The Chaps at Master of Malt

The nose is rich and full with a well-harnessed sweetness. There are notes of acacia honey and buttery vanilla, notes of mixed wild berries and Creme de fraise. Hints of gooseberries with dry ropes and creamy citrus and smoke. The palate is complex and well-balanced. There are notes of aged Cuban rum with a touch of dark, yet quite subservient peat. The smoke rises gently, coerced by a rather persuasive sherry. The finish is long and smoky with plenty of sherry notes.

Nose: Rich honey aromas combine with sweet lime zest and vanilla.
Taste: Subtle apple notes lead to a hint of fudge. Sweet flavours of honeydew melon and lemon are accompanied by soft white pepper.
Finish: Medium bodied finish, smooth with toasted oak.

This Amber Coloured Whisky:
Is very rich and concentrated on the nose with dark fruits - plums, blackberries - combined with beef stock, the darkest chocolate and a slight rubberiness.
Is very savoury on the palate with more beef stock along with herbal-amaro type notes and a rich, European oak influence.
Has a long, lingering and complex finish.

MacNair’s Lum Reek is a range of blended malts produced by the GlenAllachie Distillers Company. Created by Billy Walker, this composition is built around peated Islay and Speyside whiskies, mixed with GlenAllachie single malt. The whiskies are drawn from a combination of Oloroso, virgin oak and red wine casks. Nose: a nice start on elegant smoke, tobacco leaves and hints of cedar wood, mixed with raisin sweetness, toffee and a good dose of vanilla. Plum jam. Cinnamon. Lemon zest. Hints of cocoa in the background. Maybe not hugely expressive – elegance is key here.

Taste: s layered combination of dry and sweet notes again. Peaches, marmalade and berries, some honey and dark chocolate. Some old leather and pleasant woody touches. Toffee. Pepper. The earthy smoke is present but never overpowering.

Finish: medium to long, more ashy and spicy with lingering cocoa.

When 007 is ready to celebrate, he reaches for a bottle of Champagne Bollinger. The official champagne of James Bond since 1979, Champagne Bollinger is ready to commemorate the 40th anniversary of their partnership with a special limited edition release. The release pays homage to Moonraker, the film on which the Bond and Bollinger partnership began. The bubbly is packaged in a Moonraker inspired space shuttle box made from pewter and wood veneer that holds a Saint Louis crystal ice bucket and a magnum of Champagne Bollinger 2007. Only 407 were made, each of which arrives numbered and was crafted and finished by hand.

Lightly aged for two months in oak barrels, this offers subtle complexities of fresh agave, oak, citrus, and honey with a light amber hue. Smooth and sweet on the palate with exceptional balance; the finish is highlighted with flavours of floral and vanilla notes.

The Tesseron Lot No 29 Exception is a well-aged blend, truly worthy of its name. A unique XO, made up of Grande Champagne eaux-de-vie - this Cognac’s maturation process has passed through at least three generations of the Tesseron family who have dedicated their passion and love for Cognac through the family business. With fresh and floral fragrances, Lot No 29 unveils velvety aromas of mocha chocolate alongside dried fruit and hints of honey. Its prevailing rancio is characterized by the decades spent in old oak barrels - a true jewel of the Grande Champagne cru.

Tasting notes:

Eye: Lustrous topaz
Nose: Heady, decadent, layers of honey, figs, plums & exotic fruit laced with oak. Sumptuous and silky, this Cognac retains freshness and vitality.
Palate: Supremely elegant, combining dried fruit with hints of mocha and cocoa, refreshed by floral aromatics. Extremely well balanced and complex, with marmalade notes emerging on a persistent finish.

A very special Mortlach, released as part of the Diageo Special Releases 2022. This takes a left turn compared to most other Mortlach whiskies, which are traditionally aged in sherry casks, and looks at other wines. It was finished in red-muscat and tawny-port casks, and also has a little bit of virgin-oak-finished whisky in the mix. The result is big, rich and spicy, with layers of dark red fruit flavour.

Japan has come a long way with making whisky with many master distillers taking their training right in Scotland and importing the Scottish heather for peat making. There is much quality here in Japanese whisky and dad would no doubt be surprised and delighted with this one, aged in a Sherry cask to give it nutty, toasty aromas and flavours.

Since 2006, Templeton Distillery has supported the American rye revolution as the choice of those who seek a quality rye whiskey, whether sipped neat or as an added kick to your favorite cocktail. Aged 4 years in charred new American oak barrels. Ideal for enjoying over ice or mixed in a classic whiskey cocktail.

The Champagne Rc Lemaire Cuvee Select offers a delightful nose of fresh citrus fruits, with hints of green apple and pear. On the palate, it reveals a crisp and lively acidity, complemented by flavors of lemon zest, white peach, and a touch of toasted brioche. The fine bubbles create a creamy texture, leading to a long and elegant finish with a subtle mineral undertone.

