Whiskey Book
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Whiskey Book
Welcome to our Worden Hall Whiskey Book, and in depth menu featuring every selection from our extensive whiskey list. Whether you're looking for something new to try or something to read along to while you sip and ponder over the whiskey in your glass, we hope you enjoy the digital catalogue we have created. Cheers!
Table Of Contents
Chapter One1– Table Of Contents
– Tasting Boards
– Collections
– Bourbon
Chapter Two2– Single Malt Scotch Whisky
– Blended Scotch Whisky
– Rye Whiskey
– Irish Whiskey
Chapter Three3– Japanese Whisky
– Tennessee Whiskey
– Canadian Whisky
Chapter Four4– Small Batch & Specialty Grain
– White Whiskey
Taste your way through a selection of curated flight boards. Each flight features four 1oz pours of our whiskies, displayed on our handmade boards of reclaimed whiskey stave.
Rye Flight
Flight:45• Redemption Rye
• Michters Straight Rye
• Black Maple Oregon Rye
• High West Rendezvous Rye
––Rye whiskey is made from a minimum of 51% rye in the mashbill, often blended with barley or corn. It is not uncommon to find rye whiskey that is 95-100% rye. An American classic, it is aged in charred oak barrel and was the original spirit used in popular cocktails like the Manhattan, Old Fashioned, and Sazerac.
Buffalo Trace Distillery
Flight:35• Eagle Rare
• EH Taylor
• W.L. Weller Special Reserve
• Blantons
––Buffalo Trace is the oldest continuously operating distillery in America, 200 years old to be exact. Family owned and located in Franklin County, Kentucky, the distillery’s rich history includes such legendary distillers as E.H. Taylor Jr, Albert B. Blanton and W.L. Weller. In this flight you will have the pleasure of experiencing these three legendary distillers.
Heaven Hill Distillery
Flight:35• Elijah Small Batch
• McKenna 10 Year
• Larceny
• Bernheim Wheat
––Founded in 1935 in Bradstown, Kentucky and the only large family-owned distillery company headquartered in Kentucky. The company was founded as a bourbon distillery, and for most of its existence has been concentrated on its flagship bourbon labels, Elijah Craig and Bernheim Wheat.
Tour of Scotland
Flight:65• Glenfiddich IPA Cask
• Oban 14 year
• Talisker 10 year
• Cragganmore 12 year
––Single Malt Scotch is made only from malted barley, in two (occasionally three) copper pot stills by a batch process. Single Malt Scotch are made by individual distillery. In this flight you will get a tour of Scotland as you experience some of the most awarded selections of Scotland.
Pernod Ricard
Flight:45• Jefferson Very Small Batch Bourbon
• Rabbit Hole Cavehill Bourbon
• Rabbit Hole Boxergrail Straight Rye
• Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve Single Malt
––Entrepreneurial story that began in 1805 with the creation of Pernod and then in 1932 of Ricard. From 1975, the two families merged, creating the next chapter that spans the globe and over forty years of progress and success. This flight shows the vast difference of the group’s collections throughout the forty years in business.
Rare whiskey is hard to find, but easily appreciated. Each of the labels in our "Collections" category are single year releases, and when the final drop is poured we will say goodbye to them forever. Due to their uniqueness, we recommend spending time with each pour contemplating the color, nose, palate, and finish.
Featuring selections from The Old Rip Wan Winkle Distillery, Heaven Hill Distillery, and Buffalo Trace Distillery.
Complementary bottles of Saratoga Spring Water available to accompany any overproof whiskey from our Collection.
Van Winkle Collection
Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery
Frankfort, KY–The Old Rip Van Winkle Distillery has a four-generation history. In 1935 at the age of 61, Pappy opened the newly completed Stitzel-Weller Distillery in South Louisville. Their prominent brands were W.L. Weller, Old Fitzgerald, Rebel Yell, and Cabin Still. He had a heavy influence on operations there until his death at the age of 91.
All of the Van Winkle bourbons are made with corn, wheat, and barley instead of corn, rye and, barley. This “wheated” recipe gives the bourbon a much softer, smoother taste and it also allows the whiskey to age more gracefully.
Due to this selection’s reputation, its availability is extremely limited.
Old Rip VanWinkle 10 Year42107 proof, 10 years old
Despite being the youngest of the annually released Van Winkle vintages, Old Rip Van Winkle 10 provides an otherworldly tasting experience. A splash of limestone well-water is added before bottling to keep it as close to barrel proof as possible. Strong vanilla and toasted wood flavors with caramel, roasted nuts, and a long, spicy finish.
Pappy Van Winkle 12 Year5590.4 proof
Van Winkle Special Reserve is the perfect combination of age and proof. This sweet, full-bodied whiskey has been described by some as “nectar.” The 12 years of aging and medium proof seem to be just right in creating a very pleasant drink of whiskey. This fine bourbon can compete with any excellent cognac as an after-dinner drink. The overall impression is rich and deep.
Pappy Van Winkle 15 Year100107 proof
The first expression from the “Family Reserve” series, this bourbon features the iconic image of Pappy Van Winkle himself on the label smoking his cigar. Bottled at 107 proof after resting in the Buffalo Trace rickhouses for an impressive 15 years, this whiskey has proven to be among the most highly sought after bourbons in the world. The nose is woody, but balanced with nuttiness, toffee, and rum-like notes. The palate is buttery with caramel richness. Finishes with exotic spice, which is long and rich.
Heaven Hill Collection
Heaven Hill Distillery
Bardstown, Kentucky–At the historic intersection of 17th Street and Breckenridge Street
in downtown Louisville sits Heaven Hill’s Bernheim Distillery: the world’s largest independent, family-owned Bourbon distillery, producing 1,300 barrels a day. As founders of Heaven Hill Distillery, the Shapira family has been at the helm of the largest independent, family-owned and operated distillery in America since 1935.
Old Fitzgerald 11 Year Bourbon42Spring 2018, 100 proof
– In early 2018 Heaven Hill announced the beginning of the Old Fitzgerald Bottled-In-Bond series, and kicked off the bi-annual release with this 11 year old 100 proof bourbon, following strict Bottled-In-Bond government regulations and adorned with the characteristic Spring 2018 seal. The nose boasts fragrant notes of fresh biscuits, sweet custard, and tempered oak. The palate is excellent, with a balance of vanilla and caramel, undertones of lemon and sweet fruit, and buttery oak. The finish is of fleeting dry oak.
