Diageo Special Releases

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  Benrinnes Special Release 2024 Grand Crescendo 21 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky 55.4%

  Item no.: 055333-9968

  Diageo rarely let Benrinnes stand in the spotlight. The distillery is a workhorse whose spirit normally vanishes into large blends. Once in a while it is allowed to step forward alone — and then something like Grand Crescendo appears.

  The expert's description

  Benrinnes Special Release 2024 Grand Crescendo 21 years is a Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky matured in refill casks and wine casks and bottled at 55.4 % cask strength.

  The whisky first rested for eight years in refill casks and then spent thirteen years in a second maturation in American and European oak wine casks and rejuvenated casks with freshly charred ends. That is an unusually long second phase, and it explains the depth of the whisky.

  Grand Crescendo is one of eight bottlings in Diageo's Special Releases 2024. Each year the range gathers single malts from the group's distilleries in unconventional cask combinations, released in limited numbers and in that one year only.

  Tasting notes

  Nose

  Ripe dark fruit, stewed pear and caramelised apple. Beneath the fruit sit sweet spices, vanilla and a hint of cinnamon and dried fig.

  Palate

  Powerful and complex with dark chocolate, candied citrus and a lightly smoky edge from the freshly charred cask ends. The 55.4 % brings intensity, but the balance holds.

  Finish

  Long and elegant with spice, sweetness and a dry oak edge that lingers.

  Specifications

  Name: Benrinnes Special Release 2024 Grand Crescendo 21 years old Single Malt Scotch Whisky 55.4%
  Distillery: Benrinnes
  Region/Country: Speyside, Scotland
  Type: Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky
  Age: 21 years
  ABV: 55.4 %
  Size: 70 CL
  Cask type: Refill casks followed by American and European wine casks and rejuvenated casks with charred ends
  Bottled: 2024
  Edition: Special Release 2024
  EAN no.: 5000281076362

  Flavour profile

  Cask strength · Ripe fruit · Spicy · Dark chocolate · Wine cask

  Investment potential

  High: Special Releases appear in a single year and never return. A 21 year old Benrinnes from Diageo is unusual in itself, since the distillery's spirit normally goes into blends. The range has historically been among the most sought after by collectors.

  Did you know?

  Benrinnes sits 200 metres above sea level on the slope of Ben Rinnes, and the distillery still draws its water from springs on the same mountain. The original 1826 site was washed away by a flood in 1829.

  See our full range of Benrinnes

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  • 1pcs.
    562,75EUR
• 

  Cardhu 14 years old Special Release 2021 Single Malt Scotch Whisky 55,5%

  Item no.: 22227865471-305-767860

  Distillery: CardhuAge: 14 years Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky Cask number/type: Wine Cask Finish Alc. strength: 55,5 % 70 cl. Other: The Scarlet Blossoms of Black Rock - Special Release 2021

  • 1pcs.
    164,75EUR
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  Lagavulin Special Release 2024 Fireside Tales 12 year old Single Islay Malt Scotch Whisky 57,4%

  Item no.: 055333-9965

  Lagavulin Special Release 2024 Fireside Tales 12 Year Old Single Islay Malt Scotch Whisky 57.4%
  
  Lagavulin Special Release 2024 Single Malt Scotch Whisky is bottled at natural cask strength. Known for its smoky profile, Lagavulin Fireside Tales is a 12-year-old whisky that captures the distillery’s rich character. With an alcohol strength of 57.4%, this is a bold, smoky expression of Lagavulin with delicious notes of campfire smoke and sweetness from the Bourbon cask.

