The Naked Grouse – 40%

What can I say… I rather like the packaging, even if it’s obviously intended to lure single malt fans towards the brand (if it works then good on them I say). The tagline for the whisky is “for the sophisticated whisky drinker that savours a dram”. The rest of the PR reads as follows with my notes and thoughts after…

The Naked Grouse is a unique and expertly crafted, small batch blended Scotch whisky containing hand-blended world-renowned malts that combine to produce a sweet, rich and smooth taste. The exceptional blend was inspired by William Gloag of The Famous Grouse family and his pioneering discovery of sherry cask maturation. This innovative process, along with an enduring legacy of expertise, creates a stunning example of the blender’s art and results in a sophisticated dram with notes of cherry compote, spicy cinnamon and dark chocolate.

Here’s my notes and thoughts…

Colour: Very orange, caramelly; it’s what many a mainstream consumer expects.
Nose: If you’re used to standard Famous Grouse then this is definitely a departure, a notch up; it’s got quite a quality note to it. There’s interesting young oak notes, with nuts, sherry goodies and gentle nutmeg and cinnamon spices.
Palate: The palate is a tiny bit thin maybe, but it’s easy drinking with a similarly quality feel to it that you found on the nose. Sweet and balanced with autumn fruit sweetness.
Finish: Reasonably long with the sherry sweetness holding out, a hint of tannin and spice.
Thoughts: I wasn’t sure what I was going to expect, I actually don’t mind a drop of the old Grouse if there’s nothing else around… however this was quite a step up and better than I had preconceptions of. If you’re looking for a cheap session dram then give it a whirl.
Available: For around £25 in supermarkets and online.

Thanks to Famous Grouse for the large sample.