About this whisky

Black Dog's roots go back to 1883, when a Bombay wine merchant ordered a special blend from Scotland and a young employee, Walter Millard, saw it through; it arrived in India the next year and carried his name as Millard Black Dog. More than a century on, the Scotch is still shipped undiluted from Scotland and bottled in India by United Spirits, part of Diageo. Triple Gold Reserve is the expression many Indian drinkers know best, and its signature is maturation in Oloroso sherry butts, which give it extra richness and roundness.

On the nose there is delicate spice, creamy caramel and fruit. The palate is warm and smooth with a creamy texture, gentle sherry sweetness and a light thread of peat, and the finish carries good spice. It is a well-rounded Scotch for sipping with a little water or over ice, and a popular gift for Bijoya, Diwali and wedding season.

Key facts

• Distilled and blended in Scotland, matured in Oloroso sherry butts
• Brand dates to 1883, when it was first blended in Scotland for a Bombay wine merchant and named after employee Walter Millard
• Bottled in India by United Spirits (Diageo) from Scotch shipped undiluted
• One of the best-known labels in the Black Dog range in India

Tasting notes

Nose:

Delicate spice, creamy caramel and fruit

Palate:

Warm and smooth, creamy, with gentle sherry sweetness and light peat

Finish:

Good spice, gently lingering

Serve

With a few drops of water or over ice; also works with chilled soda.

Food pairing

Its sherry richness suits mutton biryani, kosha mangsho or shami kebabs, and fruit cake at Christmas.