Whether you’re restocking your drinks cabinet for summer, picking out a gift, or simply in the mood for something new, a thoughtfully chosen bottle of whisky never goes amiss. From smoky Speyside expressions to bold English single malts, there’s something here for every palate — peat lovers, sherry fans, and citrus seekers alike.
Here are four distinctive bottles we’ve recently tried, offering something a little different, each one rich in character and well worth a place on your shelf.
Cotswolds Signature Single Malt Whisky
£46
Launched in 2017, Cotswolds single malt whisky is the first whisky ever to have been distilled in the Cotswolds. Keeping the initial carbon footprint as small as possible, the spirit has been crafted using locally grown barley and water from the village water supply, which is then filtered, softened and demineralised before being used in the distillation process.
The spirit is matured in shaved, toasted and re-charred American oak ex-red wine casks and first-fill ex-Bourbon barrels. The result is a whisky bursting with fruit and spice notes. With malt and notes of citrus on the nose initially, sweet almonds are there, too.
Once on the palate, this creamy, well-rounded liquid has a citrus sweetness, with treacle notes coming through. It has a slight pepper kick on the tongue, but this mellows away, leading to a long finish of vanilla and orange, with a hint of butterscotch. It’s well-balanced and flavourful, and will invite you in for just another little nip.
The Lakes Signature
£85
The Lakes Signature whisky is the first permanent style of sherry-led whisky released by the brand. It is the result of a decade of experience gained with the production of seven expressions released in the Whisky-maker’s Reserve series.
The Lakes, based in the Lake District, employs the renowned technique of élevage in its whisky-making process. The method involves making distinct changes, such as altering the climate, adjusting the cask location, transferring the liquid between casks, and combining liquid from different casks during the maturation process to create specific characteristics. It is traditionally used in the making of fine wines and cognac. It is rarely utilised in whisky making, but has defined The Lakes as a distillery taking a modern approach to creating whisky.
Unstopper the bottle, and aromas of dried fruits, hints of orange zest and pecans mingle with notes of oak. Once on the palate, the rich, sweet fruits are joined by a burst of citrus and sweet spices of vanilla and cinnamon. Apples and plums linger in the background, with the woody oak notes adding depth and fullness to the mouthful. The finish is long and lingering, with bold, sweet fruits mixing beautifully with the warmth of spicy treacle.
Glen Moray Smoky 12 Years Old
£50
For those who enjoy a bit of peat, Glen Moray’s new Smoky 12 Years Old is a thoughtful and flavour-packed gift. This single malt brings a subtle smoky twist to the brand’s classic Speyside style, combining the Glen Moray signature smoothness with the depth and character of peated barley.
Matured in a combination of American oak casks, which deliver creamy vanilla and caramel notes, and European oak casks, which add spice, fruit and structure, the result is a rich yet balanced dram. On the nose, gentle smoke drifts over orchard fruits and vanilla. The palate reveals baked plums, caramelised apples and oaky warmth, all wrapped in soft, peaty undertones. The long, satisfying finish lingers with smouldering bonfire embers and hints of spice.
Bottled at 46.3% ABV, non-chill filtered and with natural colour, Smoky Twelve is a permanent new addition to Glen Moray’s range and a fine introduction to the smoky side of single malt. Whether you’re a seasoned dram fan or just starting to explore peatier styles, this well-crafted whisky offers something both accessible and rewarding.
Jura 16 Year Old Perspective 01
£70
Perspective No.1 is the first expression in this limited edition range from the island distillery. Created from spirit matured in ex-bourbon and finished in oloroso sherry casks, it embodies the house style of Jura — fruity and well-balanced — but with a unique character of its own.
On the nose, there’s citrus and stone fruits, with a nutty hint that adds an earthy note. The touch of coastal salinity draws you in to that first sip. On the palate, the gentle sweetness of peaches and honey is evident, blending harmoniously with the citrus notes. Salted caramel, toffee, and a hint of spice add depth, drawing you into the long, warming finish.
This beautiful, golden dram is great to enjoy yourself, or to give as a gift for whisky lovers. And, thanks to every bottle of Perspective No. 1 having a unique label, it’ll be as special as the recipient.
