Malt Riot

Exploring Glasgow Distillery's Malt Riot: The Ultimate Guard Whisky?

When it comes to whisky, there's always something new to discover, and today, we're diving into a bottle that's been sparking my curiosity for a while—Glasgow Distillery's Malt Riot. If you’re someone who enjoys starting your evening with a light, flavorful dram, or you’re looking for a versatile whisky that can hold its own in a cocktail, this might just be the perfect choice for you.

What is Malt Riot?

Malt Riot is a blended malt whisky that’s been on the market since 2020, produced by the innovative Glasgow Distillery. At its core is the Glasgow 1770 Single Malt, which is then blended with other carefully selected single malts from across Scotland. What makes Malt Riot stand out is its approachability and the fact that it’s a product that doesn’t try to be anything it’s not—it's a whisky made for easy drinking, mixing, and enjoying.

First Impressions

One of the first things you’ll notice about Malt Riot is its bottle. It’s got a smoky, almost opaque look that gives it a distinct presence on the shelf. Despite its dark appearance, the bottle isn’t fully opaque, which is a nice touch because you can still see how much whisky is left inside.

Pouring it into the glass, you’ll find that the whisky is quite light and pale in colour, which suggests that no additional colouring has been added. At 40% ABV, the legs are pretty fast, which is typical for a whisky at this proof.

On the Nose

The nose is where Malt Riot really starts to shine. It greets you with bright, vibrant floral notes. You’ll find yourself enveloped by tropical aromas—think foam banana sweets and a hint of heather. For those familiar with Glasgow Distillery’s signature profile, you’ll recognise that distinctive tropical note that’s prevalent in many of their expressions.

Tasting Notes

On the palate, Malt Riot delivers a burst of flavor that’s brief but satisfying. Given the 40% ABV, the whisky is a bit thin in viscosity, but it compensates with its lively flavours. You’ll get those ex-bourbon barrel characteristics—vanilla, a touch of caramel, and a hint of oak. However, it doesn’t dive into deeper, more robust flavours like tobacco or leather that you might find in other whiskies. Instead, it remains light, fragrant, and tropical.

The finish is short, as expected with a lower-proof whisky, but it leaves behind a pleasant spiciness—something akin to white pepper, which adds a nice zing without overwhelming the palate.

Why It’s the Perfect Guard Whisky

So, why do I call Malt Riot a "guard whisky"? For me, it’s the kind of whisky that’s perfect for kicking off an evening. It’s light and easy, making it ideal for those moments when you want to ease into your whisky experience rather than jumping straight into something heavy or cask strength. At around £25-£30 a bottle, it’s also priced right—affordable enough to enjoy regularly without feeling guilty.

One of the things I appreciate about Malt Riot is that it doesn’t pretend to be something it’s not. It’s not aiming to be the star of your collection, but rather a dependable option you can reach for when you want something straightforward and enjoyable. It’s also made for mixing, which the distillery proudly mentions on the bottle. Whether you’re enjoying it neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail like a Glasgow Whisky Sour, Malt Riot delivers a consistent, pleasant experience.

Final Thoughts

Malt Riot is not trying to compete with the high-end, peaty, or complex whiskies that dominate the market. Instead, it fills a niche for those looking for a reliable, versatile whisky that won’t break the bank. It’s ideal for newcomers to the world of whisky, as well as seasoned drinkers who appreciate something light to start their evening.

If you get the chance to try Malt Riot, I recommend giving it a go. It’s a whisky that’s easy to enjoy, whether you’re sipping it neat or mixing it into your favorite cocktail. And at such an affordable price, it’s a great addition to any whisky collection.

Have you tried Malt Riot? I’d love to hear your thoughts! Drop a comment below and let’s discuss.

Cheers!

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