As the holiday season approaches, an advent calendar featuring rum or whisky can add excitement to your festive countdown. Whether you're an enthusiast, collector, or simply curious, these calendars offer a daily opportunity to discover unique flavors. SpiritRadar helps you find the perfect option for a memorable holiday experience.
Advent calendars typically include 24 (sometimes 12) miniature bottles of interesting/premium rum or whisky. Each day reveals a new sample, ranging from smoky Islay whiskies to rich Caribbean rums. It’s a journey through flavors and styles from around the world.
These calendars provide:
Consider the following when selecting your calendar:
Price starts at: 65 €
Samples: 24 x 20ml
Where to buy: See Stores in Stock
Experience a global rum-tasting journey this holiday season with the 1423 24 Days of Rum Advent Calendar. This thoughtfully curated set features 24 distinct 20ml rums from 24 different countries, offering a rich exploration of diverse flavors and styles. Each calendar includes two custom tasting glasses and a tasting notes booklet, allowing you to document your impressions and preferences. Additionally, a QR code provides access to detailed information about each rum, enhancing your tasting experience. Whether as a gift or for personal enjoyment, this calendar is an excellent choice for any rum enthusiast.
Embark on a global whisky journey this holiday season with the Whisky Tour of the World Advent Calendar 2024. This exclusive set features 24 premium 50ml whiskies from award-winning distilleries across 24 countries, offering a rich exploration of diverse flavors and styles. The collection is elegantly housed in a handcrafted wooden bookcase containing five linen-bound, gold-foiled books. Four of these books each hold six whisky samples, while the fifth includes two custom whisky glasses and an illustrated booklet. The booklet provides detailed insights into each distillery and comprehensive tasting notes, enhancing your appreciation of the whiskies. Whether as a gift or for personal enjoyment, this advent calendar is an exceptional choice for any whisky enthusiast.
Price starts at: 223 €
Samples: 24 x 50ml
Where to buy: See Stores in Stock
Discover more advent calendars for 2024 with SpiritRadar here https://app.spiritradar.com/search/?q=advent+calendar+2024
To get the most out of your calendar:
The SpiritRadar app simplifies your search for the perfect advent calendar, offering price tracking, availability updates, and insights to help you choose.
Start your festive journey and make every December day special.
This October, Velier's Foundations Collection offers collectors a rare exploration of rum and whisky. More than just a set of bottles, this collection celebrates the architectural and cultural heritage behind the world's finest spirits, with a catalogue that brings to life the rich history of each distillery.
The collection’s inspiration traces back to Rothes Glen Castle in Scotland's Speyside region, designed by Charles Doig, an architect whose distinctive pagoda roof design has left a lasting legacy across many Scottish distilleries. The pagoda roofs, initially functional for improving malt-drying processes, became a symbol of Scottish whisky. This architectural nod extends through the collection, connecting distilleries in Scotland, Japan, and even as far as Taiwan.
The Foundations Collection presents a curated selection of rums and whiskies, each representing unique characteristics of its origin and craft:
Each bottle in the Foundations Collection reflects its distillery’s legacy. Some, like the Highland Park and Laphroaig distilleries, show the impact of Doig’s architectural vision with their preserved pagoda-style roofs. Meanwhile, modern distilleries such as The Cairn in Scotland, designed with environmental harmony in mind, bring a contemporary contrast.
The collection also highlights other cultural milestones. For example, a rare Cuban rum from 1956 features the art of Cuban artist Aconcha, bridging the cultural heritage of Cuba’s golden era of rum production with contemporary spirits artistry.
For those interested in adding these distinctive bottles to their collection, the Foundations Collection is a treasure trove of stories and craftsmanship. Adding desired bottles to your Watch List on SpiritRadar ensures you’ll receive notifications as soon as they’re available, giving you an opportunity to secure them at initial prices.
