hazelburn 10 Yr, however we gained’t be drawing names for that. It’s restricted to 1 per particular person although! Offered Out!
· Hazelburn 10 Yr – 46% – 100% Bourbon Matured – Producer Tasting Notice: “Nostril: An preliminary temptation of manuka honeycomb, vanilla and fudge soften away to disclose stewed pears, baked apples, crumble topping and nougat. Palate: The triple distillation ensures it is a easy and chic dram, with the bourbon maturation offering wealthy vanilla and milk chocolate flavours alongside refreshing honey and zest notes. End: A refined milk chocolate and creamy end which gently fades away, permitting sufficient time to refill your glass and repeat.” – $92+gst – 1 Per Buyer! SOLD OUT! Beneath bottles can be found ONLY by poll: 1. Springbank 10 Yr – 46% – 60% Bourbon, 40% Sherry – Producer Tasting Notice: “Nostril: A delicate Kintyre coastal breeze, redolent with damp peat, identifies this as considered one of Campbeltown’s best. Contemporary orchard fruit, orange zest, heather and honey mix with malt and vanilla notes to supply a heat welcome to Springbank’s flagship malt. Palate: Equal measures of complexity and robustness with an oily mouthfeel and loads of spice, pepper, nutmeg and cinnamon. The orchard fruit and malt notes from the nostril proceed, offering steadiness and character. End: Candy salted caramel, toffee and drying peat delay to spherical off this signature malt.” – $105+gst – Accessible by Poll! 2. Springbank 15 Yr – 46% – 100% Sherry Matured – Producer Tasting Notice: “Nostril: Springbank’s light large. This dram is massive and daring with notes of cured meat, barbecued beef jerky, clove, mint, iodine, oxo dice and tinned prunes all evident from the Oloroso cask maturation, whereas lobster creels trace at Springbank’s attribute maritime affect. Palate: The peaty character is now evident with sooty kiln smoke and tobacco leaves outstanding on this viscous tipple alongside prunes, walnuts, figs, Demerara sugar, cocoa powder and smoked meats. End: The end grows and develops with notes of soot, leather-based and walnuts outstanding earlier than easing off just like the ebbing tide over considered one of Kintyre’s pebble seashores.” – $140+gst – Accessible by Poll! |
AVAILABLE BY BALLOT
ARRAN RARE BATCH RELEASES
After releasing God-only-knows what number of bespoke KWM casks of Arran over time, I feel we lastly should admit that we’ve created a little bit of a monster: our clientele is completely rabid for Arran, and rightfully so. We simply talked about new releases from Ardbeg and Springbank (see above), but when there’s one different model whose title instantly lights up whisky chasers, it’s undoubtedly Arran. We at KWM maintain our palms out for any particular releases the distillery can provide however sadly can solely scratch the floor of the demand in our native market. Some would argue that’s an amazing drawback to have, however with regards to ensuring we unfold the love, ballots have turn out to be the one truthful method to do it. In actual fact…even the distillery solely had a handful of bottles to supply of their store and refused net/telephone orders. So, with out additional ado, two particular releases from Arran’s new ‘Uncommon Batch’ vary to set the FOMO ragin’.
1. Arran Uncommon Batch French Oak Argonne 15 Yr – 53.5% – The French Oak casks used to mature this malt got here from the Argonne Forest within the northeast of France. Solely 3060 bottles. Producer Tasting Notice: “Nostril: A heat spring day within the backyard. Mild cedar oak and a contact of sandalwood and incense with a candy distinction of freshly squeezed white grapes, candy pink girl apple and orange blossom. Palate: A glowing, oily texture enhanced and complemented by the upper alcohol quantity. It’s picnic time with trays of honeyed fruits, candy vanilla and orange cake with a contact of nutmeg, heat brioche buns and mango puree. End: Heat spices, oak tannins and mandarin liqueur. $230+gst – Accessible by Poll!
2. Arran Uncommon Batch French Oak Bordeaux 15 Yr – 52.8% – Totally matured in ex-Bordeaux casks from the Médoc area. Solely 2580 bottles. – Producer Tasting Notice: “Nostril: At first whiff there are ripe darkish berries with freshly rolled cigars. The light tobacco aroma is embraced by the sweetness of vinous sultanas and cassis. Palate: Afternoon tea with chocolate raspberry truffles, candied ginger, scones with clotted cream and orange marmalade and almond & cinnamon croissants. Silky and luscious tannins are a reminder of the elegant wine as soon as contained in these casks. End: Mouth-watering at first then getting a contact drier with plum jam and delicate spices. $230+gst – Accessible by Poll!
