Tamnavulin 1979
$1,034.99
According to the Malt Whisky Yearbook, Tamnavulin is the fastest growing single malt in Scotland. While historically much of the distillery's production has ended up in Whyte & Mackay blends, it seems as though there's a new vision for the brand. With a capacity of about 4.2 million litres, we should soon be seeing a lot more Tamnavulin. Sadly, the core range is rather lean, but there was also a decade long stock gap from the mid-90s through mid-2000s, so a lot of the spirit is really just coming into its own. Imagine our surprise when this 2018 Taiwan-exclusive bottling appeared in our market. Apparently, this was the last batch they had left from the 1970s. It was matured in a combination of first fill Sherry butts and Bourbon barrels. In their own words: "Initially matured in Bourbon barrels then transferred to 30 Years Old Matusalem Oloroso Sherry butts before being returned to First Fill Bourbon barrels for a final maturation period to conclude the 39 year maturation."
Just gonna say it: this price is way too low.
Non-chill filtered, and bottled at 46.5% abv
Nc'nean Organic Single Malt Scotch
$88.19
Nc'nean is one of the most fascinating distilleries going. Net zero carbon emission, entirely organic, socially aware, and now with legit 'of age' whisky. This core range single malt was matured in a mix of red wine, Oloroso sherry, and ex-American whiskey casks (we assume that means not ex-Bourbon, but don't quote us).
Natural colour, non-chill filtered, and bottled at 46% abv.
Poplar Grove The Legacy
$71.24
Founded in 1993, Poplar Grove Winery is one of the original five wineries on the Naramata Bench. Tony and Barb Holler purchased the winery in 2007. Their sons, Chris, Andrew, Matthew, and Eric farm more than 140 acres of estate vineyards with care. The family is widely recognized for crafting their outstanding signature red blend The Legacy, as well as delicious Cabernet Franc and Merlot-focused wines and an exceptional Pinot Gris. Together they share a commitment to distinctive, genuine wines that reflect the character of the Okanagan Valley.
Amrut Two Continents
$152.99
Good to see this one back. There's only ever been a handful of batches of this expression, so it's extra special to see the prodigal child return.
Amrut Two Continents starts its life in India and, after a period of initial maturation in those warm climes, the casks are shipped to an undisclosed European location for the last little bit of 'growing up'. An interesting concept (something that Scotch whisky could never do), and always well-executed. This is Batch No 4.
Natural colour, non-chill filtered, and bottled at 46% abv.
Vallein Tercinier 1996 Cognac GrCh 49.7%
$183.74
From the Producer
"This Grande Champagne Cognac, aged in French oak barrels in our cellars, has been selected by our cellar master for its gustatory pleasure, beautiful balance and singularity of its aromatic palette."
49.7% ABV
Singleton of Glendullan 14 Year SR 2023
$138.74
Maybe the least interesting distillery in this year's outturn, but well-countered by an interesting cask type: Chardonnay de Bourgonge French Oak.
55% abv
Clynelish 10 Year Special Releases 2023
$178.49
First Fill Bourbon American Oak. What a perfect way to showcase 'the waxy one'. Unquestionably, one of the most exciting of the 2023 Special Releases.
57.5% abv
May Clynelish's waxiness never wane!
Romero Cuba Libre Singles
$4.19
Canadian Rum? Made in Calgary?!? You betcha! Romero Distillery has been operating since 2019, and their RTD Cuba Libre has been a hit since it was first launched in the fall of 2020. This Cuba Libre is made from cola, Romero's own Sugarcane Spirit, and Lime Juice. 5%.
El Ateo Anejo Tequila
$118.79
El Ateo translates to The Atheist in english. Interesting name for a tequila brand.
Producer Description
“This tequila is created using their blanco and aging it for 14 months in ex-bourbon barrels; once used charred American white oak. The agave is estate grown agave coming from their property in Romita, Guanajuato and then the tequila is produced in Arandas, Jalisco at Plantaciones Tequilana - NOM1635.”