Lagavulin Sweet Peat marks one of the most intriguing Islay releases in years. A new 11-year-old core expression from the legendary distillery, it promises to balance signature Lagavulin smoke with a sweeter, bourbon-cask influence. As anticipation builds, this could be the whisky that reshapes how drinkers experience peat — and I can’t wait to try it when it finally hits the shelves.
This Monkey Shoulder review looks at why this blended malt has become one of the most recognisable modern Scotch whiskies. Smooth, sweet, and deliberately approachable, Monkey Shoulder is designed for versatility rather than complexity — working just as comfortably neat as it does in cocktails. A reliable Speyside-style whisky that knows exactly who it’s for and why it exists.
The opening of Luss Distillery marks a quiet but important shift for whisky lovers. While the site will primarily produce gin, it also houses the long-awaited Loch Lomond Visitor Centre, finally giving fans a place to explore one of Scotland’s most technically fascinating whisky producers — something that, until now, was only possible if you had an insider connection.
Why does whisky price vary so dramatically from bottle to bottle?
The cost of a whisky isn’t decided at bottling — it’s shaped years earlier by choices around ageing, cask sourcing, production scale, climate, and global demand. From the rising cost of quality oak to evaporation losses and export logistics, whisky price reflects far more than what’s in the glass. Understanding those factors helps you look past the label and decide where real value lies.
Springbank 100 Proof is a bold, comfort-driven Campbeltown single malt bottled at traditional British proof. Thick with caramel, malted barley, savoury warmth, and gentle coastal notes, this high-strength whisky delivers weight and texture rather than finesse. A hearty, food-like dram that showcases Springbank’s character with the volume turned up.
Macallan Diamonds Are Forever Bond Edition approached with passion and scepticism. A nostalgic James Bond collaboration, red wine casks, higher ABV — but is €695 justified?
From sherry-seasoned oak and small copper stills to global luxury status and sky-high prices, The Macallan is one of the most influential—and debated—distilleries in Scotch whisky. This in-depth Dram1 distillery spotlight explores Macallan’s history, house style, master distillers, pop culture presence, and the growing tension between prestige, collectability, and value, while also highlighting excellent alternatives for sherry-led whisky lovers.
China has announced it will halve import tariffs on Scotch whisky from 10% to 5%, a move that could reshape pricing, availability, and long-term growth in one of the world’s most important premium spirits markets. We break down what the tariff cut really means for Scotch producers, drinkers, and the global whisky landscape.
Jim Beam halts production at its main Kentucky distillery for 2026, marking a rare pause for one of bourbon’s most historic brands. The decision reflects shifting demand, growing inventories, and a changing global whiskey market.
David Vitale has reclaimed full ownership of Starward, returning Australia’s most influential modern whisky distillery to founder hands after a decade with Diageo. It’s a move that puts flavour, identity, and long-term whisky making firmly back at the centre—and signals a defining moment for Australian whisky.
