Whisky Review/Tasting: Loch Ness 5 years

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: The whisky is a blended Scotch, with no specific distillery mentioned, but it is associated with the Loch Ness area in Scotland. The actual bottling is linked to Huntly, Scotland, suggesting a connection to the independent bottler Duncan Taylor.
Type: Blended Scotch Whisky.
Distillation and Maturation Process: The whisky is matured for five years, which is notably longer than the minimum three years required for Scotch whisky. The grain whisky component is likely matured in reused casks, as is common, but the specific casks used for this blend are noted for not imparting bitterness, suggesting they may be of higher quality or differently treated than those used for some other cheap blends.
Age Statement: 5 years, explicitly stated in letters on the label.
Color and Clarity: Not explicitly described, but the whisky is implied to have a rich color due to the presence of vanilla and caramel flavors.
Bottle Design: Features an illustration of a fisherman in a boat with the Loch Ness Monster above him, playing into the Loch Ness myth.

Balance of Flavors: The whisky has a complex smell for a blend in its price range, with a notable balance between vanilla, caramel, and mature aromas like tobacco.
Unique Characteristics: The absence of bitterness, typically associated with cheap grain whisky casks, stands out. The whisky also features an oiliness typical of grain whisky and maltiness, with a not very long aftertaste.
Comparison: While not directly compared to other whiskies, it is implied to be far better than average for its price range, suggesting it might compare favorably to other cheap blends.

Interesting Stories: The name and bottle design play into the myth of the Loch Ness Monster, with a humorous suggestion that drinking the whisky might lead to seeing monsters or "white mice." The connection to the Duncan Taylor company and the mention of the Peerless Collection add a layer of intrigue regarding the whisky's bottling pedigree.

Historical Context: The whisky leverages the legend of the Loch Ness Monster and the mystique of the Scottish Highlands to create a narrative around the product. The mention of Loch Ness as an "enchanted place" and the historical sightings of the monster add to the whisky's storytelling appeal.

Opinions: Horst Luening, the mastertaster, highly recommends the whisky, praising its complexity and value for money. He appreciates the absence of bitterness and the presence of mature aromas in a blend at this price point.
Quotes: "Indeed a monstrous good blend and for slightly above 20 euros you get a cork, a real cork, and this is something special."

Blended Scotch Whisky, aged 5 years, associated with the Loch Ness legend.
Complex flavor profile with vanilla, caramel, and mature tobacco aromas.
Lacks the bitterness often found in cheap blends, with a notable grain oiliness and maltiness.
Bottle design and marketing play into the Loch Ness Monster myth.
Highly recommended by Horst Luening for its quality and value.
Cultural significance tied to the Scottish Highlands and Loch Ness Monster lore.

Whisky Enthusiasts looking for an affordable yet complex blend.
Tourists and Souvenir Shoppers drawn to the Loch Ness Monster theme.
Beginners interested in exploring Scotch whisky without a significant financial commitment.
Collectors of whiskies with unique stories or cultural significance.