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Diageo plc is a British multinational beverage alcohol company, with its headquarters in London, England. It operates in more than 180 countries and produces in more than 140 sites around the world. It is a major distributor of spirits and the world’s largest producer of Scotch whisky.
Brands include:
Scotch whisky: Johnnie Walker, Cardhu, Justerini & Brooks, Bell’s, Black & White, White Horse, Caol Ila, Vat 69, Oban, Talisker, Lagavulin, Glenkinchie, Dalwhinnie, Cragganmore, Clynelish, Singleton, Dimple, Glen Elgin, Knockando, Blair Athol, Dailuaine, Glenlossie, Mannochmore, Mortlach, Strathmill, Teaninich.
American whiskey: Bulleit, Seagram’s
Canadian whisky: Crown Royal
Vodka: Smirnoff, Cîroc, Ketel One
Rum: Captain Morgan,
Gin: Gordon’s, Tanqueray, Gilbey’s, Aviation Gin

Talisker 10 year old Whisky

By Jeannette Wentzel

On 03/19/2018

In Single Malt whisky

Talisker – A name I come across plenty. Friends have been sharing pictures of bottles from this distillery for ages. A book I on whisky food pairings listed this as one of the best drams to pair with food and I realised that did not have it in my collection.

We were out shopping one Saturday morning when I saw the bottle of Talisker 10 year old single malt Scotch whisky and bought it on the spot.

A few weeks later, I got around to opening the bottle. Now looking back, I can’t imagine why I waited so long. I bought this less than six months ago, and already I need to buy a second bottle.

Talisker is the oldest working distillery on the Isle of Skye. The distillery was founded in 1830 by Hugh and Kenneth MacAskill, on the shores of Loch Harport. The distillery was updated over the years and changed hand a few times. In 1960 disaster struck. A still-house fire tragically destroyed the distillery.

Fortunately, the distillery was completely rebuilt. Exact copies of the old stills and five replicas of the original stills were constructed to maintain the preservation of the original Talisker flavour.

The malted barley used in production comes from Muir of Ord. Talisker whisky is typically peated to a phenol level of approximately 18–22 parts per million (ppm). Combine this with the harsh terrain and mineral-rich water from Cnoc nan Speireag; this creates a specific taste profile that is typical Talisker.

Diageo added Talisker to its Classic Malts portfolio together with Glenkinchie and Laphroaig, to name a few. The Talisker 10 yo single malt whisky is the lead whisky of Johnnie Walker Red Label. Other releases in the Talisker range include the Talisker Skye and Talisker Storm single malt whisky.

Also Read: Highland Park 1997 Vintage whisky

Talisker 10 year old Whisky Review

The Talisker single malt whisky is mostly aged in American oak casks.

ABV: 45.8%

COLOUR: Warm bright gold

NOSE: Peat, smoke, waves of salty sea air with hints of dried fish and seaweed. There are hints of fresh fruity sweetness and orange blossoms. Inviting and refreshing.

PALATE: Peat, smoke with hints of ash and salt. It is all wonderfully balanced out with a fruity sweetness with hints of pepper and malt. Just wonderfully delicious. There are faint hints of chocolate in the background. Adding water releases a bit more of the fruity sweetness.

FINISH: Rich and rewarding ending on notes of faint peat, bits of pepper and soft sweetness.

RATING: EXCELLENT

The Talisker 10 year old an exceptional single malt Scotch whisky. It is certainly not the most complex whisky, but it is creamy and wonderfully balanced. This combination ensures that it is easy drinking and delicious. If I can take only one bottle with me to a desert island, it would probably be this one.

Best of all, it is not that expensive either. It retails for around R680 in South Africa and ₹ 5,610 in India. If you have not yet tried this release, what are you waiting for?

I saw a book that paired the Taliskers 10 year old whisky with so many dishes. The book was called ‘Whisky & Food’ by Jan Groth and Arne Adler and they were correct. The Talisker 10 year old whisky is perfect to pair with food, including seafood such as freshly shucked oysters. It also works very nicely with Comté cheese.

As part of my comparative series, I did an evaluation between the Talisker 10 and the Ardbeg 10 year old whisky. Follow the link to see how they stack up against each other.

Also Read: Macallan 15 vs Glenfiddich 15 year old whisky

Mango Mimosa Recipe

By Jeannette Wentzel

On 01/16/2018

In Cocktails

Mango Mimosa cocktail with vodka
Many years ago, I embarked on a remarkable journey through the vast expanse of Russia. The experience was truly breathtaking. As a child, I could never have imagined standing in awe on the iconic Red Square, gazing at the intricate domes of Saint Basil’s Cathedral, and tracing my fingers along the historic walls of the Kremlin.

