Whisky review : Crown Royal Limited Edition, bottled @ 40%

Whisky review : Crown Royal Limited Edition, bottled @ 40%

-1st Crown Royal
-Odd bottling

Nose:  creamy, spices, wood dust, hot, spirit notes, cedar sap, cardamon, nice thick nose that revolves around spices, broken raw sugar, caramel, medium bodied.

Mouth: Sweet, spicy, chili caramel, very hot spices, eucalyptus, wood. Very tingly dry on the tip of the tongue. With water added, more dry sweetness, bitter notes, sap, sweet spices, floral,

Finish: bitter notes, waves sugary wood...bitter dry. Yeah...still flat. A few more floral notes perhaps ?

B for the taste. Very nice nose but fall short on the mouth. Leaves much to be expected. Far from being the best canadian I've had. Far behind the Dark Horse but closer to the Alberta Premium, perhaps not as ''robust''. I'm not sure I'll give Crown Royal a second chance after this...
A for the price. Good price (35$) at the SAQ and the LCBO (38$). Not bad for sure, but yet again, not great. Perhaps save this 35$ and buy a 30$ bottling of Dark Horse or even the CC Sherry Cask.
C+ for presentation. Royal packaging is simply put : cheesy. Feels weird while holding....

Whisky review : Bushmills Black Bush (NAS), bottled @ 40%

Whisky review : Bushmills Black Bush (NAS), bottled @ 40%

-a cheap and great whisky

Colour:  medium gold, light bodied, very juicy. The colour indicates the probable absence of caramel.

Nose: very fruity, barley sugar, corn syrup, sweet, light straw, mashed apples and pears, white and yellow fruits, green apple paste.

Mouth:  Light, fresh, sweet, apple drink, not a very complex yet very refreshing whiskey. Some harsh notes, the grain spirit probably. This one can really benefit from added water. Water will tone down the grain and unleash more sweet floral and fruity notes. Very nice sipping whiskey at great price !

Finish: sweetness, fruits, not a very long finish. The experience here is on the palate.

A- for the taste. Not complex but very well rounded and balanced. A very nice sipping whiskey ! Highly recommended.
A+ for the price. At 37$ (LCBO)....it worth every penny.
B for the presentation. Lonely bottle...and not much info on the labels. 

Whisky review : McClelland Islay (NAS), Bottled @ 40%

Whisky review : McClelland Islay (NAS), Bottled @ 40%

-Cheap
-Produced by Bowmore

Colour: dark coppery gold, medium bodied, long legs

Nose: thick caramel, wet pennies, eucalyptus, iodine, light smoke, very similar to Teacher's or even a light Laphroiag. Not as thick as a Bowmore for sure. Hints a dark chocolate...but vague. Dense sweet smoky chocolaty nose. Very interesting.

Mouth: Sweet, iodine, smoky, touches of light peat, spirit ripples, more peat, no much peat nor sweetness. Vanilla, honey, peaty. Touches of Tar, tar chemicals.

Finish:light peat, sour, red tea, iodine, medicinal herbs, more eucalyptus.


A+ for the price. for 35$ (SAQ and LCBO) it's a good bargain.
B for the taste. At this price, it would compare to the cheaper Islay Mist 8 years Old. This is a palate malt, it's not a very complex Whisky for sure. It's not bad per se, but not great by any means. It's nice for the first contact then it changes to a robust cheap single malt.
B for presentation. Regardless of the pseudo-painting on the tubing, it still looks cheap.

Whisky review : Pike Creek Double Barreled 10 years old port finish bottled @ 40%

Whisky review : Pike Creek Double Barreled 10 years old port finish bottled @ 40%

-Cool bottling but cheap thread...simply glued on it.
-Port wine finish
-Sadly bottled at 40%...
-Rare whisky ! 

Colour : light goldish amberish. Very clean colour. I would suspect this is the result of the Port finish, a light Tawny port. Very thin if may say so.

Nose: You can clearly see the port influence here, sherry, spices, hot vibrant brown sugar, sugar cane, wood dust, nutty, caramel.

Mouth: Caramilk's caramel, malted milk, sugar, port, spices,ether, a few ''robust'' notes, spirity, some harsh tones. Dark fruits, but nothing over the top.

Finish: sweet, cherried caramel, light toffee, not very long nor memorable but still interesting.                                                                          
A for the price. Currently standing at 39.9$ (LCBO), it's a must buy for anyone wanting to enjoy a good yet different Canadian whisky.
B+ for the taste. The fact that it is still harsh and has ripples prevent this otherwise great whisky to achieve excellency.
A- for the presentation. I can understand the ''rustic'' aspect of the cord but....just don't stick it on with hot-melt glue...

Whisky review : Benriach 15 years Old Dark Rum Finish, bottled @ 46%

Whisky review : Benriach 15 years Old Dark Rum Finish, bottled @ 46%

-Unchill-filtered
-No colouring

Colour: light gold, oily, long legs, thick bodied.

Nose: caramel, hot rum, sugar cane, buttery notes, creamy, vanilla, light grass, fresh

Mouth: sweet rum, bourbon sweetness, butter, vanilla, raw sugar, iodine, hints medicinal oils, fresh ,juicy, cherries, dried red fruits,

Finish: Sweet raw sugar rum, spices, fruits, long sugary notes, light wax

A- for the taste. A very well rounded malt. I enjoy the iodine/raw sugar balance.
B for the taste. Massive 90$ (SAQ) vs. 70$ (LCBO)....quite obvious which one to buy....70$ is very reasonable for this malt. Hence at 70$ it stands at A-.
B- for the presentation. Purple tubing and label, need I say more ?

Whisky review: Benriach 12 years Old ''Horizons'' , bottled @ 50%

Whisky review: Benriach 12 years Old ''Horizons'' , bottled @ 50%

-Triple distilled
-Sherry finished
-Unchill-filtered
-No Colouring
-Started maturation in Ex-Bourbon cask

Colour: Golden, medium bodied, long legs, no colouring here.

Nose: light caramel, spices, touches of port wines, grapes, apples, eucalyptus, butter, cream,

Mouth: Sweet, spicy, caramel+mashed grapes waves, light yet pungent character, thick fruit juice, very light for a 50%

Finish: light, long sherry, spices, sweetness, light toffee, vanilla

B+ for the taste. It's good but, let's say I could choose between this and the 12y Aromaticus Fumosus, I would go for the 2nd one. For those who like Sherry, this might not be the one either.
C- for the price. 111$ (SAQ) seems a bit excessive for this 12y. I can purchase the Dark Rum Finish (15y) for 65$ (LCBO)....
A+ for the presentation, great looking box with matching sticker

Whisky review : Glendronach 14 years old Virgin Oak, bottled @ 46%

Whisky review : Glendronach 14 years old Virgin Oak, bottled @ 46%

-Unchill-filtered
-Finished in Virgin Oak

Colour: Pure gold, thick oily and sappy

Nose: Sweet, iodine, caramel, sap, more wood sap, fresh clear honey, fruits, bitter green wood notes

Mouth: Oak, more wood notes, wood sap, vanilla, juicy fruit notes, light spirit, spices, wax, toffee

Finish: Long sappy, green wood, sweet, cold yet sweet mashed apples.

