Value Benchmark for Blended Whiskies: What ₹1,500-₹2,500 Gets You
Made by usually blending a grain whisky with a malt whisky, blended whiskies create a more harmonious and balanced flavour profile since it combines the best of both whiskies being mixed. What sets blended whiskies apart from other whiskies are their wide spectrum of flavours — spicy malt whisky with light, sweet grain whisky create a balanced blend.
However, you ought to remain conscious of the price at which you’re buying these if you’re on a tight budget. Multiple options of good-quality blended whisky are also affordable between the range of Rs. 1500 to Rs. 2500 in many states across India. Blended whiskies in this range do not settle for mediocre taste and packaging, offering you equally sophisticated flavours and an overall look. Below, you’ll find out everything you can expect from a blended whisky in this range, right from their specific taste, origins, and uses.
All the Way From Distilleries in Scotland
The making of blended whisky garnered momentum since the mid-1960s in Scotland, when the discovery of mixing with single malt and grain whiskies was made. By combining single malt whiskies, which at the time were fairly potent for the palate, with the relatively new grain whiskies, blenders started creating a more accessible and affordable whisky that was lighter and sweeter in character; making them much more lucrative and marketable to a larger audience.
Moreover, the distilleries in the highlands and lowlands of Scotland also make use of improved distillation processes. Better distillation (done at least twice or thrice) ensures a more balanced taste, with flavours spread evenly in the whisky. Mid-range blended whiskies in the price range discussed so far offer such a well-mixed taste and more.
Also Read: Value Benchmark For Vodka In India: What To Expect In A Mid-Premium Spirit
Balanced and Blended Taste
Within blended whiskies fall different kinds like blended malt whisky, blended grain whisky and blended Scotch whisky. But each type is tied together by a characteristic feature – that of balanced flavours in its blend.
Whether you’re purchasing a regular 750 ml bottle of Black Dog Centenary, J & B Rare, or Black & White, all are blended Scotch whiskies that promise harmony in their flavours post-blending and mixing. The blend involves more than two whiskies; some are a voluminous mix of 32 whiskies, while others include 42 whiskies blended for the exact balanced flavour profile. Blended whisky offers several opportunities to achieve a proportional taste despite being a mix of such varied whiskies by standardising and refining this equilibrium multiple times.
Chances of you finding this particular type of whisky’s taste in the extremes is therefore rare because they are masterfully blended. Conventionally, ten lead whiskies are chosen to determine the base flavours, followed by selecting and adding remaining whiskies (depending on the number required in that blend) that equalise the smoky aroma with signature flavours that are lighter and softer on the palate.
Various Flavour Options
While blended whiskies may seem like a complicated drink, at times featuring more than ten whiskies in the mix, they have a range of flavours that cater to every palate. Whiskies in this monetary range do not compromise on flavour quality offered to consumers, and amateur connoisseurs and mixologists have a remarkable range of flavour options to choose from. From vanilla-flavoured blended whiskies to oak and cinnamon dominating other whiskies, the flavour profile shines through as an important value benchmark when it comes to these drinks. Some whiskies are straightforward and citrussy while others appeal to enthusiasts who are on a budget but still seek vibrant flavours of fruit or orange zest.
The possibilities with flavour and quality when it comes to a blended whisky are not compromised on, even when the price range is such that of Rs. 1500 to Rs. 2500. Now you know that there are plenty of choices when it comes to whisky (whether grain, malt or Scotch) while being easy on your pocket!
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