🥃 Buchanan's

Buchanan's is a blended Scotch whisky brand of Diageo, named after James Buchanan, who according to the brand launched his whisky company in 1884. Diageo calls it its second-biggest Scotch whisky and the leading premium Scotch in Latin America. The flagship is DeLuxe, aged 12 years, at 40% ABV.

History. According to Diageo, James Buchanan started in shipping and emigrated to London, and travelling to the Americas showed him that flavour preferences differed from those at home. The brand says he sold his whisky from Scotland to London and Latin America, and that the original bottle was inspired by soldiers sharing water canteens; the Red Lion crest carries the words “Buchanan’s Scotland”.

How it is made. Under the Scotch Whisky Regulations 2009, Blended Scotch Whisky is a blend of one or more single malt Scotch whiskies with one or more single grain Scotch whiskies, matured only in Scotland in oak casks of up to 700 litres for at least three years, at a minimum of 40% ABV. According to the brand, DeLuxe, originally called Buchanan’s Finest Liqueur, is aged 12 years and has a soft, fruity flavour with orange and chocolate notes.

Range. The brand lists DeLuxe 12, Master, Special Reserve 18 Years Old, Green Seal and Red Seal, as well as the flavoured versions Coconut and Pineapple; Diageo dates Pineapple to 2023.

Why this matters to you. This is a blend, not a single malt, so check the label for the version and its age. Flavoured versions are different products from the whiskies. The WHO reminds us that there is no safe level of alcohol consumption.