ARRAN WHISKIES BACK IN STOCK!
Arran, like loads of different distilleries, is getting an increasing number of scarce. After all, it doesn’t assist that the whisky remains to be glorious, and excellent worth!
1. Arran Quarter Cask The Bothy – 56.2% – First Fill Bourbon Completed in Quarter Casks – Producer Tasting Notice: “Nostril: Apple tart, pineapple brioche. Palate: The citrus hallmarks of Arran welcome you, and the candy spice of cinnamon and vanilla guarantees a memorable dram. End: Sweetness, Honey, Pineapple, Vanilla, Coconut.” – $80
2. Arran Sherry Cask The Bodega – 55% – Sherry Hogsheads – Producer Tasting Notice: “Nostril: Toffee, candy spice and fruit. Palate: Ripe fig and cherries. End: Darkish chocolate, Mandarins, Ripe figs.” – $88
3. Arran 18 Yr – 46% – Predominantly 1st & 2nd Fill Sherry – Producer Tasting Notice: “Nostril: Orchard fruits with syrup and toasted oak. Palate: Caramelised orange, darkish chocolate, baked peaches. End: Sweetness, Spice, Citrus, Baked peaches.” – $148+gst – Restrict 1 Per Buyer!
4. Arran 21 Yr – 46% – Matured in ex-Sherry Casks – Producer Tasting Notice: “Nostril: Candy spices and hazelnut. Palate: Ginger and darkish chocolate. End: Sweetness, Spice, Bitter orange, Citrus, Darkish chocolate, Satisfying.” – $215 – Restrict 1 Per Buyer!
ELIXIR DISTILLERS WHISKIES BACK IN STOCK!
An Islay malt by one other title does scent simply as peaty… We are able to’t ensure of the origin of among the whiskies under, however can slightly confidently guess.
1. Islay Violets 33 Yr – 46.2% – Matured in American Oak, Completed in Cognac Casks – Tasting Notice by Billy Abbott, The Whisky Change: “Nostril: Waxy with the anticipated violet notes, each floral petals and inexperienced leaves. Candy barley sugar and parma violet notes develop, with chamois leather-based, candied lemon and lavender syrup to comply with. Zestiness builds, with singed orange peel becoming a member of the lemon, together with burning rosemary twigs. Palate: The basic floral notes lead on the palate, with lavender and candy violet joined by Love Coronary heart sweet, sultanas and a touch of mint. Waxy petal notes develop, together with vanilla toffee, mushy spice and a contact of damp earth hiding on the again. End: A remaining burst of violet fades to go away candied lemon, inexperienced grass and toffee. Remark: A famously divisive type of Bowmore, and an instance which may flip extra folks to the distillery’s floral aspect. If you happen to’re on the fence, that is the dram to show you, with glorious floral and citrus steadiness, and a delicate undertone of smokiness. It tastes precisely the way you’d count on from studying the label…” – $610+gst
2. Port Askaig 25 Yr – 45.8% – Whisky Enjoyable Tasting Notice: “It’s not precisely this label, which used to say ‘Port Askaig Harbour’, the brand new one for America slightly has ‘Port Askaig Islay’. Let’s strive the latter… Color: white wine. Nostril: it’s not enormous, and slightly on charcoal and graphite, with some delicate coastal notes, seaside herbs, wool, previous jacket, sea breeze, a pleasant wee oyster, and whiffs of freshly shredded celeriac and cabbage. Delicate, elegant, delicate, it’s like trying in a mirror (a little bit drained, S.?) Mouth (neat): naturally. Sauvignon, lemon juice, charcoal ash, oysters, tincture of iodine, then extra shredded celeriac in addition to a little bit angelica, and maybe one drop of yellow chartreuse (per glass). End: medium, with this trademark feeling of peated lemons, inexperienced apples, then tobacco ashes. Feedback: simply extraordinarily good, with this faint lightness that’s so participating on this well-known – and supposedly lighter – make. – 90 factors, Serge.” – $420+gst
