The Forbes list of the most expensive whiskies in the world consists of brews that are literally worth more than their weight in gold. However most of them are collector’s items and are not available easily enough. For the true whisky lover there are some prize brews that one can lay their hands on (if one has deep enough pockets) that are truly a must-have. Here is a look at three such whiskeys that the rich and famous covet.
THE BON BOURBON
Bourbon the traditional American corn whiskey named after the Bourbon County in Kentucky is one of the best forms of whiskies today. But you haven’t tasted good bourbon until you have tried the small batch offering of the Jim Beam distillery – Booker’s Bourbon. This is the only uncut, unfiltered, straight-from-the-barrel; connoisseur's sipping bourbon available today. It's bottled at its natural proof of between 121 and 127, and aged between six and eight years. Booker Noe, the famous Jim Beam's grandson and master distiller emeritus, hand selects each barrel that will become Booker's Bourbon. Originally Noe had intended this special bourbon only for friends but later it was made available to the larger public. Each barrel that will become Booker's bourbon is aged in the very center of the rack house where the temperature and humidity combines in the perfect proportion for the finest bourbon. This deep, rich amber coloured bourbon has an intense nose with charcoal and oak, but a clear and mellow flavour. It is truly one of the absolute best bourbon available today.
FOR THE SINGLE MALT LOVERS
The purist whiskey lover will want his Single Malt Scotch - distilled using malted barley and the unique water of Scotland – this is a type of whiskey that has captured the imagination of generations of tipplers. A single malt is distinct because it is the product of a single distillery whereas blended scotch uses whiskeys from different distilleries. Choosing a great singe malt scotch is a formidable task. However you cannot go very wrong if you choose the Macallan. In 2007, a bottle of 1926 vintage The Macallan was sold at a Christie’s auction for $54,000, making it one of the most expensive bottles of liquor ever sold! They teamed up with Lalique - the famed crystal makers from France to present their range of 50 year old single malts – in true designer decanters that are objets d’art by themselves.
A NOTCH UP WITH THE SCOTCH
Completing the list of great whiskeys is the favourite drink of none other than Winston Churchill himself – the Hanky Bannister blended scotch. One of the best offerings from this distillery is their 40 year old blend. With its seductive aroma and tantalising flavours, Hankey Bannister 40 Years Old’s intricate blend contains extraordinary and unusual whiskies, such as Garnheath, Killyloch and Glenflager whose distilleries are now no more. Originally blended in 1966, matured in Spanish oak casks, the spirit’s rarity has been reflected in its luxurious packaging, consisting of a striking Glencairn crystal decanter with two bespoke Glencairn glasses in a rich chocolate-brown leatherette box – the ultimate keepsake for discerning whisky lovers. Casks of the precious 40-year-old Hankey Bannister were found nestled within one of its warehouses by Master Blender, Stuart Harvey, who immediately recognised them as containing some of the world’s most coveted whiskies from forgotten Scottish distilleries mentioned earlier. Thus a limited release of the unique dram was arranged, with a one-off special bottling
commemorating the 250th anniversary of this special brand.