The Foundations Collection by Velier offers a rare chance to explore spirits that transcend generations, regions, and traditions. This curated selection of rums and whiskies bridges old-world heritage with modern innovation, inviting collectors to delve into the heart of each distillery’s history and craftsmanship. Keep an eye on SpiritRadar for further updates and availability, and uncover the stories behind these exceptional bottles.
For many US buyers, shopping for alcohol in the EU presents an opportunity to access a broader and often more unique selection of bottles. Some spirits that are common in Europe are rare or even unavailable in the US. Additionally, Europe is home to many independent bottlers offering special editions and limited releases that are hard to find elsewhere.
Another reason to look to Europe is the lighter regulatory environment. The alcohol market in the EU is generally less restricted than in the US, where state-specific regulations can limit availability. This allows European sellers to offer a more diverse range of products, often at competitive prices.
We analyzed 100 of the popular european sites specializing in rum and whisky to explore their shipping options to the US. Of these 100 stores, only 25 offer delivery to the US - 14 of them are e-commerce stores, while 11 operate as auction platforms. It's important to note that 9 of these 25 sites only deliver to specific states within the US due to varying state alcohol regulations.
Shipping costs vary significantly based on the weight and volume of the shipment. Sending a single bottle (around 2 kg / 4.4 lbs) typically costs between $50 and $130, with prices sometimes listed in pounds or euros, depending on the platform. The exact weight also depends heavily on the packaging, as many retailers use additional protective materials to ensure the bottle arrives safely, which can increase the overall weight. For larger orders or bulk shipments, customers are usually required to contact the seller directly to arrange pricing and shipping details. Some sellers also determine shipping costs per parcel, where one parcel typically contains six bottles.
Additionally, there is a difference in bottle sizes between Europe and the US that buyers should consider when calculating costs. European bottles are often 700 ml, while 750 ml bottles are more common in the US. This discrepancy in volume can affect shipping costs, pricing comparisons, and even duties or taxes, so it's important to take it into account.
It's essential to keep in mind that additional customs duties, taxes, and fees are often the buyer’s responsibility. While some platforms include shipping insurance in the price, others offer it as an optional add-on.
Delivery times vary depending on the seller. E-commerce stores generally promise delivery between 1 to 3 weeks, with some offering expedited shipping within 10 business days. Auction platforms, however, may take longer—up to 5 weeks—due to the need to wait for payment confirmation and auction closure before shipping.
Before ordering alcohol from Europe, it's crucial to be aware of the legal regulations in your state. Some US states have strict laws regarding the import of alcohol, and failing to comply with these regulations can result in your shipment being held or even confiscated. Make sure you can legally receive alcohol in your state before placing an order, particularly if you live in the following states:
Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Hawaii, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Utah, West Virginia, and Wisconsin.
Always check your state's specific laws to ensure you won't face any issues with customs or local authorities.
| Site | Shipping Cost |
|---|---|
| catawiki.com | Individual, usually around $100 |
| whiskyauctioneer.com | From $130 |
| rumauctioneer.com | From $130 |
| whiskyauction.com | From $130 |
| scotchwhiskyauctions.com | From $80 |
| rumtrades.com | From $110 |
| rhumauction.com | From $130 |
| whisky.auction | From $80 |
| whiskyhammer.com | From $120 |
| thegrandwhiskyauction.com | From $150 |
| whiskyshop.com | From $105 |
| Site | Shipping Cost |
|---|---|
| excellencerhum.com | From $80 |
| distilia.com | Individual |
| rhumattitude.com | From $80 |
| babo.wine | From $110 (6 bottles parcel) |
| whiskyagents.com | From $60 |
| musthavemalts.com | From $72 |
| berlinbottle.de | From $45 |
| lionswhisky.com | From $50 |
| htfw.com | $51 + $8 per bottle |
| rombo.dk | From $59 |
| deliawhisky.de | From $43 |
| idealwine.com | From $66 |
| masterofmalt.com | From $62 |
| rhumcaraibes.com | From $50 |
Welcome to the October edition of the SpiritRadar newsletter! As the autumn leaves start to fall, we're excited to bring you the latest updates and seasonal insights from the world of rum and whisky. Let's warm up with some great news and discoveries this month!
