whisky

Blended and grain whiskies have historically been regarded as inferior to single malt whisky. Unfortunately, this category is often subject to gross generalisation, as many people form negative opinions based solely on experiences with brands such as Bells or Teachers, without exploring other options. However, if they had sampled premium blends like Chivas Regal, Johnnie Walker, or Royal Salute, their perception might be different.

The drive to Bruichladdich on the isle of Islay is nothing short of beautiful. Twisty roads, stunning coastal views, and if you are lucky, fine weather. But I don’t recommend you drive, opt for a taxi instead from the town of Bowmore and enjoy what this exciting distillery has to offer - incredible whisky. 

I was going to start this feature by saying “Once in a while” but it needs to start with “Once in a generation”

Gwalarn French Whisky

A Celtic Blend.

After creating two prestigious single malts (Kornog and Glann Ar Mor), Celtic Whisky Distillerie has developed its first blend, born from the blending of whiskies of Celtic origin. Like its single malt predecessors, this blend bears a Breton name that evokes its character, Gwalarn or “North-West Wind”. The French distillery in Côtes-d’Armor intends to bring a breath of fresh air to the world of blended whiskies.

Is John Lawrie, MD of the Glenturret Distillery and the Michelin Starred Lalique Restaurant, the future of the Scottish whisky industry? His approach to business certainly reflects the sort of elements which will take the whole sector forward: a respect for tradition, a refreshingly international outlook and an innovative marketing spirit, full of entrepreneurship and imagination. 

Certain distilleries have become ubiquitous on the shelves of not only specialist whisky retailers but supermarkets. The Balvenie is one of them and with justification. For decades it has been a leading light in Speyside. Located next door to Glenfiddich, yet almost hidden away it is producing some of the most exciting whisky in Scotland, so much so that their Second Red Rose 21 year old was was favourite "normal" expression tasted last year. 

Twice. The number of times I thought I had been to Dublin previously, but I was wrong. I have a habit of that. Having been a wine merchant and writer for many years, I am convinced the cranial sub-section of my brain containing memory has diminished over time. Does anyone else feel the same? I was telling a friend about my trip, and how it was only my second trip to Ireland when they reminded me of a wedding I had photographed there.

We are all fine law-abiding citizens. Are we not? Of course we are. But let’s not kid ourselves  -  one of the attractions of the whisky business is that it has its roots in activities which once were just shy of the squeaky clean. Quite a bit shy to be honest. Robert Burns, who fantasised about the devil making off with the customs man, knew all about this, being employed as an exciseman himself.

Rampur Whisky is a very different single malt from Radico Khaitan, India’s third largest distillery established in 1943.

Rampur is distilled in traditional copper pot stills in the oldest distillery in India, dating from 1943 with 73 years of distillation expertise. The Himalayas provide polar opposite of climate conditions throughout the year with the flavour of the famous Indian summer giving Rampur an added dimension and depth.

The Cotswolds Single Malt Whisky bottle comes in an attractively designed gold embossed filigree box, but the real surprise is in the bottle. 

The aroma as I prised off the lid was good, extremely good. But it was the first sip that impressed me the most. Finally, a truly excellent unpeated whisky from England produced by a fine international team. The Cotswolds Single Malt Whisky is the perfect goto whisky, smooth, finely balanced with a fusion of flavours, and just the right hint of spice.