B+ for taste. I good Malt. However, it seemed too limited in terms of palate to be really good. It remains however a very interesting dram as it has been finished in virgin oak.
B for the price. Listed at 89$ (SAQ), it's not a bargain as I am not sure everyone would enjoy this one. Some might but some could find it too light in terms of taste for the price....taste before purchase.
B+ for presentation. Cool light blue bottling, nice white/blue contrast too it.

Whisky review : Springbank 12 years old Cask Strength, bottled @ 58.5%

Whisky review : Springbank 12 years old Cask Strength, bottled @ 58.5%

-3rd Springbank !

Colour: dark coppery gold profile. oily with long legs.

Nose: sweet, iodine, light saweed, Salt air, thick caramel, medecinal herbs, fat caramel

Mouth: Iodine oil, peat, light sea side seaweed, Sea salt, cocoa notes, smoke. A very very nice experience in the glass. So complex and enjoyable.

Finish: Caramel, iodine, maritime waves....

A for taste. A great whisky. Complex, thick, oily. A must try,
B for the price. You can get this for 98$ (SAQ) and 103$ (LCBO). A bit overpriced but could be a great investment.
A- for the presentation. Unique style bottles. Not sure I enjoy the carton package.

Whisky review : The Arran Single Sherry Cask. Cask 1096 Bott. 181/318. 10 years old, bottled @ 55.1%

Whisky review : The Arran Single Sherry Cask. Cask 1096 Bott. 181/318. 10 years old, bottled @ 55.1%

-Another great cask finish by Arran !
-Good price
-matured in Sassacaia red wine cask.

Colour: light rusted water, touches of copper. very light and bright. No colouring, oily and very thick.

Nose: thick butter caramel, spirity notes, hints of red wine, port wine, spices, spiced caramel, still not too rough for a cask strength.

Mouth: caramel, light sherry, vague floral port wine, creamy toffee, thick flavours, still smooth, no need for water here. Juicy,

Finish:  very short. The point here is not the finish, it's in the palate. Still, sweet notes, hints of small red fruits.

A for the price. for 66$, definitely worth a try. Another great product from Arran.
B+ for the taste. Very thick caramel profile. Very nice indeed.
A for presentation. Handwriting always gets me ! Arran also shows the product just as it is, in a simple yet effective manner.

Whisky review: Old Pulteney 21 years old, bottled @ 46%

Whisky review: Old Pulteney 21 years old, bottled @ 46%

-Whisky of the year 2012
-Very nice bottle

Colour: Dark gold, oily, long legs, looks very thick.

Nose: Reminds me of the Cragganmore 12, very fruity, fresh, juicy, wood notes, hints of peat smoke, white grapes, lavender. Very interesting nose indeed !

Mouth: Caramel, sweet, thick fruity juice, coats the mouth, thick but light ! apples, pears, malted barley, vanilla notes, juice in wax tubes.

Finish: creamy sweet wood notes, long sweet and more sweetness. Waves of caramel and vanilla....

C for the price. It stands at 181$ (SAQ) or 230$ (LCBO) it's definitely not something every one can afford. I'd suggest instead the 12 years old. Better pricepoint.
B for the taste. It's good single malt but for a 21 years old, I would love something else than caramel....
A for presentation. Very nice bottle, double necked. Cheap carton tubing, fells too cheap.

Whisky review: Balblair 1989 2nd release (21 years old), bottled @ 43%

Whisky review: Balblair 1989 2nd release (21 years old), bottled @ 43%

-No colouring
-Unfiltered

Colour: Bright gold, light straw, thick bodied, high viscosity

Nose: fruit blast, oak dust, creamy wood, very well seated in the glass, not too aggressive but very dense and interesting ! Sweet, oaky, sweet fruity wood.

Mouth: very sweet, spices, vanilla touches, white dried honey, undefined sweetness, apples, juicy, very fruity, dried pineapple. Acidic, sticky sweetness of it. However, still some ''robust'' notes to it.


Finish: sticky fruit, not very long, sweetness, bitter notes.

B+ for the taste. It was yes, a good malt. Not a favourite for sure. I would instead go for a Cragganmore 12 or even a Dalmore 12. More interesting and cheaper.
B- for the price. at 127$ for a 21 years old is an ok price for sure. However, I was not blown away by this malt. It was good, but I'm not sure I'd pay 100$ for it.
A+ for presentation, Nice packaging and bottle.

Whisky review : Laphroaig Cask Strength Batch 003 (Jan 2011) bottled @ 55.3%

Whisky review : Laphroaig Cask Strength Batch 003 (Jan 2011) bottled @ 55.3%

-2nd Laphroaig
-Very rare in Canada
-Cask Version !

Colour: Bight light Gold ! No colourant added here! Medium bodied, not too oily for a CS...

Nose: Pungent peat ! more peat, a real peat D-Day, fruity, fresh, sweet, spirity, vanilla bulbs, more peat....peat ! and of course : PEAT. Iodine, peat vapours but cold ones, very intense nose, high phenol, white ashes and hints of smoke.

Mouth: a real peat attack, still smooth, more peat, old ashes, coal smoke, thick peat smoke, sweet, vanilla, more peat, medicinal herbs, cigar ashes in the back of the mouth

Finish: very long lingering finish of peat vanilla and smoke. A great Whisky ! After this one, even the Ardbeg is hard to really taste and enjoy. A definite WOW factor here.

A++ for the taste. Simply put, One of the best whiskies I have tasted so far. Very very close to the ardbeg uigeadail if not a tiny bit better. Very close call indeed !
A for the price. Purchased 71$ in USA. Looking at the products they have here (SAQ) I think they would retail it around 90$ if they had it. Hence I would suggest to find it in USA.
A for presentation. I love the red ''warning'' type square on it.

Whisky review: Bunnahabhain 12 years old (new bottling) bottled @ 46.3%

Whisky review: Bunnahabhain 12 years old (new bottling) bottled @ 46.3%

-A non-peaty Islay malt

Colour: Copper, dark for an Islay malt. I wonder if the did put caramel in it....

Nose: Caramel, soft fondant, toffee, touches of butter, barley sugar, caramel.

Mouth: Butter caramel (Kraft), fresh iodine, bits of wet peat, toffee, creamy, earthy salty flavors, grass, straw. Water does not help much here. Still turns to thick butter caramel !

Finish:  lurking buttery caramel, sweet, melted caramel. Very nice and docile dram ! One to be enjoyed over and over.

