Bottle Brief

Rating: 5/10 – BottleBrief Rating System

Introduction

J.P. Wiser’s Old Fashioned Whisky Cocktail is a ready-to-serve version of the classic cocktail, offering a convenient option for those seeking the flavors of an Old Fashioned without the need for mixing. Crafted in Ontario, this pre-mixed drink combines quality Canadian whisky with orange essence and natural flavors, aiming to deliver the traditional notes of the iconic cocktail. While it provides a quick and easy solution for cocktail enthusiasts, it may not fully satisfy purists seeking the depth and complexity of a handcrafted Old Fashioned.

The Old Fashioned cocktail itself dates back to the early 19th century, with its name emerging in the 1880s to distinguish it from newer, more complex cocktails. Traditionally, an Old Fashioned is made by muddling sugar with bitters, adding whiskey, and garnishing with an orange slice or zest and a cocktail cherry. J.P. Wiser’s Old Fashioned Whisky Cocktail seeks to capture these elements in a bottled form, making it accessible for those who prefer convenience without compromising too much on taste.

Eye

The appearance of J.P. Wiser’s Old Fashioned Whisky Cocktail is inviting, with a rich amber hue that suggests depth and warmth. The liquid is clear, allowing light to pass through effortlessly, and it exhibits a slight viscosity when swirled in the glass. This viscosity is accompanied by slow-moving legs that cling to the sides of the glass, indicating a moderate alcohol content and a well-balanced blend of ingredients. The visual presentation sets the stage for an enjoyable drinking experience, though it may not be as striking as a freshly prepared cocktail.

Nose

Upon bringing the glass to the nose, the first impression is one of sweetness, with prominent notes of orange zest and caramel. These are complemented by subtle hints of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove, evoking the traditional spices associated with an Old Fashioned. The aroma is rounded out by a faint presence of honey and a touch of rye spice, adding complexity to the bouquet. While the nose is aromatic and inviting, it lacks the depth and intensity that one might expect from a handcrafted version of the cocktail, where the interplay of fresh ingredients can produce a more pronounced and layered scent profile.

Palate

The palate of J.P. Wiser’s Old Fashioned Whisky Cocktail is smooth and approachable, with a sweetness that is immediately noticeable. The orange flavor is front and center, providing a bright and citrusy foundation. This is followed by layers of honeycomb, cinnamon, and cloves, which add warmth and spice to the profile. There is also a subtle undertone of rye bread and black licorice, contributing to the complexity of the flavor. The body is light, and the texture is silky, making it easy to sip. However, the sweetness can be a bit overwhelming for some, and the whisky flavor, while present, is somewhat subdued, lacking the boldness and depth that a traditional Old Fashioned offers.

Finish

The finish is warm and slightly sweet, with lingering notes of baking spices that fade gradually. The duration is relatively short, leaving behind a clean aftertaste without any harshness or bitterness. While the finish is pleasant, it doesn’t have the lasting impact or complexity that one might experience with a well-crafted Old Fashioned, where the interplay of flavors can leave a memorable impression long after the last sip.

Conclusion

J.P. Wiser’s Old Fashioned Whisky Cocktail offers a convenient alternative to the traditional cocktail, delivering recognizable flavors of orange, honey, and spices. However, its sweetness and lack of depth may not appeal to those who appreciate the complexity of a handcrafted Old Fashioned. While it serves well as a quick and easy option, it falls short of the nuanced experience that comes from a properly mixed cocktail. The J.P. Wiser’s Old Fashioned Whisky Cocktail is a decent option for those seeking convenience, but it lacks the depth and complexity of a traditional Old Fashioned. Its sweetness and light body may not satisfy purists, but it serves well as a quick and easy alternative.

Summary

Category: Ready-to-drink whisky cocktail
ABV: 35%
Eye: Amber, clear, viscous, slightly oily legs
Nose: Orange zest, cinnamon, nutmeg, clove, honey, caramel, subtle rye spice
Taste: Sweet, orange, honeycomb, cinnamon, cloves, rye bread, black licorice, smooth, light body
Finish: Lingering baking spices, warm, slightly sweet, short duration

History and Fun Facts

J.P. Wiser’s is one of Canada’s oldest whisky brands, established in 1857. The Old Fashioned cocktail itself dates back to the early 19th century, with its name emerging in the 1880s to distinguish it from newer, more complex cocktails. Traditionally, an Old Fashioned is made by muddling sugar with bitters, adding whiskey, and garnishing with an orange slice or zest and a cocktail cherry. In 2018, J.P. Wiser’s introduced its Old Fashioned Whisky Cocktail, aiming to provide a ready-made version of this classic drink. The product combines Canadian whisky with orange essence and natural flavors, offering a convenient option for consumers seeking the taste of an Old Fashioned without the need for mixing.

