Here's what to expect from the first Turntable Core line-up whisky (Review)

Wednesday, 15 April 2026 at 12:20

Music and whisky are a perfect match. The brothers behind Turntable Blending House already proved that with the brand’s first drams. The first whisky in the core range of Turntable Spirits is Paradise Funk, a funky fusion of sweet flavours. In this Turntable Paradise Funk Review, you’ll find out whether this whisky hits your groove.

After three limited releases from Turntable Blending House, it’s finally time for the independent bottler’s core range. It consists of three whiskies: Bittersweet Symphony, Smokin’ Riff, and the blend we’re reviewing here: Paradise Funk.

Just like the bottler’s limited edition blends, the trio marries whisky and music in a distinctive way. In the case of Paradise Funk, funk music inspires a sweet, summery spirit. Turntable describes the whisky as a funky and delicate composition.

See, nose, taste

Country	Scotland
Distillery	Turntable Blending House
Whisky type	Blend
Colour	Light gold
Tasting notes	A harmony of caramelized pineapple, soft vanilla, and sweet toffee
Age	Non age statement
ABV	46 percent ABV
Bottle size	70 centiliters
Price	Around 60 euros

A blend to savour

For the first whisky in the core lineup, brothers Alasdair and Gordon Stevenson went for a delightfully sweet elixir. In the spirit of full transparency, Turntable Spirits tells us exactly what’s in the blend before we’ve even taken a sip.

13 percent Knockdhu Virgin Oak Barrel for caramel notes.
18 percent Invergordon Ex-Cognac Barrel for exotic fruit tones.
8 percent Blair Athol Bourbon Barrel for a toffee flavour.
30 percent Unnamed Speyside Virgin Oak Barrel for cinnamon notes.
11 percent North British Virgin Oak Barrel for hints of vanilla.
20 percent Benrinnes Chinkapin Barrel for vanilla.

A glorious summer dram

The moment you lift the glass of Turntable Paradise Funk to your nose, you know you’re dealing with a soft and intensely fruity whisky. First up are aromas of ripe mandarin, apricot, and pineapple. Linger a little longer and gentle notes of spice and cinnamon emerge, staying in the background. But how does it taste?

On the palate, Paradise Funk plays a laid-back, approachable melody that radiates pure summer. It feels like a seasonal hit that opens with a mellow groove. The sweet fruit tones from the Invergordon whisky in the blend take the lead, while vanilla and caramel provide a strong counter-melody.

You’ll also pick up a touch of cinnamon, coming from the Unnamed Speyside Virgin Oak Barrel. Paradise Funk has a short finish. It bows out quickly, clearing the stage for the next sip. After a few sips, the other band members (the other whiskies in the blend) step into the spotlight.

The other whiskies add an extra dimension to this Turntable nectar with a pinch of pepper and hints of toffee. They complement the whisky’s fruitiness beautifully, without ever overpowering it. The melody dancing across your taste buds remains wonderfully smooth: perfect for a party.

Conclusion: Turntable Paradise Funk Review

Turntable Paradise Funk keeps impeccable time. It unfolds like a gentle melody tailor-made for summer, staying composed right through to the finish. That makes it an excellent choice for newcomers exploring whisky, or for anyone seeking a light, easy-going dram in the warmer months.

+ A deliciously approachable whisky

+ Surprising notes emerge after a few sips

+ Ideal for an introduction to whisky

- The finish is quite short

Photo: Turntable Blending House