As part of Black Bottle’s Alchemy series, the Andean Oak blended scotch is the first to be made with virgin rare Andean Oak at the centre of their recipe. Known for thriving in high altitudes where many trees would not survive, this oak imparts tannins and spice onto the whisky flavour profile. Bottled at 46.3%, its an experiment to try with great value.

Founded 1879 in Aberdeen by the Graham brothers, Black Bottle attribute their expertise to ingenious alchemy: Gordon Graham’s historic recipe, a strong use of peated malts, an alligator skin char and a marrying of the blend in virgin oak casks.

On the nose, we find that initial smoke and peat that Black Bottle is famed for, with an undercurrent of figs, fudge and carrot cake. The palate brings in a creamy vanilla, with earthy honey, rich caramel and mixed spice. A smoky sweet aftertaste follows.

A double-whammy. This Black Bottle Double Cask is a fascinating dram from a big name. A small batch expression released as part of the Alchemy Series, this double cask blended whisky uses two spirits; malt aged in Spanish sherry barrels, and 12-year-old grain matured in red wine casks. The resulting expression arrives at 46.3% abv and is bursting with fruity and winey flavours.

The nose gives hints of dried fruits, walnuts, sun-dried raisins, and orange. The palate gives a full, rich mouth-feel, with oaky notes followed by a burst of red berries. Grapes, red wine, and burnt toffee surge through the dry finish.

Black Bull is a no-fuss, fiercely independent whisky producer, and this signature 21 Year Old Black Bull testifies to its core commitments. Blended to the same formula as it did when it was released in 1864, this uses a variety of spectacular casks. It uses a large percentage of Speyside and Highland malts matured in sherry and bourbon casks. This blended whisky pays particular attention to a high malt to grain ratio and is bottled at 50% abv. Free from chill filtration, this has a depth of interesting drams just waiting to be discovered.

Aromas of lemon, orange, caramel, and orchard fruits waft up on the nose. Zesty spice awaits on the palate, with sweet vanilla, and barley sugars. The finish also harbours some peppery spice, with nutty, creamy hints in a well-balanced exit.

Kyloe (pronounced Kahy-loh) is inspired by the hardy breed of highland cattle, known to brace the powerful elements of the Scottish Highlands and Islands. Blended at a high ratio of malt to grain, Kyloe is bottled at 50% abv and free from chill filtration. The nose has aromas of toffee apple, pear, clementine, brown sugar and toasted oak. The palate showcases hazelnuts, milk chocolate, and raisins. The finish is oaky with gentle vanilla.