One of the most iconic bourbon whiskeys of the last 10 years, is world-renowned as a powerhouse barrel-proof that defies the limits of hellish heat. For those with a penchant for fearsome fire, the original is surely the most exceptional that Stagg has released to date, weighing in at a hefty 134.4 proof (Fall, 2013). However, if you consider yourself something of a connoisseur, then perhaps a more balanced bouquet will pique your fancy, such as the Fall, 2015 Batch 5, still no slouch, but with a slightly more robust silhouette that patters faintly with hints of cherry, cinnamon, and rich cocoa.

Whichever side of the coin you land on, no two rankings of Stagg's first 15 batches will be the same, and even after a second tasting, there are no guarantees that your original order would remain untouched. Nevertheless, here is our take on the barrel-proof power rankings - today, ranking Stagg Jr's first 15 batches from best to worst.

Batch 3 (Fall, 2014) – 132.1 Proof

Third time's the charm. For many, Stagg Jr's Batch 3 release in Fall 2014 was the most considered and complete of the initial three and looking back, it is the most exciting and well-rounded fireball of frenzy in their catalog. A truly formidable bourbon whiskey that managed to combine the intense, incredible heat for which Stagg was quickly gaining cult status and acclaim, but with a more refined, subdued bouquet of flavors and a more robust, complex profile. Lashings of cherry were prevalent, not seen before in a Stagg Jr bottle, beautifully balanced by the abundance of sweet vanilla before a mouthfeel reminiscent of buttery silk - there's a good reason why Batch 3 remains a fan favorite among collectors and whiskey buffs.

Batch 2 (Spring, 2014) – 128.7 Proof 

The second coming. The highly anticipated follow-up to Stagg Jr's original release, the 2014 Spring release Batch 2 is perhaps the rarest and most sought-after iteration of all Stagg Jr bottles in circulation. The perfect storm of hot heat, bold flavor, and refined sophistication, Batch 2 is an acclaimed and audacious bourbon whiskey that represents the very very best of Stagg's very best characteristics.

Batch 5 (Fall, 2015) – 129.7 Proof

Batch 5 was a bourbon to fall in love with. Widely regarded as one of Stagg Jr's best releases amongst barrel-proof connoisseurs, Batch 5 is decadent and delicious, imbued with rich cocoa, smooth vanilla and shadows of the inspired cherry, cinnamon, and molasses seen in previous batches. Clove and pepper are present and bring a newfound degree of charisma to the hot, hard-hitting bourbon, while this familiar heat works harmoniously with a complex array of flavors to produce a bourbon that is simply sublime.

Batch 1 (Fall, 2013) – 134.4 Proof

The bottle that started it all, Batch 1 set the tone for every subsequent release, inspiring the robust and rich complexion of Batches 2-15, and sending fans of fiery warmth alight. Unfiltered, uncut, unrelenting. The original, iconic Stagg Jr. and by far the most potent and punchy batch to have been released, Batch 1 is a true tour de force when it comes to heat and firepower, and there is no doubting its impact on the whiskey world since its release - a must-have for those with a passion for innovative Kentucky whiskey.

Batch 8 (Spring, 2017) – 129.5 Proof

Otherworldly oakiness. Another stupendous release from Stagg Jr, Batch 8 is perhaps the most fruity and flavorsome to come from the entire catalog. While the heat is prevalent and captivating (without bordering on the overwhelming), considered allusions to Buffalo Trace's familiar passion fruit, mango and orange notes can be found here, while there is ample sweetness, spice, and a deep, overarching oakiness. Arguably the most interesting and unusual release from Stagg Jr's lengthy portfolio, Batch 8 is a masterpiece of creative, surprising, and inspired whiskey craftsmanship.

