Tag: Beam Suntory Page 1 of 7

Beam Suntory, Inc. is an American multinational company that produces alcoholic beverages. It is a subsidiary of Suntory Holdings of Osaka, Japan, and the company’s headquarters are in Chicago, Illinois. It is the third largest producer of distilled beverages worldwide. The company’s principal brands include :

Jim Beam, Maker’s Mark, Booker’s, Knob Creek bourbon
Laphroaig, Bowmore, Ardmore, Auchentoshan, Teacher’s Highland Cream whisky
Connemara and Kilbeggan Irish whiskey
DYC whisky
Yamazaki, Hakushu, Hibiki, Chita whisky

Laphroaig Four Oak Whisky

By Jeannette Wentzel

On 06/17/2024

In Single Malt whisky

It feels like a peat focused year and this week is no exception. The spotlight this week is shining on the Laphroaig Four Oak Islay single malt Scotch whisky. Peated whiskies always seem to beckon me from the shelves when it comes time to choose, and this particular expression has certainly piqued my interest.

It’s a testament to the evolution of my palate as I explore the whisky landscape, or it’s simply John’s penchant for picking up peated gems on his travels.

Regardless, let’s dive into the realm of the Laphroaig Four Oak whisky release. Many whisky aficionados see Laphroaig as the essential Islay.

Nestled just outside Port Ellen, this distillery, founded in 1815 by Alexander and Donald Johnston, has etched its name in the annals of whisky history. Under the wing of the Beam Suntory Group since 2014, Laphroaig draws its water from Loch Laphroaig on the island’s southern coast.

The distinctive character of Laphroaig comes from its proximity to the ocean and the abundant moss-laden peat of its surroundings.

Laphroaig holds a prominent place in my collection, with the Laphroaig PX Cask reigning as one of my favourites.

The Laphroaig Four Oak was released for the travel retail market in 2016. The Four Oak is a combination of whisky matured in four different oak types, namely ex-bourbon barrels, 19th Century-style quarter casks, virgin American oak barrels and European oak hogsheads. It is a non-age statement release.

Laphroaig Four Oak Whisky Review

ABV: 40%

COLOUR: Bright gold

REGION: Islay in Scotland

NOSE: Not as bold as I have come to expect from Laphroaig. There are notes of smoke and medicinal peat mixed with iodine, damp wood, caramel sweetness, hints of red berries and roasted nuts. There is a faint spiciness in the background combined with vanilla, dark roasted coffee beans and malt.

PALATE: The Laphroaig Four Oaks has notes of peat and ash with bits of tar and salty dry seaweed. Oak and a dried fish note mingle with a caramel sweetness, pepper, vanilla and sultanas: soft medicinal TCP and iodine.

Subdued vanilla, cardamom and nutmeg stand next to almonds, burnt coffee beans and salty Dutch drop (liquorice). It feels a bit unfinished, and adding water thins the Laphroaig out. It has a light mouthfeel with a slight alcohol heat. Nothing like the refined Laphroaig Quarter Cask or the bold and complex 10 year old release.

FINISH: The Laphroaig Four Oaks finish is drying burnt wood and pepper. Medium length with hints of iodine, peat and salted caramel. Bits of vanilla and hints of salty liquorice.

RATING: GOOD

This is probably my least favourite Laphroaig, with the exception of the Laphroaig Brodir. I might even call it boring. It lacks the bold medicinal peat, ash, and smoke that I came to expect from Laphroaig.

Water tones down the alcohol heat but also tones down any interesting notes. Don’t add water. It feels like a very young single malt whisky. A redeeming feature is the salty liquorice notes. It reminds me a bit of Dutch drop, which I love.

The Four Oak retail for around $72 in the USA or £ 61 in the UK. I am not sure it is worth it for a non-age-statement single malt Scotch that feels very young. For GBP 60, I would rather buy some Talisker or Caol Ila whisky.

I have done a side by side comparison between the Laphroaig 10 year old and the Quarter Cask whisky release to see how they differ.

