Tastes

Certainly more character than the 10 year, but not saying much for the Glenmorangie style (not a knock, they are just all light and sweet and easy... And given the price point, an easy, palatable, go-to, entry level single malt for new Scotch drinkers). A puff of burn and nasal spice that is largely gone by the 3rd or 4th sip. Sweetness dominates. Raisin notes rise to the top, some orange rind. A dash of oak and the edges rounded out by enough smoke and brine to know its a scotch, but no more. Smooth and approachable, this offering is ultimately forgettable in that the sherry finishing makes it more similar to many highland brands, but good in that it is affordable and widely available. Not a bad Scotch, very good as an introduction, but not one that differentiates enough to recommend highly. Wouldn't fault anyone for having it in their collection as an easy-drinking option, or to offer to the lighter palates.

1 cube, 3 stones. I'm sitting next to the glass, and it is giving off a wonderful aroma even 2 feet away. Catching the bourbon scent adrift on the wind was actually more enticing than the nose, although the chilled serving may have deadened the playfulness a touch. First taste is astringent, with a good amount of heat. Sugar is present, but only arrives later on, and is more of a burnt sugar than sweet. Citrus rind mixes with vanilla. Some bitterness. Only a first impression, but doesn't match my preferred flavor profile. So, for now, not my favorite mass-market "premium" bourbon. In fairness, second half of the glass paired with a creamy 5 Vegas Gold cigar has been more enjoyable... but perhaps that would be true of any spicy dram.

Very enjoyable, although not my #1 rye. Would drink again. 2nd tasting: super smooth. Nothing harsh in there. An intriguing blend of licorice and cinnamon. Nice melting a few cubes.

Not impressed, there are much better rye whiskies out there for less. Direct tasting versus Sazerac and Rittenhouse... This was the clear loser, and the most expensive to boot. Perhaps it lost some ground to my taste due to complexity that I wasn't appreciating, but I'm not ordering it again soon.

Harsh. If you are a scotch drinker, not sure why you would be this cheap. Probably not as bad as I'm passing it off to be, but do yourself a favor and take a step up.

An impressive malt... Was a bit overpowering to my tastes when I had it - both smoke and medicine. Dilution helped measureably, but I need to try it again. Still working into the islays and peat over time.

A respectable entry, but its merits don't appeal to my tastes over richer and rounder options at the same price point. As the label suggests, it is smooth and rich but I taste a lot of oak. To me it comes off like an over-oaked Chardonnay, just a little harsh instead of complex and interesting. I think it's well-made and okay (and oaky), just not something for my shelves. UPDATE 2nd tasting: much smoother than I remember. Predominantly sweet and balanced. Sherry isn't overpowering, just a seasoning. Add a star.

Definitely a good scotch... But didn't do anything special for me. As such, not worth the extra price tag. The baseline was already smooth and sweet. The 2 years in rum casks gave the scotch a chance to get... Smooth and sweet. Unless the maker is after some serious molasses flavors unique to sugarcane, I don't think scotch is really enhanced by a light sprinkling of rum notes. Now Port on the other hand...

Truly a middle of the road blended Scotch. Has components from all types - briney, smokey, sweet, rich. The main downsides are a not insignificant burn, and really too many flavors to give it a personality and theme. Overall though, one heck of a scotch for the price. A go-to "well" drink with no regrets.

Not a fan. This has a burn in it unlike any but rotgut scotch. If you need "well" scotch, do yourself a favor and go with FG. It at least has some redeeming qualities and interesting flavors to go along with half the burn.