Bimber returns with a second round of releases in its ‘Shoulders of Giants’ series. Eight new ‘Giants’ have been introduced, joining the original six from the first batch, along with fresh country exclusives – this time with Germany and Belgium joining the UK and Poland. With samples from all eight of these new expressions kindly sent by Bimber a few weeks ago, let’s dive into a review of this Bimber Shoulders of Giants Second Release.
Giants, Sure, But Not A Lot Of Giantesses…
I’m really enjoying the ‘Shoulders of Giants’ series. The cask selection is classic but the whiskies range from very good to excellent, as you’ll see in the review of those eight new additions below. The labels and tubes are beautifully designed, featuring warm, painted portraits of the notable figures chosen for each bottling. The chosen individuals are indeed well known, and though I’ll admit one name in this second batch was new to me, they each feel well-deserving of their spot. However…
Only two women?
I agree, with Marie Curie included in the first batch, that makes three women in the lineup – three remarkable ‘giantesses’. But three out of fourteen isn’t enough, especially when so many recognise the need to break the old, dusty stereotype of whisky as a men’s-only drink and industry. We all know women who love and appreciate whisky. In my own small whisky club, two of the members are women, one of whom has a particular passion for cask-strength expressions. I also know a talented and spirited journalist who contributes to the French edition of Whisky Magazine and has written a few books on whisky and rum.
Women play essential roles throughout the whisky industry. Some are more widely recognised, but many others – like Annabel, Sophie, Louise, Ewelina, Libby, Emma, Lauren, Christine, Georgie and countless more – make more than substantial contributions as managers, founders, distillers, ambassadors, journalists, tour guides, visitor centre managers, and in countless other roles that keep the industry thriving. These women aren’t just participants; they are integral to whisky’s evolution and success.
The whisky industry has come a long way, yet it still struggles to fully recognise and embrace women in various roles, whether they are creating, promoting, or enjoying whisky. Historically, whisky has been marketed heavily toward men, wrapped in traditional ideas of masculinity. This marketing has not only limited whisky’s appeal to a broader audience but has also created a lingering stereotype that whisky is a ‘man’s drink’. This outdated perception creates unnecessary barriers for women, from how they’re perceived in tasting rooms to how seriously they’re taken in distilleries, often forcing them to constantly prove their knowledge and passion.
One of the major issues facing women in the whisky industry is the lack of visibility. Female whisky makers, brand ambassadors, and even executives exist (including at Bimber with Ewelina Chruszczyk), but they’re rarely spotlighted in the same way their male counterparts are. Companies are quick to promote a ‘master distiller’ or a ‘brand ambassador’ as long as they fit the mould of a rugged man with years of whisky-drinking experience. When a woman takes on these roles, her accomplishments are often minimised or overshadowed, and she’s frequently positioned as a novelty rather than a serious professional. This imbalance means that young women considering a career in whisky have fewer role models, and the cycle of underrepresentation continues.
Women who work in whisky production, marketing, and tasting often find themselves subjected to gendered biases. Female distillers, for example, frequently have their expertise questioned, or they’re pigeonholed into ‘lighter’ roles, like flavour or aroma profiling, rather than full-on production roles. Even those women who break through these stereotypes and achieve recognition in their craft often face subtle forms of discrimination. Instead of being acknowledged for their talent, they’re sometimes regarded as the exception – an attitude that limits the industry’s potential to grow and diversify its workforce.
Marketing is another area where the whisky industry falls short. Women have been consuming whisky for centuries, yet advertising often targets only men, reinforcing the idea that whisky is a male-oriented drink. When women do appear in whisky ads, they’re often relegated to the background or shown as passive onlookers rather than genuine enthusiasts. When brands do attempt to market to women, they often resort to gimmicks, such as pink labels or ‘lighter’ whisky blends, which are often more insulting than inclusive. Instead of creating a welcoming atmosphere, these moves feel condescending, as if the industry doesn’t believe that women can appreciate whisky in its truest and richest forms.
