Whisk(e)y Reviews

The Bitter Battle Manhattan vs. Boulevardier

Few cocktail debates are as quietly divisive as Manhattan versus Boulevardier. Both are spirit-forward. Both lean bitter-sweet. Both have devoted followers who insist their choice is the only correct one. At the heart of it, this is not really a battle of recipes, but a question of preference, mood, and occasion.

Articles, Cocktails, Round Ups, Whisk(e)y, Whisky

The Old Fashioned Framework [& 9 Variations on the Classic]

The Old Fashioned is often treated as a fixed recipe, but it is better understood as a framework. At its core, it is simply spirit, sugar, bitters, and intention. Change one element and the entire drink shifts, which is exactly why it remains one of the most enduring cocktails ever created. This guide is built to help you think beyond a single formula and start building Old Fashioneds with confidence.

Articles, Cocktails, Round Ups, Whisk(e)y, Whisky

Smoky Spirits Gift Guide (2025 Edition)

Smoke is one of the most polarizing flavors in the spirits world. Some people chase it obsessively, others run in the opposite direction. That tension is exactly what makes smoky spirits such compelling gifts.

Articles, Round Ups, Smoky Spirits, Whisk(e)y

Spirits From Japan Gift Guide (2025 Edition)

Japanese spirits inspire obsession, debate, and devotion. This guide focuses on flavor, craft, and character across multiple Japanese styles, because what matters most is what’s in the glass.

Articles, International Whisky, Round Ups, Whisk(e)y

Scotch Gift Guide (2025 Edition)

Whether you’re shopping for the collector who must have the newest limited drop, the friend who always brings a bottle to share, or someone just stepping into the world of single malt, we’ve curated the perfect picks. Each bottle in this guide is chosen based on who it suits and why it makes an unforgettable connection gift.

Articles, Round Ups, Scotch, Whisk(e)y

Canadian Whisky Gift Guide (2025 Edition)

Canadian whisky is having a moment and this gift guide proves exactly why. From grain-to-glass single malts on the West Coast to bold ryes from Ontario and flavour-driven blends from coast to coast, we’ve curated bottles for every type of drinker: the Adventurous Explorer, the Bourbon Lover, the Casual Cocktailer and more.

Articles, Canadian Whisky, Round Ups, Whisk(e)y

Port Askaig 8 Year

Port Askaig 8 Year is the quiet overachiever of Islay. It is smoky enough to satisfy peat lovers, gentle enough for newcomers, and blended with a precision that makes it far more sophisticated than its age suggests. A coastal, smoky, beautifully balanced snapshot of Islay in a glass.

Scotch, Single Malt, Smoky Spirits, Spirits, Whisk(e)y

Glenfarclas 105

Glenfarclas 105 takes its name from the old British proof system, where ABV was multiplied by 1.75 to determine “proof.” At 60 per cent ABV, this classic cask strength release lands at 105 proof. It delivers bold, full bodied character while remaining true to Glenfarclas tradition and sherry influenced elegance.

Scotch, Single Malt, Spirits, Whisk(e)y

Hollyrood Embra

Holyrood Embra is the “I swear you actually like peated whisky” whisky. Light peat, big personality, triple cask swagger, and yeast experiments galore. It is smoky enough to impress your whisky nerd friends, but smooth enough that your peat-hating aunt will suddenly have “just one more sip.” Basically, the gateway dram that might ruin you for all other gateway drams.

Scotch, Smoky Spirits, Spirits, Whisk(e)y

Ardbeg Wee Beastie (5 Year)

A little but mighty, Wee Beastie roars with intense smoky energy, youthful vitality, and earthy grit. Think smoked bacon and tar mingling with grassy bell peppers and juicy mango. On the palate, it fills with hay, cigar-box earth, and pine resin before finishing long and salty—a briny echo steeped in pepper spice, cocoa, and cured meat. It’s raw, feisty, and unforgettable—an approachable entry point into Ardbeg’s peaty world that still packs a punch.

Scotch, Single Malt, Smoky Spirits, Spirits, Whisk(e)y

Elements of Islay Sherry Cask

Dark, smoky, and sinfully rich, this sherry-matured Islay blend doesn’t whisper—it broods. Elements of Islay Sherry Cask delivers waves of red fruit, tar, and saline smoke wrapped in incense and leathery spice. With echoes of Lapsang souchong and old cigar boxes, it’s intense without being aggressive, and balanced by a lemony lift and juicy finish. If you’ve ever wished for a peated whisky that wore a velvet robe over its steel frame, this is it.

