Today I want to share another whisky from the summer/tropical countries series (you may read more on my Instagram account). Buchanan’s 18 Years Old Scotch Special Reserve Blended Scotch Whisky is suited for those new to the category or looking for a light and flavorful experience.
In 1884 James Buchanan formed James Buchanan & Co. It was one of the “Big Five” whisky producers in the late 1800s led by Canadian-born James Buchanan, who developed a reputation for creating palatable whisky for London’s social elites. In 1885, Buchanan secured a contract to supply his whisky to the English parliament, a pivotal move to position his brand among people of power and sophistication. The whisky was called The Buchanan Blend, which gained popularity in London’s music halls and among members of the House of Commons, who referred to it as “Black & White” due to the colors displayed in the bottle. The blend officially changed its name to “Black & White” in 1904.
In 1898 Buchanan’s brand obtained its first royal warrant from Queen Victoria, followed by royal warrants from King Edward VII in 1901 and King George V in 1910. These honors helped the brand cement its status among the most influential people in England.
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James Buchanan was also involved in the horse business. Trading horses in Central and South America, James found an opportunity to market his whiskies to an affluent clientele in countries like Venezuela, Colombia, Brasil, and Argentina. Today the brand is a South American favorite and the fastest growing blended Scotch between 2010-2015 due to its refined and light palate.
Awards for Buchanan’s 18
- Double Gold Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition in 2009. Named the “Best Blended Scotch Whisky”.
- Double Gold Medal in 2013, scoring 95 points from the Beverage Testing Institute.
- Named “Best Blended Scotch Whisky” at the Ultimate Spirits Challenge in 2012.
The blends in Buchanan’s range include:
- Black & White 8 Years-Old
- De Luxe 12 Years-Old
- Master (This is a NAS, but must be around 15 Years-Old)
- Special Reserve 18 Years-Old
- Red Seal 21 Years-Old
Tasting notes for Buchanan’s 18 Years Old Special Reserve Blended Scotch Whisky.
Nose: Gentle aromas of honey and vanilla with clove, pepper, and oak.
Palate: A mellow sherry arrival with caramel, honey, toasted oak, and a touch of smoke. Creamy and gentle palate. Delicious.
Finish: A medium to a long finish of honey, vanilla, and oak.
Buchanan’s 18-Year-Old Special Reserve Blended Scotch Whisky has a 40% ABV and has aged exclusively in ex-sherry casks.
Flavors of fruit, honey, and oak are present from nose to finish and kept in balance throughout the experience. Perhaps single malts Dalwhinnie and Cardhu are driving the honey and fruit flavors, but this is just my guess.
The whisky is delicious without adding water, but I enjoy it with ice too, especially on a sunny day at the beach, just like my dad had it with his friends. Salud!
If you’re interested in Blended Scotch, you might be interested in my review on Monkey Shoulder. Be sure to visit my Instagram account for more posts and stories from whiskies and distilleries around the world.
Score: 4.25/5 ⭐
