The Deacon Blended Scotch Whisky is a cocktail-forward blend that embraces a bold, funky character, making it ideal for both sipping and mixing. This whisky is crafted to highlight the duality of smoky Islay peat and the gentle, bonfire-like smoke of Speyside. Its nose offers notes of burnt orange and smoke, while the palate balances juicy citrus with earthy peat and subtle spice.
TL;DR – Designed with versatility in mind, The Deacon’s approachable yet unconventional profile shines in whisky-based cocktails, where its playful funk adds an unexpected twist to classic recipes.
Review: Flavor Camp
Photo: Reece Sims
Flavor Camps
Overall Rating
Total Score: 31/50
Aroma: 5/9
Taste: 5/9
Finish: 3/5
Distinctiveness: 3/5
Overall Drinkability/Balance: 5.5/9
Value for Price: 4.5/8
Appearance: 5/5
Tasting Notes
- Appearance: Rich Gold - The bottle design has a modern, steampunk vibe and is definitely stands out.
- Aroma: A slightly earthy and medicinal smoke (almost a seaweed-like note) is funky on the nose. This is followed by peppered citrus (lemon, orange), and shortbread.
- Taste & Mouthfeel: The smoke is once again earthy, medicinal, mossy, and soft. Vanilla, orange and more baked notes emerge.
- Finish: Medium finish that is sweet on the palate.
- Distinctiveness: This is reminiscent of a few other blended scotches with a hint of peat.
- Overall Drinkability & Balance: Designed with versatility in mind, The Deacon’s approachable yet unconventional profile shines in whisky-based cocktails, where its playful funk adds an unexpected twist to classic recipes.
Product Details
- Distiller: Sovereign Brands (Blended from various Scottish malt and grain distilleries, focusing on Islay and Speyside styles)
- Type: Blended Scotch Whisky
- Age: No Age Statement
- Still Type: Mix of pot and column stills (typical for blended Scotch).
- Cask Type(s): Primarily ex-bourbon barrels
- Origin: Scotland
- Composition: Blend of malt and grain whiskies
- ABV: 40%
- # of Distillations: Not disclosed
- Price: $65-80 CAD (2024) - Depending on the province
Comments / Notes:
Three key points about The Deacon Blended Scotch:
Balanced Smokiness: The Deacon combines smoky Islay peat with the gentler, bonfire-like smoke from Speyside malts, creating a distinctive blend that bridges two styles of whisky
Cocktail-Forward and Funky: It’s designed to be versatile for both sipping and mixing, with a funky edge that adds personality to whisky-based cocktails
Smooth with Citrus and Spice Notes: On the palate, the whisky delivers juicy orange, subtle spice, and a sweet, smoky finish—making it approachable but layered enough for whisky enthusiasts
- Crushable / Daily Drinker
- Cocktail Worthy
- Special Occasion Sipper Only
- Weird & Wonderful
- Skip It
Food Pairing Recommendations: Butterfinger Chocolate Bars
Cocktail Recommendations: Espresso Martini, Amaretto Sour (Morgenthaler Spec), Naked & Famous (instead of Mezcal use this), The Affinity