  Distillery: Lagavulin
  Name: Special Release 2024 Fireside Tales
  Age: 12 years
  Country: Scotland
  Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky
  Cask type: First fill Ex-Bourbon & Refill Casks
  Alcohol: 57.4%
  70 cl
  Other: Natural Cask Strength – see all our Lagavulin bottlings here
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  • 1pcs.
    214,25EUR
• 

  Mortlach Special Release 2023 The Katanas Edge Single Malt Scotch Whisky 70 cl 58%

  Item no.: 055333-9967-2

  Mortlach Special Release 2023 "The Katana's Edge" is a powerful and elegant single malt whisky with an alcohol strength of 58%. This edition is part of Diageo's Special Releases 2023 and is inspired by Japanese culture. The whisky is finished in a combination of Japanese ex-Kanosuke whisky casks and ex-Pinot Noir casks, resulting in a unique flavor profile with notes of ripe melon, pear, and spicy umami. The finish is long and complex, with a delicate sweetness and a lingering spicy aftertaste. A perfect balance between traditional Mortlach character and Japanese influence, designed to impress both collectors and whisky enthusiasts.

  Distillery: Mortlach
  Name: Special Release 2023
  Age: N/A
  Country: Scotland
  Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky
  Cask Type: Ex-Kanosuke & Ex-Pinot Noir
  ABV: 58%
  70 cl
  Other: Natural Cask Strength – See our selection of Mortlach here

  • 1pcs.
    355,00EUR
• 

  Oban 11 years old Special Release 2023 Single Malt Scotch Whisky 70 cl 58%

  Item no.: 059763-615-884

  Distillery: Oban
  Name: The Soul of Calpyso
  Age: 11 years old
  Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky
  Cask number/type: Caribbean Pot Still Rum Casks
  Alc. strength: 58 %
  70 cl.
  Other: Special Release 2023

  • 1pcs.
    194,25EUR
• 

  Oban Special Release 2024 Coastel Orchard 10 year old Single Malt Scotch Whisky 58%

  Item no.: 055333-9963

  Oban Special Release 2024 Coastal Orchard 10 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky 70 cl 58%
  
  Oban "Coastal Orchard" refers to a fruit orchard located near the coast or along a shoreline. This term suggests a harmonious connection between the sea and fruit cultivation, evoking the impression of fresh and salty sea air that influences the flavor of the fruits. In the context of whisky, "Coastal Orchard" can also describe complex aromas and flavor notes reminiscent of fruit and maritime elements.
  
  The Oban distillery, located on the Scottish west coast, is an excellent example of how the sea can influence whisky flavor. Oban is known for its rich and fruity whiskies, often featuring notes of citrus, apple, and a subtle smokiness, creating a perfect balance between sweetness and sea breeze.
  
  Distillery: Oban Distillery  
  Name: Special Release 2024  
  Age: 10 years  
  Country: Scotland  
  Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky  
  Cask Number/Type: American Oak + Seasoned Oloroso Sherry casks  
  Alc. Strength: 58%  
  70 cl.  
  Other: Natural Cask Strength
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  • 1pcs.
    154,00EUR
• 

  Oban Special Releases 2025 Heart of the Harbour 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky 70 cl 54.7%

  Item no.: 055333-9910

  Oban Special Releases 2025 Heart of the Harbour 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky 70 cl 54.7%

  Oban Special Release 2025 Heart of the Harbour is a classic 12-year-old Oban, matured exclusively in American oak ex-bourbon casks. This gives a clean and full-bodied style with emphasis on the malt’s fruitiness and the cask’s vanilla character.

  Oban 12 Year Old Special Release 2025 is an exclusive single malt from the legendary Oban Distillery, bottled at natural cask strength and part of Diageo’s sought-after Special Releases series. This Highland whisky offers a complex and maritime flavour profile, ideal for collectors and enthusiasts.

  The nose opens with sea salt, fresh breeze and a hint of dried seaweed, balanced by green apples, pear and soft vanilla from the oak. On the palate, you’ll find smooth malt sweetness, baked apple, toffee and subtle wood spice. The signature sea breeze and gentle smoke linger in the background, rounded off with a touch of pepper.

  The finish is warm and medium-long with notes of oak, fruit and a whisper of smoke. Best enjoyed neat for full flavour depth, or with a few drops of water to highlight citrus and spice.

