There have been already a number of blended Scotch manufacturers in Beam Suntory’s huge spirits secure, however none fairly like this newest effort, Ardray, which launched in late 2023. This whisky, greater than any of their different blends, seems geared towards the keen, new Scotch drinker or the only malt purist who nonetheless contends that blended Scotch is reasonable and flavorless. Chief Blender Calum Fraser teamed up with Suntory’s personal blenders for this launch and drew from an impressively broad menu of grain and single malt whiskies when designing the recipe, reportedly sampling near 200 completely different expressions. The ultimate combine was sourced not simply from Beam Suntory heavyweights like Bowmore and Laphroaig but in addition from associate distilleries underneath the Edrington Group umbrella like The Macallan and Highland Park. Whiskies aged as much as 20 years have been chosen from a handful of these distilleries and introduced collectively in a solera system that’s going to be tapped yearly for an annual launch. Let’s test it out.
On the nostril, high notes of darkish vanilla bean, pastry cream, and aromatic pipe smoke supply a chic, nearly sultry, first impression. Vanilla is a trademark of blends, however typically in a really generic and watered down kind. The depth right here distinguishes issues, together with suave undertones of orchard fruit – inexperienced apple and baked pear – and a darkly candy sugarplum be aware that builds with time within the glass. The palate is large and energetic, particularly for a mix, with an early rush of wooden spice and brilliant, juicy citrus notes that mood on the midpalate with the addition of a little bit brown butter, crème brulee, and chimney soot earlier than the arrival of a heat reprise of baking spice – cinnamon and clove principally. The end simmers with cracked black pepper, well-baked pear tart, and mild peat smoke. It’s definitely a “characterful” mix, because the Ardray group meant, and one that ought to impress Scotch lovers throughout the board.
96 proof.
A- / $85
Ardray Blended Scotch Whisky
$85