Scotch, Single Malt, Smoky Spirits, Spirits, Whisk(e)y

Bearface Wilderness Series 03: Wild Air

This isn’t your standard Canadian whisky—it’s a wild creature born from Bearface’s boundary-pushing outdoor aging program. Wild Air harnesses nature’s influence in every drop, with aromas of maple-laced popcorn and incense, a palate full of pine resin, leather, grapefruit, and spiced vanilla, and a finish that’s creamy and softly smoked. It’s bold, strange, and delicious in all the right ways—a whisky for those who want their pour to taste like a Canadian forest kissed by fire and aged in the elements.

Canadian Whisky, Smoky Spirits, Spirits, Whisk(e)y

Ardbeg Smokiverse

Celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Ardbeg Committee, Smokiverse blasts off with a high‑gravity mash that turns up creamy tropical fruit amid Ardbeg’s signature intense peat. Bottled at 48.3%, it’s both explosively smoky and surprisingly sweet—think smoked bubblegum, tropical esters, bonfire embers. Fiercely experimental yet unmistakably Ardbeg, it’s a thrilling sip neat and a bold twist in smoky cocktails.

Scotch, Single Malt, Smoky Spirits, Spirits, Whisk(e)y

Hearach First Fill Oloroso Cask Matured

Lightly peated and fully aged exclusively in first-fill Oloroso sherry butts, this Isle of Harris expression marries delicate smoke with rich, dried-red-fruit sweetness. Versatile and sippable, it’s a solid gateway to peated sherry cask whisky, though its subtler profile might get overshadowed in cocktails. Distinct but refined.

Scotch, Single Malt, Smoky Spirits, Spirits, Whisk(e)y

Glen Moray Peated

If Bowmore 12 is your go-to smoky dram, Glen Moray Peated deserves a spot in your glass. Mellow smoke, orchard fruit, and a creamy malt backbone make this Speyside malt an approachable, budget-friendly bottle that punches above its weight—and plays well in cocktails too.

Scotch, Single Malt, Smoky Spirits, Spirits, Whisk(e)y

The Japanese Bitters

The Japanese Bitters is a premium bitters line handcrafted in Japan, blending traditional Japanese ingredients with modern mixology precision. These aren’t just flavor enhancers — they’re thoughtful, terroir-driven expressions designed to elevate cocktails with a distinctly Japanese identity. Each flavor adds depth and nuance to classic and contemporary drinks alike.

International Whisky, Modifiers, Single Malt, Spirits, Whisk(e)y

Shinobu Pure Malt

Shinobu Pure Malt is a Japanese malt whisky blend aged in ex-sherry and bourbon barrels, then finished in Mizunara oak. With notes of vanilla, coconut, spice, and grass, it’s a light-bodied, youthful whisky that balances freshness with a touch of Eastern wood influence.

International Whisky, Single Malt, Spirits, Whisk(e)y

Sorachi Hinoki Cask

Sorachi Hinoki Cask is a Japanese-made malt blend finished in Hinoki (Japanese cypress) casks, delivering a unique sensory experience that combines malt richness with temple wood, spice, and orchard fruit. A contemplative, wood-forward spirit with a dry, spicy edge.

Blended Whisky, International Whisky, Spirits, Whisk(e)y

Kujira 10 Year

Kujira 10 Year is a grain whisky made from 100% Indica rice and aged in Virgin American Oak casks, delivering a bold, umami-rich profile with layers of butterscotch, miso, and tropical spice. Unique and expressive, it’s a conversation-starter with a sweet-savory edge unlike anything else in Japanese whisky.

International Whisky, Single Grain, Spirits, Whisk(e)y

Okayama Single Malt Triple Cask

A delicate yet complex Japanese single malt aged in three types of oak—sherry, brandy, and mizunara—Okayama Triple Oak brings soft fruit, sandalwood spice, and gentle warmth. Elegant, floral, and slightly nutty, it’s a refined pour with a uniquely layered personality

International Whisky, Single Malt, Spirits, Whisk(e)y

Masahiro Kaijin

Masahiro Kaijin is a maritime-inspired Japanese whisky from Okinawa’s Masahiro Shuzo. “Kaijin” translates to “seaman,” and the whisky pays homage to those who face the vast ocean—Okinawa’s symbolic force. A blend of grain and aged malt whiskies, Kaijin is light-bodied but rich, with exotic tropical notes and a polished, elegant finish. It reflects the distillery’s 140-year history and craftsmanship.