  Distillery: Oban Distillery  
  Name: Special Release 2025  
  Age: 12 years  
  Country: Scotland  
  Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky  
  Cask Number/Type: American Oak 
  Alc. Strength: 54,7%  
  70 cl.  
  Other: Natural Cask Strength
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  • 1pcs.
    160,75EUR
• 

  Roseisle 14 Year Old Special Release 2025 Harmonic Grace Single Malt Scotch Whisky 55.9%

  Item no.: 055333-9977

  Roseisle 14 Year Old Special Release 2025 Harmonic Grace Single Malt Scotch Whisky 55.9%

  Roseisle 14 Year Old – Harmonic Grace is a modern and refined single malt that showcases the young distillery’s ability to craft complex and balanced whisky. As part of Diageo’s Special Releases 2025 series, this 14-year-old edition presents a fresh and elegant profile where green and fruity notes take center stage. It is matured in a combination of different cask types, adding depth and nuance to both aroma and taste.

  The nose opens with vibrant freshness – green apples, fresh herbs, and a touch of citrus create a bright and inviting aroma. Beneath the green notes lies a hint of honey and nuts, adding warmth and complexity.

  The palate is harmonious and well-balanced with notes of pear, vanilla, and fresh grassy tones that offer a natural and light expression. Almond and a subtle floral character complete the profile, adding an elegant touch that makes the whisky both accessible and intriguing.

  The finish is medium-long with a fresh, nutty tone that transitions into a soft, fruity conclusion. Roseisle Harmonic Grace is an ideal choice for those seeking a modern single malt with finesse, freshness, and a clear identity – a whisky to enjoy neat and explore in depth.

  Distillery: Roseisle Distillery
  Name: Special Release 2025
  Age: 14 years
  Country: Scotland
  Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky
  Cask type: Various casks
  Alcohol: 55.9%
  70 cl
  Other: Natural Cask Strength
  Podcast:

   

  • 1pcs.
    187,50EUR
• 

  Roseisle Special Release 2024 Origami Kite 2 Single Malt Scotch Whisky 12 year old 55,6%

  Item no.: 055333-9964

  Roseisle Special Release 2024 Origami Kite 2 Single Malt Scotch Whisky 12 years 70 cl 55.6%
  
  This edition is a tribute to the modern Roseisle distillery, and its name, Origami Kite, symbolizes the artistic and precise approach to whisky making.
  
  The whisky is characterized by its rich and complex profile with notes of ripe fruit, vanilla, and lightly spiced oak. There is a subtle sweetness from honey and caramel, balanced by delicate and light spice notes. The finish is long and smooth, with hints of dark chocolate and a touch of pepper, providing a harmonious and satisfying conclusion.
  
  Distillery: Roseisle Distillery  
  Name: Special Release 2024  
  Age: 12 years  
  Country: Scotland  
  Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky  
  Cask number/type: First fill Bourbon & Refill Casks  
  ABV: 55.6%  
  70 cl  
  Other: Natural Cask Strength
  Podcast:  

   

  • 1pcs.
    201,00EUR
• 

  Singleton of Glen Ord 17 Year Old Special Release 2025 Into the Blue Single Malt Scotch Whisky 55.5%

  Item no.: 055333-9988

  Singleton of Glen Ord 17 Year Old Special Release 2025 Into the Blue Single Malt Scotch Whisky 55.5%

  Singleton of Glen Ord 17 Year Old "Into the Blue" is a bold and imaginative single malt that explores new territories while preserving its Highland identity. As part of Diageo's Special Releases 2025, this edition showcases the distillery's adventurous spirit through an unusual maturation process that includes ex-Mezcal casks and second-fill ex-Sherry casks. The result is a whisky where sweetness, spice, and a touch of smoke merge into a rich and layered experience.

  The nose immediately reveals a vibrant and fruity character. Dried apricot, caramel, and vanilla rise from the glass, creating warmth and depth. A subtle hint of agave and smoke from the Mezcal cask adds an exotic edge and hints at the complexity to come.

  The palate is round and creamy with layers of tropical fruit, roasted nuts, and spiced honey. The Mezcal influence brings a delicate, smoky minerality that enhances the texture, while the sherry cask adds richness and a soft sweetness that balances the spice.

