The single malt scotch thread [Archive] - LGK - LA Kings Official Online Community

gescom

June 21st, 2007, 02:55 PM

Another vote here for Oban.... it is awfully good.

At the lower-end price-point 10-12 year, Glenlivet was my first--and is still my house whisky. Some may disagree, but it really appeals to my tastes. I can't keep that **** in the bottle!!

I'm big on Cognac over the past few years, so my Scotch vocabulary has taken a big hit.

Mr. I's everyday preference is for Glenfiddich, whereas i'd opt on a blend for everyday and have a bottle of Dewars... if i'm going to go single malt though, i'd stick with my trusty (jiri tlusty) Macallan 12.

considering your recent dips into cognacs, it's no surprise that you'd prefer Glenlivet.... actually, it's a pretty good indicator of you personal palate.

roenick

June 21st, 2007, 02:58 PM

Is there any better three words in the English language then "Single Malt Scotch"?

gescom

June 21st, 2007, 03:01 PM

Is there any better three words in the English language then "Single Malt Scotch"?

"Hand Rolled Cuban"

????

Kingslaw

June 21st, 2007, 03:28 PM

If we are talking 12 year olds, I prefer Glenlivet over The Macallan. I'm with Blotto, I always have a bottle of Glenlivet at the pad.

Arrogant Ba$tard

June 21st, 2007, 03:30 PM

I prefer the 15yo Macallan. I have the 10 also and can really taste the difference. What does this Oban taste like? Is it "peaty" or smooth like Macallan?

OTTo VoN BLoTTo

June 21st, 2007, 03:33 PM

Mr. I's everyday preference is for Glenfiddich, whereas i'd opt on a blend for everyday and have a bottle of Dewars...

Oh dear lord.... d-d-d-d-DEWARS w-w-w-w-white label. The name alone starts me trembling. I can't even have it in the house anymore. It's a love/hate relationship: I LOVE drinking it, but hate waking up at 4am in the neighbors rosebushes with my pants around my ankles. Seriously, with the first gulp that witches brew lays waste to my self control.

gescom

June 21st, 2007, 03:41 PM

I prefer the 15yo Macallan. I have the 10 also and can really taste the difference. What does this Oban taste like? Is it "peaty" or smooth like Macallan?

the 14-year old Oban will definitely drive the same point home that the Macallan 15 does, but the finish is (i'd say) even more delicate than the Macallan 10 or 12. not peaty whatosever and similar to a Glenlivet 25, though not as bold... it is strong enough though that it absolutely will not lose any body even if you were to introduce a little water to it.

blotto, Mr. I, and myself all have a very different #2. however i can taste the distinctions they are tasting in Oban.

Salty Dog

June 21st, 2007, 03:43 PM

Is there any better three words in the English language then "Single Malt Scotch"?
For me - any three words. I can't stand scotch. I've tried and tried but it just tastes like dirty ass to me.

UnderTheGUN

June 21st, 2007, 03:43 PM

GregDM

June 21st, 2007, 04:35 PM

GlenLivet 12 is also my everyday house whiskey. But when I'm 'drinking' It's Lagavulin. I love the smokiness. The first sip is strong but then it settles in so nicely..almost tastes like a campfire. If you have not tries this one you are really missing out. But give it about 5 sips before making your decision. It's a controversial taste but is my fav.

Others are Oban, Macallan 18, Balvanie 15, Highland Park.

Yes the difference between a 10 y.o. and 12 y.o and 18 y.o. is very apparent. I'm pretty desperate when I drink a 10 y.o.

Lagavulin was one of the first I ever enjoyed. I think the salty peatiness of the Islay scotches is really good. I have a bottle of Laphroig (Islay) at home that's pretty good, but kinda "medicinal." Also had some Bowmore 12 (I think) the other day and thought it was a little astringent.

