Glenfarclas isn’t a new brand to me. I’ve previously sampled their 12 Year and really enjoyed that expression (you can read the full review here on this platform, or through the link in my bio). Recently, I had the opportunity to try both their 10 Year and their 105 Cask Strength, so let’s talk about…
Tag: Wine Cask
Benriach 12: The Smoky Twelve
Benriach is another brand I haven’t featured much on the blog, so I figured we’d get better acquainted, starting with their Smoky Twelve. Founded in 1898 by John Duff, the Speyside distillery got off to a rough start, falling victim to the Pattison Crash just a couple of years later and closing its doors in…
Glendronach: Ode to the Valley, Ode to the Embers, Ode to the Dark
We recently got the chance to order a flight of The Glendronach’s special releases, Ode to the Valley, Ode to the Dark, and Ode to the Embers, at a local bar, The Haven. But before getting into the whiskies, I want to share a little background on the distillery. Glendronach is a Highland single malt…
Ardbeg Dolce
Ardbeg Dolce is this year’s limited-edition 2026 release, inspired by La Dolce Vita and the glamour of 1960s Italian cinema. As someone who’s always had a soft spot for Islay whiskies, I went into this one cautiously optimistic because a few recent Ardbeg special releases haven’t quite lived up to the hype for me. So,…
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…
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…
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…
thewhiskeywench 