  The finish is long and intricate with lingering notes of spice, nutty undertones, and a touch of toasted oak. It is a whisky that invites reflection and rewards curiosity, offering new nuances with every sip.

  Distillery: Glen Ord Distillery
  Name: Special Release 2025
  Age: 17 years
  Country: Scotland
  Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky
  Cask type: Mezcal + Ex-Sherry
  Alcohol: 55.5%
  70 cl
  Other: Natural Cask Strength
  Podcast:

   

  • 1pcs.
    214,25EUR
• 

  Singleton of Glen Ord Special Release 2024 Autumn Walk 14 year old Single Malt Scotch Whisky 54,7%

  Item no.: 055333-9966

  Singleton of Glen Ord Special Release 2024, titled "Autumn Walk," is a 14-year-old single malt Scotch whisky, bottled at natural cask strength of 54.7%. This whisky offers a rich, layered flavor profile inspired by the essence of autumn. Expect a nose filled with orchard fruits, such as ripe apples and pears, mingling with warm spices and subtle hints of honey. 
  
  On the palate, the whisky delivers a smooth, velvety texture, combining flavors of caramelized nuts, baked apples, and cinnamon. The finish is long and warming, with lingering notes of sweet malt, dried fruits, and gentle oak, making it a perfect choice for autumn sipping.
  
  Distillery: Glen Ord (Singleton of Glen Ord) 
  Name: Special Release 2024 Autumn Walk  
  Age: 14 years  
  Country: Scotland  
  Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky  
  Cask type: Combination of Refill and First Fill Casks  
  ABV: 54.7%  
  Size: 70 cl  
  Other: Natural Cask Strength
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  • 1pcs.
    201,00EUR
• 

  Talisker Special Release 2020 8 years old Single Malt Whisky Skye 70 cl 57,9%

  Item no.: 22227865304-199906

  Talisker had never used rum casks before 2020. Then came Special Release 2020, and suddenly the distillery's salty, peppery backbone found itself sharing space with demerara sugar and tropical fruit from the Caribbean - a combination never seen before or since.

  Expert Description

  Talisker Special Release 2020 8 Year Old is an Isle of Skye Single Malt Scotch Whisky, finished in ex-rum casks from the Caribbean and bottled at a natural cask strength of 57.9%. It belongs to the "Rare by Nature" collection, Diageo's 2020 Special Releases, and marked the first time the distillery used rum casks for a finish.

  The young age lets Talisker's raw, maritime character stand right at the front, while the rum casks add a sweeter, more tropical layer on top. The colour is gold with a faint greenish tinge, and at just 8 years old this whisky shows the distillery's power without the polish that older releases can carry.

  Tasting Notes

  Nose

  The nose offers sweet, maritime salt, molasses and dried seaweed, with notes of demerara sugar and tropical fruit from the rum casks. Underneath sits a smoky base with a trace of charred meat and white pepper.

  Palate

  The palate is soft and full with an explosion of salted caramel, quickly followed by Talisker's trademark pepper. Banana, coconut and sugar cane from the rum casks bring a sweetness that balances the drying, spicy finish.

  Finish

  The finish is long and evolves with mint, burnt caramel and a lightly bitter cocoa note, while the pepper lingers.

  Specifications

  Name: Special Release 2020
  Distillery: Talisker
  Region/Country: Isle of Skye, Scotland
  Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky
  Age: 8 years
  ABV: 57.9%
  Size: 70 CL
  Cask type: Finished in ex-rum casks from the Caribbean
  Non-chill filtered: Yes
  Natural colour: Yes
  Distillation method: Double distilled
  Distilled: 2011
  Edition: Special Releases 2020 - Rare by Nature
  EAN no.: 5000281063461

  Flavour Profile

  Peated · Maritime · Sweet · Spicy · Tropical

  Investment Potential

  High - a discontinued 2020 vintage that was Talisker's first ever rum cask finish, and this kind of first-of-its-kind release tends to gain the most value on the secondary market.

  Did You Know?

  Special Release 2020 marked the first time in Talisker's history that the distillery used rum casks for a finish - something never seen before and never repeated since.