The Piper-Heidsieck Essentiel Cuvee Extra Brut offers an enticing nose with delicate aromas of white flowers, citrus zest, and fresh green apples. On the palate, it reveals a crisp and lively character, with flavors of lemon, grapefruit, and hints of toasted almonds. The wine's extra brut style showcases its bone-dry nature, while maintaining a remarkable balance and a long, refreshing finish.

Piper-Heidsieck Cuvée Sublime Demi-Sec is a delightful Champagne that offers a touch of sweetness balanced by the hallmark finesse and elegance of the Piper-Heidsieck house style. This demi-sec Champagne presents a pale golden color with a fine, persistent mousse. It delights the senses with aromas of ripe orchard fruits, such as peach and pear, along with floral notes and hints of honey and brioche. On the palate, it reveals a luscious and creamy texture, with flavors of candied citrus, apricot, and a touch of vanilla, all lifted by a refreshing acidity. The finish is long and satisfying, leaving a lingering sweetness that is perfectly balanced by the wine's acidity and complexity. Piper-Heidsieck Cuvée Sublime Demi-Sec is a wonderful choice for pairing with desserts or enjoying on its own as a luxurious aperitif, showcasing the craftsmanship and heritage of the Piper-Heidsieck Champagne house.

Nose: The nose of Bertrand Senecourt Beau Joie Special Cuvee Brut is elegant and inviting, with delicate aromas of fresh green apples, citrus zest, and hints of toasted brioche.

Taste: On the palate, this champagne showcases a lively and crisp character, with flavors of ripe pear, lemon curd, and a touch of honey. The fruitiness is well-balanced by a subtle mineral note, adding complexity and depth to the overall taste.

Palate: The palate of Beau Joie Special Cuvee Brut is refreshing and vibrant, with a fine mousse that dances on the tongue. It finishes with a lingering, zesty acidity and a touch of almond, leaving a clean and invigorating sensation.

Nose: Aromas of fresh strawberries, raspberries, and rose petals.
Taste: Bright and lively with flavors of red berries, citrus, and a hint of brioche.
Palate: Crisp and refreshing with a delicate mousse and a long, elegant finish.

Valentin Leflaive Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut is a refined and elegant Champagne, showcasing the purity and finesse of Chardonnay grapes. As an extra brut, it has a very low dosage, highlighting the crisp, natural acidity and the clean, mineral-driven character of the wine. It typically presents a delicate mousse with a pale golden hue, offering aromas of green apple, citrus, and white flowers, accompanied by subtle notes of almond and brioche from its aging on lees. On the palate, it's precise and vibrant, with a refreshing acidity and flavors of lemon, pear, and a hint of saline minerality, leading to a long, clean finish. This Champagne is a testament to the meticulous winemaking approach of Valentin Leflaive, making it a perfect choice for celebrations or pairing with delicate seafood dishes, showcasing its versatility and sophistication.

The Charles Mignon Comte de Marne Grand Cru Brut offers an enticing nose with aromas of ripe apples, citrus zest, and toasted brioche. On the palate, it is crisp and refreshing, with flavors of green apple, lemon curd, and hints of almond. The fine bubbles create a creamy texture, leading to a long and elegant finish with a touch of minerality.

The Ployez-Jacquemart Extra Brut Rosé offers an enticing nose filled with aromas of fresh strawberries, raspberries, and red currants. On the palate, it is crisp and vibrant, with a lively acidity that perfectly balances the fruitiness. The flavors of red berries continue to shine, accompanied by hints of citrus zest and a touch of minerality. The finish is long and refreshing, leaving a delightful impression of summer fruits lingering on the palate.

The Ployez-Jacquemart Passion Extra Brut offers an enticing nose filled with aromas of ripe citrus fruits, green apple, and delicate floral notes. On the palate, it reveals a vibrant acidity and a crisp, refreshing character. Flavors of lemon zest, pear, and hints of brioche dance on the tongue, leading to a long, mineral-driven finish. This Champagne showcases a perfect balance between fruitiness and elegance, making it a delightful choice for those who appreciate a bone-dry, yet expressive and complex style.

Collard-Picard Cuvee Prestige Brut is an elegant and refined Champagne, showcasing the artistry of the Collard-Picard house. This cuvée blends Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and Pinot Meunier, sourced from premier and grand cru vineyards, offering a brilliant balance of richness and finesse. It features a bright, golden hue with lively bubbles and an expressive nose of green apple, citrus fruits, and floral hints, complemented by a subtle bready undertone. On the palate, it's vibrant and fresh, with a creamy texture and flavors of ripe fruit, lemon zest, and a touch of minerality. The finish is long and crisp, leaving a delightful freshness. Perfect for special occasions or as an aperitif, this Champagne pairs beautifully with seafood, light appetizers, or on its own as a celebratory drink.

From premier cru vineyards on the Montagne de Reims, this Champagne is driven by the Pinot Noir in the blend. It is a dry style, packed with apple and citrus fruits and a youthful vivacity that might be even better after some more bottle age. Roger Voss

Golden yellow. Ripe white-fleshed fruits - pear and apple - are foremost on the nose with a straw note. Lovely body, vinosity and softness on the palate, all of which is nicely balanced by a touch of freshness. An expressive, structured dry Champagne.