This attitude extends into social spaces as well. Female whisky enthusiasts frequently report feeling dismissed in tasting events or whisky bars. They’re often assumed to be ‘tagging along’ with male friends or partners, and their knowledge is questioned if they speak up. These microaggressions can make whisky environments feel unwelcoming, leading to fewer women feeling comfortable pursuing their passion for whisky publicly. A culture shift is needed to ensure that all enthusiasts are treated equally, regardless of gender, so that women can explore and enjoy whisky without facing constant judgment.
The media surrounding whisky has also been slow to reflect a balanced gender perspective. Male whisky writers and influencers dominate publications, while women’s voices remain largely underrepresented. When women do gain a foothold, they often feel pressured to perform a balancing act – appealing to a predominantly male audience while maintaining their unique perspectives. Without a stronger presence in whisky journalism and media, women’s insights and experiences are continually overshadowed, and the industry misses out on fresh and diverse viewpoints that could appeal to a broader audience.
Moreover, this lack of visibility impacts the next generation. Young women who might be interested in whisky, whether as a career or a personal interest, are left without visible role models to look up to. When they see an industry that appears to be dominated by men, they might feel that it’s simply ‘not for them’, which stifles the growth and innovation that diversity naturally brings. As long as women remain underrepresented, the industry loses out on potential talent and fresh perspectives that could shape the future of whisky.
Even on the consumer side, the whisky community can be unwelcoming to women. Women whisky drinkers often report feeling patronised or disrespected when they express opinions about whisky. If a woman prefers a strong, smoky dram, she may be met with surprise or even disbelief, as though her taste preferences don’t ‘fit’. Such attitudes discourage women from participating in whisky culture, creating a self-fulfilling prophecy where the industry is male-dominated simply because women are made to feel like outsiders.
What’s often overlooked is the fact that women have always been part of whisky’s history. Many legendary distillers and creators have been women, and women continue to play crucial roles in production, from distillation to quality control. However, this history is rarely celebrated or highlighted, leading to a one-sided view of whisky’s legacy that disregards women’s contributions. If the industry acknowledged and celebrated this history, it could open doors to more inclusive storytelling and branding.
In the end, the whisky industry has everything to gain by embracing women as equal participants and leaders. As long as outdated stereotypes continue to persist, the industry will limit its growth and potential. By promoting women in visible roles, marketing inclusively, and creating respectful spaces for all whisky enthusiasts, the industry can ensure that whisky is truly enjoyed by everyone who appreciates it.
So, if there’s a third batch of Shoulders of Giants, please include more remarkable women, more Giantesses. We all need to play a part in breaking the outdated, dusty view of whisky as solely a man’s drink.
Bimber Shoulders of Giants: Darwin – The Naturalist Review
Charles Darwin was a British naturalist best known for his groundbreaking theory of evolution by natural selection, which revolutionised our understanding of biology. His seminal work, On the Origin of Species (1859), laid the foundation for modern evolutionary science and profoundly impacted numerous fields.
The Bimber Darwin – The Naturalist is one of three UK-exclusive releases in the second instalment of Bimber‘’’s Shoulders of Giants series. Aged in ex-bourbon cask #376, this whisky was bottled in 2024 at its natural cask strength of 58.3% ABV. This single cask yielded just 259 bottles, which have now regrettably sold out.
Colour:
Burnished
Nose:
Neat: Bright notes of fresh orange and peach alongside tinned fruits like pear and more peach, with hints of yellow apple. Warm custard, orange blossom water, wood wax, and a touch of leather polish.
With water: Reduction brings out more caramel and fewer fruit notes, accompanied by fresh pastries and, with time, even richer custard.
Palate:
Neat: A syrupy mouthfeel right from the start. Citrus fruits and oak blend seamlessly, while caramel and spices bring balance. Notes of buttery cake with a hint of orange blossom water, dried herbs, blond tobacco, candle wax, and an abundance of caramel reminiscent of Werther‘’’s Originals.
With water: A fruitier profile emerges, with tropical hints of passion fruit and pineapple, a touch of grapefruit, and heightened oak spices – all perfectly balanced. Just a few drops of water elevate the palate to something truly stunning.
