{"title":"Whiskies with serious character","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"tomintoul-10-year-old-single-cask-wc","title":"Tomintoul 10 Year Old Single Cask  (WC) (O\/L)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eTomintoul Distillery sits high in the Livet Glen in Speyside, surrounded by heather-covered hills and fed by the Ballantruan spring. This elevated, inland setting with cool temperatures and soft water has helped shape Tomintoul’s reputation for producing a particularly gentle, approachable style of single malt. The 10 Year Old Single Cask bottlings come from individually selected barrels that show a clear sense of Tomintoul’s character: clean distillation, long, cool fermentation and patient maturation in carefully chosen oak. Each cask is bottled on its own, usually at or close to natural cask strength, without heavy filtration, giving a more concentrated and distinctive expression than the standard releases while staying true to the distillery’s elegant, easy-drinking profile. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eColour:\u003cbr\u003eLight to medium gold, bright and clear, reflecting a decade in oak without heavy colouring.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNose:\u003cbr\u003eSoft aromas of honey, vanilla and malted barley lead, followed by orchard fruit notes of apple and pear, gentle citrus, and hints of toffee, sponge cake and light oak spice. A touch of heather and dried grass adds a subtle, rural Speyside feel.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePalate:\u003cbr\u003eMedium bodied but concentrated, especially if bottled at cask strength. Sweet malt, honey and vanilla are wrapped around flavours of apple, pear and a little dried apricot. The mouthfeel is creamy yet lively, with a warming alcohol presence and well-integrated oak giving notes of toffee, nutmeg and a hint of toasted nuts. A splash of water usually opens up more fruit and softens the spice.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFinish:\u003cbr\u003eMedium to long, with lingering honeyed malt, gentle oak spice and a faintly nutty, malty sweetness that tapers off smoothly.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Sonas Reserves","offers":[{"title":"Single Malt \/ 750ml Bottle","offer_id":45074388451507,"sku":"WHNV22WS27","price":2199.0,"currency_code":"ZAR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0713\/5195\/9731\/files\/13636-large_default_b98c5539-46b2-4413-862a-430bc45c7c39.jpg?v=1762246448"},{"product_id":"glentauchers-2012-single-malt-whisky","title":"Glentauchers 2012 Single Malt Whisky - 11 YO","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGlentauchers is a relatively low-profile Speyside distillery near Keith, better known historically as a component in blends than as a single malt. Long, slow distillations and tall stills give a light, fruity spirit that takes well to refill and bourbon wood without being dominated by oak. Independent bottlers often highlight Glentauchers for its clean orchard-fruit profile, gentle malt sweetness and easy drinkability. An 11-year-old 2012 vintage typically shows the distillery character clearly: bourbon-led maturation for vanilla and honey, with enough age for complexity but still plenty of fresh fruit. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eColour:\u003cbr\u003eLight to medium gold, suggesting predominantly ex-bourbon or refill cask maturation rather than heavy sherry influence.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNose:\u003cbr\u003eGreen and yellow apple, pear and lemon zest up front, with honey, vanilla and malted barley in support. Secondary notes may include light floral tones, a touch of biscuit, and gentle baking spice (nutmeg, cinnamon) from the oak.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePalate:\u003cbr\u003eLight to medium-bodied, with a smooth, slightly oily texture. Flavours of apple, pear and barley sugar lead, joined by vanilla fudge and soft citrus. Oak shows as gentle spice and a touch of toasted wood rather than heavy tannin. Alcohol (especially if cask strength) brings a warming lift but should integrate well with a dash of water. Overall, it’s clean, fruity and easy to sip, more about delicacy than sheer power.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFinish:\u003cbr\u003eMedium in length, with lingering malt sweetness, apple skin, vanilla and a mild peppery or gingery warmth.