One job I'm sometimes asked about is that of being a whisky brand ambassador. It's a role that's increased in prominence over the past couple of days.
Whisky brand ambassadors have that passion for whisky. They're typically also 'people people', who enjoy meeting others. They're generally comfortable with public speaking, and happy to travel - whether domestically or internationally.
But what exactly does a whisky brand ambassador do? What skills are required, and how does one step into this role? I thought I'd use this article to explore some of the common questions about being a whisky brand ambassador. If its a career path you're interested in, I hope the below FAQs are useful.
A whisky brand ambassador represents a particular whisky brand, or collection of brands. They educate and entertain people about whisky, promote their brand, and often travel to various events and venues to do this. They get to share whisky, give insider knowledge, visit bars and whisky clubs, and play a key role in marketing and expanding the brand.
To become a whisky brand ambassador, you need a deep knowledge of the world of whisky and whiskey. This will ideally include the specifics of the brand you represent, its peers, and the overall whisky market. Public speaking skills are crucial, as you will be presenting information about the brand to different audiences. You also need the ability to strike a balance between educating and entertaining your audience. So, good storytelling, being personable, and having some old-school hospitable charm are all advantages.
A significant amount of knowledge about whisky is required to be a whisky brand ambassador. This includes an understanding of your brand, competing brands, and the broader whisky market. The role has evolved over the years, and today's brand ambassadors are expected to have a deep understanding of the industry than in the past. With so much information available on the internet, and with super keen customers, brand ambassadors have to be on the top of their game!
The work schedule for a whisky brand ambassador is not a typical 9-to-5. Tasting events and activations often happen in the evenings, and there's sometimes an expectation to continue socialising after these events end. Today's world of social media means brand ambassadors are often expected to be always "on," including responding to messages received outside of traditional working hours.
A whisky brand ambassador often travels to different events and venues to promote their brand. This can include whisky tastings, industry events, and promotional activities. The amount of travel can vary depending on the specific role and the brand's needs, but it's a significant part of the job for many brand ambassadors.
Public speaking is a crucial skill for a whisky brand ambassador. They are often required to present information about the brand to different audiences, ranging from casual whisky drinkers to industry experts. They need to be able to hold and entertain an audience while also imparting knowledge about the brand and the broader whisky category. Good public speaking skills can help a brand ambassador engage their audience, share their message, and leave a positive impression.
Striking the right balance between education and entertainment is a key part of a whisky brand ambassador's role. Every tasting event, presentation, or appearance needs to have an element of both. This balance can vary depending on the audience and occasion. For example, a more formal event may need a greater focus on education. A casual gathering might benefit from a more entertaining approach. Developing this skill often involves understanding your audience, being adaptable, and having a good sense of timing. You want to make sure you are providing valuable information, but you also want to keep your audience engaged and entertained.
Whisky brand ambassadors typically get some good training before heading out on the road. This training can include deepening their knowledge about whisky, developing their public speaking and presentation skills, and learning about the specific brand they represent. That said, it is true that many brand ambassadors go into the role with a lot of knowledge already. They may already be in the industry, or they might be graduating from highly-engaged enthusiast to professional.
Whisky brand ambassadors are often expected to be active online. The social platforms are a good way to engage with whisky lovers, answer questions, share behind-the-scenes content, and promote events. Being accessible and responsive on social media is seen as part of being always "on" for the brand. Companies will sometimes give brand ambassadors a bit of a guide, or an outline, on how best to interact through social media.
Yes, naturally, and rightly, brand ambassadors do get paid for their work. The amount they earn varies depending on a number of factors, including the brand they're working for, the scope of their work, level of experience, and where they're working. Full time brand ambassadors would be paid a regular salary, while freelance brand ambassadors might be paid per event or campaign.
Freelance brand ambassadors are hired on a more ad-hoc basis. The core of the hob is the same: represent a brand in a positive light, and by doing so they help to increase brand awareness and sales. But freelance brand ambassadors are not employed directly by the company, instead they work on a contract basis. Freelance brand ambassadors might be hired for specific events, campaigns, or periods of time. It's a flexible role that will often sit alongside either representing other brands, or holding down other jobs.
We love the hustle! Yes, being a whisky brand ambassador could potentially be a good side hustle. Especially if you have a passion for whisky and enjoy public speaking and socialising. It's a role that can often involve evening and weekend work, as this is when many tasting events and promotional activities take place. Which might actually be a positive, as this could fit well with, say, a Monday to Friday job.
But just keep in mind that, like any freelance job, the work could be unpredictable. The number of gigs you get can fluctuate, and this can lead to an inconsistent income. So, either manage your finances so you don't have a sole reliance on this, or build a solid network to ensure a steady stream of opportunities. Ideally, both.
Becoming a whisky brand ambassador can be a lot of fun. It's a journey that combines passion, knowledge, and people. While the role can be challenging and demanding, it can also be a great opportunity to work in an industry we love so much. The key to success lies in continuing to learn, honing your public speaking skills, and nurturing your storytelling abilities.
For those interested in becoming a whisky brand ambassador, here are some practical steps you can take:
I've loved the various bits of freelance brand ambassador work I've done over the years. The hours and schedule can be tough. But sharing great whiskies with great people is always really rewarding.
If you're interested in becoming a whisky brand ambassador, continue to hone your knowledge of whisky. Read books, attend tastings, and learn about different distilleries and their processes. Consider getting experience in the drinks industry, particularly in roles that involve educating and entertaining others. Networking is also crucial. Attend industry events and connect with people who are already working as brand ambassadors. Online platforms like LinkedIn can be very helpful for this.
Next, consider enhancing your public speaking and presentation skills. You should be comfortable speaking in front of a crowd and know how to make your presentations informative and entertaining.
Finally, keep an eye on job postings on platforms like Indeed, SimplyHired, and LinkedIn. You may spot job openings for whisky brand ambassadors. Of course, you can also keep an eye on the career pages of particular brands you're keen to work with. You could even reach out to them directly to ask about opportunities available now or in the future.
Remember, becoming a whisky brand ambassador is not just about enjoying whisky—it's about becoming a part of the whisky community and sharing your passion and knowledge with others. It can be a challenging journey, but also an incredibly rewarding one.
Good luck, I'll raise a dram to you.
]]>A highball is a tall drink consisting of a spirit, especially whisky, and a mixer such as soda served with ice in a tall glass. Simple, refreshing, and delicious, highballs can be an ideal way to enjoy whisky during the hot days of Summer.
The term 'highball' originated sometime around 1898, and the story goes that its the combination of 'ball', which at the time was a term for 'having fun' or 'drinking whisky', and from 'high' because the drink would be served in tall glasses, just as it is today.
Today highballs are commonly associated with Japan, where its common to find office workers enjoying a whisky and soda, a highball, with their colleagues after a busy - and long - day in the office.
But the exact origins of highballs as a cocktail are unclear. New York barman Patrick Duffy claimed the highball was brought to the US in 1894 from England by actor E. J. Ratcliffe, where it was then popularised.
As a cocktail, highballs are about as simple as you can get: it's a spirit, with an alcoholic mixer, served over plenty of ice in a tall glass. Now you probably won't be surprised that we're going to take 'spirit' to mean 'whisky' here, so we've drawn up our top 5 best whisky highball recipes. We think these will give you a few variations on the theme of whisky with a mixer.
They say you can't beat the classics, and yes, scotch and soda is synonymous with whisky highballs. Perfect for the hot weather, and perfect if you want a long-style whisky drink to enjoy with food.
Ingredients
Method
This is a refreshing highball which will wake you up after a warm sticky afternoon, or makes for a great palate cleanser at the start or end of your meal.
Ingredients
Method
This is all about fruity citrus notes - plenty of lemon, and a bit of orange. Think of it as a grown-up lemonade. Perfect.
Ingredients
Method
This is a great drink. Its a rich and fruity highball that has a touch of class about it. As a tall chilled drink, it works beautifully on a hot summers day; but it's so tasty that it would be great any time of year.
Ingredients
Method
This is a great highball for when the evenings start to get cooler - refreshing, but warming. Perfect!
Ingredients
Method
I hope you enjoyed these? Do let me know which is your favourite whisky highball recipe in the comments below, I'd be curious to hear. If you need a few more cocktail ideas, check out our articles about the best whiskey sour recipes and our top 5 best whisky cocktails for the summer. Whatever you're drinking this summer, and wherever you are, enjoy; I'll be raising a whisky highball to you!
Cheers, Ed
]]>I love a dram of whisky. You probably expected me to say that. But with the dry heat of Summer 2023, I find myself wanting something cooler as I sit in the garden soaking up the last of the day's sun. And while I like whisky on the rocks, a whiskey sour, or a Highball as much as the next person, having been in lockdown for months I'm missing the cocktail bars of London. I'm in the mood for something unusual this summer. Something unique. And above all, something delicious.
In this article we've drawn up our top 5 best whisky cocktails for the summer - and there's not a Highball or Old Fashioned in sight! We've given you a rough outline for the kind of whisky we'd recommend, but naturally you can use any whiskies you like - so, happy experimenting!
Who doesn't like a Pina Colada when on a tropical summer holiday? It's basically compulsory right? Well, here's our Highland twist on this classic cocktail.
Ingredients
Method
A cold, crisp pint of cider can really hit the spot on a hot, dry, summer's afternoon. This delicious whisky cocktail builds on that set of flavours.
Ingredients
Method
A fusion of the warm Italian countryside, with the hot tin warehouses of America. Delicious, unusual, and a great whisky cocktail for the summer.
Ingredients
Method
A twist on the classic mint julep, this adds strawberries for an extra bit of summer sunshine, and Jalapeños for an extra kick.
Ingredients
Method
This is a classy, fruity and delicious whisky cocktail that would be great for Friday evening celebrations during summer.
Ingredients
Method
I hope you enjoy these whisky cocktails, and do let me know in the comments if you make any of them - or indeed if you have any other great cocktail recipes to share, I'd love to hear them!
Cheers, Ed
Sources and references:
https://www.townandcountrymag.com/leisure/drinks/g3242/whiskey-cocktails/
https://www.delish.com/cooking/recipe-ideas/a32783504/strawberry-mint-julep-recipe/
https://www.thespruceeats.com/blood-and-sand-cocktail-recipe-761336
https://punchdrink.com/articles/wtf-is-wrong-with-the-blood-and-sand-scotch-cocktail-recipe/
https://www.dreamyachtcharter.co.uk/the-top-five-cocktails-to-enjoy-on-a-yacht-charter-dream-yacht-charter/pina-colada/
https://pelotonmagazine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Giro-4.jpg
]]>Should you add ice to whisky over summer 2023? It’s one of the most controversial questions of our age: ice in your whisky; nuclear disarmament; jam or cream on top of your scone. It is serious business. The issue divides families and ruins a night out. Or, more specifically, has ruined many days out. Under the summer sun, even aficionados can be tempted to add ice to their whisky.
Some people always add ice to whisky; they say it gives the whisky a smoother, cleaner taste. Others believe it is an abomination. So, should we give ice lovers the cold shoulder? Or do the purists need to chill out?
You should drink whisky the way you like. If you want to sit on a beach on a summer’s day and drink scotch whisky on the rocks, do it. Mind if I pulled up a chair? In this blog, I lay out the case for and against drinking whisky with ice. So you can decide whether to drink your whisky with ice this summer.
When you taste whisky, you want to appreciate its intricacies. How you serve whisky is important for amplifying aromas. It’s an accepted fact that adding water to whisky helps you enjoy more of its flavours. But, adding ice should do the same thing? The last time I checked, ice is frozen water. So, what’s the big deal with adding ice to whisky?
The issue isn’t the water. It’s the temperature. Think back to science classes. When you warm liquids up, the molecules move faster. When you cool them down, the molecules move slower. Cooling down the whisky alters the carefully balanced flavours. Your tongue can’t pick up as much.
Have you ever had a warm Coke? It tastes a lot different than it did when it was cold. When you drink warm Coke, you notice different flavours than you did when it was crisp and refreshing. Warm Coke is gross because you taste too much of it. Cold whisky isn’t good because you taste too little of it.
So, there you go. You should not have whisky with ice this summer.
Adding ice to whisky dulls the flavours. Case closed. Right?
Not quite.
There is a difference between adding one or two ice cubes and filling the glass with ice. If you add a lot of ice, it melts slowly and suppresses the flavours by chilling the whisky too much. Adding one or two ice cubes will cool the whisky and, when the ice melts, helps release flavours and aromas. So, adding one or two ice cubes can be like adding a bit of water. And you can still pick up some of the whisky’s flavours without dulling them too much.
In the summer, you want something cool and refreshing. Adding ice to your whisky does that. If you’re not trying to taste all the nuances of a whisky, and you want to sit in the sun and enjoy a drink, then why not add ice? On the rocks, you lose what makes a great whisky a great whisky. But sometimes you don’t need it to be a great whisky. Sometimes, you want to kick back and get some sun.
So, if you want to, you should have whisky with ice this summer.
Adding water is the best way to appreciate the nuances and flavours of a whisky. Many of the whiskies we feature on TopWhiskies have a high alcohol content, so using water is a great way to enjoy them.
You might enjoy our spring waters by Uisge Source. Taken from specially selected springs in the key scotch producing regions of Speyside, Highlands and Islay, these waters have the same mineral composition as the waters used by the regional distilleries in the production of their scotch. That makes the waters perfect for cutting down the strength of a cask strength or high ABV whisky, without losing that regional character.
When the weather is hot, cocktails can also be a great way to enjoy whisky. Indeed, whisky cocktails can introduce new people to whisky. Whisky highballs are the perfect refreshing drink when it's hot.
But ultimately how you enjoy your whisky is up to you. If you want to enjoy a whisky with ice this summer, do it. You should enjoy your whisky. If you enjoy the experience on the rocks, then nothing should stop you.
For more insight into whether you should add ice into your whisky, read Jonathan Wells’ article in Gentleman's Journal.
Singapore is renowned for its diverse and thriving culinary scene, and its whisky culture is no exception. With an ever-growing number of whisky bars, the Lion City is quickly becoming a top destination for whisky enthusiasts. Our list of the top 10 best whisky bars in Singapore will guide you through the best venues to indulge in the finest drams from around the world.
Where: 9 Bras Basah Road, Rendezvous Hotel, Gallery #02-02A, Singapore 189559
About: The Auld Alliance is an elegant and sophisticated whisky bar, offering one of the largest whisky selections in Southeast Asia, with over 1,000 bottles on the menu. The bar's knowledgeable staff can guide you through their extensive collection, and the refined atmosphere makes it a perfect destination for a special occasion or a quiet night out.
Find out more: Visit Auld Alliance's website here.
Where: Esplanade Mall #02-27, 8 Raffles Avenue, Singapore 039802
About: The ExciseMan was one of the first specialist whisky bars in Singapore. In addition to an impressive collection of whisky, cognac and armagnac. The ExciseMan also offers fine dining experiences and has an extensive wine menu.
Find out more: Visit The ExciseMan's website here.
Where: 80 Mohamed Sultan Road, #01-10 The Pier @ Robertson, Singapore 239013
About: La Maison du Whisky is a French-inspired whisky bar and retail store, offering a diverse range of over 800 whiskies. The knowledgeable staff can guide you through their extensive menu, and the bar regularly hosts tastings, masterclasses, and special events.
