Dewar's Signature

This blended Scotch, bottled at 40% ABV, carries a price tag in the $200-300 range and has no age statement. The core of this blend, according to the distillery, is a 27-year-old Aberfeldy, though this likely refers to a component rather than the dominant portion. One might question the cost justification for the elaborate packaging, including a heavy bottle and a shiny wooden case, when the primary ingredient is water, with a minimal amount of the aged Aberfeldy. Despite this, the spirit delivers a distinct Aberfeldy character and presents as quite mature. While grain whiskies are present, they enhance rather than dilute the experience. If tasted blind with the erroneous suggestion that Compass Box crafted it, one might easily believe it. The only ingredient that seems inexpensive is the water, which constitutes the bulk of the spirit. If a 40% ABV strength is acceptable, this dram should satisfy. It's a crowd-pleaser, even with its presentation. Common tasting notes include orange peel, milk chocolate, honey, and sponge cake, suggesting cake as a central theme. Its layers evoke various light cakes like peach cobbler pound cake, fresh apple cake, and Rice Krispies cake. A secondary floral theme emerges, with hints of rose, but predominantly lighter blooms like freesia, lavender, and gardenia, fitting for the early summer season. Would a higher ABV improve it? Yes. There's a growing appreciation for lower ABV spirits, questioning if the pursuit of cask strength is merely a manifestation of alcoholism. For most, 40% ABV is sufficient, and many might add ice, though that's a step below the current appreciation level. A 46% ABV version would likely earn full endorsement. A 46% ABV or a substantial metal stopper would be preferable. The current plastic stopper detracts from the luxurious presentation, akin to pairing a high-end suit with inexpensive footwear. This whisky is remarkably good and broadly appealing; criticism likely stems from being both a whisky snob and an alcoholic. Alternatively, it's essentially water in a bottle with a subpar closure.

It was surprising that this performed so well compared to Blue, as advertised. However, I'm not particularly fond of Blue; Green is the best among realistically priced Walkers, so this isn't a huge accomplishment. It's a fine, dependable scotch, and a good bottle to have for esteemed visitors due to its reputation and appearance, but it probably won't become your go-to choice. Four stars is accurate for the cost; reducing the price by a third would elevate it to a 4.3-4.7 rating due to the increased value. I believe this is a marketing misstep. They should have marketed it as a Platinum competitor and priced it accordingly. You don't challenge Walker at the top of its (again, realistically priced) range; you have to build up to it.

Lovely pale gold hue. The legs descend slowly, like raindrops in slow motion. Aromas of honey, toffee, marzipan, and crème brûlée from an upscale local eatery. The flavor is full, decadent, and harmonious, leading to a warm, satisfying, and enduring finish. It pairs wonderfully with grandmother's rich chocolate desserts.

NOSE: wood shavings, caramelized sugar, raw sugar TASTE: intense mint, citrus zest With water - the flavor was diluted and dulled. NOSE: botanical, aged leather TASTE: the same mint and citrus, just less vibrant No water was required

Whisky mtl Honey Bacardi. Aberfeldy, another one of their creations Highland de aberfeldy 27 yrs Glenlivet 18 Glen Deveron 37 yr Sherry malt cherry Coffee toasted

Enjoyable flavors, velvety smooth, reminiscent of Blue Label but less refined. Still a good dram, but for the price, I'd opt for Blue Label instead.