The International Wine and Spirit Competition is one of the world's largest and oldest spirits competition. It is also among the most extensive judgings of Scotch whisky globally. The IWSC has just released its 2025 Scotch whisky judging results. Below are backgrounds and tasting notes on the three Blended Scotch Whisky contenders for the coveted Scotch Whisky Trophy. The winner will be announced on November 12 at the IWSC Gala in London.

Black Bottle Captain’s Cask is a blended Scotch whisky that brings together the tradition of smoky, peated whisky with the versatility of blended Scotch. It’s named for the maritime heritage that inspired the blend, symbolizing the journey of whisky casks across the seas. Produced by CVH Spirits, this distinctive smoky expression showcases a blend of different malt and grain whiskies, with a notable emphasis on peated expressions.

The whisky is bold and smoky on the nose, featuring a persistent, cold peat smoke. Subtle hints of honey, vanilla, and dried fruit notes, especially raisins and figs, provide sweetness to counterbalance the smoke. Additional roasted nuts, dark chocolate, and a subtle iodine/seaweed maritime note add complexity.

On the palate, the peat smoke is pronounced but well-integrated. The whisky is sweet, with a smooth, full-bodied mouthfeel that showcases earthy notes, caramel, dark chocolate, and a hint of dried fruits. It’s slightly savory, evoking its coastal origins, with underlying flavors of roasted coffee and toasted almonds.