Elijah Craig Barrel Proof 20Heaven Hill Distillery, Bardstown, KY, 132.8 proof
– Named after the father of Bourbon Rev. Elijah Craig this limited release Small Batch, twelve-year-old Bourbon is bottled at Barrel Proof and without chill filtering, preserving the natural flavors produced during the aging process. Featuring notes of caramel and vanilla with backend spices of peppercorn and cinnamon.
Parker’s Heritage Collection
Heaven Hill Distillery
Bardstown, Kentucky–Each year as part of the Parker’s Heritage Collection, Heaven Hill Distillery selects one special whiskey to be released in the name of their late Master Distiller, Parker Beam, who died of ALS in 2017. The barrels selected for this series include Bourbon, Rye, and Wheat Whiskeys, among others, and are some of the finest and most diverse American Whiskeys ever produced. They are a fitting tribute to the expertise of Parker Beam. A portion of proceeds from these bottles is donated yearly to ALS funding and research.
8 Year Old Kentucky Straight Malt Whiskey222015, 108 Proof
– One of the last whiskies of the series to be hand-selected by Parker Beam himself, this eight-year-old whiskey features a mash of 65% malt and 35% corn from the Bernheim Distillery, then aged at Heaven’s Hills Bardstown rick house. Featuring a gentle mix of maple, leather, and pine lie underneath an umbrella of pronounced oak, it is surprisingly smooth at 108 proof, with a finish dominated by oak and mellow sweetness.
11 Year Single Barrel Bourbon522017, 122 Proof
– Our bottle of the 2017 release features bourbon drawn from barrel #4748018 which was hand selected from Parker Beam’s favorite rickhouse in Deatsville, Kentucky. Clocking in at a cask strength 122 proof, this bourbon offers a delightful nose of tobacco, raisin, and cherry. The palate intensifies with heavy oak and cinnamon spice which fades into candy corn and baking spice. The finish is of powerful oak and spice.
Heavy Char 8 Year Straight Rye382019, 105 proof
– The first rye whiskey release of the Heritage series, this spirit takes the standard Heaven Hill rye mashbill and ages it for 8 years and 9 months in Level 5 char barrels. Unlike the standard Level 3 char, Level 5 fires the inside of the barrels for a full 90 seconds before filling with white spirit. The additional char is said to allow the whiskey to extract deeper notes of spice and wood in the resulting flavor. Rye spice, barrel char and heat dominate the nose. Dark fruits and leather define the palate with a crescendo of spice, followed by a strong finish of seasoned oak, clove and baking spices, and caramel.
Heavy Char 10 Year Straight Bourbon432020, 120 proof
– Following in the footsteps of the 2019 Heavy Char Rye release, this bottle uses the same Level 5 char barrels to create a 10 year old straight bourbon. Though it boasts increased age and proof, this whiskey drinks with a intriguingly balanced character between bold oak notes and classic bourbon caramel and spice. A rambunctious nose of vanilla and heavy char gives way to a palate of vanilla, dark cherries, and punchy spice.
Buffalo Trace Collection
Buffalo Trace Distillery
Frankfort, Kentucky–Ancient buffalo carved paths through the wilderness that led American pioneers and explorers to new frontiers. One such trail led to the banks of the Kentucky River where Buffalo Trace Distillery has been making bourbon whiskey the same way for more than 200 years. Many of their bourbons are named in honor of past Buffalo Trace Master Distillers who have contributed to the craft of bourbon in ways that changed the spirit across the country. The distillery is a designated National Historic Landmark.
George T Stagg 201886124.9 proof, 15 Year, 4 Month
– The highest rated Stagg release in the last half decade, this 124.9 proof bourbon delivers a depth of flavor and intrigue that cuts through the heat that other bourbons of the same proof would be characterized by. The nose starts subtle and inviting, with notes of sweet raisin, brown sugar, and rye spice. Burnt caramel and cherry dance between earthy oak and vanilla on the mouth, finishing in with a hit of rye spice and tobacco.
George T Stagg 201964116.9 proof, 15 Year, 4 Month
– Uncharacteristically low proof for the series, the 2019 Stagg proves itself among the collection by delivering a rich and flavorful sip. The lower proof allows for a more boisterous bouquet of aroma from the glass, with notes of sweet cinnamon bark, chocolate, and Mexican vanilla bean. The palate is rich, yet refined, with a spicy but manageable heat.
George T Stagg 202075130.4 proof, 15 Year, 4 Month
– The nose is light – take a moment swirling to let it open up and experience notes of rum-soaked dark fruit, cigar box, and burnt caramel. Spiced vanilla and leather dominate the palate, rich but not overpowering, with a long and complex finish of cinnamon, graham cracker, and heat.
Rockhill Farms Single Barrel 22 100 proof
Named for the rich farmland along the Kentucky River, Rock Hill Farms is part of Buffalo Trace’s Bourbon Mashbill #2 family. With the exception of Ancient Age, Mashbill #2 based bourbons are currently composed of only single barrel offerings. The limestone waters of the Kentucky River that wind through Bluegrass country and alongside Buffalo Trace Distillery nourish the land and provide the distinct flavor to Rock Hill Farms. Summer cherries, light hay, and baked apple waft out of the glass. Spice notes dance between flavors of leather and toasted vanilla, with a blast of rye spice on the finish accompanied by evergreen and oak.
Thomas H Handy Sazerac 201634126.2 proof
– Dark chocolate, raisins layered in with dried leather and aged oak. The nose will have you interested on the palate that brings you a sweeter dose of rye spice along with raisins, honey and toffee. This year’s Handy is found to be bolder and tastier than previous releases.