Nose: Delicate aromas of red berries, strawberries, and raspberries.

Taste: Fresh and lively with flavors of wild strawberries, cherries, and hints of citrus.

Palate: Crisp and well-balanced, with a creamy texture and a long, refreshing finish.

Nose: Fresh aromas of green apple, citrus zest, and white flowers.

Taste: Crisp and lively with flavors of lemon, pear, and a hint of toasted brioche.

Palate: Well-balanced with a creamy texture, vibrant acidity, and a long, refreshing finish.

This 100% Pinot Noir was aged for a minimum of five years before disgorging. A rich, generous Blanc de Noir with a fine mousse, vibrant acidity, and pleasant aromas of quince, roasted cashews, pie crust, and vanilla cream.

Deep yellow-gold. Racy nose whose mineral character is augmented by subtle notes of fresh straw and mint. The palate is structured yet also fresh, well-integrated and persistent. The nose aromas recur and linger on the finish.

Nose: Intense aromas of red fruits, particularly cherries and raspberries, with hints of floral notes and a touch of spice.

Taste: Rich and vibrant on the palate, with flavors of ripe strawberries, blackberries, and plums. Subtle notes of vanilla and toasted oak add complexity.

Palate: Silky and smooth texture, with well-integrated tannins. The wine has a good balance of acidity, providing freshness and a long, lingering finish.

Nose: Delicate aromas of red berries, rose petals, and hints of citrus.

Taste: Vibrant flavors of strawberries, raspberries, and cherries with a touch of zesty lemon.

Palate: Lively and refreshing, with a creamy texture and a long, elegant finish.

The latest vintage from this producer based in Les Riceys in the Côte des Bars is finely textured, with a good balance between fruits and maturity. It has just hints of toastiness to go with the Champagne's soft fruits. It is ready to drink. Roger Voss

This is crisp with a steely edge. From a single vineyard, it is a blend that is dominated by Chardonnay, the wine is tight with a texture that suggests it needs to age in the bottle. There is plenty of fruit but it just needs to soften. Roger Voss

Nose: Aromas of red berries, cherries, and raspberries, with hints of floral notes and a touch of spice.

Taste: Bright and lively on the palate, with flavors of ripe strawberries, cranberries, and red currants. Subtle notes of vanilla and toasted oak add complexity.

Palate: Well-balanced with a medium body and silky tannins. The fruit flavors are complemented by a refreshing acidity, leading to a long and elegant finish.

A family business created in 1979, Champagne Gremillet is today managed by the founder's children, Anna and Jean-Christophe Gremillet. Around 50 embassies and consulates around the world choose Gremillet for their receptions. The house produces nearly 500,000 bottles of Champagne each year and is increasing in demand. This Champagne is made from 85% pinot noir and 15% chardonnay, coming from several terroirs and four to five different vintages, and 20% ​​Reserva wine. Now, completely organic, it is fruity, fresh and balanced; ideal for all occasions.

Nose: Fresh citrus, green apple, and floral aromas.
Taste: Crisp acidity, lemon zest, pear, and mineral notes.
Palate: Delicate bubbles, vibrant acidity, and a long, refreshing finish.

Nose: Delicate aromas of wild strawberries, rose petals, and hints of red currants.

Taste: Lively and refreshing with flavors of ripe raspberries, cranberries, and a touch of citrus zest.

Palate: Crisp and vibrant, with a fine mousse and a lingering finish of summer berries and floral notes.

Nose: Aromas of ripe apples, citrus zest, and brioche.

Taste: Crisp and refreshing with flavors of green apple, lemon, and hints of toasted almonds.

Palate: Lively acidity, creamy texture, and a long, elegant finish.

Nose: Fresh red berries, hints of citrus, and floral notes.

Taste: Vibrant acidity, red currants, raspberries, and a touch of brioche.

Palate: Crisp and lively, with a creamy texture, fine bubbles, and a long, mineral-driven finish.

Nose: Fresh citrus, green apple, and pear aromas with hints of white flowers and brioche.

Taste: Crisp and lively on the palate with flavors of lemon zest, ripe apple, and a touch of honey.

Palate: Well-balanced acidity, creamy texture, and a long, elegant finish.

Nose: Fresh citrus, green apple, and floral aromas.

Taste: Crisp and lively with notes of lemon zest, pear, and white flowers.

Palate: Dry and refreshing, with a delicate mousse and a long, mineral finish.

Nose: Fresh red fruits, hints of citrus, and floral aromas.
Taste: Crisp and lively with notes of raspberry, strawberry, and lemon zest.
Palate: Vibrant acidity, delicate bubbles, and a long, mineral finish.

This soft wine shows a relatively high dosage, giving a ripe strawberry-fruit character. The acidity and fruit are gentle, hinting at a tannic edge from red wine in the blend.