Ellington Canadian Whiskey

The aroma is barely noticeable, with a slight hint of alcohol. It's so light on the nose, I'd mistake it for vodka. The taste is delicate, featuring a chamomile note that's decent but not at all what I expect from a North American whiskey. The alcohol comes through, and the flavor is surprisingly faint. A larger sip reveals much more alcohol. The alcohol, along with some chamomile and hay, are really the only tastes. It's not bad, but it's like the Coors of whiskey – very little substance, extremely light flavor. The finish is brief, with a bit more bitterness than desired, but it’s tolerable. This drinks like a blend of gin and lightly aged vodka. It’s not terrible, but whiskey drinkers should pass. A subtly growing sickly sweet caramel note is present. The chamomile somewhat counteracts it, but the sweetness is definitely there. Despite its pale color, it somehow feels less rich than it looks. Could it be mostly wheat? Right after trying the Ellington Reserve, the sweetness here becomes more noticeable, similar to poorly aged rum. It’s not as enjoyable as it was initially. It’s strange: now it reminds me more of mushrooms than the Ellington Reserve does. This is awful. It’s inferior to Ellington Reserve and Black Velvet.

I previously had a bottle of Ellington that I thoroughly enjoyed. I intended to repurchase it, but the store was out. I traveled to a different store, and they had Ellington, but not the specific one I liked before, as it was sold out. So, I purchased this one, though I was quite skeptical due to its very low price and a store sign suggesting it was best mixed with cola or ginger ale, with no mention of sipping it neat. In any case, it's not great. Not terrible, mind you. It possesses some interesting characteristics like eucalyptus, anise, and herbal notes... but they are overwhelmed by the potent alcohol. It is not smooth. It's acceptable for the extremely low price, but this is some cheap stuff. Still, I'll enjoy it until the bottle is finished and I can get an upgrade. 70/100

The aroma was unpleasant, featuring neutral grain spirits and solvent notes, with lemon and cinnamon attempting to salvage the experience. The palate was also a struggle, with cherry cough syrup contending against maple syrup and waxy candy. The finish was harsh, brief, and left a bitter aftertaste. I did not finish the 50ml bottle. I strongly advise everyone to avoid this.

Nose of ethanol and wood. Mostly ethanol. Flavors are similar. But there’s a subtle sweet note upon first taste. Perhaps some melon. But it’s brief and the alcohol harshness quickly overwhelms it.

Pencil-like aroma with sweetness. Sweet oak flavor. Features a light metallic sweet oak finish that persists.

Smells like a Sharpie. The aroma is pure alcohol. Incredibly dry and strong.