Whisky Advocate (93)

Behold the exceptional 'Ichiro Blended Malt Double Distilleries Chichibu x Komagatake Bottled 2021 NV'. This coveted spirit manifests from the revered distilleries of Chichibu, a revered sanctum of modern Japanese whisky, and Komagatake, that boasts its idyllic location amidst the lush Japanese Alps. Precisely crafted by the whisky maestro Ichiro Akuto, this blend epitomises years of dedicated labour and profound expertise. Its double distillation engenders a distinctive character, merging the best of both terroirs. Matured uninterrupted since non-vintage until 2021, it exudes an exquisite aroma, underscored by a palette that is an unbroken harmony of sweetness, spice, and a touch of oak.

Inherent in each limited bottle of 'Ichiro Blended Malt Double Distilleries Chichibu x Komagatake Bottled 2021 NV' is a rite of Japanese excellence, and an ambrosial detonation of surprise, luring even the most discerning malt connoisseur. This malted marvel is an investment worth every penny in the pursuit of the exceptional.

The Karuizawa Single Malt Acclaim Collection NV is a connoisseur's dream, produced in Japan’s iconic Karuizawa distillery, nestled in the foothills of the active Mount Asama volcano. This distilled masterpiece offers a symphony of complex flavours, a product of its location's microclimate conditions and traditional production methods. Aged in sherry casks, this single malt whisky captures a nuanced depth of character. Its alluring aroma of dark chocolate and fruit with notes of spices invites a velvety texture on the palate, punctuated with hints of cinnamon, and caramel. This distillery, though no longer operational, continues to be celebrated for its meticulously crafted spirits. A true testament to its legacy, the Karuizawa Single Malt Acclaim Collection NV is a limited edition, reflecting its rarity and collectability. Experience the sublime balance of intensity and smoothness of this fine whisky, ensuring a memorable tasting experience for discerning connoisseurs.

Expertly crafted by the esteemed Kurayoshi Distillery, The Matsui Single Malt Mizunara Cask NV pioneers new horizons for spirits. Nestled in the lush Tottori Prefecture of Japan, this distillery upholds time-honoured tradition, meticulously fermenting the spirit in vats made from Japanese Mizunara oak. This specific oak lends unique flavours to the malt; notes of sandalwood, coconut, and a hint of spice are discernible on the palate. The Matsui Single Malt Mizunara Cask NV is made from locally sourced barley, delicately mashed and distilled to maintain the grain's natural aromatics.

Beautifully golden in colour, the spirit exudes the aroma of green apple and pear, with undertones of Mizunara oak. On the palate, it is sublime, offering a rounded, delicate profile complementing its fragrant bouquet. The intriguing finish lingers with tastes of sweet malt and oak. Each sip of Kurayoshi Distillery - The Matsui Single Malt Mizunara Cask NV is a testament to traditional Japanese craftsmanship.

Unveiling the sublime artistry of Japanese distilling, the Kurayoshi Distillery presents The Matsui Single Malt Sakura Cask NV. Produced in the Tottori Prefecture, an area revered for its pristine waters and crisp, cool climate, this exquisite whisky offers an unparalleled sensory journey. Aged in Sakura (cherry) casks, the Matsui Single Malt carries delicate floral notes balanced by a unique cherry-wood richness, resulting from its exceptional maturation process. Kurayoshi Distillery's meticulous crafting techniques are exemplified in this whisky, displaying an enticing complexity infused with warm, earthy undertones and a lingering finish. This exceptional malt is a testament to Kurayoshi Distillery's unyielding commitment to quality, offering a timeless drinking experience for both discerning connoisseurs and enthusiasts. Dive into a taste of Japan and let the Kurayoshi Distillery - The Matsui Single Malt Sakura Cask NV transport your senses.

Expressing a timeless elegance from Japan's Tottori Prefecture, the Kurayoshi Distillery introduces The Matsui Single Malt The Peated NV. This exquisite spirit presents a traditional profile, meticulously crafted using malted barley slowly smoked with peat. It embodies the distillery's unwavering commitment to quality, from the pristine, mineral-rich spring water used in its production to the expert ageing in ex-bourbon barrels.

The Matsui Peated NV reflects the distillery's lush forest surroundings with its aromatic profile, evoking earthy elements, verdant fern, and smoky cedar. The palate is a revelation of sweet spices, dark chocolate and ripe oranges, which unfold passionately, culminating in a long, warming finish. A testament to Japanese craftmanship, the Kurayoshi Distillery's The Matsui Single Malt The Peated NV is a symbiosis of traditional and innovative distillation techniques. Dichotomously smooth yet robust, it's an emblematic selection for the distinct and discerning palate.