Bourbon has been distilled in the United States since the days of the American Revolution. It was not until May 4, 1964 that Congress recognized it as a “distinctive product of the United States.” Under federal regulations, bourbon is a whiskey distilled at no more than 160 proof from a fermented mash of no less than 51% corn. The balance of the mash may be any other grain but is generally rye and barley. The product must be aged in new charred American oak barrels
Bourbon
Angel’s Envy 15Louisville Distilling Co., Louisville, KY, 86.6 proof
– Small batch and hand blended, each barrel of Angel’s Envy is finished in select ruby port barrels made from French Oak and imported directly from Portugal. Subtle notes of vanilla and maple permeate the palate with a lingering finish of toasted nut and Madeira. Some portion of whiskey is lost during the aging process, known as the “Angel’s Share.” After tasting the finished whiskey, Master Distiller Lincoln Henderson joked that they had finally gotten a better deal than the angels. And so Angel’s Envy was born.
Basil Hayden 13James B. Beam Distilling Co, Clermont, KY, 80 proof
– The recipe dates back to 1796, when Basil Hayden himself was a master distiller. Hayden was born and raised in Maryland, where he learned to make whiskey from rye. When he came to Kentucky, Hayden began making whiskey from a base of corn, but added a higher percentage of rye than other distillers, resulting in a smooth, mild Bourbon that was distinctly his own.
Blanton’s Single Barrel 16Blanton’s Distilling Co, Frankfort, KY, 93 proof
– Taken from the center-cut or middle sections of the famous Warehouse H, Blanton’s Original was once designated for ambassadors, dignitaries, and Colonel Blanton’s family and friends. Today, everyone has access to the world’s first single barrel Bourbon. The taste profile is sweet with citrus and oak. A creamy vanilla nose features hints of nuts, caramel, orange and light chocolate. Blanton’s Original set the standard for single barrel Bourbons.
Booker’s 20James B. Beam Distilling Co, Clermont, KY, 127 proof
– Having the highest alcohol content of all the brands in the Jim Beam Small Batch Bourbon collection it has the cask strength of a Bourbon. It was personally selected by Jim Beam’s grandson, the late distiller emeritus Booker Noe. Noe originally bottled this straight from the barrel Bourbon as gift to close friends and family, but eventually made it available to the general public, starting in 1992. Booker’s Bourbon is aged between six and eight years and is bottled un-cut and without chill filtering at its natural proof between 121 and 130.
Buffalo Trace 9.50Buffalo Trace Distillery, Frankfort, KY, 90 proof
– The flagship Bourbon of the distillery. Within the past decade, Buffalo Trace has won more awards than any other distillery in the world, including an unmatched seven “Distillery of the Year” titles. Outstanding aroma with deep oak and vanilla notes.
Bulleit 10Bulleit Distilling Co, Lawrenceburg, KY, 80 proof
– As a tavern keeper in Louisville, year 1830, Augustus Bulliet began producing small batches of bourbon. Relentless in his pursuit of perfection, he experimented with different recipes and Bulleit Bourbon was born. It is the highest Rye Bourbon on the market today, giving it a slightly spicy and sweet mouth feel with notes of Christmas oranges and cloves.
Bulleit 10 Year 15Bulleit Distilling Co., Lawrenceburg, KY, 90 proof
– Tom Bulleit’s select reserve. Each barrel is hand picked and set aside for ten years, maturing into a special expression of bourbon that’s rich and incredibly smooth. Winner of the gold medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition for three consecutive years, this whiskey boasts rich, oaky aromas and flavors of vanilla, dried fruit, and smoke.
Eagle Rare 11Buffalo Trace Distillery, Frankfort, KY, 90 proof
– Masterfully crafted and carefully aged for no less than 10 years, each barrel is discriminately selected. The rareness of this great breed of Bourbon is evident in its complex aroma of toffee and orange peel followed by a bold and dry taste with notes of candied almonds.
E.H. Taylor, Jr. Small Batch 11Buffalo Trace Distillery, Frankfort, KY, 100 proof
– As founding father of the bourbon industry, Colonel Edmund Haynes Taylor, Jr. left an indelible legacy. His dedication to distilling began at the close of the Civil War when he purchased O.F C. Distillery. There, he developed innovative techniques that are still in use today. This E.H. Taylor Small Batch bourbon is a true sipping bourbon that honors the uncompromising legacy of E.H. Taylor, Jr.
Elijah Craig Small Batch 11Heaven Hill Distilleries Inc, Bardstown, KY, 94 proof
– Back in the 1700’s a Baptist minister by that name actually invented the process of aging whiskey in charred oak barrels. Today, this super premium small batch Bourbon remains one of the finest on the market.
Evan Williams Single Barrel 10Heaven Hill Distilleries, Bardstown, KY, 86.6 Proof
– Medium amber color with sweet notes of vanilla and rich caramel
Four Roses Yellow Label 9Four Roses Distillery, LLC, Lawrenceburg, KY, 80 proof
– A worldwide favorite, especially when creating cocktails with a sophisticated and contemporary flair.
Four Roses Small Batch 10Four Roses Distillery, LLC, Lawrenceburg, KY, 90 Proof
– Hand selected barrels from Four Roses’ four different bourbon recipes are blended to create perfect balance of richness and mellow character. Rich fruits and sweet caramel on the nose give way to creamy flavors of ripened red berry and balanced spice.
Four Roses Single Barrel 12Four Roses Distillery Ltd, Lawrenceburg, KY, 100 proof
– Four Roses produces ten distillate flavors each year and ages each flavor individually in new white oak charred barrels. Each flavor is distinctively different, but floral and fruity aromas and the smoothness and mellowness of their taste characterize all flavors. Jim Rutledge carefully selects one of the ten Bourbon flavors Four Roses produces for their Single Barrel and the Bourbon connoisseur. The additional flavor characteristics of this Bourbon include notes of honey and maple syrup plus hints of cinnamon and nutmeg.
Henry McKenna 10 Year 13Heaven Hill Distilleries Inc, Bardstown, KY, 80 proof
– In 1837 Henry McKenna settled in Kentucky from Ireland, bringing with him a family tradition of whiskey making. He soon feel in love with the style of Bourbon and the rest is history. As the oldest regularly released Bottled-In-Bond bourbon, this whiskey delivers real whiskey with real history. Satin-smooth oak and burnt sugar backdrop follow a nose of herbal spice and orange rind.