Find out more: Visit La Maison du Whisky's website here.
Where: 30 Beach Road, South Beach Avenue #01-16, Singapore 189763
About: Quaich Bar is Singapore's first dedicated whisky bar, boasting a selection of over 500 whiskies from around the world. The knowledgeable staff and welcoming atmosphere make it an ideal destination for both seasoned whisky enthusiasts and those new to the world of whisky.
Find out more: Visit Quaich's website here.
Where: 10 Collyer Quay, B1-08 Ocean Financial Centre, Singapore 049315
About: The Secret Mermaid is a hidden gem located in the Ocean Financial Centre, offering a diverse range of over 150 whiskies. This intimate and cozy bar is the perfect spot to unwind after work or enjoy a quiet dram with friends. With a focus on American whiskies, The Secret Mermaid offers a unique experience for those looking to explore the world of bourbon and rye.
Find out more: Visit The Secret Mermaid's website here.
Where: 50A Prinsep Street #02-01, Singapore 188680
About: The Swan Song is a cozy and intimate whisky bar offering a carefully curated selection of over 300 whiskies. The knowledgeable staff and warm atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for any whisky lover in Singapore. With a focus on rare and limited releases, The Swan Song provides a unique experience for those seeking something extraordinary.
Find out more: Visit The Swan Song's website here.
Where: 31 Lorong Mambong, Holland Village, Singapore 277689
About: Wala Wala Café Bar is a lively and casual whisky bar located in the popular Holland Village. Offering a selection of over 100 whiskies, Wala Wala provides a laid-back atmosphere for whisky enthusiasts to enjoy their favourite drams while listening to live music or catching up with friends. The bar also offers a menu of delicious pub-style dishes to complement your whisky experience.
Find out more: Visit Wala Wala's website here.
Where: 39 Syed Alwi Road, Singapore 207630
About: Based in the ornate and luxurious interior of The Vagabond Club, a luxury boutique hotel, The Whiskey Library & Jazz Club has 1,000 bottles of whisky. As the name might suggest, The Whiskey Library and Jazz Club puts on plenty of entertainment. From sung and told Jazz stories, through intimate theatre and book readings, to independent film premieres, there's always lots happening.
Find out more: Visit Whiskey Library & Jazz Club's website.
Where: 3 Temasek Boulevard #01-455, Tower 5 Suntec City, Singapore 038983.
About: As the name might suggest this is part museum, part visitor attraction, part bar. A good option if you're looking to learn more about whisky, and after an all-round experience, including a few drams.
Find out more: Visit Grande Whisky Museum's website here.
Where: 390A Orchard Road, #02-10 Palais Renaissance, SG 238871
About: The Writing Club is a luxurious whisky bar located in the upscale Palais Renaissance. With a curated selection of over 700 whiskies, including rare and limited-edition bottles, The Writing Club offers a sophisticated and intimate experience for those seeking to savour the finest drams.
Find out more: Visit The Writing Club's website here.
Singapore's dynamic whisky scene offers an incredible array of whisky bars. I hope this list of the top 10 whisky bars in Singapore showcases the city's passion for whisky, and gives you a few choices to try.
Whether you're seeking rare and exclusive whiskies or simply looking for a lively venue to enjoy a dram with friends, these bars promise are sure to be fun.
Cheers!
]]>Welcome to our guide on the top 10 best specialist whisky bars and pubs in the UK! Whether you're a whisky enthusiast or just looking for a unique experience, these venues offer an exceptional array of rare and exquisite whiskies. From Scotland to London and beyond, our curated list will take you on a journey through the finest whisky establishments in the United Kingdom.
So, without further ado, let's explore the best places to enjoy a dram or two. Here are my top 10 best whisky bars in the UK, for 2023, in alphabetical order.
Where: Kilkerran Road, Campbeltown, Argyll, PA28 6JL
About: Close to the Springbank and Glen Scotia distilleries, this hotel bar holds a large collection of whiskies, including many from the local distilleries. There are over 700 malts to choose from, many which are rare and exclusive. And that list is changing all the time. The hotel is also a good option for people looking for somewhere to stay in Campbeltown.
Find out more: Visit Ardshiel's website here.
Where: 153 North Street, Glasgow, G3 7DA
About: The Bon Accord is a legendary whisky bar in Glasgow, known for its extensive selection of over 400 whiskies. With an emphasis on Scottish malts, the bar is a favourite among locals and tourists alike. Their friendly and knowledgeable staff can help you navigate their impressive menu, and don't forget to try their delicious traditional Scottish dishes.
Find out more: Visit Bon Accord's website here.
Where: 75-80 Vyse Street, Birmingham, B18 6HA
About: Located in Birmingham's historic Jewellery Quarter, Grain & Glass offers an intimate and exclusive experience. With a collection of over 300 whiskies and a focus on independent distilleries, this members-only club also hosts regular tastings, masterclasses, and special events.
Find out more: Visit the Grain and Glass website here.
Where: 153 Hammersmith Rd, London, W14 0QL
About: The Melody Whisky Bar is situated in the St Paul’s Hotel, located in London’s fashionable Hammersmith. The Melody’s team has amazing collection renowned and specialist whiskies, continually growing their collection with many famous brands and sought-after rarities. They specialise in often hard-to-find releases, such as Bimber exclusives. Pop in any time to sample some truly special drams, or join one of their whisky dinners throughout the year where you will be treated to fine food and even finer drinks.
Find out more: Visit Melody's website here.
Where: 3 Greek Street, Soho, London, W1D 4NX
Note: Milroy's have two venues in London, you can also find them near Spitalfields market.
About: Milroy's of Soho is London's oldest whisky shop and bar. With over 1000 whiskies available for tasting, the knowledgeable staff can guide you through their vast selection. The bar also hosts regular masterclasses, tastings, and special events, making it an essential destination for whisky enthusiasts.
Find out more: Visit Milroy's website here.
Where: 154 Hope Street, Glasgow, G2 2TH
About: The Pot Still is an iconic whisky pub in the heart of Glasgow. With over 700 whiskies available, the bar prides itself on its impressive selection of Scottish malts. The warm and welcoming atmosphere, coupled with friendly and knowledgeable staff, make The Pot Still a must-visit for any whisky lover.
Find out more: Visit The Pot Still's website here.
Where: 28 Queen Street, Edinburgh, EH2 1JX
About: The Scotch Malt Whisky Society in Edinburgh is a members-only club, but it's worth the investment. Offering one of the most extensive collections of single cask, single malt whiskies in the world, you'll have access to exclusive tastings, events, and limited-edition bottlings. Non-members can still enjoy a taste of the SMWS experience at their partner bars throughout the UK.
Find out more: Visit SMWS's website here.
Where: 2-4 Hope Street, Edinburgh, EH2 4DB
About: With a name that comes from the Gaelic phrase for whisky, "usquebaugh", Usquabae's extensive menu offers a range of both popular and rare whiskies. They stock over 400 whiskies, each bottle having been hand-selected for its exceptional quality and unique flavour profile. They also run regular bar take overs, with special flights, beer and whisky pairings, and cocktails.
Find out more: Visit Usquabae's website here.
Where: 14 Tariff Street, Manchester, M1 2FF
About: The Whisky Jar in Manchester's Northern Quarter is a popular haunt for whisky enthusiasts. With over 400 whiskies on offer, from classic Scottish malts to Japanese blends, there's something for everyone. The rustic, laid-back atmosphere and regular live music make it a perfect spot for a night out.
Find out more: Visit The Whiskey Jar's website here.
Where: 4-7 North Bank Street, Edinburgh, EH1 2LP
About: The Whiski Rooms in Edinburgh is a whisky bar, restaurant, and shop, all rolled into one. With over 300 whiskies available, the bar offers stunning views of the city and a relaxed atmosphere. The restaurant serves delicious Scottish cuisine, and the shop has a vast array of whiskies available for purchase, including some rare and limited editions.
Find out more: Visit Whiski Rooms' website here.
The UK is home to some of the best specialist whisky bars and pubs in the world, offering a unique opportunity to taste rare and exquisite whiskies. We hope our list of the top 10 establishments will help guide your journey through the wonderful world of whisky. Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or just starting your whisky adventure, these venues provide an unparalleled experience for everyone. Cheers!
]]>For many, this discovery leads to a lifelong passion and the desire to start a whisky collection. Starting a whisky collection led me, for example, to founding TopWhiskies!
However, entering the world of whisky collecting can seem daunting. With so many types, regions, and brands to explore, where does one begin? This guide is designed to answer that question and many more. By following some of these suggestions, I hope you'll be well on your way to building a whisky collection in 2023. One that's not only an investment but also, importantly, a source of endless enjoyment and learning.
When starting a whisky collection, you may want to consider focusing on a specific type or region of whisky. This can help narrow your choices and deepen your understanding of that particular style or region. For example, you could concentrate on single malt Scotch whiskies, which are known for their diversity in flavours depending on the region, or American bourbons with their unique sweet profile due to the corn content and ageing process.
The cost of starting a whisky collection can vary widely, depending on your personal tastes and the types of whisky you wish to collect. You could start with less expensive bottles, which can range from £25 to £75, or go for rare and aged whiskies that can cost hundreds or even thousands of pounds per bottle. It's important to start within your budget and remember that the value of a whisky collection is not just monetary but also the enjoyment and knowledge you gain.
Proper storage of your whisky collection is vital to preserve its quality. Whisky should be stored upright to prevent the cork from drying out and the whisky from oxidizing. Keep your bottles away from heat and sunlight, as they can cause the whisky to age prematurely. A cool, dark place with a consistent temperature is ideal. Also, try to store your whiskies in a place with a stable humidity level to prevent the cork from drying out.
Evaluating the quality and value of a whisky involves understanding its production process, age, rarity, and tasting notes. Age and rarity often play a significant role in the value of a whisky. Additionally, reviews and ratings from reputable sources can also provide insight into a whisky's quality. However, personal preference also matters. A whisky you enjoy drinking is always valuable.
Whisky auctions can be a great place to find rare and collectable bottles that aren't available in retail stores. However, it's important to do your research before bidding. Check the provenance of the bottle, understand its market value, and set a budget for your bid. Beware of counterfeit bottles and remember that while some bottles may increase in value over time, this isn't always the case.
Most auctions require you to register in advance, providing your details and agreeing to terms and conditions. Once you've registered, you can browse the lots they have available. Auctions usually give you detailed descriptions and images of the bottles up for auction. Make sure to look at the photos carefully. A good auction house will usually bring your attention to any damage on the bottle and box, and it's worth remembering you'd be buying it "as is".
Bidding can be a rather exciting experience. But it's important to set a budget and stick to it. That way you won't get carried away in the excitement, and can ensure you pay a price you're comfortable with.
Remember, the final price will also include a buyer's premium, taxes, and potential shipping costs. So it's worth factoring these in while considering your maximum bid. You don't want to end up over-paying, once these additional costs land.
Last but not least, check where the bottle is, and what the shipping - and in particular - tax implications are. Again, import tax can be a hidden fee for some people, and you don't want nasty surprises when the bottle arrives!
Ensuring the authenticity of a bottle can be challenging, especially for rare and collectable whiskies. Look for red flags like incorrect labelling or packaging, unusually low prices, or sellers with a dubious reputation. When buying from an auction or a private seller, request proof of provenance. If you're unsure, consider seeking advice from a whisky expert or a reputable whisky club.
There are several places to buy whisky for your collection. Retailers and liquor stores often have a wide selection of popular brands and releases. Online retailers (like yours truly!) can offer a broader range, like artisan whiskies, or international whiskies. Auctions, both online and physical, can be sources of rare and collectable bottles. Always ensure that you're buying from reputable sources to avoid counterfeit products.
Tracking the value of your whisky collection over time can be done through various online resources, including whisky valuation websites and auction sites. These provide historical sales data that can give you an idea of how the value of particular bottles has changed over time. However, bear in mind that the value of a bottle can fluctuate based on factors such as demand, rarity, and market trends.
Insuring your whisky collection is crucial, especially if you have invested in rare or high-value bottles. Standard home insurance policies may not provide sufficient coverage, so you may need a specialised policy or a personal articles floater added to your home insurance. Always document your collection thoroughly, including receipts and photos of each bottle, to simplify the claims process if necessary.
Cataloguing your whisky collection involves keeping a record of each bottle, including details like distillery, age, cask type, ABV, price, and purchase date. You can use a simple spreadsheet or a whisky collection app. Include notes on the taste and aroma of each whisky, and consider taking photos of each bottle for reference and insurance purposes.
The condition of the bottle and packaging can significantly impact the value of a whisky, especially for collectible bottles. Damaged labels, torn packaging, low fill levels, and signs of poor storage can all reduce a bottle's value. When buying, look for bottles in good condition and store them carefully to maintain their condition.
Learning about whisky tasting notes involves experiencing a wide range of whiskies and refining your palate over time. Read reviews and tasting notes from reputable sources, and consider attending tastings or joining a whisky club. Keeping a tasting journal can also help you track your impressions and develop your understanding of different whisky profiles.
Reputable whisky rating sources include publications like Whisky Advocate, Whisky Magazine, and online platforms like Whiskybase. These sources provide reviews and ratings from experts who have extensive knowledge and experience with whisky. Remember, though, that tasting is subjective, and the best whisky is the one you enjoy the most.
Whisky shows and festivals are events where enthusiasts and industry professionals come together to taste and discuss whisky. These events often feature tastings, masterclasses, and the opportunity to try rare and new releases. Attending these events can be a great way to expand your knowledge, taste a wide range of whiskies, and meet other enthusiasts and industry professionals.
If you find sediment or cork fragments in your whisky, don't worry. Sediment can occur naturally in non-chill-filtered whiskies, and cork fragments can break off when opening the bottle. Here's what you can do.
If the sediment bothers you, there's a simple solution: decanting. This process involves slowly pouring the whisky into another container, leaving the sediment behind. Here's how you can do it:
Cork fragments in your whisky can occur due to a deteriorating cork or issues while opening the bottle. Unlike sediment, cork fragments don't contribute to the flavour and should be removed. Here's how:
Regulations regarding buying and selling whisky vary widely by country and region, including age restrictions, taxes, and licensing requirements. It's important to be familiar with the laws in your country to avoid any legal issues. If you're planning to buy or sell whisky online, especially internationally, make sure you understand the shipping regulations and tax implications.
Networking with other whisky collectors and enthusiasts can enhance your enjoyment and knowledge of whisky. Join a local whisky club, and attend whisky tastings, festivals, and shows. Online forums, social media groups, and blogs are also excellent places to connect with other enthusiasts, share experiences, and learn from others. Remember, whisky collecting is not just about the drink itself, but also the community and shared experiences.
Building a whisky collection is an exciting journey of discovery and appreciation. It involves more than just buying bottles. It's about understanding the craft behind each whisky, appreciating its unique characteristics, and ultimately, enjoying the experience it provides.
While the road to becoming a seasoned collector is long and filled with learning, it's also filled with the joy of discovery, the thrill of the hunt for rare bottles, and the pleasure of sharing great whiskies with good friends. So raise a glass to your new endeavour.
Here's to the many wonderful drams that await you in the world of whisky collecting!
]]>Let's take a look at all these amazing bottles!
