Catto's 12-year-old Green Label Blended Whisky 70cl

James Catto began his retail business in 1861 in Aberdeen and wanted to blend high-quality Highland malt with some accessible (probably also more affordable) Lowland grain whisky. Grain whisky distilling has been around since around 1810 and was (still is) considerably cheaper and easier to make than malt whisky.

Interesting how many whiskies started their life story in a grocery store. Brands like Johnnie Walker, Teacher’s, Chivas and Famous Grouse all have a link to a grocery store. James locked himself away in his basement and experimented until he built a blended whisky that he liked.

He sold whisky in his shop, and as a result of his connection to the founders of P&O and White Star shipping, his whiskies were soon exported all over the world.

Today Catto’s is created by Master Blender Stuart Harvey. The heart of Catto’s whisky is formed by unpeated single malts from among others Balblair, Balmenach, Knockdhu, Pulteney and Speyburn.

Interesting to note, Jim Murray, rates this Catto’s Rare whisky at 92 points and mentions that he likes to drink this at home. (Whisky Bible 2015 Edition).

40% ABV

70cl