Famous Grouse 21 Year

This is a review of the Famous Grouse 18 year old. This is a discontinued bottling that merits a brief history. A decade ago, I couldn't afford a Macallan 18. Even the 12-year-olds were considered exceptional then, yet they were incorporated into blends. Little did they realize... Now that most Macallans are overpriced and overhyped, it's understandable why aged Famous Grouses, which include a substantial amount of Macallan and Highland Park, have been discontinued. I can now purchase current Mac 18s without regret, but the older 18 bottlings are over $1000, which is unreasonable for a whisky enthusiast. The closest I've come to a bottle of the old 18 is this Famous Grouse 18, for $60. This is not Macallan 18. However, it contains 18-year-old Macallan from before the ownership change to Edrington. It also clearly contains Highland Park. This is likely from less desirable casks. Nevertheless, the sherry influence is dominant. It smells like sweetened grape juice. You don't encounter that profile in today's whiskies. On the palate, rich notes of raisins and plums are present. Grape skins. Chocolate. Wood spices. And a distinct salinity from the Highland Park influence. The finish is rather short, and the overall spirit suffers from dilution. Still, if you find this for under $100, it's a purchase I'd recommend. SCORE: 86 / 100.