Laphroaig 10 vs Quarter Cask Whisky

By Jeannette Wentzel

On 04/15/2024

In Whisky Comparison

Laphroaig 10 year old vs Quarter Cask Whisky
Embarking on an Islay adventure, I delve into the exquisite realm of Laphroaig with a head-to-head comparison of the renowned Laphroaig 10 vs Quarter Cask single malt Scotch whiskies.

Islay – a name that conjures visions of a windswept, solitary island amidst the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean. Its history, rich with tales of exploration and conquest, is woven into the fabric of its rugged landscape, adorned with a few remaining Neolithic standing stones atop granite hills.

And what better way to immerse oneself in the essence of Islay than with two bottles of Laphroaig Islay single malt Scotch whisky?

Laphroaig, the epitome of Islay’s essence, draws its name from the waters of Loch Laphroaig on the island’s southern coast. Established by the Johnson brothers in 1815, this distillery has changed hands over the years, now residing in the Beam Suntory stable. Other Scottish distilleries in the portfolio include Auchentoshan and Bowmore distillery.

The distinctive characteristic of Laphroaig emanates from its proximity to the ocean and the abundant moss-laden peat of its surroundings. Now, let’s uncover how these two exceptional expressions fare when placed side by side.

Also Read: Johnnie Walker Green vs Blue Label Whisky

Laphroaig 10 year old Whisky

Laphroaig 10 yo vs Quater Cask with glass
The 10 year old Islay single malt Scotch whisky is part of the Laphroaig core (Iconic) range. It was aged for ten years in ex-bourbon barrel casks. There are various cask-strength versions, as well as the standard 40% ABV release.

Laphroaig Quarter Cask Whisky

Laphroaig Quarter Cask Islay whisky with glass b

Introduced in 2004, the Laphroaig Quarter Cask Islay single malt Scotch whisky undergoes a unique ageing process. Initially matured in standard ex-bourbon oak barrels, it is transferred to smaller quarter casks, intensifying the interaction between whisky and oak. It is a NAS release.

Laphroaig 10 vs Quarter Cask Whisky

Laphroaig 10 vs quarter cask whisky comparison

	Laphroaig 10 yo	Laphroaig Quarter Cask
Type	Single malt whisky	Single malt whisky
ABV	40%	48%
Colour	Dark gold	Sparking gold
Age statement	10 year old	NAS
Nose	Big and bold with notes of moist ocean air, seedweed, smoke, peat, iodine and ash but with hints of fruity sweetness, bits of salted caramel.	Burnt peat, seaweed and medicinal iodine. Mild smoke and a surprising hint of spicy sweetness. A bold, rich, and complex aroma.
Palate	The peatiness and the sweetness is nicely balanced. Notes of iodene, charred wood, smoke, earth and malt softened by sweeter ripe fruit drizzled with honey. A burnt coffee bean note in the background. Big and bold bold, but with class and finesse.	There are notes of peat, smoke and seaweed. Hints of iodine, citrus and honey. In the background oak, smoked bacon, cinnamon and tobacco. The addition of water makes the Quarter Cask smoother and softens the medicinal notes.
Finish	Long and lingering with reminders of burning driftwood and caramel.	It's long, and it's lingering, and it's complex. It changes from peat to sweet to spicy.
My Rating	Excellent	Excellent
Price	$47 / £40	$70 / £47
Pairs well with	Smoked ribs or brisket, blue cheese, or dark chocolate	BBQed meats, cured salmon, and strong cheeses

While both whiskies embody the quintessential Laphroaig essence of peat, ash, and smoke, they are very different when compared.

The Laphoriag 10 year old whisky’s nose has notes of salty ocean air and fresh fruit sweetness. Tasting continues the peat and smoke, mixed with toasted oak, honey, and a light note of burnt coffee beans. The finish is long and lingering.

On the other hand, the Laphroaig Quarter Cask whisky has bolder medicinal notes mixed with spices on the nose. On the palate, the Quarter Cask has more citrus, smoked bacon, cinnamon, and hints of tobacco. Again, there is a long and lingering finish, but it is spicier than the 10 year old.

In terms of affordability, the Laphroaig Quater Cask single malt whisky retails for around £47 and the standard 10 year old single malt Scotch for £40 on Amazon.