With the dawn of a new era after the fall of communism, Russia’s doors swung open, and I seized the chance to explore this enigmatic land. My adventure led me through the streets of Moscow and later onto a boat that gracefully sailed down the majestic Volga River, ultimately guiding me to the city of Saint Petersburg. The landscapes and encounters were nothing short of mind-blowing.

The days melded together as our vessel drifted downstream, revealing untamed wilderness occasionally punctuated by the quaint charm of rural villages.

Also Read: Cosmopolitan Cocktail

The sheer enormity of Russia is beyond comprehension for those who haven’t experienced it firsthand. We made regular stops along our journey, unveiling a new facet of this vast country’s culture.

I had the privilege of listening to enchanting choirs within charming wooden churches, exploring local craft markets, and even stumbling upon a vodka museum. It was here that I discovered the true essence of vodka. Not the harsh, raw spirits passed off as vodka in South Africa during the ’90s, but rather a spirit crafted with tenderness and fervour.

This smooth, and fragrant vodka was a revelation. The experience redefined my perception of vodka, compared to the coarse alcohol that had become the norm in South Africa.

Then something arrived…

Ciroc Mango Mimosa header

I occasionally acquired a bottle of vodka to enhance my cocktails, but my consumption remained modest. Then, a bottle of Ciroc Mango vodka entered my world. Curiosity piqued, I steeled myself for the tasting experience, admittedly tinged with trepidation.

And so, one Saturday afternoon, I took the plunge. Opting for a neat taste, I was taken aback by what I discovered – a velvety, harmonious concoction bursting with flavour. It was a flashback to the flavoured vodkas I had encountered nearly two decades prior in Russia.

Behind the scenes, Ciroc Mango vodka is meticulously crafted from the finest French grapes and distilled five times. The infusion of creamy Carabao mango introduces a medley of tropical notes, complemented by a hint of tangy citrus.

Ciroc Mango follows in the illustrious footsteps of its tropical predecessors, notably Ciroc Pineapple and the more recent addition, Ciroc Apple. With mango being one of the most tantalizing tropical flavours, its presence is set to be nothing short of a sensation. I’m convinced that mango is destined to be the defining taste of my summer.

Ciroc Mango Mimosa cocktail
In each sip of Ciroc Mango, you’ll encounter an array of vibrant tropical mango nuances underscored by a subtle tang of citrus, all ensconced in a creamy, smooth embrace.

My creative spirit was ignited, and I began crafting cocktails that would amplify the essence of this exquisite spirit. Among my experiments, one standout emerged: the Ciroc Mango Mimosa.

Also Read: Aperol Spritz Cocktail

What is a Mimosa Cocktail?

Speaking of cocktails, have you ever wondered what makes a Mimosa truly splendid? This classic cocktail harmoniously marries equal parts champagne (or any sparkling wine) with impeccably chilled citrus juice – typically orange juice.

This delightful concoction is best enjoyed in a tall champagne flute, its origins dating back to the creative mind of Frank Meier at the Hôtel Ritz Paris around 1925.

In my journey of mixology, I dabbled with various recipes of the Ciroc Mango Mimosa, testing it with mango juice as well as apple juice. Yet, as often is the case, the classic rendition prevailed.

During the holiday season, I had the pleasure of sharing this tropical delight with friends. Their reactions were testament enough – the Ciroc Mango Mimosa recipe was an instant hit.

For those who wish to recreate this blissful experience, here’s the recipe that promises to deliver sheer delight.

Mango Mimosa Recipe

Ciroc Mango Mimosa ingredients

– 100ml Ciroc Mango Vodka
– 110ml Fresh orange juice
– Sparkling wine or Champagne to top up

Combine the first 2 ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into champagne flutes. Top up with champagne or sparkling wine and serve. Makes 2 mango mimosas.

In a world where taste and memories intertwine, the Ciroc Mango Mimosa stands as a testament to the harmonious blend of cultures and flavours that I encountered in my journey through Russia.
Also Read: How to make a whisky bottle lamp

Dalwhinnie Distillers Edition Whisky

By Jeannette Wentzel

On 12/04/2017

In Single Malt whisky

The Dalwhinnie Distillers Edition 1990 single malt Scotch whisky – another release from the Diageo stable that I have had for AGES, but never adequately written about.

Representing the Highlands in the Diageo Classic Malts Collection Dalwhinnie, together with Oban, Glenkinchie, Lagavulin and Talisker complete the collection of the six original malts launched and marketed jointly by United distillers in 1988.

