As we raise a glass to World Whisky Day over the weekend, we delve into a curated selection of whiskies that exemplify the art and innovation of distilling. From traditional Scotch to contemporary Australian spirits, these seven bottles each bring a unique story and flavour profile to the party.
Archie Rose Single Malt Whisky – $120
Archie Rose Single Malt Whisky brings a distinctive Australian flair to the whisky world. Diverging from traditional methods, Archie Rose uses six different malts to achieve a complex and expressive flavour. Matured in a combination of toasted and charred Australian apera casks, ex-bourbon, and ex-rye casks, this whisky offers a nose rich with aromas of fresh herbs, shortbread biscuits, raisins, toffee, and dark chocolate. On the palate, it presents flavours reminiscent of sticky date pudding, amaretto, and espresso, leading to a dry finish with a touch of smoke.
The Macallan Double Cask 12 Years Old: $150
The Macallan Double Cask 12 Years Old blends American and European oak casks to create a whisky with a nuanced flavour profile. The American oak lends notes of vanilla and citrus, while the European oak adds dried fruits and subtle spice. Priced at $150, this bottle is a balanced option for those who appreciate a mix of traditional and innovative whisky-making techniques.
Fuji Single Malt Whisky – $170
Fuji Gotemba Distillery marked its 50th anniversary earlier this year by launching its first Single Malt Whisky in Australia. Crafted by Master Distiller Jota Tanaka, it is matured in a combination of ex-Bourbon, beer-aged, and French oak red-wine casks. It offers a complex aroma of ripe apples and Crème Brûlée, with flavours of white peaches and fruit tart. What sets it apart is the brewing location near Mt. Fuji, which benefits from its unique microclimate and pure snow-melt water, which contribute to the whisky’s distinct character.
Tanaka, a Whisky Magazine Hall of Famer, brings over 30 years of expertise to this innovative release, adding depth to Fuji’s portfolio.
Lark Classic Cask – $175
Created by Bill Lark, often hailed as the “God Father of Australian Whisky,” the Lark Classic Cask stands as a testament to his mastery. This whisky perfectly blends sweet, spicy, and savoury elements, creating a profile that delights Scotch lovers and newcomers alike. The complexity of this whisky unfolds with notes of toffee, apple crumble, red berries, and crisp citrus, culminating in a smooth, custard-like finish rich with plum pudding undertones. Priced from $175, the Lark Classic Cask offers an unparalleled tasting experience that captures the essence of Australian whisky craftsmanship.
Glenmorangie A Tale of the Forest Single Malt Scotch Whiskey: $186.99
Glenmorangie’s A Tale of the Forest is inspired by the natural world, incorporating botanicals and a unique distillation process. This single malt scotch, priced at $186.99, offers an earthy and floral palate, distinguishing itself from more traditional scotch whiskies.
Highland Park 18 Year Old – $306
Highland Park 18 Year Old is a well-regarded single malt Scotch whisky that exemplifies the distillery’s dedication to traditional craftsmanship. Matured in sherry-seasoned oak casks, this whisky offers a complex profile with rich notes of dried fruit, honey, and a distinctive smoky finish. Priced in the premium range, it appeals to enthusiasts who appreciate a balance of sweetness and peat, reflecting Highland Park’s unique heritage and the influence of its Orkney Islands location. The 18-year maturation process ensures a depth of flavour that makes it a standout choice for whisky connoisseurs.
Sullivans Cove Single Cask American Oak Second-Fill aged 24 years: $2,500
Ramping things up with this one. Sullivans Cove has released Australia’s oldest whisky, a 24-year-old single cask – surpassing the distillery’s previous record of a 22-year-old single cask. The whisky has spent 24 years in an American Oak Second-Fill barrel, yielding only 335 bottles. This release is available exclusively to Sullivans Cove mailing list subscribers through an online ballot opening on May 20, priced at $2,500.
The whisky’s tasting profile is rich and complex. The nose offers floral, dark, and treacly aromas with hints of anise and spice, evolving into notes of buttered popcorn, maple syrup, and tropical fruits. The palate is thick and oily, featuring walnuts, hazelnuts, leatherwood honey, and oak spice. The finish brings a blend of leathery vanilla, cantaloupe, and sweet lemon lollies, reflecting the careful maturation process.
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