Enter the world of sophisticated flavours, distinctive aromas and a touch of timeless elegance. We fill our glasses and toast the top 10 whiskies of 2023!
2023 has brought us a wonderful selection of divine distillates. From the mysterious highlands of Scotland to the lush hills of Ireland and far beyond. Whether you're a seasoned whisky connoisseur or just starting to discover this craft spirit, this list will entice you with its enchanting variety and unparalleled quality. So pull up a comfy chair, prepare for an unforgettable journey through the world of whisky and let your taste buds be surprised by this year's crème de la crème.
Place 10: Arran The Bodega Sherry
Arran The Bodega Sherry is a whisky from Scotland by the Arran brand. It falls within the whisky group under the Single Malt category. This whisky comes from the Isle Of Arran region.
The spicy, as well as fruity flavours are quite present, but do not dominate. They help determine the flavour, profile and character of this drink but are less decisive as any strong notes. Woody hints are noticeable, but these flavours are only slightly present. They add extra character and depth to this drink, without really pushing it in any particular direction.
Based on this profile, you can conclude that this whisky has a fairly distinct character.
Place 9: The Dalmore Cigar Reserve
The Dalmore C igar Reserve is a whisky from Scotland by The Dalmore brand.
The Dalmore Distillery has been producing exceptional single malt whisky since 1839 and was owned by the Clan Mackenzie for almost a century. The clan's defining influence on the distillery is still evident, with the iconic royal deer antlers, taken from the clan Mackenzie's family crest, adorning every bottle of The Dalmore. This single malt whisky gets its unique character from a careful selection of matured whisky sourced from casks of three types: American ex-bourbon casks, 30-year-old Matusalem oloroso sherry casks and premier cru Cabernet Sauvignon wine barriques.
Place 8: Arran Barrel Reserve
Arran Barrel Reserve 43° is a whisky from Scotland from the Arran brand. It falls within the whisky group under the Single Malt category. This whisky comes from the Isle Of Arran region and is matured in Bourbon Barrel casks.
The fruity flavours are quite present but do not dominate. They help determine the flavour, profile and character of this drink but are less decisive as any strong notes. Floral, as well as woody hints are noticeable, but these flavours are only slightly present. They add extra character and depth to this drink, without really pushing it in any particular direction.
Based on this profile, you can conclude that this whisky has a fairly soft character, without extremes.
Place 7: Arran 10 year old
The Arran 10yo is a fresh and lively Arran malt expression with all the characteristics of the classic Arran style. Vanilla and citrus dominate in this smooth, mellow dram from Scotland.
Nose: the initial sweet vanilla gives way to slow-distilled fruit-kiwi, banana, melon-with a hint of cocoa powder on top;
Mouth: the touch of cinnamon adds spice to the soft, sweet texture that caresses the palate. The classic citrus flavours of Arran against a background of sweet oak.
Finish: flows over the tongue like golden syrup and gently disappears.
Place 6: Tamnavulin Sherry
Tamnavulin Sherry Cask entered the market shortly after the successful launch of Tamnavulin Double Cask and is matured in American oak casks and given a finish in Oloroso sherry casks. A very affordable, high-quality whisky, this lesser-known distillery is going to make itself heard.
Nose: vanilla and cake, citrus and soft ginger.
Mouth: true to the nose with more pronounced flavours of pastry and citrus, followed by sultanas and candied sugar.
Finish: long-lasting, complex with orchard fruit, orange leading the way.
Place 5: Teeling Duvel Small Batch 2023
The Teeling Duvel Small Batch 2023 is a whisky from Ireland from the Teeling brand.
A similar bottling to the previous Teeling Small Batch Duvel Collaboration, also at 46%, yet a subtle difference because of the longer cask maturation. Edition 1 came in a white box, edition 2 (and immediately the last one) comes in a black box, so impossible to be mistaken!
Place 4: The Dalmore 15 years old
Launched in 2007,The Dalmore 15 years old single malt whisky is one of the most popular expressions in The Dalmore range. It is matured for 12 years in ex-bourbon casks of American white oak and then three years in three different sherry casks - Amoroso, Apostoles and Matusalem oloroso.
Place 3: Glendronach 12y
Glendronach 12y 43° is a whisky from Scotland by the Glendronach brand. It falls within the whisky group under the Single Malt category. This whisky comes from the Highland region.
Fully matured in sherry casks (Oloroso for dry fruits and spices, Pedro Ximenez for grapes and sweetness), this 12-year-old version of Billy Walker revives the tradition of this Highlands grand cru.
Nose: powerful, uncompromising, dominated by sherry. Tones of honey, nuts and coffee. The nose evolves over fruit, quinces and stewed apples. Slightly exotic towards the end. It becomes more exuberant over fruitcake, chocolate, and almond milk.
Mouth: tannins, coated in dark chocolate. Spicy. Sesame oil. The return of fruit combined with liquorice.
Finish: develops over fresh malt. Fresh.
Place 2: Nikka From The Barrel
Nikka "From the Barrel" with its very recognisable bottle is one of the great classics of Japanese whisky. It is a blended whisky that comes from sherry casks, bourbon, re-roasted bourbon casks and new casks! The care taken by Nikka's Master Blender gives this whisky a rarely seen powerful, complex flavour.
The nose is fine and complex with a floral, fruity pointe. Then spices and leather rear their heads alongside cloves, vanilla, nougat with almonds and caramel.
The palate is very powerful and determined, evolving over caramelised apple, cooked peach and dates.
The finish is long with a maritime touch over vanilla and plum jam.
Place 1: Dalmore 12y
Dalmore 12 Year Old is a powerful Highland single malt. Many expressions of The Dalmore illustrate the possibilities of maturation in sherry casks. Maturation of this 12yo begins in bourbon casks. Half of the whisky is then transferred to sherry casks, and this half is blended again with the whisky matured entirely in bourbon casks to create this elegant classic.
Nose: very pronounced and malty. Floral and fruity (peach, apricot), evolving into brioche, cocoa powder and orange marmalade.
Flavour: nicely balanced between sweet and bitter. Tasty and smooth, reaffirming aromas of orange. Continues with nuts and a salty touch.
Finish: long and spicy (mint) and vegetal to finish with a pinch of salt.
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I've known Broekmans since I graduated in 2006 and thanks to Jan I've come to know the passion for spirits. I dedicate myself every day to the webshop, customer service and all the IT involved. In my spare time, besides whiskey, I can also really enjoy rum, but just as much as a gin tonic or a simple bellini. In the words of Martien Meiland, if there's no alcohol in it, don't call me!
