Copper Dog Blended Malt

Nose: Very crisp dry apple cider, so bright it's almost like cider vinegar. Some light cereal notes and a little oak in the background. A drop of water significantly softens the nose and deepens the overall character. Palate: A very bright, almost effervescent arrival with the same apple cider character as the nose, but here on the palate it is sweet and you can just barely detect some cereal notes. The texture is watery and there is no development at all; the initial flavors transition directly into the finish. However, a drop of water broadens the palate and gives it a little more texture. Finish: Like lightning, there's a quick spicy flash and then it fades out to nothingness with only a watery cereal aftertaste. A most peculiar blend - exceptionally easy and mild, almost dangerously easy to drink, but also thin and pale. The overwhelming character is reminiscent of a watered-down version of that type of hard apple cider that has a strong, vinegar-like aroma which is not unpleasant, but a far cry from soft fresh apple juice. This is also very possibly the fastest profile I've ever tasted. Seriously, 30 seconds after you swallow there is hardly a trace it was ever on your palate. However, on the plus side, there are no off-notes at all, no metallic or sulfur taint, and no bitterness. Water greatly improves this blend and I'd guess the good folks at the Craigellachie Hotel commissioned this specifically to have a profile that works particularly well as a soft, easy drinking session whisky with ice and soda water. There's not much substance to it and I'd never buy it again, but on the other hand, it's in no way offensive. The quality is just as good, but the profile is bland. "Average": 75/100 (2.5 stars)

Date unknown - Location unknown - Nocturnal Frenzy I'm reaching the end of 48 hours of Nocturnal Frenzy... My body is enduring the intensity of my desires. (Let me clarify here that I only consume organic! Never flour! Only fermented grapes and distilled barley!) Appearance: Light amber Nose: Honeyed, slightly alcoholic First taste: Astringent Second taste: Alcoholic Third taste: Industrial, bitter, coppery, metallic. The sensation of drinking a whisky made in a metalworking factory... Not much body, a whisky in limbo... I'm unsure what to think. I'm too dry and weakened to truly appreciate this whisky. But the fact that it doesn't revive me like a divine beverage leads me to believe it's not worth investigating; it's not a nectar worthy of its name... Bring me some water...

A distinct, grain-forward aroma featuring honeyed cereals and a hint of nuttiness, specifically Brazil nuts. After some air, notes of vanilla, Golden Delicious apple, and a whisper of lemon icing emerge. The palate is sweeter than the nose. I detect golden syrup, more vanilla, lemon cake with sugar glaze, and a slight warmth from white pepper and perhaps a touch of ginger powder. The body is pleasing for the low ABV, velvety yet light. The legs are swift and inconsistent but visually appealing. Curiously, after the initial wave subsides, a tight, precise ring of teardrops forms just above the liquid's surface. Little finish to speak of. A touch of bitter walnut mingles with the receding sweetness and a hint of citrus tang. It evokes the impression of a fine Irish pot still whiskey. Nose: 8 Taste: 9 Body: 7 Finish: 6

This is another budget blended malt (no grain). It was part of a low-cost purchasing spree and cost me $27. It's nothing outstanding but offers good value for a scotch. It has light Speyside fruits and malt with green wood and a flash of peat. There's also a bit of char or perceived smoke. The finish is thin and fades rapidly; it's not a drink for deep contemplation. However, it tastes good, has no off-notes, and well, darn it, it's scotch, so I like it. Its quality is similar to the Shackleton I just reviewed, but it's not as good as Monkey Shoulder or Naked Grouse. I don't think I'd buy it again, but I'd happily drink it at an event or party.........78/100

I decided it was time to explore the affordable range, so I acquired this bottle of Copper Dog. The aroma is fresh and grassy, presenting apple puree, tart grapes, and some distant spices. Beyond that, there isn't much else. The flavor is crisp, watery, and apple-forward, evolving into bitter oranges, cinnamon, and mild tannins. Whispers of biscuits, walnuts, and menthol add some body. The finish is quick and uninspiring, fading with toffee, herbs, and a trace of espresso. I don't dislike drinking this malt, but it's not particularly captivating either. RATING: 2.7/5.0 stars ≙ 76 pts → SUBPAR [+]

The aroma is very much as advertised: copper coins, metallic. In fact, the metallic characteristic is quite apparent throughout the entire experience. Inhaling deeply revealed distinct gasoline/fusel notes. Secondary notes include caramel, brown sugar, fennel, and black pepper. Butterscotch and creamer are also present. Smoldering smoke remnants on the finish; vanilla pipe tobacco. While it's not my preferred budget blend, it's certainly not unpleasant. One must be able to tolerate the metallic element, but persistence is rewarded with pipe tobacco and smoother, more balanced flavors.