There was quite the hullabaloo when Diageo announced that its 2017 Special Releases series would include a blended malt for the first time. Luckily, Collectivum XXVIII lives up to the hype. Not only does the expression include malt from every single operational Diageo distillery*, its also really rather lovely. It's the only blend of its kind ever released, and at 57.3% ABV, it packs quite the (tasty) punch.
*There's 28. We counted them: Auchroisk, Benrinnes, Blair Athol, Caol Ila, Cardhu, Clynelish, Cragganmore, Dailuaine, Dalwhinnie, Dufftown, Glendullan, Glen Elgin, Glenkinchie, Glenlossie, Glen Ord, Glen Spey, Inchgower, Knockando, Lagavulin, Linkwood, Mannochmore, Mortlach, Oban, Roseisle, Royal Lochnagar, Strathmill, Talisker and Teaninich.
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Tasting Note by The Chaps at Master of Malt
Nose Waxy with some ginger off that bat - Clynelish appears to play a meaningful role here. Perfumed with a touch of tonic before a little water reveals stewed fruits and Turkish delight.
Palate Aniseed stands out with caramel. Pleasant creamy mouthfeel. Hints of allspice and clove but the spice never threatens to overpower.
Finish Spicy and nutty with a hint of smoke.