A for taste. Caramel all over the place. It's a very interesting malt. Remain thick and fresh.
C for the price. At 90$ (SAQ) it's way above mrp ! Since it was purchased in USA for 45$ it's perfect. Again, around 55$ it would be right on the spot. At 90$ I can't recommend a purchase.
A+ for the presentation. Black bottle ! looks old and mystic !


*retaste Octobre 10 2013*

Colour: medium bodied, nice gold with hints of copper, short legs

Nose: deep buttery caramel notes, sweet and very pleasant.

Mouth: very intense caramel, butter caramel, touches of spices.

Finish: lingering caramel and spices.

A for the taste. Still remarkable.
B for the price. 85$ is just above what would be reasonable for this malt.
A for the presentation. Black remains ''In''...for now.

Whisky review : The Cragganmore 12 years old, bottled @ 40%

Whisky review : The Cragganmore 12 years old, bottled @ 40%

-Classic malt, so they say,
-nice packaging

Colour: darker gold, straw, medium bodied

Nose: sweet Riesling, fruity, rough Sauternes wine, sweet apples, iced apple wine. Very fruity and sweet nose.

Mouth: light fruity, floral notes, charred wood, chewy green apple paste, but still some robust notes at the end.

Finish:  lingering apples notes, cold apples, gentle fruity notes. A very nice malt. !

A for the state. It's a great whisky. Simple and clean. a few rough notes but still, the nose and taste overcome these flat end.
C+ for the price. At 74,5 (SAQ) and 85$ (LCBO) it's a bit overpriced. I would see this one go for 60$. (considering it's a 12y...)
B+ for the presentation. Simple and clean ! Very classy presentation.

Whisky review : Collingwood (NAS) finished in Maple wood bottled @ 40%

Whisky review : Collingwood (NAS) finished in Maple wood bottled @ 40%

-Cool bottling
-Finished in maple wood
-cheap.

Colour:  like a B Syrup, medium gold. Not very thick in the glass, very light.

Nose: sweet, maple water, maple sugar, touches of oak dust, spirit notes, grain spirit. You can smell the ripples in the nose for sure. As it is a NAS, it's easy to imagine it's a young spirit.

Mouth: Very mellow, sweet, maple comes through, soon after the sweet mellowness disappears, some ripples arise. Some might say it has a ''robust'' side to it. More maturing would help this one to really settle down.

Finish: Sweet, maple wood, touches of sugar, but brief. Still very acceptable for a Canadian whisky.

B+ for the taste. A smooth Canadian, a very interesting one for sure. ! Still some ripples, but I'm sure they'll work on it.
A- for the price. At 30$ (LCBO) it's a give away ! Really, a must try. Forget the TAP3-5-7, which is more of a maple ''liqueur'' than a real whisky. Plus, it's cheaper.
A++ for the presentation. One of the coolest bottling I saw so far. Looks like an aftershave bottle !

Whisky review : Highland Park 18 years Old bottled @ 43 %

Whisky review : Highland Park 18 years Old bottled @ 43 %

-Met with the Brand Ambassador and discussed the colouring and pricing issues.
-He claim the superiority of his brand over the others.
-way overpriced

Colour : Amber, light copper. I would suggest caramel here, however it is finished in Sherry Cask and he assured me there was none. Still very light in the glass, juicy. Sad they filtered this.

Nose: Closed at first, marmalade, orange, apples, more fruit, toffee,

Mouth: Marmalade avalanche to begin with, Peat touch on the palate that immediately disappear to leave honey, dry honey, spices, not too sweet, red chili, white pepper notes, more fruits, dried apricot. hot, honey...Considering it's been watered down to 43% and it's medium complexity, I am not sure I'd add water to this.

Finish: Oak, touches of sherry, old sherry, oranges, blood oranges, caramel, but nothing really lingering. Good finish but not wonderful.

B for the taste. A good malt for sure, But not a malt you will remember. No wow factor. Some might even be disappointing considering it's an 18 years old.
D for the price. At 150$ (SAQ/LCBO) it's a complete rip off. At a retail of 90$ I would agree. But still, I would not purchase. I would rather buy a GlenFarclas 105 (70$), Glenfiddich 15 (60$), the aberlour 12 @ 48% (74$) and the Old Pulteney 12 (70$) before this one.
A for presentation. Cool glassware carving.

Whisky review : Jack Daniel's Old No.7 New Make Spirit Bottled @ 43%

Whisky review : Jack Daniel's Old No.7 New Make Spirit Bottled @ 43%

-Technically not a whisky
-Pure White
-Non filtered
-Distilled only once
-The picture is not correct. Imagine the Old. No.7 bottle with a White label in the middle + Bottled @ 43%



Colour: Clean white, very thick, very oily

Nose: Grain spirit, soft, very closed, sweet aromas, not as clean as the robe (considering it's been distilled only once...

Mouth: Very sweet, corn, candied corn, licorice, fruits, oily, coats the mouth. Very interesting spirit indeed ! I don't know what they do to it after to make it so repulsive !

Finish: Nothing distinct here, sweet, honeyish touches, that's about it.

They were at first reluctant to let me taste it, however, I must admit I would rather buy their new make spirit than their Old No.7 !

No Price tag, No ''real'' bottling hence no marking here. Simply put : A great experience !

Whisky review: Aberlour A'bunadh Batch Batch 38 Bottled @ 60.3%

Whisky review: Aberlour A'bunadh Batch Batch 38 Bottled @ 60.3%

-2nd Aberlour
-Each batches are different in both taste and quality so..beware.
-Non chill-filtered
-Cask Strength 
-A'bunadh = Original
-Blend of barrels containing 5 to 25 years old whiskies.

Colour: Dark brown, we can see it the Oloroso influence. Very thick robe (colour) yet very thin and juicy for a Cask Strength

Nose: Light distant sherry wine, a bit tight, closed. Brown sugar, licorice, sweet. Not very impressed but the nose even after giving it a few minutes to open in the glass.

Mouth:  A weird rubber taste, very smooth, spicy, red chili, vanilla, honeycomb, touches of cinnamon, distant hints of smoke, and a reflux of rubber. Very complex taste. Adding water opens this whisky to more fruity notes, sherry, spices. It remains similar to the ''neat'' version.

Finish: fruit acidity, red fruits, old sherry, spice dust.

B for the taste. It is simply ok. I am not sure I get the fuss about this bottling. Perhaps a different batch would have been better. In this regard, the 12 years old @ 48% was much better.
C+ for the price. It's priced at 90$ (SAQ) and 95$ (LCBO). At best the inconsistency proven between different batches should be toned by a lower price point: 60-65$ would be acceptable. Besides, as it takes time to open and has a complex palate, which at some point can not so interesting, I would suggest a taste before buying. Make sure you do enjoy the batch before purchase.
A for presentation. The bottling is always attractive and the handwriting makes it even more appealing. 

