2 Blends 1 Parcel

For whisky lovers, each bottle tells a story, each sip a journey. Today, we take you on a whirlwind tour of three incredible Scotch whiskies that will capture your palate and imagination: That Boutique-y Whisky Company’s McKalllaster, Solara from Speyside, and Parcel No. 12 from Royal Brackla. Each unique, each masterfully crafted, and each a testament to the rich whisky heritage of Scotland.

That Boutique-y Whisky Company - The McKalllaster

“You come to Scotland, yer getting battered!” Or so says Allaster McKalllaster, beloved for his unapologetically hilarious and often “unbiased” commentary on Scottish football. While his advice holds for rowdy football matches, it doesn’t apply to barley! Instead, when Scots set eyes on barley, they don’t batter it; they distil it into fine whisky. That’s exactly what happened with That Boutique-y Whisky Company’s latest collaboration with McKallaster, launched just in time for the Euros.

This special-edition blended Scotch whisky is as Scottish as it gets. Rumour has it that it spent some time in a European oak cask before bottling, giving it a complex character. With only 304 bottles in circulation, it’s as exclusive as it is flavourful.

A fresh and zesty combination of orange peels and citrus blossom arouse the nose, with grassy malt underneath digging through. Sweet oaty flapjack with chunks of caramelised apple balance the mouth with a whisper of smoke and hints of new leather. A harmonious blend of toasted oats, caramel, and savoury spice with mellow oak. A very enjoyable blend. 84/100

Solara

Next, we journey to Speyside with the bold and beautifully sherried Solara single malt. Straight from one of Scotland's premier whisky-producing regions, this whisky has been aged to perfection, picking up flavours that feel almost out of this world—hence the astrological imagery on its label. But wait, the name also plays on the solera system, a traditional method used to age sherry. Although these sherry octaves weren’t solera-aged, the influence of oloroso sherry casks is unmistakable.

On the nose we get fresh apples, juicy pears, and buttery pastry mingling with soft peach, creamy vanilla, and mellow oak. Unctuous layers of sticky-sweet sherried oak, creamy caramel, and cooked orchard fruits, with a hint of drying spice. Tannic, leathery oak brings a drying touch, with clove, root ginger, cinder toffee, and chocolate-coated cranberries for a delightful conclusion. A solid Speyside blend. 83/100

Parcel No.12 – Royal Brackla 9yr

Finally, let’s explore the elegance of Parcel No. 12 from Royal Brackla, bottled as part of the Reserve Casks collection by The Single Malts of Scotland. This whisky has spent nine years maturing in a carefully selected batch of six barrels, ensuring a depth of flavour and complexity that only time can provide.

First thing to notice on this is the incredibly light colour, I was not expecting it to be this clear (it comes in a very dark bottle). A delicate dance of floral honey, nougat, and a hint of anise, all rounded off with vanilla shortbread. Buttery shortbread, lemon drizzle, and a gentle cracked peppercorn heat make for a beautifully balanced sip. Subtle notes of red fruits, vanilla cream, and a touch of woody spice leave a lingering warmth. Overall it didn’t impress as much as I thought, still pleasantly enjoyable for me though. 85/100

Final Thoughts: Sipping Scotland

Whether you’re looking to dive into the world of blended Scotch whiskies, discover the sherried delights of Speyside, or appreciate the finesse of Royal Brackla’s single malt, these three whiskies offer an unforgettable tasting experience. Each one tells its own story, crafted with passion and a nod to Scotland's enduring whisky tradition.

So, grab a glass, pour yourself a dram, and enjoy these exquisite whiskies that showcase the brilliance of Scottish craftsmanship. Sláinte!