Sainsbury’s Blended Scotch Whisky

Still on Day 2 in the Ook, after I had my run in with the Jura 10 year Origin, I was offered up something to cleanse my tastebuds. A store brand whisky called Sainsbury’s Blended Scotch Whisky.

So this is my first ever store brand whisky. They just don’t have them in Canada, what with the wonderful alcohol laws and whatnot. And maybe that’s not a bad thing, right? Or maybe this will hurt. A lot.

However my Marketing background (don’t stone me) kicks in, and tells me that just because something is store brand doesn’t mean it is bad. Fun Fact (If you find this fun): Most store brands are just a manufacturer making their similar product and slapping on a product label. This allows that manufacturer to compete for more shelf space, as they are now doing the Retailer a favour. The retailer receives more profits from the store brands.

So maybe this is made by someone like Chivas? Or maybe it’s made by Bells (spoilers, it’s probably Bell’s).

Price: N/A in Ontario

Region: Blend

Abv: 40%

Colour: Dark copper (e150 is the main ingredient)

Nose: Oak, lemon, alcohol, light anise

So… traditional? I mean, nothing mind blowing, but it’s just… the usual flavours. Nothing less, nothing more.

Taste: Bubblegum, wood, maple

It’s sweet, fake, and woody. Not much flavour. Would be good to mix probably, as it’s sweet.

Finish: Oak, lemon, dust, alcohol, yeasty bread

Like chewing on an old book. With your dad. While watching paint dry.

Conclusion: I’m being brief as there’s nothing really to say about this one. It’s wood and sweetness, it’s made for mixing, and it’s not really anything much more. It’s the Canadian’s of Scotch: Inoffensive, quiet, and just goes with the flow. It’s watered down Bell’s,pure and simple.

That being said, it tastes better than the Jura I just had, so way to go Sainsbury’s!

61/100

Scotch review #73, Blend review #4, Whisky Network review #96