Choosing a favourite proves challenging. The Laphroaig 10 year old has a more seaweed and fruit vibe, while the Quarter Cask is medicinal and spicy with more wooden notes.

I enjoyed the 10 year old release because of the sweet notes, but hubby prefers the Quarter Cask due to the spice. Both are excellent drams; it just comes down to your own preference.

Also Read: Ardbeg Corryvreckan vs Uigeadail Whisky

Maker’s Mark Bourbon Whiskey

By Jeannette Wentzel

On 08/25/2023

In Bourbon whiskey

This Maker’s Mark Kentucky Straight bourbon whiskey bottle holds a special place in my whiskey journey. It was one of my first forays into the world of bourbon, a spirit that my love for single malt and blended whisky had previously overshadowed.

Back in 2013, Maker’s Mark made headlines when they decided to lower the ABV (Alcohol by Volume) of their bourbon.

This decision piqued my curiosity, and I couldn’t resist grabbing a bottle of their “full strength” bourbon from WhiskyBrother in Hydepark. Little did I know that this decision, which they later reversed, would mark the beginning of my love affair with bourbon.

Maker’s Mark, distilled in Loretto, Kentucky, has a rich history dating back to 1954. T. William “Bill” Samuels Sr. acquired the distillery, known initially as Burks’ Distillery, and embarked on a journey to create a distinctive bourbon.

During the development phase, Samuels experimented with seven different mash bills. Rather than distilling them all, he opted for a unique approach.

He baked loaves of bread with these various grain recipes and selected the most delectable one. The winning loaf contained a high proportion of barley and red winter wheat, omitting rye altogether.

Samuels, with the guidance of St. Pappy Van Winkle and the creative touch of his wife, Marjorie “Margie” Samuels, gave birth to Maker’s Mark, complete with its iconic label and signature red wax seal.

Fast forward to 1968, and the first Maker’s Mark bourbon whiskey graced the world. What sets Maker’s Mark apart from many other bourbons is its mash bill, which excludes rye in favour of red winter wheat (16%), corn (70%), and malted barley (14%).

Maker’s Mark carries no age statement; it is bottled when their expert tasters deem it ready, typically around six years old. The brand is owned by Beam Suntory.

Other releases include the Maker’s 46, a cask strength edition as well as a wood finish series.

Also Read: Jim Beam Double Oak Bourbon

Maker’s Mark Bourbon Whiskey Review

COUNTRY: USA

ABV: 45%

COLOUR: A light golden copper. It seems lighter in colour than the other bourbons in my collection.

NOSE: Maker’s Mark reveals a less pronounced sweetness than other bourbons I have tasted. Scents of condensed milk, cherries, brandied fruit, toasted wood, and sweet vanilla spice intermingle. A few drops of water amplify the spicy and woody notes on the nose.

PALATE: When sipped neat, the palate bursts with vanilla spice, followed by cherries and fresh fruit sweetness. A layer of cinnamon spice and toasted oak follows the initial fruity notes. Maker’s Mark impresses with its velvety smoothness, and the flavour profile evolves with each subsequent sip.

It perfectly balances vanilla sweetness, cinnamon-infused oak spiciness, and subtle fruity hints. Adding water further refines the bourbon, making it exceptionally easy to savour.

FINISH: Long with hints of sweetness, vanilla and caramel.

RATING: EXCELLENT

What an excellent introduction for those new to bourbon. In contrast, seasoned bourbon enthusiasts will also enjoy and appreciate its versatility in crafting cocktails. Its approachable nature ensures you can enjoy it all evening without growing weary of its company.

Another great aspect of this bourbon is the price. It retails for around £32 on Amazon and I regularly see it on special.

The Maker’s Mark is a great companion to a creamy Gouda cheese. It balances the buttery Gouda with the oak and vanilla.

Additionally, I’ve had the pleasure of tasting Maker’s 46, a unique release from this distillery. In my quest to discover perfect pairings, I once paired this bourbon with some KFC to assess the synergy between flavours.

