Highland Black 8 year old is a blend I picked up myself from Aldi a couple of months back and I’ve done the bottle now so thought as I’m doing a series on Aldi whisky that I’d throw this in too.
Highland Black has been wining awards for a while now but it took me a while to pick up a bottle and I have to say that for the price and what it’s up against it’s a winner.
Little side note here, when you buy this whisky do one of two things with it, either open the bottle pour a dram and then leave the lid off for a bit to let the air in before leaving it a couple of days or better yet decant it and leave it a week, it improves no end.
On the nose we have some nice summer fruits, strawberries and gooseberry jam spring to mind and there is also some vanilla and a touch of all spice. There is also a baked bread scent.
Taste wise and I was surprised at how rich and malty this was, baked apple and summer fruit pie, honey and a little wood.
The finish is relatively short and sweet but nice enough, fruity and warm with a smoothness that you’d perhaps expect for an 8 year old blend.
Overall this is a winner, as it’s only £12.99 for a bottle I’d say it’s probably alongside the Islay Single Malt for value for money and taste experience, £13 will buy you a bottle of Bell’s or Famous Grouse if you’re lucky and this outstrips them by a country mile.
I'd have to say that Aldi's “Highland Earl” 1L for £15.49 is better than the “Highland Black 8 Year” 700ml for £12.99.
But that's just my opinion, I do know good whiskey though.
And was surprised at the lack of balance with the “Highland Black”.
Go and buy the 2 and find out what you think =)
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