Blue Hangar

Anyone who knows us at The Armoury knows that we enjoy a quiet drink from time to time. Time to time meaning each day after 5pm, a quiet drink meaning a glass of whisky or three.

I have been lucky enough to try a few very special things over the course of the last year, and recently in a conversation with a friend, I realised that I haven’t made the best out of what I have partaken of - I have no notes, and only vague memories of what I have liked. The Nectar D’or from Glenmorangie, for example, that was all honey and treacle, a whisky I could drink every day. And the Kilchoman 100% Islay, which was a fantastically smokey, peaty, generous drink.

So I am endeavouring to document each new tipple that finds it’s way to me - if not a guide to others, at the very least a warning as to what so much of the water of life can do to your life expectancy.

The Blue Hangar I am drinking today is Berry Bros. & Rudd’s 4th iteration of their famous blend. Named for the 3rd Baron Coleraine, who was known for being a gad always seen in shades of blue - man after my own heart, and as I am bedecked in Napolitan Azzuro today, it is only fitting that I start here.

A blend of malts between 16 and 34 years old, at first fragrance, the Blue Hangar is warm and round, smelling of honey and citrus fruits, but not at all sharp. Very fragrant and smooth.

The feel in the mouth is equally viscous and round. Generous. It tastes like it has been stewed with fruits, but with also a touch of smokiness. There is none of the cutting sharpness of some, but the flavours are still distinct. It is a beautiful marriage. Cut with a little water, it remains equally syrupy and rich, but the fruits bow a little to the smoke and spice. It stays in the mouth a long time - feels almost coated - but has bright peppery hints at the end.

A superb whisky. This bottle will not last long on my shelf.

3 months ago  /  56 notes