English whisky remains one of the most compelling stories in the single malt world right now, and The Lakes has been central to that narrative. The Whiskymaker's Editions Equinox sits within a series that has consistently demonstrated ambition — each release shaped by the whiskymaker's hand rather than dictated by age statements or rigid house style. At 46.6% ABV and carrying no age statement, this is a whisky that asks to be judged on what's in the glass, not what's on the label. I respect that.
The Equinox expression belongs to a curated line where each bottling is built around a specific flavour concept. The name itself suggests balance — light and dark in equal measure — and that philosophy of equilibrium is worth keeping in mind as you approach the pour. At just under £90, it occupies a space where expectations are rightly high. You're paying for craft-led blending decisions, small-batch production, and a distillery that has invested seriously in its sherry cask programme and wood policy. Whether that premium feels justified will depend on how much you value the English single malt category and its evolving identity.
What I will say is this: The Lakes has earned its place in the conversation. The Whiskymaker's Editions have been among the most thoughtfully constructed releases from any distillery outside Scotland in recent years. The decision to bottle at 46.6% — non-chill filtered, natural colour — signals confidence. There's no hiding behind presentation here. This is whisky made to be tasted seriously.
Tasting Notes
I'll hold back from publishing formal tasting notes for the Equinox until I've had the chance to sit with it properly across multiple sessions. What I can say is that the Whiskymaker's Editions as a series tend to deliver richness and depth that punches above what many expect from English whisky. Expect a single malt with character shaped by careful cask selection rather than extended maturation. I'll update this review with full nose, palate, and finish notes in due course.
The Verdict
At 8.1 out of 10, the Equinox earns a strong recommendation. This is a whisky that represents where English single malt is heading — not as a curiosity or novelty, but as a genuine contender. The Whiskymaker's Editions have built a reputation for delivering expressive, well-constructed drams, and the Equinox continues that standard. The price point asks you to commit, certainly, but for a limited-edition, craft-driven single malt bottled at a respectable strength without cosmetic shortcuts, I think the ask is fair. It won't replace your favourite Speyside in the rotation, but it doesn't need to. It offers something different — and it does so with conviction.
Best Served
Pour it neat at room temperature and give it ten minutes to open. If you find the ABV slightly assertive on first approach, add no more than a few drops of still water — just enough to unlock the mid-palate without flattening the texture. This is a whisky built for slow, attentive drinking. A Glencairn glass will serve you well. Save the Highball for something less considered; the Equinox deserves your full attention.