When Highland Park is $39 at BevMo, it's my everday drink.

gescom

June 21st, 2007, 04:36 PM

When Highland Park is $39 at BevMo, it's my everday drink.

no doubt... that's a good price.

GregDM

June 21st, 2007, 04:37 PM

Oh dear lord.... d-d-d-d-DEWARS w-w-w-w-white label. The name alone starts me trembling. I can't even have it in the house anymore. It's a love/hate relationship: I LOVE drinking it, but hate waking up at 4am in the neighbors rosebushes with my pants around my ankles. Seriously, with the first gulp that witches brew lays waste to my self control.

While I'm sure it's good, you're disqualified--it's a blend. :smile2:

GregDM

June 21st, 2007, 04:39 PM

I think I'm getting a list of people I'd drink with at Frozen Fury from this thread...

gescom

June 21st, 2007, 04:44 PM

I think I'm getting a list of people I'd drink with at Frozen Fury from this thread...

the only discouraging thing is that it'll cost you about half the price of a bottle of Oban just to sniff the cork... i had like three of those little wheezes last year like a moran!

UnderTheGUN

June 21st, 2007, 05:02 PM

I used to get invited to scotch tastings by Johnnie Walker. I am not a fan of their product but the tastings were great. All the free scotch you could drink! The Master Blender would come over from Scotland to host the tastings.

One thing that I learned that just fascinates me is the way scotch is blended. Blended scotch's are of course a blend of different single malts. The master blender explained that if you drink a Johnnie Walker scotch today that it will taste the same as if he opens a bottle from 200 years ago. Scotch is blended not by taste but by smell. A single malts taste may vary from year to year due to weather conditions and other variables. Since that will alter the taste of a blend a new recipe has to be created every year. The way he keeps the taste the same from year to year is by smelling samples of all the single malts and then combining some of them in varying amounts. it is fascinating to me that he can keep the taste that consistent.

I also think that having that keen of a since of smell must be awful when just walking through different parts of a town or going over to peoples houses.

OTTo VoN BLoTTo

June 21st, 2007, 07:11 PM

I also think that having that keen of a since of smell must be awful when just walking through different parts of a town or going over to peoples houses.

Lol! I see your point. mf_follow

OTTo VoN BLoTTo

June 21st, 2007, 07:39 PM

While I'm sure it's good, you're disqualified--it's a blend. :smile2:

yeah, I was just making reference to gescom's comment that basically for a cheap "house bottle" (like under $20), a blend like Dewars may be a better buy. No matter what, blends--even the low-end ones can be smoother than like-priced single malts. But Dewars is almost TOO smooth. DANGEROUSLY smooth..... I know. No blends allowed. Got it. So I guess I can't pimp my Suntory Hibiki then. :grin:

Not to run afoul of the Macallan crew, but while the flavor is nice I've always considered it too hot on the finish. For me anyway. Even the 18. Got a bottle as a gift and was surprised that it wasn't more smooth at that price.

Kingslaw

June 21st, 2007, 08:57 PM

For relaxing times make it Suntory time

roenick

June 21st, 2007, 09:16 PM

"Hand Rolled Cuban"

????

Ok, Ok, I give you are right here!

On a side note, I am a big Johnny Walker fan (Blue). On a trip home off a British business trip I stopped in the duty free and had the opportunity to get a good deal on a smaller then a fifth (1/2 liter??) of Blue label. The beauty was the lady gave me some tastes of various JW products. Blue, Green, Gold. The fourth was a unique bottle that I am still kicking myself for not getting. It was a single malt that they only offer in Great Britain. Not a bad start to the day. Fourth quality scotch shots by 9:30 am and then onto a business class flight home. Yes, that was a good day.

Haven't cracked that JW Blue label yet either. Has to have aged five more years. Might be time for a couple of fingers ...

UnderTheGUN

June 21st, 2007, 09:21 PM

Note: Whiskey is not bottle aged. It is aged in wooden casks and then bottled. It will taste the same today as it will in 5 years. So drink up and enjoy.

