Edinburgh Whisky’s New Town Collection doesn’t seem available from the ‘usual’ selection of whisky outlets. Instead, the trio of blended malts look designed to appeal to the gifting market (which, I suspect is why I’ve been sent these to review in the run up to Christmas). A curious mix of retailers including Not on the Highstreet suggests to me that Edinburgh Whisky are looking to position their products outside of the usually highly competitive world of direct whisky retail. And distribution via website more commonly used for gifting likely provides the brand with some appeal for shopper who want to look off the beaten track of marque brands, but who at the same time don’t want to be digging to deeply into their pockets at the same time.
The Practitioners Parcel looks somewhat akin to Edinburgh Whisky’s Surgeons Ball – indeed, I believe the core peated constitute to come from the same source from my tasting notes. However, the iteration comes adorned with an 8 year old age statement. Bottled at 46% ABV, it’s available currently for £27.30 directly via Edinburgh Whisky’s webshop.
Nose: Freshly brewed filter coffee, honey, golden syrup and pastry cases are offered up together with chocolate shavings, vanilla and toffee. Vegetal peat smoke wafts gentle, but more as a supporting note, rather than as a primary aroma driver. Reduction reveals additional smoky influence – cold cream, smoked dried grass and ozone.
Taste: A pleasantly oily texture delivers an arrive which is much more peat-centric than the nose suggested. Germoline, felt roofing, burning bracken and earthy mushrooms. Lemon cubes and green apple slices join bright golden cereals, whilst barley water and cask char sit with a sprinkle of white pepper. Water accentuates the sweetness levels greatly – green jelly babies and under ripe pineapple – still with a strong central core of earthy smoke.
Finish: Medium with sweet and tart apples and persisting Highland style peak smoke.
The Practitioner’s Parcel possesses a somewhat subdued nose – but the palate is alive with bright and both earthy peat influence as well as defined fruity character. Similar to the Surgeons Ball, I suspect a generous core of Ardmore’s spirt to be at the heart of this blend - and that’s rarely something I unable to find enjoyment from.
Review sample sent on behalf of Edinburgh Whisky.