Barrel & Batch 12 Days of Christmas Premium Whisky Advent Calendar

Welcome to a world of Christmas exploration: Here is your tasting guide for our premium, exclusive Barrel & Batch advent calendar. Featuring 12 x 30ml wax-sealed premium drams, with multiple barrel finishes and patient aging for up to 27 years, it's one for the true whisky fan, whether you're starting on your whisky journey or you're an expert! Enjoy from the Barrel & Batch team.

These tasting notes were prepared for you by our resident whisky expert and spirits buyer, Ray Daniel, Simon McGoram, Head of Whisky at Atom Brands & Sam Simmons, Regional Sales Manager of Atom Brands.

Wormtub 10 Year Batch 04 Single Malt Scotch Whisky 700ml-Spirits-Wormtub-[afterpay_alcohol_delivery]-[buy_spirits_online]-[buy_wine_online]-Barrel & Batch

Wormtub 10 Year Old (Batch 04)

  • Age Statement: 10-Year-Old (advent calendar exclusive features a single cask variant)
  • Region: Speyside, Scotland
  • Cask Type: Predominantly sherry casks, contributing to a rich and fruit-forward profile.
  • Alcohol Strength: Cask Strength
  • Production Style: Traditional worm tub condensation method, which preserves the spirit's rich, meaty, and nutty characteristics by reducing copper contact during distillation.
  • Special Features: Natural colour, unrepeatable single cask expression for advent calendar exclusivity.

Tasting Notes

  • Nose: Rich aromas of cherry compote and spiced fruitcake dominate, accompanied by warm hints of nuttiness and subtle oak. A faint whiff of dried fruits, reminiscent of figs and dates, rounds out the aromatic experience.
  • Palate: Full-bodied and intense, the palate bursts with juicy red cherries, dark chocolate, and toasted almonds. Layers of warm baking spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove—enhance the complexity, while a subtle meaty undertone provides depth. Sherry sweetness and a creamy texture balance the bold flavours.
  • Finish: Long and lingering with notes of spiced orange peel, roasted nuts, and a touch of salted caramel. The sherry influence continues to shine, leaving a rich and satisfying aftertaste.

Distillery Notes
The "Worm Tub" whisky celebrates the heritage of worm tub condensers, a traditional and increasingly rare distillation technique. This method imparts a distinct texture and character to the spirit, emphasizing meaty and nutty elements while preserving the boldness of the distillery's style.

Exclusive Highlight for Advent Calendar Enthusiasts:The advent calendar version of "Worm Tub" features a unique single cask expression, offering a more refined and elegant take on the core 10-year-old. Expect amplified fruit notes and nuanced complexity, making this a once-in-a-lifetime dram to savour.

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Green Isle Blended Scotch Whisky 700ml-Spirits-Green Isle-[afterpay_alcohol_delivery]-[buy_spirits_online]-[buy_wine_online]-Barrel & Batch

Green Isle - (From the makers of) The Character of Islay Whisky Company

  • Type: Blended Scotch Whisky
  • Region: Scotland (Islay-inspired with a west coast profile)
  • Alcohol Strength: 40% ABV
  • Style: Everyday smoky whisky with a classic, old-school blend character
  • Inspiration: Inspired by the "golden age" of blending, emulating classic blends like White Horse, with a nod to Islay’s smoky and maritime character
  • Special Features:
  • Combines old and young grain whiskies
  • Includes Islay whisky for a balanced peat influence
  • Warm tub distillate adds richness and depth
  • Named after Neil Gunn’s novel Green Isle of the Great Deep, evoking the mystical and transformative experience of discovering Islay

Tasting Notes:

  • Nose: Subtle peat smoke mingles with hints of damp earth, sea air, and a touch of rubber. Light maritime notes blend seamlessly with sweet grain and a faint nuttiness
  • Palate: Soft and approachable, with gentle waves of smoke and a light peat influence. Flavors of toasted grain, vanilla, and honey are complemented by hints of citrus zest and light oak. The texture is smooth and well-rounded, with a savory, slightly salty undertone reminiscent of Islay’s coastal environment
  • Finish: Medium-length with lingering notes of light smoke, sweet malt, and a touch of spice. Hints of wet stone and brine evoke the essence of Islay’s rugged coastlines

