The Famous Grouse - Whisky Review

Time for another dram!

A blended Scotch Whisky produced by William Grant & Sons.

A bit about

First produced in 1896 by Matthew Gloag & Son, and initially called 'The Grouse', it was renamed in 1905 as 'The Famous Grouse'. The company was sold to The Highland Distillers in 1970 and was purchased by William Grant & Sons in 2024.

The name and label refer to Scotland's (unofficial) national game bird - the red grouse.

The Famous Grouse is chill-filtered, has 40% ABV, a gold colour, and is a blend of whiskies from The Macallan, Highland Park and Glenrothes Distilleries, which, after they are married, are aged for up to 6 months in oak casks.

Time to try it!

Nose: Very light overall, very lightly floral with some apples and lemon peel

Palate: Biscuity, slightly sweet, with more citrus peel

Finish: Medium, with a bit of dryness, and more malt

Pros and Cons

Unfortunately, this one is not my cup of tea in any way, shape or form. It doesn't seem to have much going on for it. It feels pretty watered down, and it's honestly bland. And no, it's not horrible, it's just not exciting in any way.

It has some fruityness and sweetness to it, and it obviously goes quite well in most cocktails precisely because of that.

The 2 million cases sold worldwide annually are purely from a price point. You can find it on most UK websites at around £18 for a 70cl bottle.

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In Conclusion

If you want to have a whisky for big batches of summery cocktails or for cooking, it's ok considering the price.

If you want something with a bit more substance for a similar price and you happen to be in a supermarket, perhaps the Ben Bracken Highland Single Malt from Lidl or the Glen Marnoch from Aldi would be a bit more exciting. If you want to spend a few more £, and are still looking for entry-level whiskies, then perhaps try the Glen Moray or the Red Label.

If you want to give The Famous Grouse a try, then you can find it by clicking/tapping here.

As always, please drink responsibly.

If you like this little review, please click on the little heart below and if you've tried this, I would love to hear what you think of it, in the comments below.

I hope life is treating you well.

Take care