Batch 6 (Spring, 2016) – 132.5 Proof

A welcoming punch in the face. Extreme heat and grandiose flavor are the defining characteristics of Stagg Jr's Batch 6 release, a heavyweight that offers exceptional, and almost awakening levels of heat and spice, which somehow manage to avoid overwhelming nuanced hints of sweet cream, toffee, and vanilla. There is something different about the cherry in Batch 6 that sets it apart from the rest, as if it has taken on a candy-like form. This becomes a near perfect foil for the robust and rich body, making for an out-of-body experience-inducing bourbon.

Batch 4 (Spring, 2015) – 132.2 Proof

Assured and astute. By Spring of 2015, Stagg Jr well and truly knew what they were doing and the well-oiled machine began to start producing some of the finest barrel-proof whiskeys in the world - enter Batch 4. Impressively balanced, true to its roots, and beset with a layered sense of spice, succulence, and smoothness, Batch 4 is not to be missed and finishes like it begins, with purpose.

Batch 14 (Summer, 2020) – 130.2 Proof 

Bold, brazen, brilliant. Arguably more balanced and better appointed than the George T. Stagg release of the same year, Stagg Jr's Batch 14 dominates the palate with a punchy proof that's stunningly paired with a rich, molasses-like mouthfeel and understated hints of cherry, vanilla, oak, and brown sugar. A classic Stagg Jr release, and a must-have for collectors of BT's mashbill 1.

Batch 11 (Winter, 2018) – 127.9 Proof

A true winter warmer. The first Stagg Jr. release to coincide with the Winter months, Batch 11 is shaped by the season and is a warming, welcoming bourbon with a sumptuous bite and effervescent, vicious character. Characterized by toffee, maple, and bitter chocolate notes, as well as hints of cola-like molasses, oak, and vanilla, this is one of the most complex and rewarding releases to come out of the Stagg Jr bourbon house.

Batch 10 (Spring, 2018) – 126.4 Proof

Spritely and seductive. One of the lighter and more drinkable Stagg Jr releases, Batch 10 represents a slight departure from the oft 130+ proof recipe which the brand is known for. Uncut, unfiltered, and using the same BT no. 1 mashbill as all previous releases, Batch 10 features brighter cherry and fruit notes and is perhaps more representative of the season in which it was bottled, Spring. A divine barrel-proof bourbon that is still no slouch on heat, for those who have experienced the heavy-hitting power of Stagg, Batch 10 is highly recommended.

Batch 15 (Winter, 2020) – 131.1 Proof

Heavy-hitting and hearty. Another scintillating release from Stagg Jr, Batch 15 is a rich and robust bourbon defined by lush praline and brown sugar, powerful potency on the palate, and a long luscious finish that's beautifully complemented by nuanced orange peel, pepper, and oak notes. Staying true to the recipe that has made Stagg Jr a household name, Batch 15 is not to be missed by collectors and connoisseurs.

Batch 13 (Fall, 2019) – 128.4 Proof

Ruthlessly rich. Instilled with a familiar flavor profile that brings forth exceptional complexity and balance, Batch 13 is one of the most informed and complete Stagg Jr releases and represents the culmination of the rich, sweet and spicy heat for which Stagg has become renowned. A finish that knows no bounds and a subtle smokiness that inspires and tantalizes the palate, Batch 13 is a remarkable release and must-have for collectors.

Batch 12 (Summer, 2019) – 132.3 Proof 

Fiery and fearsome. Oozing with class and charisma, the 12th iteration of Stagg Jr is beset with an impressive and eye-watering heat - clocking in at 132.2 proof the 3rd highest of all Stagg Jr releases thus far. While hot and undoubtedly spicy, it remains true to the beautifully appointed character for which Stagg is lauded.

Batch 9 (Fall, 2017) – 131.9 Proof

Powerful and pronounced. Aged for almost 10 years and bottled at an eye-watering 131.9 proof, Stagg Jr's Batch 9 Barrel Proof bats well above average - boasting sophisticated complexity and unadulterated potency. A heavy hitter with a whole lot of heat, this is one of the great vintage pieces of Buffalo Trace history and a damn fine and damn fiery bourbon whiskey.