Jefferson VSB 13Kentucky Artisan Distillers in Crestwood, KY, 90.2 proof
– Jefferson’s Very Small Batch is a blend of base Jefferson’s bourbon – a simple, yet substantial whiskey – with 3 additional hand-selected straight bourbons of varying mash bills and ages. This creates a whiskey of consistent quality while allowing for complex nuances to express themselves in each new batch.
Jefferson Ocean 13Kentucky Artisan Distillers in Crestwood, KY, 90.2 proof
– Aboard the deck of a ship, barrels of Jefferson’s Ocean bourbon travel to 25 ports, 5 continents, and cross the equator 2 times. This bourbon is Aged At The Mercy of The Sea. Notes of salted caramel popcorn and tropical fruit on the nose as well as on the palate.
Jim Beam 7James B. Beam Distilling Co., Clermont, KY, 80 proof
– During the late 18th century, the Bohm Family, who later changed the spelling of their name to Beam, immigrated from Germany to America. In 1943, the brand name was changed from “Old Tub” to “Jim Beam”, after James Beauregard Beam, and some of the bottle labels bear the statement, “None Genuine Without My Signature” with the signature of James B. Beam.
Kentucky Tavern 5Barton Brands Ltd., Bardstown, KY, 80 proof
– Authentic brand, in existence for more than 110 years.
Knob Creek 12James B. Beam Distilling Co, Clermont, KY, 100 proof
– Named after Abraham Lincoln’s boyhood home in Kentucky, Knob Creek is Bourbon at its finest. This specially hand-crafted Bourbon was created to represent whiskey before it was mass produced. Aged nine years in wood, Knob Creek embodies the look, feel and taste of pre-prohibition Bourbon with distinct notes of cherry.
John E. Fitzgerald ‘Larceny’ 8Heaven Hill Distillery, Bardstown, KY, 92 proof
– Selected by Master Distillers and made with wheat as the secondary grain instead of rye, Larceny is a smoother tasting bourbon.
Makers Mark 9.50James B. Beam Distilling Co, Loretto, KY, 90 proof
– A solid Bourbon with a strong corn, wood, and floral nose.
Maker’s 4610James B. Beam Distilling Co, Loretto, KY, 94 proof
-This bourbon was not intended to compete with the core expression, instead it’s a cousin to it, something different for those that like spicy whiskey. They add this extra dimension by inserting seared French oak staves into the barrels.
Old Forester 7Brown Foreman Distillery, Louisville, KY, 86 proof
– Heat and spice with a medium length spicy fade out finish.
Rabbit Hole Cavehill 16Rabbit Hole Distiller, Louisville, KY, 95 proof
– When sipped, you experience honey, mint, creamy orange. As you continue it through your palate, you get more involved with custard and vanilla.
Rabbit Hole Dareringer 25Rabbit Hole Distiller, Louisville, KY, 93 proof
– Dareringer is perfectly sweet with the smallest kiss of spice. This charming whiskey invites you in with an intoxicating nose of sherry and cherry. Raisins and currants coupled with hints of almond and vanilla on the palate.
Rowan’s Creek 9Kentucky Bourbon Distillers, Ltd, Bardstown, KY, 100.1 Proof
– Rowan’s Creek is made and bottled by hand, in small lots, one batch at a time. A lightly fruity nose with moderate oak.
Russell Reserve 10 Year 10Austin, Nichols Distilling Co., Lawrence, KY, 90.6 Proof
– A genuine wheated Straight Bourbon Whiskey, hand-crafted and small batched from the original secret Weller family recipe.
Virginia Gentleman5A Smith Bowman Fredericksburg, VA, 90 proof
– Oldest family owned bourbon distillery in the US.
Wild Turkey 7Wild Turkey Distillery, Lawrenceburg, KY, 81 Proof
– A deep but soft aroma with a taste of vanilla and caramel.
Willett Pot Still Reserve 10.50Willett Distillery, Lawrenceburg, KY, 114.8 Proof
– The nose starts with brown sugar followed by black cherry, plum, rye spices, substantial oak, and subtle hints of vanilla and caramel. The palate explodes with spice, black pepper, vanilla, caramel and oak. The finish is never ending with subtle fruit and spice.
Woodford Reserve 11Labrot & Graham Distillery, Versailles, KY, 90.4 Proof
– Has a delicate woody sweetness, but not quite as potent on the nose. The finish is long and dry with a flowery twist, and lingering wood.
Woodford Reserve Double Oaked 16Labrot & Graham Distillery, Versailles, KY, 90.4 Proof
– Uniquely matured in separate, charred oak barrels – the second barrel deeply toasted before a light charring – extracts additional soft, sweet oak character.
Single Malt Scotch is whisky made in Scotland using a pot still distillation process at a single distillery, with malted barley as the only grain ingredient. As with any Scotch whisky, a Single Malt Scotch must be distilled in Scotland and matured in oak casks in Scotland for at least three years (most single malts are matured longer).
Single Malt Scotch
Arran 10 Year16Isle of Arran Distillers LTD, Isle of Arran, Scotland, 92 Proof
Balvenie Double Wood 12 Year 18The Balvenie Distillery Company LTD, Speyside, Scotland, 80 Proof
– A rich whisky gaining distinction from two separate woods. During its period of maturation the whiskey is transferred from a traditional oak whiskey cask to a first fill Spanish oak sherry cask. Each stage lends a different quality to the resulting single malt – the casks having previously held bourbon, soften and add character, whilst the sherry wood brings depth and fullness of flavor.
Balvenie 21 Year Old Port Wood Finish 55The Balvenie Distillery Company LTD, Speyside, Scotland, 95.2 Proof
– A marriage of rare Balvenie is transferred to port casks, or pipes, which have held fine port wines. Here it is sampled regularly by the The Balvenie Malt Master to ensure that just the right amount of character is imparted by the port casks, enhancing and developing the single malt whisky preserving its original characteristics. The palate is refined with remarkable character, creamy and silky with fruit, honey, and spice notes. The finish is long and gentle.
Cragganmore 12 Year 15Cragganmore Distillery Co., Speyside, Scotland, 80 Proof
– A combination of sweet floral fragrances, riverside herbs and flowers with some honey and vanilla. A strong malty taste with hints of sweet wood smoke and sandalwood on the palate. A long, malt-driven finish with light smoke and hints of sweetness.
