Whisky Review/Tasting: Collectivum XXVIII

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Scotland, encompassing distilleries from Diageo across various regions including Speyside, Islay, Isle of Skye, Lowland, Highland, and Northern Western Coastal areas.
Type: Blended Malt Scotch Whisky.
Distillation & Maturation: A collective of 28 malt whiskies from all working whisky distilleries of Diageo in Scotland. Specific distillation and maturation processes are not detailed, but the presence of older whiskies is suggested by flavor notes.
Age Statement: No age statement; the number XXVIII refers to the number of distilleries involved, not the age.
Physical Description: The whisky is described as having a pale clear amber color with moderate beading. The bottle design is noted for its blue hue, which matches the host's shirt for the day, and it includes a list of the distilleries on the inside. The presentation is enhanced by a leaflet or small book detailing the special releases of 2017.

Overall Balance: Well-balanced with a complex array of aromas and flavors. The integration of different elements exceeds the sum of its parts, offering depth from dry and nutty to rich and chocolatey, with zestiness and sweetness.
Unique Characteristics: Notable for its collective representation of Diageo's distilleries, offering a broad spectrum of Scotch whisky flavors. The addition of water is recommended to open up the flavors further, introducing notes of sweet shop candy, dried apple rings, and floral touches.
Comparison: While not directly compared to other whiskies, its unique blend of 28 distilleries' outputs makes it a standout for complexity and variety within the Scotch whisky category.

Anecdotes: The host expresses gratitude for receiving samples from Diageo and highlights the limited availability and high ABV of the whisky. The detailed listing of the distilleries involved and the careful selection of whiskies for blending are emphasized.
Production Insights: The inclusion of smoky casks from Kalila and Lagavulin is specifically mentioned, suggesting a deliberate choice to add depth without overwhelming the blend with smokiness.

The Collectivum XXVIII represents a comprehensive snapshot of Diageo's Scotch whisky production across Scotland's diverse whisky-producing regions. This geographical and cultural diversity contributes to the whisky's complex flavor profile and its significance as a collective representation of Scottish distilling heritage.

Value for Money: The host considers the Collectivum XXVIII to offer good value for money, especially when diluted to personal taste, due to its complexity and the quality of the blend.
Personal Impressions: Described as "really a good one" and "a wonderful piece of work," the host appreciates the whisky's complexity, balance, and the subtle integration of smoky notes.

Collectivum XXVIII is a blended malt Scotch whisky from Diageo, featuring a mix of 28 malt whiskies from across Scotland.
It showcases a complex flavor profile, well-balanced with notes ranging from dry and nutty to rich and chocolatey.
The whisky represents a collective snapshot of Diageo's distilling heritage, with geographical and cultural significance.
Expert opinions highlight its value for money and the impressive complexity and quality of the blend.

Whisky Connoisseurs: Individuals with a deep appreciation for the nuances of Scotch whisky will enjoy exploring the complex blend of flavors from 28 different distilleries.
Collectors: Given its limited release and unique concept, collectors seeking rare or special edition whiskies might find the Collectivum XXVIII particularly appealing.
Adventurous Drinkers: Those looking to expand their whisky palate and experience a wide range of Scotch whisky flavors in a single bottle will find this blend intriguing.