Laizhou Chinese single malt is redefining expectations — explore the distillery’s story and my reviews of three whiskies that showcase its surprising quality and character.
Category: Whisky Review
Ki One – South Korean Single Malt Review – Eagle, Tiger and Unicorn
Ki One marks the beginning of South Korea’s single malt journey. Produced at Three Societies Distillery in the Namyangju mountains, these Eagle, Tiger, and Unicorn expressions offer a glimpse into the exciting future of Korean whisky.
E.H. Taylor Small Batch Bourbon Review
After a year and a half of waiting, I finally opened my bottle of E.H. Taylor Small Batch Bourbon—and it was worth every second. From old oak and honey to creamy vanilla and cherry syrup, this Bottled-in-Bond classic delivered a beautifully balanced pour.
Heaven Hill Bottled-in-Bond Review
Heaven Hill Bottled-in-Bond is a classic bourbon that’s earned plenty of praise in the US, but with Aussie prices hitting $180–$220, is it still worth it? I take a closer look at the tasting profile and value of this 100-proof bourbon to see if it lives up to the hype — and the hefty price tag.
Hellyers Road American Oak 22 Year Old vs 12 Year Old
Hellyers Road’s oldest whisky to date — the American Oak 22 Year Old, limited to just 80 bottles, and recently claimed a World Whiskies Award. But how does it compare to the more accessible American Oak 12 Year Old? I tasted both side by side to find out.
Morris Family Durif Single Barrel
Discover the Morris Family Durif Single Barrel, a rare Australian single malt aged in a single Durif wine cask from Rutherglen. This rich, decadent whisky captures the region’s bold character with layers of chocolate, biscuit, and dark fruit.
Hellyers Road Peated 21 Year Old
Named Best Australian Single Malt at the World Whiskies Awards 2025, the Hellyers Road Peated 21 Year Old is a rare milestone release. This 52.5% cask strength whisky is limited to just 300 bottles. Complex, balanced, and subtly smoky, it showcases the heights Tasmanian whisky can achieve.
Russell’s Reserve 10 Year Old
Russell’s Reserve 10 Year Old isn’t just a great bourbon — it’s the bottle that opened my eyes to the depth and complexity American whiskey can offer. Rich caramel, creamy vanilla, and a subtle rye spice make this small-batch classic endlessly sip-worthy and a permanent fixture in my cabinet.
Ardbeg An Oa – Committee Release
Ardbeg An Oa showcases the distillery’s gentler side. Married from sherry, virgin oak and bourbon casks, it balances sweetness, spice and signature Islay smoke. Smooth, well-rounded, and endlessly drinkable, it’s the perfect introduction to Ardbeg — and proof that even the most intense distilleries can master subtlety.
Ardbeg Blaaack – Committee Release
Ardbeg Blaaack celebrates 20 years of the Ardbeg Committee with a daring twist — maturation in New Zealand Pinot Noir casks. The result is a smoky yet sweet dram that blends red fruit, peat, and playful innovation in perfect balance. A true cult whisky that proves Ardbeg’s creativity is as bold as its flavour.