I was intrigued to hear about ‘The Tweeddale Blend’ which after having its production halted back in 1940, has now been recreated using the original cellar book recipe by the great grandson of Richard Day, who last produced this blend 70 years ago.
After sampling ‘The Tweeddale Blend’ for the first time, I have to say that I was rather pleasantly impressed.
The nose offers up some very bold sherry infused caramel waves, followed by very fine cheeky wisps of coriander.
There’s the refreshing and wonderlicious aroma of a freshly prepared bowl of fruit salad, that’s full to the brim with slightly under ripened slices of mango and pineapple. Topped off with big juicy, protruding wedges of honeydew and gala melon.
Subtle elements of ginger beer and lime cordial kick in, making for a very summery dramming affair. Before you know it, there’s also a wafting glug of grass infused honey and a stick of celery that’s been sprinkled with some cayenne pepper.
The palate has a deep dark, peppery infused, caramel chew to it. If anything the caramel is a tad too overpowering, sweet and even slightly claggy, which prevents the full wonders of those shy but very present sherry notes coming through.
I know it's a recreation of an original recipe but this dram would benifit greatly if the dominace of the caramel could be cranked down just a notch.
The fruit salad makes a reappearance on the palate, this time covered in fresh zesty shavings of lemon and lime. There's also a bowl of warm, crushed, home made honeycomb for sprinkling, with a hint of an accompanying jug of vanilla Chantilly cream.
Despite its caramel intensity, this is still a very enjoyable blend that has a great balance of grain and single malts. I would also have to add that it’s a great sipping dram for a warm summers evening.