3. Port Askaig 28 Yr – 45.8% – Refill American Oak Hogsheads – Seemingly Laphroaig – My Tasting Notice: “Nostril: dried apricots, candied lemon and melons; crème brule, creamed honey and Earl Gray tea ice cream; candied salmon and seared scallops with a balsamic discount; surprisingly malty with clear smoke. Palate: thick, coating and creamy; a great deal of vanilla, extra creamed honey and velvety oak; tarry with mushy earthy peat and clear peat smoke; slightly spicy, fennel and clove; nonetheless fruit, extra apricots, lemon and melon but in addition a contact of tropical fruits; nonetheless seafood-y. End: lengthy, coating, creamy and really fruity; tarry with extra mushy peat smoke and briny seafood-y tones. Remark: beautiful previous stuff; I completely love the way in which that brash younger peated whiskies mellow over time within the cask, creating in mushy, spherical, fruity and chic whiskies.” – $500+gst
4. Port Askaig 45 Yr – 40.8% – 5 Sherry Butts – My Tasting Notice: “Nostril: old fashioned antique-y sherry notes, barrel-aged maple syrup, treacle sauce and luggage of tropical fruits; waxy with over-ripe bananas, mangoes and papaya and agave nectar; sweet apple with mushy previous leather-based and tobacco; assorted Jelly Bellies and Starburst fruit candies. Palate: nonetheless old-school; very wealthy, sherried and fruity however balanced and chic; extra maple syrup, cola cubes and treacle sauce; the Starburst fruit candies and diverse Jelly Bellies are nonetheless there as are the waxy over-ripe tropical fruits: mango and papaya, grilled pineapple, and flambeed banana; darkish milk chocolate, delicate spices and light-weight roast espresso beans; chilly tea dregs with Demerara sugars it turns into more and more spicy, however nonetheless balanced. End: lengthy and fruity, the whisky stays decadent and gently spiced because it slowly fades; coating with extra chilly tea dregs; a contact of minty mojitos too. Remark: it is a stunning previous malt, very a lot within the antique-y type; old fashioned and really fruity sherry with out struggling any of the ravages of time; is there a faint hint of smoke, I’d want an much more beneficiant serving to make sure!” – $3000+gst
COMING SOON: THE KINSHI
P COLLECTION 2021
Solely 3 units of the Kinship Assortment 2021 are coming to KWM, and you recognize we’re going to crack a set for a tasting… if for no different purpose than as a result of I wish to strive all of the whiskies! But in addition as a result of cool whiskies like this ought to be shared, and the final tasting was highly regarded. Particulars on that to comply with!
Within the meantime, we’ve got two units of the Kinship Assortment 2021 obtainable on the market, 175 years price of liquid historical past, $9200+gst. The whiskies are usually not obtainable as singles.
Kinship 2021 Bunnahabhain 31 Yr – 46.9% – Producer Tasting Notice: “A candy mellow nostril of custard drizzled over spiced fruit cake. Oily and mouthwarming, the candy spicy notes come by in drive together with the faintest trace of cocoa. Lengthy and lingering on the end; a heat embrace of Islay appeal.”
Kinship 2021 Caol Ila 40 Yr – 51.8% – Producer Tasting Notice: “Splendidly candy floral notes on the nostril, wrapped up within the heat sea breeze that Islay has in abundance. Mellow and silky easy within the mouth with apples, honeydew melon and Seville orange, slowly giving method to a protracted satisfying end with only a trace of seaweed. A showcase of the standard of this distillery’s spirit, which impresses at any age.”
Kinship Bruichladdich 29 Yr – 45.4% – Producer Tasting Notice: “A pleasant whisky combining mushy fruits, honey and a touch of iodine with sea salt. Splendidly balanced within the mouth with all flavours appearing as one, seguing from candy to fruity then leaving a barely dry sea salt end. A stunning instance of this large of the Rhinns!”
Kinship 2021 Bowmore 33 Yr – 51.2% – Producer Tasting Notice: “The fragile peatiness of this whisky melts into candy floral notes on the nostril making this remarkably well-rounded. Refined on the palate with candy vanilla fruitiness, white pepper, and eventually a peaty factor. A very particular whisky – price of its Bowmore title!”
Kinship 2021 Ardbeg 19 Yr – 47.8% – Producer Tasting Notice: “This well-aged Ardbeg is wealthy and intense on the nostril, initially candy earlier than the peaty sea salt character takes over. Elegant notes of vanilla fudge and almonds on the palate mixing with the saltiness of the Islay peatbog. The size of the end provides loads of time to ponder this south-coast charmer.”