Blended Whisky, International Whisky, Spirits, Whisk(e)y

Taste Profile Comparison: Nikka Malts

Japanese whisky lovers know that Nikka doesn’t just make whisky—they tell stories in glass. Within their core lineup, three distinct voices come through: the bold seafaring call of Yoichi, the gentle mountain whisper of Miyagikyo, and the balanced harmony of Taketsuru, their blended malt. On their own, each expression reflects a unique sense of place and production. But tasted side by side, something intriguing happens.

Articles, International Whisky, Round Ups, Single Malt, Spirits, Whisk(e)y

Hibiki Harmony

Hibiki Harmony is smooth, floral, and beautifully blended—a polished introduction to the elegance of Japanese whisky. It’s light enough for newcomers, layered enough for aficionados, and lives up to its name with effortless balance.

Blended Whisky, International Whisky, Spirits, Whisk(e)y

Suntory Toki

Suntory Toki is a light, bright Japanese whisky built for mixing but smooth enough to sip. With notes of green apple, honey, and white pepper, it’s a modern, versatile crowd-pleaser that shines in a highball.

Blended Whisky, International Whisky, Spirits, Whisk(e)y

Kirishima Melt Barley

For bourbon drinkers, rum lovers, or shochu fans, Kirishima Melt Barley is a gateway sipper with a twist. Bourbon drinkers will appreciate the caramel, vanilla, and oak warmth; rum fans will vibe with its soft sweetness and round texture; and shochu drinkers will recognize the gentle fermentation notes and koji character. It’s familiar enough to feel cozy—but just different enough to feel exciting.

International Whisky, Spirits, Whisk(e)y

Nikka from the Barrel

Nikka From the Barrel is a bold, blended Japanese whisky that’s earned cult status among enthusiasts for good reason. First released in 1985, it was crafted to capture the full flavor and complexity typically reserved for blenders—offering a rare glimpse “from the barrel” straight to your glass. With a higher-than-usual ABV of 51.4%, this expression delivers a rich, layered profile that punches above its price point. It’s a marriage of more than 100 malt and grain whiskies from Nikka’s Miyagikyo and Yoichi distilleries, blended and then re-casked to harmonize before bottling. The result? A beautifully balanced whisky with notes of dried fruit, spice, vanilla, and toasty oak that lingers long after the last sip. It’s not just a bottle—it’s a statement.

Blended Whisky, International Whisky, Spirits, Whisk(e)y

Taste Profile Comparison: Redbreast 12, 18 and PX Cask

In this edition, we’re diving deep into the sherried, spice-laced world of Redbreast. Known for setting the benchmark in single pot still Irish whiskey, Redbreast has long been celebrated for its silky texture, rich dried fruit notes, and balanced oak influence.

We’ll compare the classic 12 Year, a gold-standard for many whiskey lovers, with two newer expressions that push the profile in bold new directions: the PX Edition, finished in Pedro Ximénez casks for a dessert-like twist, and the brand-new 18 Year, which promises even more depth, maturity, and elegance.

So… how much can flavour change with time, wood, and ambition? Let’s find out.

Articles, Irish Whiskey, Round Ups, Spirits, Whisk(e)y

Tullamore D.E.W.

An OG Irish whiskey, Tullamore D.E.W. blend will have you wanting a triple—triple-distilled, three styles of whiskey, and triple-cask aged creates an effortlessly drinkable dram.

Irish Whiskey, Spirits, Whisk(e)y

Glendalough Double Barrel

Single Grain whiskey doesn’t get enough love—Glendalough Double Barrel changes that with a smooth, easy-drinking profile and the added depth of bourbon and sherry cask maturation.

Irish Whiskey, Spirits, Whisk(e)y

Green Spot Irish Single Pot Still Whiskey

Greenspot is a piece of Irish whiskey history—crafted at Midleton, rooted in Dublin’s past, and beloved by those who appreciate a tropical fruit-forward pot still whiskey…

Irish Whiskey, Spirits, Whisk(e)y

Busker Irish Single Malt Whiskey

If you’re looking to get into single malts, this is your gateway whiskey. Triple distilled and matured in bourbon and sherry casks, Busker Irish Single Malt is smooth, approachable, and packed with character…

Irish Whiskey, Single Malt, Spirits, Whisk(e)y

Two Brewers Release 44

Nestled in the rugged beauty of Whitehorse, Yukon, Two Brewers Distillery is carving out a unique place in the Canadian whisky landscape. Born from the creativity and expertise of Yukon Brewing, Two Brewers crafts small-batch single malt whiskies that reflect the untamed spirit of the North.

