Last month, the world's distilleries did battle at the International Wine and Spirit Competition.
The event, now in its 44th year, aims to "promote the quality and excellence of the world’s best wines, spirits and liqueurs," according to its website.
The judging process at the competition is rigorous. Wines and liquors are subject to both professional blind tasting and chemical and microbiological analysis.
The best bottles score between 90-100 on the judges' scale, but a few receive special recognition: Gold Outstanding.
And as a result, they received elegantly-written endorsements such as: "A treasure chest of liquid gold!"
From blends to single malts to single barrels, 18 Scotches took home a Gold Outstanding award at last month's competition.
Laphroaig Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky 18 YO
"Incredible nose with amazing rich floral notes followed by smoke, rich barley, liquorice, treacle and then a wave of sea spray. Full powered entry into the mouth with immediate distribution of flavours to every taste bud. Big rich sensation as multi layers of flavour descend and smother the palate. Wonderful and sensational. A comment: 'a conquest of fresh cut flowers ready to drink with delight!'"
Source: IWSC
Ben Nevis Single Cask Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky 15 YO
"Nose leads with fragrant rose wood followed by lavender, violets and honey. Hints of caramel and toasty oak. Well edged by vanilla, cinnamon and black pepper. In the mouth dried fruit adds to the complexity along with fig and peach. Good balance and fine texture. Smooth flow leads to fine, well modulated finish."
Source: IWSC
The Glenlivet 21 Year Old Archive
"Fascinating nose that seems to offer just about everything! Rich chocolate, full malt, citrus, sherry and light smoky note. Even a hint of rum? Gracious entry into the mouth with smooth, velvet flow across the palate. Repeat of everything the nose had while extra flavours of ripe fruit, honey and some dark sugar develop. Rich spice where vanilla is dominant. Great balance and super oak support. Elegant, rich and warming. Pure perfection."
Source: IWSC
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