The latest offerings from Milroy’s of Soho are a Clynelish 2001 and Kildalton 2003. Both come in the Vintage Reserve series.
Clynelish 24 yo 2001 (51,8%, Milroy’s of Soho ‘Vintage Reserve’ 2025, hogshead #235, 164 btl.)
Nose: very classy. Lots of wax candles, some dried flowers and blossoms, and fruits like white nectarines and oranges. Waxed lemon peels, hints of pear cordial and honeysuckle. A little resin and crushed sea shells. Then also the freshness of mint and pine needles, balanced by a little vanilla.
Mouth: a lot of oily and waxy notes again, mixed with subtle herbs and plenty of citrus zest. Amalfi lemon peels, mildly bitter oranges and grapefruit, along with floral notes and a chalky edge again. Then a grippy green tea note, eucalyptus, more pears and some white pepper.
Finish: long, still quite zesty, with lingering waxes and floral notes.
Some light astringency on the palate, but on the other hand this Clynelish has some totally classic waxy markers. Sold out from Milroy’s of Soho.
Kildalton 22 yo 2003 (53,7%, Milroy’s of Soho ‘Vintage Reserve’ 2025, ex-bourbon barrel #112)
Nose: great tarry and sooty notes that remind us of Ardbeg from previous decades. Lots of smouldering leaves, charcoal smoke, graphite and fresh shellfish. Grilled eggplant and some spent frying oil. Slightly rounder notes underneath, maybe apricot jam and marzipan.
Mouth: rather sweet onset, more almond paste and stewed fruits, along with bonfire smoke, earthy moss and warm salty ashes. Subtle floral notes. Then liquorice, tarry ropes and hints of smoked fish, along with black peppercorns and roasted herbs.
Finish: long and tarry, with deep exhaust fumes, some dried seaweed, herbs and salt.
Above average complexity, with sweetness, spiciness and plenty of old-style smoke. Two really good releases. Available from Milroy’s or partner retailers like TWE. Score: 90/100