House of Hazelwood

 

For many years I've considered myself to be a self-confessed whisky connoisseur drinking what I deemed to be the best spirits (single malt, single cask, cask strength and non-chill filtered whiskies) with anything else inferior in every aspect.

That was then, fast forward and my whisky journey has evolved as have I through tastings and chatting with more knowledgeable individuals which led me into the wonderful world off all distilled spirits, appreciating the wonderful product of the dedicated master distiller/blender.

It is not accurate to say that blended whiskies are "inferior" to single malt whiskies.  Both types have their own unique characteristics and qualities.  Single malt whiskies are made from 100% malted barley and are distilled at a single distillery, which gives them a distinct flavor and aroma that is specific to that distillery.

Blended whiskies, on the other hand, are made by blending one or more single malt whiskies with one or more single grain whiskies.  This blending process allows for more consistency in flavor and to a smoother taste.  It is worth nothing that’ll  blending different types of whiskies together allows the distiller to create a more consistent product, since the flavors of the different barrels of whisky can vary greatly.  Blending also allows the distiller to create a more complex flavor profile by combining different types of whiskies.

Some people prefer blended whiskies for their smoothness and versatility in mixed drinks and cocktails, while others prefer single malt or single grain whiskies for their unique flavor profiles.  Both types of whiskies are enjoyed by whisky enthusiasts around the world.  In short, it's a matter of personal preference whether you prefer blended whiskies or not.

This brings me nicely to the wonderful, House of Hazelwood (https://us.houseofhazelwood.com) Legacy and Charles Gordon collection.

Named after the family's Dufftown home (Hazelwood House), these are some wonderful examples of the master blenders craftsmanship, well-balanced though-provoking drams.

• 37-year-old blended grain scotch whisky; A breath of fresh air - Legacy Collection 46% abv.

            Nose: A scrumptious fresh zingy well balanced crisp nose, citrus rinds, grapefruit.

            Palate: More of those fresh citrus fruits, with a little sweetness.

            Finish: Medium, fresh, fruity with an underlying dryness.  Easy and very enjoyable.

• 42-year-old blended malt scotch whisky; A trail of smoke - Legacy Collection 45% abv.

            Nose: Subtle burning wood notes followed by a honeycomb - vanilla sweetness.

            Palate: Wood smoke, burnt herbs, fruitier on the palate then the nose, with a                             sweetness underneath.

            Finish: Medium, smoky, sweet, fruity.

• 44-year-old scotch whisky; The unknown - Charles Gordon collection 43% abv.

            Nose: Armagnac-soaked prunes, jam covered oatcakes.

            Palate: Dense and rich with a wonderful fruity sweetness.

            Finish: Long, scrumptious and rich.

• 44-year-old blended malt scotch whisky; The old confectioner's - Charles Gordon collection 45% abv

            Nose: Liquorice followed by a hazelnut sweetness.

            Palate: ark chocolate, caramelized nuts with more of those liquorice notes.

            Finish: Medium/Long.

Thank you for giving me the opportunity of trying these amazing drams, which I believe will be available in the States.  If given the chance I would highly recommend these drams for a truly memorable experience. 

Slàinte mhath.