Whisky review : The Dalmore 18 years old, bottled @ 43%

Whisky review : The Dalmore 18 years old, bottled @ 43%

-2nd Dalmore
-Out of range in terms of price (and considering the inconsistency in quality...)
-Clean and nice blue packaging, makes us remember the JW Blue

Colour: light gold, oily, long legs, looks thick in the glass. Much lighter in colour than the 12 years old. Thanks for toning down the caramel.

Nose: citrusy, sultana grapes, very fruity, floral notes, cold brown sugar, apples, light ashes but not smoke, a yellow lemon paste, candied fruits. A very interesting nose indeed !

Mouth: Light, smooth, very well settled in the glass. violet, quiet white pepper, butter toffee, dried grapes. But it fades a bit fast.

Finish: more grapes, artificial grape essence, and floral notes on the back of throat.

B for the taste. The nose was much more interesting than the taste. Strangely, the ''young'' dalmores (12, 15, 18) are not consistent in their quality. Sometimes, every glass is different....but not in a good way. It's interesting for a try, but I am not sure I would pay for this.
D- for the price. Considering it's 18 years old, I do agree on 100-120$ However, it's priced at 157$ (SAQ) and 175$ (LCBO). The Dalmore always overprices its bottling based solely on its name. I think they ought to reconsider this point. When quality is absent (or lacking), the prices cannot rise. Hence, for people wanting to try the Dalmore, I recommend either the 12 or a simple Bar try.
A+ for the presentation. Very cool bottle and elegant boxing.

retaste* 20 nov 2012

Colour: very dark, oily, very dark coppery

Nose: heavy caramel, fruity, caramel, fruit juice, grapes, dried grapes,

Mouth: chewy caramel, butter, cream, light grapes, dried fruits, toffee, fondant, hidden floral notes ,touches of sherry

Finish: caramel, vanilla, oak, creamy red fruits

retaste** 3 oct. 2013

Colour: dark copper tones, long legs, oily

Nose: very heavy caramel, sherry, spices

Mouth: thick buttery caramel, figs, light red fruits, raisins, long and spicy with notes of dry sherry

Finish : lingering caramel and sherry spices.

Very consistent so far...all I can say. I would say B+ for taste...but still I wouldn't buy considering the price.

Whisky review : GlenFarclas 105 bottled @ 60%

Whisky review : GlenFarclas 105 bottled @ 60%


-Cask strength
-1st review of Glenfarclas

Nose: dusty wood, walnuts, sultana, broken brown sugar, light nose but full of hints of flavors

Mouth: spices, nutty, buttery, sweet, juicy, grapes, more walnuts and butter, very complex. Toned down with water, you get more grapes, brown sugar, butter, nutty

Finish: some bitter notes, acidic grapes, oak, old oak, malt sugar. Not bad for a 10 years old ! Quite good might I say

B++ for the taste. Considering it's Cask Strength, you discover new flavours at every sip. Water also gives away new flavours. Very interesting malt indeed.
B+ for the price. At 73,5$ (SAQ), it's a little bit above the price point. I would rather say 60-65$ would be perfect. However, it remains a good purchase.
B for presentation. The label is weird...simply weird.

Whisky review : Premium Bottlers STRT 101 10 years old (Strathisla). Barrel 101, Bottle No.77 of 379. Bottled @ 46%

Whisky review : Premium Bottlers STRT 101 10 years old (Strathisla). Barrel 101, Bottle No.77 of 379. Bottled @ 46%

-A pure gem of Single Malt and a touch of canadian know-how
-No colouring added, and no chill-filtration
-46%
-Neat clean and sober bottling
-If still available, buy asap.
-Vatted malt from 99% Single Scottish malt and 1% Canadian Single malt


Colour: Bright gazing yellow, pure colour here. Very thin in the glass, very juicy....as the Strathisla should be.

Nose: Barley sugar, hints of floral notes, salt, sour apple mash, light minthy caramel toffee, apple vinegar.

Mouth: Sweet, arrival, very juicy, thin, but acidic, apples, Chili, pear, straw, caramel, light buttery notes. In this regard, might be compared to a Lowland whisky.

Finish: Leaves some bitter notes, bitter cucumber, green sappy wood, sweet, leaves more a feeling than a taste. Quite acidic by moments.

A for the price. For a ''dead'' producer, 51$ is a give away (yes it's called Still Water now) Only a few bottles left....I might buy another one. Look out for their other bottlings : BLAT....BRIN....Higher prices, could be well worth looking for as these from prime distilleries. (before they disappear)
B for the taste. It is not very complex whisky. However, worth a try and is very light yet flavourful malt to enjoy.
A for the presentation. Clean bottle. Mentions everything we would like to know. 

Whisky review : Talisker 10 years old, bottled @ 45.8%

Whisky review : Talisker 10 years old, bottled @ 45.8%

-Very nice whisky
-good price
-Should say if non chill-filtered or if no colouring added.

Nose : Peat, light peat, chilly oil, eucalyptus, depth of both peat and spices. Very intense and good nose.

Mouth: peat, chilly burn, cloves, more peat, herbal yet strong, juicy, not very oily, still full bodied and covers the mouth.

Finish: long peaty finish, the chili and the eucalyptus linger in the mouth. Long and strong finish.

A for the taste. A great whisky, every time. Deserves a try or even to have a bottle at home for long winter nights. Also, in a bar, for a few dollar more, worth comparing to the 57o.
B+ for the price. At 73,5$ (SAQ) and 80$ (LCBO), it's at an ''ok'' price point. For a perfect mark I would say 66-69$ would be a perfect price point. 80$ is a bit strong here.
A for the presentation, Nice Dark mystic blue carton and bottle. Intriguing. Like a Mariner's dram !

Whisky review: Ardbeg Corryvreckan, bottled @ 57.1%

Whisky review: Ardbeg Corryvreckan, bottled @ 57.1%

-Special edition
-Cask strength

Colour: Dark gold, thick gold.

Nose: Intense peat, tire, burned tar

Mouth: Intense peat, smoke, ashes, tar, sweet, woody, nothing new for an ardbeg that I've said before so.... water opens it to more wet tar...car tire. Not too stiff, yet, lots of ripples here. Not are settled as the 10. This malt seems a bit nervous, like it was bottled in a hurry.

Finish: lingering peat, smoke, thick peat.

B for the taste. Why ? Because there is nothing new here. The 10 is amazing. However,I was expecting more. Especially when you think that the Uigeadail is finish in Sherry Cask and is cheaper. I'm not sure I see the point in doing this ''special bottling''. I would rather say leave so it can be a 10y + bottle at Cask strength, Then we can talk.
E complete fail for the price. Forget these kind of special bottling. Overpriced...way over the top. Go for a 10 or even the Uigeadail, it is cheaper. at 162$ it is a complete rip-off. Sorry but not impressed here.
B for the packaging. Yes I do like the bottle, but ! it does not suffice to put a whirlwind on the label to make it fashionable.

