Whisky Review/Tasting: Monster's Choice

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Speyside, Scotland.
Type: Blended whisky, a mix of grain and malt whisky.
Distillation & Maturation: No specific details provided, but it's suggested that the whisky is at least three years old due to the lack of an age statement.
Color & Clarity: The whisky is likely colored, as mentioned by the reviewer.
Bottle Design: The bottle features a back label known from Gordon & MacPhail whiskies, suggesting a connection to this famous independent bottler. The label also features the Loch Ness Monster, tying into the whisky's name and theme.

Nose: Fruity, typical of Speyside whiskies, with maltiness and some cereal notes. Not very complex but straightforward.
Palate: Starts smooth and oily, then spiciness and roast aromas kick in, followed by bitterness. The taste is somewhat dominated by oaky notes, likely from heavily reused oak casks.
Finish: The aftertaste is not too long, with lingering oaky bitterness.

The whisky is named "Monster's Choice," a playful nod to the Loch Ness Monster, adding a whimsical element to its branding.
It's bottled by Strathnairn Whiskey Limited for Kintail House in Inverness, with a strong implication that Gordon & MacPhail, a highly respected independent bottler in Scotland, is involved in its production or distribution.

The whisky draws on the cultural icon of the Loch Ness Monster, connecting it to the region of Inverness and the Speyside area of Scotland, known for its whisky production.

Horst Luening, the master taster, describes the whisky as having a "good aroma" and being straightforward, with a significant amount of malt whisky in the blend. However, he also notes the taste is "a little bit too oaky" and suggests it might be best served to casual whisky drinkers or guests.

Monster's Choice is a blended Speyside whisky, likely colored and at least three years old.
It features a fruity nose with malt and cereal notes, a smooth to spicy palate with oaky bitterness, and a short finish.
The whisky is connected to Gordon & MacPhail, suggested by the bottle's label design.
It draws cultural significance from the Loch Ness Monster, tying it to its Scottish origins.
Recommended for casual drinking or serving to guests who are not whisky aficionados.

For Whisky Beginners: This whisky, with its straightforward profile and playful branding, could be an appealing choice for those new to whisky or looking for an easy-drinking option.
For Casual Drinkers: The smooth start and not overly complex flavor profile make it suitable for casual enjoyment, especially in a social setting.
For Collectors: The connection to Gordon & MacPhail and the unique theme might make it an interesting, albeit not essential, addition to a collection.
For Connoisseurs: Given the reviewer's notes on the dominance of oak and lack of complexity, connoisseurs might find it less appealing as a sipping whisky but could appreciate trying it for comparison or novelty.