Buchanan's 18 Year Special Reserve

Rating: 17/23 - Aroma - Heather notes with cinnamon and other baking spices. A rich, malt-like sweetness in the background rounds out the profile. - Taste - Heather leads into a malty sweetness with worty undertones. It's a pleasing mix of subtlety and richness, even with the lower alcohol content. The cinnamon spice effectively complements the low ABV, introducing a bourbon barrel vanilla flavor. An oiliness suggests the possible use of oloroso casks, leaving a nice residue on the glass rim as it dries. The lower alcohol content imparts a slight bitterness, though it's not unpleasant. - Finish - Clean, with lingering heather, a slightly oily feel, and hints of bourbon barrel. Some of the worty grain character is also present. - Overall - This is quite good! While not an all-time favorite, it's rich and flavorful with complexity and body, despite being only 40% ABV. I'm leaning towards a 17 or 18.

A superb blended Scotch, very well-rounded and expertly crafted. The nose offers a pleasant aroma rich with vanilla, cream, and floral/herbal notes. The palate begins with a mild sweetness, akin to caramel, butterscotch, and perhaps dark chocolate. The sweetness then gives way to a gentle, balanced spiciness with a hint of bitterness. The finish is medium and satisfying. In a word, this whisky is balanced. A delightful dram I just experienced. Oh, and there's a touch of orange too.

Nose: The aroma is rich with dark chocolate, tobacco, apples, smoke, and vanilla. Palate: More smoke and dark chocolate on the palate, alongside apples, pears, and brown sugar. The finish is oily with tobacco and pepper notes. This is a pleasing blended malt, reminiscent of a fine maduro cigar. While not the most intricate or flavorful Scotch available, it stands out as one of the best values, especially with an 18-year age statement.

As a blended Scotch, it truly offers a mellow conclusion that anyone can appreciate. A present from my parents that everybody found enjoyable; I was amazed by how easy it was for someone new to scotch, while still giving a complex sensation for those accustomed to its subtleties. Likely the only perfect score I'll give because it holds a cherished place in my memory.

I don't often have blends, but I found this one at a good price. The aroma is a little fruity, but mellow. On the palate, there's a little peat with more fruity flavor and chocolate. The finish is light and a little short, but I don't mind that. I think this is a good value for an 18-year blend, around $75.

I wouldn't pay over $100 for a bottle, but I'm happy I had the chance to try it. It's quite flavorful. A little apple and vanilla, with a hint of tobacco. As it warms and airs out, it also develops a touch of smokiness on the tongue. The maltiness is also a pretty significant element.