Fast forward to the present, we now have the Diageo Special Releases: Spirited Xchange Second Edition. This is made up of eight single malt whiskies, which are limited in number (although the exact numbers have not been revealed). Designed to push the boundaries of Scotch whisky, this selection features familiar distilleries alongside lesser known hidden gems.
And since the following rare and collectible single malts have been crafted by Dr. Stuart Morrison, the much-celebrated Master Blender at Diageo, each will definitely have its own story to tell.
The Singleton ‘Autumn Walk’
14 years old | Matured in ex-bourbon, rejuvenated ex-red wine and refill casks, then finished with European oak casks with Pyrenean oak cask-ends | Speyside | 54.7% ABV
With a coppery amber tint and rich and sweet on the nose, The Singleton ‘Autumn Walk’ offers a distinctly woody undertone. Aromas of vanilla, sponge cake, and sweet orange rise first, followed by aromas of dried fruits (especially raisin and sultana with a hint of apricot) and toasted nuts – think Christmas fruitcake. On the palate, this whisky is rich and luscious with plenty of fruity and nutty notes up front.
Talisker ‘Tidal Churn’
8 years old | Matured in stone-spun re-toasted oak casks | Isle of Skye | 58.7% ABV
The colour of the Talisker ‘Tidal Churn’ is mid-gold and on the nose, it is sweet and smoky. Meanwhile, the aromas of honey, sugar syrup, and white chocolate are joined by a distinctive peppery smoke that has elements of dried seaweed, ash, and black pepper to it. On the palate, this whisky is immediately peppery, but with sweet undertones. Peat smoke dominates throughout and plenty of sweetness comes in the form of strong honey and white chocolate hints.
Benrinnes ‘Grand Crescendo’
21 years old | Matured in American oak ex-red wine, European oak and rejuvenated casks | Speyside | 55.4% ABV
Boasting a fine russet amber hue with an elegant and expressive nose, Benrinnes ‘Grand Crescendo’ features the aromas of toffee apple, baked pear, butterscotch, and juicy ripe peach leap from the glass and are supported by further aromas of toasted walnut, dark chocolate, and a hint of sandalwood. On the palate, this whisky is classy, luxurious, and displays an immediate sweet versus savoury dynamic.
Caol Ila ‘Ambrosial Feast’
11 years old | Unpeated and matured in re-fill American oak and rejuvenated ex-red wine casks | Islay | 57.3% ABV
The Caol Ila ‘Ambrosial Feast’ has a bright gold colour and with a nose that is refreshing and uplifting with some sweet aromas. Crisp green apple, milk chocolate and syrup give a bright start, before further aromas of cereals, buttery fudge and black pepper develop. There are also hints of buttery popcorn and dried fruit, especially raisin and sultana. The malty and mineral elements return towards the end to give balance and good depth – so this whisky is certainly mouthwatering.
Lagavulin ‘Fireside Tales’
12 years old | Matured in first-fill ex-bourbon barrels and re-fill casks | Islay | 57.4% ABV
There is plenty of bonfire and charcoal ash on the flavour profile for Lagavulin’s ‘Fireside Tales’, which sit alongside some honeyed sweetness. A hint of old fashioned coal tar soap is also evident. On the palate, this whisky is vibrant and fiery with plenty of ash-like smoke to the fore. The smokiness is never far away and lingers throughout every sip. It just drives the whisky on towards a long, ashy and drying finish.
Mortlach ‘Midnight Dusk’
Finished in ex-Ramandolo sweet white wine and ex-Sangiovese red wine casks | Speyside | 57.5% ABV
The colour for the Mortlach ‘Midnight Dusk’ is deep copper, and the nose is very confected – think of aromas of candied lemon and lime, white chocolate, sugary sultana and ripe peach. Underneath are hints of something floral, old leather and peppery spices. On the palate, this is much more viscous and mouthcoating than the nose suggested. It feels big and bold, yet remains pleasantly sweet.
Oban ‘Coastal Orchard’
10 years old | Matured in new freshly charred American oak barrels and finished in ex-Oloroso seasoned and re-fill casks | Highlands | 58% ABV
Oban’s release has a bright gold colour and is laced with heady aromas of fresh vanilla pod, white chocolate, and lemon curd with hints of cocoa powder and sultana. There is also the faintest whiff of sea breeze and gentle, soft peat smoke. On the palate, this whisky is equally fresh and lively. The gentle peat smoke is more prominent now that one’s tasting it but sits underneath the other sweeter notes and compliments them well.
Roseisle ‘Origami Kite II’
12 years old | Only the second ever expression released, matured in re-fill and first-fill ex-bourbon casks | Speyside | 55.6% ABV
This deep gold Roseisle ‘Origami Kite II’ has a nose that is bright and vibrant, with aromas of golden syrup and vanilla toffee leading the way. This sits alongside some baked apple, white chocolate, and orange blossom. Hints of pepper and marzipan sit underneath. On the palate, this whisky has delicious initial notes of dried peach, with a hint of cinnamon and powdered ginger to round things off nicely.
The ‘Spirited Xchange Second Edition’ finds new dimension through the artistry of award-winning Ben Thouard and internationally renowned Till Janz. Through their lenses, each whisky’s character is distilled into striking visual narratives that heighten the collection’s concept. Every image is carefully composed to emphasise the nuances of each expression, revealing the innovative spirit and distinctive charm that define the series.
The 2024 Special Releases collection will be available in limited quantities from The Chamber at RRSP of RM6,999.00.
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