A Fresh Perspective on Blended Scotch

Fresh

Author: Inka Larissa, On The Sauce Again.

 

Ardray is a malt-forward blended Scotch that brings a fresh perspective to the category. It’s a well-balanced and complex blend, built from whiskies drawn from no more than ten distilleries across the Suntory Global Spirits and Edrington portfolios. Designed to be enjoyed the way you like it, whether it is neat, chilled (have you ever stored your whisky in the freezer?) or in a cocktail.

Why blends deserve more attention  

 

Blended Scotch has long been overlooked and remained under the shadow of single malts, yet it remains the backbone of the industry with around 90% of the Scotch whisky sales worldwide. Blending is a craft that demands exceptional skills from layering character and structure to balancing all the different whisky styles from various distilleries. Ardray is a great example of how modern blends are pushing past old assumptions (no, blends aren’t boring!) and showing just how refined the style can be.

My impression

 

What stood out to me is how harmoniously the malt and grain components work together. There’s a gentle thread of smoke, soft orchard fruit and a light floral character that gives the whisky an elegant feel. It’s such an easy sipper. Ardray’s recommended “Off the Rocks” serve is a fun serve suggestion for the sunny season ahead.

Another great summer serve is Ardray Highball. Try the recipe below for a refreshing long drink.

 

Summer Highball

 

Ingredients

 

  • 40ml Ardray Blended Scotch Whisky
  • Double Dutch Cucumber & Watermelon Soda Water
  • Lime wheel

 

Recipe

 

Fill a tall glass with ice and pour in the whisky. Top up with the flavoured soda water. Give it a gentle stir and garnish with the lime wheel.

 

You can read my full review, including detailed tasting notes and other cocktail suggestions, over on On the Sauce Again

More To Explore

Expression of a Quest

The heritage, tradition, and wild terroir of Scotland. The delicate artistry of Suntory blenders from Japan.

 

Ardray is a Blended Scotch whisky that challenges expectations. Each bottle holds a fresh perspective on what Blended Scotch whisky can be.

 

ardray cliffside and ocean story card

The Muse

Our Scottish inspiration and a beautiful variety of Scotch Whisky flavours.

ardray scottish terroirs landscape

The Artist

The Suntory blending team in Japan and their elegant expression of blended Scotch.

ardray artist man making whisky