November 2012

Suggestions For A Dramming Christmas

November 29, 2012
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It’s that time of year again. For anyone on the lookout for whisky-realated gifts here are a few recommendations that offer great value.

Will Bruichladdich Become The New Dalmore?

November 28, 2012

Yesterday I came across a news article in French about Rémy Cointreau’s plans for the newly acquired Bruichladdich distillery

Bunnahabhain 1989/2012 Berry Bros.

November 27, 2012

A dram that needs a little time and attention, but the patience is rewarded with delicate and lovely flavours. – Rating: 87/100

Benrinnes Batch 1 – That Boutique-y Whisky Company

November 26, 2012
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A rather typical Benrinnes with that meaty sherry character we also often find in Mortlach, but the fruity aromas are stronger here. – Rating: 86/100

Littlemill 1992/2012 Berry Bros.

November 25, 2012

The floral character and the light gin reminiscence are a bit unusual, but it is all well-balanced and very enjoyable. – Rating: 85/100

North of Scotland 1973/2012 Berry Bros.

November 24, 2012

This has a wonderful trademark aged grain nose, but on the palate the wood takes the lead a little too much. – Rating: 83/100

Whisky Alchemy – How To Turn Sherry Into Refill Bourbon

November 23, 2012

You may remember my issue with Batch 41 of Aberlour A’bunadh. Here is a little experiment I did with some of that whisky.

Aberlour Batch 1 – That Boutique-y Whisky Company

November 23, 2012
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A few drops of water open it up a bit, but this dram does not give away a great deal of flavours. It is all very subdued. – Rating: 78/100

Aultmore Batch 1 – That Boutique-y Whisky Company

November 22, 2012
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A nice combination of nutty and fruity flavours with quite some wood spice, powerful on the palate but light in body. – Rating: 84/100

Karuizawa Spirit of Asama

November 16, 2012
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A vatting of about 70 casks bottled at two different strengths. Rating: 48%: 86/100 – 55%: 88/100

Laphroaig PX Cask

November 14, 2012
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The (mild) PX sweetness makes this an interesting variation on the Quarter Cask. It is well worth a try although it shows a little less complexity. – Rating: 87/100

Diageo Buys United Spirits – Possible Consequences

November 12, 2012

On Friday, the long-negotiated deal between Diageo and United spirits has finally been finalized. Diageo pays £1.3 billion for a 53.4% stake in the company.

Benrinnes 14 yo 1998/2012 Master of Malt

November 11, 2012
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Excellent! This is a monumental dram and a real treat for all who like that meaty and richly sherried style. – Rating: 89/100

Hammerhead

November 7, 2012
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The nose is nice but the palate does not have much to offer, a light and unoffensive dram. – Rating: 76/100

A Closer Look At Whisky Inflation

November 5, 2012
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Lamenting about rising whisky prices has become a regular pastime. So I think it is time to have a closer look at how much prices have actually risen over the last years.

Caol Ila 19 yo The Whisky Exchange

November 4, 2012
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Dry and crisp, it feels younger than it actually is. This dram demonstrates how Caol Ila can be bold and elgegant at the same time. – Rating: 88/100

Coq au Whisky

November 3, 2012
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I does not need much imagination to notice that this recipe is inspired by the French Coq au Vin, a chicken braised in wine. Here we swap wine for whisky.

Pendleton Blended Canadian Whisky

November 2, 2012
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A rather sweet blend with very little fruity aromas, it is quite enjoyable but does not leave a lasting impression. – Rating: 78/100