Dating back to 1864 in Dundee, Scotland, Black Bull was an unusual whisky even then.  Grocery owner George Willsher decided to do a little math.  50% single malt plus 50% single grain = 50% alcohol, or 100 proof.  The single malts come from both the Highlands and Speyside region of Scotland and are aged in ex-Sherry European Oak; while the single grain comes from lowland Scotland and matures in ex-bourbon American Oak.

As for why a black bull?  No one is sure, but it could be because drinking a high-proof whisky is akin to facing down a raging beast.

Black Bull 12-Year-old Blended Scotch Whisky (100 proof)
Visual: Deep orange/gold.
Nose: Slightly heathery, but not smokey in the least.  A bit sweet on the nose with a honeyed tone.  Inviting and delicate.
Taste: A hint of smoke, but more of a malt character comes through.  Mildly sweet with tobacco leaf, straw, creamed corn and oatcake.
Finish: Medium long with much of the flavor quickly fading into a clean and crisp finish.
Overall: A heartier blended Scotch which makes for an interesting Blood & Sand or a Rob Roy.  Or drink it neat with a decent splash of branch water.
GSN Rating: B+

For more information go to: Black Bull Whisky

Filed under: Spirits & Liqueurs