Richard Mayson (18.5)

Wine Advocate (94)

Experience the transcending allure of the Four Roses Straight Bourbon Small Batch Barrel Strength 130th Anniversary Limited Edition Bottled 2018 NV. Birthed in the illustrious Four Roses Distillery in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky, this American bourbon is a profound tribute to 130 years of expertise and innovation. Employing a meticulous blend of 10-16 year old bourbons of four separate recipes, this speakeasy standout is a symphony of rich caramel and ripe red fruit on the nose. On the palate, it conveys an orchestra of flavours, from succulent cherry to toasted oak, underlined by seductive spicy undertones. These bourbons have been maturing in the socio-economic climate of the United States Midwest, imbuing the year's weather and terrain into the complex profile. The Four Roses Straight Bourbon Small Batch Barrel Strength 130th Anniversary Limited Edition Bottled 2018 NV is a rich composite of American history, a timeless vintage reserved for the discerning connoisseur.

Underscore your refined palate with the laudable Foursquare Principia Single Blinded Rum NV, a remarkable spirit originating from the famed Foursquare Distillery in Barbados. Enigmatic in execution, this distinctive expression delights with its nuanced fusion of pot and column distilled spirits.

Meticulously aged for three years in ex-bourbon casks before basking for an additional six years in ex-sherry casks, the rum's invigorating maturation process imparts a delightful character. The Foursquare Distillery, helmed by master distiller Richard Seale, is renowned for its adherence to traditional methods, eschewing flavour additives and colourings. This hands-on approach ensures the exquisite authenticity of Foursquare Principia Single Blended Rum NV.

Nose notes of ripe bananas and soft spice intensify to reveal layers of rich caramel, toasted almonds, and hints of dried fruits on the palate. This beautifully balanced blend crafts a memorable tapestry of taste, presenting a harmonious journey to distillation excellence.

From the revered Foursquare Distillery in the paradisiacal realms of Barbados, comes a remarkable rum testament - the Foursquare Single Blended Rum Double Maturation Patrimonio Bottled 2019 2004. This select rum shows the meticulous blending prowess of the distillery. Matured in both Kentucky bourbon barrels and Spanish sherry casks, it offers a sensational balance of two contrasting worlds.

Aged for 14 years, this double-matured wonder is a high-proof delight brimming with opulent notes of treacle, dried fruits, vanilla and oak. Produced by Richard Seale, a fourth-generation Master Distiller, this presentation epitomises legacy and innovation. The natural climate of Barbados ensures an astoundingly deep maturation process, imbuing the rum with unrivalled complexity and maturity. Revel in the rich ensemble of flavours presented by the award-winning Foursquare Single Blended Rum Double Maturation Patrimonio Bottled 2019 2004. A bona fide connoisseur's choice.

Famed for its exquisite flavour profile, the Foursquare Single Blended Sassafras Bottled November 2020 NV eloquently captivates the senses. Originating from the world-renowned Foursquare distillery in Barbados, this stunning blend is meticulously matured for a period of 12 years—3 years in ex-bourbon casks and a further 9 years in ex-Madeira casks.

Characterised by its unique sassafras notes, this single blended rum beautifully marries the flavours of treacle, red fruits, vanilla and oak, creating a remarkable palate experience. This is testament to Master Distiller Richard Seale's unwavering commitment to quality and sophistication. Reflective of its artisanal production, the Foursquare Single Blended Sassafras Bottled November 2020 NV is bottled at natural cask strength and devoid of any added sweetness, showcasing the distillery's devotion to genuine rum expressions.

Exuding tropical warmth and elegance, the Foursquare Single Blended Sassafras Bottled November 2020 NV is an extraordinary addition to any connoisseur's collection.

Experience the renowned Foursquare Single Blended Plenipotenziario Heavy & Light 12YO Bottled 2019 2007 crafted with skill and precise precision. This divine spirit, made from a blend of heavy and light distillates, originates from the highly-acclaimed Foursquare Rum Distillery in Barbados. The distillery, led by Master Distiller Richard Seale, adheres to a traditional method of distillation, encompassing a long fermentation process and premium quality sugar cane. Matured for 12 years and uniquely bottled in 2019, it carries a coveted age statement that signifies the youngest rum within the blend is 12 years old. Expect divine essence and heavenly tasting notes, including notes of tropical fruits, vanilla, and subtle spice. The Foursquare Single Blended Plenipotenziario Heavy & Light 12YO Bottled 2019 2007 wonderfully represents Foursquare's distinctive artistry in producing world-class spirits. Imbibe this top-tier spirit to indulge in an unprecedented taste and aromatic experience.

