The Singleton Glen Ord
The Singleton of Glen Ord is a distinguished single malt Scotch whisky that exemplifies the smooth, fruity character of the Singleton range. Meticulously crafted, it offers a unique and inviting tasting experience that captivates both whisky novices and connoisseurs alike.
Heritage and Craftsmanship:
Established in 1838, Glen Ord is one of Scotland's oldest and most revered distilleries. Nestled on the Black Isle peninsula, it draws its water from the pristine White Burn and uses locally grown barley from the fertile Moray Firth region. The distillery's motto, "Luceo non uro" (I shine, not burn), reflects its unwavering commitment to quality and tradition. The Singleton of Glen Ord undergoes a meticulous slow batch distillation process, maturing in a judicious combination of European oak ex-Sherry casks and American oak ex-Bourbon barrels. This careful maturation regime imparts a perfectly balanced, velvety smooth profile.
Tasting Notes:
Renowned for its rich, sensorial flavors, The Singleton of Glen Ord has been described as a "luscious nectar," "sublimely smooth," and a "fruity decadence." The gentle distillation and careful cask selection result in a whisky that is remarkably easy to drink and deeply pleasurable.
Core Expressions:
The Singleton of Glen Ord 12 Year Old: Smooth and fruity, with notes of honey, vanilla, and a hint of spice.
The Singleton of Glen Ord 15 Year Old: A delicate balance of green apple, pear, and subtle oak.
The Singleton of Glen Ord 18 Year Old: Rich flavors of dried fruit, dark chocolate, and a touch of smoke.
Mortlach
Mortlach, the "Beast of Dufftown," is a formidable single malt Scotch whisky celebrated for its robust and intense character. Known for its unique 2.81 distillation process, Mortlach offers a rich and powerful flavor profile that has captivated connoisseurs worldwide.
Heritage and Craftsmanship:
Officially founded in 1823 on the site of an older illicit distillery, Mortlach became the first legal distillery in Dufftown. The distillery's unique 2.81 distillation process, combined with traditional worm tub condensers, creates a thick, rich, and bold spirit character that is truly one-of-a-kind. The distillery's history is marked by the contributions of George Cowie and his son Alexander, who developed the intricate distillation process still used today. Mortlach's permanent collection includes three unique expressions, each offering a distinct and unforgettable taste experience.
Tasting Notes:
Mortlach whiskies are renowned for their rich, savory notes, often described as meaty and muscular. The complex palate features flavors of sherry, spice, and rich toffee, making it a favorite among connoisseurs who appreciate bold and robust drams.
Core Expressions:
Mortlach 12 Year Old ("The Wee Witchie"): Offers a robust flavor with notes of dried fruit, spice, and a hint of smoke.
Mortlach 16 Year Old ("Distiller's Dram"): Known for its rich and complex profile, with flavors of dark chocolate, sherry, and a touch of leather.
Mortlach 20 Year Old ("Cowie's Blue Seal"): Features deep, intense flavors of dried fruit, oak, and a long, savory finish.
Talisker
Talisker, crafted on the rugged Isle of Skye, is known for its maritime influences and smoky character. Each sip transports you to the wild shores of Skye, offering a taste of its coastal heritage.
Heritage and Craftsmanship:
Founded in 1830 by brothers Hugh and Kenneth MacAskill, Talisker is the oldest working distillery on the Isle of Skye. The distillery's unique location and traditional production methods, including the use of wooden worm tub condensers and distinctive wash stills, contribute to its intense character. Talisker's water is drawn directly from underground springs next to the distillery, and its whisky is known for its unusual ABV of 45.8%, setting it apart from other malts.
Tasting Notes:
Talisker whiskies are characterized by their peated, smoky flavor, with underlying notes of soft fruits and cereal. The older expressions also feature rich vanilla imparted by the aging process. The bold, peppery finish and touch of island smoke make Talisker a standout choice.
Core Expressions:
Talisker 10 Year Old: Known for its intense smoky flavor, with notes of pepper, citrus, and a hint of maritime salt. The whisky is bottled at 45.8% ABV, offering a robust and explosive taste experience.
Talisker 25 Year Old: A refined expression with excellent poise, featuring delicate citrus, woody notes, and a sophisticated maritime character. The whisky is bottled at 45.8% ABV, showcasing a balanced profile with honey, pineapple, and a touch of salinity.
Lagavulin
Lagavulin, a staple of Islay whiskies, is celebrated for its rich, peaty flavors. Each bottle offers a deep and intense taste experience that is beloved by whisky aficionados.
Heritage and Craftsmanship:
Lagavulin distillery, established in 1816, is located on the southern coast of Islay. The whisky is known for its long fermentation and slow distillation process, which contribute to its complex flavor. Lagavulin's production methods include the use of traditional copper pot stills and long aging in oak casks, which impart a distinctive character to the whisky.
Tasting Notes:
Lagavulin whiskies are characterized by their intense peat smoke, rich malt, and hints of dried fruit. The long, smoky finish is a hallmark of this iconic Islay whisky.
Core Expression:
Lagavulin 16 Year Old: Known for its deep, rich peat smoke, with flavors of dried fruit, dark chocolate, and a long, smoky finish. The whisky is bottled at 43% ABV and is adored by those who appreciate its bold and complex profile.