Finish:
The finish is long, with lingering caramel and soft spices tingling on the tongue. A gentle warmth settles in the throat, complemented by hints of wood and dark chocolate.
Comments:
Neat, this whisky was very good, making me debate between a 7.5 or an 8 for the rating. But with a few drops of water, the nose shifts, balancing sweetness and fruit, while the palate bursts with vibrant fruitiness. With those added drops, it’s a solid 8 – absolutely delicious.
Rating: 8/10
Bimber Shoulders of Giants: Winston – The Statesman Review
Winston Churchill was a British statesman, writer, and wartime leader best known for his role as Prime Minister during World War II, guiding the UK through its darkest hours with resilience and stirring oratory. Known for his love of cigars and fine spirits, he combined his larger-than-life personality with an unyielding dedication, leaving a legacy as one of the 20th century’s most influential figures.
The Bimber Winston, another UK exclusive, was aged in a single oloroso sherry cask (#473) and bottled at cask strength (57.9%), yielding an outturn of 302 bottles – now unfortunately sold out.
Colour:
Tawny.
Nose:
Neat: Classic Oloroso notes shine through with dates, figs, plums, raisins, and prunes, along with hints of hazelnuts and walnuts. There’s a touch of orange marmalade and marzipan, while the Spanish oak adds depth without overwhelming tannins.
With water: The profile becomes more wine-like, with a slightly stronger presence of wood, leaning toward a touch of plank wood.
Palate:
Neat: Caramel and dark fruits lead the way, with an almost peaty edge at first and a syrupy mouthfeel. Notes of fig chutney, orange marmalade, pepper, fizzy candy, dark chocolate, and hazelnut chocolate spread.
With water: The palate turns sweeter, leaning toward homemade strawberry jam with an extra hint of pepper.
Finish:
The finish is long, with lingering fruit notes accompanied by a warm sensation in the throat. Subtle traces of tannins emerge as the fruit evolves into a jam-like quality, reminiscent of a dark fruit compote.
Comments:
I’ve been drifting away from sherried whiskies lately, but this one really captured my attention. Unlike the Bimber Darwin, which almost hit an 8 neat, the addition of water affected the nose negatively and didn’t improve the palate – it just made it a bit sweeter with more emphasis on red fruits.
Rating: 7.5/10
Bimber Shoulders of Giants: Victoria – The Monarch Review
Queen Victoria was the British monarch who reigned from 1837 to 1901, overseeing a period of significant industrial, cultural, and political change known as the Victorian Era. Her long reign and strong personality made her a symbol of British imperial power and a pivotal figure in the history of the monarchy.
The Bimber Victoria has been aged in Pedro Ximénez sherry cask #450 (likely a hogshead), yielding an outturn of 298 bottles filled at cask strength (57.9% ABV). This whisky is the third UK exclusive in the second release of the Shoulders of Giants series, and, like the others, it is unfortunately sold out.
Colour:
Auburn.
Nose:
Neat: The nose is reminiscent of the Winston, featuring figs, plums, prunes, and dates, but with a touch more sweetness. It feels a bit simpler in comparison to the Winston, with some background spices emerging after a while, along with a hint of dust.
With water: The profile becomes slightly dustier while remaining mostly the same.
Palate:
Neat: A sweet, slightly wine-like arrival with notes of dates, prunes, plums, milk chocolate, apricot jam, gentle spices, icing sugar, vanilla, and a hint of wood.
With water: Becomes fruitier, bringing out flavours of fruit candies, a slight prickle, and a touch of citrus tang.
Finish:
The finish is long, with lingering notes of vanilla and icing sugar, accompanied by plums and milk chocolate.
Comments:
Initially, it felt similar to the Winston but with slightly less complexity. Still, it remains a very good whisky.
Rating: 7/10
Bimber Shoulders of Giants: Ludwig – The Composer Review
Ludwig van Beethoven was a groundbreaking German composer and pianist whose music bridged the Classical and Romantic eras, influencing generations of composers. Known for masterpieces like his Symphony No. 9 and Moonlight Sonata, he overcame profound hearing loss to create some of history’s most celebrated works.
