In every issue of Whisky Advocate, we recommend three whiskies that are generally limited releases and show the most potential to gain value. For Fall 2023, the top choices came from Scotland and the United States.
97 Royal Salute The Coronation of King Charles III Blended Scotch, 52.3%, $25,000
A blend of 53 rare malt and grain whiskies, the nose has dark sherry, leather, black truffle-aged balsamic vinegar, roasted chestnut, Brazil nut, sticky toffee pudding, dark chocolate, toasted wood spices, and red velvet cake. Baked plum, strawberry jam, dark syrup, and peppercorn, with a leathery midsection, then fig, chocolate-coated ginger cookies, praline, and chestnut on the palate. The oily finish offers nutmeg, cinnamon, dried fig, and walnut. (500 bottles, 56 for the U.S.)
96 Wild Turkey Master’s Keep Voyage Bourbon, 53%, $275
The first rum cask-finished expression in Wild Turkey’s history, done in collaboration with Jamaica’s Appleton Estate. An alluring nose of vanilla, cinnamon, dried herbs, bitter chocolate, rickhouse, and red berries. Stupendous on the palate, with rich chocolate, herbal notes, brown sugar, honey, cherry, and peppery spice. With water it sweetens, bringing notes of almond, sweetened iced tea, and chocolate. Balanced and mellow, with a long finish of tobacco leaf, mellow spice, and rich chocolate.
95 Gordon & MacPhail 63 year old Mr. George Legacy Glen Grant 1959 Blended Scotch, 56.5%, $8,500
A nose of fragrant spices, apple, citrus and banana peels, and hay. The flavors revel in honey and buttery notes, like a sauternes wine, before pepper, dried chile, Seville orange, crème brûlée, and tropical fruits emerge. Orchard fruits and lemon on the long, velvety finish. (368 bottles, 22 for the U.S.)