Batch 7 (Fall, 2016) – 130.0 Proof

Potent and punchy. Not for the faint-hearted, Stagg Jr's Batch 7 clocks in at a staggering 130 proof and is truly a force to be reckoned with. Barrel-aged for nearly a decade, expect a palate experience like no other, bursting with fiery flavor and a prolonged, pronounced finish.

Welcome to Islay. This small grey, wet magical land is where all of our peated fantasies come true. With nine distilleries and two in planning, Islay is a veritable Disneyland for those hunters of smoke, seaweed, and other rich maritime characters.

Hailing much further south than the rest of the Scottish Isles, Islay enjoys a moderate climate that is the backbone of the region’s terroir. When you drink a classic dram of Lagavulin 16 or Bowmore Darkest, one cannot help but be instantly transported to rocky coasts spotted by lighthouses or walking amongst the green and grey, wellies and all!

Many distilleries like Ardbeg and Bunnahabhain are putting out limited releases sprinkled throughout the year. For those lucky enough to be within driving distance, the limited releases are attainable. But the rest of us can only hope for a few bottles to trickle our direction. 

Taste is subjective. Peat isn’t for everyone. Campfire, leather, and iodine will not bring world peace (well, maybe?). 

But whether you’ve just gotten your 4th Ardbeg tattoo or the thought of peat churns your stomach, some legendary and rare releases can’t be passed up if found in the wild! And really, no collection is complete without ample representation of perhaps the most beloved and hated of all whisky-producing regions!

Searching for Islay whales may cause one to transform into Captain Ahab, willing to risk it all. While attaining these whiskies may not require you to go down with the ship, they will take your hard-earned cash and patience for the long hunt.

Unlike some of its peers, Bowmore is known for smoky yet softer whiskies. This whisky was released in 2017 after 5 decades in a single ex-bourbon hogshead. Bottled at 41.5% ABV, and with only 74 bottles ever produced, it is, without doubt, one of the rarest Bowmore’s ever released.

This 1966 vintage celebrates a special milestone at the Bowmore distillery. It was in the same year that Bowmore bottled its first official single malt. This was the same year that distillery manager Eddie Macaffer joined Bowmore before retiring in 2016.

This collectible comes in an oak case with five hand-laid silver rings at its center. The rings represent each decade the spirit was aged and make for a stunning display of this refined whisky in any collection. 

Should you dare to kill this bottle off you will be in for a rollercoaster ride! Instead of smoke, you get a tropical fruit salad of lychee and pineapple with floral notes and baking spices. It goes down painfully smooth. Each guilty sip will make you feel personally responsible for world deforestation.

You can’t talk about rare Islay whiskies without including those from the legendary Port Ellen Distillery. It was shut down in 1983 but a treasure trove of stock has been stored in a warehouse since, with Diageo tantalizing followers with sporadic and rare releases. 

With each new iteration, the age of the whisky becomes older and the spirit reserves approach nil. Port Ellen 37 Year Old is the 16th release from the closed distillery and it is a massive dram of spice, smoke, leather, and notes of blackcurrant. Bottled at 55.2% ABV, the flavors explode on the palate with moreish notes of citrus and cinnamon and finish with woody, earthy notes and hints of dark chocolate. 

If you see it in your price range, click that buy now button with no remorse!

Another Port Ellen on this list should be no surprise! And while it’s true that in 2017 Diageo announced plans to refurbish and reopen the distillery in the future, those plans have already been delayed. Once again, whisky will be distilled at Port Ellen in the future. But why wait until the 2030s to get your hands on some?

Get used to seeing “product not available” while searching for Port Ellen 40 Year Old 9 Rogue Casks. True to its namesake, this bottling comes from 9 highly unusual and previously rejected casks at the distillery. 

