The Deacon
October 16, 2024
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.
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.
Flavor Camp Taste Profile
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