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Sonas Reserves","offers":[{"title":"Single Malt \/ 750ml Bottle","offer_id":45074389762227,"sku":"WHXX22WS90","price":1899.0,"currency_code":"ZAR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0713\/5195\/9731\/files\/ardmore.jpg?v=1771925756"},{"product_id":"blended-malt-sherry-cask-10-year-old","title":"Blended Malt - Sherry Cask 10","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"505\" data-end=\"1186\"\u003eThe Blended Malt - Sherry Cask 10 Y\/O (WC) is a thoughtful whisky selection curated by the Wine-of-the-Month Club panel, offering approachable complexity without excessive oak dominance. Part of the growing global interest in 10-year-old blended malts, this whisky draws its character from extended time in sherry casks - barrels that have previously held sherry wine, which impart deeper fruit complexity and subtle sweetness to the spirit. Sherry-cask maturation is widely acknowledged to contribute rich dried fruit and nutty elements - think raisins, apricots, and toasted almond - along with gentle honey and vanilla background notes. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1188\" data-end=\"1601\"\u003eBlended malts like this are created by marrying single malt whiskies from multiple distilleries, each aged for at least ten years. The sherry cask influence, often Spanish Oloroso or similar styles, adds warmth and depth while maintaining balance and drinkability. The result is a whisky that sits comfortably between everyday-friendly pours and richer single malt offerings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1188\" data-end=\"1601\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1670\" data-end=\"1827\"\u003eNose:\u003cbr data-start=\"1679\" data-end=\"1682\"\u003eRich aromas of dried fruit - think raisins and figs - mingle with toasted almonds, a hint of caramel, and a touch of spice from the sherry casks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1670\" data-end=\"1827\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1829\" data-end=\"2052\"\u003ePalate:\u003cbr data-start=\"1840\" data-end=\"1843\"\u003eMedium-bodied and supple, with balanced sweetness. Flavours of dark fruit, honeyed vanilla and subtle oak spice are complemented by a gentle malt warmth. There’s a soft, toffee-like richness without heaviness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1829\" data-end=\"2052\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2054\" data-end=\"2181\"\u003eFinish:\u003cbr data-start=\"2065\" data-end=\"2068\"\u003eLong and warming, with lingering notes of dried fruit and a mild nuttiness that fades to a dry, satisfying close.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Sonas Reserves","offers":[{"title":"750ml Bottle","offer_id":45074391204019,"sku":"WHXXXXWB38","price":819.0,"currency_code":"ZAR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0713\/5195\/9731\/files\/blended-malt-sherry-cask-10-year-old.jpg?v=1758713351"},{"product_id":"smokehead-twisted-stout-islay-single-malt","title":"Smokehead Twisted Stout Islay Single Malt","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis unconventional expression from the Smokehead range pushes the boundaries of Islay style by marrying classic smoky single malt character with the rich flavours of stout beer cask finishing. Initially matured in ex-bourbon casks, the whisky spends its final maturation period in casks that previously held stout - infusing bold peaty intensity with deeper, sweeter notes inspired by dark beer. The result is a dram that respects its maritime heritage while offering a playful, modern twist on traditional Scotch.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNose: Peat smoke and maritime air are laced with sweet dark chocolate and treacle toffee aromas, with hints of espresso and roasted malt emerging.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1301\" data-end=\"1304\"\u003ePalate: Full-bodied and smoky, it reveals layers of roasted nuts, vanilla, toasted marshmallow and charred oak, all lifted by subtle citrus zest that balances sweetness and smoke.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1525\" data-end=\"1528\"\u003eFinish: A long and warming finish where lingering peat meets spices and malt-driven biscuit notes, linking classic Islay character with stout-inspired richness.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Firebrand","offers":[{"title":"Single Malt \/ 750ml Bottle","offer_id":45075196281011,"sku":"WHNV22WS54","price":979.0,"currency_code":"ZAR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0713\/5195\/9731\/files\/13712-large_default_4b1ba4b5-fe2a-412a-ad90-d28db903fb06.jpg?v=1762248678"},{"product_id":"loch-lomond-12yr-inchmoan-single-malt","title":"Loch Lomond 12yr Inchmoan Single Malt","description":"\u003cp\u003eLoch Lomond’s Inchmoan 12-Year-Old is a distinctive peated single malt drawn from the heart of the Scottish Highlands. Named after an island on Loch Lomond, this expression showcases the distillery’s unconventional still setup - blending spirit from both traditional Swan Neck and unique Straight Neck copper pot stills. That combination contributes to its layered character, with gentle smoke balanced against fruity and spicy notes. It’s matured for a full 12 years in a marriage of re-charred American oak and ex-bourbon casks, then bottled at 46 % ABV without chill-filtration to preserve texture and flavour.