Scottish Leader (175cl, 40%)

Scottish Leader is a blended Scotch whisky at 40% ABV, in a 1.75 litre bottle. The brand dates from 1976. The blend takes its malt backbone from Tobermory Distillery and combines 25 malt whiskies aged between three and eight years with two grain whiskies, one from maize and one from wheat, in roughly a quarter malt to three quarters grain. Speyside malts feature strongly, with a smaller Islay element adding a light peat character. The nose offers light peat smoke, honey and gentle nuttiness. The palate is bittersweet and smooth, with honey, caramel, warm oak and orange zest. The finish is medium-long and dry, with peat and vanilla.