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Old Smuggler (blend)

Caramel

0 278

@markjedi1Review by @markjedi1

21st Sep 2011

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  • Nose
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  • Taste
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  • Finish
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  • Balance
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  • Overall
    78

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  • Brand: Old Smuggler
  • ABV: 40%

The label proudly states ‘Scotch with a History’. This must refer to the fact that this blend already exists since 1835. The name refers, among other, to the fact that it was one of the whiskies smuggled to the US during Prohibition. It’s still very popular in the US today. The brand – together with Glen Grant – became the property of the Campari group in 2006. The most important markets, besides the US, are Argentina and… Belgium.

The nose is not very expressive, but not unpleasant. Honey and caramel. A lot of caramel. And a hint of smoke. Grain.

The whisky is very buttery on the palate, but the sweetness seems a bit forced. Chemical. As if it isn’t naturaly. A bit of bubblegum. Again somewhat smokey, but not much more than that.

The is hardly any finish to speak of. Grains, smoke and more bubblegum.

You’ll find this whisky in the supermarket on the bottom shelf – pun intended. Oddly enough, the recipe in Argentina is different. For the South-American version of Old Smuggler, the grain whisky is in fact produced in Argentina. Let’s not beat around the bush. Old Smuggler is a cheap whisky to be compared only with Johnnie Walker Red or William Lawson’s. Hence, the price is more than fair.

2 comments

@Newkophile
Newkophile commented

I noticed that Ralfy has just favorably reviewed a bottle of Old Smuggler, white label, 43% ABV. Here in the U.S., it seems that only the black label, 40% ABV of Old Smuggler is available which is what you undoubtedly reviewed some time ago. Would love to see and cop a bottle of the white label.

9 years ago 0

Drunkagain commented

I was looking for an inexpensive bottle to take along sailing & fishing... Watched Ralfy's review & ran down to Total Wine & More to by a bottle and it appeared they were sold out... Found one last bottle @ the back of the shelf out of sight... I see why they were all sold.. It is some very nice stuff... It's not a fancy scotch, but a very pleasing pour. When I finish this $20, 1.75L bottle I will definitely buy another.

9 years ago 0

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