Whisky Review/Tasting: Smoky Goat

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Scotland, with references suggesting a connection to the west coast and possibly Islay malts, though not explicitly stated on the label.
Type: Blended Scotch Whisky.
Distillation & Maturation: The specific distillation and maturation processes are not detailed, but the color is attributed to cask aging rather than distillation. The age statement is not provided, but there's an implication that grain whisky used may be as young as three years, based on legal requirements.
Color & Bottle Design: The whisky is described as having a golden color, with the bottle label featuring poetic descriptions of its character ("full-bodied, weathered, windblown, burned to a brilliant gold"). The design and marketing seem aimed at evoking a rugged, natural Scottish landscape.

Balance of Flavors: The whisky is noted for its smokiness, with a peat level estimated at around 20 ppm, which is less intense than typical Islay whiskies. The flavor profile includes bonfire smoke, a hint of salt spray, caramel, vanilla, and a significant presence of grain whisky, leading to a smooth and silky texture.
Unique Characteristics: The smokiness is distinct from the medicinal peat often associated with Islay, leaning more towards a bonfire character. The blend includes a high content of grain whisky, contributing to its smoothness but also a notable bitterness upon swallowing.
Comparison: It's less peaty than typical Islay whiskies and has a significant grain whisky presence, making it smoother but also introducing a bitterness not preferred by all.

Interesting Anecdotes: The whisky is blended by the Whiskey Union, a Diageo-founded company, with a playful approach to branding (e.g., the unconventional spelling of "Whiskey" for a Scotch product). The blender, Craig Wallace, is mentioned, suggesting a personal touch in the creation process.

Historical Context: The Smoky Goat is positioned as a product of Scotland's wild and windswept landscapes, with poetic marketing suggesting a deep connection to the natural elements of the Scottish west coast. The choice of name and branding elements reflects a rugged, adventurous spirit.

Opinions: Horst Luening, the reviewer, expresses a general preference against grain and blended whiskies, though he acknowledges exceptions. He notes the Smoky Goat's smokiness and smoothness but criticizes its bitterness and lack of complexity.
Quotes: "The smoke is not that intense...definitely less than the typical Islay whisky has."

Smoky Goat is a blended Scotch whisky with a notable smokiness and a high grain whisky content.
It features a less intense peatiness compared to typical Islay whiskies, with a flavor profile that includes bonfire smoke, caramel, and vanilla.
The whisky's branding and marketing evoke the rugged landscapes of Scotland's west coast.
The reviewer appreciates the smokiness but criticizes the whisky for its bitterness and lack of complexity, attributing this to the high grain whisky content.

For Peat Lovers: Those interested in exploring smoky whiskies with a less medicinal peat character might find Smoky Goat intriguing, though it may not satisfy those seeking the intensity of a typical Islay.
For Blended Whisky Enthusiasts: Individuals who appreciate the smoothness and approachability of blended Scotch might enjoy Smoky Goat, especially if they are open to a smokier profile.
For Beginners: The whisky's smoothness and lower peat intensity make it a potentially good introduction to smoky Scotch for newcomers, though the bitterness might not appeal to all.
For Connoisseurs Seeking Complexity: Experienced whisky drinkers looking for complex, aged single malts might find Smoky Goat lacking in depth and complexity.