While finding high quality, yet affordable bourbons under $100, here are a few considerations to make sure you're getting the most bang for your buck.
Now it’s time to look at our list of 10 of the best bourbons under $100 in 2023!
Whether you're new to bourbon or an experienced connoisseur, there are plenty of quality bourbons under $100 in 2023 that you can enjoy. We hope this list helps you find a bottle that will satisfy your taste buds and keep you coming back for more!
So, cheers to good whiskey, and happy sipping!
Bourbon whiskey is a type of distilled spirit that originated in the United States and is made from corn, rye, and barley. It has a distinct flavour profile with notes of wood, spice, caramel, and fruit. Though there are many variations of bourbon whiskey on the market today, all bourbons typically fall into one of four categories: single barrel or small batch bourbons, traditional straight or blended bourbons, flavoured bourbons, and other specialty varieties.
Single barrel bourbons are those aged in a particular barrel designated for only one release; whereas small batch releases combine barrels to create a unique flavour blend. These two types tend to be more expensive than other kinds because they are limited in quantity. Generally, these bourbons offer flavours of vanilla, oak, caramel, and citrus fruits.
Traditional Straight or Blended Bourbons – These are the most common types of bourbon whiskey on the market and they come in a variety of different forms. The simplest type is straight bourbon which is made from grain mash that has been aged for at least two years in charred oak barrels.
These types of whiskeys get their distinct taste from added ingredients such as herbs, spices, and fruit. They are often produced to taste like a certain flavour such as peach or cherry and may even have colouring added to give them a unique look.
These include bourbons made from other grains such as wheat and rye; those with higher alcohol content (over 45%); and barrel-proof bourbons that are bottled without any additional water added for dilution. Speciality varieties tend to be more expensive than traditional straight or blended bourbons due to their rarity.
No matter which type of bourbon you’re sipping on, there’s something for everyone in the world of whiskey. Each type has its own unique characteristics that make it special – from the smooth, sweet flavours of single barrel or small batch bourbons to the bold, spicy nuances found in traditional blends. So go ahead and explore all the different types of bourbons on the market today to find one that best fits your taste!
When it comes to whiskey, you don’t have to break the bank to buy a quality bottle. There are plenty of great bourbons on the market under $50 that will satisfy your taste buds without breaking the bank. Here are five of our favourites:
No matter which one you choose, each of these bourbons offers exceptional value for the price. So go ahead and try them out - your taste buds won't be disappointed!
To learn more about whiskies gift ideas under $50, this article is a good resource: Top 10 best whiskey gift ideas under £50.
The world of whiskey doesn’t end with bourbons under $50. There are plenty of great bottles that cost over the fifty-dollar mark, and they offer some truly unique experiences for whiskey lovers who want to take their experience to the next level. Here are ten of our favourites:
No matter which one you choose, each of these bourbons will provide an unforgettable experience that’s sure to please even the most discerning whiskey connoisseurs. So go ahead and treat yourself to something special - your taste buds won't regret it!
For more ideas, here's another list of the best bourbons under $100.
Now that you’ve seen a selection of some of the best bourbons available, it’s time to pick your favourite. The options here range from the bold and flavourful Elijah Craig Single Barrel to the smooth and complex Jefferson's Reserve Very Old Straight Bourbon – each offering something unique for whiskey lovers to explore.
If you’re looking for something with an intense character, try out Elijah Craig's 20-Year Single Barrel or George T. Stagg. Both are aged in charred oak barrels for over a decade and deliver big notes of dark fruit, cinnamon, leather, tobacco, and more. For those who prefer a bourbon on the smoother side with intricate flavours of dried fruits and baking spices, Michter’s US*1 Small Batch Bourbon, 1792 Full Proof Bourbon, or Four Roses Limited Edition Small Batch are all excellent choices.
No matter which one you decide to go with, you can be sure that you’re getting the best of the best when it comes to bourbons. So grab a glass and get sipping.
Happy exploring! With so many unique styles for lovers of bourbon to explore, there is something special waiting for everyone. From bold and robust Elijah Craig 20-Year Single Barrel to smooth and subtle Parker’s Heritage Collection Barrel Finished Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey – each offering a unique whiskey experience. So pour yourself a glass and start exploring.
Here are 6 tips to help you make a decision:
Choose a bourbon that meets your taste preferences and budget, and you won’t be disappointed. Keep these tips in mind when selecting the perfect bottle for you - happy sipping!
This ultimate guide to the best bourbons under $100 in 2023 has certainly given those in search of an amazing craft spirit the opportunity to sample a wide variety of quality. From private selections and small batch releases to classic offerings from nationally renowned distilleries, there is something for everyone and every budget. Whether you are looking to impress someone special or simply want to sample some of the best bourbon available, this guide should provide those searching with plenty of excellent options that won't break the bank. From rich and oaky flavours, to smooth and sweet expressions, trying all these fantastic liquids may be a tall order but could also be quite an enjoyable journey too! With this helpful guide in hand, there's no excuse not to venture beyond your comfort zone on your next whiskey-tasting adventure!
Let us know your favourite bourbons in the comments below.
]]>Vodka and whiskey are two of the most popular alcoholic beverages in the world. Though they are both clear liquids, they couldn’t be more different. Let's explore the similarities and differences between vodka and whiskey so that you can make an informed decision about which one is right for you.
Vodka is a distilled spirit made from potatoes, wheat, corn, or rye. The distillation process removes impurities from the alcohol, resulting in a clean, crisp flavour. Vodka is typically bottled at 40% alcohol by volume (ABV) but can range from 37.5-50% ABV.
Whiskey is also a distilled spirit but is made from grain mash that has been fermented. The grain mash can be made from any type of grain, but the most common are barley, rye, wheat, and corn. The distillation process for whiskey removes impurities just like vodka but also gives it a distinct flavour due to the type of grain used in the mash as well as the ageing process. Whiskey is typically bottled at 40% ABV but can range from 40-46% ABV.
When it comes to taste, vodka is known for being neutral while whiskey can vary greatly in taste depending on the type of grain used and how long it has been aged. Vodka is typically served neat or with a mixer while whiskey can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or with a mixer.
So, what’s the bottom line? If you’re looking for a smooth spirit with a neutral taste, vodka is your best bet. If you want something with more flavour that can be enjoyed in different ways, then whiskey is the way to go.
When it comes to hosting a party, selecting the right type of alcohol can be a daunting task. Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a large celebration, having the right drinks will make all the difference. Here are some tips to help you choose the right type of alcohol for any occasion.
Vodka and whiskey can be used to mix a variety of cocktails that are perfect for all occasions. Here are some recipes to get you started:
No matter what type of cocktail you choose to make with vodka or whiskey, it’s important to remember to enjoy them responsibly! As always, drink in moderation – your health depends on it!
Some whiskies such as single-cask whisky are quite expensive because of their limited availability or rarity. Other factors that determine the price of whisky include the quality, age, production process, and popularity of a particular brand. Additionally, some whiskies carry an extra premium due to their reputation or history.
Location plays an important role in determining the price as there are different taxes and duties imposed on different types of whiskies depending on where they are sold.
To sum it up, the price of whisky depends on a variety of factors such as quality, age, production process, popularity, and location.
Here are some of the popular brands of vodka and whiskeys.
There are a number of things that you should know about when buying affordable bourbon online.
Ultimately, buying whiskies online can be an enjoyable experience if done right! With these tips in mind, you’ll be sure to get the best bang for your buck when shopping for whisky online.
TopWhiskies is a leading online retailer of whisky and other spirits. Check out our selection of some of the finest whiskies from around the world! From small-batch craft distilleries to classic brands, you'll find something special in our shop. Whether you're looking for a gift or simply treating yourself, TopWhiskies has something perfect for every occasion. Visit us today and let us help you find your perfect whisky!
Whisky is one of the most popular alcoholic beverages around the world and a great gift for any occasion. With the right tips, you can buy whisky online with confidence and get a great deal at the same time. Whether it’s a special bottle of single malt or a top-shelf blended whiskey, make sure to do your research and shop around before making your purchase. TopWhiskies offers an extensive selection of whiskies from some of the finest brands in the world, so be sure to check us out when you’re looking for something unique!
]]>
I spent my informative years in spirits working for Louis Dreyfus in Paris in the 90’s. It was here I learnt the secrets behind the production, supply and marketing the world over of every spirit imaginable and how to trade in it. However, in 1999 I sought to practice what I had learnt by setting up my own business. After a few years I realised, although not a company household name, from behind the curtain, we were in fact supporting the emergence of many different spirit brands and keeping large parts of the world happily supplied with a wide range of spirits, whiskies, rums, tequila, brandies, you name it!
With this in mind, and my knowledge of different distilleries across the world, I endeavoured to search out the best of what I believe is out there and bring it to you. To think this through I locked myself away in the office ‘mood room ‘and threw ideas around, sketched shapes on pads and listened to a lot of Blur.
I wanted people to trust me so I put my name on it, I agree it may seem a little arrogant, but I did not want to hide behind a company name I wished to put it out there with my stamp on it. I have drunk, blended, single malt, bourbon, ryes, Canadian, Japanese, Swedish, Indian, Irish, English whiskies the world over and enjoyed their distinct regional flavours that mark it out as special and peculiar. Yet, I believe passionately that Scotland truly produces the best style of whisky in the world, so I wanted to start there. With the company name, and spirit focus in mind how was I to sell it?!
Research took time. Getting to know the consumer is difficult, more so today than ever! The speed at which brand loyalties change influenced by people seemingly without more knowledge that how to post things on social media but followed by millions is extraordinary, but we move with the times! Yet, when condensed down and noise removed, what consumers really wanted was the real thing: Genuine top quality British spirits bottled in UK, sold by a passionate advocate from the UK, with strong British branding.
And so in late 2016 I emerged from my self-enforced creative hibernation with a clear plan in my mind to create a range of spirits that followed 3x key principles:
After a period of advice and sample seeking, my team and I found and selected the first six whiskies which would become the Scots Gold and Canmore whisky ranges. Then, shortly after a journey to Iceland, the Gin would be decided upon (another story!).
It has not been an easy few years and launching in the current market has been fraught but I believe when you try any of my spirits you will appreciate the work and passion involved! I have always said there is nothing better than a damn good drink in the company of friends and family and I am delighted that my spirits offer just that.
]]>Here are my top 10 best whisky, and whiskey, recommendations for under £50 in 2023. These are all unique whiskies from independent brands. And, they're all great whiskies for less than £50. A mix of indie bottlers and small distilleries, the kind of passionate brands I love.
I hope you enjoy my top 10 whisky recommendations under £50, and perhaps choose one to try yourself! Here is the list, starting with the cheapest first.
My first recommendation is Prologue, a small batch, artisan blended malt by Chapter 7. It's bottled at 49% natural colour and non-chill-filtered, a great natural whisky. Prologue is an excellent entry-level whisky that comes to life when you let it breathe for a bit. It's a whisky that's sweet, earthy, grassy and spicy. You can buy Chapter 7's Prologue here for £34. They also have a peated version here for £48.
Lakes Distillery is one of my favourite distilleries. They have a unique approach to whisky-making. There are a few ranges of whisky from the Lakes. The One Collection is their range of blended whiskies, and there are five different expressions. All five are great, but the one I've picked for my Best Whiskey Recommendations Under £50 is the Sherry Cask Finish. Bottled at 46.6%, you can buy Lakes The One Sherry Cask Finish here for £43.95.
Single Note was founded by Rick van Diepen. Single malt scotch whisky and jazz music are Rick's passions. Rick has loved whisky since the 2005, when he joined his University's whisky society and visited distilleries across Scotland. Caol Ila distillery was his favourite, and it's one of my favourite distilleries too. This is a superb cask strength 12 year old expression, double-aged in ex bourbon casks. You can get Single Note's Caol Ila 12 Year Old here for £49.95.
Brig O'Perth is an historic brand. It was first blended and bottled by Perth wine merchant and grocer Matthew Gloag & Son in early 1896. It has been rediscovered by independent bottler The Whisky Cellar. It has a high malt content from Highland distilleries, a proud sign of quality. It has been aged for at least 14 years, before being bottled at 46.7% natural colour and without chill filtration. You can find Brig O'Perth here for £44.95.
Old Perth is a range of small-batch sherry cask matured blends. The expression I've chosen for my Best Whiskey Recommendations Under £50 is their Cask Strength release. It won Silver at the International Wine and Spirits Competition and is a cracking value cask strength sherried whisky for considerably less than £50. You can buy Old Perth Cask Strength for £41.95.
Mac-Talla is a range of Islay single malts from one of the old whisky making families, The Morrisons. The range is excellent and includes Mac-Talla Terra, a 46% expression, at £42.95. It's the cask strength expression, Mac-Talla Mara, I'm putting forward for my Best Whisky Recommendations Under £50. Bottled at 56% natural colour and without chill-filtration it's a superb dram. You can buy Mac-Talla Mara here for £48.95.
Murray McDavid is an independent bottler of scotch whiskies. All their releases are either single cask or small batch. Peatside is one of their small-batch releases. This vatting combines two single malts, one heavily peated and the other creamy and sweet. They further matured these whiskies in fresh Pedro Ximènez Sherry and bourbon casks. Bottled at a generous 50%, you can pick up Murray McDavid's Peatside here for £47.95.
Sailor's Home is a range of artisan Irish whiskeys. They are made by a legend in the world of Irish whiskey, Dr Jack O'Sé. The collection includes The Journey at £35.95, The Haven at £42.95, and Caravelle at £57.95. But the expression I've chosen for my Top 10 Best Whiskey Recommendations Under £50 is Horizon. This award-winning whiskey is 10 years old, aged in American bourbon barrels and Barbados rum casks. You can buy a bottle of Sailor's Home Horizon here for £49.95.
Càrn Mòr release consistently great quality, small batch, releases at very fair price points. Their standard bottling strength is 47.5%, so you're getting a good ABV, and they always bottled natural colour and non chill filter. But the real joy of the Càrn Mòr range is the breadth and depth of releases available - dozens and dozens of distilleries, and a whole host of interesting cask types. Fitting nicely within my £50 limit for this article is Càrn Mòr's Longmorn 2014 here, for £49.95.
Heroes and Heretics is an independent bottler. They have a range of whiskies and rums, both single cask releases and small batch. They vary in price, but my pick for the 10 best whiskies under £50 is their Classic Series Speyside. It's a 12 year old single malt whisky bottled at a generous 51%. You can pick up a bottle of Heroes and Heretics Classic Series Speyside here for £49.95.
What whiskey under £50 would you recommend? I'd love to hear your suggestions. Let me know in the comments below.
Cheers, Ed
In this blog I'd like to take a closer look at what we mean by sherry cask whisky, and some of the key styles you may come across. It's a fascinating area. While many whiskies carry the sherry tag, there are many subcategories and nuances within this style.
Sherry is a fortified wine made from white grapes in Spain. The key sherry producing Spanish region is Andalusia. It starts life much like a wine. But after fermentation grape spirit is added to the base liquid. This increases the alcohol content, earning it the name "fortified" wine.
