Black & White / Bot.1950s

Black & White initially was named House of Commons, but when the members of Parliamant simply referred to their favorite bottle by its color (black bottle, white label), it did not take long for James Buchanan to rename his brand. The dogs – Bobby & Fanny – were added much later. Thank to my friend Emile I was able to get a sample from a 1950s bottle. Liquid history, indeed. What a beautiful bronze color.

Admiddetly, the nose shows quite some OBE. But that does not undo the fact that it smells dark and sweet with a trace of smoke. Bitter chocolate, oranges that are rotting slightly (not an off-note!), mokatine and a sour touch as if from gooseberries. Layered, sweet and pleasant.

A mild metallic note precedes the dark and sweet fruit on the palate. Quite spicy. Cloves and a pinch of cinnamon. Dark honey, candied oranges, dried apricots. Midpalate some smoke develops and it even offers a bit of a salty edge. Very, very good. Pleasant surprise.

While the finish is rather short, I could no longer care less. I’m happy. Smoke and mint in the finale.

This one is not ‘over the top’ despite sitting more than half a century in the bottle. Much more tasty and complex than today’s version. Thanks, Emile!