Faultline 10 Year Old North Highland Single Barrel 100 Proof Single Malt Whisky 750ml

In a single malt market where "value" is becoming a loosely defined word, we at K&L are working harder than ever to find new and interesting whiskies that everyone can enjoy. While many of our exclusive Scotland casks can be quite pricy due to the scarcity, age, and the high alcohol percentage, David and I really wanted to find a few great options that came in well under $75. Part of the problem, however, is that even young whiskies from single barrels are expensive, which is why we often opt for the older ones. It was David OG's intuition, however, that took us outside of Glasgow to a small producer's warehouse full of great whiskies at remarkable prices. Inside this tiny storage unit was a refill-sherry butt full of classically flavored malt from one of the Highland's most distinguished distilleries--one from which we practically never see independent offerings. After tasting the whisky, we were very impressed, but we felt that, at cask strength, the alcohol simply overpowered the flavor. A few drops of water really mellowed out the heat, bringing forward the fruit and highlighting the grain. The whisky is perfect at 100 proof. The nose offers fresh stone fruit and light vanilla, the palate is deceptively rich with a faint oiliness and incredibly subtle sherry tones that masterfully tame its youthful vigor. What we have here is good old-fashioned Scotch for people who like great whisky at a great price--exactly what the Faultline label is all about. (David Driscoll, K&L)