Stalk & Barrel Blue Blend

Nose: Gentle vanilla, mocha, a whisper of barley sugar, woody rye spice, faint heather smoke, fresh green herbs (mint, grass, basil, parsley), bitterness from barrel tannins, assorted fruits (grape blend, cinnamon, ripe pineapple, green apples, plum, sweet candied apricot and peach), dried fruits (prunes, sultanas, apricots, dates), spiced apple cider, mild citrus (lemon and lime). Palate: Zesty rye spice, barley sugar, spicy apple cider, barrel tannins, a hint of bitterness from aged green peppers, trace of candied lemon peel, green apple, pineapple, hint of pomegranate. Finish: Spicy fruit with a cinnamon tang, a slight bitterness from barrel tannins, green apples, a hint of French toast, and a trace of lemon citrus.

Stalk&Barrel Blue, 40% alcohol by volume. Bottled in Canada. No age statement, minimum 3 years old. This might be the palest colored whisky I have ever seen, or at least it might have no color added. Aroma: maple, vanilla, honey, slight oak. Taste: moderate to high vanilla. Sweetness like candy, a little toasty. I didn't detect much oak or balance; the sweetness is predominant. Cost: 31 to 32 dollars plus tax for a 750ml bottle. Too expensive in my view. Rating: C

The nose suggests overly sweet butterscotch and artificial vanilla. The palate adds notes of pears, peaches, and apricots. This spirit could easily be mistaken for a flavored liqueur. I found it on discount and decided to try it. I would not purchase it again. 70/100

Nose: Vanilla, acetone, a touch of honey. Palate: Vanilla, black/white pepper, acetone. Rich and creamy mouthfeel with a sharp alcohol burn. Finish: Short finish with lingering vanilla and acetone.

I anticipated this would be thin based on the aroma, but was surprised by a full nutty vanilla flavor that led to a spicy, slightly tart finish that was quite delicious overall.

Completely unexceptional, it's not quite a typical Canadian, but it doesn't taste like Scotch either. I don't know, I can't connect with this whiskey.