Whisky review : Benromach Cask Strength, bottled @ 60%

Whisky review : Benromach Cask Strength, bottled @ 60%

-distilled in 2001, bottled in 2011

Colour: clear bright gold. Very interesting robe

Nose: Similar to PC9, white cool ashes, peat, sweet, eucalyptus, quite fire smoke. Very nice, tender and quite smoke and peat.

Mouth: sweet, spicy, light peachy, pear, peat, delicate peat, very interesting morning cold ashes and peat smoke. Very nice.

Finish: waves of smokes and acidic fruit.

A (almost +) for the taste. It's a great whisky. Very nice, reminds of PC, and very nice gentle Islay dram (while not being one)
B for the price. at 90$ (SAQ) its simply ok. I'd say 70$ would do. However, it is a must try. It will change your view on Benromach.
A for the presentation. Great bottling, soft colour and nice tubing.

Whisky review: Old Malt Cask Dufftown 28 years old L12043, bottled @ 60%

Whisky review: Old Malt Cask Dufftown 28 years old L12043, bottled @ 60%

-Cask strenght
-Distilled in 1982
-refill hogsheal
-non chilled-filtered

Colour: a bit darker than the previous CC, but still a kinda bright gold.

Nose: intense marmalade, eucalyptus, spirity, sweet, solar cream, blood oranges

Mouth: Calm arrival, spicy, sweet, thick and tingly, chili burn, pineapple. It is surprisingly soft for a cask strength. No need for water here. However if you do, it opens up to a more spicy fruit malt.

Finish: Sweet and acidic, no surprise there...but not a detailed finish here. Nothing quite good or bad.

B- for the taste. Its ok. But far from great. Plus considering the price, it becomes under the so-so bar. I'm not sure I can feel the cask influence here not the real flavours of this whisky. I'd consider it a tad blend even.
E for the price. 210$...yes yes it is 28 years old. Ok. But hey, the quality is not there. even at 100$ I would not recommend this. They should review their maturing or their cask. I feel the whisky is not getting enough of the cask qualities here.
A for the presentation. CC series are fun and serious !

Whisky review: Dufftown 1999 CC, Bottled @ 43%

Whisky review: Dufftown 1999 CC, Bottled @ 43%

Colour: Clear gold and oily. Looks much thicker than the previous 2

Nose: spicy, light, minty, sweet grapes, throat candy, more spices

Mouth: cover the mouth, lights sweet, creamy, wood, discreet yet satisfying. A great mix of fruity, spices and sweet.

Finish: lingering fruits, apples, white pepper, quiet spices. A good yet smooth finish.

A+ for the price. At 57$ it is at an excellent price-point. Worth to buy.Highly recommended to buy one before they ran out (SAQ).
A- for the taste. Very subtle but yet a very well rounded whisky here. It's a great one. Fresh yet settled and fruity.
A for the presentation. CC series....

Whisky review: Royal Brackla 1995 CC, bottled @ 46%

Whisky review: Royal Brackla 1995 CC, bottled @ 46%


Colour: very pale, bright gold, yet not very oily

Nose: woody, creamy, eucalyptus, not a very distinguished nose per se

Mouth: soft, fruity, melons, barley sugar, hint of spices but dies quickly. Hence I did not put water into it.

Finish: ishh floral.....nothing very intense here.....very subtle notes of sugary fruity and spicy spirit....but yet it is not clear.

B- for the taste. Not something I would go back to. It's too light for my taste, has not ''presence''
B for the price. 74$ for this is too much. Considering the age it is reasonable but...still. I'd pay 50ish for this as it is not a great whisky nor does it benefit from the G&Mc touches.
A for the packaging, same as the Aultmore. the CC is a great series.

Whisky review: Aultmore 1997 CC bottled @ 43%

Whisky review: Aultmore 1997 CC bottled @ 43%

Colour: Golden straw, bright. looks light in the glass.

Nose: sweet, fruity, malt sugar, sweet cinnamon. Very interesting nose.

Mouth: very sweet, spicy, fruits, dried grapes, apricot, hot apples, barley sugar, grassy, watery but yet full bodied. Very nice balanced - even if sometimes the spices are all over the place -

Finish: soft sweet fruity finish, acidic, peaches, apples,

A for the taste. Very spicy yet delicate taste, I recommend this one for a sip !
B+ for price, at 73$ (SAQ) its ok. If it were 60ish I'd say perfect. Still it's not a bad price.
A for the packaging, it looks like we are buying a serious whisky here ! 

Whisky review: Forty Creek Copper Pot reserve, bottled @ 43%

Whisky review: Forty Creek Copper Pot reserve, bottled @ 43%.

-Affordable
-follows the new Canadian releases
-Interesting concept, however, not sure why the ''pot'' is so important here as it is neither a ''pure pot'' nor a ''pot still''
-Above 40%....what more can I say

Colour: clear goldish-copperish colour. Not sure if it's really the copper influence (as most of the stills are) or the ''extra'' drop of E151 aka caramel. Not very oily, looks thin, very watery.

Nose: metal, spices, port wine, sherry, but a young off sherry. Cold sugary notes as well. In this regard I would command them for trying, but it remains very close to its cousin the regular forty creek.

Mouth: sherry, chili, sweet fortified wine, brown sugar but is quick to fade. It focuses mainly on a fruity floraly sweet sherry notes. In this way I would compare this very so-so release to the Sherry cask attempt by CC. Some people recommend to ''hoard it while you can'', I would suggest otherwise. The most promising release of a Canadian whisky this year might be the ''Dark Horse'': it is flavourful and it's got an excellent price point. They have announced the ''port cask'' finish as well. However, at 69, 99$ (LCBO), I'm not buying it. I've got better option for below 30$.

Finish: lingering sweet cheap sherry, annoyingly long....and sticky...metallic sherry.

A+ for the price. It's 28.45$ at the LCBO....just for the sake of trying it its well placed money.
B for the taste. Considering the provenance, I would expect so much more. They have time and money so...why not make a decent product next time ? No more caramel or ''pot colouring''....come on guys.
A for the bottling. It's different and nice. However, the label prevent the ''+''. It looks cheap or like a weird port/wine label (yes they are wine makes I know).

Whisky review: Speyburn single Malt 10 years old, bottled @ 40%

Whisky review: Speyburn single Malt 10 years old, bottled @ 40%

-limited ed.
-perfect for budget single malt

Colour: bright gold, oily but not too much.

Nose: apples, juicy, sweet, creamy vanilla, honey, honey wax, floral notes, fruity malt. Very interesting nose here.

Mouth: oak, sweet fruity notes, spices, creamy apple candies, apple drink, sweet wood, very good malt indeed. Not too complex but still it's an honest malt. Highly recommended for people who want to vary.

Finish: oak, sweet wood, cold brown sugar, toffee.

A+ for the price. at 40$ (LCBO) it's a great budget malt with only a few ripples. However, it's priced at 53$ at the SAQ. If it were to be the price I paid, I'd get down to B.
A for the taste. Great taste, light highland malt, with a few lowland notes.
B+ for the presentation. I'd toned down the green and change for a carton tubing.

