Review: 1980s Teacher's

Teacher’s Blended Scotch (1983/1985) - 43%

Context: At the time of this ‘80s bottling, Teacher’s Highland Cream had really found its marketplace groove - second best selling blended scotch in the UK and exported into 150 markets. This vintage would’ve been blended after the acquisition of Glendronach and construction of a new blending facility in Glasgow. The heart of the blend was always said to be some peated Ardmore and a higher than usual malt content. I’ve seen a lot of these out there at 40% ABV. This one has the slightly elevated proof.

Nose: It’s a bright nose that manages to also retain some depth. Lots of grain and orchard fruit. Decent depth. Light smoke.

Flavors: Apples. Pears. Light peat. Quick Oak. Finish leans tart and short.

Palate Structure: Full mouthfeel and a pleasant little ride across the palate. Not overly complex or dynamic, but there is some richness up front and solid clarity.

Alcohol Integration: Mostly dialed in. Finish gets a little angular and boozy.

You’d Dig This If You Like:

Johnny Walker

Compass Box (entry level)

Old Pulteney

Score: 5 (Acceptable) The complexity is low and the finish needs polish, but there's some really rich malt happening up front that I enjoy. Anyone who drinks current entry level blends would get a surefire quality bump if this was their daily driver.

Archived Scores

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

Sources: scotchwhisky.com