Distillery Notes:
Green Isle is crafted to be a gateway whisky, ideal for those new to peated Scotch or seeking an everyday smoky dram. While light and approachable, it retains the character and complexity reminiscent of classic Islay blends, offering a nostalgic nod to the old-school whisky traditions.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Best enjoyed in a rocks glass to emphasize its casual, everyday appeal.
  • Perfect for a few fingers neat, over ice, or paired with holiday desserts like Christmas pudding.
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Seaweed & Aeons & Digging & Fire & Sauternes Cask 12 Year Old Whisky 700ml

Seaweed & Aeons & Digging & Fire – Sauternes Cask

  • Type: Single Cask Islay Whisky
  • Region: Islay, Scotland
  • Cask Type: Finished in Sauternes wine casks for 11 months
  • Alcohol Strength: Cask Strength (mid to low 50s ABV range)
  • Style: Peated whisky with a sweet and fruity finish from the Sauternes cask influence.
  • Special Features:
  • Part of the experimental Seaweed & Aeons & Digging & Fire range, known for pushing boundaries with unique cask finishes.
  • Bottled from a single cask, making this an exclusive and limited release.
  • The Sauternes cask finish adds a layer of honeyed sweetness and acidity, balancing the Islay peat smoke.

Tasting Notes:

  • Nose: Bold aromas of smoky peat and earthy minerality, softened by hints of apricot, honey, and candied citrus peel. A subtle flinty character intertwines with light maritime notes and toasted oak.
  • Palate: The whisky opens with a burst of rich, peaty smoke, followed by luscious flavors of dried apricots, honeycomb, and golden raisins. Layers of caramelized sugar, citrus zest, and a touch of ginger spice add complexity. The signature Islay character of mineral flint and charcoal emerges mid-palate, balanced by the sweetness of the Sauternes cask.
  • Finish: Long and satisfying, with lingering notes of smoky barbecue, vanilla custard, and a touch of salted caramel. A whisper of toasted oak and dried fruit rounds out the experience.

Distillery Notes:
This release celebrates the interplay of peat and sweetness, showcasing how Sauternes cask finishing can enhance Islay whisky's robust character. The whisky is rich and full-bodied, with enough complexity to please seasoned drinkers while remaining approachable for those new to cask-strength peated whiskies.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Best enjoyed neat for the full cask-strength experience, though a few drops of water can enhance the flinty, mineral notes and soften the sweetness.
  • Pairs beautifully with holiday desserts like fruitcake or crème brûlée, making it a perfect festive dram.
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That Boutique-Y Whisky Company Arran 27 Year Batch 11 Single Malt Scotch Whisky 500ml-Spirits-That Boutique-Y Whisky Company-[afterpay_alcohol_delivery]-[buy_spirits_online]-[buy_wine_online]-Barrel & Batch

That Boutique-Y Whisky Company Arran 27 Year Batch 11 Single Malt Scotch Whisky 500ml

Product Information:

  • Name: End of the World Series – 27-Year-Old Arran
  • Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky
  • Region: Island (Arran), Scotland
  • Age Statement: 27 Years
  • Alcohol Strength: Natural cask strength, slightly under 50% ABV
  • Series: End of the World Series by That Boutique-y Whisky Company
  • Special Features:
  • Bottled independently, potentially one of the last releases to feature the "Arran" name due to licensing and the distillery's expansion to a second site.
  • Aged entirely in a single cask and nurtured for decades to achieve a natural reduction in ABV, emphasizing elegance and complexity.

Tasting Notes:

  • Nose:
    Warm aromas of honey-drizzled croissants, freshly baked pastries, and creamy vanilla custard. Subtle notes of orchard fruits—ripe pears and red apples—combine with a hint of toasted almonds and gentle oak spice.
  • Palate:
    Silky and luxurious, the palate delivers layers of creamy butterscotch, dried apricots, and orange zest. A delicate interplay of baking spices—cinnamon and nutmeg—adds depth, while a whisper of coastal salinity and mineral flint provides balance. The well-integrated oak imparts soft tannins and a touch of toasted hazelnut.
  • Finish:
    Long and graceful, with lingering notes of honey, light malt, and a faint hint of white chocolate. The finish is both sweet and slightly savory, showcasing the whisky’s refined maturity.