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  • 1pcs.
    134,00EUR
• 

  Talisker Special Release 2022 Whisky 11 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky 70 cl 55.1%

  Item no.: 035689-9321

  Skye rarely goes gentle in November, and Talisker built its 11 Year Old Special Release 2022 for exactly that kind of weather - cask strength, younger and rawer than its older siblings, but carrying every bit of the smoke and salt the island is known for.

  Expert Description

  Talisker 11 Year Old Special Release 2022 is an Isle of Skye Single Malt Scotch Whisky, matured across a mix of American and European oak casks and bottled at a natural cask strength of 55.1%. It belongs to Diageo's annual Special Releases programme, in which distilleries such as Talisker, Lagavulin and Mortlach each contribute an expression that steps outside the core range.

  The oak brings a double layer of sweetness and tannin, while the younger age keeps Talisker's trademark pepper and smoke sharp and direct. This is the distillery showing its rawer side rather than its polished one, built for an evening that calls for a bit more intensity in the glass.

  Tasting Notes

  Nose

  The nose opens with salty sea air and peat smoke, quickly followed by citrus oil and a touch of mint. Underneath sit vanilla, green apple and toasted oak, and the high strength lifts the aromas without turning sharp.

  Palate

  The palate is rich and lively, with seaweed, sea spray and fresh lemon sitting alongside ripe fruit and vanilla. Talisker's pepper arrives quickly and builds into a chilli kick, while the casks add sweetness and a light oak bitterness underneath it all.

  Finish

  The finish is long and warm, with smoke, pepper and a salty minerality that lingers well after the last sip.

  Specifications

  Name: Special Release 2022
  Distillery: Talisker
  Region/Country: Isle of Skye, Scotland
  Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky
  Age: 11 years
  ABV: 55.1%
  Size: 70 CL
  Cask type: 1st fill bourbon casks, finished in wine casks
  Non-chill filtered: Yes
  Natural colour: Yes
  Distillation method: Double distilled
  Edition: Special Releases 2022
  EAN no.: 5000281071053

  Flavour Profile

  Peated · Peppery · Maritime · Citrusy · Full-bodied

  Investment Potential

  Medium - an annual, limited Special Release from Diageo that has historically grown in demand among collectors once a vintage sells out.

  Did You Know?

  Diageo's Special Releases programme dates back to the early 2000s and gives its distilleries room to experiment with cask types and ages that never make it into the permanent range.

  See our full range of Talisker

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  • 1pcs.
    160,75EUR
• 

  Talisker Special Release 2025 Molten Seas 14 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky 70 cl 53.9%

  Item no.: 055333-9914

  Skye still has cliffs of basalt that were once molten lava. Talisker took exactly those rocks and used them to toast the casks its 14 year old Molten Seas spent its final months in - a whisky that quite literally carries the island's volcanic past forward.

  Expert Description

  Talisker Special Release 2025 Molten Seas 14 Year Old is an Isle of Skye Single Malt Scotch Whisky, first matured in ex-bourbon casks and then finished in new American oak toasted with heat from volcanic basalt rock from Skye, bottled at a natural cask strength of 53.9%.

  The toasting is done by heating the rocks to around 2000 degrees and placing them over the casks, giving the wood a deeper caramelisation than standard toasting achieves. The result keeps Talisker's maritime core intact while adding an extra layer of warmth and wood sweetness from the unusual cask treatment.

  Tasting Notes

  Nose

  The nose is mellow and forward with a dry edge, a light prickle and maritime, mineral notes. With a little air it turns fruitier with a hint of white grape, while a vegetal note of parsnip appears in the background.

  Palate

  The palate is creamy in texture and pleasingly mellow, yet distinctly sweet and salty at the same time. The pepper builds in a controlled way, with a trace of smoky peat sitting underneath it all.

  Finish

  The finish is long and drying, with a light peppery edge and a faint smoky peat that lingers.

