Fall is here and that means Diageo’s Special Release Collection has been let out into the world! Exciting Times! Sticking with the theme that debuted last year, “Rare by Nature”, this year’s collection is eight cask strength whiskies. All carefully chosen by master blender Craig Wilson to give the whisky drinkers around the world a unique look into what Diageo brands have to offer. The releases range from 8 – 30 years and offer a different look at your favourite distilleries!
The bottlings will be online soon and we will be sure to let you know when they go live! Until then, here is a short rundown of the Special Releases!
ABV: 55.1%
DISTILLATION YEAR: 2002
CASKS: First ever release from 100% refill American oak hogsheads
REGION: Speyside
PLACE OF ORIGIN: Dufftown
An unusual and very fine example of The Singleton
Dufftown, exceptionally good at this age.
ABV: 57.9%
DISTILLATION YEAR: 2011
CASKS: From refill casks, then finished in pot – still Caribbean Rum casks
REGION: Isle of Skye
PLACE OF ORIGIN: Carbost
A vigorous example of Talisker with bags of distillery character that is best enjoyed at reduced strength.
ABV: 56.9%
DISTILLATION YEAR: 1999
CASKS: Finished in fresh – toasted Pedro Ximenez & Oloroso – seasoned casks
REGION: Speyside
PLACE OF ORIGIN: Dufftown
A classic example of ‘The Beast of Dufftown’, extraordinarily ‘well – mannered’ for its strength.
ABV: 56.4%
DISTILLATION YEAR: 2007
CASKS: From refill hogsheads and butts selected for quality alone
REGION: Islay
PLACE OF ORIGIN: Port Ellen
An elusive aroma for Lagavulin, with a big taste, especially at natural strength.
ABV: 56.0%
DISTILLATION YEAR: 2008
C A S K S: Refill casks and new and ex – bourbon American oak hogsheads
REGION: Speyside
PLACE OF ORIGIN: Knockando
Crisp and fresh, elegant and perfectly poised, this Cardhu would be a perfect accompaniment to an al fresco lunch – especially if chilled.
ABV: 55.8%
DISTILLATION YEAR: 1999
CASKS: From refill and new fresh – charred American Oak hogsheads
REGION: Speyside
PLACE OF ORIGIN: Ballindalloch
A lively example of Cragganmore at natural strength, with considerable complexity, which benefits from a little water.
ABV: 51.9%
DISTILLATION YEAR: 1989
CASKS: From refill American Oak hogsheads.
REGION: Highland
PLACE OF ORIGIN: Dalwhinnie
A very pleasing expression of a famously accessible whisky; easy drinking at any time of the day.
ABV: 50.8%
DISTILLATION YEAR: 1989
CASKS: Matured in refill and finished in first – fill ex – bourbon casks
REGION: Speyside
PLACE OF ORIGIN: Dufftown (closed distillery)
An outstanding example of Pittyvaich, proving that the make deserves to be better known, richly rewarding on both nose and palate and very easy to drink straight.
Slainte
Anthony