Distillery Notes:
This 27-year-old Arran single malt captures the essence of patient maturation. Its naturally reduced ABV highlights the distillery’s characteristic creamy texture and fruity notes while adding layers of complexity achieved only with time. The whisky is a testament to the craftsmanship of independent bottling and offers a rare glimpse into the older expressions from this relatively young distillery.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Best enjoyed neat to appreciate its delicate balance of flavors and aromas.
  • A few drops of water can enhance the fruity and pastry-like notes for a richer tasting experience.
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27-Year-Old Glenburgie – That Boutique-y Whisky Company

Product Information:

  • Name: 27-Year-Old Glenburgie – End of the World Series
  • Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky
  • Region: Speyside, Scotland
  • Age Statement: 27 Years
  • Alcohol Strength: 54.3% ABV (Natural Cask Strength)
  • Cask Type: Refill Hogshead
  • Series: That Boutique-y Whisky Company – End of the World Series
  • Special Features:
  • Single cask release.
  • Quintessentially distillate-forward, showcasing Glenburgie’s character with minimal wood influence.
  • Part of a collectible series with whimsical labels; this release features the "Giant’s Hat" story from Glenburgie lore.

Tasting Notes:

  • Nose:
    Elegant and floral with notes of honeysuckle, peach blossoms, and fresh-cut grass. A subtle nuttiness complements hints of vanilla and light malt.
  • Palate:
    Silky and refined, the palate delivers layers of honeyed peach, apricot, and a whisper of tropical fruit. Gentle almond and hazelnut flavors add depth, while grassy and mineral undertones lend balance. The restrained oak influence enhances the distillery character, emphasizing delicate floral and fruity notes.
  • Finish:
    Long and graceful, with lingering flavors of soft malt, floral honey, and a touch of lemon zest. The light and airy quality leaves a refreshing impression.

Distillery Notes:
This Glenburgie release embodies the beauty of time and patience in whisky maturation. Its delicate, distillate-driven profile showcases the distillery’s hallmark floral and fruity characteristics. The lack of heavy cask influence highlights the elegance of the spirit, making it a rare gem for connoisseurs who value unadulterated distillery character.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Best enjoyed neat to fully appreciate its nuanced flavors and aromas.
  • A few drops of water can open up the lighter floral notes and bring forward the honeyed sweetness.
The Darkness Dailuaine 12 Year Palo Cortado Single Malt Scotch Whisky 500ml-Spirits-Darkness-[afterpay_alcohol_delivery]-[buy_spirits_online]-[buy_wine_online]-Barrel & Batch

The Darkness Dailuaine 12 Year Palo Cortado Single Malt Scotch Whisky 500ml

Product Information:

  • Name: Darkness – Dailuaine Palo Cortado Finish
  • Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky
  • Region: Speyside, Scotland
  • Age Statement: 12 Years
  • Cask Type: Refill hogshead with a finish in Palo Cortado sherry octave casks
  • Alcohol Strength: Bottled at cask strength
  • Series: Darkness by That Boutique-y Whisky Company
  • Special Features:
  • Finished in Palo Cortado casks, known for their unique balance of sweetness, nuttiness, and savory flavors.
  • Matured in small octave casks, enhancing flavor concentration and texture.
  • Dailuaine’s oily, nutty distillate profile pairs perfectly with the umami-rich sherry finish.

Tasting Notes:

  • Nose:
    Rich and inviting with aromas of roasted nuts, dried figs, and warm toffee. Subtle hints of yeast, baking spices, and earthy mushrooms reflect the Palo Cortado cask influence.
  • Palate:
    Thick and chewy with a velvety texture. Flavors of dark chocolate, caramelized orange, and toasted hazelnuts dominate, while savory umami notes of soy and aged cheese add depth. A hint of malt sweetness lingers beneath layers of sherry richness.
  • Finish:
    Long and satisfying, with lingering flavors of candied nuts, leather, and a touch of sea salt. The savory and sweet interplay leaves a complex and lasting impression.

Distillery Notes:
Dailuaine is often regarded as a "workhorse" distillery for blends but shines as a single malt in this Darkness expression. Its robust distillate provides a perfect canvas for sherry finishes, and the Palo Cortado cask elevates it with a sophisticated balance of nutty, savory, and sweet characteristics.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Best enjoyed neat to savor the full complexity of the Palo Cortado finish.
  • A few drops of water can open up the umami notes and soften the savory edges.

Special Mention: This whisky is part of the Darkness series, which focuses on exploring the transformation of single malts through sherry cask maturation. The Palo Cortado cask finish is particularly rare and adds an intriguing twist to Dailuaine’s classic Speyside profile.

