Buchanan's Special Reserve Aged 18 Years is the brand's most celebrated age statement whisky, a rich and luxurious blended Scotch built for sipping and special occasions. It comes from the house founded by James Buchanan in 1884, a whisky pioneer who went on to supply the Royal Household, and Special Reserve was created to honor that pioneering spirit. The blend brings together fine single malts and grain whiskies, every one matured for a minimum of 18 years, with the brand noting the use of ex sherry oak to build deeper color and character. The result is well rounded and complex, with a deep assortment of flavors and a long, silky finish. It pours a deep amber and opens with dark chocolate, cocoa and toffee on the nose. The palate is full bodied and generous, layering red plum and orange with honey, caramel and roasted walnut. The finish is long and warming, with honeyed oak, a hint of coffee, vanilla and a soft banana nut sweetness. Bottled at 40% ABV (80 proof), it is best enjoyed neat or on the rocks with a glass of iced water on the side, and it also makes a superb Reserve Old Fashioned. Special Reserve has an impressive competition record, earning Gold medals at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition in 2020 and 2024 and 97 points at the 2019 Ultimate Spirits Challenge. Presented in the classic rounded Buchanan's bottle with a gold capsule, embossed crest and gilded label, it is a standout gift for milestones and celebrations, and a natural step up for anyone who enjoys Buchanan's DeLuxe 12.
ABV / Proof
| ABV |
40% |
| Proof |
80 |
| Size |
750ml |
| Country |
Scotland |
| Type |
Blended Scotch Whisky |
| Age |
18 Years |
| Maturation |
Minimum 18 years, including ex sherry oak |
| Brand Founded |
1884 |
| Importer |
Diageo, New York, NY |
Tasting Notes
Color: Deep amber.
Nose: Dark chocolate, cocoa and toffee with hints of dried fruit.
Palate: Full bodied, with red plum, orange, honey, caramel and roasted walnut.
Finish: Long and silky, with honeyed oak, coffee, vanilla and a soft banana nut sweetness.
FAQ
How old is Buchanan's Special Reserve?
Every whisky in the blend is aged a minimum of 18 years.
What proof is Buchanan's 18 Special Reserve?
This bottle is 40% ABV, which is 80 proof.
What does Buchanan's 18 taste like?
Expect dark chocolate, caramel and honey, with red plum, orange and roasted nuts leading to a long, silky finish.
How should I serve Buchanan's Special Reserve 18?
Enjoy it neat or on the rocks with iced water on the side, or in a Reserve Old Fashioned.
What awards has Buchanan's 18 won?
It earned Gold medals at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition in 2020 and 2024 and 97 points at the 2019 Ultimate Spirits Challenge.
Where can I buy Buchanan's Special Reserve 18 online?
Available here at Liquor On Broadway while stock lasts, with fast insured shipping nationwide.