Sherry cask whisky, also known as sherry-matured whisky, is a type of whisky that has been aged in casks that previously held sherry. The casks are typically made of European oak and have been used to age sherry for several years before being used to age whisky. The ageing process imparts unique flavours and characteristics to the whisky, such as nuttiness, dried fruit, and spice notes. Sherry cask whisky can be made from malted barley, wheat, rye, or corn, and can be distilled in a variety of ways. The ageing process can vary in length, but it is typically aged for at least three years. Sherry cask whisky can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or with a splash of water, and can also be paired with a variety of foods such as cheese, chocolate and game dishes.
Sherry cask whisky has a distinct and complex flavour profile that can vary depending on the type of sherry used to season the cask, the length of ageing, and the type of whisky. Typically, sherry cask whisky has a rich and full-bodied taste with notes of dried fruit, such as raisins and apricots, and nuttiness, such as almonds and hazelnuts. The sherry cask also imparts a certain sweetness, with a hint of vanilla, caramel, and honey. The oak from the cask gives it a hint of spice and a characteristic dryness. Some sherry cask whisky can also have dark chocolate, coffee, and even leather notes. The finish can be long and warming with a distinct sherry influence. Overall, the flavour profile of sherry cask whisky is complex and layered, making it a favourite among whisky fans.
This style of whisky was discovered somewhat by accident. Historically, sherry was a popular import into the UK. It arrived 'in bulk' in wooden casks, and was decanted into bottles when bought by customers. This left the empty casks as a by-product. Some canny soul saw an opportunity to reuse those empty sherry casks, rather than let them go to waste. And while it may have started as simple convenience, people soon realised the whisky was actually enhanced by those sherry casks.
At it's simplest, a sherry cask whisky is made be ageing whisky in a wooden cask that has previously held sherry. Sherry casks can be used to make whisky in a few ways; three common approaches are:
As with whisky, there are lots of kinds of sherry. Each has its own character, and each imparts it's own influence onto a whisky. The two most common sherries used in whisky making are Oloroso and Pedro Ximénez.
Here's a list of the types of sherries used to make whiskies, and the effect they have on whisky's flavour:
There are several ways to tell if a whisky has been aged in a sherry cask, but the most definitive method is by reading the label or packaging of the bottle. If a whisky is labelled as "sherry cask matured" or "sherry cask finished" it means that the whisky has been aged in casks that previously held sherry. If the label doesn't mention anything about sherry, it doesn't necessarily mean that the whisky wasn't aged in a sherry cask. Some distilleries use sherry casks as part of their ageing process without mentioning it on the label.
Another way to tell if a whisky has been aged in a sherry cask is by tasting it. Sherry cask whisky will have distinct and complex flavours such as dried fruit, nuttiness, and sweetness, with a hint of vanilla, caramel, and honey. Additionally, it will have a characteristic dryness and a hint of spice from the oak. The finish can be long and warming with a distinct sherry influence.
It's also worth noting that sometimes distilleries use sherry casks to finish the whisky after ageing it in other types of casks. This can also impart sherry notes to the whisky but the intensity will be less than a sherry cask matured whisky.
Sherry cask whiskies can be used in whisky cocktails, just like any other type of whisky. The unique and complex flavour profile of sherry cask whisky can add depth and complexity to a wide range of cocktails.
One popular cocktail that uses sherry cask whisky is the Old Fashioned. The Old Fashioned is made by muddling sugar and bitters together, adding a splash of water and then pouring in sherry cask whisky. The sherry cask whisky's dried fruit and nuttiness notes complement the sweetness of the sugar and the bitter notes of the bitters, creating a well-balanced and complex drink.
Another popular cocktail that can be made with sherry cask whisky is the Rob Roy. This cocktail is similar to a Manhattan, but instead of using bourbon, it uses sherry cask whisky. The sherry cask whisky's unique flavour profile pairs well with the sweet vermouth and the Angostura bitters, creating a smooth and rich drink.
Sherry cask whisky can also be used in other cocktails like Whisky Sour, Whisky Highball, and even in a classic Champagne cocktail. However, it is important to keep in mind that the intensity and complexity of sherry cask whisky flavour can overwhelm some other ingredients in the cocktail, so you’ll need to experiment and find the right balance between the ingredients.
Sherry cask whisky pairs well with a wide range of foods, including dark chocolate, dried fruit, nuts, and cheese. Rich and savoury dishes such as meats, game, and stews can also complement the flavours of sherry cask whisky.
Sherry cask whisky can also be paired with spicy dishes like Indian and Mexican cuisine, the sweetness and nuttiness of the sherry cask whisky will balance the heat and flavours of the spices.
In general, sherry cask whisky pairs well with food that has similar flavours and aromas to the whisky, such as dried fruits, nuts, and sweetness. Also, the high alcohol content of sherry cask whisky can make it a good pairing with rich, savoury, and spicy dishes.
Sherry cask whiskies are delicious. If you haven't tried any yet, I'd highly recommend exploring this style. You can find our favourite sherry cask whiskies here. If you are a fan of sherry cask whiskies, let me know what your favourite is in the comments below.
If you enjoyed reading this article, here are three more blogs you may enjoy:
]]>A great gift in their own right, or the perfect addition to a bundle of presents, Chocisky have a range of special chocolates each designed to be paired with a particular Scotch whisky region. They also have chocolates to pair with English, Welsh and Japanese whiskies. Presented in a smart tin containing 50 to 60 tasting disks, they cost £8 each. You can find Chocisky here.
One of our favourite whisky books, The Malt Whisky Yearbook by Ingvar Ronde is a must-have for any whisky lover. It’s an annual book and the latest 2023 edition, the 17th, is full of the latest information on hundreds of whisky distilleries from all over the world. It includes feature articles written by whisky experts, details of great whisky shops and websites (including yours truly!) and new whiskies. Priced at £14.95, you can find The Malt Whisky Yearbook 2023 here.
The Ooshky water jug is a very useful, and rather cute, gem. It's perfect for adding water, drop by drop, to a dram of whisky. The name Ooshky is a play on the word Uisge, which is Gaelic for water. It forms part of the phrase Uisge Beatha which means water of life, the origins of the name whisky. Ooshky is a beautiful porcelain ceramic jug, made in small numbers by a passionate small business owner, Scott Deas who designed the jug himself. They cost £28 each and you can find Ooshky Water Jug for whisky here.
The Dram Team are our favourite whisky subscription club, you might have read our past review of The Dram Team. Each of their tasting sets includes five 25ml drams, and an extra special ‘Sixth Dram’ 10ml measure of a premium whisky; they’re a perfect way for dad to explore new whiskies. Even better news is that TopWhiskies readers get a 20% discount off their first box, making the first one £23.99, and then £29.99 for the monthly subscription thereafter. These prices include UK shipping. Find out more about The Dram Team here.
This is a perfect whiskey gift if your father regularly drinks strong, cask strength whiskies. Uisge Source bottle Scottish water from private springs in the three major scotch producing regions of Scotland: Highlands, Speyside, and Islay. These spring waters share the same mineral makeup as the waters used to distill the whisky at the distilleries. This makes these waters the best for pairing with cask strength whiskies which your father may want to reduce in strength to bring out further flavours in the whisky. This Uisge Source set includes three regional waters. First, there's a hard, mineral-rich water for Highland whisky. Second, a soft, low-mineral water for Speyside whisky. And third, a water with higher natural acidity for Islay whisky. The set also includes three pipettes for adding just the right amount of water to a dram, drop by drop, and a smart presentation board. You can find the Uisge Source Connoisseur Set here for £35.
Secret Spirits scotch tasting sets are a great whiskey gift for Father’s Day, including five very premium whiskies, including one that is 30 years old! Very special. Each of the samples is 50ml in size, which is a double dram; a large measure for dad, or enough to share if he’s feeling generous (... maybe with you?!) The Secret Spirits sets include some of the best whiskies out there, and a wide range of independent whisky bottlers. You can find Secret Spirits Whisky Tasting Set here for £29.95, with a special offer of 20% off if you buy two or more.
My favourite bottle club, Summerton Whisky Club delivers a unique whisky to your father's door every other month. These aren’t typical whiskies you may find in the supermarket. These are special, unique, whiskies. And, while it is a more expensive gift idea, each individual delivery works out as £50 (including UK delivery). So for £150, your loved one will receive three superb whiskies delivered over the course of 6 months. You can find out more about Summerton Whisky Club here .
Firkin Whisky is an independent bottler with four awesome whiskies. Each expression is a limited edition single cask release; and all four are matured in Firkin’s special double-wood casks, custom made for them with staves from two separate casks (American oak and French oak) combined into a new cask which is seasoned with a ‘soulmate’ wine. There’s Firkin Ten, Firkin 49, Firkin Rare, Firkin Islay to choose from, so there’ll definitely be one that’s perfectly suited to your dad’s tastes. Find out more about Firkin Whisky Co here.
Imperial Tribute is a very special whisky, made by the man who created Johnnie Walker Blue Label. So, if your father likes the finer things in life, this is definitely the whiskey gift for him. This premium whisky is a superb mix of richness, spice and complexity. It is richly wooded, with a dark Madeira spice that melts into a sumptuous middle and finishes with just a hint of smoke. Every bottle of Imperial Tribute is personalised by hand and beautifully presented; your dad’s name is printed on the bottle’s label, and you can include a personal message for Father's Day on the certificate and gift card that come with it. Get your Imperial Tribute for Father’s Day here for £159.
This is pretty epic, and is bound to cement your position as favourite spouse/son/daughter. This mega box of whisky from Secret Spirits includes 25 drams, each measuring a generous 50ml. I don’t want to spoil the surprise, but I can tell you the range of whiskies in each box is superb: age statements up to 30 years old, single cask expressions, rare names and independent brands. And the presentation is excellent; they are big, bold, quality sets; each whisky is housed behind a little door (think advent calendar style), so your dad can work through them all in turn. The set also includes a booklet for tasting notes, a glass, and a pin. Buy your Secret Spirits tasting set here.
We hope this guide has been helpful, and do feel free to email Ed if you need any further recommendations, for example on our range of whiskies. And, to all the parent’s out there: keep up the great work.
Slainte, Ed
]]>Thanks for joining us, Selim. How did you get into whisky?
My first distillery visit was an amazing experience. I was 16, and my grandfather took me on a trip across Scotland, visiting many distilleries over ten days. That trip left quite a mark on me and a real appreciation for whisky and its rich heritage. It was the spark that led me to become an independent bottler.
Your nickname is "Malt Chaser". How did you get this nickname and what does it mean to you?
The nickname "Malt Chaser" reflects my hunt for unique and special whiskies. It's not just about finding rare bottles; it's about discovering the stories and characters behind each cask. It's always an exciting chase, and one that fuels my passion and curiosity.
And how about the name Chapter 7, where did that come from?
The name "Chapter 7" was inspired by literature and the seven ages of man, as described in William Shakespeare's monologue from "As You Like It." The monologue outlines the stages of life a person goes through, and I feel whisky goes through similar stages. From its infancy to its prime, each stage of whisky's life tells a different story. The name "Chapter 7" represents this idea. Each cask, each bottle is a chapter in a larger narrative, capturing the spirit at its prime and telling the story of a whisky in its most exciting stage.
Independent bottlers bring a unique dimension to the whisky industry. How do you see Chapter 7's role in the industry?
Independent bottlers like Chapter 7 add diversity to the whisky world. We provide access to unique expressions and rare finds that might otherwise go unnoticed. By bottling single casks and crafting small batches, we offer whisky enthusiasts a chance to explore new flavours and stories. It's about pushing boundaries and offering a fresh perspective on whisky.
What do you look for in a whisky to bottle?
The selection process is a combination of intuition, taste, and knowledge. I'm drawn to lesser-known whiskies and distilleries, and I let the whisky tell its story through its flavour. The history of a cask adds depth and context, but taste is always the guiding factor.
I don't necessarily aim for a specific taste profile. Instead, I focus on variety. When bottling a batch, I choose a mix that offers something for everyone, both taste-wise and price-wise. From peated Scotch to Sherry cask finishes, I try to present a diverse range that appeals to different preferences. It's about embracing the uniqueness of each cask and creating a collection that resonates with a wide audience.
You sometimes bottle "ideal strength", can you tell us more about this?
The use of "ideal strength" came from my feeling that full cask strength whisky can sometimes be too strong for some drinkers. By slowly diluting the whisky to a level where it performs well without overpowering the palate, we create a more accessible and enjoyable experience. It's about finding the perfect balance that showcases the whisky's character.
What can whisky fans expect from Chapter 7 in the future?
The future holds exciting possibilities. The Monologue range will continue to spotlight single casks, while the Anecdotes will feature small batches of experimental blends. Our new line, the Prologue, will focus on young whiskies with exceptional character. Each release offers a unique exploration of whisky, and we'll continue to expand our collections.
Finally, Selim, your journey from a young boy visiting distilleries with your grandfather to becoming the Malt Chaser is inspiring. What advice would you give to someone looking to start in whisky?
Follow your curiosity and never be afraid to take risks. Passion is a powerful motivator, and if you're driven by something you truly love, the journey becomes an adventure. Stay true to your vision, embrace challenges, and never stop chasing what excites you.
Selim, thank you for sharing your insights, passion, and the incredible story of Chapter 7. We look forward to the continued adventures of the Malt Chaser.
Thank you for having me. Here's to more discoveries and great whisky!
]]>The Dram Team deliver a curated whisky tasting set to your door once a month. There are five normal size drams, 25ml each. Plus, an extra special bonus dram, 10ml of a premium whisky. The boxes include information and tasting notes for each dram, so you can enjoy your own tasting from the comfort of home. A subscription costs £29.99 a month, which includes postage. TopWhiskies readers get 20% off their first Dram Team box here. The Dram Team get my vote for the best tasting set subscription box you'll find.
The Summerton Whisky Club search out unusual whiskies and deliver a full size bottle to you every other month. These aren't whiskies you'll find in the supermarket. They're unique, carefully sourced, and likely to introduce you to new brands and styles. And, as a club, there's a great community around Summerton. Exclusive events, virtual evenings, and even festivals. Each delivery costs £50 every other month, which includes both the bottle and postage. It's superb value, as the bottles have retail prices above £50 (often well above £50). Summerton Whisky Club are my go-to service for a full bottle subscription service.
Whisky Pioneer will deliver you a 50ml whisky sample every month. At 50ml, that's a generous double dram. They focus on hidden gems you might not have come across - distilleries and indie bottlers, new and old. It's the perfect way to discover new favourites, at a very affordable £7 a month, including postage. As well as the whiskies themselves, I love the environmental ethos at Whisky Pioneer. Their sample bottles are made from Prevented Ocean Plastic. This is recycled plastic collected from coastal areas at risk of ocean pollution. Once you've enjoyed your whisky, you can either recycle the bottle, or collect and return 10 for a free bonus dram. Whisky Pioneer are my favourite single sample subscription.
You can't go wrong with any of these whisky subscriptions. Interesting and unusual whiskies, delivered to your door by passionate small businesses. Great value, great services, great whiskies. They're flexible so, if you change your mind, you can cancel them any time, not that you'll want to. So, give one, or even a couple, of these services a try today. You're bound to discover excellent new whiskies.
You may also be interested in our list of UK whisky clubs, to find gatherings near you.
]]>That's the point of an advent calendar, right?
But, did you sneak down in the morning to open your gifts before everyone woke up? Are you Bart Simpson? Well, if you can’t wait, you can see the 25 whiskies below.