Other Side by Side comparisons

I also compared Maker’s Mark and Buffalo Trace bourbon side-by-side to discern their distinct characteristics. For those interested in exploring the nuances within the Maker’s Mark portfolio, I’ve delved into the differences between Maker’s 46 and the classic Maker’s Mark.

This bourbon, with its rich history and exceptional flavour profile, continues to be a beloved and intriguing presence in the world of bourbon.

Also Read: Uncle Nearest 1856 Whiskey

Maker’s Mark vs Woodford Reserve Bourbon

By Jeannette Wentzel

On 05/22/2023

In Whisky Comparison

Maker's Mark bourbon vs Woodford Reserve Bourbon whiskey comparison.

It has been ages since I have done a comparison post, and they are always so much fun. The last ones I did was between rye whiskey. So let’s look at a comparison I have been avoiding, two of my favourite bourbons against each other. The Maker’s Mark vs Woodford Reserve bourbon.

To make it fair, we did the tasting in unmarked glasses. It is much more difficult when you have to compare whiskey and are unsure of what is in your glass. But to objectively choose our favourite, we tasted it blind.

Maker’s Mark Bourbon Whiskey

Maker's Mark bourbon Whisky with glass

The bourbon that made me fall in love with bourbon. I always have a bottle, it’s perfect in cocktails and in my glass. Maker’s Mark Kentucky Straight bourbon whiskey is produced at the old Burk’s Distillery in Loretto. Beam Suntory owns the distillery and brand. It is bottled in very recognizable squarish bottles sealed with red wax.

The mash bill does not include rye. Instead, the Maker’s Mark mash bill uses red winter wheat (16%), along with corn (70%) and malted barley (14%).

Maker’s Mark bourbon whiskey has no age statement. It is bottled when the tasters agree it is ready, roughly around 6 yo. Other expressions include the Maker’s 46 and the Maker’s Cask Strength bourbon. Occasionally this release is on special at Amazon and it is worth looking out for it.

It is an excellent introduction to bourbon for someone unfamiliar with it and an ideal base for cocktails.

Woodford Reserve Bourbon Whiskey

Woodford Reserve Straight Bourbon with glass b

Another bottle that I always have in my house. Woodford Reserve is a small-batch Kentucky Straight bourbon brand produced by the Brown-Forman Corporation. Distilling began on the site of the current distillery in 1812.

The distillery was formerly known as the Old Oscar Pepper Distillery. Brown Forman introduced the brand to the market in 1996. Other releases in the brand include the Double Oaked and Rye whiskey.

The mash bill for Woodford Reserve features a high percentage of rye. It has a 72% corn, 18% rye and 10% malt ratio. Woodford Reserve has no age statement but matures for at least 6 years. It is easily available and I see it regularly at Amazon for around £35. This bourbon is perfect for an Old Fashioned cocktail.

Also Read: Johnnie Walker Blue vs Black Label Whisky

Maker’s Mark vs Woodford Reserve Bourbon

Comparison makers mark vs woodford reserve bourbon

	Maker's Mark	Woodford Reserve
Type	Bourbon	Bourbon
Mashbill	70% corn, 16% Red winter wheat, 14% malted barley	72% corn, 18% rye and 10% malt
ABV	45%	43.2%
Colour	Light golden copper	Dark copper
Nose	Cherries, brandied fruit, toasted wood and vanilla spice. Adding a few drops of water brings out more spice and woody notes.	Honey sweetness with apricots and oranges. Bits of condensed milk richness mixed with vanilla, dark chocolate and hints of spices.
Palate	Full of vanilla, followed by sweet cherries and fresh red fruit. Cinnamon and toasted oak. A few drops of water brings butterscotch and warming nutmeg. Delicious and very easy drinking.	Oak and sweetness perfectly balanced with apricot and cinnamon spiciness. Tangy winter fruits and vanilla mixed with toffee. Creamy and smooth with a full body and a satisfying mouthfeel.
Finish	Long with hints of sweetness, vanilla and caramel.	Long and lingering and ends in notes of sweetness and spices
My Rating	Excellent	Excellent
Price	$33	$40

Such a problematic comparison: Maker’s Mark vs Woodford Reserve bourbon. Both are stellar drams. Delicious, bold and drinkable. Glass 1 was the Woodford and glass 2 was the Maker’s bourbon. I did not even attempt to guess which one was which; I just tried to find my favourite.