Rating: 6/10 – Rating System

Introduction
Glenfiddich 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky holds a special place in the hearts of many whisky enthusiasts. As one of the most widely recognized and readily available single malts, it serves as an entry point for newcomers to the world of Scotch whisky. Its reputation precedes it, promising a smooth and approachable experience backed by the esteemed heritage of the Glenfiddich distillery. However, with such acclaim also comes high expectations. In this review, we’ll explore whether Glenfiddich 12 lives up to its reputation, examining its characteristics and nuances to provide an honest assessment.

Eye
The visual aspect of a whisky can often set the stage for the tasting experience to come. Glenfiddich 12 Year Old presents itself in the glass with a pale gold hue that catches the light in an inviting manner. This color, reminiscent of golden honey, hints at the whisky’s gentle maturation in oak casks. It’s clear and bright, promising clarity and purity in its presentation. While it may not boast the deep amber tones of older expressions, its appearance is nonetheless pleasing to the eye and suggests a whisky that is approachable and accessible.

Nose
Upon bringing the glass to the nose, one is greeted with a delicate bouquet of aromas that entice and intrigue. The initial impression is one of floral sweetness, reminiscent of a summer garden in bloom. Notes of pear and apple dance on the senses, accompanied by a subtle hint of citrus zest. There’s a touch of vanilla in the background, adding a creamy richness to the aroma profile. As the whisky opens up, a gentle oakiness emerges, hinting at its years of maturation in oak casks. Overall, the nose is inviting and pleasant, setting the stage for what promises to be a flavorful tasting experience.

Palate
With each sip, Glenfiddich 12 Year Old reveals its signature smoothness and balance on the palate. The initial impression is one of ripe orchard fruits, with juicy apple and sweet pear taking center stage. These fruity notes are complemented by a gentle oakiness, which adds depth and complexity to the flavor profile. There’s a subtle sweetness that lingers on the tongue, balanced by a touch of spice that adds a welcome kick to the proceedings. While not overly complex, the palate is nonetheless enjoyable and easy-drinking, making it suitable for both newcomers and seasoned whisky enthusiasts alike.

Finish
As the whisky is savored and enjoyed, it gradually fades away on the finish, leaving behind a lingering reminder of its presence. The finish is medium in length, with the fruity sweetness persisting alongside a subtle hint of oak. There’s a satisfying warmth that spreads slowly down the throat, imparting a sense of comfort and contentment. While not particularly memorable, the finish is nonetheless clean and satisfying, rounding off the tasting experience in a pleasant manner.

Conclusion
In conclusion, Glenfiddich 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky is a classic expression from the esteemed Speyside distillery. It offers a smooth and approachable drinking experience that is sure to appeal to a wide range of palates. While it may not boast the complexity or depth of some of its higher-end counterparts, it nonetheless holds its own as a solid entry-level offering. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a classic cocktail, Glenfiddich 12 delivers a consistent and enjoyable whisky experience that is worthy of its reputation.

Summary
Category: Single Malt Scotch Whisky
ABV: 40%
Eye: Pale gold
Nose: Floral, pear, apple, citrus, vanilla, oak
Taste: Orchard fruits, oak, sweetness, spice
Finish: Medium, fruity, oak

History and Fun Facts
Glenfiddich, nestled in the picturesque surroundings of Dufftown, Speyside, has a rich history dating back to its founding in 1887 by William Grant. The name Glenfiddich translates to “Valley of the Deer” in Gaelic, a nod to the natural beauty of the distillery’s surroundings. Since its inception, Glenfiddich has remained family-owned, a rarity in an industry dominated by large conglomerates. Over the years, it has earned a reputation for innovation and quality, becoming one of the best-selling single malt Scotch whiskies worldwide. The 12 Year Old expression is just one of many in Glenfiddich’s extensive lineup, which includes whiskies aged up to 50 years old. Despite its widespread popularity, Glenfiddich remains committed to traditional craftsmanship and quality, ensuring that each bottle maintains the high standards for which the distillery is known.