Dalwhinnie 15 Year16Dalwhinnie Distillery, Dalwhinnie, Scotland, 86 Proof
– Dalwhinnie 15yo is a good introduction to the delights of single malt whisky – elegant, smooth and medium-bodied, with a light, fruity palate and a whiff of heather on the finish. Part of Diageo’s Classic Malt range.
Glennfiddich 12 Year 12Glennfiddich Distillery, Speyside, Scotland, 80 Proof
– Carefully matured in the finest American oak and European oak sherry casks for at least 12 years, it is mellowed in oak marrying tunes to create its sweet and subtle oak flavors.
Glennfiddich 15 Year 15Glennfiddich Distillery, Speyside, Scotland, 80 Proof
– A marriage of American and European oak casks and Oloroso sherry casks. Warm honey and green fruits on the nose. The palate is intense but very leathery, oaky and earthy, turning into hints of cinnamon and spice. A medium, round body and long and pleasant end finishes this complex and unique Scotch.
Glenfiddich 18 Year 25Glenfiddich Distillery, Speyside, Scotland, 86 Proof
– This 18 year old from Glenfiddich’s core range was matured in a mix of Oloroso sherry and bourbon casks. Many malts finished in sherry casks are overwhelmed by the rich sherry flavors (sometimes intentionally to disguise a poor malt). But in this case the Oloroso adds to the already rich mix of orange, ginger, and toffee. A rich and delicate finish.
Glenfiddich IPA Cask 15Glenfiddich Distillery, Speyside, Scotland, 86 Proof
– An elegant harmony of fresh green apple, William’s pear and spring blossom. On the palate, vibrant with a zesty citrus note followed by creamy vanilla and a hint of fresh hops.
Glenlivet 15 Year 19The Glenlivet Distillery, Banffshire, Scotland, 80 Proof
– Beautifully structured with interplay of fruits and spices. The aroma is intense and sweet with hints of citrus fruit. A full palate contrast notes of ripe mango with cinnamon and white pepper. This leads into a long and creamy finish balanced by a teasing, spicy dryness conferred by selective maturation of new French oak casks.
Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve15The Glenlivet Distillery, Banffshire, Scotland, 80 Proof
– The Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve is a no-age-statement single malt Scotch whisky. The expression was released in 2014 and named in honor of The Glenlivet’s founder, George Smith. Aromas of citrus and fresh oranges. On the palate you get fruity, zesty with the sweetness of oranges, pear and toffee apples.
Glenmorangie 10 Year Single Malt Scotch 11Glenmorangie Distillery, Tain Ross-shire, Scotland, 86 Proof
– The original expression and the real backbone of the Glenmorangie range. A ten-year-old single malt, Glenmorangie is produced by marrying the delicate spirit that emerges from Scotland’s tallest stills, with first and second fill American white oak casks. The palate is light to medium, with citrus and some grassiness and hints of vanilla.
Gordon & MacPhail’s Linkwood 15 Year 18Gordon & MacPhail, Elgin, Scotland, 86 Proof
– Distilled at Linkwood of Moray and Banffshire and oaked under contract by Scotland’s famous Gordon & MacPhail bottlers. The nose reveals pronounced sherry aromas with hints of ripe summer berries. Smooth and well balanced, the palate displays mixed spice flavors and a toach of charred oak.
Lagavulin 11 Guinness Cask23Lagavulin Distillery, Islay, Scotland, 92 Proof
– Matured for just over 10 years in American white oak casks before being transferred to Guinness casks for four months. The whole experience of this dram is like drinking it through a creamy Guinness head, softening and creaming the aromas and flavours.
Lagavulin 16 Year30Lagavulin Distillery, Islay, Scotland, 86 Proof
– A much sought-after single malt Scotch whisky with the massive peat-smoke that’s typical of southern Islay – but also offering richness and a dryness that turns it into a truly interesting tipple.
Laphroaig 10 Year 14D Johnston & Company, Glasgow, Scotland, 86 Proof
– Laphroaig 10 Year Old is an all malt Scotch whisky from the remote island of Islay in the Western Isles of Scotland. In making this particular whisky, malted barley is dried over a peat fire. The smoke from this peat, found only on Islay, gives Laphroaig its particular flavor. Suggested to be served neat, or with a little cool water. A full bodied Scotch, with a huge smoky nose. Finish is long and lingering.
Macallan 12 Year 20Macallan Distillery, Speyside, Scotland, 80 Proof
– Vanilla with a hint of ginger, dried fruits, sherry sweetness and wood smoke on the nose. Deliciously smooth, rich dried fruits and sherry, balanced with wood smoke and spice on the palate. The finish is complex with sweet toffee and dried fruits, lingering wood smoke and spice.
Oban 14 Year 18Oban Distillers, Highlands, Scotland, 86 Proof
– Rich sweetness and fruits – oranges, lemons and pears, with sea salt and peaty smokiness on the nose. A full rich body with dried figs and honey-sweet spices, followed by a smoky malty dryness on the palate. A long, smooth-sweet finish with oak-wood, dryness and a grain of salt.
Signatory Glen Rothes 15 Year 199918Signatory Vintage Scotch Whiskey Co. Ltd, Pitlochry, Scotland, 92 Proof
– The distillery’s unique bottling process focuses on the vintage of the malt, not the age, to ensure quality distilling and careful planning.
Talisker 10 Year 19Talisker Distillery, Isle of Skye, Scotland, 91.6 Proof
– A complex single malt with a rich dried fruit sweetness, clouds of smoke, strong barley-malt flavors and a peppery eruption at the back of the throat. A huge, long, peppery finish with an appetizing sweetness on the finish.
Blended Scotch whisky constitutes about 90% of the whisky produced in Scotland. Blended Scotch, as its name implies, is the result of blending grain whisky with single malts, sometimes from dozens of different distilleries. Each brand of blended whisky has its own particular flavor profile, and while the grain whisky that goes into it is pretty consistent, the barrels from the individual distilleries all vary. So the tricky task falls on the Master Blender to produce a consistent product, year after year, from these endlessly varying components.