Canadian Whisky, Single Malt, Spirits, Whisk(e)y

Sanctuary Whisky [2024 Release]

On Vancouver Island, where craft beer runs deep, Phillips Brewing & Malting Co. pays homage to its roots with Sanctuary Whisky. Aged in barrels that once cradled bourbon, beer, and wine, this distinctive single malt captures the island’s spirit—bold, innovative, and undeniably unique.

Canadian Whisky, Single Malt, Spirits, Whisk(e)y

Signal Hill Founder’s Select OP

Signal Hill Founder’s Select Overproof is rich and candied blended Canadian whisky, crafted from a distinctive blend of corn and malted barley. Bottled at 59.4% ABV, this overproof whisky highlights the natural sweetness of its grains, delivering a robust yet balanced profile. The corn lends a smooth, creamy sweetness, while the malted barley adds layers of depth and complexity.

Blended Whisky, Canadian Whisky, Spirits, Whisk(e)y

Sons of Vancouver Realms of Rye Release #1

Sons of Vancouver Distillery is redefining Canadian rye whisky with their Realms of Rye Edition 1, the first in a series of limited-release 100% rye whiskies. Designed to explore the vast flavour spectrum rye grain can offer, this collection showcases the artistry of fermentation, maturation, and blending—absent of added flavourings, colourants, or specialty barrel finishes.

Much like Scotland’s single malts or America’s bourbons, Realms of Rye celebrates the versatility of its core ingredient. Edition 1 was aged in a combination of ex-bourbon and new American oak casks, resulting in a complex profile with notes of orange peel, coriander seed, black tea, and raw sugar. Each sip is a journey into the unconventional realms of Canadian rye whisky, crafted to challenge expectations and highlight its untapped potential.

Canadian Whisky, Rye, Spirits, Whisk(e)y

Shelter Point Blacktail Rye

Shelter Point Distillery, renowned for its exceptional single malts, steps into new territory with Blacktail Rye—a masterful blend of rye and malted barley grains. This unique combination brings together the spicy, robust character of rye with the smooth, biscuity sweetness of malted barley, creating a whisky that’s complex yet approachable.

Canadian Whisky, Rye, Spirits, Whisk(e)y

Stillhead Bartender’s Rye

Stillhead Distillery’s Bartender’s Rye is a true celebration that is grain-forward letting bold, spicy, herbaceous character take centre stage. Designed with mixologists in mind, Bartender’s Rye is a versatile performer that shines in both classic and creative cocktails. But here’s the catch—you won’t find it on store shelves. This exclusive release is only available at select local bars across BC, making it a hidden treasure for those in the know. If you want to experience the pure, unfiltered charm of a grain-forward rye, your best bet is to hunt it down at your favourite BC watering hole.

Canadian Whisky, Rye, Spirits, Whisk(e)y

Macaloney An Aba

Macaloney Island Distillery’s An Aba is a testament to the craft and creativity of Canadian whisky-making, rooted in the rugged beauty of Vancouver Island. This unique single malt takes its name from the Scots Gaelic term for “The Abbey,” paying homage to the distillery’s Scottish heritage while embracing its Pacific Northwest identity.

Canadian Whisky, Single Malt, Smoky Spirits, Spirits, Whisk(e)y

Forty Creek Foxheart

Forty Creek Foxheart cleverly showcases the creativity allowed under the Canadian whisky 9.09% rule, which permits up to 9.09% of the blend to include non-whisky ingredients. Taking full advantage of this flexibility, Foxheart incorporates 12-year-old Caribbean rum, adding a luscious tropical dimension to its flavour profile.

Blended Whisky, Canadian Whisky, Spirits, Whisk(e)y

Highland Park Magnus

Highland Park Magnus is an entry-level Scotch designed to offer a smooth, lightly smoky, and approachable introduction to peated whisky, appealing to both new drinkers and fans of the distillery’s Orkney style.

