Cotswolds Hearst and Crafts 6 Calvados Single Malt Whisky

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…

Oceanus Hibernicus

I hadn’t heard of this brand until recently, when I found myself staring at a bottle at my local Total Wine. The packaging immediately caught my attention. What really intrigued me, though, was the fact that it blends Scotch and Irish whiskeys, something I don’t recall seeing before, and at $35, the price felt right….

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,…

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….

Laphroaig Elements 3.0 Small Batch Whisky

I’m a long‑time fan of Laphroaig, and their latest release happens to be the third entry in the Elements series: Laphroaig Elements 3.0 Small Batch Whisky. This edition highlights an experiment in their kilning process, where peat was burned hotter and for a longer duration than usual. I should note up front that I haven’t…

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…

Nc’Nean Flagship Organic Single Malt Scotch

A couple of weeks ago, I attended a tasting event at Norfolk Wine & Spirits in Norfolk, MA, featuring Nc’Nean Organic Single Malt Scotch. Nc’Nean was founded by Annabel Thomas in the village of Drimnin on the Morvern Peninsula along Scotland’s west coast. What sets this distillery apart from many other single malt Scotch whiskies…

Vintage 1995 Glen Garioch

This year’s Burns Night at The Citizen gave me a rare treat: a pour of vintage 1995 Glen Garioch. Since this whisky hasn’t been produced in decades and commands serious money on the secondary market, I figured I’d share my experience for anyone who might encounter it in the wild. Let’s jump in. Founded in…

UPDATE: Glenmorangie A Tale of Winter

Even though spring has officially arrived, the temperatures here on the East Coast still feel decidedly wintery. While we’re still enjoying a whisky before the warmer days finally show up, I wanted to share an update on the Glenmorangie A Tale of Winter. We recently had the chance to finish the bottle, which we first…

The Citizen’s 3rd Annual Burns Night

My whiskey journey started many years ago, and throughout that time, Citizens has been one of our go‑to spots in Boston for trying new pours. We’ve been coming here since it first opened in 2010—back when it was Citizens Public House & Oyster Bar. It’s where I tried Old Rip Van Winkle 10 Year for…

Aberlour A’Bunadh 60.9% Cask Strength

We’ve officially reached the last week of February. And just when you thought spring was around the corner—well, not so fast. If you’re on the East Coast, you know we’re currently under a blizzard warning. So, as you hunker down and ride out the snow, here’s a good whisky to keep you warm and toasty….