Blended Scotch
Buchanan’s ‘Deluxe’ 12 Year 10James Buchanan & Company, Glasgow, Scotland, 80 Proof
– Has a soft and fruity flavor, with orange and chocolate notes that allow it to be served on the rocks or with soda, garnished with a strip of orange peel
Chivas Regal 18 Year Blended Scotch 15Chivas Brothers at Strathisla Distillery, Speyside Scotland, 80 Proof
– Regarded as one of the world’s first luxury whiskies, the Chivas brand was born from two brothers who’s ambition for aging and blending secured them among the ranks of world class whisky producers. Blended from over twenty whiskies matured for at least 18 years. Lush chocolate and orange notes are dominate throughout. The nose has some citrus and spice notes, and Sherry notes on the finish.
Dewars White Label 8.50Aberfeldy Distillery, Aberfeldy, Perthshire, Scotland, 80 Proof
– A perfectly balanced blended Scotch with delicate notes of unripened pear and a hint of oak. A delightful blend of soft vanilla and honey on the palate.
Johnnie Walker Black Label 14John Walker & Sons, Diageo Co., Kilmarnock, Ayrshire, Scotland, 80 Proof
– The award winning Johnnie Walker Black Label remains rich and smooth today as it was when Johnnie Walker’s son and grandson were master blenders. It compromises 40 different malts and grains. Rich and full on the nose, sweet with honey, malt and oranges, plus a hint of peat. Sir Winston Churchill’s favorite whiskey.
Johnnie Walker Blue 50John Walker & Sons, Diego Co., Kilmarnock, Ayrshire, Scotland, 86 Proof
– Created to reflect the style of whiskies in the early 19th century, it’s blended using some of the rarest casks from the Johnnie Walker stocks, the largest in the world. The casks are hand-selected and set aside for their exceptional quality, character and flavor. The character of Blue Label is truly unique; it is complex, powerful, incredibly smooth and retains the Johnnie Walker signature smokiness.
Pig’s Nose 8Spencerfield Spirit Co., Scotland, 80 Proof
– The Pig’s Nose has a rich and malty nose, with sultanas and spices. Seductive and smooth. Big bold and spicy in the mouth, with Sherry and developing notes of wine. Sweeter when water is added. The finish is steadily drying with prunes, oak, dry Sherry and a hint of peat.
Pre-prohibition rye whiskey made up the majority of whiskey production in the United States. Rye whiskey is a product that is not distilled more than 160 proof from a fermented mash of grain containing at least 51% rye grain. A straight rye in the United States must be bottled at no less than 80 proof, and be aged in new charred oak barrels for no less than two years.
Rye Whiskey
Black Maple Oregon Rye 16Stein Distillery, Joseph, Oregon, 95 proof
– This rye has an abundance of earthy, spice, cinnamon and vanilla character. The palate brings in some grasy notes and a little cinnamon and clove.
Bulleit Rye 10.50Bulliet Distilling Co, Lawrenceburg, KY, 90 Proof
– With a mash bill of 95% rye and 5% malted barley, a mix well above the legal requirement of 51% rye for rye whiskey, Bulleit Rye has become the new go-to for Rye enthusiasts since its release. It is aged a minimum of four years in new white oak barrels that are charred to level 4 (the highest level). The palate is smoothly balanced and complex, with notes of white pepper and tarragon, as well as sweeter notes of maple syrup and dried fruit.
Elijah Craig Rye11Heaven Hill Distillery, Bardstown, KY, 94 Proof
– has nice aromas of black pepper and summer fruits form against an herbal bouquet. On the palate, it welcomes a surprisingly sweet kettle corn and caramel sweetness, while a mix of allspice, nutmeg, and rye grain follows.
High West Rendezvous Rye 16High West Distillery, Park City, UT, 92 Proof
– Marriage of two straight rye whiskies: a straight 6-year-old with a mash bill containing 95% rye and 5% barley malt; a straight 16-year-old with a mash bill containing 80% rye, 10% corn, 10% barley malt. High West does not chill filter its whiskies because they prefer to retain the natural oils that contribute flavor, texture, and a lingering finish that is really enjoyable in a sipping whiskey.
Old Overholt 7James B. Beam Distilling Co, Clermont, KY, 80 Proof
– Originally produced in western Pennsylvania, now distilled by Jim Beam out of Claremont, Kentucky. This whiskey hits the palate with a shot of honey and vanilla in the middle, fading into spice. Served nice and cheap.
Rabbit Hole Boxergrail Straight Rye 14Rabbit Hole Distiller, Louisville, KY, 95 proof
– This rye is named after the rich history that Louisville has when it comes to it’s boxing heritage. The aromas of a lavish bouquet of spices and butterscotch are very noticeable. It transforms into citrus and black tea on the tongue as you enjoy the depth and complex of this rye.
Rabbit Hole Heigold High Rye 16Rabbit Hole Distiller, Louisville, KY, 95 proof
– Warm baking spices and toasted malt will lure you in and take you on a nice ride with this high rye. 70% corn, 25% German malted rye, 5% malted barley makes for southern sweetness layered with light notes of white pepper.
Rittenhouse Rye 8.50Heaven Hill Distilleries, Bardstown, KY, 100 Proof
– Rittenhouse rye is rich and intense. Vibrant with lush notes of dark chocolate, rye, clove, sticky caramel, and well integrated oak. It has been stored continuously for at least four years in American oak barrels. The current revival of classic cocktail mixology has resulted in high demand for Rittenhouse Rye Whisky.
Sazerac 6 Year 12Buffalo Trace Distillery, Frankfort, KY, 90 Proof
– 6 year old straight rye whiskey. Sazerac Rye Whiskey symbolizes the tradition and history of New Orleans dating back to the 1800’s. Sazerac Rye Whiskey was used to make the original, first and only branded American Cocktail—The Sazerac.
WhistlePig 10 Year 23WhistlePig Farm Distillery, Shoreham, VT, 100 Proof
– A 100 proof, 100 percent rye whiskey, aged for at least ten years in new American oak barrels. It was released in the summer of 2010 to great critical acclaim, receiving numerous distinctions such as the “highest ever” designation from Wine Enthusiast Magazine and “highest recommendation” from the Spirits Journal.
