1970s John Pitt DeLuxe Blended 43% vol

An unusual and rare bottle of whisky from Southwark Distillers Ltd., Glasgow. Very collectible.

Overview John Pitt Special De-Luxe Blended Whisky is bottled by Southwark Distillers as a 100% Scotch whisky blend, presented at 43.0% ABV in a 750 ml format. While detailed published tasting notes are relatively scarce on major review sites, its style is consistent with other classic blends, and enthusiasts generally appreciate its balanced character .

Appearance In the glass, this blend tends to sport a warm, golden amber hue—a color often reflective of careful cask influence and the melding of malt and grain whiskies. The visual appeal sets the stage for its inviting flavor profile.

Nose On the nose, expect a gentle yet engaging aroma. Initial impressions may include a subtle malt sweetness combined with soft hints of honey and dried fruits. There might be a light trace of spice—a whisper of cinnamon or nutmeg—that adds warmth without overshadowing the delicate fruit and malt notes. This aromatic blend encourages a slow, mindful sip .

Palate The palate reveals a smooth, harmonious profile that is the hallmark of a carefully blended Scotch. You might detect:

Sweet Notes: Hints of toffee and vanilla interwoven with the natural sweetness of malted cereal.

Spicy Undertones: A gentle emergence of spice—perhaps a light zest of cinnamon or nutmeg—that complements, rather than competes with, the sweeter notes.

Malt and Grain Balance: A balanced fusion where the soft malty character melds seamlessly with the lighter grain components, offering an overall rounded taste without harsh edges.

This layered flavor profile makes the whisky accessible and enjoyable, inviting both casual drinkers and seasoned whisky enthusiasts alike .

Finish The finish is generally moderate and lingering. It tends to leave behind a subtle warmth, with echoes of the spice and sweet malty notes experienced on the palate. The aftertaste is smooth and gentle, reinforcing the blend’s overall balance without any overpowering elements .

Versatility and Enjoyment Thanks to its approachable and balanced nature, John Pitt Special De-Luxe works well when enjoyed neat or with a dash of water. The water can help open up the layers further, allowing the nuanced interplay of flavors to reveal itself even more clearly. Moreover, its character makes it a worthy base in classic whisky cocktails, where its subdued complexity can shine as the foundational spirit .

These notes are a composite view inferred from the character typical of blended Scotch whiskies in this vein. If you have the opportunity to sample it, you might discover your own unique interpretations and subtle nuances that add to this whisky’s story.

Beyond Tasting Notes If you’re intrigued by how blending techniques melding different Scotch styles can create such a balanced spirit, it might be fascinating to explore discussions on whisky blending heritage and how individual cask contributions evolve over time. Additionally, comparing similar offerings from other well-regarded blends could provide insights into how subtle variations in formulation affect the overall gustatory experience.