Cult of Islay 2012 Murray McDavid - 50,0%

The independent bottlers at Murray McDavid see themselves as masters of cask finishing, which they impressively demonstrate with this single malt distilled in 2015. The spirit comes from a distillery steeped in tradition near the River Findhorn, whose name is closely linked to the juniper bush and which is one of the pioneers of the single malt world. After eight years of maturation, completed by a complex finish in port, Madeira and Barolo casks, the spirit presents itself in a natural, deep copper colour. With a limited edition of 1602 bottles, this whisky remains an exclusive puzzle for discerning explorers. On the nose, an elegant interplay of dark fruit, creamy malt notes and fine nougat praline unfolds. On the palate, at a powerful 53,5 % vol, the bottling shows its full intensity: rich notes of fruit cake and red berries meet dark chocolate and the subtle spice of candied ginger. The finish is long and full of character, marked by savoury caramel, fresh walnuts and a pinch of black pepper that blends harmoniously with the gentle oak spice. Tasting Notes Nose: An inviting bouquet of creamy malt and dark fruit is accompanied by the fine sweetness of fine nougat pralines.Palate: Intense chocolate and red berries meet the spicy note of candied ginger and the richness of a juicy fruit cake on the palate. Finish: The finish shows dark caramel and walnut, accompanied by elegant oak spice and a subtle peppery note.

Behind this whisky lies the expertise of the independent bottler Murray McDavid, known for its creative cask selection. Distilled in 2014, this single malt spent its nine years of maturation partly in small Koval rye quarter casks. These special casks from a renowned Chicago distillery give the robust spirit an additional layer of spice and structure, which ideally complements the maritime heritage of the spirit and provides remarkable depth. The nose reveals a dense cloud of peat, underpinned by creamy malt and a delicate sweetness. On the palate, at a powerful 51.1% ABV, the whisky unfolds a complex profile of grilled apricots and smoky BBQ aromas, accompanied by vanilla and a surprising tropical fruitiness. The finish is long and oily, recalling a dying campfire on the beach, while the natural golden colour in the glass underlines the purity of the spirit. Tasting Notes Nose: Pronounced smoke and earthy peat meet juicy apple notes and the soft elegance of creamy malt.Palate: A combination of grilled apricot and tropical fruit notes unfolds on the palate, accompanied by fine vanilla and a spicy depth. Finish: Long and full of character, with oily textures and the intense aroma of a campfire.

The distillery was founded in 1812 by Captain William Fraser, making it one of the oldest distilleries in the world. In 1833, it was appointed the first Royal Warrant holder by King William IV; since then, the malt has also been known as the "King's Whisky." Crafted with exceptional care, this classic Highland Single Malt is truly unique in quality and flavor. Matured in the finest sherry casks, it develops into a magnificent, rich whisky featuring fruity aromas and subtle spicy notes. Distillery style: fresh, floral, and fruity. Highly balanced and complex, with notes of apple and pear, a hint of spice and nuts, and a distinct sherry character.

This blended whisky comes from the independent bottler Murray McDavid.

Mortlach is the oldest distillery in Dufftown, the heart of Speyside. Founded in 1823 on the banks of the Dullan, it draws its water from the Conval Hills. Its whisky is distilled using a unique process involving six stills—one of which bears the delightful name "Wee Witchy" (Little Witch).

Glentauchers (Valley of the Wind) was founded in 1898 by James Buchanan in Mulben, near Keith, and is one of the Speyside distilleries. Its whisky is highly regarded by many experts, but has only become more widely available in independent bottlings in recent years.

Linkwood was founded in 1821 by Peter Brown and completely rebuilt in 1871 by his son William. It is located south of Elgin, surrounded by woods, close to the Lossie River, on a 4-hectare, park-like estate in Speyside. The water comes from springs at Loch Milbuis. Linkwood is now owned by Diageo.

The Mannochmore Distillery was founded in 1971 by John Haig & Co. In 1985, the distillery was shut down for about four years, so Mannochmore has only been available as a single malt since 1992. A unique feature of the distillery is that it produces only in the winter. It is located on the same grounds as the Glenlossie Distillery and is also operated by its staff.

The “tea-spooned” blended malt The Fiddichside 1989/2024 was distilled on the Fiddich River in Speyside. It was aged for a total of 28 years and finished in a PX sherry cask.

North British was founded in 1895 by the North British Distillery Company. The distillery was independent until 1983 and today belongs to Diageo. Production volume is around 5 million litres of alcohol per month.

The distillery Ardmore is located south of Huntley in Kennethmont next to the railway that connects Aberdeen and Inverness. Sometimes it is stated that it lays in the Speyside and other times in the eastern Highlands. It was built in 1890 by the company Wm Teacher and Sons. Since 1978 Ardmore owns eight stills. Compared to other distilleries the history of this one was without any troubles. It was property of the founders for a long time, since 2005 it belongs to Jim Beam.

The Glengoyne 2014/2026—featuring rare naming rights—was treated to maturation exclusively in bourbon casks. This perfectly highlights the distillery’s rich, fruity character, with notes of sweet pastry, banana, citrus zest, and vanilla.