Where the Great North Road and the Highland Railway meet, the Dalwhinnie distillery was first called Strathspey. The name changed to Dalwhinnie after it was sold to a Mar A Blyth. Dalwhinnie translates to “The Meeting Place”. It is one of the highest distilleries in Scotland sitting at around 350 m above sea level.

The town with the same name has recorded some of the coldest winter temperatures and has an average annual temperature of 6.6 C. Rather cold compared to Centurion’s average winter temperature of around 17 C.

Dalwhinnie has the benefit of the clear spring water from Lochan-Doire-Uaine and an abundant supply peat from the surrounding bogs. The distillery releases a Dalwhinnie 15 year old, The Dalwhinnie Distillers Edition and a Dalwhinnie Winters Gold Scotch whisky.

Some friends joined us for this tasting, and it was exciting to share this Distillers Edition 1990 single malt with Roelia and Jan from Social Savage.

Also Read: Ballechin 10 yo Whisky

Dalwhinnie Distillers Edition Whisky

REGION: Speyside

ABV: 43%

COLOUR: Dark amber gold

NOSE: Dried fruit, sherry and cherries with hints of winter spice. Warming and inviting, there are faint hints of Christmas pudding and vanilla.

PALATE: Rich, creamy and complex. Notes of sherry, fruitcake and fruit mingle with nutmeg, vanilla and cinnamon with hints of allspice. Hints of honey sweetness balanced with little bits of black pepper.

Adding water brings more of the winter spice to the front. The Distillers Edition whisky is a fantastic, smooth, sophisticated release. As John would say ” This properly puts a smile on my face.”

FINISH: Long and lingering alternating between the sweet vanilla and the spicy pepper with hints of sweetness. Warming.

RATING: DIVINE

A perfectly balanced whisky. The sweetness is wonderfully matched with the spiciness. The layers of tastes just keep on building. In the end, all of us agreed. This Distiller’s Edition was an amazing dram. Sadly you can’t find this release anymore. Master of Malt lists it as “discontinued”. If you see a bottle on auction, it is worth grabbing.

I loved the Dalwhinnie 15 yo Scotch whisky, but this is on a different level. In the past, I have tried the Dalwhinnie 1990 Distillers Edition with some Lindt hand-made dark chocolate and vanilla pieces. It made for a superb whisky chocolate pairing combination. I love the various Diageo Distillers Editions; we recently opened a bottle of Glenkinchie 1986 Distillers Edition, and it was amazing!

I started the year with a Divine when I tasted the Three Ships Pinotage Cask, and just before I end the year, this Divine whisky pops up. Now to see which of these two will be our “Whisky of the Year” for 2017. But that will come later. Now to sit back and enjoy more of this delicious release.

Also Read: Dimple Pinch 15 yo Whisky

Whisky and Wensleydale Cheese Pairing

By Jeannette Wentzel

On 09/20/2017

In Whisky & Cheese

Whisky and Wensleydale Cheese Pairing to try
This past couple of weekend I have been testing a lot of whisky and cheese pairings again. After the craziness that was June and July, weekends have slowed down and lefts some space for experimenting.

I was sitting back, grabbing a few whiskies, opening up some interesting cheese and in general just relaxing a bit. I tried a goats cheese and bourbon pairings, but that elicited a slightly negative response from John.

He hates goats cheese and no bourbon and goats cheese pairing worked for him. Me, well I love goats cheese and appreciated all the pairings. I served it with some crusty baguettes and thought it was fabulous. The next weekend we moved on to a Wensleydale cheese with cranberries.

Also Read: Nectarine Bourbon Smash

Previously I paired a Wensleydale cheese with mango and ginger with some Glenkinchie 12 year old whisky, and it was a great pairing.

French Cistercian monks from the Roquefort region, who had settled in Wensleydale, first made Wensleydale cheese. When the monastery dissolved, the local farmers continued making the cheese-making tradition.