During August, we added 274 new rum bottles and 980 new whisky bottles,with 190 of them added based on requests from our users. This brings the totalto an impressive 18 845 rum bottles and 153 088 whisky bottles.
We are currently focusing on adding American online stores that offer shipping options. This will make it easier for our American users to find and buy bottles.
We're delighted to reconnect with you in this month's update. As always, we're here to keep you in the loop with all things SpiritRadar. Let's explore together!
During February, we added 135 rum bottles and 714 whisky bottles,with 145 of them added upon your request. This brings the total to an impressive 18 455 rum bottles and 151 263 whisky bottles in total.
Additionally, we added the Gwsauctions.com online auction portal.
We're delighted to reconnect with you in this month's update. As always, we're here to keep you in the loop with all things SpiritRadar. Let's explore together!
During February, we added 122 rum bottles and 907 whisky bottles,with 130 of them added upon your request. This brings the total to an impressive 18 320 rum bottles and 150 549 whisky bottles in total.
Additionally, we added the Next-Bottle.com and PrestigeWhiskyAuction.com online auction portals.
Hello readers! Welcome to an exciting interview.
I'm Kristyna Tumpachova, your host for today's exploration into the world of spirits. As the Chief Marketing Officer at SpiritRadar, I navigate the dynamic landscape of the drinks industry.
Away from the boardroom, I find my passions in the nuanced flavours of rum and whiskey, the adrenaline of boxing, the precision of archery and the creative realm of writing.
Today, however, the focus is on the stories and experiences of our special guest. Join me as we begin a fascinating conversation with Vladimír Smitka, my dear friend and colleague at SpiritRadar.
Hello and welcome! Could you please introduce yourself?
Hi, I'm Vladimir, an IT technician, developer and data analyst with a soft spot for rum.
You are also one of the founders of Spirit Radar. What motivated you to create the platform and delve into the world of rum analysis?
There is a simple and short answer to this - because I like rum and its varieties 🙂.
Can you give us a few more details, just in case a short answer isn't enough? 🙂
Sure. When my rum journey started, I found it challenging to find exciting bottles at a reasonable price in our country, so I started looking abroad. That's when I discovered that my friend Jan Kvasnicka, who is also a co-founder of SpiritRadar, was really into rums and I started inviting my other colleagues into this world.
A spoiler here is that I also have a marketing agency named Lynt. We are strongly focused on data collection, processing and analysis - so we were not far from creating such a tool. My colleagues came up with the idea of creating a tool to analyze rum sales data from online stores and auctions. Our database started to grow and we got to the point where it made sense to make it more professional and offer it to the world. That's how Spirit Radar was born.
Having explored the origins of Spirit Radar, could you delve into your personal journey with rum, highlighting the key moments and discoveries that shaped your appreciation of the spirit?
My journey to rum has been a long one. This is probably because the synonym for rum in the Czech Republic is Tuzemák - a distillate made of potatoes. I think it's suitable for baking, but not for drinking… That's why I avoided rums for a long time.
On a few occasions I tried standard rums like Diplomatico Reserva Exclusiva with friends and at bars. I found that well-aged dark rum was very different from distilled potatoes. So about nine years ago I started exploring various other "supermarket" brands, some I liked, some I didn't. My friend Adam helped me find the best mainstream offerings and clarified my desire. The next milestone was an article by Lone Caner Key Rums of the World, which mentioned some that I was familiar with, and so I began a more systematic exploration of other rums from that list. I discovered El Dorado 15, which still has a place on my shelf and is still one of my favourite "easy rums". Subsequently, various Foursquare rums entered my repertoire. Again, I would mention Lone Caner and his article The Age of Veliers Demerara, which broadened my horizons considerably. I started tasting better rums and building up my collection.
