In Good Spirits
Last month, we focused on Canadian whisky - specifically Alberta whiskies, and found that we still had a number of great, very tasty bottles that we wanted to talk about – but this time we wanted to talk about lovely bottles from further afield than our own provincial borders. Most this month are from Scotland, though not to worry, we have a rather exotic Indian whisky, a much-loved Irish whiskey, and a bourbon-style whisky from Canada.
Sharp-eyed readers may note that this month we’ve changed up this page a little and are calling it “In Good Spirits” moving forward. We still want to talk about excellent bottles, ones that we recommend and want to share with enthusiasts.
Bearface Bear-Bon Whisky, Canada
Still got a hankering for Southern-style whisky? Maybe willing to scratch the itch with a Canadian bottle? The newest release from Bearface is their Bear-Bon, made with corn, rye and barley in the mash bill, and aged in oak barrels previously used for Okanagan wine, and then seasoned with whisky, charred, and here they are. Bottled at 45.2 percent, this is bright, spicy, and smooth, showing the strengths of each grain. Neat was the way to go here, though lots of versatility for cocktails if so desired.
CSPC TBA About $58-63
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Glenmorangie “A Tale of Spices” Highland Single Malt Whisky, Scotland
The newest release from Glenmorangie’s “Tales” series, this one is a blend of four cask programs, PX sherry casks, charred oak casks, red wine casks, and in a bit of a twist, Moroccan red wine casks from French oak. The nose is truly alive with an exotic spectrum of spice from the Silk Road of old, and perhaps the palate is even more vibrant with plenty of ginger spice, toasted almonds, and much, much more. Perfectly enjoyable neat, but even better with a bare addition of filtered water.
CSPC 130886 $120-125
Bushmills “The Original” Irish Whiskey, Northern Ireland
Irish whiskey deserves much more love than it gets, and when the days are getting warm but those evenings still a little cool, it hits the spot like no other. Aged in both sherry casks and bourbon, both flavours and aromas are lighter, and show a little citrus peel, toasted almond, and rather delicate vanilla characters. Very smooth with a little spicy kick at the finish and bottled at 40 percent, it’s delicious in simple cocktails, or over a smallish ice cube.
CSPC 14910 $35-40
Rampur Barrel Blush Indian Single Malt Whisky, India
What’s better than a bouquet of roses on Mother’s Day? A beautifully presented, premium, single malt whisky with aromas of rose petals that take you straight to the flower garden. And butterscotch – so you’re already in love before you’ve tasted it. Rampur have matured their single malt in American bourbon barrels and then cleverly finished it in Australian shiraz casks, adding an extra layer of complexity with notes of blackcurrant, vanilla, and spice. A gorgeous gift (or a treat for yourself!).
CSPC 125562 Around $100
Port Askaig Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky 8 Year Old, Scotland
Now in its new-look bottle and box to match its older siblings, Port Askaig’s youngest offering would make a great introduction to Islay for those less familiar - and for Islay fans, you’ll be very happy with the balance of sweet to peat. Of course it’s smoky, and we’re glad for it, but in an elegantly delicate way. I particularly love the lingering salted caramel flavour left after the long finish, which makes you want to keep sipping and sipping, and licking your lips!
CSPC 790467 $77-80
Glenfarclas 12 Year Old Single Highland, Scotland
Ahh Speyside, instantly recognisable with your light and fruity profile and penchant for sherry casks. Glenfarclas 12 Year Old Single Highland more than adequately fits the description, and adds to it the primary aroma of honey as you lift the glass and breathe in…
Just a few drops of water bring out the cinnamon and baking spices, with more peppery spices on the long finish. Easily a good contender for your daily dram!
CSPC 349670 $83-90