But don’t say we didn’t warn you.
Single Cask Nation MacDuff 14 Year Old
Wemyss Malts Treacle Chest Blended Malt
Lost Distillery Company Auchnagie Classic Blended Malt Scotch Whisky
Secret Spirits Glen Moray 9 Year Old Single Malt
Secret Spirits Craigellachie Single Malt Whisky 12 Year Old
Exclusive Malts Regional Series Islay
Adelphi Breath of Speyside “Blended” (teaspooned) Malt Scotch Whisky 11 Year Old
Old Malt Cask Balmenach 13 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky
A.D. Rattray Glen Moray 10 Year Old Single Malt
Secret Spirits Royal Brackla 11 Year Old Single Malt
Wemyss Malts Vanilla Burst Blended Malt
Lost Distillery Company Stratheden Classic Blended Malt
Auchinderom Peated (Glenglassaugh) Sauterne Cask 7 Year Old
A.D. Rattray Knockdhu 9 Year Old Single Malt
Secret Spirits Caol Ila 8 Year Old Single Malt
Wemyss Malts Nectar Grove Limited Edition Blended Malt
Secret Spirits Glentauchers 10 Year Old Single Malt
Secret Spirits Glenallachie 9 Year Old Single Malt
A.D. Rattray Williamson (Laphroaig) 13 year old
Single Cask Nation Stones of Stenness Orkney 18 Year Old
Hunter Laing Old Malt Cask Inchgower 25 Year Old Single Malt
Lost Distillery Company Towiemore Archivist Blended Malt
A.D. Rattray North British 30 Year Old Single Grain Scotch Whisky
Secret Spirits Inchmurrin 21 Year Old Single Malt
A.D. Rattray Glen Grant 30 Year Old Single Malt
]]>
That's the point of an advent calendar, right?
But, did you sneak down in the morning to open your gifts before everyone woke up? Are you Bart Simpson? Well, if you can’t wait, you can see the 25 whiskies below.
But don’t say we didn’t warn you.
Tamdhu 18yo - Old Malt Cask
Spice King Batch Strength - Wemyss
2009 MacDuff 7yo - A.D. Rattray
Dalaruan Classic - Lost Distillery Co
Caol Ila 8yo - Secret Spirits
2009 Glenallachie 8yo - Samaroli
12 Year Old Blended Malt - Ainneamh
Fettercairn 2006 - 11yo - A.D. Rattray
The Hive Batch Strength - Wemyss
Archivist Jericho - Lost Distillery Co.
Samaroli Islay 2017 edition - Samaroli
1997 Glenrothes 19yo - Secret Spirits
Shetland Blended Malt Batch 3 - Shetland Reel
Glen Elgin 1995 21 yo - A.D. Rattray
Peat Chimney Batch Strength - Wemyss
Lossit Classic - Lost Distillery Co.
1997 MacDuff Sherry 19 Years Old - Samaroli
1997 Inchgower Undisclosed 19yo - Secret Spirits
2011 Williamson (Laphroaig) 5yo - A.D. Rattray
1991 Cameronbridge 25yo - Exclusive Malts
Glen Keith 20yo - Old Malt Cask
1995 Samaroli Spey Tormore and Alt A Bhainne 21yo - Samaroli
Tormore 21yo - Single Cask Nation
1988 Tamnavulin 29 yo - A.D. Rattray
1987 Invergordon 30yo - Samaroli
Sounds good right?
You can get the 4th Edition Premium Scotch Whisky Advent Calendar here!
]]>That's the point of an advent calendar, right?
But, did you sneak down in the morning to open your gifts before everyone woke up? Are you Bart Simpson? Well, if you can’t wait, you can see the 25 whiskies below.
But don’t say we didn’t warn you.
18yo Speyside - Secret Spirits
Craigellachie "Barrista"s Dram" - Wemyss Malts
Shetland Reel Blended Malt Scotch Whisky - The Malt Whisky Company
Jerico Christmas Pudding Blended Malt Scotch Whisky - The Lost Distillery Company
Ledaig 9yo - A. D. Rattray
Undisclosed Distillery Highland 18yo - Ainneamh
2008 Allt a Bhainne Single Malt 8 Year Old - Samaroli
Glenrothes 8yo - The Malt Whisky Company
2006 Loch Lomond 10yo - Single Cask Nation
2007 Glenallachie 8yo - Secret Spirits
Kiln Embers Blended Malt Scotch Whisky - Wemyss Malts
Gerston Blended Malt Scotch Whisky - The Lost Distillery
1991 Auchroisk 25yo - Secret Spirits
Speyside 18yo - Ainneamh
MacDuff 16yo - The Malt Whisky Company
Samaroli Islay 8yo - Samaroli
Invergordon 26yo - Wemyss Malts
2005 Croftengea 11yo - Secret Spirits
1995 Samaroli Spey 20yo - Samaroli
Glenrothes 27 Year Old - Wemyss Malts
1988 Cambus 27 year old - Adelphi Independent Bottlers
Peaty Blended Malt 20 year old - Samaroli
28 Year Old Bunnahabhain - Single Cask Nation
Samaroli Blended Scotch 1980 aged for 34 years
Sounds good right?
You can get the 3rd Edition Premium Scotch Whisky Advent Calendar here!
]]>That's the point of an advent calendar, right?
But, did you sneak down in the morning to open your gifts before everyone woke up? Are you Bart Simpson? Well, if you can’t wait, you can see the 25 whiskies below.
But don’t say we didn’t warn you.
1999 Tomintoul 15yo - A. D. Rattray
Craigmills (Glenglassaugh) Sauterne - Malt Whisky Company
1996 Glentauchers & Benriach 19yo - Samaroli
Velvet Fig - Wemyss Malts
2006 Caol Ila 9yo - A. D. Rattray
Tullibardine Bourbon - Malt Whisky Company
1997 Strathisla 18yo - Samaroli
2002 Craigellachie 12yo "Dark Treacle Fondant" - Wemyss
2007 Glen Moray 8yo - A. D. Rattray
2006 Islay 9yo - Samaroli
1993 Glenrothes 21yo "Kumquat Cluster" - Wemyss
Bank Note 5yo - A. D. Rattray
2008 Undisclosed Islay Distillery 7yo - Single Cask Nation
2008 Glenallachie, Glentauchers & MacDuff 7yo - Samaroli
1991 Invergordon 24yo - A. D. Rattray
1996 Benriach 19yo - Samaroli
2008 Craigellachie 6yo - A. D. Rattray
1993 Auchroisk 22yo - A. D. Rattray
1995 Miltonduff 20yo - Samaroli
1988 Glenrothes 25yo "Aromatic Orange Tobacco" - Wemyss
1992 Glentauchers 22yo - A. D. Rattray
1994 Tobermory 21yo - Malt Whisky Company
1988 Bunnahabhain 27yo - A. D. Rattray
1983 Dailuaine "Old Spiced Balm" 29yo - Wemyss
1984 Linkwood 30yo - Samaroli
Sounds good right?
You can get the 2nd Edition Premium Scotch Whisky Advent Calendar here!
]]>Whiskey subscription clubs are a great way to explore new whiskies. Any whiskey club offers you the chance to try whisky you may not have come across. And, in the case of postal whiskey subscription services, you can sample whiskies in the comfort of your home. And whiskey subscriptions tend to be good value. They're far cheaper than sampling lots of whiskies at a bar, or buying many full-size bottles.
In 2023 there are now a good number of mail-order scotch whisky subscription boxes in the UK. For a monthly fixed cost, these clubs will select a range of the best whiskies and post them to your door. Easy, and not expensive. Here's my list of the six of the best monthly scotch whisky subscriptions in the UK for 2023. In no particular order these are:
The Dram Team look to bring out-of-the-ordinary whisky tastings right to your door. You can read our full review of The Dram Team here. But in summary they have a variety of subscription models, including: limited edition single boxes; a one-month subscription; quarterly; half-annual; and, annual. Each box includes five 25ml samples, a sixth 10ml sample of a super premium whisky, and tasting notes for all six drams. You can read our review of one of their boxes, the Glen Collection, here. A single month will normally cost you £29.99, but TopWhiskies readers get 20% off the cost of their first delivery! Visit the site using this link to get your discount now.
The Summerton Club are one of our favourites, offering a slightly different model to the monthly dram delivery. In this case, they send you a full bottle (yes, you read that right, a full normal size bottle) of whisky every other month - so six bottles a year. The Summerton Club is priced at £50 every other month, to chime with the bottle deliveries. The whiskies they pick aren’t those you’d find in the supermarket - they search out unique and rare whiskies, off the beaten track, often from independent bottlers. And having found them, they offer them at that £50 (every other month) price point - including P&P. Unbelievable deal.
OK, so technically this isn't a subscription service as such - because you have to order each set one by one, whenever you want one. But, brought you by the stars behind Milroy's of Soho, Drams To Your Door have some fantastic three-measure (30ml) flights. The sets start from £20, and go up to £190 for a trio of 40 year old whiskies. But there are plenty to choose from within the £20 to £40 range.
Whisky Pioneer is a great club that delivers a 50ml dram to your door every month. They focus on delivering great quality whisky, in an environmentally sustainable way. Their bottles are made from recycled plastic collected from coastal areas at risk of ocean plastic pollution. And, once you've enjoyed your dram the bottles are entirely recyclable once again. Great value at only £7 a month if you subscribe for a year, and return 10 empty bottles to get a free dram.
Remember that joy when, as a kid, your mum handed you a squeezy pouch of fruit juice on a hot summer's day? Well, you'll get that same joy, this time as a grown-up, when Whisky Me, of Dragon's Den fame, send you a squeezy pouch of delicious whisky - whatever the weather. Priced at just £7.95 a month (or £7.00 if you sign up for a year's subscription), Whisky-Me will send you a 50ml pouch of rare or exclusive whisky - from the packaging, through the free postage, to the delicious dram, Whisky Me is set up to make you feel that joy once a month.
From the team behind Master of Malt and Drinks By The Dram, Pour & Sip deliver 5 drams to your door once a month (or, once every other month if you'd like them a little less frequently). For anyone who has tried Drinks By The Dram, you'll recognise their characteristic wax-sealed minis. The boxes cost £29.99, which includes UK postage.
All of these are great options. I have three favourites. My favourite whiskey of the month club is Whisky Pioneer. It's a great way to sample a new whiskey every month. I think the best whiskey tasting club is The Dram Team. They'll pick six whiskies for you to try every month. And my favourite bottle club is Summerton. Not quite every month, as they work every-other-month. But, six times a year they'll send you a full bottle of a unique whiskey.
Which of these scotch clubs takes your fancy? Or are you already a member of a whiskey club, virtual or otherwise? I'd love to hear, so please do leave me a comment below. And, if you'd like to read my personal favourite, here's an article about the best monthly whisky subscription club in the UK here. If you want to join a local whisky tasting club, read my article about whisky clubs in the UK here.
Cheers! Ed
Beyond these three main ingredients, there are three further factors at play. They don't meet the traditional definition of an 'ingredient', but they are key to developing a whisky's flavour. These are: oak casks, time, and peat.
Let's look at these ingredients in greater detail.
Malted barley is the source of sugar that the yeast consumes to produce alcohol. It is also one of the key contributors to flavour.
The type of barley used has changed over the years. This change is the result of farming, and developing crops that produce higher yields. In simple terms: more modern crops produce more grains, which means more sugar to create a greater amount of alcohol when fermented.
Heritage barley types used in the past include Oxbridge, Prisma, Chariot and Golden Promise. As lower-yield varieties, these are not commonly used today. However, as new artisan distilleries look for heritage crops to revive and experiment with, they may yet see a revival.
The most common varieties of barley used today are Belgravia, Concerto, Propino, Quench and Shuffle. The barley can be grown anywhere, the Scotch Whisky Association doesn't state that it has to be Scottish barley. That said, one of the emerging trends that artisan whisky distilleries are adopting to set themselves apart from the competition is to source their barley locally - even to grow it themselves. This "field to bottle" control and transparency helps create a unique, quality whisky.
Modern barley varieties being experimented with in whisky include Moonshine, Odyssey, Chronicle and Overture. As farmers look for barley varieties that are sustainable, hardy, and high-yield, we can expect the types of barley to slowly evolve over time. More variety then gives distillers more choice as to what they use to make their whiskies.
Malted barley is created through a process known as 'malting'. The grains of barley are carefully dampened and laid out on a warm floor. They are then left to germinate - to start growing. As the grain of barley starts to grow, it begins breaking down its store of sugar. It is that sugar which feeds the yeast during the fermentation. Before the barley grows too much, its growth is stopped by heating the grain - and killing the germination. This ensures enough sugar is left for fermentation.
Making whisky is a water-intensive process. You need a lot of water. So it's no coincidence that whisky distilleries are usually found near springs or rivers. Particularly historic distilleries. As an ingredient, water can be used at three key points in making whisky, during fermentation, before filling casks, and at bottling.
Added to the crushed malted barley to create a 'wash', which is then fermented into 'wort'. Wort is like a beer, which can then be distilled to create new make spirit, the starting point for single malt scotch whisky.
Added to the new make distillate, to bring the ABV of the spirit down to an appropriate level for filling casks. Whether water is added, and if so how much is used, depends on the distillery's chosen filling strength. To give you a rough idea, new make spirit is usually around 68% ABV. Water can then be added to bring the spirit down to 63.5% before a cask is filled.
Added to the matured single malt scotch whisky, before it is bottled. Most whiskies on the market are sold at a reduced bottling strength. 40% ABV is the strength you will see the most often. Mid-range strengths are 46-49%. But unless the whisky is bottled at natural cask strength, by definition at least some water has been added to bring the ABV down.
Because water is such a key ingredient in making single malt scotch whisky, where that water comes from can be a key consideration. Many distilleries will protect their water source, trying to gain exclusivity over it. It becomes part of their heritage, their story, and their marketing. For example, sister distilleries Glenfiddich and Balvenie who draw water from the Robbie Dhu springs.
The logic is that the minerals in the water will effect the fermentation process, influencing the flavour profile. Given the distillation process, and recognising the major impact the maturation phase, experts are divided on how important the water source truly is. But certainly purists will argue it is at least one of the variables in creating flavour.
Yeast is a fungus. A friendly fungus - humans have used yeast for thousands and thousands of years. It plays a key part in making bread. And, it plays a key part in making alcohol. From beer and cider, to wine, and to whisky - yeast is crucial.
You don't need to add a lot of yeast. Around 2 to 2.5% of the wash volume will be enough for the magic to happen. Once added, the yeast feeds off the sugars present in the malt barley wash to create alcohol and flavour compounds during fermentation. The yeast used during fermentation needs to be able to:
All the types of yeast used in making whisky come from one species: Saccharomyces Cerevisiae. There are different types of yeast that distillers can choose to use, within this species. Most distillers will use a combination of two styles: brewer yeasts and distillers yeasts. By using a combination of the two, they can ensure they use all the sugar in the wash (maximising alcohol) while also producing desirable flavours.
Fermentation is when a whisky is born. Distillation is where a whisky gains its strength and clarity. But maturation is where the whisky's flavours fully develop.