Whisky review : Mac Na Mara Gaelic Blended Whisky bottled @ 40%.

Whisky review : Mac Na Mara Gaelic Blended Whisky bottled @ 40%.

-2nd Gaelic blend
-decent price
-Double mature Oak + ex-rum cask.

Colour: light brown, watery. It is a rum finish but I am tempted to say ''Caramel added'' still. It shows on the nose.

Nose: Spicy, sweet, juicy, light young rum, so-so cask selection, not very settled down here.

Mouth: sweet spicy arrival quickly goes to chili, light vanilla. Hints of cocoa taste and smoke, more on the palate. Nothing intense. Not a very strong personality here compared to the better Té Behag. (Same price range as well). Some orange notes.

Finish: chili burn, touches of apples, not very distinctive.

A for the price. At 34$ at the LCBO, it's a good calm and quiet whisky to sip. Not very suited for the enthusiast however.
B- for the taste. A poor cask selection and caramel are preventing what could be a better hand crafted whisky
E for presentation. It looks cheap and not attractive at all.

Whisky review : Oban 14 years old, bottled @ 43%

Whisky review : Oban 14 years old, bottled @ 43%

-60th review
-got it for cheap thanks to Guillaume

Colour: gold with hints of red. Looks thick and oily in the glass. Not sure it is natural colour or caramel has been added. Should be stated on the bottle.

Nose: fresh fruity notes, sweet, sweet malty notes, very juicy and appealing to say the least.

Mouth: fruits, peat, spices, chili, fresh sweet peat...but still a bit rough (considering its only 43%). Hot spicy chili-burning peat turning into eucalyptus. Leaves and acidic taste in the mouth as well. Would expect more from Oban and its 14 years matured spirit here. A great reminded of a toned down (on peat) Talisker for this matter..but it does not develop the same complexity. With water the burning cools down, more open on dried fruits, wee bit of marmalade, sour apricot.

Finish: An interesting malt from which I remember much better days. Getting a felling of bitter cocoa, grass, salt water but not ''wow'' factor.

B for the taste. I've had much better Oban than this. (Hence I do agree with Jim Murray on this one).
C for the price. This whisky is usually priced around 108$ at the SAQ and 106$ at the LCBO. If it were 85$ here in Canada, I would definitely put an A on it. However, since you can get it in USA for 59,99$, I strongly suggest buying it while on vacation.
B++ for presentation: Looks ok, tall and firm, but the tube is sad and not very eye catching at all.

Whisky review : Alberta Premium ''Dark Horse'' , bottled @ 45%

Whisky review : Alberta Premium ''Dark Horse'' , bottled @ 45%

-New great release of Alberta premium
-Great bottling
-Hopes this Canadian meets the need of connoisseur
-Regular twist-cap

Colour: orange coppery. very dark and oily, very long legs.

Nose: Ionized metal, a lot of spices, cinnamon, touches of Anise ,creamy coconut, some kind of hot and wet copper pan...very interesting yet bizarre, sherried wood and more spices, Tobacco leaves, captain black pipe tobacco. It's a very complex and thick nose for a Canadian whisky. Broken sugar pieces.

Mouth: Spices, Sherry arrival....then a boom of fruits (small red fruits...berries) on the palate followed by licorice, more spices, pepper notes, but more like a hot pepper. Acidic, yet not unpleasant. Touches of candied ginger, more and more sherry and spices, lots of it. Eucalyptus. The metallic nose is not in the taste for sure. I'm not sure I would add water to this as I feel it's already great neat.

Finish: It leaves a more intense sherry taste than the CC Sherry Cask. Yet this one is more balanced with spices and some hidden fruity notes. Yes a Canadian whisky with a finish, a real one!

A++ for the price, for less 30$ at the LCBO, it's a steal. A definite must try for the price. It's even cheaper than some of the Canadian Club or the Forty Creek.
A for the taste. I am amazed by this Canadian Whisky, I have to admit it. For 29ish dollar.....w.o.w Possible one to store or to buy asap.
A for the presentation. Great bottling, nice sober yet modern label. Highly recommended.

Whisky review : Bruichladdich PC8 Ar Duthchas (Port Charlotte), bottled @ 60.5%

Whisky review : Bruichladdich PC8 Ar Duthchas (Port Charlotte), bottled @ 60.5%

-PC9 available at the LCBO for 149$.
-Nice bottling of old and legendary distillery !


Colour: clear bright yellow, straw, similar to the Arran Bourbon Cask. No colouring here...

Nose: morning fire with white ashes and light smoke. intense yet tamed peat smoke, peat and more peat with fresh vanilla on the side, soft white cake. Incredible nose. It's like a peat fire controlled with vanilla and apple wood.

Mouth: green grass, wet straw, peat......more peat smoke, peat even more peat and this creamy vanilla feeling. Amazingly smooth for 60%. Water cools it down and opens it to a more spicy and lingering peat smoke. White pepper notes. Peated coated mouth is the term here. It's an aggressive peat but yet very mannered in the delivery. Incredible.

Finish : smoke, more peat smoke and lingering creamy sugary vanilla and chocolaty flavoured peat. One for the ages. An experience as much as an investment for sipping.

A++ for the taste. in one word : Wow.
A+ for presentation. the bottling is gorgeous, simple and sober yet elegant.
B- for the price. Listed at 140$ at the SAQ is....we have to admit, a fair price considering the intrinsic qualities of this spirit. It's bottled at cask strength and no colouring..non-filtered. A great product. I would recommend anytime (only if you are not on a budget).  An amazzzzzzing whisky !

Whisky review : Aberlour 12 years old Unchill-filtered, bottled @ 48%

Whisky review : Aberlour 12 years old Unchill-filtered, bottled @ 48%

-double matured in ex-sherry casks
-Bottled at 48%
-1st reviewed Aberlour

Colour : nice coppery tint, thanks to the sherry influence here. It's a very thick and oily whisky, with long legs.

Nose: raw sugar, dark chocolate, hand lotion, toffee, caramel. With a touch of water it opens on fruity notes, more spices and creamy sugary cane

Mouth: Spicy, very tingling, pear, apples, smooth ginger, white pepper. It coats the mouth with its hot and soft sherry notes. Lingering candied fruits. With a dash of water, it becomes spicier, light sugary paste, but fades faster.

Finish: long spicy and fruity, sugary finish. One to remember.

A for the taste. Simply put, it's a great whisky. Very well balanced and delivers a nice punchy flavor. Worth a try and sip...and another try.
B+ for presentation. The small ''wider'' bottler is nice.
B for the price. It's priced at 74,5$ at the SAQ, not available at the LCBO. Not quite sure I agree here. The regular 12 should be around 55$ to make room for this 60ish whisky. 75$ is a bit excessive. However, if money is not an issue, it's a safe bet.

retaste* 3 oct. 2013

Colour: light copper tones, medium bodied, nice sherry cask influence

Nose: spirity, touches of anise, light spices, broken sugar, light fruits, grapes.

