A very smooth blended Scotch with a distinct honey flavour. In 1997 it won the International Spirits Challenge.
BNJ's not so poor cousin? Perky acetone nose reminds me of Jura Origin- (kind of a hypey name is J.O.)-- But the flavour aspects remind me of The Baillie Nicol Jarvie blend- BNJ has become hard to find- even in Edinburgh- where it's blended- and where I live (over the river from Leith-Edinburgh)- If I can find it- here in Fife- it hurts my humble budget- So-- I was really pleased to discover Highland Leader as a decent and easily sourced alternative-- It's more than just about in same league--
I'm no expert, but I have had my fair share of young (3-5 year-) whiskies, and this is head and shoulders above the rest (though I do like Glen Ross and James King). What's interesting is that the nose is decidely not medinical as is standard for cheaper fare. Moreover, it has a surprising smokey edge that is quite pleasant. For its category I'd give it 5 stars, but I'm giving it 4 in deference to the top line whiskies. And actually, Scottish Leader is better than some of the expensive whiskies. Kudos to the Burn Stewart Distillery!
One of the Best Whiskeys out there.
