Editor’s Note: This whisky was provided to us as a review sample by the party behind it. This in no way, per our editorial policies, influenced the final outcome of this review. It should also be noted that by clicking the buy link in this review our site receives a small referral payment which helps to support, but not influence, our editorial and other costs.
In June of this year, Ian Macleod Distillers announced its U.S. launch of their blended scotch whiskies aging in range from 8-year-old up to their 30-year-old. This review will focus on the Isle of Skye 30-Year-Old Blended Scotch Whisky.
Ian Macleod Distillers has four generations of whisky making experience under their belt. Ian Macleod & Company Ltd. was founded in 1933. The family of Leonard Russell Sr., who in 1936 established his own whisky broking company, acquired Ian Macleod & Co. Ltd in 1963. The son of Russell Sr., Peter Russell took over as Managing Director and was succeeded by his son, also named Leonard. In addition to being one of Scotland’s leading independent, family-owned distilleries, Ian Macleod Distillers is also the world’s 10th largest Scotch Whisky company with spirits sales of over 15 million bottles a year.
Ian Macleod created Isle of Skye blended scotch whisky on what is said to be the most popular of Scotland’s islands in 1933. Located in the northernmost island in the inner Hebrides of Scotland, Skye is the largest island in the Highland council area.
Each bottle of Isle of Skye Blended Scotch Whisky displays the black ‘Cuillin Ridge’ hills, the famous mountain range on the Isle of Skye. They are part of the Macleod Estate which partners with other agencies for the conservation of the Cuillin’s fragile ecosystem much of which is composed of basalt and gabbro.
Isle of Skye 30-Year-Old Blended Scotch Whisky is a blend of peated island malts that have been matched with Speyside and Highland malts as well as grain whiskies. The brand’s official tasting notes suggest aromas of vanilla, light oak, bakewell tart, coconut, and a floral top notes on the nose with sweet butter pastry, fresh malt, raisins, and hints of smoke on the palate.
Iain Weir, Brand Director for Isle of Skye Blended Scotch Whisky said in a prepared statement, “We are delighted to share the updated Isle of Skye range with the U.S. The unique, rich flavors of the whisky are a testament to the careful blending and premium malts and grain that we use to create it. Our stunning new packaging really tells the story of the brand and showcases its heritage on the ancient Isle of Skye.”
Isle of Skye 30-Year-Old won Gold in the 2023 International Wine & Spirit Competition as well as in the 2023 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
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The full range of Isle of Skye Blended Scotch Whisky is now available in the U.S. market nationwide at select retailers in 700 ml sized bottles.
Tasting Notes: Isle of Skye 30-Year-Old
Vital Stats: Blended scotch, 700 ml bottle SRP $321.99.
Appearance: Tawny.
Nose: The nose boasts lush, earthy notes like forest floor after it rains, along with rich aromas of fragrant red berries, cinnamon, citrus, buttery caramel, and salted pretzels.
Palate: The palate is just as vivid in complexity as the nose with additional notes of warm spices, black tea, lemon citrus, vanilla, orchard fruits, and brown sugar, with hints of soft leather and chocolate malted balls.
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