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNose: Warm, dry peat smoke leads, with vanilla syrup, cracked black pepper and a touch of oak sweetness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1350\" data-end=\"1353\"\u003ePalate: A balance of sweet, medicinal peat and smoked bacon gives way to roasted coffee and spice notes - clove and star anise - with green apple and pear developing mid-palate.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1572\" data-end=\"1575\"\u003eFinish: Long and waxy, the smoky character lingers with citrus hop hints and a subtle fruity edge.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Firebrand","offers":[{"title":"Single Malt \/ 750ml Bottle","offer_id":45093671403699,"sku":"WHNV22WS39","price":815.0,"currency_code":"ZAR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0713\/5195\/9731\/files\/11965-large_default.jpg?v=1762155536"},{"product_id":"douse-the-glim-10yo-single-malt-scotch-whisky-wc","title":"Douse-The-Glim 10YO Single Malt Scotch Whisky (WC)","description":"\u003cp\u003eCrafted in the classic Scotch tradition, Douse-The-Glim 10YO is matured in refill hogshead barrels to let the spirit’s innate richness and grain character shine through without over-oaking. The result is a balanced expression where malt and subtle wood influence complement each other, giving drinkers a smooth, well-rounded dram that’s approachable yet flavour-packed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1315\" data-end=\"1423\"\u003eAppearance:\u003cbr data-start=\"1330\" data-end=\"1333\"\u003eWarm golden amber in the glass - clear and inviting.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1315\" data-end=\"1423\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1425\" data-end=\"1607\"\u003eNose:\u003cbr data-start=\"1434\" data-end=\"1437\"\u003eSweet and rich, opening with milk chocolate, honeycomb and buttery notes, intertwined with warm citrus peel and gentle baking spice.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1425\" data-end=\"1607\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1609\" data-end=\"1797\"\u003ePalate:\u003cbr data-start=\"1620\" data-end=\"1623\"\u003eCreamy and layered, the palate shows vanilla fudge, spiced oak and hints of dried ginger, with citrus zest brightening the richer notes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1609\" data-end=\"1797\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1799\" data-end=\"1983\"\u003eFinish:\u003cbr data-start=\"1810\" data-end=\"1813\"\u003eMedium-long and lingering, with honeyed cereal, vibrant citrus peel and a touch of freshly cracked black pepper warming the close. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Sonas Reserves","offers":[{"title":"750ml Bottle","offer_id":45221664161971,"sku":"WHXXXXWS99","price":1299.0,"currency_code":"ZAR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0713\/5195\/9731\/files\/Douse-The-Glim10YOSingleMaltScotchWhisky_WC.jpg?v=1768542740"},{"product_id":"smokehead-terminado-tequila-cask-islay-single-malt","title":"Smokehead Terminado Tequila Cask Islay Single Malt","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"359\" data-end=\"677\"\u003eSmokehead is produced by Ian Macleod Distillers and has built its reputation around bold, heavily peated Islay whisky that deliberately steps away from traditional Scotch presentation. Rather than focusing on distillery heritage or age statements, the brand leans into experimentation and flavour-driven whisky making.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"359\" data-end=\"677\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"679\" data-end=\"1286\"\u003eThe Terminado expression takes classic smoky Islay single malt and finishes it in tequila casks - a relatively new maturation style in Scotch whisky following changes to Scotch Whisky Regulations in recent years. Initially matured in ex-bourbon barrels before spending additional time in tequila-seasoned oak, the whisky combines maritime peat smoke with brighter citrus, pepper and subtle agave character. The result is an unconventional Islay whisky that still retains the core smoky identity associated with the region while introducing a fresher, more vibrant edge.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"679\" data-end=\"1286\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1356\" data-end=\"1425\"\u003eColour:\u003cbr data-start=\"1367\" data-end=\"1370\"\u003eLight amber gold with warm honey and copper highlights.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1356\" data-end=\"1425\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1427\" data-end=\"1701\"\u003eNose:\u003cbr data-start=\"1436\" data-end=\"1439\"\u003eIntense peat smoke rises first, followed by vanilla, burnt sugar and toasted shortbread. Layers of blood orange, lime zest and grilled pineapple bring brightness, while subtle earthy and medicinal Islay notes sit underneath.