The London Distillery Company - Golden Union Blended English Malt review

The London Distillery Company (TLDC) - Golden Union English blended malt.

50% ABV, Natural colour, No chill filtering

Sample provided by Matt Mckay

Colour: Golden Promise

Nose: Bursting with fruit — blackcurrants, Blue Bird's raspberry jelly, pineapple cream, and cherry cola. Light toasted oak adds depth and balance with a trace of wood char in the background. Ripe, zesty and inviting. Dilution mutes the vibrant fruit. Avoidable.

Palate: Mirrors the nose - sweet, juicy, tropical with oak tannins and mild ginger/white pepper keeping it balanced. Vanilla, sweet lime, pear, and apple skin follow. Mouthfeel is a touch light but flavour delivery remains strong. As with the nose, dilution dulls the impact so best enjoyed neat.

Finish: Short to medium, sweet and fruity with a gentle dryness and touch of tartness.

Overall: This is TLDC’s second innings under new ownership, and helmed by Matt Mckay, ex-Bimber, as the whisky maker. Blended from parcels of Adnam’s and TLDC spirit, matured in ex-Jack Daniels and refill bourbon casks this is a fruit-forward zesty style that’s easy to enjoy and yet engaging. At 50% ABV, natural presentation, and £49.95, it’s great value whether sipped neat, made into a highball, or poured over ice, with a bowl of popcorn and your favourite show. A perfect summer dram.