The Classic Malts Collection boasts an enviable lineup of single
malts from all over Scotland, so when the company debuted 11 new limited
expressions this week, we took notice. After a lot of sipping—and
a full day of recovery—we’ve managed to single out the best of the
best. (Fair warning: Three are cask-strength—hence the recovery
time.)
One of our all-time favorite distilleries, Lagavulin, is launching a
bold new 12-year, four years younger than its flagship
quaff. We like the 16-year plenty, but the new 12 is delicious,
too—smoky, oily, and, despite its younger age, very complex. From
Caol Ila, a lesser-known Islay distillery, comes an uncharacteristic new
10-year. It’s distilled without peat, and what remains is buttery and
grassy, with undercurrents of salty caramel. The Eastern Highlands’ tiny
Royal Lochnagar distillery finally reaches American soil with its lovely
Selected Reserve. Aged in sherry and bourbon casks and bottled at a
refined 43 percent, Lochnagar is rich, fruity, and brambly, an excellent
way to finish a meal. Finally, an incredibly rare 30-year from Port
Ellen, Islay’s renowned “ghost” distillery, is worth the hefty
investment. Port Ellen closed its doors in 1983; it’s selling its way
through the remaining stock, but when the stuff’s gone, it’s gone. The
30-year—with notes of smoke, nuts, and bacon—is too good to
miss. It’s special-occasion scotch, one to break out at the wedding or
the maternity ward. Or today at 4:59, if you like. It’s your
wallet.
Lagavulin 12-Year-Old, $75; Caol Ila unpeated 10-Year-Old, $60;
Royal Lochnagar Selected Reserve, $210; Port Ellen 30-Year-Old, $370;
for more information, visit malts.com