What do you mean by "easy rums"?
By "easy rums" I mean rums that are relatively accessible, smooth and enjoyable, without overly complex or challenging flavours. It suggests rums that are easy to appreciate, especially for people who may be new to the world of rum or prefer a more straightforward drinking experience.
Can you give a personal advice to rum beginners on how to choose rums and develop their palate?
I certainly don't consider myself as an authority in the field, but I can recommend what has worked for me.
For those new to rum, starting with small editions from bottlers like S.B.S or La Maison du Rhum can offer a taste of its diversity. Rum advent calendars are also a fun, commitment-free way to explore various styles. Dive deeper at bars specializing in rum, where you can go beyond familiar faces like Diplomatico and Zacapa to truly broaden your horizons. Places like Prague's Rum House exemplify such venues. Don't forget events like the London Rum Fest and associated Cocktail Week, which are great for sampling and connecting with the rum community. Starting with specialist bottlers, visiting dedicated bars, and attending rum-focused events are the key steps to appreciating rum's rich variety.
Could you describe specific characteristics that attract your preference in rums? Are there any particular profiles that stand out for you?
First and foremost, I am definitely not a heavy drinker. My interest lies in savoring unique tastes, which is why I have a passion for tasting new and new bottles - a single bottle can span years on my shelf. I'm interested in the origins of the flavours and aromas, wondering whether they come from the cask or the environment in which the ingredients were grown.
While I don't anchor myself to specific flavor profiles, I find myself drawn to the earthy and woody notes that promise an unexpected bold twist. Demerara rums from Guyana perfectly encapsulate this preference, delivering surprises that resonate with me deeply. The ability of a rum to transport me to its birthplace is magical. Clairin Le Rocher is a prime example, though it diverges from my usual palate preferences. Just one whiff, and I'm whisked away to the vibrant streets of a Haitian market, amidst the aroma of street-side grilled meats. This immersive experience is what I seek in a rum. If pressed to pick a favorite, my heart leans towards an aged Guyanese rum for its distinctive charm. However, my quest for variety has led me to the rum calendar—an invaluable tool that has expanded my tastes to include South American rums from Peru and Ecuador. From detailed tasting, I've learned that High Ester Funky Jamaican rums might not suit my straight-drinking preference but make exquisite additions to cocktails. This explorative approach has introduced me to several hundred rums.
Would you describe your preferred ritual and tasting approach to drinking and tasting rum?
I enjoy rum on its own when I need to clear my head from work. I sip 2-3 small samples, think about the taste and aroma, don't think about the problems of civilisation, and maybe eat a piece of cheese, natural nuts or dark chocolate with it.
What do you think of flavoured and sweetened rums?
Actually I don't mind. I don't have a problem with sweetened rums if the producer doesn't hide it. The sugar brings a rounding to the flavour that would otherwise require a much longer ageing period. As long as the primary purpose is not to hide inferior rum, I'm fine with it.
Flavoured rums/elixirs don't offend me personally. They're great for drinking with friends who aren't into cask flavours. I always have a few on my shelf and like to take a few with me.
Can you tell me what's on the guest shelf?
The experts will probably laugh at me now… I currently have Espero, Cubaney and Kakadu, to name but a few (my wife approves). And if my visit manages that, we can subtly move on to Don Papa, El Dorado and Doorlys. Then we can move on to some more interesting samples.
Do you also have the same passion for whisky?
I'm not really qualified to say. There are many more bottles of whisky than rums, the market is much older (pure rums with clear provenance are a thing of the past 30 years) and the culture is different. I find rums to be more raw and more variable; after all, there are many countries where they are produced. I miss the search for origin in the flavour and aroma that I love in rums. Or maybe I haven't found it yet… But I can tell you that I really like Talisker or nordic Script Kiddie, for example 😉
Let's get back to rums. You revealed that you collect rums. What kind and why?