Kinship 2021 Laphroaig 23 Yr – 50.3% – Producer Tasting Notice: “A whisky filled with character, strong-bodied with vanilla sponge cake, toffee, aniseed and Islay sea breeze on the nostril. On the palate, this Laphroaig is surprisingly delicate with vanilla sweetness complementing a fantastically nutty factor, together with typical Islay peat smoke, iodine and leather-based which linger into the end. An ideal hearth companion.”
GLENFARCLAS SUMMER 2021 FAMILY CASKS ARRIVING SOON!
The Summer season 2021 Batch of Glenfarclas Household Casks is arriving shortly, and we purchased a very good chunk of them. The explanations for this are twofold. Firstly, regardless that the distillery’s reserves of mature inventory seem sturdy and are nonetheless the envy of the business, the reserves within the red-doored warehouses at Glenfarclas Distillery are usually not bottomless. So costs may be anticipated to rise as inventories shrink.
Secondly, we’re seeing fewer and fewer whiskies aged over 18 or 20 years of age, even from unbiased bottlers, and the costs are solely going in a single route. Even on this atmosphere, Glenfarclas continues to supply an unimaginable worth proposition. The evaluations look fairly good, and it may be anticipated that we’ll be placing on a tasting or two with a few of these whiskies!
If you happen to’ve already positioned an order for a number of of those from our final provide, no want to take action once more!
1. Glenfarclas Household Cask 1989 S21 – 51.9% – Matured in Sherry Butt #13007 for roughly 32 years. 90.3pts Whiskybase. – $1190+gst
2. Glenfarclas Household Cask 1990 S21 – 58.9% – Matured in Sherry Butt #9256 for roughly 31 years. 91.6pts Whiskybase. – $1155+gst
3. Glenfarclas Household Cask 1991 S21 – 55.3% – Matured in Sherry Butt #5676 for roughly 30 years. 91.3pts Whiskybase. – $1121+gst
4. Glenfarclas Household Cask 1992 S21 – 56.5% – Matured in Sherry Butt #872 for roughly 29 years. 89.5pts Whiskybase. – $721+gst
5. Glenfarclas Household Cask 1993 S21 – 57.6% – Matured in 4th Fill Butt #4669 for roughly 24 years. 81.4pts Whiskybase. – $652+gst
6. Glenfarclas Household Cask 1994 S21 – 54.3% – Matured in Refill Sherry Butt #1583 for roughly 27 years. 89.4pts Whiskybase. – $623+gst
7. Glenfarclas Household Cask 1996 S21 – 52.3% – Matured in Sherry Butt #1070 for roughly 25 years. 89.7pts Whiskybase. – $568+gst
8. Glenfarclas Household Cask 1997 S21 – 58.9% – Matured in 4th Fill Sherry Butt #5964 for roughly 24 years. 87.4pts Whiskybase. – $541+gst
9. Glenfarclas Household Cask 1998 S21 – 58.2% – Matured in Sherry Butt #2937 for roughly 23 years. 87.4pts Whiskybase. – $520+gst
10. Glenfarclas Household Cask 1999 S21 – 58.2% – Matured in Refill Sherry Butt #1202 for roughly 22 years. 87.0pts Whiskybase. – $500+gst
11. Glenfarclas Household Cask 2000 S21 – 57.9% – Matured in Refill Butt #3387 for roughly 21 years. 89.0pts Whiskybase. – $475+gst
12. Glenfarclas Household Cask 2001 S21 – 58.8% – Matured in Sherry Butt #3932 for roughly 20 years. 89.1pts Whiskybase. – $454+gst
13. Glenfarclas Household Cask 2002 S21 – 55.4% – Matured in Refill Port Pipe #3335 for roughly 19 years. 86.4pts Whiskybase. – $444+gst
14. Glenfarclas Household Cask 2003 S21 – 58.1% – Matured in 4th Fill Butt #1964 for roughly 18 years. 85.7pts Whiskybase. – $434+gst
15. Glenfarclas Household Cask 2004 S21 – 59.2% – matured in Sherry Butt #2382 for roughly 17 years. 89.1pts Whiskybase. – $423+gst
16. Glenfarclas Household Cask 2005 S21 – 59.7% – Matured in Sherry Butt #2461 for roughly 16 years. 88.9pts Whiskybase. – $413+gst
17. Glenfarclas Household Cask 2006 S21 – 60.0% – matured in Sherry Butt #3424 for roughly 15 years. 86.3pts Whiskybase. – $403+gst
– 42% – Distilled within the coronary heart of the Nice Despair, within the years main as much as World Struggle 2. It goes with out saying that this 80-year-old is a bit of liquid historical past. 93pts from WhiskyFun. – $1400+gst
EVAN’S SCOTCH MALT WHISKY SOCIETY CORNER
One of many sudden unwanted effects of the previous two pandemic years has been how this era has severely impacted the quantity of house on our whisky wall devoted to our favorite inexperienced bottles. Up till early 2020, the cabinets within the above image have been crammed to bursting with SMWS bottles from Outturns passed by. Proper now it looks like we’re fortunate if greater than three of the seven bottles don’t promote out the month they’re launched. Who ought to we blame for this? I’m you, SMWS Members!