Scotch, Single Malt, Smoky Spirits, Spirits, Whisk(e)y

Jura 12 Year

Jura 12-Year-Old is a well-rounded single malt Scotch aged in ex-bourbon barrels and finished in Oloroso sherry casks. It’s known for striking a balance between sweetness, gentle smoke, and subtle complexity. This whisky showcases the distillery’s signature smooth, approachable style—perfect for both seasoned fans and those just dipping their toes into the world of peated Scotch.

Scotch, Single Malt, Smoky Spirits, Spirits, Whisk(e)y

Elements of Islay Cask Edit

With a moderate 46% ABV, Cask Edit embodies the essence of Islay in a way that’s versatile and easy to enjoy for both newcomers and seasoned enthusiasts alike.

Scotch, Single Malt, Smoky Spirits, Spirits, Whisk(e)y

Torabhaig Allt Gleann

Torabhaig Allt Gleann stands out among peated whiskies by delivering a nuanced smoke that balances intensity with elegance. Sourced from grain peated to 75 ppm, it achieves a unique character after maturation, mellowing to a maritime, earthy profile with phenol levels settling at 17 ppm. Unlike Islay’s typically medicinal peat, Torabhaig’s smoke feels more coastal and floral, weaving hints of brine and wild heather into the experience.

Scotch, Single Malt, Smoky Spirits, Spirits, Whisk(e)y

The Deacon

The Deacon Blended Scotch Whisky is a cocktail-forward blend that embraces a bold, funky character, making it ideal for both sipping and mixing. This whisky is crafted to highlight the duality of smoky Islay peat and the gentle, bonfire-like smoke of Speyside. Its nose offers notes of burnt orange and forest smoke, while the palate balances juicy citrus with earthy peat and subtle spice.

Scotch, Single Malt, Smoky Spirits, Spirits, Whisk(e)y

Glenfiddich Fire & Cane

Glenfiddich Fire & Cane is a bold and innovative expression that combines peated and unpeated single malts, finished in rum casks. This unique fusion offers an intriguing balance of campfire smoke and toffee sweetness. Fire & Cane challenges expectations with its smooth yet smoky profile, perfect for adventurous whisky enthusiasts.

Scotch, Single Malt, Smoky Spirits, Spirits, Whisk(e)y

John Barr

John Barr Blended Scotch is a smooth, no-nonsense whisky that’s perfect for mixing. Crafted from a blend of malt and grain whiskies, it’s got just the right balance of caramel, vanilla, and a touch of soft smoke. Whether you’re shaking up an Old Fashioned, stirring a Rob Roy, or just pouring it over ice, John Barr brings the flavor without stealing the spotlight.

Scotch, Single Malt, Smoky Spirits, Spirits, Whisk(e)y

The Hearach Single Malt [Rel 1 HE 00003 23]

Hearach Single Malt (pronounced hare-OCK) offers a compelling glimpse into the distinctive character of the Isle of Harris. This whisky is a masterful blend of tradition and innovation, presenting a complex flavor profile that marries maritime influence with rich, peaty notes.

Scotch, Single Malt, Smoky Spirits, Spirits, Whisk(e)y

Glenglassaugh 12 Year

Carefully crafted and cask-perfected at The GlenAllachie Distillery in Speyside, Meikle Toir – The Chinquapin One is named after the unique species of virgin oak used for maturation. While only 5 years old, it’s bursting with notes of vanilla, burnt toffee, nuttiness, florals and sweet smoke.

Scotch, Single Malt, Smoky Spirits, Spirits, Whisk(e)y

Glenfarclas 17 Year

Glenfarclas 17 Year is a classic, richly sherried Scotch that has earned its place among tried-and-true single malts. Known for its full-bodied, caramel-forward profile, it offers layers of toffee, dried fruit, and a subtle smokiness that whisky lovers savour. Aged in sherry casks, this whisky stands out for its traditional Highland character, balancing sweetness with a touch of spice.

Scotch, Single Malt, Spirits, Whisk(e)y

Glenfiddich 14 Year

Glenfiddich 14 is a smooth, easy-drinking whisky with a nice mix of vanilla sweetness and a touch of spice that’s perfect for Scotch newbies.

Scotch, Single Malt, Spirits, Whisk(e)y

The Balvenie 12 Year

The Balvenie 12 Year Old is a quintessential Speyside single malt, known for its rich, honeyed character and artisanal craftsmanship. Aged in a combination of traditional oak and ex-bourbon casks, this whisky is renowned for its smooth, well-rounded profile, with notes of vanilla, honey, and a subtle hint of spice.

Scotch, Single Malt, Spirits, Whisk(e)y