Fisch

June 21st, 2007, 11:10 PM

the 14-year old Oban will definitely drive the same point home that the Macallan 15 does, but the finish is (i'd say) even more delicate than the Macallan 10 or 12. not peaty whatosever and similar to a Glenlivet 25, though not as bold... it is strong enough though that it absolutely will not lose any body even if you were to introduce a little water to it.

blotto, Mr. I, and myself all have a very different #2. however i can taste the distinctions they are tasting in Oban.

This is something that should be done with all single-malts imho. A dollop of water to cut the alcohol burn so you're left with the sweet bouquet and flavors.

I don't drink enough to need a beater bottle so I buy at the minimum 15yr and up for single malts.
JW Blue is my regular blend.

UnderTheGUN

June 22nd, 2007, 09:17 AM

Mr. Irreverent

June 22nd, 2007, 10:45 AM

If we are talking 12 year olds, I prefer Glenlivet over The Macallan. I'm with Blotto, I always have a bottle of Glenlivet at the pad.

HAWT.

GregDM

June 22nd, 2007, 11:40 AM

Yes, that is one of the things I learned from the JW tastings. Single malts are meant to have just a tiny bit of water added to the glass. This will release the flavor and open it up. They should also be served neat. But I like one cube of ice with mine.

That's what I usually do. I'll put one cube in my glass and swirl it around to get a little melted for that tiny bit of water. Sometimes I'll fish out the rest of the cube.

Arrogant Ba$tard

June 22nd, 2007, 01:11 PM

For me - any three words. I can't stand scotch. I've tried and tried but it just tastes like dirty ass to me.

I guess we'll have to take your word for it. I, myself, have never tasted "dirty ass" before.

Arrogant Ba$tard

June 22nd, 2007, 01:13 PM

Anyone into the "Cask Strength" Scotchs?

Birdman

June 23rd, 2007, 06:09 PM

Laphroaig 15, 30 year if your splurging.

Arrogant Ba$tard

June 25th, 2007, 08:43 AM

Laphroaig 15, 30 year if your splurging.

Very peaty!

Salty Dog

June 25th, 2007, 12:07 PM

I guess we'll have to take your word for it. I, myself, have never tasted "dirty ass" before.
It tastes like scotch. Only chunkier.

hockeyfan1985

July 2nd, 2007, 05:18 AM

I used to drink Laphroig, but Lagavulin is far superior (IMO). It's less medicinal and the peaty flavor is less intense. Both are pricey, but then again, I don't drink this stuff everyday!:skull:

OTTo VoN BLoTTo

July 3rd, 2007, 03:25 AM

Mmm. I'm enjoying a glass of Glenlivet 12 right now (washing down a steak) and I'd like to ask if anyone can recommend a single-malt for the same price: 25 bucks or less that's this good. I'd be happy to try.

UnderTheGUN

July 3rd, 2007, 12:20 PM

$25 is hard to do. The 12 year Balvenie is $32 at BevMo....Actually, Trader Joes has a bottle with the TJ name on it that was decent. I think it was around $20. I would drink it again.

gescom

July 3rd, 2007, 12:29 PM

$25 is hard to do. The 12 year Balvenie is $32 at BevMo....Actually, Trader Joes has a bottle with the TJ name on it that was decent. I think it was around $20. I would drink it again.

the TJ's single malt is manufactured by a big hitter company whose name escapes me right now... you MAY be able to nab the Balvenie at TJ's for cheaper as well. they are always seemingly putting the 12-year on sale.

and personally, i like it much better than the more expensive Double Wood.

OTTo VoN BLoTTo

July 3rd, 2007, 12:38 PM

gescom

July 3rd, 2007, 01:02 PM

To be fair, I should probably up that challenge to $30.00--that would be closer to Glenlivet's average retail price. $25 is Costco.