This spirit was bottled at 50.9% ABV and the trademark Port Ellen oiliness is on steroids! A dram full of apricot, honey, and peach with notes of tobacco and leather. The campfire smoke is there, but only just more than a hint. These 9 rogue casks have come together to produce a delicate and refined drink that can be enjoyed by connoisseurs and amateurs alike. 

Hunting for Port Ellen will always reap rewards for those with the right constitution.

Laphroaig proclaims to be the “most richly flavored of all Scotch whiskies” and after sampling a few drams of the 10-year-old cask strength bottling, we are inclined to agree. The distillery practically sits on the sea itself and this maritime influence makes it into every dram produced. 

This rare Laphroaig bottling is the oldest to ever come out of the distillery. A piece of history in itself, the spirit was distilled in 1960 before being bottled in 2000. Initially, 3300 bottles were released and now two decades later, the number of available bottles is surely much lower. 

Laphroaig 40 Year Old is bottled at a “natural cask strength” of 42.4% and gives drinkers a more refined experience than the distillery's young and aggressive 10-year-old variants. Smoke and peat phenols are balanced by green notes of fruit and a surprising mint character. The whisky holds a fat, creamy mouthfeel and finishes with trademark smoke, iodine, and fresh herbal notes. 

A delicious whisky that can be saved for the ultimate occasion, put away as a valuable investment, or the crown of your Laphroaig collection. Pick one of these up while you still can!

Ardbeg is known for putting out some of the most aggressive and in-your-face whiskies in the world, and the Islay distillery has garnered much hype for its highly evolving selection of limited and special releases. 

It was Ardbeg’s Manager’s Choice that vaulted the distillery to the heights of the whisky stratosphere. This is a bottling of whisky distilled in 1976 and 22 years later, distillery manager Stuart Thomson chose a single sherry butt for the exclusive run. The whisky was bottled at 56% ABV in a limited run of just 497 bottles and there are far fewer available today!

Other Ardbeg single cask bottlings would follow but none would garner the attention of the first sherry cask release. Polishing the rough edges of a typical Ardbeg dram, this first release of the Manager’s Choice marries the character of spirit and wood in a perfectly balanced expression. Expect the smoke and tobacco to be turned down while weighed against rich notes of dried fruit.

If you run into one of these highly sought bottles, it’s best to pick it up. Now whether you can resist opening it up right away or not is totally on you!

Revered the world over for their tireless pursuit of quality and excellence when it comes to crafting outstanding Scottish-inspired whisky, Japan has a lengthy history of masterful whisky making with many of the world's best blended and single malt whiskies being produced by the powerhouses of Suntory and Nikka.

As with any whisky that gains such cult status and critical acclaim, certain limited edition bottles become increasingly popular due to their exceptional profiles, the hunger and demand within the market, and the resultant scarcity of availability.

When a bottle begins to move towards this trajectory, it can be said to achieve "unicorn" status, so rare and so sought-after that even seeing them becomes a mythical, otherworldly experience. Below are 5 of the rarest and most sought-after Japanese whiskies in the world, each with its own story and each with an allure and mystique that goes above and beyond the confines of a typical whiskey. If you haven't read our article on the battle between Japanese icons Suntory and Nikka, you can read it here.

Truly formidable, aged gracefully and remarkably rare, Suntory’s Hibiki 30 year old is the cream of the crop. A recipient of “World’s Best Blended Whisky” (at the world whiskies awards in 2007 and 2008), this celebrated and highly coveted Japanese whisky is one of the most enigmatic and elusive drams in the world.

Composed of a mixture of grain and malt whiskies, aged for 30 years and over, this 86 proof Japanese whisky is a testament to the revered quality and peerless dedication to craftsmanship for which Suntory is renowned. A statement piece and collector’s item that will be the center of attention at any dinner party, for those with a penchant for rare, exceptional whisky, the Hibiki 30 is a must-have.

