Usquaebach (pronounced “oos-ke-bah”) in Gaelic means “the water of life”.  It’s also the name of a brand of blended Scotch whiskies, including the subject of this post – Usquaebach Reserve.  The brand was trademarked in 1877, and is now owned by Cobalt Brands.  According to the brand’s website, this blend contains 50% malt whiskies aged between 16 and 18 years.  The other 50% of the blend is made of up non-age stated grain whiskies, hence the lack of age statement on the label.  Other expressions include a 15-year-old blended malt and “Old Rare” blended whisky.  As of the posting of this article, Usquaebach is available in 23 markets in the US.  Bottled at 43%, Usquaebach Reserve costs about $40 a bottle.

I get light aromas from the nose, including soft vanilla, sweet malt, rubbing alcohol, some straw and toffee.  Medium-bodied, the palate starts with honey malt and sweet toffee.  There’s a little spice and a floral note in the mid-palate.  A hint of smoke and a touch of dried fruit soon develop.  The finish is medium-long with a slightly citrus-sweet note and malt.

Not bad.  Not bad at all.  Usquaebach is a nice combination of sweet, smoke and floral, with a lingering citrus note finishing things up.  The palate isn’t as light as the nose suggests, which is a nice surprise.  There’s some weight in the flavors.  If you haven’t already, Usquaebach Reserve is worth discovering.