The Antiquary is a line of blended whiskies produced by the Tomatin distillery. Its original lie some 150 years ago when John & William Hardie set to ‘create the perfect Blended Scotch’. The name ‘Antiquary’ is taken from the famous Gothic novel written by Sir Walter Scott, redolent with family secrets, stories of hidden treasure and hopeless love. Recently the entire range was redesigned, this is indeed a good reason for me to try this blend, which is not really available locally, and has eluded my until now..
The PR blabber goes:
Matured in specially selected oak casks for over twenty one years, The Antiquary 21 Year Old is a smooth blend of rare distinction, containing only the best Scottish malt and grain whiskies.
The Antiquary 21 Year Old , 43% abv , £61.76
Nose : Lovely malty backbone with ripe oranges and peel on top. Sweet and spicy with white pepper and treacle. A touch of old oak and agreed grain.
Palate: Toasted oak, juicy barley sugars. Vanilla and malty sweetness getting dry and oaky towards the end with Clove and pepper.
Finish :Long dry and oaky showing nice age and wood spices.
A rather nice blend this one, well rounded, with enough spice and sweetness, showing good age, and enough wood goodness. Well balanced. Don’t expect wonders, but this would make a nice sipping whisky and a nice present for whisky drinkers / blend lovers.