Smokin' - The Gentleman's Dram

Profile: The Smokin' - The Gentleman's Dram at a glance

• Smokin' - The Gentleman's Dram: Scotland's answer to stylish smoking
• From the independent bottler Duncan Taylor - Founded in 1938 in Glasgow as a whisky broker
• Silver Outstanding winner at the International Wine & Spirit Competition 2014 & 2016

Portrait: What makes Smokin' - The Gentleman's Dram special

Smokin' - The Gentleman's Dram is not just any blended Scotch whisky. He's the type who shows up at teatime wearing a hat, pocket watch, and a slightly ironic grin - and secretly takes a swig from his hip flask. This charming blended Scotch is produced in Scotland, the country that exports not only bagpipes, kilts, and very unruly weather, but above all: whisky tradition with a real dose of character.

The Smokin' brand is a homage to the classic British gentleman - the human being who, with his pipe, monocle, and stoic composure, never loses sight of the bigger picture, even when the teahouses are ablaze. And as befits a true Scotsman, Smokin' brings not only style but also history. As a blended Scotch, it combines various single malts and grain whiskies from different distilleries across the country - a traditional process that has been practiced since the 19th century, when dazzling Scotsmen began blending their whiskies as elegantly as their jackets.

The name says it all: Smokin' alludes to the smoky soul of whisky, but with a wink. Because although it doesn't take itself too seriously, behind the bottle lies a great deal of craftsmanship, know-how, and a little dash of British eccentricity.

In short: A whisky for those who like to step out of line in style - but don't let anyone see what's in the glass.

Tasting Notes: This is how the Smokin' - The Gentleman's Dram tastes like

• Nose: a powerful entry with intense smoky aromas - dominant peat smoke meets the scent of burning wood and a hint of BBQ marinade - this is joined by fine hints of burnt sugar, accompanied by a subtle medicinal undertone reminiscent of classic Islay whiskies
• Palate: on the palate, the peat smoke takes it up a notch - deep, earthy and clearly present - spicy notes of black pepper develop in the background, followed by a creamy hint of salted butter, which gives the strong character a smooth component
• Finish: long-lasting and just as smoky as the first impression - the peat smoke remains dominant, but develops a sweeter, almost syrupy note, reminiscent of smoky BBQ sauce - the black pepper returns and provides a spicy finish with a lingering aftertaste