After distillation, a whisky is clear and colourless. It does have flavour and aroma, and high-quality new make spirit can be delicious. But, put side by side with an aged whisky, it won't have the same depth and breadth of flavour. And, it may be less refined - with more prickle and alcohol heat.
The maturation phase adds flavour, broadens dimensions, and smooths any rough edges. And this maturation phase happens in wooden barrels. The Scotch Whisky Authority regulates that these have to be specifically oak casks. But a range of sizes and types of whisky cask are allowed.
There are two main species of oak used in scotch whisky casks. American oak, Quercus Alba, and European oak, Quercus Rober or Quercus Patraea. American oak softens whisky, and adds notes of vanilla and a creamy character. European oak has a greater wood flavour, with added spice and a dry character.
Looking briefly beyond Scotch whisky, other woods are used. Mizunara oak, Quercus Mongolica, is prized for Japanese whisky. And yes, woods other than oak can be used. Not for scotch whisky, but for other categories. Method and Madness in Ireland have used a wide range of weird and wonderful woods for their Irish whiskey, for example chestnut.
You could well argue that the oak casks aren't so much an ingredient as they are a tool for making whisky. And I'd see what you meant by this nuance. However, I include it in the ingredients list as it does play a more active roll in developing flavour than one may think.
As the whisky interacts with the wood a series of chemical exchanges happen. Some chemicals are removed from the whisky. Some are added. And some interact, developing new flavours. Let's take one example: the vanilla note you'll find in a lot of whiskies (particularly American whiskey). This flavour comes not from the malted barley, water or yeast. It's not created during fermentation or distillation. Instead, it comes from vanillin, a molecule found in wood, which is absorbed into the whisky during maturation. And if you're wondering why this vanilla flavour is particularly prominent in American whiskey, this is because the oak casks used are first fill - and so the effect is stronger.
The oak casks used in making single malt scotch whisky often held something else, before the whisky was added. Often, that was American whiskey - as oak casks are a common byproduct of making American whiskeys. But it can also be other drinks. You can read about the use of sherry casks in making whisky here, and about the use of port casks in making whisky here.
So, if I was stretching the definition of 'ingredients' with the oak casks above, I'm definitely breaking it with this one. But, let me explain. Developing flavour while aging in oak casks takes time. Lots of time. The Scotch Whisky Authority states that a scotch has to be aged for a minimum of three years. But, in reality, many whiskies are aged for much longer than three years. Think about the age statements that you may find in a supermarket: I bet you'll often see '12 Years Old'. And a whisky can go up to 30 years, 40 years, or even older.
So, time plays a key role in making flavour. You have to be patient and let the oak cask work its magic over time. And, given how the length of time the cask is left to age has such a material impact, this is why I include time in this list.
Peat is centuries-old vegetation that has part-decayed and part-survived. It becomes compressed over hundreds of years, into a kind of fibrous dense soil, thick with that old vegetation. It can be cut into brick shapes and then dried.
Peat has long been used as a source of fuel. In Scotland and Ireland in particular, it was burned to provide heat to cook with, boil water with, and keep the home warm. And, peat is sometimes used in making whisky.
It's important to note that not all scotch whiskies are made using peat. Only some. Where it is used, peat is burned to create heat which dries the malted barley, stopping it from growing, and keeping the sugar locked in the grains.
During this process, the peat gives off smoke. Picture that fibrous vegetal soil brick I described, burning on a fire. I bet you can imagine the smoke coming off it. That smoke will gently permeate the drying grains of barley. And some of the smoke particles will remain in the grains, through fermentation and distillation, and into the whisky. This adds a smokey earthy character to the final single malt whisky.
So again, not a typical ingredient, and not a ubiquitous one. But, peat can be used to add an extra flavour dimension to whiskies.
I hope you've enjoyed this article about the ingredients whisky is made of. If you're feeling thirsty, I have a great selection of single malt scotch whiskies available here. They're all from small independent brands, who are passionate about artisan whiskies made using the very best ingredients.
And, if you enjoyed this article, you may enjoy reading my article about the chemistry of whisky here.
Thanks for reading, Ed
]]>I think it's fair to say some people may be a bit surprised at the price points. And that's understandable. High-end whisky is a treat, a little luxury in life. But I thought it may be useful to briefly comment on why single cask whisky can be so expensive. So, here are five contributing factors to the cost of single cask whisky.
Single cask whiskies are (usually!) of very high quality. If the brand is doing their job right, these are amongst the best examples of a particularly distillery or style you'll find.
High quality bottles mean finding high quality casks of whisky. And such casks don't come cheap. They themselves command a premium. This cost in the fundamental input into single cask whiskies is reflected in the end price. You are buying quality.
Linked with quality is the rarity factor. Not every cask of whisky is good enough to be released as a single cask expression. Indeed, most casks of whisky are not good enough - it's only a small proportion that will make the grade. Rarity influences cask price, which in turn affects the end cost of the bottles.
But there's another angle to rarity. Single cask whiskies are an opportunity to try different, unique, and special whiskies. Those that are a different style. That use a particular type of whisky cask, like port casks. Or that are exceptionally well-aged. Again, these factors mean there are inherently fewer casks that meet the grade.
Single cask whiskies are artisan releases. Care and attention goes into every aspect of their creation. From selecting the best casks of whisky. Through considering how best to age and finish them. To the bottling process and how they're presented.
And, in line with an artisan product, you're buying something that's inherently limited edition. Exactly how many bottles of whisky are made depends on the size of the whisky cask. But usually there will be only around 300 bottles.
Single cask whiskies can be bottled at any strength, from 40% upwards. However, given the artisan nature of single cask whisky, it is often bottled at high strength. As a broad range, 50% to 60%, ish. Where this is the natural strength of the whisky when emptied from the cask, it is known as 'cask strength'.
Single cask whiskies are usually bottled at high / cask strength as it puts the whisky drinker in charge. They can choose their ideal strength, either enjoying it at the natural cask strength, or adding a little water to bring the ABV down to their preferred strength.
The only catch in this approach is tax. We can never escape tax. And in the case of whisky, as well as standard VAT, producers have to pay 'alcohol duty'. The higher the bottling strength, the more HMRC will take in Alcohol Duty. This means that if you're comparing two bottles of differing strength which are, in every other respect, exactly the same, they will be priced differently.
Alcohol tax in the UK, and therefore payable on single cask scotch whisky, is £28.74 per litre of pure alcohol. So let's look at two examples that illustrate the above point. Let's assume everything about two 700ml bottles of whisky is exactly the same, except one is bottled at 40% and the other at 60%. The Alcohol Duty on the first bottle will be £28.74 x 0.7 litres x 40% ABV, which is £8.05. And the tax on the second bottle will be £28.74 x 0.7 litres x 60% ABV, which is £12.07.
Alcohol tax is a key contributor to the cost of cask strength single cask whiskies. This is particularly true up to the £100 mark, where the combination of VAT and Alcohol Duty will be a sizeable percentage of the total sum. For example, a 700ml bottle of single cask whisky at 60% ABV and priced at £75 will include £12.50 of VAT and £12.07. So, a total of £24.57 goes to HMRC, basically a third of the bottle price in this example.
Single cask whiskies can be released by any brand, including distilleries themselves. But, many of the single cask whiskies you'll find on the market are released by independent bottlers. Indie bottlers specialise in selecting exceptional casks and bottling them as single cask releases.
Many independent bottlers are small companies. In fact, they're often just one, two or three people. A small family business. Run by passionate whisky lovers, who pour their heart and soul into every whisky they bottle.
A small team doesn't necessarily have a direct bearing on cost. Although I would suggest that big companies can drive their costs lower in comparison with small family businesses. But what I would say is that every one of your hard-earned pounds you spend with independent businesses goes a long way. You are supporting someones hopes and dreams. And that, I feel, counts for a lot.
Yes, single cask whisky can be expensive and is a treat. But yes, single cask whisky is worth paying a, reasonable, premium for. You are buying a high quality rare whisky that is bottled as an artisan product often by small independent family companies. As long as you're buying from a reputable brand or specialist, you are getting great value for your money, with an exceptional whisky to enjoy.
TopWhiskies specialises in independent bottlers and single cask whisky. You can find our full range of single cask whiskies here. And if I can help you with any recommendations, I'd be delighted. You can contact me here.
Thanks for reading, Ed
]]>Whether you are a first-time drinker or a whisky connoisseur, you should try out some of the best Japanese whisky brands.
The Japanese have developed a taste for whisky, but what separates their version of the classic spirit from others? Here are a few fun facts about Japanese whisky:
The ingredients and process of making Japanese whisky are modelled on how Scotch whisky is made. Indeed the father of Japanese whisky, Masataka Taketsuru, travelled to Scotland to learn how to make Scotch before returning to Japan to start his first distillery.
While the key distillation process for Japanese whisky is the same as say, Scotch, their attention to focus and quality can produce exceptionally fine examples. The purity of Japanese spring water helps with clarity of flavour. And while a variety of cask types are used to age Japanese whisky, Mizunara (Japanese oak) is held in particularly high regard.
You’ll have noticed I’m using the spelling without an “E” for Japanese whisky. Like Scotch, they use this spelling - as opposed to America and Ireland’s use of ‘whiskey’.
Japanese whisky started to gain popularity outside of Japan around 15 years ago, after it started picking up awards and citations in Western publications about whisky. Before that coverage, it was a relatively unknown regional style of whisky. But it has gained remarkable popularity in the western world since then. Australia is a key market, with Australians being particularly big fans of Japanese whisky.
Now that you know a little bit about Japanese whisky, it's time to try some of the best brands. Here are five of the best Japanese whisky brands that you should try:
You can't talk about Japanese whisky without talking about Suntory Yamazaki. This brand is one of the world's most popular Japanese whisky brands. The Yamazaki distillery was the first Japanese whisky distillery, and it's been around since 1923.
If you're looking for a Japanese whisky that's light and fruity, Yamazaki is a good choice. Yamazaki 12 Year Old is an excellent place to start.
Nikka Taketsuru is another famous Japanese whisky brand. It was founded by Masataka Taketsuru, who is often called the "father of Japanese whisky."
Taketsuru learned how to make whisky in Scotland and brought that knowledge back to Japan. As a result, this brand is known for its rich and full-bodied whiskies. The Nikka Taketsuru 12 Year Old is a good place to start. If you're looking for something very special, try the Nikka Taketsuru 21 Year Old.
Hibiki is a Japanese whisky brand that's part of the Suntory family. It was first released in 1989, and it's a blend of several different Suntory whiskies.
Hibiki is a bit lighter than some of the other Japanese whiskies on this list. It's smooth and easy to drink, with a hint of sweetness. Hibiki Harmony is a great introduction to the brand. For more premium expressions, you could go for the Hibiki 12 Year Old or even Hibiki 17 Year Old.
Yoichi is a Japanese whisky brand that's part of the Nikka family. It was founded in 1934 by Masataka Taketsuru, the "father of Japanese whisky."
Yoichi produces rich and full-bodied whisky. The Yoichi 10 Year Old is a good place to start. But if you're looking for something special, try the Yoichi 15 Year Old. You may find it has notes of peat and smoke.
Hakushu is a Japanese whisky brand that's part of the Suntory family. It was founded in 1973, and it's located in the mountains of Japan. The taste of Hakushu whisky is quite different from other Japanese whiskies. It's light and grassy, with a hint of sweetness.
You may want to start with the Hakushu 12 Year Old. And then if you're looking for an older age statement, try the Hakushu 18 Year Old which has a more intense character.
So there you have five of the best Japanese whisky brands you should try. Japanese whisky is a unique and delicious spirit, and it's worth trying if you haven't already.
Have you tried any of these brands? What's your favourite Japanese whisky? Check out our friends The Whisky Club and let us know in the comments below!
]]>So, I’m delighted to be joined, albeit virtual, by Rick van Diepen. Rick is the founder of Single Note Whisky. He’s based in The Netherlands, so we had to share a virtual dram. But it was a real pleasure to get to know him more. Here are the questions I put to him, while trying his latest releases.
Ed: Rick, it’s a pleasure to talk. Tell me a bit about yourself. Maybe about your time in Edinburgh, that’s where you discovered a love for Scotch, right?
Rick: That’s correct! Back in 2005, I did my Erasmus exchange program in Edinburgh. By joining the Napier University Whisky Society, I had a unique introduction to the world of Scotch Single Malt Whisky. Bi-weekly boardroom sessions with the finest whiskies around. What a great time to get into whisky as well, with Ardbeg Very Young being my go-to whisky at home or the many amazing releases from Bruichladdich. I was also lucky to visit quite a few whisky distilleries (such as Springbank, Arran, Ardbeg, Bruichladdich and Bunnahabhain), accompanied by a great bunch of like-minded whisky enthusiasts (huge smile on my face thinking back about this experience).
Oh, and my name is Rick van Diepen, a 38-year young freelance e-commerce & digital marketing consultant, living in Amsterdam with my lovely fiancé Lieke.
Ed: What made you decide to start your own indie bottler?
Rick: I was looking more and more into opportunities to start a business for myself. After many conversations with awesome people within the industry many ideas came up. The idea that got stuck in my head was to start my own brand from scratch. And what do you want more than working on the two things you feel most passionate about? Whisky & Jazz. I got lucky to become friends with some great people in the industry like Torsten from Scotch & Tattoos. They taught me the entire process from cask to glass.
Ed: The name Single Note is a nod to another of your loves in life, jazz. Do you see a connection between whisky and jazz?
Rick: Definitely. For a musician, every single note you play you want it to sound right, and it makes you wonder if it triggers that emotion. It’s the connection between you and your audience. This is exactly how I approach my own whisky brand and bottle releases as well. Every time, I experiment and try something new, like Jazz which is all about freedom and improvisation as well. This results in my expressions, and I am hoping my audience will love them. In turn, they will interpret the dram in their own way. That’s what I find fascinating about whisky, it’s to a large extent very subjective but great stuff for get-togethers and conversations. What you smell and taste is not necessarily the same as I do. But sharing your individual tasting notes is, in a way, not different from talking about that concert you both just listened too.
Ed: I believe Caol Ila is one of your favourite distilleries? Both your first and second releases are from Caol Ila. They’re rather different though. A five year old sherry octave finish. And a 12 year old ex-bourbon, re-racked into first fill ex bourbon. What’s your thought process?
Rick: Islay if my favourite whisky region and after finding out Caol Ila is Gaelic for “Sound of Islay” I found this impossible to ignore. My first distillery visits were on Islay as well. So, I thought my first release must have that epic sound of Islay. I found a very young Caol Ila (5 years) and started thinking how to make this my own. When I learned about octave casks things started to fall into the right place: playing a “C” (from Caol Ila in this case) and add an octave you will get another “C” only one bar higher in the musical charts. The result: a very young peated Caol Ila with a warm Oloroso sherry blanket on top!
Ed: Very cool. Your third release is rather different! An 11 year old Port Dundas finished in a first fill PX quarter cask. Tell me more about this?
Rick: This one crossed my path. I never thought I would try a single grain whisky this soon, but loved the story about Port Dundas, a demolished and non-producing distillery for over 10 years I believe. It was already in a PX quarter cask. I did not have any experience with either single grain nor PX quarter casks, but hey I love a good experiment and see how it turns out. I guess I was lucky it turned out very well. It gets highly rated in multiple whisky tastings where this dram was served. People are very surprised when tasting this one and nobody would guess where it’s from when tasting blindly.
