Collectivum XXVIII (2017 Special Release)

A Blend of 28 malts, by Diageo. Sounds like a Cask Strength Johnnie Walker Green Label to me. Well... i was wrong. Collectivum XVIII is a rather expensive (about $200) blended malt from the entire single malt portfolio of the Whisky Giants, Diageo. Labeled as the Blend to end all blends, i am happy to tell you this has been bottled at 57.3%abv. On the nose, Chocolate, cream and citric oranges. Orange peel. Ferrero rocher, it is like a nutty butter. Letting it breath revealed dried oranges. On the Palate, again this Chocolate profile. Ferrero rocher. Orange acidity. I am getting some raisin acidity and astringency. Increibly chocolaty. Very nice dram. Aftertaste is suitable for a strong, powerful dram, very well crafted. Impalpable sugar, and acid oranges. Some spiciness and mild peat. The aftertaste is quite something. Hazelnut, ginger, mouth numbimg. Puffs of smoke. Overall, i really didn't have any expectations for this whisky, and i was truly surprised. A super complex, powerful, enjoyable dram; this is one i will remember for a long time. It wasn't really overly peaty, and it has a perfect balance. My score for this beauty is 94 over 100.

Nose: Sherry, chocolate covered raisins, cinnamon, light peat Taste: Full mouth feel, very rich with baked apples, baking spices, old oak, leather and dark chocolate Finish: Medium length with baking spices, sherry, chocolate and old oak

Very spicy, very smooth. Not Smokey at all