About this whisky

Black & White began with James Buchanan, a Victorian whisky merchant who set out in the early 1900s to make a Scotch for everyone. He first sold it as 'House of Commons', but drinkers kept asking for it by the colours of its dark bottle and white label, and the name stuck. The two terriers on the label, a black Scottie and a white Westie, were inspired by a dog-show photograph; they starred in the brand's advertising before becoming the face of the bottle.

It is a straightforward, smooth blend of malt and grain whiskies: light malt, honey and citrus with a soft touch of peat on the nose, a gently sweet palate and a clean finish. That easy character is why Diageo pitches it as a Scotch for mixing and sharing. Pour it long with soda or water for relaxed evenings, family adda sessions or a casual weekend get-together.

Key facts

• Created in 1904 by James Buchanan, who wanted a Scotch for everyone
• Originally sold as 'House of Commons'; the black-and-white bottle gave it its lasting name
• Scottie and Westie terrier mascots, inspired by a dog-show photograph, later moved onto the label
• Positioned by Diageo India as a smooth Scotch made for mixing and sharing

Tasting notes

Nose:

Light malt, honey and citrus, with a soft touch of peat

Palate:

Smooth and slightly sweet

Finish:

Clean and gentle

Serve

Long and cool: 60 ml over ice topped up with chilled soda or water, or with ginger ale and a lemon wedge.

Food pairing

Easy with everyday snacks: chicken pakora, aloo chop, beguni or a plate of fish fingers.