Burnt Bridges – A Blended World Whisky

Product Information:

  • Type: Blended World Whisky
  • Regions:
  • Tennessee (11-Year-Old Bourbon)
  • Islay, Scotland (10-Year-Old Sherry-Cask-Finished Single Malt)
  • Age Statement: 10 Years (youngest whisky in the blend)
  • Alcohol Strength: Bottled at cask strength
  • Series: Burnt Ends Series
  • Special Features:
  • A unique blend of American bourbon and sherry-finished peated Islay whisky, designed to mimic the experience of a smoky barbecue.
  • Limited batch release with just 966 bottles produced in the first batch.
  • Innovative packaging with a hipster barbecue sauce-inspired design.

Tasting Notes:

  • Nose:
    Sweet and smoky with notes of maple syrup, caramelized bacon, and cola. Hints of smoked paprika, charred oak, and subtle herbal undertones from the rye and Islay whisky.
  • Palate:
    Bold and savory with flavors of spiced barbecue rub, brown sugar, and vanilla. The bourbon’s sweetness complements the Islay whisky’s peat smoke, while the sherry finish adds layers of dried fruit and a touch of nuttiness. A hint of black pepper and smoked paprika lingers mid-palate, adding complexity.
  • Finish:
    Long and warming with a balance of sweet cola, tangy citrus, and gentle smoke. The lingering flavors of charred wood and savory spice evoke the essence of barbecue pits and slow-cooked meats.

Distillery Notes:
Burnt Bridges is a bold and playful exploration of world whisky blending. By combining American bourbon with peated Islay single malt, this whisky captures the spirit of barbecue culture—rich, smoky, and deeply satisfying. The result is a whisky that shouldn’t work but does, offering an inventive, full-flavored experience.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Best enjoyed neat to savor its bold, smoky complexity.
  • Pair with barbecue favorites like pork belly, brisket, or smoked ribs for a perfect match.
  • A drop of water can enhance the sherry sweetness and soften the smoke for a smoother sip.

Special Mention:Burnt Bridges embraces its unorthodox blend with a playful nod to barbecue traditions and hipster design. It’s a standout whisky for those who enjoy something outside the box and pairs beautifully with bold, fatty dishes.

The Darkness Linkwood 14 Year Oloroso Single Malt Scotch Whisky 500ml-Spirits-Darkness-[afterpay_alcohol_delivery]-[buy_spirits_online]-[buy_wine_online]-Barrel & Batch

The Darkness Linkwood 14 Year Oloroso Single Malt Scotch Whisky 500ml

Product Information:

  • Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky
  • Distillery: Linkwood (Speyside)
  • Age Statement: 14 Years
  • Cask Details: Finished in two sherry octave casks (Palo Cortado), approximately one-eighth the size of traditional sherry butts, enhancing flavor and color intensity.
  • Alcohol Strength: 56.06% ABV (Cask Strength)
  • Series: Darkness
  • Limited Bottling: Only 70 liters of pure alcohol were extracted from the barrels.

Tasting Notes:

  • Nose:
    Bright and sherried with notes of red currant jelly, malt loaf, and hints of dried fruits like sultanas and figs. A subtle nuttiness emerges, accompanied by faint woody spices and a delicate floral undertone.
  • Palate:
    Chewy and rich with a luxurious mouthfeel. Fruity layers of cranberry, red currants, and jammy sweetness are balanced by earthy spices and a touch of umami from the Palo Cortado sherry casks. The light nuttiness and malty backbone enhance the complexity, while the sherry influence is pronounced but not overpowering.
  • Finish:
    Long and warming with lingering notes of nutmeg, dried apricots, and a faint touch of oak. The fruity sweetness fades into gentle spices, leaving a refined and balanced impression.

Distillery Notes:
Linkwood is renowned for its delicate and fruity character, making it a favorite among whisky connoisseurs and independent bottlers. This expression from the Darkness series highlights the interplay between Linkwood’s inherent light, fruity profile and the intense influence of Palo Cortado sherry octaves. The result is a beautifully integrated whisky that celebrates both the distillery character and the richness of the finishing casks.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Enjoy neat to fully appreciate the sherry richness and fruity complexity.
  • Add a drop of water to soften the high ABV and reveal additional layers of flavor.
  • Pair with holiday dishes like roasted turkey with cranberry sauce or aged cheeses for a festive experience.

Special Mention:Darkness Linkwood 14-Year-Old is a standout dram for its sherry-forward profile balanced by the distillery’s light, fruity nature. Its limited availability and unique cask influence make it a highly sought-after bottle, especially among collectors and fans of sherry-finished whiskies.