An iconic name in Japanese whisky, revered for its place in the foundations and beginnings of the single malt movement at early Suntory, the Yamazaki represents the height of Japanese whisky craftsmanship and is a testament to the company’s first-ever distillery. 

The 25 Year Old, winner of World's Best Single Malt at the World Whiskey Awards, is a delightful journey that traverses the planes between depth, character and charisma, inviting the taster to experience the true nature of Suntory whisky. Devilishly deep and seductively complex, the Yamazaki 25 year old is one of the rarest modern Japanese whiskies, and with hints of dried fruit, warm marmalade, coffee and almond - it boasts one of the most unique flavor profiles of any whisky, anywhere. 

With only 13 sets ever produced, the Japanese Trees Collection from Karuizawa is perhaps the most exclusive ‘set’ of whiskies anywhere in the world. The set itself presents 3 individual bottles that represent 3 National Treasures of Japan, while the whiskies are undoubtedly treasures that deserve credit beyond recognition for their remarkable craftsmanship and the elegance of their composition. Beautifully appointed and inspired by the nature for which Japan is renowned, for whiskyphiles and lovers of all things Japan, the Karuizawa Japanese Trees Limited Edition Collection is the zenith of sophistication. 

Botted in 2012, the Taketsuru 25 is nothing short of a work of art, combining the outrageously sophisticated aesthetics of Nikka whisky with the unadulterated dedication and propensity for quality for which the Japanese distiller has become renowned. Named after the iconic distiller, Masataka Taketsuru, who holds one of the most revered positions in Japanese whisky-making history - due to his status as a chief component of both Suntory and Nikka - the Taketsuru 25 year old is ingrained in Japanese whisky folklore. Distilled in 1987, this single malt is an apparition for most collectors and connoisseurs, more myth and mystery than an attainable bottle. 

A breathtaking single malt whisky that personifies Masataka Taketsuru’s unique approach to crafting whisky with the meticulous precision of his home, Japan, with the tradition, history, and heritage of Scottish whisky methodology, the Yoichi 20-year-old single malt is one of the rarest and most celebrated Japanese whiskies in circulation. The profile itself is an unfathomable success that blends honey, vanilla, cream, and caramel with rich, spiced fruits, herbal notes, and anise. A complex and considered single malt that requires an experienced palate, for collectors and connoisseurs, the Yoichi 20 is the pinnacle of refined Japanese whisky under 25 years old.

Often overlooked as the ugly sibling of bourbon and American whiskey, Rye once held the hearts of North Americans everywhere, and while Kentucky Bourbon and Tennessee Whiskey are still the kings, Rye is making waves across not just the country, but in whisky circles all around the globe!

Many of the most widely available ryes on the shelves of speakeasies and prohibition-style cocktail bars will feature brands like Rittenhouse or Wild Turkey. Great for mixing or drinking neat, these Kentucky-style rye whiskies are known for their drier, spicier complexion and slightly more peppery profile when compared to many corn-based whiskies. 

Kentucky Rye just about meets the minimum legal requirements of having at least 51% rye in the mash bill, the rest of which can be made up of corn, barley or other grains. However, for the more adventurous, we have classifications for regions and their typical mash bills. There are styles of rye like Monongahela from Pennsylvania (70-100% rye) and Indiana Rye (95%) among others. This is a good thing! Many of us simply cannot get enough rye! 

Rye enthusiasts like ourselves are not satisfied with a Rye whiskey that is nearly half other grains! We want full cinnamon, clove, cardamom, white pepper and a refreshing dryness. We expect that aggressiveness on the palate to be backed up with a massive body and the taste of alcohol on the finish. 

To appease the discerning Rye drinker, many producers of long ago and those today continue to put out these high-rye ryes. These refined libations are from another time. They have turned back the clock on whisky lovers and collectors everywhere.

Because of their aggressive nature, these ryes can be found in limited quantities and typically are not more than seasonal releases or one-offs. Of course, there are always exceptions, producers like the High West Distillery in Park City, Utah have made it their modus operandi to put out big ryes.