Experience the essence of Barbadian tradition with the Foursquare Single Blended Triptych NV. This truly exquisite spirit is curated by the critically acclaimed Foursquare Rum Distillery, recognised globally for its exceptional craftmanship. Unlike standard distilleries, Foursquare utilises a blend of both copper double retort pot and column still distillates, culminating in a richly complex spirit. Triptych NV, meaning composed of three parts, expertly amalgamates heritage, expertise, and authenticity, showcasing three uniquely distinctive vintages. Each cask contributes a distinct character, including bourbon, Madeira and virgin oak, with each element collaborating seamlessly for a harmoniously balanced finish. On the palate, one may find a delicately balanced myriad of vanilla, tropical fruits and warming spices, underscored by a smooth, lingering finish. The Foursquare Single Blended Triptych NV is indeed a testament to time-honoured Bajan distilling practices, blended to perfection by master distiller Richard Seale. Here emerges a spirit that truly offers an unparalleled Caribbean rum experience.

Francis Darroze Bas Armagnac Peyrot 1930 is a distinguished expression from the esteemed Bas Armagnac region. Crafted with meticulous attention, this 1930 vintage is distilled using traditional column stills, preserving the rich and robust character synonymous with Peyrot's heritage. Sourced from the lush vineyards of Gascony, the eau-de-vie undergoes an extended maturation in oak barrels, allowing it to develop complex flavours of dried fruits, spices, and subtle oak nuances. Francis Darroze, a venerable name in fine spirits, ensures each bottle embodies the legacy and craftsmanship of nearly a century-old tradition. This rare Armagnac stands as a testament to the enduring quality and expertise that defines the Peyrot lineage, making it a prized addition for connoisseurs seeking unparalleled elegance and depth in their collections.

Frapin Extra Cognac NV exemplifies exceptional craftsmanship from the heart of the Grande Champagne region. Esteemed by connoisseurs, this non-vintage blend is meticulously assembled from a selection of eaux-de-vie aged for a minimum of six years in French oak barrels. Frapin, a family-owned producer with a legacy spanning generations, harnesses the unique terroir of their vineyards to create a harmonious and sophisticated spirit. The careful distillation process preserves the delicate floral and fruity notes, while extended ageing imparts rich complexity with hints of spice and vanilla. The result is a velvety smooth Cognac, showcasing Frapin's dedication to quality and tradition. Ideal for savouring neat or enhancing refined cocktails, Frapin Extra Cognac NV is a testament to the art of fine Cognac making.

Gantenbein Vieux Marc 2007 epitomises exceptional Swiss distillation artistry. Crafted in the renowned Valais region, this distinguished spirit begins with carefully selected grape pomace, meticulously fermented to extract maximum flavour. Gantenbein employs traditional copper pot distillation, ensuring purity and depth in every batch. The Vieux Marc 2007 is then aged for over a decade in French oak barrels, allowing it to develop a rich, amber hue and a complex aroma of dried apricots, honeyed spices, and subtle vanilla notes. The esteemed Gantenbein family has upheld their legacy of quality and craftsmanship for generations, emphasising sustainable practices and terroir expression. On the palate, this exquisite marc delivers a harmonious blend of robust flavours and smooth textures, culminating in a long, elegant finish. Perfect for the discerning connoisseur, Gantenbein Vieux Marc 2007 stands as a testament to unparalleled quality and sophisticated refinement.

A revered jewel amongst connoisseurs, the Gelas Bas Armagnac Vintage 1955 is a prodigious emblem of French elegance. Crafted in the Gascony region, this distinguished spirit hails from a noble lineage of vineyards meticulously nurtured by the Gelas family for over four generations. The vintage's distinctive character unfolds in the precision of its distillation, done in single continuous column stills to preserve the grape’s essence.

The Gelas Bas Armagnac Vintage 1955 radiates a harmonious orchestra of flavours, weaving notes of prunes, figs and hints of chocolate on a velvety tapestry. Its remarkable complexity is a testament to its ageing process in oak barrels, perfecting the blend's mellifluous symphony with an undertone of woody spice.

With each indulgent sip, one travels back in time, absorbing the illustrious history of 1955. A sophisticated pleasure, the Gelas Bas Armagnac Vintage 1955 transcends mere spirit, it captures the quintessence of tradition and time.

True to its London Dry pedigree, Gilpins Westmorland Extra Dry London Dry NV is an illustrious spirit hailing from England. The dedication to tradition begins at production: it's meticulously distilled five times, achieving an unrivalled purity. The gin is alchemized from ethically-grown botanicals, including Macedonian juniper berries, zest from organic Seville oranges, and balm leaf from Asia.

In harmony with ancient methods, water from the Holy Well Spring in Cartmel Valley, Westmorland is used to cut the gin; its mineral-rich essence lends an exceptional smoothness to the drink. This super premium gin pays tribute to the legacy of Sir Gilpin, presented within a beautifully designed bearing script and imagery from the 17th century.