I’m (form of?) kidding. We are able to additionally level a finger at everyone’s present favorite financial time period: Provide Chain Points, which have brought about fewer bottles than ordinary to reach in a well timed method. Plus, I’m downright superb at promoting the bottles that we do get. My intense character and breathtaking charisma are second and third-best traits, proper behind my excessive humbleness. Simply ask my spouse.
The underside line? We presently have much less bottles on the shelf than we used to from the SMWS as a result of the bottles we get are promoting very effectively and never sticking round very lengthy. That being mentioned, there are nonetheless just a few single casks from current Outturns obtainable and really a lot price trying out. Learn under for just a few of my picks:
From June:
Gn3.16 – HIBISCUS TEA BY THE RED SEA
Citrus, citrus, and extra citrus. That’s the secret for this splendidly fragrant gin from Borders Distillery. You can create a highball with this with tonic, however I’d suggest being very sparing with the combination as this drinks amazingly neat. 9 elements gin to 1 half tonic sounds about proper by my estimation, however your mileage might range.
This Aultmore was the primary within the lineup for the June Outturn, and it confirmed extremely effectively regardless that it was positioned in what is usually known as “the loss of life spot” for any order. The primary whisky you style within the tasting is normally the primary one you overlook as you progress into greater and bolder flavours, however that was not the case with this one. The well-balanced fruit and floral notes alongside the softly candy and creamy palate made positive this one received a handful of mentions as one of many favourites for June.
5.91 – LIP-SMACKING AND SEDUCTIVELY LUSCIOUS
I’ve by no means been the world’s largest Auchentoshan fan, however this and some different current casks from the SMWS (reminiscent of 5.79 – PARIS IN THE SPRING) have actually impressed me. Twizzlers, cherries, candied ginger, cotton sweet and toasted almonds are the secret for me on this one, plus a unusual little bit of black pepper spice thrown in only for enjoyable.
From Could:
I’m shocked that this AnCnoc – I imply Knockdhu – has lasted previous the Could Outturn – I believed for sure it could have already offered out due to its reputation within the tasting in addition to its worth. To offer you an concept of how good that is: It exhibits like a barely younger model of the improbable AnCnoc 16-Yr-Previous 125th Anniversary bottling from a 12 months or two again however with a tad much less citrus and extra purple fruits.
59.67 – KOOKY, WACKY, FLAKY, FUNKY
I’ve to say, I’ve developed a mushy spot for Teaninich over the previous few years, and it’s just about all due to SMWS bottlings. One thing in regards to the mixture of fruit, grassiness and the marginally herbaceous/inexperienced/mild wooden notice that I sometimes discover on the end with this distillery makes me excited each time I see a 59 come up in an Outturn. This one was no exception, and likewise provides a contact extra waxiness into the combination.
Clynelish. I actually shouldn’t should say greater than that, proper? This has all the things you’ll count on from this distillery: the wax, the fruit, the waxy fruits, and so forth. It additionally exhibits stunning poise and maturity for one thing 8 years younger. It’s the bottle that you just evaluate your overly rambunctious kids to and surprise the place you went flawed in elevating them.
From April:
88.24 – WHEN FRUIT AND CREAM COLLIDE
Would you want some Waterproof coat’s Toffee with a touch of salt? Or maybe a chocolate ‘smore straight from the hearth? That is one candy and decadent Speyburn. It boasts loads of candy fruit plus pink elephant popcorn and even macadamia nuts and macaroons. Fairly the mixture!
