I watched the Kirkland 23 Sherry Finish sit on the shelf for months before I bought one. I had bought the previous versions, 22, 20 and 18, and I was not impressed. They were good dramas, but not at all memorable. Nothing I would buy again.

So I was happy to let it sit, until James, a member of the Flatwater Whiskey Society (aka Scotch Club), texted it saying it was amazing. Then a week later, Heath stepped in and seconded the idea, and I thought I was going to give it a go.

I was amazed by its quality! Bottled in one of the 50 or so distilleries in Speyside, there is no indication of the source of the distillate. Finished in sherry casks for almost two years and bottled at a very nice 46%, it is best pure, or with a few drops of water. A nice spicy finish contrasts with the sweet sherry notes. You can certainly smell the classic sherry notes of raisins and dates, similar to previous versions, but the difference with this one is the palate and finish – lovely warm orange and Christmas spices or cinnamon. It’s available until it’s gone to Costco. Priced at $ 79.99 in Lincoln, I’d take two!

Whiskey News and Notes: There is a new Glenmorangie, called X. It is a single malt with no age indication, designed to be mixed into cocktails. Described as sweet with lots of vanilla notes, it costs around $ 40. Until next time, sláinte!

The author, Mark Feit, is a Certified Whiskey Ambassador and has visited 57 distilleries in Scotland with his father, Bob. You can reach Mark at [email protected]