Another blend from the TBWC folk today, and curiously it’s labelled as a blended whisky rather than a blended malt – a suggestion that there’s some grain whisky in there too, or did they just decide to have a bit more variety in their blend names?!

Blended Whisky No. 2 18 Year Old Batch 2 is a 46.7% ABV dram with no clues provided as to it’s content aside from the age statement.

The nose is surprisingly subtle; limes and a little light honey initially, and after a while green apples and bubblegum. Watered, there’s worn, warm wood and a little milk chocolate, along with dried fruit – figs perhaps.

In the mouth it’s much punchier than the nose suggests; sweet dark caramel, blackcurrants and even a hint of dried orange peel. There’s a nice spicy finish, with just hint of dry, old oak.

With water it’s a little richer and fruitier; dark honey and darker plums, less citrus and a less aggressive finish but oh so drinkable.

I admit I was a little disappointed in this one initially, but the addition of water really brings it out of it’s shell – 4 stars, but don’t forget to water it.

Many thanks to Master Of Malt for providing their That Boutique-y Whisky Company Advent Calendar this year.