90-95 Wine Enthusiast

Sweet, mild, clean fragrance of lemon, juniper and licorice. This is a complex gin; more flavors can be detected with each sip: cinnamon spice, astringent pine needles, a touch of lime zest and, finally, a big licorice finish comes singing through. Slightly oily feel. Great for a gimlet or martini with a lemon twist.

93 Wine Enthusiast

There's no age statement on the label; that's intentional. The lore of this liquid is that it includes a small amount of the last bourbon ever produced at the iconic Stitzel-Weller distillery, which closed in 1992. (Diageo re-opened it in 2014.) This blend of straight bourbons offers vanilla on nose and palate, leading into almond and a hint of dried apricot. The finish is lively and relatively dry, with grapefruit peel, leather and chamomile tea. Overall, it's a light-handed and pleasing take, regardless of how much (or little) old/rare distillate is actually in the glass. — Kara Newman

91 The Whisky Advocate

Ripe red berries on the nose make for a vibrant and inviting introduction. Stay awhile and a freshly poured glass of cherry cola joins the mix. Lovely spice on the lush palate, and more cherries, this time baked into a tart topped with vanilla ice cream. The medium-length finish yields yet another iteration of cherries: dark chocolate-covered Bing cherries, as well as dark chocolate raspberry squares.

94 Wine Enthusiast

A wheated bourbon aged five years, this bourbon has a pleasing cookie dough scent. The palate opens drying and spicy, showing off lots of cayenne and cinnamon fireworks, before fading into smooth vanilla. Hints of toasted almond and mocha mark the lip-smacking finish. — Kara Newman

92 The Whisky Advocate

Number 11 Whiskey of 2024.... This year’s Ardbeg Day release, using whiskies aged 9-13 years, 35% matured in bourbon barrels and the rest in port casks. A peat blast on the nose, softened by tart and sweet notes of lemon. The palate is peated and spicy, with Golden Delicious apples, honey, cracked pepper, charcoal, candle wax, and light soapiness. The finish is long, with apple, smoke, and honey, ending with subtle pepper spice. Spectacular is aptly named.

88 Malt Advocate

The subtle sherry adds an additional level of complexity when compared to the standard 10 year old, taking Tomintoul to a new level. Rich and creamy, with well-balanced notes of toffee, vanilla fudge, toasted nuts, and elegant fruit. A surprisingly delicious whisky for 12 years old.

89 The Whisky Advocate

Diageo has introduced this new no age statement variant of Talisker single malt. The name reflects the distiller’s aspiration to enhance the maritime notes in this expression. Refill and rejuvenated casks have both contributed to its maturation. The nose is youthful but rounded, with brine, burning wood embers, vanilla, and honey. Sweet and spicy on the palate, with cranberries and black currants, while peat smoke is always present, plus black pepper. The finish lingers, with walnuts and fruity peat.

94 Tastings.com (Beverage Testing Institute)

Gold color. Aromas and flavors of white grape, fruit infused salted caramel, dates, and caramel and cinnamon brioche with a full body and a long finish manifesting overtones of cooked fruit wrapped in pastry dough, candied pecans, roasted plantains, and maple cookies. Tasting of brioche, brown sugar, and bananas, this Irish Single Pot Still Whiskey leaves you wanting more and thinking you can convert your bourbon drinking friends.