Scotch

Whisky Review: Collectivum XXVIII Blended Malt Scotch Whisky

$119

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RATING

8

Whisky Review: Collectivum XXVIII Blended Malt Scotch Whisky

Released in 2017, Collectivum XXVIII was an ambitious and exciting project for whisky enthusiasts.
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Tasting Notes:

About:
This naturally cask strength release is a blended malt built from all 28 operational single malt distilleries that are currently owned by the industry giant Diageo. This limited edition whsiky was released in 2017. The name, Collectivum XXVII, is a reference to the number of single malt distilleries that contributed to the blend, with ‘XXVIII’ being 28 in Roman numerals.
Appearance:
A rich amber with slow beading down the glass.
Nose:
A sweet and sour nose on first sniff it quickly dissipates into a dense chocolate cake sweetness with a herbal twist similar to Drambuie. A real buffet of aromas spanning as far between leather sofas and fresh green applies.
Palate:
The higher ABV is present on first taste but it doesn’t overpower the rush of flavours which arrive as soon as the liquid hits the lips. Spiced nuts and dried fruits paired with a slight hint of smoked meats within the waxy texture.
Finish:
Quite a long finish with plenty of warm pastries and ever so slightly burnt custard.
Comments:
This is a whisky that requires time but will certainly reward your patience. A very rich, complex and powerful dram, it highlights how blended malt whisky deserves the space on any shelf.

What Whiskies Are In The Collectivum XXVIII That Make It Unique?

If you’re familiar with Diageo’s vast portfolio of scotch whisky distilleries, you can likely guess what’s included in Collectivum XXVIII. For those less acquainted, brace yourself—here’s the full list. While the exact proportions of each whisky in the blend remain a mystery, all of the following distilleries are represented:

Auchroisk, Benrinnes, Blair Athol, Caol Ila, Cardhu, Clynelish, Cragganmore, Dailuaine, Dalwhinnie, Dufftown, Glendullan, Glen Elgin, Glenkinchie, Glenlossie, Glen Ord, Glen Spey, Inchgower, Knockando, Lagavulin, Linkwood, Mannochmore, Mortlach, Oban, Roseisle, Royal Lochnagar, Strathmill, Talisker, and Teaninich.

This remarkable blend incorporates whiskies from every one of Diageo’s active scotch distilleries.

Has Anything Like This Been Released Before?

Interestingly, yes. Decades ago, Chivas Brothers released the Chivas Century of Malts, a blended malt (referred to as a “vatted malt” at the time) that combined whiskies from 100 distilleries. Among its contents were whiskies from now-closed distilleries such as Brora, Glenugie, and Glen Mhor. While these contributions were noteworthy, details about the other malts remain unknown.

Unlike Collectivum XXVIII, which features only Diageo distilleries, the Chivas Century of Malts drew from a broader range of sources, including distilleries outside the Pernod Ricard/Chivas Brothers portfolio. However, it’s worth noting that Brora—once closed—has since reopened, offering a tantalizing prospect for future projects of this kind.

Final Thoughts On The Collectivum XXVIII?

Released in 2017, Collectivum XXVIII was an ambitious and exciting project for whisky enthusiasts. Revisiting a concept like this with greater transparency could generate even more interest today. The modern whisky audience increasingly craves detail, and knowing precisely what’s in the bottle adds a layer of enjoyment for those familiar with the distilleries.

For a potential sequel, Diageo might consider focusing on closed distilleries. A blend showcasing rare casks from Port Ellen, Cambus, and other iconic yet shuttered distilleries—whether or not they’re the finest barrels—could captivate collectors and casual fans alike. If such a release were offered at a comparable price point, it’s easy to imagine whisky lovers lining up to buy it.

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Would you be among them?

Pete "Jeff Whisky" Jeffery

Based in the South West of the UK, Jeff brings an irreverent and laid-back approach to whisky reviewing, dispelling any notions of snobbery surrounding the spirit. With a genuine enthusiasm for exceptional drams, he often embraces the whimsical side of whisky. Jeff's tongue-in-cheek whisky content has earned him recognition in the Malt Whisky Yearbook, and he has contributed articles and reviews to numerous whisky platforms.

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