Collection Gift Guide: A Classic Setup

Robert Ross

12/02/2003

The Classic Casks
When we want to sample something of utmost rarity in the spirit world, we usually cast a glance at the offerings of our friends at the Scotch Malt Whisky Society of America (www.smwsa.com). Members of the SMWSA are tempted—via the Society’s regular newsletters—with a vast selection of single-cask bottlings of Scotland’s most delicious cultural artifact.

So with an eye toward introducing nonmembers to the pleasures of exceptional whiskey, I asked the SMWSA’s president, Alan Shayne, for a recommendation outside the purview of the Society. Without hesitation, he proffered three words: the Classic Cask. This single-batch selection features three distinct whiskeys, each one representing the best of their particular breed. (Click image to enlarge)

Chief among them is the 35 Year Old Rare Scotch Whisky (a very special blend of over 30 single malts, all Oloroso Sherry Cask aged; about $275). Rich, sweet, and remarkably smooth, this is, quite simply, a new favorite for this Scotch lover. Doubtless, some non-Scotch types will surely see the error of their ways and—once converted—embrace a bottle of their very own.

But even Scotch this special may not satisfy the urges of strict rye and bourbon lovers. Such souls are not left wanting—they can imbibe a 21 Year Old Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey (about $70) or an 18 Year Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey (about $65).

Quantities of all three spirits are exceedingly limited, with never more than 800 bottles to a batch. Each bottle is hand numbered, its label indicating the total production output as well as distillation and bottling dates. Classic indeed.

Available at fine retailers. For further information, contact
Spirit Imports Inc.
954.748.9009

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