The Famous Grouse

The Famous Grouse
Blended Scotch Whisky
$22

Today I will post notes on my favorite whisky under $25, one that I think is excellent neat or on ice, and is a great value.

First produced in 1897 by Matthew Gloag & Son, Ltd. in Perth, Scotland, it is named after the Red Grouse, Scotland's national game bird. It combines smooth North British grain whisky with a selection of malt whiskies, notable among which are The Macallan and Highland Park. The bottle advertises its "smoothest possible taste" along with the fact that it is Scotland's most popular whisky.

Nose: Buttery grain scents, like dough baking in the oven. Cinnamon and nutmeg with Cream of Wheat. Smells like drinking whisky in a pastry shop.

Palate: Smooth barley and cream flavor. A touch of pepper and light smoke on the finish, as the other flavors fade.

This really is one of my favorites. Easy to drink and, at $22, easy to replace on the shelf. A great example of why blended whiskies should not be ignored in favor of more expensive stuff.