I'm particularly lover of Silver Seal - the independent bottler whose casks are hand-picked by Massimo Righi, whiskyantique.com. It's the only bottler from whom I love practically everything. I have a complete taste of the older batches - I used to meet them in a bar, bought a few bottles for myself and got the rest in samples, mainly from RhumAttitude.com. So I collect them because they're excellent, but at the same time they're lesser known, so they're relatively cheap. I also have these rums as a small investment for my young daughter when she grows up. I also really like their cases; the shelf with them is a work of art - I know I will be able to look at them for years to come. There are also a few Velier bottles and, of course, I've been bitten by the Caroni fever. But Silver Seal is my real passion and my bottles make me happy every time I look at them. It's a nice feeling that there are probably only a few dozen people in the world who have these gems.
Don't you think these rums are better enjoyed than kept as an investment?
I can understand that. Many people are against investing. However, it's important to distinguish between speculative purchases in a release for a quick resale on the secondary market, and a long-term investment. In the latter case, you are acting as an archivist, preserving the opportunity for someone in the future (or even yourself) to taste and compare something from a bygone era.
Spirit Radar partially addresses this problem. You can analyze how the prices of other bottles of the same brand in the same category have changed over time, and thus gain an insight into whether a dealer is pushing you into a price range that the bottles are unlikely to reach for a long time. You can also check the availability of the bottle - when it appeared in online stores after release, for how long, when it appeared in auctions and whether it has maintained its price. Spirit Radar helps to answer all these questions. And for inspiration, there is our Top 100 section.
Personally, I tend to buy several bottles - one for my collection and another for drinking or as a gift.
For someone considering a rum investment, what specific bottle would you recommend and what budget range do you think is appropriate?
I would like to point out that this is "not financial advice", but rather my personal opinion. Looking at global trends, bottle prices have been dropping over the years, which presents an excellent opportunity as many people are parting with their collections, offering attractive bottles at reasonable prices.
Given my preferences and the current landscape in Guyana, I would look for older vintages from the region. In terms of price, expensive bottles may have poor liquidity and the risk of losing some of their original value is significant. Personally, I think you can find exciting bottles in the hundreds of euros without too much trouble. However, individual research is essential and everyone should choose according to their own convictions. I find the LMDW catalogue as a good guide.
In a simplified recommendation, I'd suggest following the brands or distilleries you like, opting for a limited edition (perhaps under 1000 bottles) single cask with tropical maturation, or an annual blend carefully curated by someone who cares. You can also discover treasures from closed distilleries that will never be repeated, although the optimal time to acquire them may have passed.
Before we finish, Vladimir, could you tell us about the future of SpiritRadar? What exciting developments or plans do you have for the platform, and are there any personal aspirations you hope to fulfil in the world of spirits?
We have a lot of ambitious plans, but as you can imagine, the road from idea to implementation can be very long… We are currently working on making the app more user-friendly, expanding multilingualism and improving the information about online stores so that it can be better used for shopping. We also hope to make some more interesting data from our raw database available in the app. We've added a lot of small and large improvements over the last few months, such as the ability to export a collection or the Top 100 bottles section, which we're still tweaking and the output itself has surprised us at times.
But my favorite recent little feature is the bottle search by URL. If I'm browsing an ecommerce site, I just copy the address of the offer into the search and Spirit Radar immediately shows me that bottle with all the competing offers and current value. It's very handy for price checking.
Thank you, dear readers, for joining us on this fascinating journey into the world of spirits.
Special thanks to Vladimír Smitka for sharing his passion and insights into the world of rum. If you're thirsty for more, feel free to explore the SpiritRadar platform for a deeper dive into the diverse and rich universe of fine spirits. Until next time, here's to the extraordinary stories in every bottle!
If you would also like to share your own story, let us know and we can do a similar interview together.
