In the expansive realm of whiskies, from limited editions to exclusive drams, I enjoy exploring budget-friendly options to find that affordable gem. Among the notable names that consistently top my Google search stats is Vat 69 Scotch whisky. So, let’s go and explore this well-known Scottish whisky.
Crafted by the Leith-born blender William Sanderson in 1882, Vat 69 is a blended Scotch whisky that has made its mark worldwide. In his quest for the perfect blend, Sanderson created 100 vats of uniquely blended whiskies.
Then, he asked a panel of friends and experts to taste each one of them. Slowly working their way through 100 casks must have been a daunting task. At the end of this tasting, Vat No. 69 that stood out as the winner.
The blend was well established by the time of Sanderson’s passing in 1908. It even accompanied Sir Ernest Shackleton on his 1914 Imperial Trans-Antarctic Expedition for medicinal and celebratory purposes.
At the start, Glen Garioch formed the heart of the blend. Today, the recipe incorporates a blend of 40 malts and grains. It does not have an age statement.
Affordability is a defining trait, with Vat 69 retailing for around Rs 1000 in Mauritius and approximately R 185 in South Africa. It is available in the UK for around £30. Here in Mauritius, it is one of the most affordable global whiskies. In India it retails for around ₹ 1,856.
Emblazoned on the cap are the words’ Sans Dieu Rien,’ translating to ‘Without God, nothing.’ Vat 69 is part of the Diageo stable.
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Review and Tasting Notes for Vat 69 Whisky
ABV: 40%
COLOUR: Light Gold
NOSE: Grain sweetness with a hint of alcohol on the nose, accompanied by toasted wood, caramel, and soft apple and pear notes.
PALATE: The palate surprises with creaminess, showcasing wood, cinnamon, grain sweetness, and hints of caramel apples and vanilla. Water tempers the sweetness, bringing forward black pepper and subtle ripe oranges.
FINISH: The finish echoes wood, pepper, and faint fruit notes.
RATING: VERY GOOD
While not the most intricate dram, Vat 69 Scotch whisky embraces simplicity with a ‘what you see is what you get’. The notes from the nose mirror the palate. Despite lacking in complex nuances, this whisky is very drinkable.
With a light body and abundant grain sweetness, it offers smoothness and remarkable value for money. Personally, I found it more enjoyable than the Johnnie Walker Red Label whisky, which, in comparison, had a slight alcohol burn, requiring a few extra drops of water to cool down.
This whisky is an excellent choice for cocktails. Whether crafting a Rob Roy or Rusty Nail, Vat 69 is the perfect pour, adding a touch of smooth sweetness to your next concoction.
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