Speaking of big ryes, we’re getting thirsty!

According to Redemption’s Master Blender Dave Carpenter, “Rye is the past and future of American whiskey.” Putting those words into action, Redemption has released the ultimate expression of pre-prohibition Rye whiskey for modern times.

Redemption 18 Year Old Rye was distilled in 1998 when the distillery first started production. The 95% rye mash bill was laid to barrel to mature and 18 years later, this dream of rye was packaged at a cask strength of 109 proof with only 600 bottles released!

This whiskey is described as having notes of cedar, dark chocolate, and all the hallmarks of a big rye. Expect a beast on the palate brimming with baking spice, baked apple, peaches, rich caramel, and maple. Let this resurrection of early twentieth-century American rye transport to you back to simpler times. 

Adding this bottle to your collection is a tribute to the American Dream!

Another relative newcomer to whiskey production, WhistlePig Pig was founded in 2007 with the dream to bring back the 10-year-aged rye whiskey. They paired with Master Distiller Dave Pickerell, formerly of Maker’s Mark, and procured some 10-year-old Monogahela style (100% rye) whiskey and the rest is history. 

Continuing their success, they opened the doors to their distillery in Shoreham, Vermont in 2015. Based on a 150-year old dairy farm, there is nothing barnyard in the house flavors of WhistlePig’s rye!

The Boss Hog represents an evolving string of highly limited releases from this elite rye producer. The first of these, Spice Dancer, is a release of “pure barrel strength” straight rye whiskey from 24 of WhistlePig’s oldest and most unique barrels.

This bold rye weighs in at 130 proof. According to the distillery, “nowhere available, is a barrel strength aged rye of the highest-rated rye whiskey around.” 

Expect vanilla and fruit on the nose with musty and funky wood-aged notes. On the palate, you will get the bright character of Whistlepig’s high-rye. It’s almost like biting into cinnamon bark and cloves with a delicious oaky finish of red pepper and dark chocolate. It’s a whiskey and desert in the same glass!

Good luck finding one of these rare initial releases! But if you acquire one and are tempted to get it into your decanter, opening this beautiful rye is a special occasion in itself!

Utah might be one of the last places on earth that one would expect to find high-end whiskey. But being the first legally licensed distillery in the state since the end of American Prohibition, High West has been at the forefront of the resurrection of American rye.

Beginning in 2007, biochemist David Perkins sourced 6-year old rye from MGP and 16-year-old Barton rye for blending in what would become the distillery’s flagship, Rendezvous Rye. More than a decade later High West now puts out core offerings with their own distillate.  

But in 2012, they released the Rock Mountain Rye 16 Year Old. The distillery states that the whiskey was found “quietly aging in a Kentucky warehouse” and that these “incredible whiskeys were destined for blending into Canadian Whiskey… until we sipped them.” 

High West was only able to procure a small number of barrels of this beautiful rye but we are all the better for it. Weighing in at 80% rye with an ABV of 46%, this whiskey explodes with a big rye character but is subdued with a soft finish. The drinker is greeted with fiery cinnamon and baking spices and lifted up with a slightly sweet, vanilla finish. 

Unlike most high-ryes, the Rocky Mountain Rye is more approachable. It’s a sheep in wolf's clothing. Any High West limited release is worth grabbing for any collector or as an investment. But High West released only 1300 bottles of this beast into the wild! This bottle is a must-buy for any lover of rare American whiskey!

Booker Noe was the grandson of Jim Beam and a master distiller for more than 40 years. He is also renowned among connoisseurs for the Beam group’s releases of small-batch bourbons under his namesake. 

Many of these bottlings are beloved by collectors and can be difficult to procure. However, none may be more important than the sole release of Noe’s small-batch rye. Unfortunately, Booker himself would not live to see the day, but the “Big Time Batch '' was released posthumously by the distillery. 

