Richard Mayson (18.5)

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.

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.

Whisky Base (93)

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.