Mouth: soft bread pudding, fruits, chili, the sherry seems off here compared to the first time. A bit sad...can't compare to its former self ! Just became a sad whisky. Does not worth the premium anymore.

Finish: chili, lingering spices, touches of sugar and sherry.

Very so so....sadly, it's not the Aberlour I've tasted before. I would advise to avoid it for the time being. B for taste.

Whisky review : Bowmore 15 years old ''Darkest'', bottled @ 43%

Whisky review : Bowmore 15 years old ''Darkest'', bottled @ 43%

-1st reviewed Bowmore
-I would say that Bowmore reaches high here, not sure I would venture above the 15y (price wise).
-released in 2007


Colour: As it is matured in Oloroso sherry casks, it is hard to say if the colouring is 100% natural or enhance by caramel.....Dark coppery, very oily

Nose: Peat, wet tar, I would compare this peat with a Laphroiag style one, smoke, dark chocolate, and sweet notes as well, behind the smoke and the peat are the Sherry notes and its fruity spiciness

Mouth: sweet peat, more peat, bitter chocolate, it's a calm spirit. Not too harsh. More peat smoke and broken raw sugar pieces.

Finish: lingering peat, sherry sweetness, smoke. It is a Bowmore, for sure. The sherry notes are very interesting here, it adds a new side to Bowmore, it makes it more appealing than the unfamous 12y. However, the sherry influence could be push more and the APV should be higher as well, 46 or 48%.

B++ very nice tasting whisky. The Sherry puts it above the 12y. I would like to see Bowmore doing a Cask strength release of this one....
B for presentation...same old Bowmore label and bottle
B- for the price. It's 96$ at the SAQ and 90$ at the LCBO. For 3 years of extra maturing, that can't be right. I would pin this one down to 70ish dollars. If so, then the price turns into a A. More than that, I would not buy. However, I strongly recommend trying it in a bar, it's a good value dram !

Whisky review: Bruichladdich First Growth Cuvée C: Margaux (Chateau Margaux) 16 Year Old, bottled @46% 700ml

Whisky review: Bruichladdich First Growth Cuvée C: Margaux (Chateau Margaux) 16 Year Old, bottled @46% 700ml

-Cask finish attempt by B
-Recommended 90$ in the USA...but 106$ at the SAQ
-Sad to say it is weird cask finish and hopefully they will put more time in selecting the Casks next time.
-Non-chill filtered. 

Colour: Copperish, oily, very thick, can see the redness of the wine coming out here...very long legs.

Nose: dark red fruits, mulberry, tiny breath of hidden peat, sweet, the kind of spicy sweetness one would expect out of a Sherry finish, a touch of creamy-nutty vanilla ointment in the back as well. Very interesting nose indeed.

Mouth: Strong spicy arrival, followed by a touch of floral and fruity, oak, soft almonds...but then turns into something not so fresh...almost like the wood (Cask) was not of premium quality. Old sandy bitter wood....then eucalyptus notes. Water does not really helps as well, just tone down the not-so-fresh parts.

Finish: clinch on the spiciness, but somehow fades very quickly in the mouth. Not as good as it advertise. And where is the peat ? not in this bottle....Not exquisite and surely did not worth the 14$/dram we paid for it.

C++ for the taste. I had better blends and much better (cheaper) Bruichladdich ! Waves, Rocks, PC4 and Black Magic. This one is a sad one...
A+ for presentation, very clean and sober but still trendy looking bottle and packaging.
C for price. Considering it's a 16y old, the price is reasonable. However, the taste reminds me of a much younger spirit, harsher and full of ripples. For this reason, it's way overpriced.

Whisky review : Tsingtao 17 years old - 40%

Whisky review : Tsingtao 17 years old - 40%

-1st and only time I was able to actually find ''real'' Chinese whisky !
-Bought in a Food Fair in 2011 and was not able to find it ever since.
-Very pricey
-Hardcore packaging
-Only had one glass...the bottle is dying on the shelf....

Colour:  nice yellow gold, pure. I would say no caramel. But then again, if it's not written it's hard to say.

Nose : a bit too spirity, very rough (indicating that it is a very young spirit and perhaps even a grainy whisky, not a single malt, apples, wood. This whisky needs to lay in the glass for a while before it settles down. After ten minutes or so, you get, behind the wood, a touch of medecinal oil. Still very spirity.

Mouth : spirity at first but cools down quick. Woody, Oak, not quite fresh, nutty...some corn, grass and a touch of ether !

Finish: Very short, sweet, nothing to be remembered. 

E for the taste. A very rough and young spirit. On the taste at least...considering it's a 17y matured spirit...it looses even more points ! If I were to guess, I'd say it's not even 3 years old. And then again why water this down to 40% since the it's so vague.
D- for the price. I paid 198RMB (33$) for this spirit. Simply way above a cheap blend.....in terms of price only.
A+ for presentation. The packaging (with magnet in the front) is cool. The frosted bottle is also very original. 

Whisky review: Connemara Irish peated Whiskey bottled @ 40%

Whisky review: Connemara Irish peated Whiskey bottled @ 40%.

-Very nice packaging

-1st peated Irish !

-very decent price

Colour: strong gold, medium bodied, I would assume, from the yellow colour that there is no Caramel here...

Nose: Peat, more peat, car tire, permanent marker but with some caramel sweetness to it, very Islay-grainy nose. I would say, considering the freshness, it's getting close to a Laphroaig Quarter cask (for the nose).

Mouth: Sweet green peat fire, bitter roasted grains, then fruity juicy peat, followed by a few dried fruits notes. Water accentuates the peat and some of the hidden spicy notes. but the bitter roasted grains remind of the Chinese bitter tea named ''Ku Ding''. It's not unpleasant but....it's the kind of green taste that should not be at the forefront.

Finish: Bitter grains, peat, lingering peat smoke, car tire, wet rubber. A great whisky for any Islay lovers who want to try something different but yet peaty !

A- for the taste, the bitter notes are sometimes not great.

A for the price, at 53$ SAQ (53,7$ LCBO), it's a great buy. Not sure I would buy the cask strength version (99$). I feel it's smooth and peaty.

A for the presentation. Lovely small bottle and great looking packaging.  

whisky review : Isle of Jura Prophecy bottled @ 46%

whisky review : Isle of Jura Prophecy bottled @ 46%

-1st reviewed Jura

-Very peaty

-A bit pricey

-Oloroso finish

-Limited annual release

Colour: Coppery gold.medium bodied

Nose: Peat, sweet fruity peat, spirity but not harsh, very round and gives the feeling of a high quality malt, iodine, spices,

Mouth: Direct sweet peaty arrival, more peat, fruity peat, a lot of spices, cinnamon. Influence of the Oloroso. Very fresh taste. Excellent malt, the most peated of the Jura range, but not as strong as the Laphroiag or even Ardbeg. Fresh peat but not medicinal tones or Iodine. However, very strong peat for an out of Islay Malt. A must try.