Ed: What your first three whiskies do have in common is that they’re all cask strength, natural colour and non chill filtered. Is this important to you, and if so why?
Rick: Yes, it is. I want you to have the freedom to experiment as well, until you hit that right note! Everybody has their own preferences and a whisky can be very delightful at different ABV levels, so I am all for “Variations on a Theme”. Sometimes I am drinking cask strength whisky. But sometimes I am playing around with a few drops of water and see what I can discover more, or vary depending on the mood, or type of music.
Ed: Your bottles are very classy; almost, restrained. Like the saxophonist who turns up to a gig in a black suit, white shirt, and black tie. What’s your design inspiration?
Rick: I would rather say a trumpet player but you are right! This person will be all suited up in black and white, but for me this also reflects the setting of typical jazz club. A dark setting, lighting up the artist on stage. On my label this is my brand name taking centre stage.
Ed: Okay so I’ve got to ask, back to one of my earlier questions: what jazz music would you pair with each whisky?!
Rick: Haha, I get that question a lot nowadays. Personally, I would pair the Port Dundas with any concert of Wynton Marsalis and his Lincoln Jazz Orchestra or “ol’ blue eyes”, Frank Sinatra (accompanied by Count Basie’s Orchestra). When having a dram of Caol Ila I would go for a bit more funk and enjoy some Gordon Goodwin’s Big Phat Band or Louis Dowdeswell Big Band.
Ed: Single Note has started strong with three great releases. What’s next for you?
Rick: I would like to keep that a secret for now, but I am still playing around with them. I re-racked my fourth cask last year June into a Catoctin Creek Rye cask and the PX Quarter cask (1st fill) used for my Port Dundas.
Ed: You love sharing your passion, and your whiskies themselves, with the community right? I believe you’d like to make an offer to TopWhiskies readers?
Rick: For me, whisky is all about its community and sharing a dram. So I am more than happy to provide a 10% discount on the Caol Ila 12 year old available in your online shop. Consider this a “virtual dram” on me!
Ed: Rick, thanks very much for talking with me. I have a feeling you’ll be releasing many more top hits in the years to come. I can’t wait.
You can read my reviews of Rick’s Caol Ila 12 Year Old here, and his Port Dundas here. If you’d like to try Rick’s whiskies for yourself, you can find Single Note Caol Ila 12 year old here. Don’t forget to use the discount code RICKSDRAM when you checkout to get 10% off.
]]>There are many different styles of cigars, and each one has its own unique flavour profile. While we don't have time to cover cigars in full, here are some of the most common styles of cigars and their respective flavour profiles:
Pairing drinks with cigars goes back as far as, well, as far as drinks and cigars. It really is a classic evening pairing, particularly after dinner.
Many different drinks can be paired with cigars. Popular options for pairing cigars with drinks include whiskey, brandy, and rum. These spirits are often considered to be a good match for cigars because they can help to enhance the flavours of the cigar.
But, cigar pairings aren't limited to spirits alone. Other options for pairing cigars with drinks include coffee, tea, and even beer. Some people also enjoy pairing cigars with dessert wines, such as port or sherry, as these can help to complement the sweetness of the cigar.
In the midst of these pairings, understanding how to choose a cigar that complements your chosen beverage is key. The art of selection is not just about size or shape; it's about the intricacies of the cigar's flavour profile and strength. Whether you're a novice or an aficionado, taking the time to learn about the nuances of each cigar type ensures the best possible pairing experience.
All things said, spirits do go particularly well with cigars. The flavours in spirits can help to enhance the character of a cigar, creating a more enjoyable smoking experience, bringing out the rich, complex notes of tobacco. Spirits can also help to smooth out any harsh or bitter notes in the cigar. And finally, the alcohol in spirits can help to cleanse the palate, allowing you to fully appreciate the flavours of the cigar.
When pairing a single malt whisky with a cigar, it is important to consider the flavours and characteristics of both the whisky and the cigar. Here are some suggestions for single malt whiskies that would pair well with a cigar:
Let's look beyond single malts. What about the best bourbons to pair with cigars? Here are a few suggestions:
Irish whiskey may be a less obvious cigar pairing than single malt scotch or bourbon, but can work equally well. Here are some recommendations:
If you're looking for something slightly larger than a dram, why not go for a whisky cocktail? Here are some whisky cocktails that go well with cigars:
Both cognac and whisky are distilled spirits made from a fermented mash, but the key difference lies in that mash. Cognac is made from white wine grapes, specifically the Ugni Blanc variety, while whisky can be made from a variety of grains including barley, rye, wheat, and corn.
Another key distinction is the way these spirits are produced. Cognac must be distilled twice in copper pot stills and aged for at least two years in French oak barrels. While whisky can be distilled in pot stills or column stills. Maturation guidelines will vary depending on region, but in the case of scotch whisky it must be aged in oak barrels for a minimum of three years.
Both spirits also have their own distinct flavour profiles. Cognac is typically smooth and fruity with notes of vanilla. Whisky can range from smoky to sweet, with hints of spice and caramel. Anytime you want to enjoy the best whiskies, make sure to try them neat first. Then, depending on how high the ABV is, and the degree of alcohol prickle you find, you can add a small amount of water to unlock the full flavour profile.
When it comes to deciding between cognac vs whisky, the answer really depends on personal taste. Both spirits offer a unique and delicious drinking experience. And really it’s up to you to decide which you prefer!
You may not be surprised that I'd express a preference for whisky. I'll avoid arguing that whisky is better per se. But what I, myself, would observe is the breadth and variety of flavours within the whisky category. From sweet and fruit, to coastal smoke, there's something for everyone.
Whether you prefer cognac or whisky, one thing is for sure - both spirits offer a delightful drinking experience that should not be missed! They can both be enjoyed in a variety of serves, from cocktails to neat. They're both great as an after-dinner treat, but can also both be enjoyed in a variety of settings. Try a food pairing or two!
Both spirits are made from a fermented mash which is then distilled and aged. So, they share a basic production process. But, there are some key differences.
Cognac is produced exclusively from white wine grapes. Whisky can be made from a variety of grains including barley, rye, wheat, and corn. If we're talking about single malt scotch whisky, then that grain has to be, specifically, malted barley.
Cognac must be distilled twice in copper pot stills and aged for at least two years in French oak barrels. Depending on the regional style, whisky can be distilled in pot stills or column stills. Maturation time will vary by regional style, and regional style itself is informed by the climate of the country it's being made in. In the case of Scotch whisky, then it has to be aged in oak barrels for a minimum of three years.
Cognac is typically smooth and fruity with notes of vanilla, while whisky can range from smoky to sweet, with hints of spice and caramel. Some popular brands of Cognac include Hennessy and Martell, while popular whisky brands include Johnnie Walker (blended scotch) and Jim Beam (American bourbon whiskey).
Cognac is produced exclusively from white wine grapes while whisky can be made from a variety of grains. This difference in the base product also adds to the variation in flavour profiles.
Cognac must be distilled twice and aged for at least two years in French oak barrels. Whisky can be distilled either twice or three times, and is often aged for at least three years in oak barrels. This difference in distillation and ageing process also contributes to the variation in flavour profiles.
Cognac is typically smooth and fruity with notes of vanilla, while whisky can range from smoky to sweet, with hints of spice and caramel.
Cognac has a fruity and floral aroma, while whisky often has a smoky or woody scent. The taste of Cognac is typically smooth with hints of vanilla, while whisky can range from sweet to smoky and have notes of spice or caramel.
Popular mainstream brands of cognac include:
Popular mainstream brands of whisky include:
If you go to any supermarket, chances are you'll find a wider range of whiskies than cognac. A key reason for this is whisky can be produced in a variety of regions around the world, including Scotland, Ireland, Japan, and the United States. Cognac, on the other hand, can only be produced in the Cognac region of France. This geographically-protected nature of Cognac means there's, literally, less room for Cognac brands to develop. But there's a world of opportunity for whisky. Again, literally.
The legal minimum ageing period for Cognac is two years, while the minimum ageing period for whisky varies by country. In Scotland, for example, the minimum ageing period for Scotch whisky is three years. In the United States, bourbon has no regulated minimum age, but "straight" whiskey has to be aged for at least two years.
However, most producers age their spirits longer to allow for the development of more complex flavours.
Some Cognac and whisky bottles will also have age terms indicating the age of the youngest spirit in the bottle. For Cognac, these terms include VS (at least two years), VSOP (at least four years), XO (at least six years), and Hors d’âge (at least ten years). For whisky, it will either be a 'Non Age Statement' (NAS), meaning the age is not disclosed. Or, it will have an age statement, for example 12 Years Old, 18 Years Old, etc. This age statement means that the youngest whisky in the bottle is that stated age.
The age term on a bottle of cognac or whisky does not necessarily determine the quality of the spirit. While older spirits may have had more time to develop their flavour profile, factors such as the type of barrel used for ageing and the distillation process can also contribute to the overall taste and quality of the spirit. Ultimately, it is up to personal preference whether a person prefers the flavour profile of a younger or older spirit.
Additionally, age terms can also affect the price of the bottle, with older spirits typically being more expensive. So be sure to taste and experiment before making a purchasing decision based solely on age terms.
When it comes to Cognac and whisky, there are many factors that contribute to the taste and quality of the spirit, beyond age. So go ahead, sip and savour, and find your own personal favourite.
Cognac and whisky are both popular worldwide. Cognac has a slightly larger market share in Europe and North America, while whisky dominates in Asia. In 2018, global sales for Cognac reached $7.5 billion, while global whisky sales reached $10.4 billion.
However, within the spirits industry, there is a trend toward premiumization, with consumers opting for higher-end and more expensive brands.
Both cognac and whisky have seen growth in this segment of the market, with sales of premium Cognac increasing by 26% in 2018 and sales of premium whisky increasing by 8%.
So whether you prefer the sophistication of Cognac or the bold flavours of whisky, there are plenty of options to choose from. And you should be able to find something good wherever you are.
Both Cognac and whisky have seen steady growth in global sales over the past decade, with an increasing demand for premium brands.
In recent years, cognac sales have been particularly strong in China and the United States, while whisky continues to dominate in Asian markets such as Japan and South Korea. Overall, the global spirits industry is expected to continue to grow in the coming years.
So whether you’re a cognac connoisseur or a whisky enthusiast, there are plenty of options to choose from and enjoy in the growing spirits market.
There are many cognac brands to choose from, but some of the top-rated and popular options include these ten:
10 Best Whisky Brands On The Market
When it comes to whisky, there are countless brands and varieties to choose from. Here are 10 of the best whisky brands, a mixture of indie brands and established:
Cognac and whisky can be purchased at reputable online stores, and also in some neighbourhood stores. Prices vary depending on the brand and age term. It is also worth considering purchasing directly from the distillery for special or limited edition expressions.
One good option is to visit us here at TopWhiskies. We're an online specialist retail showcasing the best independent whisky brands. We sell a wide range of unique whiskies from around the world. So do check out our range of independent whiskies here.
Here are 5 frequently asked questions about cognac and whisky:
Cognac is a type of brandy made from specific types of grapes in the Cognac region of France, while whisky (or whiskey) can be made from a variety of grains and produced anywhere in the world.
Both cognac and whisky can be enjoyed on the rocks, though some purists may argue that adding ice restricts the flavour of the spirit. Ice contracts flavour molecules, making it harder to experience the full character of a spirit. As an alternative, try adding a few drops of water. Water will help reduce any alcohol burn you may experience from high ABV spirits. And, water will help unlock flavours.
Both cognac and whisky can be used in cocktails, with each offering a unique flavour profile. Popular cognac cocktails include the Sidecar and the Vieux Carré, while whisky cocktails include the Highball and the Old Fashioned.
Both cognac and whisky can be aged in barrels, with each offering a range of age terms. Ageing typically adds complexity and depth to the flavour profile of the spirit.
This ultimately comes down to personal preference. Both spirits offer a range of flavour profiles and styles. So it is best to sample and explore to find your favourite.
Cognac is typically enjoyed in a tulip-shaped glass, also known as a snifter, to capture the aromas. Whisky can be enjoyed in a variety of glasses, including the classic lowball or rocks glass, or a Glencairn glass specifically designed for whisky tasting.
Both cognac and whisky can be enjoyed as an after-dinner drink, or paired with certain foods. Cognac pairs well with chocolate desserts, while whisky pairs well with smoked meats and cheeses.
Cognac and whisky should be kept in a cool, dark place to preserve their flavour and prevent evaporation. They do not need to be refrigerated after opening.
While freezing cognac or whisky will not harm it, it can potentially affect the flavour and texture. It is not recommended to freeze either spirit for extended periods of time.
There are non-alcoholic versions of both cognac and whisky available, though their flavour profiles may differ from traditional versions. These can be enjoyed by those who do not consume alcohol, or as a lower-proof alternative.
By exploring the world of cognac and whisky, you can find your preferred style and flavour profile to enjoy on its own or in cocktails. Remember to store and serve properly to get the most out of each sip. Cheers!
While both cognac and whisky are distilled spirits made from a fermented mash, they have distinct differences in production methods, flavour profiles, and regional origins. Cognac is produced in the Cognac region of France using specific grapes and distillation techniques, while whisky can be made from a range of grains and is produced all over the world.
There are popular brands in all the categories, and depending on your personal taste, you may prefer the smoothness of cognac or the smoky depth of whisky. No matter what you choose, both spirits make for a delicious sipping experience.
Cheers!
]]>Hi Jay, great to share a dram together. Could you introduce yourself, and tell us a bit about you?
I live in London, UK. I'm the director of my own estate agency covering lettings, sales and management. A completely different business to whisky! I live with my girlfriend and our cat.
How did you get into whisky? I know you’ve been running a great Instagram account for a while now. Any gateway moments or bottles?
It started after the first time I met my girlfriend's parents. She asked me to have a dram with her father, I really enjoyed it and the rest, as they say, is history. I started drinking blends such as black label, blue label, Chivas 25 and Ballantines 30. I then went onto single casks and Chichibu whiskies, such as the intergalactic releases and various single casks. I have a vivid memory of buying the Hibiki 17 Mount Fuji. At the time, I paid £600 for it and imported it from Australia. Whilst it was en-route to me one sold at Auction for £3,000. I was amazed and shocked! From there, I started to collect more and more.
What do you love about collecting whiskies? What do you look for in a potential collectable?
I love how there are so many different looks, designs, and packaging; there is just so much to engage with. For a collectable, it needs to have a low bottle count, be from a great distillery and have a big following!
I know you’re interested in Japanese whiskies. How do feel the market is evolving, scotch versus world whiskies?
The trend for Japanese whisky has grown from strength to strength, so much so that demand outweighs supply! The flavour profiles available from Japanese whisky are so different to what you can get from a scotch!
Beyond ‘Own Brand’ releases, do you have any favourite indie bottlers? You know this is where my heart lies!
Yes! I really like Swell De Spirits! Michael and I have been friends for some years and I am very proud of what he has been able to achieve!
You’ve recently started World Whiskies, could you tell us about that?