WhistlePig 12 Year Old World 34WhistlePig Farm Distillery, Shoreham, VT, 86 Proof
– The Old World blendwas released on June 26, 2015. It all comes together in a smooth, progressive finish that lingers long and warm. Grapefruit (Madeira), chocolate nibs (Port).
WhistlePig 15 Year Straight Rye50WhistlePig Farm Distillery, Shoreham, VT, 92 Proof
– Released in 2016, this is the 15 year old straight rye whiskey, their oldest release so far. On the palate you are gonna get toffee and butterscotch, a little bit of dark chocolate too. Soft spices grow and grow with a touch of intense oak warmth.
By Irish law, all whiskey must be aged a minimum of three years in barrels. Single malt Irish whiskey is made from 100% malted barley by a single distillery in a pot still. Grain whiskey is particularly light in style. Made from corn or wheat, grain whiskey is produced in column stills. Blended whiskey constitutes 90% of all Irish whiskey production. Pure pot still whiskey is a blend of both malted and unmalted barley distilled in a pot still. It is a style unique to Ireland.
Irish Whiskey
Glendalough Double Barrel 8Glendalough Distillery, Glendalough, Ireland, 92 Proof
– Ireland’s first craft distillery, built in the ‘City of 7 Churches.’ This beautifully aged whiskey gains maritime character from aging on the east coast of Ireland, with a full, rounded character from select first-fill bourbon casks. The nose is sweet with hints of citrus and meadow flowers. The palate balances orange zest, vanilla and chocolate, and spicier cinnamon and pepper notes. Finish of lingering sweetness.
Glendalough 7 Year 13Glendalough Distillery, Glendalough, Ireland, 92 Proof
– It first spends seven years in American Oak barrels before being finished in barrels that once held Black Pitts Porter from the 5 Lamps Brewery in Dublin. The result is a creamy, malty spirit that shares characteristics of both whiskey and beer.
Glendalough 13 Year 26Glendalough Distillery, Glendalough, Ireland, 92 Proof
– This expression is named after Ireland’s luckiest number, 13. This single malt is double distilled and aged for 13 years in first fill Bourbon barrels. This Glendalough single malt has unmistakable hints of spice, creamy vanilla, biscuity malts. A true embodiment of the outstanding spirit of Ireland.
Grand Ten South Boston Irish Whiskey7.75GrandTen Distilling, Boston, MA, 80 Proof
– South Boston Irish Whiskey has a pleasant nose of banana and hazelnut, which transitions smoothly into a malt sweetness with notes of honey, citrus peel, and cinnamon, finishing low and slow with smooth oak.
Jameson 9Old Midleton Distillery, Co Cork, Ireland, 80 Proof
– This recipe is all about balance. The balance between just the right amount of malted and un-malted barley to give a natural barley flavor. Balancing the exact proportions of triple distilled Pot Still Whiskeys and then triple distilled Grain Whiskeys to deliver exceptional smoothness. And balancing the sweet, nutty flavor from Sherry casks with the toasted wood and vanilla notes from Bourbon casks.
Kilbeggan7.50Old Kilbeggan Distillery, Co Westmeath, Ireland, 80 Proof
– From the world’s oldest licensed whiskey distillery in the world comes Killbeggan. On the palate it has a soft, silky smooth texture, a delicious sweetness with, toffee, fruit and peppery spice flavours all of which are followed by a creamy vanilla and toasty wood finish.
Redbreast 12 Year 14Old Midleton Distillery, Co Cork, Ireland, 80 Proof
– Redbreast is the largest selling Single Pot Still Irish whiskey in the world and is regarded as the definitive expression of traditional Pot Still whiskey. Full of aroma and flavour, it benefits from a strong contribution from distillates which have matured in Oloroso sherry casks, giving it its trademark Christmas cake character.
Tullamore Dew 8Tullamore Distilley, Tullamore Town, Ireland, 80 Proof
– Triple distilled, blended Irish whiskey from barley in pot stills and aged in charred oak. Tullamore Dew is a smooth and malty Irish whiskey that has been distilled in the small town of Tullamore in County Offaly since 1829.
West Cork Bourbon Cask 10West Cork Distillery, West Cork, Ireland, 80 Proof
– A delicate blend of grain (75%) and malt (25%) whiskey matured in bourbon casks, with a slight citrus and cracked pepper aroma. A smooth and balanced whiskey, the taste is one of malt, lingering sweetness, citrus, apple and nutmeg.
West Cork 10 Year 12West Cork Distillery, West Cork, Ireland, 80 Proof
– A 10-year-old single malt whiskey from Ireland’s West Cork. Matured in first-fill bourbon barrels, this has notes of chocolate, vanilla and warming subtle spice.
West Cork 12 Year Port Cask 15West Cork Distillery, West Cork, Ireland, 86 Proof
– Second in the series of 12-year-old finished Irish Whiskey is the West Cork 12 Year Old Port Cask. Aged for 12 years in first-fill ex-Bourbon casks and then finished for 6 month in Douro Superior Port casks this whiskey brings a nice combination of sweet characteristics that blend together quite well. Malt, sweet and dark chocolate on the nose with a nice lingering sweetness and dried grapes on the palate.
West Cork 12 Year Sherry Cask 15West Cork Distillery, West Cork, Ireland, 86 Proof
– A limited release of 12 year old Single Malt Irish whiskey aged in first fill Bourbon casks for 12 years and finished for circa 110 days in rum, sherry (Pedro Ximinez) or port (Douro Superior) casks. Almonds and dried fruits on the nose with dried fruits, berries and floral on the palate.
The beginnings of Japanese Whisky were largely a response to the popularity and quality of Scotch. First produced in the beginning of the 20th century, the style soon became wildly popular domestically, benefitting from superb Japanese water sources. It wasn’t until the turn of the 21st century that Japanese Whisky found broad appeal on the international scene, and now many examples are regarded as some of the finest whiskies in the world.
Japanese Whisky
Hakushu 12 Year Single Malt 40Suntory Distillers, Osaka, Japan, 86 Proof
– Hakushu is Suntory’s second distillery, located in the deep forest of the Japanese Southern Alps. Fresh and gently smoky with green flavors of basil, pine needle, and sweet pear. The finish features a warmth of subtle smoke and soft herbal notes of green tea.