The Gilpins Westmorland Extra Dry London Dry NV encapsulates artistry, delivering every sip with a harmonious blend of botanical perfection. This epitome of discernment is a must for the discerning gin lover's collection.

Glen Elgin, Single Malt Cask 802071A Port Octave 11YO, Speyside 2011 exemplifies the elegance of Speyside malts. Distilled at the esteemed Glen Elgin Distillery, this single malt undergoes a meticulous maturation process, spending 11 years in carefully selected port casks. The 2011 vintage benefits from the region’s pristine water sources and traditional copper pot stills, ensuring a refined character. Masterfully crafted by seasoned distillers, the spirit reveals a harmonious balance of rich berry notes and subtle oak undertones, complemented by a velvety smooth finish. Each cask is hand-selected to guarantee exceptional quality and consistency, reflecting Glen Elgin’s dedication to excellence. This Port Octave expression showcases the intricate interplay between the whisky’s natural sweetness and the luxurious influence of port aging, making it a distinguished choice for connoisseurs seeking depth and sophistication in their fine spirits. Experience the unparalleled craftsmanship of Glen Elgin with this remarkable single malt offering.

Indulge in the exquisite Glen Grant Single Malt Dennis Malcolm 60th Anniversary 1st Fill Oloroso Sherry Cask No 5040 60YO 1960 – a testament to the art of fine whisky distillation. Distilled in Scotland's revered Speyside region, this outstanding 1960 vintage presents a luxurious journey through time. Famed master distiller Dennis Malcolm meticulously hand-picked this single cask to commemorate his six decades of preeminent craftsmanship. A 60-year-old gem, this whisky has been aged in a first-fill oloroso sherry cask, inspiring an extraordinary tapestry of aromas and flavours. You'll find notes of polished antique oak, orchard fruits and inviting warm spices dancing in perfect harmony, underscored by the pervasive whisper of elegant sherry tones. The Glen Grant Single Malt Dennis Malcolm 60th Anniversary 1st Fill Oloroso Sherry Cask No 5040 60YO 1960 is a limited edition, encapsulating the essence of a bygone era, and a truly unforgettable single malt.

Whisky Base (93)

Experience the rare and exceptional Glenfarclas Highland Single Malt 1st Fill Hogshead Cask No 3005 Bottled 2022 2008. This exquisite expression is a product of Glenfarclas distillery, renowned for its heritage and centuries-old expertise in the heart of Speyside, Scotland. This single malt whisky is aged for 14 years in first fill hogshead casks, conferring the unique richness and complexity of its flavour profile. Bold and vibrant, it emanates luscious notes of honey, oak, and warming spices. Thanks to the diligent crafting process that adheres to traditional distillation methods, every sip provides a testament to the craftsmanship of the venerable Glenfarclas distillery. A dram of Glenfarclas Highland Single Malt 1st Fill Hogshead Cask No 3005 Bottled 2022 2008 is not just a whisky, it's an encounter with history and timeless spirit.

Colour: Full, rich dark gold.

Nose: Full, complex aromas with dried berries and sherry-infused malty tones

Palate: Sweetness akin to a fine, aged cognac with incredible oloroso depth and freshness. Fruit, nuts, marzipan and Christmas cake warming spice.

Finish: A whisky you never want to end and it almost feels as if it won't, the finish goes on forever with spice, decadent dark cocoa and forest floor. A final flourish of spiced demerara rum leaves you longing for more.

Colour: Full, rich dark gold.

Nose: Rich, complex fruit aromas with sherried, malty tones.

Flavour: Sherry, cognac, demerara rum characteristics alongside fruit, nuts and marzipan. Indulgent Christmas cake spiciness.

Finish: A whisky you never want to end and it almost feels as if it won't, the finish goes on forever with spice, decadent dark cocoa and forest floor.

Colour: Autumnal, red gold.

Nose: Fresh sweetness with fruity Turkish delight with a power akin to the first whiff from a freshly opened bag of Java coffee beans.

Palate: An undeniably decadent sweetness on the palate with salted caramel, dark cocoa and Oloroso-soaked raisins. Sherry comes through with excellent power, bringing with it Sherry and spicy demerara notes.

Finish: Lingering and persistent with alternating layers of sweetness and dry roastiness and peppery spice. Extremely complex and enthralling.

Colour: Amber with dark-gold highlights.

Nose: Complex yet refined with tempting aromas of marmalade, nuts, freshly ground coffee and chocolate.

Flavour: Full-bodied and robust with some oaky tannins courtesy of its exceptional age in sherry barrels.

Finish: Powerful but never overbearing with exceptional balance. Intense and long in the mouth with beautiful finesse and freshness.