Meanwhile, in Illinois (and Wisconsin, where we're moving in June), you can buy hard liquor at the gas station! Stores just have a spirits aisle; it's no big deal here.

Pranay - Delaware and D.C. Costcos can sell alcohol. They actually have a separate adjunct store next to the main store.

@cascode: What other blends are you referring to? There are a few that are definitely better, such as JW Black, but that one is also more expensive.

A re-grounding by tasting blends is a good idea, and can be very instructive as well as surprising. The group I get together with every few weeks for a day of cards and whisky has done this on our last 3 meets, but I haven't posted most of my comments yet. Our unanimous view of Grouse standard was that it is a perfectly good mixer, and even drinkable neat if you're on a tight budget or have no other choice, but if you do have a choice it is outclassed by other blends at the same price.

I've been wondering about the Kirkland whiskies (Costco house brand...it's a US-based, member-only wholesale store with lower prices than the supermarkets or "big box" stores. They also take great care of their employees!) I know that Alexander Murray & Co. provides the single malt (and presumably blend), but they can't divulge the distillery other than that it's a Highland malt...because that narrows it down. For $50 for a 16 year old single malt, though, I might have to break down and give it a try. As for Famous Grouse...it makes a decent scotch and soda, and I let raisins soak overnight in it and them put them in my oatmeal, but just on its own it doesn't excite me much anymore.

Wait...Costco has alcohol!!??? I guess NJ's insane archaic pre-prohibition laws don't allow for major chains to sell alcohol.

@GeologyJack: If you are referring to JW Blue & collegues, I'd say no. I am not a fan of overpriced, generic, deluxe premium blends that are made for people with more money than sense. If I was given the chance of a free tasting, I'd probably give it a go but I think I already know the outcome...

Does recalibration extend to the Costco labeled scotch whiskies? I've seen them but have not decided yet that they are worth taking the risk.

Great review, Slainte. I've passed by this blend many, many times only to grab JW or Monkey Shoulder. I've relegated myself from this brand along with Cutty Sark because I've had too many Compass Box offerings. I really should give those 2 cheap blends a try sometime, but seeing everyone's reviews I just walk right by. I guess I am "that snob" people whisper about, lol.

I bought and finished this bottle two years ago (wow, can't believe its been that long). I would be curious to try again as @Erogers100 points out the our differences yet similar rating. Did the flavor profile change that much in two years? Is it truly a subjective difference? I still do, however, distinctively recall the orange zest. All that being said, though the some differences, we both relatively agree, its average, at best. Probably best used as a mixer.

Well, after rating Caol Ila 30yr and GlenDronach 15yr Revival, I had a hard time giving this blend a fair chance. Some might ask: why bother drinking this? I think it is important to cover the full spectrum of options available, to fully appreciate the quality of 'the better stuff'. Who wants to become a malt snob, only sticking to your fine Macallan's and Lagavulin's? No, no, no. It's like you said: diversity is the key. Diversity of flavors and of different opinions!

I love the individuality and diversity of opinion that flourishes here. The difference in score between your rating and Scott E's might only be 4 pts, but your descriptions couldn't be more different. Personally, I've been waiting to get through a few more legendary single malts before trying Grouse, but am looking forward to giving it a go. Curious to see what the most consumed everyday dram in Scotland tastes like.