TJ's single malt, huh? gescom, If you remember who bottles it please post the name.

according to this guy...

The TJ's House Label single-malts are made by a variety of distillers. The name of the distillers are clearly stated on the labels. So far, I have seen single-malts distilled by Macallan, Bowmore and Aberlour. They have ranged from 10 to 14 years in age.

and another guy...

An 18-year old Islay single-malt, distilled by Bowmore, is being sold under the Trader Joe's label for $40.

so, play at your own risk!

OTTo VoN BLoTTo

July 3rd, 2007, 01:21 PM

so, play at your own risk!

Thanks for the info, ges. No TJ's in Hawaii anyway, but I'll tell me old man. Let him be the guinea pig. And if it's good (an 18-year for $40??) he can send me one. Or 3.

GregDM

August 3rd, 2007, 09:14 AM

My girlfriend got me a bottle of Macallan 18 for my birthday. Yummy.

GregDM

August 3rd, 2007, 09:18 AM

the TJ's single malt is manufactured by a big hitter company whose name escapes me right now... you MAY be able to nab the Balvenie at TJ's for cheaper as well. they are always seemingly putting the 12-year on sale.

and personally, i like it much better than the more expensive Double Wood.

As far as Balvenie goes, I like the 10 year old Founder's Reserve more than the Doublewood. The 10-year is around $30 at BevMo.

Watti

August 24th, 2008, 03:49 PM

Don't mean to disrupt the aging process of this thread, but...

Every once in a while I pretend to become interested in my family heritage (I even have a bagpipe practice chanter ;)) and have at several times in the past tried to acquire an appreciation for Scotch. My mistake has obviously been to buy the bottom shelf stuff, but yesterday I finally shelled out a little bit more ($26 or so at Trader Joe's) looking for an improvement over the $10 stuff and I definitely succeeded in that. I bought the 12-year Glenfiddich:

http://img79.imageshack.us/img79/112/glenfiddichcaoranreservov8.jpg

The difference between this bottle and those I've had in the past is huge. I'm pretty sure this falls at the bottom of the barrell price-wise (and therefore probably quality) in terms of decent Scotch, but it's the type of drink that I actually don't want more after my first glass because I want the bottle to last... At the same time I'm eager to try out other types to really get a feel for what I like.

I'm not just trying to get hammered as easily as possible but would rather go all snobby and try to dissect a complex "dram", so I want to stick to single malts. And after reading up a bit I think I'm looking for something with a much more "smokey" character; overall, just something that is good but with a noticably different character than the Glenfiddich (from the sounds of it, maybe an Islay distillery?). Like I said before, nothing against the Glenfiddich, I'm just trying to get a feel for what's out there. Any recommendations that hopefully fall somewhere close to the same beginner/novice/noob price range?

Crazy_Ivan

August 24th, 2008, 04:07 PM

lunchbox

August 24th, 2008, 06:31 PM

just graduated mr. box to this for our anniversary:
http://www.thewhiskyexchange.com/ProductImage.aspx?pc=GLVOB.21YOV5&w=150

i get the rest of the glenlivet 18, which i usually drink with one ice cube in as well.

i was just at a wedding and their only scotch choices were dewars, johnnie walker and something else. i had 4 JWs and proceeded to black out for a period of time after the wedding to when we all went to the beach... i don't know if i'll do that again... ah, who am i kidding! that was some good times!!! but rest assured you connoisseurs, i sip and enjoy the high quality stuff.

Kosherhamm

August 25th, 2008, 01:41 AM

Cutty Sark...

Mr. Irreverent

August 25th, 2008, 03:48 AM

Scotch Hunter : A Guide To Single Malt Scotch : The Best Single Malt Scotch Site : Single Malt Scotch Tasting Notes : Scotch Nosing and Tasting Tips : Our Favorite Single Malt Scotch (http://www.scotchhunter.com/cgi-bin/cp-app.cgi)?