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1427\" data-end=\"1701\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1703\" data-end=\"2060\"\u003ePalate:\u003cbr data-start=\"1714\" data-end=\"1717\"\u003eBold and smoky on entry, with waves of peat, charred citrus and sweet malt. Notes of toffee, roasted corn, grapefruit and peppery spice develop through the palate, while the tequila cask influence adds a slightly herbal, agave-like freshness that lifts the whisky without overpowering its Islay character.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1703\" data-end=\"2060\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2062\" data-end=\"2235\"\u003eFinish:\u003cbr data-start=\"2073\" data-end=\"2076\"\u003eLong, warming and smoky, with lingering citrus peel, cracked black pepper and soft sweetness carrying through the finish.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wine-of-the-Month Club","offers":[{"title":"750ml Bottle","offer_id":45301433008307,"sku":"WHNV22WS63","price":970.0,"currency_code":"ZAR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0713\/5195\/9731\/files\/SmokeheadTerminadoTequilaCaskIslaySingleMalt.jpg?v=1771837978"},{"product_id":"loch-lomond-grainstorm-unpeated","title":"Loch Lomond Grainstorm Unpeated","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"355\" data-end=\"763\"\u003eProduced at the Loch Lomond Distillery in the Scottish Highlands, Grainstorm Unpeated showcases the distillery’s innovative approach to whisky-making while remaining grounded in traditional Scottish craftsmanship. Loch Lomond is one of the few distilleries in Scotland capable of producing both grain and malt whisky on the same site, giving the team exceptional flexibility in style and flavour development.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"355\" data-end=\"763\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"765\" data-end=\"1141\"\u003eGrainstorm Unpeated focuses on a lighter, fruit-forward style of whisky, distilled without peat influence to highlight purity, texture and oak character. Matured in American oak casks and bottled at 46% ABV, the whisky balances smooth vanilla sweetness with gentle spice and fresh orchard fruit notes. Non-chill filtration helps retain body and natural character in the glass.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"765\" data-end=\"1141\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1143\" data-end=\"1307\"\u003eThe result is an accessible yet layered whisky that appeals to both newcomers to Scotch and seasoned whisky drinkers looking for a softer Highland grain expression.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1143\" data-end=\"1307\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1422\" data-end=\"1488\"\u003eAppearance:\u003cbr data-start=\"1437\" data-end=\"1440\"\u003eBright golden amber with clear honey highlights.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1422\" data-end=\"1488\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1490\" data-end=\"1613\"\u003eNose:\u003cbr data-start=\"1499\" data-end=\"1502\"\u003eAromas of vanilla pod, ripe pear and baked apple lead into notes of honey, citrus peel and lightly toasted oak.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1490\" data-end=\"1613\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1615\" data-end=\"1871\"\u003ePalate:\u003cbr data-start=\"1626\" data-end=\"1629\"\u003eSmooth and creamy, showing flavours of caramel, vanilla fudge and soft orchard fruit layered with gentle baking spice and subtle oak richness. The whisky carries a rounded texture while maintaining freshness and balance throughout the palate.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1615\" data-end=\"1871\"\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1873\" data-end=\"1976\"\u003eFinish:\u003cbr data-start=\"1884\" data-end=\"1887\"\u003eMedium in length, clean and warming, with lingering vanilla sweetness and delicate spice.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Wine-of-the-Month Club","offers":[{"title":"750ml Bottle","offer_id":45301433925811,"sku":"WHNV22WS64","price":424.0,"currency_code":"ZAR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0713\/5195\/9731\/files\/LochLomondGrainstormUnpeated.jpg?v=1771837882"},{"product_id":"loch-lomond-12yr-louis-oosthuizen","title":"Loch Lomond 12yr Louis Oosthuizen","description":"","brand":"Wine-of-the-Month Club","offers":[{"title":"750ml Bottle","offer_id":45301434941619,"sku":"WHNV22WS65","price":849.0,"currency_code":"ZAR","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0713\/5195\/9731\/files\/LochLomond12yrLouisOosthuizen.jpg?v=1771836935"}],"url":"https:\/\/www.wineofthemonth.co.za\/collections\/whiskies-with-serious-character.oembed","provider":"Wine of the Month","version":"1.0","type":"link"}