The Bimber Ludwig is one of three Germany exclusives. Ludwig was matured in an American oak ex-bourbon (cask #402) and yielded 242 bottles filled at cask strength (58.7% ABV).
Colour:
Amontillado.
Nose:
Neat: Notes of yellow and tropical fruits – apricots, grapefruit, guava, passion fruit, and lemon – combine with honey and gentle spices. Hints of mint, liquorice, and freshly cut grass, with the nose being overall at a medium intensity. Custard emerges after a bit of time.
With water: Icing sugar comes forward, along with richer custard notes, evoking buttery pastry and vanilla.
Palate:
Neat: Sweet and buttery on the arrival, followed by a bold kick of spices – pepper, Tabasco, and chili – along with woody notes. Chocolate and fruity flavours from the nose appear, now with a sharper citrus sourness. The mouthfeel is creamy, with the woodiness intensifying the longer you wait before swallowing.
With water: The spices mellow slightly, though the pleasant sourness remains. It’s a bit sweeter, but overall, the profile stays mostly the same.
Finish:
The finish is citrusy, with soft wood tones and a gentle warmth, accompanied by a subtle astringency.
Comments:
Very good, though it feels like it’s missing a little something compared to the Bimber Darwin. Still, an excellent whisky overall.
Rating: 7/10
Bimber Shoulders of Giants: Albert – The Physicist Review
Albert Einstein was a pioneering physicist whose theories of relativity transformed our understanding of space, time, and energy, reshaping modern physics. Known for his equation (E = mc²), he remains one of history’s most influential scientists and a symbol of intellectual brilliance.
The only expression in this second release series to undergo a finish, Bimber Albert was initially aged in an ex-bourbon cask before being finished in a Tawny port cask (#304/8). This resulted in 252 bottles at cask strength (58.3% ABV), and it is likely sold out.
Colour:
Old oak.
Nose:
Neat: The nose is winey, featuring dark fruits such as plums and dates, along with notes of nuts like almonds and walnuts. There’s also a buttery custard characteristic that has been consistent throughout this second series, with subtle hints of wood.
With water: A few drops of water bring minimal change, revealing hints of Figolu biscuits.
Palate:
Neat: The palate mirrors the nose, accompanied by a touch of astringency. The port influence, though just a finishing, plays a significant role, with flavours of wood, dark fruits, berries, and spent tea leaves.
With water: It becomes slightly sweeter, with pepper and chili notes emerging and intensifying as you hold it in your mouth. Hints of raspberry and strawberry juice.
Finish:
The finish is medium in length, with lingering notes of tea and red wine.
Comments:
It’s good, but I feel the Tawny port finish was slightly too long, overshadowing the bright fruit character of the Bimber. The winey notes are a bit too prominent for my taste, but they may appeal more to fans of port-matured or finished whiskies.
Rating: 6/10
Bimber Shoulders of Giants: Marlene – The Actress Review
Marlene Dietrich was a German-American actress and singer renowned for her glamorous persona and sultry voice, captivating audiences in both film and music throughout the 20th century. Rising to fame in the 1930s with iconic roles in films like The Blue Angel and Shanghai Express, she became a symbol of sophistication and a trailblazer for women in the entertainment industry.
The Bimber Marlene was also a Germany exclusive. It was aged in a Spanish oak ex-oloroso cask (#442) and bottled at 58.1% ABV. The 285 bottles are likely sold out as well.
Colour:
Russet.
Nose:
Neat: The nose showcases a strong sherry influence, even more pronounced than in the Bimber Winston. It presents familiar aromas of figs and dates, alongside almonds and hazelnuts, with hints of rancio, cinnamon, and plums.
With water: Initially, it becomes slightly sharper, revealing notes of black and red berries as it develops.
Palate:
Neat: The palate offers a thick mouthfeel with a spicy arrival. There’s a pronounced rancio character compared to the Winston, accompanied by notes of wood, cigar leaves, 80% dark chocolate, blackcurrant, blueberry, and orange zest. A pinch of pepper and a hint of wet pebble.
