.the black grouse

40% abv, €25, blend

Nose: tannins, gentle smoke, iron, sweet, honey, floral, heather
Palate: sweet, smoke, spicy, white pepper, fruity, berries, blueberries, honey, floral, heather
Finish: long, sweet, honey, smoky, dry
Mark: +++++

Conclusion: unexpected; /me likey. I think I find something of Laphroaig in this blend, not that that would matter in any way, but I just happen to like the scent and taste of it. I recon it would be a good alternative for your Black Bottle, Smokey Joe or Islay Mist blends. Good to have on stock, or to suggest to first time Islay drinkers. I am honestly impressed.

More info from the website: The Black Grouse (Tetrao tetrix) is a rare relative of Scotland’s national game bird, the Red Grouse. Similarly, The Black Grouse Blended Scotch Whisky, born out of a marriage of The Famous Grouse with Islay malt whiskies, is a breed apart. The smoky influence of the peated malts is balanced by the trademark smoothness of The Famous Grouse to create underlying hints of cocoa and spice. With a long, smoky, aromatic finish, it’s hardly surprising that The Black Grouse has been listed as The Best New Scotch Blended Whisky in Jim Murray’s 2008 Whisky Bible.

also:
We work closely with the RSPB and money from every bottle sold of The Black Grouse is donated to them.