New Abrachan Blended Malt Scotch Whisky from Lidl

On a recent trip to my local Lidl I noticed a newcomer on the Whisky shelf, Abrachan Blended Malt. Containing malts from both Speyside and Highland regions. Inspired by Scottish folklore, Abrachan is a mythical beast who roamed the Highlands and Lowlands.

I was impressed by the bottle shape and the labelling, quite unique and inviting, it also mentions that it is peated and smoky, had to buy a bottle and do a wee tasting.

Abrachan Blended Malt Scotch Whisky – 40% Alc/vol 70 cl.

Colour…Rich burnt mahogany

Nose…I found the nose to be somewhat lacking, a little vanilla, a mild citrus burst, a puff of white pepper, not getting much peat or smoke.
Taste…Vanilla, mixed spices, dark chocolate, now getting a touch of mild peated smoke and a splash of sea spray.
Finish…Medium to long finish, vanilla and the mixed spices are still lingering with only the slightest hint of peat and smoke.

I have to admit I was a bit disappointed in this dram , there was nothing outstanding or complex. It did not have any bells and whistles.

When I look at some Whiskies in Lidl’s arsenal I have found the following to be much better and all full of more flavour than this new blended malt.

Ben Bracken Highland Single Malt.

Ben Bracken Speyside Single Malt

Ben Bracken Islay Single Malt

All of these are priced at £17.99 which is only £1.50 more than this new bottling.

Another nice dram from Lidl is the Glen Orchy 5 Year Old Blended Malt priced at £15.49 which is 50p less than the Abrachan.

I gave a wee sample round to my friend and neighbour Dougie and asked for his opinion. He, like me, was disappointed and could not find much to write home about. Dougie also agreed that Lidl has much better drams for sale.