135.33 – LIGHT-HEARTED MEMORIES
The mix of creamy fruit, malt, wax and sunscreen make this Inchmurrin-style Loch Lomond loads of enjoyable. Loch Lomond Distillery deserves any and all accolades it will get, and so does the SMWS for this single cask.
By no means earlier than featured in an Outturn:
65.7 – TIMELESS AND MAGNIFICENT
That is the oldest Imperial I’ve personally tasted. It’s improbable and hammers house the truth that we actually didn’t know what we had on this distillery till it was gone and demolished. I’d say pour a few of this out Imperial however contemplating the worth I personally wouldn’t wish to share it with the bottom…
In time, I’m positive we are going to get again to having an abundantly stocked wall of SMWS bottles, however for now, there are not less than just a few glorious bottles to ration out and hold us all sated!
Cheers,
Evan
LAGAVULIN 16 YEAR IS BACK
BUT NOT FOR LONG!
It’s been effectively over a 12 months since we have been final capable of carry Lagavulin 16 Yr Previous into the store. Not for lack of making an attempt, however logistics being what they’re…effectively…let’s simply say we actually sat at our desks counting down the minutes till it was launched to the market and scooped up what we may! For a few us old-school members of the KWM whisky staff, Lag 16 was one of many true icons that first made us understand simply how particular this spirit could possibly be.
Lagavulin 16 Yr – 46% abv – Tasting Notice by Serge Valentin, WhiskyFun: “Some good mates would declare that the 16 goes down however to be sincere, I’ve at all times heard that and final time I attempted it (it was a +/-2019) I loved it slightly loads. The very early ‘Traditional Malts’ have been slightly superior certainly in my guide (late Eighties, early Nineteen Nineties) however since these wonderful days, issues have remained comparatively constant. We’ll do that shortly. Color: gold. Nostril: impeccably tarry and rubbery, with this sense of unpacking a brand new scuba diving swimsuit (I’ve seen some would say a brand new SM outfit however I’m missing expertise). Then oranges and walnuts from the sherry, seawater, dried kelp, black olive brine, lapsang souchong and lit cigar. I discover this impeccable and really, guess what, ‘Lagavulin 16’. Mouth: completely glorious. Vibrant and wealthy, tarry, with glorious sherriness, liquorice, salt, olives, marmalade… It’s even received one thing refreshing. End: smoke and olives, touches of curry and cardamom. Good. Feedback: Lagavulin 16 is my go-to malt each time I’m at a restaurant or a bar that’s not a ‘whisky bar’. I feel I’ll preserve that custom. An beautiful batch, maybe rather less ‘candy’ than earlier current choices. BFYB. SGP:467 – 90 factors.” Adequate for us. – $138+gst
UPCOMING TASTINGS
Diving Into Bourbon
· Date: Thursday, June 16
· Time: 7PM
· Value: $40
· In Particular person Tasting!
Bourbon is the most well liked whiskey round, and summer season is the proper time to drink it! Be a part of Concord and Evan in a tasting that includes among the massive gamers within the Bourbon Market. Who is aware of – possibly they’ll throw a lesser-known gem or two into the combination as effectively! 7 PM, Thursday, June 16.
Oddball Distilleries – A+ Malts from the B Group
· Date: Tuesday, June 21
· Time: 7 PM
· Value: $75
· Choose-Up Date: Firday June 3!
Missed, underappreciated, and in some circumstances, flat-out unknown distilleries would be the focus of this tasting that includes among the most uncared for distilleries within the Scotch Whisky world. We needed to drag a few of these poor unloved drams out from the orphanages, the cabinets beneath the steps, and different assorted nooks and crannies, with a view to carry you a line-up that’s sure to attraction to probably the most discerning of whisky geeks. This has a really stellar vary, in case you can look previous the manufacturers and distilleries, to see some diamonds within the tough. 7 PM, Tuesday, June 20
To Peat or To not Peat!?
· Date: Tuesday,
· Time: PM
· Value: $60
· In Particular person Tasting!
The times of a distillery making just one type of whisky appear to be going the way in which of the Dodo. With the battle for our greenbacks, many distilleries in Scotland (and elsewhere) have determined to diversify. Making solely unpeated or solely peated whisky is so final century – why not make each? On this tasting, we are going to discover 4 totally different distilleries that just do that. If our math is right, that ought to imply that we’ll be tasting eight totally different whiskies! 7 PM, Thursday, June 23
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