Aromatic, with very pronounced lime scent and subtle background hints of juniper. Shows classic Tanqueray smoothness and finesse in the mouth with refreshing lime character that stays on the palate. Needless to say, adding any lime zest would be overkill.
Exclusively produced by the Chartreuse Order of the Carthusian monks, founded in 1084, one of France’s most famous herbal liqueurs remains a mystery in many ways. Originally produced as a medicine, chartreuse contains over 130 plants, roots and herbs — the exact formula of which is known only to 2 Carthusian monks. Barrel aged for 8 years, Chartreuse VEP is a more sumptuous version of standard green chartreuse, with a deep bouquet of mint, flowers, woody spices, liquorice and citrus and a complex herbal sweetness distinctive to chartreuse.
Lithe and luscious, this Antiguan rum starts its days fermenting courtesy of a variety of yeasts, some of which are wild. It's then distilled continuously in copper before aging in former bourbon barrels. The resulting rum is all caramel, oranges and faint but persistent smoke.
One of my favourite bottlings from Havana Club, Selección de Maestros is a collaborative effort from the Maestros Roneros Guild of Cuba, spearheaded by Havana Club’s premier rum master, Don José Navarro. Loaded on the nose with coffee, orange peel, caramelized peaches, vanilla and cedar, this hyper-fruity yet decidedly dry rum is a joy to sip. It’s so smooth that only the depth of flavour hints at its barrel strength (45%).
A premium vodka worth the coin, Absolut Elyx is distilled in a copper column from single-estate Swedish winter wheat and naturally filtered water. A remarkably creamy and sophisticated spirit with notes of vanilla, spice and, of course, wheat grain. Great in a martini.
The 4th release of Bruichladdich's richest and potentially most profound spirit is aged in a secret selection of casks, some of which have to be wine. Vanilla, currants, sultanas and honey mingle with citrus and baking spice on the nose. On the palate, it's pure wine and chocolate with notes of Madeira, honey and toast. As master distiller Jim McEwan notes, a total indulgence.
A blended malt whisky comprised of Glenfiddich, Balvenie and Kininvie, Monkey Shoulder is made with the mixologist in mind, but its smooth intricacies — peaches, honey, chocolate, vanilla and Christmas spices — could sway the most seasoned scotch drinker.