The Darkness Strathisla 15 Year Pedro Ximenez Single Malt Scotch Whisky 500ml-Spirits-Darkness-[afterpay_alcohol_delivery]-[buy_spirits_online]-[buy_wine_online]-Barrel & Batch

The Darkness Strathisla 15 Year Pedro Ximenez Single Malt Scotch Whisky 500ml

Product Information:

  • Name: Darkness Strathisla Pedro Ximénez (PX) Octave Finish
  • Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky
  • Distillery: Strathisla (Speyside)
  • Age Statement: Not explicitly stated, but finished in Pedro Ximénez sherry octaves for an intensified flavor profile.
  • Cask Details: PX sherry octave, smaller barrels to increase surface area contact, enhancing the sherry influence.
  • Series: Darkness
  • Alcohol Strength: Cask Strength (specific ABV not mentioned in transcript).
  • Limited Bottling: Small parcel; limited availability.

Tasting Notes:

  • Nose:
    Bursting with rich Christmas aromas of candied orange peel, clove, nutmeg, and dark fruits like figs and dates. Hints of warm spices, caramel, and a slight nuttiness round out the inviting bouquet.
  • Palate:
    A luscious, full-bodied mouthfeel. Initial waves of PX sweetness deliver notes of raisins, molasses, and toffee. This is followed by layers of rich spices, candied citrus, and subtle oak tannins. The small octave cask adds concentrated depth, creating a balance between sweetness and warming spice.
  • Finish:
    Long, warming, and luxurious. Lingering flavors of Christmas pudding, spiced oranges, and a touch of dark chocolate leave a festive and comforting aftertaste.

Distillery Notes:
Strathisla, one of Scotland's most picturesque distilleries, is known for producing rich, full-bodied malts. As a cornerstone of Chivas Regal blends, its profile pairs exceptionally well with sherry cask finishes. The addition of PX octave casks enhances its natural richness, creating a dram that embodies holiday indulgence.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Neat: Ideal for savoring the depth and complexity of the PX influence.
  • With Water: A few drops can open up more subtle citrus and spice notes.
  • Pairing: Perfect with Christmas desserts like mince pies, fruitcake, or dark chocolate truffles.

Special Mention: This limited-edition expression showcases the versatility of Strathisla's rich spirit, elevated by the intense sweetness and spice of Pedro Ximénez sherry. It’s a must-try for fans of festive, sherried whiskies and those looking for the perfect holiday dram.

That Boutique-Y Whisky Company 8 Year Old Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky 700ml-Spirits-That Boutique-Y Whisky Company-[afterpay_alcohol_delivery]-[buy_spirits_online]-[buy_wine_online]-Barrel & Batch

That Boutique-Y Whisky Company 8 Year Old Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky 700ml

Product Information:

  • Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky
  • Region: Islay
  • Age Statement: 8 Years
  • Alcohol Strength: 45.8% ABV (bottled at the traditional UK 80 proof)
  • Cask Composition:
  • 25% sherry maturation
  • 75% refill hogsheads (potential inclusion of refill bourbon casks)
  • Series: Boutique-y Core Range
  • Volume: 700ml
  • Non-Chill Filtered & Natural Color: Yes

Tasting Notes:

  • Nose:
    Classic Islay smoke rises initially, mingled with a fresh fruitiness that suggests green apples and lemon zest. Subtle maritime brininess and hints of tarry ropes evoke the sea breeze. A gentle sherry influence adds depth with dried fruits and nutty undertones.
  • Palate:
    Bright and vibrant, with an initial burst of smoky phenolics and fresh citrus. The palate transitions into creamy vanilla, subtle oak, and a touch of spice from the sherry casks. Notes of malted barley, light toffee, and just a whisper of medicinal peat round out the flavors.
  • Finish:
    Medium length with lingering smoke, a faint touch of ash, and a soft sweetness from the sherry casks. The freshness persists, leaving a clean and approachable aftertaste.

Distillery Notes:
This Islay single malt embodies the youthful vigor of the region’s peated style, balanced by a subtle sherry cask influence. As part of Boutique-y Whisky’s Core Range, it’s designed to be both approachable for new peat lovers and exciting for seasoned Islay fans.

Why It’s Special for an Advent Calendar:

  • Offers a gateway to peat for those new to Islay, thanks to its approachable and well-balanced profile.
  • Highlights Boutique-y’s commitment to offering quality, age-stated whiskies at a competitive price point.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Neat: Enjoy the vibrant smokiness and complexity.
  • With Water: A few drops can amplify the fruity and creamy elements, softening the peat.

Pairing: Excellent with smoked salmon, aged cheeses, or dark chocolate.