Renowned importer and bottler of spirits, La Maison du Whisky (LMDW) has put together a range of very exclusive rare spirits which they fondly term their 'Collector's Selection'. We're talking about bottles that have seen more history than most of us. Think spirits from the 1980s' to 90s' and some that go as far back as the 1950s'. According to LMDW, these bottles come from decades of handshakes, connections with renowned distilleries and trading houses across the globe. 

If you've tried a sip of "old style Scotch", you'd also know that the production methods and ingredients from these bygone eras often create distinctive taste profiles that are not replicable with modern methods. These bottles are also almost certainly to be incredibly limited, a factor worth considering if you're mulling over a bottle of Scotch of Cognac with that shares the same birth year as someone close to your heart. 

LMDW has unveiled their latest Collector's Selection lineup, which are currently available for purchase by the bottle at the La Maison du Whisky Singapore specialty bar. Let's take a moment to window shop and have a look at a couple of bottle highlights that pique our interest this month. 

Del Maguey Chichicapa Aged Mezcal, Weller, Old Rip Van Winkle Casks, 10 Years Old, 46% ABV

Price: S$388.00

One of the most unique offerings that caught our eye is without a doubt Del Maguey's Chichicapa aged mezcal.

While Del Maguey, as a brand, has carved a reputation for producing exemplary mezcals, this particular expression stands apart as its 10-year maturation took place in bourbon barrels, but not just any barrels. These barrels once held the cult brand Old Rip Van Winkle Bourbon, as well as the renowned Weller bourbon. This imparts a nuanced layer to the mezcal, subtly intertwining the smoky agave profile with whispers of bourbon's character.

27-Year-Old Glendronach 1955, bottled by Gordon & MacPhail for Meregalli Import, 40% ABV

Price: S$3,999.00

The standout bottle from the latest lineup in our opinion is the 27-Year-Old Glendronach 1955 with a 'Gradient Brown' Label. 

This was distilled at the famous Glendronach Distillery and bottled by Gordon & MacPhail, one of the oldest and most respected Scotch whisky merchants. This bottle is notable for being one of the earliest releases of their iconic Connoisseurs Choice line.

The Connoisseurs Choice range, as enthusiasts might know, is a flagship of Gordon & MacPhail. Its roots trace back to the early 1970s when it was created specifically for legendary Italian whisky bottler, Edoardo Giaccone's company (Meregalli Import). By 1979, the Connoisseurs Choice was a mainstay in Gordon & MacPhail's offerings.

A noteworthy mention for discerning drinkers is the evolution of the Connoisseurs Choice line over time. The older editions, like this bottling were, bore some artificial colouring. The present-day releases from this line proudly display their natural colours.

Ben Nevis 21-Year-Old 1996 Small Batch for LMDW, 55.5% ABV

Price: S$999.00

Next up is this official Ben Nevis Distillery release. Situated under the towering Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the British Isles, this distillery has a reputation for consistent and dependable releases. And this bottle is no different, showcasing the signature traits that aficionados associate with the distillery's productions.

This 21-year-old single malt bottled at a potent 55.5% ABV, was bottled exclusively for La Maison du Whisky. The spirit within started its journey at Fort William in 1996 and spent 21 dedicated years maturing in second-fill sherry casks before it was bottled in 2018. 

Widow Jane 'Lucky 13' Bourbon Single Barrel Conquête, 99 Proof

Now, we turn our attention to an American entrant: the Widow Jane 'Lucky 13' Bourbon. Handpicked by LMDW, this straight bourbon whisky stands as a testament to meticulous selection and nuanced maturation.

The distillation process for this bourbon introduces a unique element: pure limestone mineral water. This water, renowned for its clarity and purity, plays a pivotal role in crafting the bourbon's character. Named "Lucky 13", this particular bottling makes its mark with a commendable smoothness that harmonises with its robust 99 proof strength. According to LMDW's catalogue, its impact is undeniable and leaves an impression "in the manner of [Princess] Ariadne's thread" in the Greek story of Theseus and the Minotaur.

Blanton’s Single Barrel #328 France Conquête

Price: S$1,500.00

The Blanton's France Conquête is a limited-edition Blanton’s bourbon, released exclusively for France through LMDW.

The highly-popular Blanton’s was introduced in 1984 by Master Distiller Elmer T. Lee, and originally targeted the Japanese market for bourbon. This was also the first single barrel bourbon on the market. Like all Blanton's expressions, this was matured in the distillery's famous Warehouse H. 

34 Years Old Caol Ila 1981, Bottled by Gordon & MacPhail for LMDW, 59%

Price: S$1,550.00

Finally, there's the time-honoured 34 Years Old Caol Ila 1981 bottled by the venerable Gordon & MacPhail.

Hailing from Islay, Caol Ila Distillery is known to produce single malts that are very well regarded by enthusiasts. When it comes to old Caol Ila expressions, some have even drawn comparisons between them and the highly sought-after Port Ellen, dubbing old Caol Ila expressions a more accessible alternative. Despite these comparisons, each individual expression nonetheless holds its own charm and profile. 

Kanpai!

88 Bamboo Editorial Team