I gave the Loch Lomond Blended Scotch a 3.5, and this a 3.7. To me the taste is almost identical; malt, biscuit or pie crust, a touch of orchard fruit, and a touch of smoke. This is a little superior to the blended version because the mouthfeel is softer, the flavors are slightly more intense, and the finish is a little longer. Which you purchase boils down to the price ratio imo.