With water: A few drops of water slightly thin the mouthfeel but otherwise leave the palate largely unchanged, with the addition of some tea leaf notes.
Finish:
The finish features notes of unlit cigar, rich dark chocolate, and espresso, complemented by a hint of herbaceous-ness in the background.
Comments:
This is a classic Oloroso-matured whisky, and I’m curious to see how it compares as a single cask to the Bimber Klub No. 5, which is a small batch matured in Oloroso, once I open it. However, I find it less impressive than the Winston, so I’ll give it a rating of 7.
Rating: 7/10
Bimber Shoulders of Giants: Sax – The Inventor Review
Adolphe Sax was a Belgian inventor and musician best known for creating the saxophone in the early 1840s, revolutionising the world of music with its unique sound. His innovations in instrument design and acoustics have left a lasting impact on both classical and jazz music, making the saxophone an essential part of various musical genres.
The Bimber Sax, a Belgium exclusive, was aged in ex-Pedro Ximénez sherry cask #437 and bottled at 58.3%, yielding 302 bottles. This release was made for Top Malts, where you can still find it available for around €110.
Colour:
Dark mohagony.
Nose:
Neat: The nose is sharp, featuring a hint of struck matches (though it‘’’s not as off-putting as it sounds), along with prunes, rum and raisin ice cream, spices, fresh wood, and newly tanned leather.
With water: The addition of water introduces a dusty note, while the overall nose becomes more subdued.
Palate:
Neat: The palate offers a velvety mouthfeel with a spicy and sweet arrival. There’s a solid pinch of pepper and chili, complemented by raspberry jam, dark chocolate on a biscuit (think of ‘Petit Écolier’), rum-raisin ice cream, orange zest, lemon, grapefruit, nutmeg, and hazelnut.
With water: Initially, it becomes much sweeter, but the spices soon reassert themselves, taking the lead with the fruitiness closely behind.
Finish:
The finish features lingering pepper alongside chocolate and spice, but it fades quickly, leaving a pleasant warmth on the tongue.
Comments:
It may not be perfectly balanced, with perhaps a touch too much spice on the palate for some (though I personally enjoy it), but overall, it‘’’s a delightful PX-matured Bimber. While struck matches are often linked to sulphur and considered an off note, I actually like this aroma here, and I believe it works well in this context.
Rating: 7.5/10
Bimber Shoulders of Giants: Witkiewicz – The Artist Review
Stanisław Witkiewicz was a Polish painter, playwright, and philosopher known for his contributions to the avant-garde movement in the early 20th century. His innovative works, characterised by a blend of expressionism and surrealism, explored themes of identity, reality, and the human experience, leaving a lasting impact on Polish art and literature.
Last but not least, Bimber Witkiewicz is a Poland exclusive. Like some of the other expressions, it was aged in a Spanish oak ex-oloroso cask (#460), resulting in an outturn of 285 bottles at 58.7% ABV. It‘’’s unclear whether it is still available in Poland shops.
Colour:
Russet
Nose:
Neat: The nose presents notes of burnt toast, leather, orange marmalade, wet earth, and the musty aroma of a dunnage warehouse.
With water: With the addition of water, it reveals hints of dusty books, but not much else, as the nose becomes quite subdued.
Palate:
Neat: The palate is vibrant with citrus fruits—orange, abundant lemon, and grapefruit—combined with chili and black pepper. A light woody note is present, and with a second sip, more spices and wood emerge, adding heat.
With water: Initially sweeter than neat, it introduces flavours of icing sugar and vanilla sponge cake, before the wood and spice reclaim the forefront.
Finish:
The finish is long, featuring notes of grapefruit and wood, alongside pepper and leather.
Comments:
This Bimber Witkiewicz offers a unique take on Spanish Oloroso Bimber, leaning more towards orange and spices rather than the typical Oloroso notes I usually encounter.
Rating: 7/10
Samples provided by Bimber, but all the views are my own and getting free samples does not change what I write and how I rate. And regarding how I rate, you can find my rating scale explained here or on the top menu.