Suntory Toki 10Suntory Distillers, Osaka, Japan, 86 Proof
– Toki means ‘time’ in Japanese, calling on traditions of reinvention and energy. This blend draws from single malts from three acclaimed Suntory distilleries. Silky and clean with a subtle finish, this expression showcases notes of green apple, basil, honey, grapefruit, and ginger.
Yamazaki 12 Year Single Malt 55Suntory Yamazaki Distillery, Kyoto, Japan, 86 Proof
– Yamazaki 12 year is handcrafted at Japan’s oldest distillery, built by Suntory founder Shinjiro Torii in 1923. Distilled through the art of Japanese craftsmanship in perfect harmony with nature, it is then aged in casks of three different kinds of oaks: American, Spanish and Japanese. This is a medium-bodied single malt whisky with aromas of dried fruits and honey, and a delicate taste with a lingering, woody finish.
The primary difference between Tennessee whiskey and bourbon is that the "white dog" or new make spirit is dripped through sugar maple charcoal to mellow the whiskey before being put in the barrel, while bourbon goes directly from the still into the barrel. This dripping through charcoal is known as the "Lincoln County Process".
Tennessee Whiskey
Jack Daniel’s9Jack Daniel Distillery, Lynchburg, TN, 80 Proof
– What gives Jack Daniel’s its distinctive character is the way in which they charcoal mellow their whiskey drop by drop (through 10 feet of charcoal), then let it age in their own handcrafted barrels. And they don’t follow a calendar. Jack Daniels Tennessee Sippin’ Whiskey is ready only when their tasters say it is.
Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel12Jack Daniel Distillery, Lynchburg, TN
– This whiskey starts with nice aromas of banana bread, caramel and heavy toasted oaks. The flavor takes you from a nice sweet simple flavors of caramel, banana chips and toasted oak.
Most Canadian whiskies are blended multi-grain spirits containing a large percentage of corn spirits, and are typically lighter and smoother than other whisky styles. Because rye was once a standard ingredient in Canadian whisky, the terms "rye whisky" and "Canadian whisky" are often used interchangeably in Canada.
Canadian Whisky
Crown Royal 10Diageo Distillery, Gimli, Canada, 80 Proof
– It’s important to understand that the resulting smoothness and complexity of a typical Crown Royal whisky involves the distillation of various grains (including corn, rye, wheat and barley), the distillates of which are subsequently aged in an astounding variety of casks. The wood barrels utilized may include ex-Bourbon, ex-Canadian whisky, relatively ‘fresh’ oak and ex-wine casks.
Seagrams V.O 7Diageo Distillery, Valleyfield, Quebec, 80 Proof
– Once prohibition ended, the Seagram’s company had large reserved of whisky ready for the American market. This is one of the biggest reasons Canadian whisky was, and is, so popular in the US. The initials “VO” meaning is not well documented but could mean either “very old” or “very own”. Very smooth and light in flavour, except for some subtle grains, slight sweetness and a bit of oak.
Small batch whiskey is a term usually referring to bourbon or rye whiskey, and denotes a whiskey produced by mixing the contents of a relatively small number of selected barrels. The philosophy here is that single barrels are much too quirky, too idiosyncratic to bottle individually. If you're going to put your name on the bottle, you want the person who buys it to be able to trust that what's in that bottle is what they expect, that it's like the last bottle that they liked so much. From a distiller’s point of view, it makes far more sense to select your choicest barrels, but instead of bottling them one at a time, they are dumped together to make what they term small batch whiskey.
Small Batch & Specialty Grain
Berkshire Corn 9.50Berkshire Mountain Distillers, Great Barrington, MA, 86 Proof
– Berkshire Mountain Distillers‘ Corn Whiskey is handcrafted in small batches using local corn sourced from a farmer two miles from the distillery. It is aged over oak and cherry wood that is cut, milled and charred by hand on the farm.
Bernheim Wheat 12Heaven Hill Distilleries, Bardstown, KY, 90 Proof
– Bernheim Original Kentucky Straight Wheat Whiskey represents the first truly new American whiskey style to be introduced in many generations. Whereas other whiskeys contain primary corn, barley, or rye in their recipes, Bernheim is the only type of straight whiskey which uses soft winter wheat. The result is a full-bodied, sweet, yet smooth whiskey that is produced in small batches and aged to perfection in traditional open rick warehouses.
Orphan Barrel: The Gifted Horse20Orphan Barrel Whiskey Distilling Co., Tullahoma, TN. 115 proof
– Orphan Barrel The Gifted Horse Whiskey is a result of the mistaken mixing of a 17 year old Kentucky Straight Bourbon with a 4 year old whiskey at the Stitzel-Weller Distillery. All the balance and integration on the nose are there in the opening with baked apple, marzipan, maple, cinnamon, clove, black pepper, and oak, all wrapped by a nice soft layer of caramel corn.
Slaughterhouse American Whiskey10Splinter Group Napa, CA, 88 proof
– After spending 9 years in American oak, the spirit was further matured in French oak barrels that previously held Napa Valley Bordeaux varietal red wine which added perfumed aromatics and rounded out the mouthfeel.
White dog, moonshine, corn whiskey, raw whiskey, white whiskey–whichever name you call it, unaged, just-off-the-still whiskey is a style gaining in popularity over the last few years. Since it is not aged in barrels, white whiskey lets the flavor of the grain, (corn, wheat, and rye are most common) shine through. And interestingly, while the oak maturation is the main factor in creating the colors and flavors of aged whiskies, newly distilled whisky have flavors which are distinctive to the ingredients with which and process by which they were distilled.
White Whiskey
Glendalough Mountain Strength Poitín 9Glendalough Distillery, Glendalough, Ireland, 120 Proof
– Before there was whiskey, there was poitín. Earliest records from 584AD show that Irish monastic settlements, like Glendalough, were the birthplace of distilling in Ireland. Traditionally made from malted barley, sugar beet and potatoes. There are hints of black, cracked pepper, some dried fruits and dried apricots with touches of vanilla and toasty oak throughout.