I bought The Antiquary Blended Scotch Whisky for the bottle and label design alone. To no one's surprise, I went weak in my knees for its Victorian font and the embossed geometric cut bottle sealed the deal.
This 12 year old offering has a faint scent of whispering smoke over salted caramel. The nose does deepen slightly over time with honey, barley and light mustiness.
While neat, I'm struck by a similar savory-sweet tango dancing in front of a background of gentle pepper and peat. I enjoy its smooth, medium bodied mouthfeel.
That main flavour disappears quickly amidst a moderate length, drying finish of subtle oak and fruit salad. Like when a great song abruptly changes when you're dancing with the perfect partner, it's a bit disappointing.
This feels like an "easy" whisky for folks who would prefer less intrusive flavours and finishes. I'd consider this as a sweet-inspired inexpensive weeknight dram that grows on you while you drink it. The Antiquary's bottle is a striking addition to a bar, but I wish the top had a cork rather than a twist top with plastic insert pourer.
Have you tried this fancy looking bottle?
7/10
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