What's in a name? The Black Grouse whisky is called whisky because it's produced in Scotland. Were it from America it would be spelled The Black Grouse whiskey, rather than whisky.
Nose: Medium, quite smoky. Solid peat note, rummy sweetness, touch of dry wood.
Palate: Medium, balanced. Peat smoke, caramel, spice.
Finish: Long, slightly peaty.
When I first tried this I thought it was a single malt. A lot of complexity, really a very well made dram. Not so Islay as it is a rich Highland taste. Great finish too.
Agree totally with the Best Blend's comments. Is an excellent drink its a pity it doenst get as many mentions as the Famous Grouse
I usually drink Islay malts, but on a recent trip away for work, didn't fancy splashing out the $50+ you'd pay for one in Canada. I knew Black Grouse was a bit more Islay accented than Famous Grouse so bought a bottle to keep me company for the duration and I wasn't disappointed. A slight hint of peatiness betrays its Islay roots, but otherwise it is an extremely smooth and easy drinking whisky. For a blend it is quite complex with hints of golden syrup on the nose with an underlying smokiness and a subtle heather sweetness on the palate with that exciting peaty undertone to keep Islay lovers like me happy.
This a good smoky, moderately sweet, lightly tarry blended whisky. The Overall balance is excellent. I think the JW black label is still better. If Black Grouse would be 12 yo, it could make a real difference.
I have 7 or 8 on my shelf, but I keep returning to this in the evenings! Not too peaty, light and better than any other blend I have tried.
I really enjoy the Islay singles. I wouldn't consider them an every day dram, but in the right time and place there is nothing like them. Laphroaig is great for those dark cold nights and memories of place I'm glad I don't need to go to again. Black Grouse brings those flavors to mind in a most enjoyable way.