As one of the world’s largest producers of Scotch whisky, Diageo holds an unrivalled array of whiskies in its portfolio. One of the most notable labels is none other than Johnnie Walker, the best-selling whisky brand globally, with 22.7 million 9-litre cases sold in 2022. Creating whisky that caters to mainstream taste is not Diageo’s only focus; the British conglomerate also excels at crafting niche creations.
One such example is the Sprited Xchange, which explores and celebrates the flavours that surround us each day and inspire our curiosity to create, as its Master Blender, Dr. Stuart Morrison, puts it. Returning for its second instalment, the Diageo Spirited Xchange Second Edition is nothing short of remarkable, delivering flavours that upend imagination and defy expectations.
Under the guidance of Morrison, the Spirited Xchange Second Edition offers us a peek into the unfettered creativity of Diageo, where eight rare and unconventional single malts are unveiled.
First up is the Midnight Dusk by Mortlach. Finished in saccharine Ramandolo white and earthy Sangiovese red wine casks, this bold expression stands out with its complexity of layered crisp fruit, caramelised miso and a hint of cured prosciutto notes, perfect for those with a bold palate.
Taking us into the oceanic wilderness, the Spirited Xchange’s gastronomical journey continues with an eight-year-old Talisker Tidal Churn Single Malt Whisky. Like its name suggests, the expression finished with stone-spun casks offers a tidal wave of fruity and vanilla notes beneath its signature maritime smoke.
Next up is The Singleton Autumn Walk. Calling up an autumnal Pyrenees dipped in rusty riot of gold and yellow, the rich amber expression brings together a combination of casks — ex-bourbon, rejuvenated ex-wine, and refill casks, delivering sweet, spicy and slightly dry notes evocative of the cosy autumnal charm.
Also exuding comforting autumnal vibes is Lagavulin’s Fireside Tales. Like a warm fireside chat over a campfire, the Single Malt whisky matured in first-fill ex-Bourbon and refill casks is a smouldering expression gently tempered with the sweetness of toffee, vanilla and coconut.
For connoisseurs with a penchant for aged whiskies, there is Benrinnes’ Grand Crescendo. Having matured for 21 years, the Benrinnes’ Grand Crescendo is the oldest expression in the collection, boasting a striking symphony of flavours laden with lingering red fruits and residual spice.
For Speyside fans, the Roseisle Origami Kite 2 is the go-to. The second expression from the Roseisle distillery is matured in first-fill ex-Bourbon and refill casks, imbuing it with the smooth and fruity characteristics for which the Speyside whiskies are renowned.
One of the biggest draws in this collection is the Ambrosial Feast by Caol Ila. A departure from the classic Islay style, predominantly with peated malt, this expression reimagines the Islay classic with an unpeated expression, seamlessly intertwining creamy, nutty nuances with a burst of green apple.
Topping off the collection is the Coastal Orchard by Oban. The vibrant expression, finished in Oloroso-seasoned American oak casks and harmoniously blended with refill casks, offers a striking contrast of maritime freshness and orchard fruitiness, found only in this Oban specialty.
This article was first seen on MENS-FOLIO MY.
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