The Antiquary 21 Year Blended Scotch Whiskey - 750ml

Made by Tomatin, Antiquary is “the rare old blend,” a hodgepodge of whiskies from all over Scotland (including a touch of Islay in it) that seems to want to out-walk Johnnie Walker.

The 21 year old expression (gold label bottling; there are others) is a malty whisky that’s mellow with notes of fresh barley and thick oatmeal, a touch of cinnamon, a bit of apple fruit, and a solid vanilla caramel character. A very slight touch of peat smoke is evident, more on the palate than the nose. Nothing shocking here; if you’re at all familiar with blended scotch you’ll find The Antiquary a fine example of the style, taking minimal chances while providing an easy-drinking, well-rounded whisky with just the slightest amount of edge on it – a real tour of the region.