It’s been on the market for a few years now, but Waterproof Blended Malt Scotch Whisky has escaped my radar detection system so far. This sherry-forward whisky is produced by MacDuff International, and recently I’ve heard positive praise from several people. Now I’m curious.
According to the brand’s website, Waterproof Blended Malt is made from “malt whisky from a handful of top distilleries.” I think it is safe to say a good portion of Waterproof Blended Malt is distilled at Inchdairnie Distillery. Early on, founder Ian Palmer established a relationship with MacDuff International, supplying malt whisky for the Glasgow-based blender.
Otherwise, there’s not much to say about this blended malt, unless you’re interested in where the name comes from. But we’re probably best off letting them explain it.
Waterproof Blended Malt Scotch Whisky (45.8%, OB, 2023)
Nose: Sherry-forward with notes of sandalwood and cigar boxes, but also slivers of caramelised red apples, hazelnuts, decaying leaves and a good amount of oak. The cask is dominant. Little touches of varnish and dates as well.
Taste: Gentle fruits with notes of powdered coffee and a hint of milk chocolate, but also some soft oak spices, mainly cloves and just a tinge of black pepper. Also some apple peel, cherries and rum-soaked raisins. Finally just a sliver of cordite.
Finish: Medium length. Somewhat dry but otherwise more of the above, as well as a touch of salted licorice.