Finish: Sticky peat, lingering bitter and peaty, the tickling of the spices remains....quite good indeed.

A for the taste. Spicy and peaty is a great combination.My favourite of the Jura range so far.

B for the price. At 83$ at the SAQ and 89$ at the LCBO, it's a ok price. I would figure 75$ would do. However if you get the chance to sip a dram....do it. Wonderful malt.

A Nice bottling and the eye makes it mysterious. 

Retaste  20 nov. 2012

Colour: dark copper, medium bodied

Nose: Caramel, peat, iodine, spices, sweet spices, raw sugar

Mouth: peat, sweet, smoke of cigar, small fruits, wet straw, salt water, coastal breeze, light peat, algae, spice cake.

Finish: tingly, apricot, caramelized apples, light peat, smoke, lingering caramel and iodine. 

Retaste  June 13 2014

Colour: dark gold, light bodied

Nose: Sweet white smoke, light, a tad oily, peat associated to Benriach, light sweet salted notes.

Mouth: soft arrival, distant smoked meat, fake caramel taste, chili, salt, soft peat, tamed peat, touches of iodine and salted-sweet fruits.

Finish: lingering marine notes, sweet and distant yet present peat and white ashes.

Whisky review : Still Waters 1+11 Blended Canadian Whisky Batch No.1201 bottled @ 40%.

Whisky review : Still Waters 1+11 Blended Canadian Whisky Batch No.1201 bottled @ 40%.

-A new independent bottler

-Good price

-Looking forward for the next release.

Colour: light gold, oily, looks very thick in the glass. Very rare for a Canadian whisky not to have colouring or even a dark colour. If it's the case, the bottler should indicate the absence of caramel...

Nose: typical Canadian here, Corn, mashed corn, light coconut, not a very aggressive nose, like a quiet rum even. Pine cones, eucalyptus. Very similar to the Alberta premium but in a more relaxed way. Not as sweet as other Canadians....

Mouth: Soft arrival, vague sweet notes (quick to disappear) wood notes, white pepper, sweet-bitter notes like honey and bitter melon combined, Soft pine notes, it's a very gentle Canadian whisky, nothing like the others. It's round and gentle. However, it fades quickly in the palate. Good thing this you can feel, unlike other Canadians, the high quality of the spirit and how it was put together...no burn....nothing too harsh.

Finish: does not stay long.....leaves this bitter notes and eucalyptus.

B for the taste. It's not there yet, but very promising start. A must buy to drink or to collect. I can predict the next release will be amazing.

A+ for the price, at 29,65$ (LCBO), it's a great purchase.

C a big let down on the presentation here. I would pay 5$ more to get this bottle in a tubing or a box. Cork also seems very cheap. Advice : do not try to look high class if you can't, put a screw top or even a twist cap instead, not fake plastic ''cork''....

whisky review : Glenlivet Nàdurra 16 years old

whisky review : Glenlivet Nàdurra 16 years old, Batch No.1011A, bottled @ 48%

-Non-chill filtered

-1st Glenlivet to be reviewed

-Great quality product

-Sadly, previous versions were bottled at cask strength

Colour: Bright straw gold, natural brightness. Good points for Glenlivet for not having filtered this one.

Nose: Sweet, juicy, lilacs, floral notes, broken raw sugar, some hints of eucalyptus as well, apples, apple sappy wood, green wood,  Oatmeal vanilla-coconut cookies. Well it is 1st fill American oak ! From the nose, I would say they went easy on the chard. Very refined nose.

Mouth: creamy, sweet, very fruity, a slight burn as well. Candies, vanilla, you can taste the green wood here, it's fresh, it's vibrant wood. But only in terms sweetness, not in terms of wood notes. Apples, green apples, sappy wood. Some floral notes as well. A very interesting Whisky to say the least. Water takes some of the chilly heat off. It becomes more floral and turn more into the green wood influence. Quite good.

Finish: leaves a bitter white tea note, nothing too harsh. Sweetness, honey, apples. Some acidic notes as well, but might be from the 48%. Those bitter notes are most interesting, like the aftertaste of chewing sappy wood....

A for taste. Super Glenlivet here. Very rich and interesting. A must try

A+ for presentation, it's wrap in the box...

B++ for the price. At 80-82$ it's ok. A pit pricey but a good purchase still.Weirdly I saw the Nàdurra bottled at Cask Strength today (SAQ)...how come mine was only at 48%...weird...

Whisky review : Monkey Shoulder, Blended whisky bottled @ 40%

Whisky review : Monkey Shoulder, Blended whisky bottled @ 40%

-Very interesting blend
-Good retail price
-Catchy name

Colour: Light bright gold, pale for a blend.

Nose: Fresh cold apples, fruity, juicy, sweet candied fruit, like green apple paste. Nose reflects a certain sherry influence here, hence I would think some sherry matured whiskies are involved in this blend.

Mouth: Gentle, full bodied, sweet fruity, soft sweet but does not peak into the mouth. From its delicate taste, I would suggest that mostly lowland and highland malt are involved here. Water drowns the malt here...not a good idea. This blend has an original nose and a very fruity, sweet and a bit spicy arrival. A definite must-try blend for the money. It's one to be tried and retried.

A for the presentation, the monkeys on the bottle add a je ne sais quoi to it. looks great.
B+ for the taste, but still considering B. This blend has a nice arrival, but fades a bit too quickly for my taste.
A for the price. It's marketed at 35$ (in US). I would gladly pay 35$ for it.

Whisky review : Auchentoshan 18 years old, bottled @ 43%

Whisky review : Auchentoshan 18 years old, bottled @ 43%

-4th Auchentoshan
-bottled at 43%
-Last of my Auchentoshan mini-series

Colour: brighter than the 12 years old. strawy-gold.

Nose: soft caramel, toffee, smells more like a well sat malt, but it's still less interesting than the 12 years old. Some leather notes, like an old brandy. When water is added, it turns into a more bourbon sweet spirity nose, sweet cereal, like cooked corn.

Mouth: Smooth, spicy, chilli, but not too rough, then turns into sweet tingly white peppery notes that lingers on the tongue. When water is added, it delivers some delicate sweet notes, like the Arran Bourdon cask, baked apples on the teeth, a more gentle yet spicy apricot jam malt.

Finish: leaves a wood sap, green wood flavour, yet spicy.

B+ for the taste
A for the presentation
E for the price.It can find in Edmonton for 109,99$. It's way above the price point for this malt. I know it's 18 years old but still, there's room for improvement. Does not quite feel like a real mature malt. I would say, considering the age, 70$. Not a penny more. (The MRP for this one is around 89$). This is one those malt that, like the Glenfiddich, that reaches its potential at lower ages.