Lost Distillery Stratheden

I've been curious about the Lost Distillery Company's recreations of closed distilleries. I found three of them at a large liquor store in KC. All three are non-chill filtered and have no added caramel coloring; they all pour a light straw color. My purchases were Benachie at 43% ABV for $50, Stratheden at 46% ABV for $60, and Auchnagie at 46% ABV for $60. All three display good legs in the glass. The Benachie tastes of pie crust, subtle dried fruit, honey, and distinct peat. It's not an overwhelming peat monster, but it is very present. The Auchnagie is similar, with less dried fruit and no smoke, and it's a little sweeter with a pleasant spiciness. I'd give it a 4.2. The Strathden is similar to the Auchnagie, though perhaps a little sweeter, the spiciness seems more peppery, with a hint of smoke and a mild astringency or saltiness to this dram. I give this one a 4.1 rating. I wish these were more readily available and at a lower price; for there are several wonderful single malts out there that are equal to or better than these vatted malts at an equal or lower price. That being said, I am glad I purchased these and will likely buy them again in the future. They are unique and are, in a sense, works of art—the blender's art. I respect and appreciate that. And I understand that all the effort to match the various malts in just the right proportions must be very labor-intensive; and that will also be reflected in the final retail price. I wish they disclosed what whiskies they used in the blends, as Compass Box does, but that's life. Cheers!

Sweet, with a mild flavor of fruits, toffee, and peppermint. Eventually, notes of oak and subtle smoke emerge at the back of the mouth. A medium to short lingering sensation in the mouth brings back flavors of overripe fruits and oak. Pleasant, smooth, but not overly complex. Purchased this as part of a six-pack of miniature ‘Lost Distillery Set’ from a whisky shop in Waverly Station, Edinburgh.

The Strathden is comparable to the Auchnagie, though perhaps a bit sweeter, the spice seems more peppery, a hint of smoke, and this dram has a mild astringency or saltiness.

Powerful, with notes of almond, chocolate, and a touch of white fruit. A whisky with character.

C&B 9/16. Not particularly noteworthy, a bit spicy, enjoyable and pleasing to consume. Difficult to acquire.

Lemon and peat notes are present, with a sugary quality.