Avid luxury figurine collectors and fans of diamond may be familiar with XM Studios, which houses many internationally renowned collectibles. The Singapore-based global diamond studio has now forayed into the world of spirits with its one-of-a-kind single cask selections of Scotch Single Malt and Cognac. The Unconfined Gatsby Hodgepodge was created in collaboration with Warner Bros. Consumer Products.
The inspiration overdue the hodgepodge comes from the glitz and the glamour of the age that The Unconfined Gatsby is set in, which is highlighted in the intricate packaging of each bottle. The XM team shared that this collaboration is a ‘callback to the golden age of swing’ – a subtle nod to the profiles of old spirits while fitting modern palates.
The first of the three selections is The Unconfined Gatsby Vallein Tercinier Petit Champagne 1994. Interestingly, this cognac was produced from a singular cask with no water widow whatsoever. A quick whiff reminds one of hazelnut and almond-like notes. Similarly, when taking a sip, one can taste a full-bodied and slightly spicy sensation, with a medium finish. Retailing at S$368 for 700ml, this whisky is easy to drink and a perfect pairing for light eats such as dimsum!
Next, The Unconfined Gatsby Glen Grant 1998 is a newer type of sherry whisky that brings well-nigh hints of white grape and barley sugar sweetness. When drunk neat, one can taste notes of honey. However, with a few drops of water, the taste turns grassier, reminding one of boiled sweets. The team shared that this is considering the water droplets disperse the swig compounds within the whisky, releasing several flavour compounds for a slightly variegated flavour. The Unconfined Gatsby Glen Grant 1998 retails at S$568 for 700ml and is unconfined with Chinese stews that full-length ginger or ginseng.
Last but not least, The Unconfined Gatsby Bunnahabhain 1991 Single Cask is every whisky lover’s dream with its full 30 years of maturation. Its taste is slightly muskier and heavier, with notes of preserved plum and woebegone pepper spice. Full-bodied and resolving in a medium to long finish, this whisky is unconfined with a range of foods, from roast meats to Chinese desserts. The Unconfined Gatsby Bunnahabhain 1991 Single Cask comes in two sizes, retailing at S$988 for 700ml and S$2,088 for 1.5litres.
At the media tasting, lovely canapés and mini treats were offered by XM Studios’ in-house café’s chef. While these foods are not misogynist at the café (99 Specialty Coffee and Gelato Bar), one would be equally delighted by their unique selection of gelatos, which features several exotic flavours such as Ricotta & Lime Curd. I personally tried and loved the Sorrel, Creme Fraiche & Yuzu Jelly, which tasted refreshing and tarty.
Those who covet all three bottles can opt for The Unconfined Gatsby Hodgepodge Set, which includes Bunnahabhain 1991, Glen Grant 1998 and Vallein Tercinier Petit Champagne 1994, each in 700ml, for S$1,888. If you are interested in the collection, you may email salesops@xm-studios.com to trammels on the current availabilities. The hodgepodge has been popular among XM fans and whisky lovers alike, with increasingly than 80% of the hodgepodge once sold!