For me, the Woodford Reserve was my favourite. I liked the fruity sweetness more. The condensed milk, vanilla, dark chocolate notes, and soft oak spices suit my palate. Woodford Reserve bourbon will suit someone who likes sweeter drinks.

John preferred the Maker’s Mark bourbon. It is slightly spicier than the Woodford Reserve, with more vanilla, wood and cherry notes. This bourbon will suit someone who likes a bit of a spicy kick mixed with a red fruit sweetness.

John ventured a guess as to which is which, and he was correct. If you look out for the cherry notes in the Maker’s Mark, you can identify it.

Both have a long finish, with the Woodford ending slightly sweeter and the Maker’s ending in vanilla and caramel. I am not going to complain about either bourbon in my glass. They are both delicious.

Also Read: Woodford Reserve Rye vs Bulleit Rye whiskey

The Chita Single Grain Japanese Whisky

By Jeannette Wentzel

On 04/10/2023

In Grain Whisky

I am expanding my grain tasting notes a bit today with The Chita single grain Japanese whisky. A grain whisky from Japan which had fans of Japanese whisky very excited. There has been lots of hype around Japanese whisky these last couple of years.

The prices of Japanese whisky has skyrocketed, and brands like Hakushu, Yamazaki and Hibiki are sold at premium prices.

There has also been a new focus on grain whiskies with grain releases coming from Japan, Scotland and of course South Africa’s own Bain’s whisky.

I received this bottle of The Chita single grain Japanese whisky as a gift from a friend of John’s. He could not believe that that I did not have a bottle in my collection and immediately went out and bought me one.

The Chita grain whisky is the primary grain component of many of the Suntory blended whiskies. Founded in 1972, Chita distillery is a Japanese whisky distillery located in the Chita district of the Aichi Prefecture, Japan.

Also Read: Milk & Honey Classic Whisky

The Chita distillery produces three types of grain whisky using corn through a continuous multiple column distillation process. The first two are blended whisky components that are used in blends.

Both in Suntory’s domestic market Kakubin and Suntory Old as well as high-end Hibiki respectively. The third type is the distillery’s flagship single grain release called “The Chita”.

Launched in 2015, the Chita is matured in three different kinds of casks: American ex-bourbon barrels, Spanish oak barrels and European oak wine barrels. It has no age statement.

The Chita Single Grain Japanese Whisky Review

COUNTRY: Japan

ABV: 43%

COLOUR: Light autumn golden

NOSE: Honey sweetness, cereal, pineapple, mango and melon. Hints of soft spices and vanilla. Delicate and sweet with hints of tropical fruit.

PALATE: Vanilla sponge cake sweetness and oak with honey and tropical fruit. Hints of floral notes with toasted grains. Honey drizzled mango and pineapple. Medium body but not very complicated. Faint traces of cinnamon and cardamom. A few rough edges. Water smoothes out the sharp bits and brings even more fruity sweetness forward. Easy drinking.

FINISH: Medium length, with notes of lemon drops, vanilla and wood.

RATING: GOOD

Not the most complex whisky. Also, one of the sweetest drams I have had in a while. A bit too sweet perhaps. Take into account that I have a sweet tooth and love sweet things; it was a bit much even for me. I found it bland and uninspiring.

I might be biased, but this is not in the same class as my beloved Bain’s grain whisky. The Bain’s whisky is bolder and make you sit up and take notice. It has sweetness and tropical notes, but they are better balanced.

Compared to this Japanese release, the Bain’s is way more memorable. The Chita retail price in South Africa is around R1 300, which is rather steep. In the UK, I have seen this on Amazon for £60. The Bain’s whisky sells for only R300 (before Covid).

Suntory launched The Chita, especially for use in the Japanese highball cocktail market. It will undoubtedly make a good base for a cocktail.

What did you think of this Japanese grain release? Overhyped or best thing ever?

Also Read: Boplaas Single Grain Whisky