Renowned for its full-bodied and robust character, the Lagavulin Islay Single Malt 16YO NV is an emblem of Islay’s unique distillation heritage. This single malt whisky is created on the island of Islay, Scotland; an area celebrated for its peat-rich soil, which influences a distinct smokey, iodine-laced flavour profile. Matured in oak casks for 16 years, this spirit is a testament to Lagavulin's excellence in traditional whisky-making techniques. This Bottling hosts a deep, amber gold colour, brooding with the unparalleled aroma of dry peat smoke, with a trace of maritime notes and rich, smooth malt. On the palate, it offers a balance of dried fruit sweetness harmoniously intertwining with a smoky-dryness, ending in a long, glorious finish. The Lagavulin Islay Single Malt 16YO NV is truly more than just a whisky – it's an indulgence, a privilege, a rich tapestry of peat, oak and subtle sweetness.

The Last Drop 50 Year Old Blended Scotch Whiskey NV is a rare and distinct offering from one of the most revered producers, The Last Drop Distillers. Originating from the lush landscapes of Scotland, it boasts transportive olfactory notes reminiscent of antique leather, ripe fruit, and a honied sweetness. This remarkable Scotch was crafted by marrying some of the rarest spirits from renowned distilleries that thrived during the golden era of Scotch Whisky. The meticulous process of blending these fifty-year-old whiskies results in an exquisite spirit overflowing with complexity and depth. Embodying a refined aged flavour profile of rich fruit tones underlined by a slight hint of smoke, it finishes with incredible smoothness and length. True connoisseurs will appreciate the attention to detail, including the bespoke packaging, that epitomises the luxury embodied in the Last Drop 50 Year Old Blended Scotch Whiskey NV. This is a truly extraordinary whisky, perfect for those seeking the ultimate indulgence.

Experience the pinnacle of fine winemaking with the Last Drop Colheita Centenario Duo Of Very Old Aged Tawny Port 1870 & 1970 NV. This exquisite selection, painstakingly crafted, represents a timeless compilation from two distinguished Port harvests. Foremost, the 1870 peace vintage, imbued with an unparalleled depth and complexity, fuses elegantly with the vibrant and spirited 1970 blend. Skillfully matured in a centuries-old cellar in Portugal, the wines express rich encapsulations of the Douro Valley's quintessential terroir. Internationally acclaimed wine creator, The Last Drop, champions this doubly remarkable release. They excel in their hunt for exceptional spirits and wines, consistently pushing boundaries by unearthing and bottling the world's most extraordinary and rarest beverages. The Last Drop Colheita Centenario Duo Of Very Old Aged Tawny Port 1870 & 1970 NV signifies their ode to the artistry of winemaking, offering a rare pact between the old and the new, seducing connoisseurs and collectors alike.

Crafted with unwavering precision, the Macallan Highland Single Malt A Night On Earth A Night On Earth Bottled 2023 NV stands as a testament to Macallan's artisanal distinction in the world of fine whiskies. Distilled in the illustrious Speyside region of Scotland, Macallan's masterful distillers extract the elegant flavour profile using traditional copper stills, and age the spirit in hand-picked oak casks. The choice of casks is pivotal, contributing to the whisky's luminous amber hue and full-bodied complexity.

The Macallan Highland Single Malt A Night On Earth A Night On Earth Bottled 2023 NV, speaks of an inimitable journey, achieving a perfect balance of rich, fruity notes and subtle oakiness. The spirit's mellow, vanilla-infused sweetness on the palate is interspersed with hints of cinnamon, nutmeg and ginger, transcending into a long finish of dried fruits and spice. This strikingly unique Scotch whisky signifies Macallan's ceaseless quest for perfection and commitment to unrivalled quality.

Crafted with unwavering precision, the Macallan Highland Single Malt A Night On Earth A Night On Earth Bottled 2023 NV stands as a testament to Macallan's artisanal distinction in the world of fine whiskies. Distilled in the illustrious Speyside region of Scotland, Macallan's masterful distillers extract the elegant flavour profile using traditional copper stills, and age the spirit in hand-picked oak casks. The choice of casks is pivotal, contributing to the whisky's luminous amber hue and full-bodied complexity.

The Macallan Highland Single Malt A Night On Earth A Night On Earth Bottled 2023 NV, speaks of an inimitable journey, achieving a perfect balance of rich, fruity notes and subtle oakiness. The spirit's mellow, vanilla-infused sweetness on the palate is interspersed with hints of cinnamon, nutmeg and ginger, transcending into a long finish of dried fruits and spice. This strikingly unique Scotch whisky signifies Macallan's ceaseless quest for perfection and commitment to unrivalled quality.

The Macallan Highland Single Malt Harmony Amber Meadow NV is an exceptional Scotch whisky, expertly crafted in the famed Macallan distillery in the Highlands of Scotland. This sophisticated spirit flaunts a rich, amber hue — an ode to its name 'Amber Meadow'. A journey on the palate, it presents an invigorating blend of earthy tones, honeyed sweetness, and an undertone of zesty citrus. Hand-selected oak casks, a signature of Macallan, contribute to its complex character, depth of flavour, and superior smooth finish.

Consistent perfection is the hallmark of Macallan, and the Harmony Amber Meadow NV is no exception. This non-vintage expression continues Macallan's exquisite legacy - it's not just a single malt, but an experience, delivering the authentic and opulent taste synonymous with Macallan Highland scotches. Experience the sublime balance and harmony this Macallan expression reflects on the global whisky connoisseurs' world.