SMWS releases — January 2023

In short · Bowmore (Islay), 18 years.

“A fragrant filigree fumée, as one can find in perfumes as a top note: the burning scent from the Bursera graveolens tree that grows in South America and nicknamed palo…”Extract · full tasting notes at SMWS

In short · Longmorn (Speyside), 18 years.

“An incredible bouquet of aromas greeted the panel, floral honey, bananas soaked in brandy, lush apricots, fresh pineapple and tropical perfumed wood with a delicate…”Extract · full tasting notes at SMWS

In short · Glenturret (Highland), 8 years.

“Sweet aromas of macaroons, burnt ginger biscuits and salted caramel merged with red liquorice, chocolate fudge cake and buttered toast, while light honey coated burnt…”Extract · full tasting notes at SMWS

In short · Inchgower (Speyside), 15 years.

“Creamy vanilla ice cream melted over strawberries, kiwi and melon, finished with toffee sauce and a Caribbean rum cocktail garnished with kaffir lime and mint leaves.…”Extract · full tasting notes at SMWS

In short · Tullibardine (Highland), 9 years.

“Our noses cruised about in a new car, before exploring a landscape of cut grass, wildflowers, forest petrichor and plentiful sun-ripened fruits, mainly pears and…”Extract · full tasting notes at SMWS

In short · Benrinnes (Speyside), 13 years.

“Fascinating, one Panellist called it, with the scent of stem ginger, clove syrup and a hint of tar, as well as that note of petrol found in aged riesling wines.…”Extract · full tasting notes at SMWS

In short · Linkwood (Speyside), 10 years.

“Creamy notes of vanilla ice cream, custard and marzipan coated the fresh zing of lemon sorbet, pink grapefruit and wild strawberries amid green grass.…”Extract · full tasting notes at SMWS

In short · Dailuaine (Speyside), 14 years.

“Deep and rich aromas of fermenting apples, calvados and demerara sugar blended into old leather, figs, dates and prune juice while rum and raisins became coated with…”Extract · full tasting notes at SMWS

In short · Glenlossie (Speyside), 12 years.

“The initial sharp tingling sensation on the nose quickly developed into orchard fruits, sun-warmed straw, dried wax flowers, black liquorice and malty biscuits.…”Extract · full tasting notes at SMWS

In short · Caol Ila (Islay), 13 years.

“The nose suggested wood smoke, chimney sweepings and burnt fruit cake, hoisin duck and grilled prawns with a balsamic glaze.…”Extract · full tasting notes at SMWS

In short · Aberfeldy (Highland), 9 years.

“First nosing indicated a richly sweet profile full of butterscotch, highland toffee and milk chocolate buttons.…”Extract · full tasting notes at SMWS

In short · Ardmore (Highland), 13 years.

“There was immediately a coastal vibe on the neat nose with aromas of a surf 'n' turf – in this case a rosemary-flavoured filet mignon steak with broiled lobster tails.…”Extract · full tasting notes at SMWS

In short · Glen Elgin (Speyside), 14 years.

“A wonderfully perfumed and elegant style of sherry on the nose evoked stone fruits, dried flower petals, chocolate orange brownies, sticky toffee pudding and plum wine.…”Extract · full tasting notes at SMWS

In short · Tomintoul (Speyside), 9 years.

“Strong vapours of menthol and mint suggested soothing muscle rub with sandalwood incense and almond biscuits topped with cumin and caraway seeds.…”Extract · full tasting notes at SMWS

In short · Glen Scotia (Campbeltown), 8 years.

“One Panellist found himself preparing a refreshing ayran, a Turkish yoghurt drink mixed with sea salt, while another was reminded of polishing tarnished silver cutlery…”Extract · full tasting notes at SMWS

In short · Allt-a-Bhainne (Speyside), 14 years.

“The nose was surprisingly subtle and nuanced, displaying initial impressions of yellow flowers, plums, nectars and golden sultanas.…”Extract · full tasting notes at SMWS

In short · St. George’s (The English Whisky Co.) (England), 11 years.

“We pan-seared a tuna steak in soy, coriander and honey to then serve it with stir-fried samphire over an open peat fire on the beach.…”Extract · full tasting notes at SMWS

In short · Breuckelen Distilling (New York, USA), 7 years.

“The brim of the glass was almost overflowing with immense and potent aromas.…”Extract · full tasting notes at SMWS

In short · MGP (Midwest Grain Products) (Indiana, USA), 6 years.

“How about being served sitting on a polished mahogany antique table a roasted chestnut, caramelised onions and Stilton pizza garnished with fresh thyme.…”Extract · full tasting notes at SMWS