Passport Blended Scotch - 1980s - 40%
Context: Created in part by Jimmy Lang (of Chivas fame), Passport was a Seagram’s blend developed during the '60s to appeal to lighter profile whiskey drinkers (think smoooooth). During this period, Seagram’s was high on both blended and light whisky profiles likely to keep pace with the growing clear spirits market (See Four Roses for the bourbon side of this). Glen Keith was always at the heart of this blend, but other Speysides like Strathisla, Allt-a-Bhainne, and Braeval have also featured prominently.
An 80 proofer full of blended Speysides wouldn’t normally be in my wheelhouse, but hey, it was a $9.99 birth year bottle so no harm, no foul.
Nose: Buttery, grassy, and light.
Flavors: Fruity (apples, light florals). Mostly indistinct and light.
Palate Structure: Linear, thin and short.
Alcohol Integration: Drinks hot for the low proof. Poorly integrated.
You’d Dig This If You Like:
Generic highballs
Score: 3 (Wish I Was Drinking Something Else) Completely forgettable. Two-note. The finish is unfortunate. I could mindlessly enjoy this if it was poured for me. But I don’t imagine I’ll be reaching much for this. Time to mess around with some Rusty Nails.
Rating System
10- Reevaluate My Budget
9 - Stash (Two If Able)
8 - Stash (One At The Right Price)
7 - Highly Recommend It To Strangers
6 - Solid - Above Average
5 - Acceptable For The Situation
4 - Not Vocally Complaining
3 - Wish I Was Drinking Something Else
2 - Nothing Nice To Say
1 - Drain Pour