Antiquary

The Antiquary – a blend that is marketed by the owners of Tomatin – recently got an overhaul. The bottle still has its signature diamond shape, but is taller and more modern. Apart from the classic 12 and 21 Year Old, there is also one without an age statement. That’s the one I will try today. Dirt cheap, for sure. Apart from Tomatin and grain, this is also rumored to have other malts from the Highlands, Speyside and even Lowlands.

Sweet malt, grain cookies, green garden herbs, vanilla, oranges and stale beer. That is the nose of this Antiquary in a nutshell. And to be honest: it does not rock my boat. Far from it.

The body is okay-ish, but on the palate I first get the ale, then some citrus and white fruit, followed by some pepper, ginger and something that reminds me of ferns. A little bit piquant and even somewhat spirity.

In the short finish I get some more white fruit and a touch of woodsmoke.

Apparently this bottle won a silver medal at the IWSC in 2015. I’m not impressed. Could it be because I am sipping it on the hottest day of the last century?

Find where to buy Antiquary whisky