Pure Scot

Whisky Review/Tasting: Pure Scot

Physical Whisky Characteristics

  • Origin: Pure Scot is a blended whisky from the Bladnock Distillery, which has been established since 1817 and is located on the Black Knock River.
  • Type: It is a blended Scotch whisky, incorporating a mixture of eight-year-old Bladnock single malt, Highland and Speyside malt whiskies, and selected grain whiskies.
  • Distillation & Maturation: The whisky is distilled, matured, and bottled in Scotland. Specific details about the distillation and maturation process are not provided, but the blend includes malt and grain whiskies from various distilleries.
  • Age Statement: The blend includes eight-year-old Bladnock single malt.
  • Color & Clarity: Not explicitly described, but the whisky is implied to have a light aroma, which may suggest a lighter color.
  • Bottle Design: Described as a luxurious and heavy bottle, making it a good gift option. The bottle features a picture of the Bladnock Distillery and boasts a wonderful cork.

Whisky Flavor Profile

  • Balance of Flavors: The whisky offers a balance between light fruitiness and dark fruitiness, with a noticeable but not overpowering smokiness (3-5 ppm).
  • Unique Characteristics: It has a high malt content compared to other blended whiskies, contributing to its light yet intense flavor profile. The taste is more intense than the aroma, with spicy, peppery notes, and a lack of bitterness in the aftertaste, which is common in many blended whiskies.
  • Comparison: While not directly compared to other whiskies, its high malt content and the absence of bitterness set it apart from typical blended whiskies.

Whisky Storytelling

  • Interesting Stories: The Bladnock Distillery was sold to an Australian businessman who launched a new series of whisky, with Pure Scot being part of this new venture. The distillery celebrates 200 years of heritage, and the master distiller, Ian MacMillan, created this blend for the anniversary.

Cultural or Geographical Significance

  • Historical Context: The Bladnock Distillery has a long history dating back to 1817, with Pure Scot embodying 200 years of whisky-making heritage. The involvement of an Australian businessman in reviving the distillery adds an interesting international dimension to its story.

Expert Opinions and Noteworthy Quotes

  • Opinions: Horst Luening, the mastertaster, praises the blend for its luxurious bottle design, high malt content, and the balance between light and intense flavors. He appreciates the lack of bitterness in the aftertaste and suggests that the whisky would work well in cocktails.
  • Quotes: "This one is a good blend. If you're willing to pay 40 euros, dollars, pounds for this bottle, no idea. But be aware you're helping the Bladnock distillery to build up a revenue stream so that they can move forward."

Summary

  • Pure Scot is a blended Scotch whisky from the Bladnock Distillery, featuring a mixture of eight-year-old Bladnock single malt, Highland and Speyside malt whiskies, and selected grain whiskies.
  • The whisky has a high malt content, offering a balance of light and dark fruitiness with a subtle smokiness.
  • It is celebrated for its luxurious bottle design and is considered a good gift option.
  • The blend was created to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the Bladnock Distillery, highlighting its long-standing heritage.
  • Horst Luening recommends Pure Scot for its unique flavor profile and suggests it as a versatile option for whisky cocktails.

Recommendations for Different User Profiles

  • Whisky Enthusiasts: Individuals interested in the heritage and craftsmanship of Scotch whisky will appreciate Pure Scot's rich history and the distillery's revival story.
  • Gift Seekers: The luxurious bottle design makes Pure Scot an excellent gift for whisky lovers.
  • Cocktail Aficionados: Those who enjoy experimenting with whisky-based cocktails may find Pure Scot's balance of flavors and high malt content appealing.
  • Blended Whisky Skeptics: Whisky drinkers who typically shy away from blended whiskies due to their sometimes bitter aftertaste might be pleasantly surprised by Pure Scot's smooth and intense flavor profile.