Years ago I tried Ballantine's Blended, back then I thought it had a funny aftertaste that I didn't enjoy. I'm considering giving this another try, what are some thoughts, is it a good blended scotch or just ok? I have to say, back then I always drank my whisky "on the rocks", I now always drink it neat, if that matters.
Ballantine's blended scotch
- Thread starter johnnydee
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These days I would not drink anything from them below the 10Y blended
I'm not a fan. When I was a kid, my dad drank Cutty Sark, I think it's kind of in that class of scotch. Maybe also J&B. Economical, but not great.
You don't have to spend a lot on a scotch, but I think you'd do better off with Famous Grouse, also not going to break the bank. Buy a bottle of each of those and see which you prefer.
You don't have to spend a lot on a scotch, but I think you'd do better off with Famous Grouse, also not going to break the bank. Buy a bottle of each of those and see which you prefer.
Not a fan. When I had to clean out my father's house after he moved to assisted living, I found an unopened 1.75L bottle of it. I only used it for my golf flask. I didn't care for it as an evening sipper. There are much better bottles of relatively inexpensive blended scotch to keep on my bar.
There was a time where I would drink almost anything. I've spilled more booze than most guys ever drink. I'll be ten years sober on 2 May 2025.
Even then, I never drank Ballantine. Or, for that matter, Johnnie Walker Red or Clan McGregor. Or anything in a plastic bottle.
Bad Scotch is an abomination before the eyes of God.
Even then, I never drank Ballantine. Or, for that matter, Johnnie Walker Red or Clan McGregor. Or anything in a plastic bottle.
Bad Scotch is an abomination before the eyes of God.
I understand the cost of shipping (glass increases this), potential breakage, etc... However, any hooch in a plastic bottle is suspect right off the bat as far as I'm concerned. That said, there are plenty of glass bottle examples that are equally suspect, if not out right furniture polish.
If you're looking for value I'd suggest doing a bit of poking around on the web, read a few blog reviews and go to your favorite local purveyor and ask for a recommendation. Having been in and out of the restaurant/bar world since I'm 18, I can count on one hand how many times I've gotten something not to my liking. The selections were still quality, just not exactly to my expectation flavor wise.
These less than ideal choices became the basis for something mixed as opposed to something sipped neat, my preference overall.
Bottom line: drink what you like, no one else need have an opinion on that except you. I'd have guests sit at the bar and say, "I'm not a connoisseur," "I can't tell the difference." My response was always simple and truthful, "You are the EXPERT regarding what you like and don't like and that is good enough."
I did a quick look using the search terms "best value blended scotch" and came up with the following interesting possibilities:
www.liquor.com
vinepair.com
And for fun: best small batch value scotch
thewhiskeywash.com
If you're looking for value I'd suggest doing a bit of poking around on the web, read a few blog reviews and go to your favorite local purveyor and ask for a recommendation. Having been in and out of the restaurant/bar world since I'm 18, I can count on one hand how many times I've gotten something not to my liking. The selections were still quality, just not exactly to my expectation flavor wise.
These less than ideal choices became the basis for something mixed as opposed to something sipped neat, my preference overall.
Bottom line: drink what you like, no one else need have an opinion on that except you. I'd have guests sit at the bar and say, "I'm not a connoisseur," "I can't tell the difference." My response was always simple and truthful, "You are the EXPERT regarding what you like and don't like and that is good enough."
I did a quick look using the search terms "best value blended scotch" and came up with the following interesting possibilities:
The 11 Best Blended Scotches to Drink in 2022
Blended scotch is made from a combination of malt whisky and other grains. We researched the best bottles from a variety of age statements and finishes.
We Asked 15 Bartenders: Which Scotch Offers the Best Bang for Your Buck? (2024)
Scotch is often perceived as a spirit of prestige. It can symbolize class and elegance when displayed on a home bar. It can even be a bit of a power move when you take it off the shelf and pour it for guests. A big reason why Scotch shines with this aura is price: High-end bottles can famously...
vinepair.com
And for fun: best small batch value scotch
The Best Small Batch Single Malt Scotch According To The 2025 World Whiskies Awards
In this feature on the recent results, we turn our focus to the Small Batch Single Malt winners from Scotland.
thewhiskeywash.com
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