Tastes

Ledaig 10 yo / 750 ml bottle / 46.3 % ABV Bold peat smoke, coastal brine, and earthy spices on the nose. The palate is full-bodied, with intense smoke, peppery spice, and hints of lemon. The finish is long, lingering with smoky salt, oak, and a touch of herbal bitterness. Perfect for fans of robust, maritime-style whiskies

The nose is creamy and inviting with caramelized mango on caramel cake, vanilla lanolin, berry blossoms, toffee, and subtle baking spices. On the palate dark chocolate covered berries enter the fray with vanilla, honey, and sweet tropical notes before a fade into baking spices and caramel-toffee bar. The finish is persistent and buttery with a burst of berries and tropical coconut slowly fading into balance with cardamom and clove. You drink like a King when you drink Royal Brackla. Reviewed by: Binny's

Kaiyo 5 Wood Whisky is a blended malt aged in five types of barrels: Mizunara oak, ex-bourbon, sherry, wine, and cognac casks.   Nose: Sweet fruit, apricot, and vanilla, with light floral and spice.   Palate: Smooth and balanced, offering honey, dried fruits, cinnamon, and oak.   Finish: Medium length, vanilla, almonds, and subtle sandalwood from the Mizunara.

The McByirden Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whiskey is an affordable option from the Speyside region of Scotland, typically priced around $37 for a 750ml bottle. It offers a classic, smooth Scotch profile, ideal for those who enjoy Speyside’s lighter, fruit-forward style. While specific tasting notes are scarce, it is described as balanced and easy-drinking, likely appealing to both novice and seasoned Scotch drinkers. The brand is not as widely known or reviewed as major Scotch labels, but it stands out for its price-to-quality ratio, making it a good value for everyday sipping or as a gift. Some sources highlight its approachability and well-rounded character, which is typical of Speyside whiskies.

Tonight … Waterford Cuvée Argot, Irish single malt / 47% ABV / 750 ml Waterford Cuvée Argot is a smooth and balanced Irish whiskey. On the nose, it offers fresh fruit scents like apples and pears, with a hint of vanilla and spice with slight note of smoke. The taste is rich, combining those fruity notes with a touch of honey, malt, and light spice. The finish is clean and warm, leaving a gentle spice and oak flavor. Overall, it's a well-made whiskey that’s easy to enjoy, whether you’re new to whiskey or a seasoned drinker.

A bold and complex whiskey, aged for at least four years and bottled at 100 proof. The nose offers dark chocolate, toasted oak, and cinnamon, with hints of dark fruit. The palate is full-bodied, featuring molasses, caramel, and spicy rye, with a strong oak influence. The finish is long and warming, with lingering spices and cocoa. It's a rich, intense rye whiskey that stands out for its depth and robust flavor, making it ideal for sipping neat or in rye-forward cocktails.

Nose: Strong peat smoke, medicinal notes, vanilla, caramel, subtle fruitiness, oak spice, and faint coconut. Palate: Full-bodied with upfront peat smoke, sweet vanilla and caramel, spicy virgin oak, and rich European oak tannins. Balanced with green apples and citrus. Finish: Long and warming, with lingering smoke, oak spices, and a touch of sweetness.

Ardnamurchan AD/05.23 / 700ml / 58.3% Nose: Complex bouquet of orchard fruits, citrus zest, vanilla, honey, and a subtle layer of peat smoke. Palate: Smooth entry with caramelized sugar, ripe stone fruits, gentle smokiness, dark chocolate, and spices. Rich, velvety mouthfeel. Finish: Long and lingering, with pronounced smoke, dried fruit, oak tannins, and a touch of saline. Pairing Suggestions: Pairs well with smoked salmon, aged cheeses, dark chocolate, or rich fruitcake.

Nose: The aroma features dried banana chips and milk chocolate, ripe plum, and floral citrus blossoms. There are also notes of toffee butter, peppery oak spice, and a hint of saltiness. Palate: The taste is rich with salted butter on baked plums, caramel chocolates, and toffee bar. Spices like cinnamon sticks and cloves add warmth and depth. Finish: The finish is long and warm, with lingering cardamom and cloves, fading into sweet, chocolate-soaked plums.