This is the entry level expression from the Antiquary blended Scotch whisky range, owned by the Tomatin distillery after their acquisition of J. W. Hardie in 1997. A light, malty blend, with notes of dried fruit, marmalade, vanilla cream and a touch of heather honey.
OMG!! Just reading the name of this stuff brings back memories of a by-gone era, back when I was a stewardess flying into Pittsburg. Some of the guy crew members invited me to join them at their favorite hangout -- The Listening Post. It was just the cutting edge of stereo music and the bar owner was so into this new technology, he installed speakers on each wall, then turned up the volume as the music seemed to travel from one end of the room to the other. I was not much of a drinker then, but one of the guys suggested I try a shot of Antiquary Scotch. Wow! Straight on the rocks with no mixer. That was a first for me and my inexperienced taste buds. But the stuff was sooo smooth and delicious, I raved about it to all my friends and became a huge fan. These days it is not always easy to find here in Portand, OR, but I always ask for it. Perhaps you can offer some suggestions on where it is served here. Thanks!!
Not a very flavoursome nose: predominantly acetone with some notes of marzipan and vanilla shimmering through. In taste alcohol is overpowering the other flavours, also causing a drying bitter aftertaste. Flavours that do come trough are honey and vanilla and maybe again some marzipan. Certainly no stunner, but very agreeable for the price.
Great for the price. Smooth for it's age, not overly complex. As for the pallete, I must agree with the chaps: Vanilla cream and heather honey
A very smooth whisky with no harsh notes making it a very palatable and easy after supper drink. I must confess I did not notice the peaty flavour and appreciated the sweetness of the blend.
Interesting slightly premium whisky in the non-aged blend category, the charming diamond-sculpture Antiquary bottle yielding a worthy sipper, very drinkable straight. Exceptionally lovely nose; & satisfying to the palate, not heavy but with ample body, & an elegant, uncomplicated balance of flavours including a vague hint of peat. There is a somewhat long dry-bitter aftertaste on the minus side. A nice contender for the many of us who prefer less complex whiskies without jarring spice-notes etc.
