Passport whiskies

History

Seagram created Passport when it was looking for a modern, young Scotch blend for international markets, with an image different from that of traditional blends. The brand relied on Speyside malts from the group’s distilleries, including Glen Keith. In the following decades it became established in Latin America, especially in Brazil, where it is one of the most popular whiskies. When Seagram was broken up at the beginning of this century, the brand passed to Pernod Ricard along with much of its Scotch business. Since then it has remained an affordable blend.

House style

Passport’s style is light and fruity: apple, pear, sweet cereal, vanilla and a touch of honey, with a short, smooth finish. The Speyside malts bring the fruit and the grain the smoothness. It uses no peat. It is a light-bodied whisky without rough edges, designed for drinking with ice, soda or a mixer. It is a consistent, easy style that doesn’t try to surprise but to accompany. With ice and soda it is especially refreshing.

Where to start

Passport Scotch is the catalogue’s only entry and a simple option for mixed drinks. You’ll like it if you’re after a light, affordable blend. If you like it, compare it with other Speyside blends from the same house, such as Ballantine’s Finest or 100 Pipers, to see the differences in style between similar brands. Drink it with ice and soda, or with your favourite mixer. If you want something with more body, the next step is an aged blend such as Chivas Regal 12 Year Old.

• Passport ScotchBlend · 40% ABV