  Specifications

  Name: Special Release 2025 Molten Seas
  Distillery: Talisker
  Region/Country: Isle of Skye, Scotland
  Type: Single Malt Scotch Whisky
  Age: 14 years
  ABV: 53.9%
  Size: 70 CL
  Cask type: Ex-bourbon casks, finished in new American oak toasted with volcanic rock
  Non-chill filtered: Yes
  Natural colour: Yes
  Distillation method: Double distilled
  Edition: Special Releases 2025 - Molten Seas
  EAN no.: 5000281080222

  Flavour Profile

  Peated · Maritime · Spicy · Creamy · Mineral

  Investment Potential

  Medium - a brand new vintage in Diageo's Special Releases series, where earlier Talisker releases have typically gained interest among collectors once they sell out.

  Did You Know?

  The casks for Molten Seas are toasted by placing them over a cage of super-heated basalt rock from a quarry on Skye - a technique never previously used for a Talisker release.

  See our full range of Talisker

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  • 1pcs.
    187,50EUR
• 

  Teaninich 8 Year Old Special Release 2025 Rye Rebel Single Grain Scotch Whisky 60.3%

  Item no.: 055333-9916

  Rye inside a Scottish still house. It sounds like something went wrong, but at Teaninich in Alness it was entirely deliberate. Back in 2016 they mashed rye alongside barley, ran it through the plant and put it away in ex-bourbon casks. Then eight years passed before anyone was told what was sitting there.

  The Expert's Description

  Teaninich 8 Years Old Special Release 2025 Rye Rebel is a Single Grain Scotch Whisky matured in ex-bourbon casks and bottled at 60.3% cask strength. It is the only bottling in Diageo's Special Releases 2025 collection, Horizons Unbound, that is not a Single Malt Whisky, and the first whisky built around rye that Teaninich has ever let out of the door.

  Because the mash carries malted rye as well as malted barley, the whisky cannot be called Single Malt. It is Single Grain: one grain beyond barley, one distillery. Ex-bourbon casks were chosen because they give vanilla and coconut without drowning the dry peppery edge of the rye. The result tastes more American in the middle than at the edges.

  Teaninich was founded in 1817 by Hugh Munro and is now Diageo’s third largest malt distillery. Most of what it makes disappears into large blends such as Johnnie Walker Red Label, which is exactly why a bottling under the distillery’s own name is unusual. Rye Rebel also carries the name Daring Rye in some markets.

  Tasting Notes

  Nose

  Fresh rye bread crust and dried dill meet vanilla and coconut macaroon from the bourbon wood. Underneath sit honey, white pepper and a faintly resinous note you rarely find in Scottish malt whisky. At 60.3% it is forceful; a little water brings out lemon peel and cinnamon sugar.

  Palate

  The rye takes charge immediately: dry, peppery, almost green. Then the bourbon cask arrives with vanilla, caramel and baked corn, and the two pull in opposite directions in a way that keeps your mouth awake. The texture is oily and fills out well. The alcohol is obvious but it pushes rather than burns.

  Finish

  Medium length and dry. Pepper, oak and a last rye note that grips the tongue lightly. A trace of aniseed right at the end.

  Specifications

  Name: Teaninich 8 Years Old Special Release 2025 Rye Rebel Single Grain Scotch Whisky 60.3%
  Distillery: Teaninich
  Bottler: Diageo
  Region/Country: Highland, Scotland
  Type: Single Grain Scotch Whisky
  Age: 8 years
  ABV: 60.3%
  Size: 70 CL
  Cask type: Ex-bourbon casks
  Non-chill filtered: Yes
  Distilled: 2016
  Edition: Special Releases 2025 Horizons Unbound

  Flavour Profile

  Spiced · Dry · Peppery · Vanilla · Cask Strength · Grain Forward

  Did You Know?

  Teaninich runs the only mash filter in operation at a Scottish malt distillery. Instead of a traditional mash tun the wort is pressed through filter plates, producing unusually clear wort, and clear wort tends to give a light, grassy, almost fruity spirit. That is also why the rye can push through so plainly here.

  See our full range of Teaninich
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  • 1pcs.
    107,00EUR