Breaking the bonds of Kentucky traditions at nearly 80% rye, this limited batch has reached mythical status. All sentimentality cast aside, this whisky says “f**k your feelings”. Its alcohol content of 68.1% laughs at all that stands in its way.

Those who dare to try this monster will have their senses assaulted by complex layers of freshly kilned baking spices. It’s Christmas, pepper, wood, citrus and so much more! Dark chocolate and plums and sweet teas on the palate. It finishes with satisfying oak vanillins and mouth-drying tannins before the alcohol warmth takes you to church on Saturday. Only, you actually wanna be there!

But with high-quality rye, it isn’t just about who can make the most noise. In 2017, The Whisky Bible crowned this as the best whiskey in the world. And since then, it became that much harder to get one’s hands on a bottle! Thanks, Jim!

We recently ventured into the heart of Scotland on a journey to encounter and uncover some of the rarest, most enigmatic and hard-to-find single malt Scotch whiskies ever released. Today, we continue that journey, traveling rolling fields of rarity and exploring iconic, one-of-a-kind bottlings from Macallan, Lagavulin, Bowmore and Glenfiddich. Join us as we revel in the finest craftsmanship that Scotland has to offer, and toast a dram to the distillers who have made the fantasies of some become a very happy reality.

The Macallan 1926 Valerio Adami 60 year old

Stumbled upon a bottle of Macallan 1926? Buy yourself a lottery ticket. Macallan's magnum opus, the 1926 60 year old single malt, designed by Valerio Adami is perhaps the rarest whisky in the world, and one that regularly sells for upwards of $1 million when it surfaces for auction. Alongside Michael Dillon's iconic 1926 and Peter Blake's enigmatic version of the same vintage, the Valerio Adami is one of the most eye-catching, emphatic and aesthetic bottlings to ever come out of The Macallan Distillery, with the 1926 60-year-old representing the absolute pinnacle in form and function when it comes to crafting and engineering fine whisky. It is no surprise that the 1926 holds the record for the most expensive whisky ever sold, and holds the next 4 positions on the list of most expensive whiskies.

Lagavulin 37

A distinctive and desirable statement piece that’s testament to Lagavulin’s outstanding reputation for quality, the Lagavulin 37 is one of the most sought-after single malt whiskies of the last 2 decades, and is widely regarded as one of the finest examples of quality craftsmanship in the realm of Scotch whisky. For collectors, connoisseurs and whiskyphiles all over the world, the Lagavulin 37 is one of the most coveted releases, mainly due to the highly limited nature of its bottling. With only 1,868 individually numbered bottles ever released, this is an iteration that will rarely ever see daylight on the market, and its value has only increased since its 2013 release.

Glenmorangie Sauternes 1981

A 1981 release that typifies the quality and complexity of Glenmorangie’s finest exports, the Sauternes Wood Finish 1981 is a legendary bottling which is so rare that it rarely sees the light of day. Matured for 21 years in casks formerly containing sweet wine from Chateau d’Yquem, a formidable Sauternes vineyard, the Glenmorangie Sauternes Wood Finish is one of the foremost examples of wood finish whisky and is today, one of the most sought-after and celebrated released from Glenmorangie. For collectors of the finest, most enigmatic Scotch whisky, this is a must-have for the top shelf.

Macallan Lalique 72

The oldest whisky ever released by Macallan, the Genesis Lalique 72 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky needs no introduction. A celebration of a seminal moment in Macallan’s history, namely the opening of a new Distillery and Visitor Experience, the Genesis Decanter has been designed specifically to mirror the magnificent architecture of the new distillery, and seeks to celebrate the masters of malt, past and present who have shaped and influenced the Macallan throughout its history. As you would expect, a 72 year old single malt Scotch from Macallan has seen eye-watering demand and in turn, seen eye-watering prices for this one-of-a-kind dram, and for collectors and connoisseurs, just setting eyes on this majestic piece of craftsmanship may be enough… But for those with the appetite, hungry for a slice of history and an iconic bottle to add to their collection, the Genesis Lalique 72 is the coup de gras, the holy grail, and the final piece of the puzzle.

