I’ve been writing about alcohol for the past 20 years, with an emphasis on whisky. I continue to learn more about bourbon, rye whiskey, single malt scotch, and blended scotch every day, and there’s always more to learn. One of the most important things I’ve discovered is that price isn’t everything when it comes to versatility, quality, and overall value.
This is especially true in the Scotch world. Single malts get a lot of love, and for good reason. Produced in a single distillery and made from only water and malted barley, this category has garnered major awards and press. Think names like The Macallan, The Glenlivet, The Balvenie and Lagavulin.
However, if you sleep while drinking blended Scotch whisky, you will be limiting yourself. Blended Scotch is exactly what it sounds like. A mix of one or more single malt Scotch whiskies, and one or more single grain whiskies. It is often thought of as a mixing whiskey for cocktails. But there are countless nuanced, complex, and balanced expressions that are perfect for a rainy day drink. Famous expressions come from brands such as Johnnie Walker, Chivas, The Famous Grouse, Cutty Sark, and Compass Box. But there’s one brand in particular that doesn’t get enough love. It’s J & B Rare Blended Scotch Whiskey.
While the award-winning blended whiskey is extremely popular in Europe, it remains undervalued in the United States. Officially called Justerini & Brooks, it was first created in the 1930s for post-Prohibition American consumption. It consists of 42 types of single malt and single grain whiskies, based on Speyside single malt whisky.
Want the latest whiskey news, deals and reviews? Sign up to our Whiskey Wednesday newsletter.
J&B Rare Blended Scotch Whiskey has a memorable flavor profile that begins with aromas of candied nuts, caramelized apple, citrus zest, vanilla bean, baking spice, and oak. The palate is filled with toasted vanilla bean, crème brûlée, sweet malt, winter spice, light minerality, and light smoky wood. The finish is long and lingering, with a warm mix of candy notes of vanilla, oak, and cinnamon.
One of the reasons I love J&B Rare Blended Scotch Whiskey is its versatility. If you love Scotch cocktails, you’ll love what J & B brings to your table. Its memorable, multi-layered flavor profile remains intact even when you mix all the different ingredients in your favorite mixed drink. And while it’s an exceptional mixing whisky, it’s also a great sip. Drink straight, mix with water to release aroma and flavor, or drink on the rocks. You’ll find a surprisingly nuanced and flavorful whisky.
Did I mention the price? Not only is it a drinkable and mixable whiskey with layers of notable aromas and flavors, it’s also incredibly inexpensive. Depending on where you live, you can buy a 750ml bottle for less than $30. That’s correct. Add this Swiss Army Knife look to your home bar for the same price as a four-pack of craft beer.
We’ve said everything there is to say about this award-winning blended Scotch whisky. If you don’t have a bottle at home yet, I recommend going out and buying one (or more). The next time you reach for a bottle to enjoy a rainy day dram or mix into a cocktail, make it J & B Rare Blended Scotch Whiskey.
Related: How to drink Scotch whiskey: Top tips from experts