John Barr Reserve Blend Scotch Whisky

John Barr Reserve Blend in on my TOP Shelf. Exceptional for the price & amazingly smooth and pleasant whisky-loved it. In today's blog, I intend to cover the following-

-Brief history behind this whisky

-Tasting notes

-SJ's Rating

-SJ's Pro tip

-Food pairing

-Cocktail using this whisky

Reads the product story on its website "James White and Charles Mackay began their career as whisky merchants in Glasgow in 1881. Today White & Mackay is one of Scotland's most esteemed whisky houses earning the title of UK spirits producer of the year by the international wine and spirits competition". Now, this whisky does have quite a legacy since it started more than a century ago. 

Now, who is John Barr? Says the website "John Barr was widely known in his homeland as a first-class whisky man. Born into a whisky-making family in Speyside Scotland,Barr rose through various positions to become Managing Director of the leading scotch whisky business of the day"

John Barr Reserve blend marries single malt and grain whiskies from Speyside & Highland regions. Each component is carefully selected and expertly blended by a third-generation master blender. There is truly some magic that happens which makes it such a well-rounded whisky. 

Vital Stats- John Barr Reserve Blend Scotch Whisky

Price- $21.99 for 750 ml($35 for 1.75L Big bottle with handle)

Age- NAS(No Age Statement)

ABV- 40%

Region- Blend of Highland and Speyside

Distillery- John Barr Company, Glasgow, Scotland

Awards won- 2016, Ultimate Spirits Challenge, Great value & Chairman's award

Tasting info-

Serving glass- Glencairn glass then whisky tumbler

Serving style- Neat, Scotch Sour, On the rocks

Appearance- Dark gold

Aroma- Well rounded pleasant sherry, oak, toffee, apple

Flavor- Sweet, little smokey, sherry, oak, toffee notes

Body- Medium

Finish- Smooth, long, and lingering

SJ's Rating- Top Shelf 

Because it is such a pleasant, well-rounded, and refined whisky for any occasion. Also, loved the versatility of this one since I enjoyed it in almost all variations possible on the rocks, neat, and a cocktail. All tasted fantastic!

Occasions- 4th of July

SJ's Pro tip- Compare this with Johnnie Walker Black. I prefer this because it is higher quality at a lower price(Very rare to find such a combination but it is still possible) 

Cocktail- Scotch Sour(Mix 1.5oz John Barr & 3/4oz freshly squeezed lemon juice with ice in a cocktail shaker. Enjoy!) 

Food Pairing- Mutton bbq. The sweet and light whisky balanced the heavy and spicy texture of goat bbq. 

I am delighted I tried this not-so-popular whisky and found it amazing. Give it a shot! Cheers & Enjoy Responsibly 🥃🥃🥃. Not in the mood to read? Listen to my SingleMaltLives Podcast instead.