During my visit to the Loch Lomond distillery in August, I had the opportunity to taste a variety of exceptional drams. One of the ranges I was particularly eager to try was the relatively new Noble Rebel blended malt Scotch whisky line, released by Loch Lomond in 2023. This range includes three expressions: Noble Rebel Orchard Outburst, Hazelnut Harmony, and Smoke Symphony whisky.
Tag: Rating: Very Good Page 1 of 21
Whisky of the Week review and tasting notes for whisky I rated Very Good. When the dram is enjoyable and memorable, and we don’t mind having another glass later in the week. This is bottles I might use for cocktails and the occasional afternoon sipper. Rating: Very Good
One of the more affordable whiskies here in Mauritius is the Whyte and Mackay Triple matured blended whisky. It had been a while since I last tried anything from this brand, so I decided to give it a go.
Over the years, I have explored a variety of affordable whiskies, including releases from India like Signature Rare whisky and many well-known Scottish whiskies available worldwide. Continuing this journey, I’m now turning my attention to the White Horse Scotch blended whisky.
Famous Grouse, a name that resonates with whisky aficionados worldwide, needs little introduction. Today, let’s delve into the Famous Grouse Bourbon Cask blended Scotch whisky.
With an impressive annual sale of 43 million bottles across more than 90 countries, Famous Grouse is one of the most accessible whisky brands. I can find it even here in Mauritius. Since 1980, it has held the title of Scotland’s highest-selling whisky brand, a testament to its enduring popularity.
Like many of its peers, Famous Grouse traces its origins back to a humble beginning in a local grocery store. Matthew Groag, the visionary behind the brand, embarked on a quest to craft his own premium blended whisky in the heart of Perthshire, Scotland.
Today, the Edrington Group is the torchbearer of his legacy; other whisky in their portfolio include Macallan and Highland Park whisky.
In 2018, the brand broadened its horizons by introducing two new cask-finished expressions. First was the Famous Grouse Bourbon Cask, the inaugural offering within the Cask Series. The Ruby Cask release, which undergoes a finishing process in port casks, joined its ranks soon afterwards.
The Bourbon Cask edition celebrates diverse oak influences, predominantly featuring whiskies aged in American Oak and first-fill bourbon casks. It is a NAS release.
The label is adorned by the iconic red Grouse, Scotland’s revered national game bird, which serves as a poignant symbol of heritage and tradition.
Priced at approximately R 290 in South Africa (€33.50 in Europe, £29 in the UK, and $25 in the USA), the Famous Grouse Bourbon Cask falls comfortably within the budget blend category. This is similar to the standard Famous Grouse retail price.
Also Read: The Top 5 Blends under R500
The Famous Grouse Bourbon Cask Whisky Review
ABV: 43%
COLOUR: Pale gold
NOSE: This is such a typical Famous Grouse nose. It’s fruity and sweet with notes of toasted oak, caramel, pepper, and vanilla. It’s lovely but not the most complex nose.
PALATE: The Famous Grouse Bourbon Cask starts quite spicy with lots of pepper, but after sipping two, it becomes sweeter. There are notes of oak, pepper, and caramel sweetness. Hints of vanilla and a tropical note are in the background. Water smooths the peppery spice, and it becomes very drinkable. It is easy to drink and smooth with a medium body.
FINISH: A medium length with caramel, oak and pepper.
RATING: VERY GOOD
It’s not the most complex dram, but we nevertheless made a dent in the bottle. It’s an uncomplicated dram for when you just want to relax.
Compared to the standard Famous Grouse whisky, the Bourbon Cask is spicier, with more toasted oak and caramel. The standard release has more cherries and candied fruit, while the fruit in the Bourbon Cask is more in the background.
The sweet note on the Bourbon Cask is more reminiscent of caramel, whereas on the standard Grouse, it is more of a honey sweetness. Both of these releases are easy drinking, and I can understand why this is the top-selling dram in Scotland.
Also Read: Pink Valentine’s Day Whisky Cocktails
Welcome to World Whisky time again, where we’re diving into the world of Pike Creek 10 year old whisky. Crafted by Corby Spirit and Wine Limited, this Canadian dram boasts an exciting twist—it’s finished in rum barrels, adding a distinctive flair to its character.
Corby Spirit and Wine Limited traces its roots back to 1859 in Corbyville, Ontario. The company has undergone numerous transformations over the years. Now listed on the Canadian Stock Exchange, the company is partly owned by Pernod Ricard, holding a 46% stake.
Its spirit portfolio includes renowned labels like J.P. Wiser’s whisky, Lot 40 Canadian Whisky, and Hiram Walker’s Special Old Whisky.
Initially introduced in 1998 with a finish in Port casks, Pike Creek whisky transformed in 2016 when the distillery changed to rum barrel finishing. The mash bill, a blend of rye and corn, remains undisclosed.
Ageing occurs in the non-climate-controlled warehouses just outside Windsor, Ontario. This subjects the barrels to extreme temperature shifts, ranging from bone-chilling -35°C in the winter to a sweltering 35°C in the summer.
Also Read: Scottish Cousin Whisky
Pike Creek 10 year old Whisky Review
REGION: Canada
ABV: 42%
COLOUR: Dark gold
NOSE: On the nose, there are sweet honey notes intertwined with the subtle allure of rum sweetness, complemented by a touch of rye spice and a note reminiscent of Dutch speculaas spice. Hints of raisins, prunes, and oak in the background.
PALATE: On the palate, the sweetness prevails, reminiscent of caramel toffee apples, accompanied by a gentle heat of pepper, cardamom, and rye spices. Vanilla and cinnamon intertwine with delicate hints of dried fruit, citrus, and oak. It has a medium body. A drop of water brings a bitter citrus note forward.
FINISH: The finish is short and soft, leaving lingering caramel, nutmeg, and cinnamon notes. The initial sweetness gives way to a delightful spiciness.
RATING: VERY GOOD
The Pike Creek 10 year old emerges as a commendable entry-level Canadian rye whisky similar to the Crown Royal whisky. It offers affordability without compromising quality. Priced around GBP 28 in the U.K. and $40 in Canada, it’s a steal for enthusiasts seeking a flavourful yet approachable dram.
While the rum barrel influence is more pronounced on the nose than on the palate, the warming embrace of rye spices ensures a memorable sipping experience.
Other Pike Creek whiskey releases includes a 15 year old Cabernet Sauvignon Finish as well as a 21 year old whisky aged in Speyside single malt casks. Both are limited edition offerings.
Also Read: Bennachie 10 yo Whisky