This week includes several happenings on the whisk(e)y front, including new American whiskey, new Canadian whisky and a couple of Scotches coming stateside.
Say Hello to Crown Royal XO
The just-launched Crown Royal XO is a unique blend containing more than 50 of Crown Royal’s finest whiskies. It’s finished in cognac casks and, according to the brand, is an “amber/topaz whisky deliciously balanced with hints of vanilla, spice and rich dried fruit, closing with an impeccably smooth finish.” It’s now hitting store shelves nationwide, and a 750ml bottle carries a suggested retail price of $49.99. [wire]
Someone Spent $628,000 on Scotch
In a recent Sotheby’s auction in Hong Kong, a six liter “Imperiale” version of Macallan M sold for a cool $628,000, setting a world record as the most expensive whisky ever sold at auction. One of the world’s rarer whiskies, the Macallan M is a sherry-oaked expression that’s packaged in a time-intensive Lalique crystal decanter. The decanter alone accounts for much of the price. Frankly, we’d be happy to try the stuff from a styrofoam cup, if the opportunity presented itself. And somehow, it’s still not the most expensive whiskey in the world, which goes to the diamond-encrusted Isabella’s Islay.
Introducing Tincup American Whiskey
Created by Jess Graber, founder of Stranahan’s Colorado Whiskey, Tincup American Whiskey is made from a blend of corn, rye and malt. It’s aged in new charred American white oak barrels, cut with Rocky Mountain water and bottled at 84 proof. The brand’s tasting notes include aromas of citrus, black pepper and ginger snaps, with flavors of rye spice, cinnamon and caramel. Look for Tincup American Whiskey in select markets at a suggested retail price of $27.99.
A Couple New GlenDronach Whiskies Come Stateside
Anchor Distilling Company and The GlenDronach Distillery just launched two new expressions in the US market: The GlenDronach 15 Year Old Tawny Port Wood Finish (46% ABV / $79.99) and The GlenDronach Cask Strength Batch 2 (50-60% ABV / $149.99). The former is matured in European oak before moving to Tawny Port barrels, while the latter is matured in a combination of Pedro Ximenez and Oloroso sherry casks. [wire]
