The holidays are a time for celebration, connection, and indulgence. All of which is especially true for the whisky lovers in your life.Truth be told, there's no better way to show you care than gifting a bottle of the good stuff over the festive season.
Having tried everything from rare, record-breaking releases to festive seasonal gems, this year's line-up of my favorite single malts are guaranteed to elevate your giftee's collection—and perhaps your status as the ultimate gift-giver.
With no further ado, here's your guide to 2024's most coveted bottles and why they belong under the tree.
Paul John Christmas Malt 2024
Straight from the sun-soaked shores of Goa, Paul John's annual Christmas release never fails to impress. The 2024 edition is a particularly strong choice for those who prefer their single malts on the sweeter side, too, with notes of plum pudding, roasted nuts, and spiced orange. A vatting of two expressions (ex-bourbon finished in Caribbean Rum casks and ex-bourbon finished in virgin oak) this single malt is as warm and inviting as a holiday hearth. A true seasonal indulgence.
Kanosuke Single Malt
Hailing from Kagoshima, Kanosuke is my absolute favorite Japanese whisky discovery of the year. This single malt, made with a small portion of peated malt and matured in ex-shochu, ex-sherry, and American white oak casks, offers a rich, layered profile with notes of black tea, orange peel and honey sparkling throughout. There's even a hint of candied ginger, which amps things up beautifully.
Johnson Reserve Ascension
Breaking records and redefining luxury, Johnson Reserve's "Ascension" is the talk of the whisky world. Last month, this ultra-rare release, crafted from 33 unique casks, showcases an unparalleled complexity that has earned it the award of The Greatest Variety of Flavours in a Whisky by Guinness World Records.. Expect an opulent symphony of sweet and saline flavors, rancio-prominent, balanced by a smooth, lingering finish. There are, however, just 40 bottles of Ascension available for purchase worldwide, and its price is only available on application, so you might want to save a bottle for the man or woman who already has everything.
Glenfiddich Grand Cru 23-Year-Old
Elevating any celebration you could hope to pop a bottle for, Glenfiddich's truly gorgeous Grand Cru 23-Year-Old offers a luxurious twist on tradition. Finished in French cuvée casks, this single malt marries the finesse of Scotch with the elegance of sparkling wine; expect delicate notes of apple blossom, creamy vanilla, peach, and brioche, culminating in a finish that lingers like a fine champagne.
Ardbeg Corryvreckan
For those with a penchant for bold, peated whiskies, Ardbeg Corryvreckan is a stormy delight. Named after Scotland's infamous whirlpool, it delivers a tidal wave of unexpected flavors, including black pepper, espresso, and smoked bacon, underpinned by a dark, chewy sweetness. Its intensity and complexity make it a memorable gift for the dram adventurer in your life.
Bruichladdich Black Art 11.1
A whisky shrouded in mystery (thanks, in large part, to its price tag), Bruichladdich's Black Art series has become a cult favorite. The 11.1 release, in particular: a labyrinth of flavors crafted by Head Distiller Adam Hannett, who also happens to be the only person in the world to know the exact cask details. Expect a harmonious blend of orchard fruits, honey-forward spice, and touch of toasted oak. A gift for those who love to ponder the alchemy of whisky-making.
Loch Lomond 12-Year-Old
An approachable yet sophisticated Scotch, Loch Lomond 12-Year-Old is a versatile addition to any whisky collection. Crafted using the distillery's signature straight-neck and swan-neck pot stills, this American Oak-heavy expression is aged in a mix of bourbon, refill, and recharred casks. The result is a balanced profile with notes of green apple, pear, lemon meringue and smoky oak (just as you'd hope). The warming, albeit not-too-long, finish makes it a perfect dram for fireside quaffing.
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