Wensleydale cheese is traditionally firm and creamy with sweet notes. It is a great cheese to pair with fruit. This Wensleydale with cranberries is from Somerset and a crumbly semi-hard cheese. The cranberries add a zesty note to the flavour. So let’s try a few bold and exciting whisky and Wensleydale cheese pairings

Whisky and Wensleydale cheese pairing

Glenfarclas 12 year old Whisky

Glenfarclas 12yo Whisky and Wensleydale cheese pairing
The first pairing was the sherried Glenfarclas 12 year old whisky. Tasting notes for the Speyside classic single malt Scotch include notes of fruitcake, raisins, oak and spice. The sweetness of the Glenfarclas complimented the sweetness of the cheese and made for a creamy combination. The tart cranberry notes got a bit lost in all the sweetness. RATING: 3/5

Johnnie Walker Swing Blended Whisky

Johnnie Walker Swing Whisky and Wensleydale cheese pairing
A Johnnie Walker blended Scotch with hints of peat, dried fruits, tobacco and leather. There are bits of sherry sweetness with some ginger in the Swing. The peaty smoke worked well with the creamy, rich cheese and created a comforting and delicious pairing. RATING: 3.5/5

Also Read: Pina Colada Cocktail

Glenmorangie Sonnalta Whisky

Glenmorangie Sonnalta PX Whisky and Wensleydale cheese pairing
After spending ten years maturing in American white oak casks, the Sonnalta PX is transferred into PX casks for its final two years of extra-maturation. This makes it a sweet dram with hints of dried fruits, honey and spices. The pairing of the Glenmorangie Sonnalta PX with the Wensleydale is fantastic. The cream of the cheese and the body of the whisky are perfectly paired to make for a delicious combination. RATING: 4/5

Macallan 15 year old Fine Oak Whisky

Macallan Fine Oak 15 yo Whisky and Wensleydale cheese pairing
The Macallan Fine Oak 15 year old whisky boasts notes of oak and orange blossom sweetness barley, vanilla sweetness mixed with some pepper spice and nutmeg. It is big and bold, and I was scared that it would overwhelm this cheese, but the pairing was excellent. Creamy and elegant with bright tart notes from the cranberry. RATING: 4/5

What is your favourite whisky to pair with a creamy Wensleydale?

Also Read: Peaty whisky and blue cheese pairings

Bushmills 16 year old Whiskey

By Jeannette Wentzel

On 02/20/2017

In Irish Whiskey

The Bushmills 16 year old single malt Irish whiskey is probably one of the dustiest bottles in my collection. I have had this bottle for more than eight years, and although we have tried it a few times, I have never written about it.

With all the new whisky arrivals, it got moved right to the back of my whisky cupboard. In December, while sorting and organizing, I stumbled across it again. So it made it to my tasting list early in 2017.

Bushmills is a distillery in Bushmills, County Antrim, Northern Ireland. The Bushmills Old Distillery Company itself established in 1784 by Hugh Anderson. However, there is limited information available on any whiskey distilled during that early time.

After various periods of closure in its subsequent history, the distillery has been in continuous operation since it was rebuilt after a fire in 1885. In 1890, a steamship named SS Bushmills, travelled across the Atlantic to deliver Bushmills whiskey to America.

Also Read: Jameson Select Reserve whiskey

In the early 20th century, America was a significant market for Bushmills. Then came the American Prohibition in 1920. It harmed Bushmills and the Irish whiskey industry. But Bushmills managed to survive and when Prohibition ended, had ample stores of whiskey ready to export.

The Bushmills Distillery changed hands a few times, and in 2005, it became part of the Diageo stable. In November 2014, Diageo announced that the Bushmills brand was being traded with Jose Cuervo in exchange for the 50% of the Don Julio brand of tequila that Diageo did not already own.

Bushmills 16 year old Irish Whiskey Review

The core range of single malts consists of a 10 year old, the 16 year old and a 21 year old finished in Madeira casks for two years. Bushmills single malt whiskey 16 year old is aged in a combination of Oloroso Sherry and Bourbon-seasoned casks, then matured for several months in port pipes.

ABV: 43%

COLOUR: Dark Copper mahogany

NOSE: Sherry sweetness, vanilla and roasted apples, stewed fruit. Rich and creamy with hints of honey and cinnamon.

PALATE: Smooth with notes of Christmas spices and summer fruit, oak, vanilla, honey and citrus. The Bushmills 16 year old single malt is not very complex, and although it is smooth, it is not as easy-drinking as I expected. Water brings out a bit more vanilla sweetness and tones down the citrus but also flattens the dram.

FINISH: Arid woody finish with notes citrus, pepper and oak. Hints of wet leather.

RATING: VERY GOOD

It is as if you have three beautiful puzzle pieces in your hand, but they are from 3 different puzzles. The pieces don’t fit together quite so well. They are all a bit disjointed. I was expecting a bit more from the Bushmills 16 year old whiskey. I need to explore from this Irish distillery to see if I can find something nicer. What release should I try?

Also Read:Dunville’s Three Crowns Sherry Finish Whiskey