Blair Athol 2007 11 Year 86 Proof Collection (Signatory)

The aroma is moderately rich, not suggesting complexity, yet offering malt, freshness, a whisper of herbal citrus, a subtle apricot hint, and a touch of young grass. The taste is agreeably sweet and malty with caramel notes. It possesses a light body, similar to Glen Elgin 21 (1995), but lacks its smoothness and balance. While smooth, it carries a youthful citrus character and a hint of Clynelish waxiness. The palate is very light but pleasant. It's good enough to rival Glenmorangie The Original, but doesn't reach excellence. Some grassy notes introduce a faint cardboard impression without being unpleasant. There's a noticeable alcohol presence. I prefer Loch Lomond 12 slightly. A larger sip reveals more richness, increased viscosity, and smoke, resembling a mix of Glenmorangie The Original and Clynelish 14. It's satisfactory, but barely more than drinkable.

Blair Athol 2008 11 Years Old TSC 55.5% - Second tasting - Notes of honey, caramel, and sugar, with a moderate to strong peppery touch, plus coconut and vanilla. Scored 2.25 Smooth, coconut, nutty, oily, similar to coconut oil, with a touch of bitterness. The flavors are present but none stand out, as if they're all sharing the spotlight equally. Scored 2.25 Finish: a tropical coconut beach vibe with a light warmth at the back of the throat. Scored 2.25 Overall Score: 2.25 Blair Athol 2008 11 Years Old 55.5% Score: 1.75 Notes of honey, pepper, vomit, robust, and sweet. Scored 1.5 Texture, creaminess, metallic, oily. Scored 2 Light and unremarkable. Scored 2 - Finished in sherry and bourbon casks.

I previously sampled the Blair Athol 7 year Signatory and found it to be outstanding, comparable to a premium Glenmorangie in flavor, with an unpeated, lightly charred, clean finish. This is the type of Scotch I can genuinely enjoy without feeling the need to adopt a specific persona. Edit: My error, this is indeed the 11 year 2007 as stated.

Nose - lemon zest, honey, floral notes, and hints of tropical fruit Taste - vanilla, honey, lemon, and dry spices Finish - the sweetness recedes to the background but remains, the spicier notes come into prominence, moderate warmth

The body is flat, but the finish is interesting with chocolate and vanilla notes. It's very smooth and easy to drink. Intriguing, but not outstanding.

Purchased in Edinburgh.