World Whiskies is the brainchild of myself and Gavin (@rolexwhisky). We believe the worldwide whisky community has a lot to learn from each other. There are differences in markets across the globe from Europe, Asia and America. We created World Whiskies to bring everyone together and educate them on investing in whisky. It's a place to bring experiences and knowledge together, which otherwise wouldn’t be possible. Not all brands are created equal, so we offer a strategy on what to buy if you truly want to become a whisky investor.
There's lots going on. We are giving away one bottle, each month, to a lucky member and we also create random competitions and have tasting sessions.
We currently have members in Hong Kong, Australia, America and all over Europe!
How does one become a member?
Head over to www.world-whiskies.com where membership is just £2.95 per month. We ask for an initial commitment of 6 months (£17) but after this, it is monthly.
Included in the memberships are discounts, monthly giveaways, competitions, tastings, fortnightly zoom calls, guest speakers and much more to come.
]]>Chances are you're going to enjoy all the calendars out there. But, if you want to treat yourself to the best whisky advent calendar, what should you consider? Here are a few of the things I look for:
The most important thing has to be the whisky itself. There will be a variety of different styles out there. From single malt Scotch, to world whisky, from American bourbons, to Irish whiskey. But beyond the theme there are a few key principles to think about. Are the whisky brands common, or special? Are the whiskies general release, or small batch? How many have an age statement, and how old are they? These principles are important to the quality of the calendar.
A normal advent calendar has 24 windows, stopping on Christmas eve. So, most whisky advent calendars have 24 drams. There are a few out there that have a bonus dram for Christmas day itself. And there are a few smaller sets that have 12 drinks by the drams. Smaller sets will be cheaper. But when looking at bigger sets it's worth checking whether they give you 24 drams, or 25. Because we all love extra whisky!
As well as the number of drams you're getting, you'll want to look at the size of the measures. There are a few different sizes out there. Most are between 25ml to 35ml, a typical dram size. The bigger the measure, the more whisky you're getting. So assuming the quality is comparable, you'll want to go for the larger measures.
The whisky is of course the most important aspect. But, good presentation does add to the experience. It makes it extra special. And some of these boxes are quite large. If they're on display in your room, you want it to look good!
Whisky advent calendars are a treat. And we all deserve a treat at the end of 2022. The cost of the calendar should reflect the four factors above. The amount of, and quality of, the whisky influences whether the calendar is good value or not.
So, what is the best whiskey advent calendar for 2022? Our winner is the Secret Spirits Scotch Whisky Advent Calendar. Here’s why:
You can find out more about Secret Spirits here, and you can find their calendar here. We ship within the UK and worldwide. Drop me a line if I can help.
Whatever you treat yourself to in December, we hope you have a great Christmas. Slainte.
]]>Great whiskies are artisan products that should be celebrated. You'd drink champagne from a flute, a high-end Belgian beer out of a specialist glass, and a martini from a martini glass. The same is true of whisky. Investing in a quality glass adds to the sense of occasion. Whether you've reached the end of a long week and deserve a special treat. Or, better still, when you're pouring a dram for friends and loved ones.
As well as enhancing the drinking experience, they can have a marked impact on sensing the flavours of a whisky. There are three key elements to tasting a whisky: nose, palate, and finish. The nose is the aromas you smell. The palate is the taste of the whisky, and the texture, or mouthfeel, in the mouth. And the finish is the lingering taste, and feeling, left in your mouth and throat after a sip.
Where whisky glasses can have a particular impact is on the nose. The aromas of a whisky are the 'volatile elements' that evaporate from a whisky. The more of these volatile elements you can smell, the greater your perception of the aroma. So a key feature of whisky glasses is often focusing these volatile elements at the top of the glass. This makes the whisky easier to nose, and heightens the aromas. You can read more about the chemistry of whisky here.
But the influence doesn't stop here. As with food and drink in general, the perception of smell is linked to your perception of flavour. In other words, clearly smelling something improves the flavour you sense when you eat or drink it. So, in this context, better smelling, or nosing, a whisky will enhance the flavours you sense when you come to take a sip.
So, you should buy a whisky glass because it helps you celebrate an artisan product, enhances the ritual of enjoying a dram, and improves the smell and flavour of your whisky.
Here are five of my favourite whisky glasses.
My very first whisky glass was a cut crystal Old Fashioned glass. These are versatile. You can use them for a large pour. They're perfect for whisky on the rocks, if you take your whisky over ice. You can read more about the advantages and disadvantages of whisky and ice here. And, as the name may suggest, they are ideal for making Old Fashioned cocktails. Find some of my favourite whisky cocktails here.
The Old Fashioned whisky tumbler I've featured in this article is by Nachtmann, part of the Riedel Group - one of the best glass makers.
You can buy Nachtmann's Old Fashioned Whisky Tumbler here.
A heavy glass feels premium. It feels grand. And as such, it enhances the experience of drinking a good whiskey, in my book. Old Fashioned tumblers, as above, often have weighty bases. But the challenge with using these for neat whiskey is the wide rim won't focus the aromas of the whiskey. The aroma, commonly referred to as the nose, is a key part of enjoying whiskey.
Enter the LSA Islay Whisky Tumbler. These glasses are a great cross between an Old Fashioned Glass, and our next option of a Glencairn. Like the Old Fashioned Glass they have a wide belly and a heavy base. They feel grand. But like a proper tasting glass such as a Glencairn, they narrow to the rim. This narrowing of the glass focuses the aromas, making them easier to nose.
In case you're wondering, yes you can use this for whiskies other than Islay scotch.
You can buy the Islay Whisky Tumbler here.
The Glencairn is the most famous of whisky glasses. It's arguably where 'proper' whisky glasses started. Certainly, if you go to a whisky tasting or festival it's most likely Glencairns you'll be using.
Then Glencairn has been specifically designed to taste the whisky. It's a smaller, narrow glass. It has a sturdy glass 'foot', which widens towards the belly, and narrows as you reach the top. This shape is perfect for focusing the aromas of the whisky. By nosing the whisky, you'll better appreciate the flavour profile of the whisky.
You can buy Glencairn whisky glasses here.
About a year ago I found myself reaching for a copita glass over a Glencairn. The body of a copita is very similar to a Glencairn. A wider belly, narrowing to a thinner opening. And like a Glencairn, it's designed to focus the aromas at the top of the glass, so that you can easily nose them. I think the reason I'm currently preferring the copita is because of its long stem. Think of it as a cross between a short wine glass, and a Glencairn. Perfect for enjoying a neat dram of your favourite whisky, or for doing mini whisky tastings.
You can buy a set of Copita whisky glasses here.
Riedel is one of the biggest names in wine glasses. They also produce these delicate whisky glasses. Unlike the previous few examples which focus mostly on the nose, these glasses look to accentuate the palate.
The body of the glass is shaped like a long thistle, with a lip that turns outwards. This lip is designed to guide the whisky onto your tongue. And, by directing the pour onto your tastebuds, it aims to emphasize the creaminess and sweetness of a whisky.
These glasses would be particularly ideal for anyone who likes light, elegant glasses. These blown glass pieces are thin and elegant.
You can buy Riedel's whisky glasses here.
Investing in a good whisky glass really does improve the drinking experience. My personal favourites are the Glencairn and the Copita, but there's a glass out there for everyone's preference. And, once you've got your glass, if you'd like a quality whisky to sip out of it then check out our collection of independent whiskies here.
]]>Whisky is an alcoholic beverage made from fermented grain mash. The main ingredient is grain. Different grains (which may be malted) are used for different varieties. Perhaps the most common, particularly for scotch, is barley. But other grains can be, and indeed are, used including corn, rye, and wheat. We've written an article that explains what whisky is made of, and to the ingredients in broader whisky categories. Whisky is aged in wooden casks, most often made of charred white oak. For more information, read our guide on whisky cask types and sizes.
But, back to the subject at hand: the chemical make-up of whisky. Pour yourself a dram, and let's dive in.
The chemistry of whisky is complex and includes many different flavours and aromas. The most important flavour compounds in whisky are derived from the wood during ageing. Other flavours come from the type of grain used, as well as the fermentation and distillation processes.
Whisky contains a range of different chemical compounds, including ethanol, water, esters, aldehydes, ketones, phenols, and other organic molecules. The exact composition depends on the type of whisky and the methods used to produce it.
A key difference between the spirits category, including whisky, and other alcoholic beverages (for example beer or wine) is the high concentration of ethanol. Whisky has a legal minimum of 40% alcohol (ie ethanol), but it can go as high as mid 60s. Ethanol is a colourless and flammable liquid that is produced by fermenting sugar or starch. It is the active ingredient in alcoholic beverages and is responsible for their intoxicating effects. Enjoy responsibly, folks!
Water is the other major component of whisky. It is present in both the grain mash and the finished product, and water can even be added to whisky while drinking. Water acts as a solvent, carrying the flavours and aromas of the other ingredients. Some distilleries swear by their water source. They argue their local spring, and the chemical composition of that spring water, directly impacts the final flavour of the whisky. Certainly, having an abundant, quality, source of water is crucial for distilling.
Whisky contains a range of other compounds. They make up a far smaller proportion of the liquid than ethanol and water. But, they are crucial for the whisky's flavour. Other compounds found in whiskies include:
The colour of whisky is determined by the type of wood used to make the casks, and what the casks held previously. As an example, read our guides to sherry casks and port casks.
Generally speaking, the longer the whisky is aged, the darker its colour will be. But, two key caveats to note. First, a small active cask could have a big impact on colour in a short time; while a large cask that has been reused several times could have little impact even over a long time. Second, some distilleries may 'hack the system', using artificial colouring to make the whisky look darker (older) than it actually is. Most independent bottlers steer clear of this hack, preferring a natural product. As we do.
The whisky cask itself also plays a key role in creating flavour. Different whisky casks will create different flavour profiles. Read this article to find out more about where whisky casks come from.
Phenolic compounds are a class of organic molecules that contain a phenol group. Phenols are closely related to alcohols, and they have similar chemical properties. The main difference between phenols and alcohols is the presence of a carbon atom bonded to the oxygen atom in phenols. This gives phenols their characteristic aromatic smell.
There are many different types of phenolic compounds, and they are found in a variety of food and beverages, including whisky. The most important phenolic compounds in whisky are guaiacol, 4-methylguaiacol, and vanillin.
The concentration of phenolic compounds in whisky varies depending on the type of whisky and the methods used to produce it. The higher the concentration of phenolic compounds, the more intense the flavours will be. And we like flavour!
Guaiacol is a molecule that contributes to the smoky flavour of whisky. It is derived from the charred wood used to make the casks.
4-Methylguaiacol is a molecule that contributes to the spicy flavour of whisky. It is derived from the wood used to make the casks. The eagle-eyed amongst you may see a similarity in name with guaiacol. And you'd be right too - this is a compound variant. You can see the extra carbon, and three extra hydrogen, molecules, to the bottom right of the chemical diagram above.
Vanillin is a compound that contributes to the sweet flavour of whisky. As you may have guessed from the name, vanillin is closely associated with the vanilla bean. But it is also found naturally in the oak that makes up the whisky casks.
Whisky lactones are molecules that contribute to the characteristic taste and smell of whisky. They are derived from the wood used to make the casks. The most important whisky lactone is beta-D-glucopyranoside, which gives whisky its characteristic woody flavour.
The concentration of whisky lactones in whisky varies depending on the type of whisky and the methods used to produce it. Again, the higher the concentration of whisky lactones, the more intense the flavours.
Tannins are polyphenolic compounds that contribute to the astringent taste of whisky. They are derived from the wood used to make the casks. The longer the whisky is aged, the higher the concentration of tannins will be.
The concentration of tannins in whisky varies depending on the type of whisky and the methods used to produce it - particularly the cask maturation approach. The higher the concentration of tannins, the more astringent the taste will be.
Sulfur compounds are molecules that can contribute to the smell of a whisky. They are produced during fermentation and ageing from the interaction of sulfur-containing molecules and alcohol.
The most important sulfur compound in whisky is dimethyl sulfide. This contributes to a whisky's smoky flavour. Other sulfur compounds that contribute to the smell of whisky include dimethyl disulfide, diethyl sulfide, and ethyl methyl sulfide.
The concentration of sulfur compounds in whisky varies depending on the type of whisky and the methods used to produce it. The higher the concentration of sulfur compounds, the more intense the sulfur characteristics. These can be divisive. Some people are particularly sensitive to sulfur, and too much can be really off-putting for them. As always, everyone's personal tastes are different.
In addition to the compounds discussed above, there are a number of other molecules that contribute to the flavour and smell of whisky. These include fatty acids, esters, aldehydes, ketones, phenols, and vitamins.
The concentration of these compounds in whisky varies depending on the type of whisky and the methods used to produce it. The more of these compounds in a whisky, the greater their effect on the flavour profile.
Fatty lipids, also known as fatty acids, are molecules that contribute to the characteristic taste and smell of whisky. They are derived from the grain used to make the whisky.
The most important fatty acid in whisky is oleic acid, which gives whisky its characteristic fruity flavour. Other fatty acids that contribute to the flavour of whisky include linoleic acid, palmitic acid, and stearic acid.
When whisky is cold, these fatty acids can create little white clouds in the whisky. This is entirely natural. Many commercial whiskies use chill-filtration to filter these out. But that's a real shame, as they can contribute to flavour and mouthfeel. Most independent bottlers do not chill filter; which we're very glad about.
Esters are molecules that contribute to the characteristic taste and smell of whisky. They are formed during fermentation from the interaction of alcohol and organic acids.
The most important ester in whisky is ethyl acetate, which gives whisky its characteristic fruity flavour. Other esters that contribute to the flavour of whisky include propyl acetate, butyl acetate, and amyl acetate.
Aldehydes are molecules that contribute to the characteristic taste and smell of whisky. They are formed during fermentation from the interaction of alcohol and organic acids.
The key aldehyde in whisky is acetic acid, which gives whisky its characteristic sour flavour. Other aldehydes that contribute to the flavour of whisky include formic acid, propionic acid, and butyric acid.
Ketones are molecules that contribute to the characteristic taste and smell of whisky. They are produced during fermentation from the interaction of alcohol and ketone bodies.
The most important ketone in whisky is acetone, which gives whisky its characteristic fruity flavour. Other ketones that contribute to the flavour of whisky include propanone, butanone, and pentanone.
Phenols are molecules that contribute to the characteristic taste and smell of whisky. They are derived from the wood used to make the casks.
The main phenol in whisky is vanillin, which gives whisky its characteristic vanilla notes. We looked at vanillin previously. Other phenols that contribute to the flavour of whisky include eugenol, syringaldehyde, and cinnamic acid.
Vitamins are essential nutrients that contribute to the health and wellbeing of humans. They are also present in whisky in small amounts.
The most important vitamin in whisky is vitamin E, which helps to protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. Other vitamins that are present in whisky include vitamin A, vitamin B6, and vitamin C. You may enjoy reading about the health benefits of whisky.
Whisky is made from fermented grain mash and aged in wooden casks. The chemistry of whisky is complex and includes many different flavours and aromas. Whisky contains ethanol, water, esters, aldehydes, ketones, phenols, and other organic molecules. The exact composition depends on the type of whisky and the methods used to produce it. Ingredients, distillation approach, and maturation all impart and modify flavour.
If you enjoyed this article, read about the art of élevage in whisky making, and how it can help layer flavour.
Credit to the great open source site molview.org for the chemical diagrams.
]]>