I’ve yet to encounter a disappointing expression from Cotswolds Distillery, and the Hearts & Crafts No. 6 Calvados Single Malt is no exception. Matured in carefully selected Calvados casks, this release is part of the distillery’s Hearts & Crafts series, a tribute to the Arts and Crafts movement that flourished in the Cotswolds in the…
Category: Wine Casks
Bowmore Aged 25 Years
I’ve long been a fan of Bowmore, and it’s been a while since I last reviewed one of their expressions, so when the opportunity came to sample this 25‑year‑old, I couldn’t have been more pleased. Let’s dive in. This expression was matured in a combination of American oak ex‑bourbon casks and European oak Oloroso sherry…
Laphroaig Aged 33 Year Strong Characters Donald Johnston
I enjoy a good daily sipper as much as anyone, but what I love even more are those special whiskies reserved for meaningful moments—occasions you want not only to remember, but to honor with something truly exceptional. The Laphroaig 33-Year-Old Strong Characters: Donald Johnston just might be one of those whiskies. A few years ago,…
Rabbit Hole Dareringer Finished in PX Sherry Casks
Rabbit Hole isn’t a brand I’ve spent much time with—this is only the second expression I’ve tried after Boxergrail, which I surprisingly enjoyed despite being a rye. How does this one compare? Let’s dive in. Made from a mash bill of 65% corn, 25% wheat, and 10% malted barley, this whiskey is finished in PX…
Highgrove Evergreen Single Malt Whisky
Cotswolds Distillery has partnered with Highgrove, King Charles’s private residence, to create the Highgrove Evergreen Single Malt Whisky—an expression that I believe is a permanent addition to their core range. The barley used is grown on the Highgrove Estate itself, and the whisky is matured in a combination of bourbon and STR red wine casks….
Tullibardine Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky
Last night, I spent an incredible evening sampling Tullibardine expressions at Rozafa Mediterranean Restaurant in Quincy, MA graciously hosted by Prestige Beverage Group and Terroir Distillers. Before we talk whisky, let’s talk food—because it deserves the spotlight. Owner and chef Marlon Vila brings fresh ingredients and a true scratch-cooking philosophy to the table, with dishes…
Dingle Distillery
With St. Patrick’s Day fast approaching, it’s time for another Irish whiskey spotlight—this time, Dingle. I’ve had the opportunity to taste their Single Malt, as well as the Lúnasa, Bealtaine, and Lá le Bríde expressions. Before we get into how they compare, here’s a little background on the distillery. The distillery began production in 2012…
Killowen Rum and Raisin Irish Whiskey
And just like that, we’ve arrived in March—which means St. Patrick’s Day is only about two weeks away. The plan? Highlight as many Irish brands as possible. We’re kicking things off with one I had never heard of until recently: Killowen Small Batch Irish Distillers. To be honest, I was ready to blind‑buy this bottle….
Tullibardine 12-Year Double Wood and The Murray 2008 Châteauneuf-du-Pape
If you found yourself in the storm’s path, chances are you’re still digging out this morning. We were close to a foot of snow the last time I looked, with more expected later this afternoon. If there’s no pressing reason to head outside, staying cozy indoors seems like the wisest choice. So settle in, pull…
Barrell Bourbon Cask Finish Series: P.X. Sherry Edition 001
Barrell Craft Spirits (BCS) is a brand we don’t often explore, so sampling this expression during a recent visit with friends was an exciting opportunity. This marks only our second experience with BCS. For those unfamiliar, P.X. refers to Pedro Ximénez—a type of sherry cask renowned for its rich, sweet character. For this release, BCS…
Balvenie French Oak 16-Year
I recently had the pleasure of sampling The Balvenie French Oak 16-Year, and it was truly a remarkable experience. This expression spends 16 years maturing in American Oak before finishing in French oak casks that once held wine from the Charentes vineyards. The result is a whisky that beautifully marries tradition with a touch of…
Glenmorangie A Tale of Spices
Glenmorangie has unveiled a new addition to its Tale series: A Tale of Spices. Inspired by the vibrant colors and intoxicating aromas of bustling spice markets, this expression promises a sensory adventure. Personally, A Tale of Ice Cream still holds the crown for me—but let’s see how this latest release measures up. A Tale of…
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