A new-ish version of the Famous Grouse that uses some  Islay malts in the blend or as the label says “A marriage of fine, peated Scotch whiskies and THE FAMOUS GROUSE”.  The nose is much like many blends with the grain whisky jumping out at the start. However this is soon replaced by delicate sweet peat smoke that is very pleasant, the peat smoke aromas are not over whelming. There are also some vague cereal notes along with honey, toffee and vanilla. The taste is once again briefly of the grain but quickly is over taken by the sweet peat smoke. The taste is quite lovely and the inclination is to have a second really big mouthful. The grain is actually very pleasant and the combination of peat smoke and sweetness is very well integrated. This is very easy and pleasant drinking. Beware! The finish is warming with the delicate peat, some dry bitter oak and cocoa (unsweetened) and some chewy peated malt. This effect goes on for quite a long time and the cocoa  and oaky dry bitterness are hand in hand.

Peat smoke, the new black. A great dram to share with friends whom might not have a prior acquaintance with whisky.

C$40

Score 84 Points

http://www.thefamousgrouse.com/ls/en/