Bowmore Black

A 20 year old Scotch whisky, distilled in 1964, there are actually two different iterations of the Bowmore Black, both as rare as one another. The 30 year old is a ridiculously luxurious and sophisticated piece of whisky craftsmanship that is intense and perfectly balanced, while the 42 year old iteration is a sumptuously exotic and remarkably rare dram, that is testament to Bowmore’s ridiculously high standards and peerless pursuit of quality.

Glenfiddich 50

Branded as the Scottish distiller’s “heirloom” release, the Glenfiddich 50 is a powerful and pronounced single malt whisky that represents the culmination of countless years of whisky innovation, dedication and care. A remarkable piece of engineering, presented in one of the most spectacular, sophisticated boxes, the Glenfiddich 50 is a true icon of style and makes for an alluring and audaciously luxurious statement piece for any connoisseur’s collection. A Scotch that has defined the distillery’s approach to curating and crafting whisky with meticulous precision and an almost eye-watering pursuit of quality, this bottle rarely surfaces on the market and when it does, it’s not available for long.

In previous installments of Hunting Unicorns, we've put some of the rarest and most sought-after bourbon and rye whiskeys under the microscope, deep-diving into the nuances and intricacies of each bottle and what makes them so hard to find. Today, we take a different approach, uncorking a few bottles that are arguably rarer than anything we've covered before, a Kentucky-produced silo that's rarely found in America and is scarce all over the globe; enter Blanton's Poland Editions.

An annual "LE" release, and one that represents the zenith of exclusivity, Blanton's Poland Edition is specific to the European nation's M&P Wine and Spirits Festival, made available each year in eye-wateringly limited numbers.

While reserved only for the Polish retail market, these bottles do trickle into markets internationally following their annual release, and as a result of the cap on the number of bottles (which varies between seasons and can be less than 1000), they tend to fetch a pretty penny if and when they do surface.

So are they worth the money? The answer depends on who's asking it. While the Poland Edition doesn't stray too far from the classic, iconically smooth Blanton's Original Single Barrel, there are several points of difference that potentially warrant the heftier price tag.

The profile

Blanton's is notorious for its silky smooth mouthfeel and the almost casual ease with which it drinks. From the first sip, the profile is lavish and languid. It relaxes on the palate and caresses the tastebuds with vanilla, sweet caramel, baking spice, and chewy toffee prominent and pronounced. The same rings true with the Poland 2020 Green Label, yet, there is more energy and gusto to the experience. Here, heat and spice accentuate and elevate the primary flavors, creating a decadence and elegance that is never overbearing and always in tune with the rest of the bourbon. 

The proof

The vibrancy and power of the Poland Edition's profile are multi-faceted, but it largely owes this vitriol to the heightened proof and residual potency that come with these elements. The hum in the finish is something that not many Blanton's bottles possess or achieve (save the precise cutting warmth of the 'SFTB' and 'Gold'), and this aspect of the M&P release makes it all the more outstanding. At 117 proof, or 58.5% alcohol, it is a fearsome beast of a bourbon that punches well above its usual weight and is quite simply more than the sum of its parts.

The prevalence

Or perhaps, the lack thereof. The fact is that the Poland Editions are unicorns. For the everyday bourbon drinker, these are mythical bottles, the absolute precipice of rarity and exclusivity. The 2020 M&P Wine and Spirits Festival 'Special Release' is a remarkably elusive iteration of the Poland Edition silo, with barrels 366, 368, 371, and 376 used in the production. Given that each barrel yields an average of 200 bottles, there were very few bottles released globally, and there are far fewer available today.

To secure your bottle of Blanton's Poland Special Release 2020 Single Barrel Bourbon, click here.