Malt Madness - about single malt scotch whisky, (http://www.maltmadness.com/)

for ratings go:

http://scotchhunter.com/cgi-bin/cp-app.cgi?usr=51H6784666&rnd=8994873&rrc=N&affl=&cip=147.21.16.3&act=&aff=&pg=star_ratings

OTTo VoN BLoTTo

September 1st, 2008, 07:55 PM

Islay whiskies are excellent for that smokey peaty taste, the strongest in taste is Laphroaig but there are also some good ones like Lagavulin, Bowmore and a couple of others. However I prefer Talisker for a smokey whisky, it is from the Isle of Skye and is just an awesome Whisky and distillery.

Working my way through a first bottle of Talisker presently. Kinda strange that I absolutely LOVE heavily smoked foods, but don't like the super-peaty Whiskies at all---especially the Lagavulin and Laphroaig mentioned above. They taste like mountains of burning tires to my palate. Even the first whiff of the Talisker turned me off considerably, but after opened for a bit, some of that smoke blew off and revealed REALLY nice depth and secondary flavors. I've also found that smoking a cigar with it diminishes the smokiness and allows the other flavors to show forth even more. Wouldn't mind trying this with the others.

One that I REALLY like is the Glenfarclas 21. Got one at Duty Free last year and it didn't last long at all. DAMN that's good ****! Another Duty Free run coming up in October.... probably pick up at least two or three 21'ers. The prices are just too good to pass up.

Crazy_Ivan

September 3rd, 2008, 09:37 AM

Working my way through a first bottle of Talisker presently. Kinda strange that I absolutely LOVE heavily smoked foods, but don't like the super-peaty Whiskies at all---especially the Lagavulin and Laphroaig mentioned above. They taste like mountains of burning tires to my palate. Even the first whiff of the Talisker turned me off considerably, but after opened for a bit, some of that smoke blew off and revealed REALLY nice depth and secondary flavors. I've also found that smoking a cigar with it diminishes the smokiness and allows the other flavors to show forth even more. Wouldn't mind trying this with the others.

One that I REALLY like is the Glenfarclas 21. Got one at Duty Free last year and it didn't last long at all. DAMN that's good ****! Another Duty Free run coming up in October.... probably pick up at least two or three 21'ers. The prices are just too good to pass up.

Actually I just finished a tasting/training on malts that we stock(I own a pub here.) and Glenfarclas was rated as the 2nd best speyside whisky.

gescom

September 3rd, 2008, 09:49 AM

Working my way through a first bottle of Talisker presently. Kinda strange that I absolutely LOVE heavily smoked foods, but don't like the super-peaty Whiskies at all---especially the Lagavulin and Laphroaig mentioned above. They taste like mountains of burning tires to my palate. Even the first whiff of the Talisker turned me off considerably, but after opened for a bit, some of that smoke blew off and revealed REALLY nice depth and secondary flavors. I've also found that smoking a cigar with it diminishes the smokiness and allows the other flavors to show forth even more. Wouldn't mind trying this with the others.

One that I REALLY like is the Glenfarclas 21. Got one at Duty Free last year and it didn't last long at all. DAMN that's good ****! Another Duty Free run coming up in October.... probably pick up at least two or three 21'ers. The prices are just too good to pass up.

that Islay stuff is some seriously mossy business, huh?

Watti

September 3rd, 2008, 10:47 AM

They taste like mountains of burning tires to my palate. Even the first whiff of the Talisker turned me off considerably, but after opened for a bit, some of that smoke blew off and revealed REALLY nice depth and secondary flavors.

that Islay stuff is some seriously mossy business, huh?

Sounds like that's what I'm looking for. :good:

gescom

September 3rd, 2008, 10:58 AM

Sounds like that's what I'm looking for. :good:

i'm not certain about all Islay whisky, but if i'm not mistaken, Laphroaig actually uses the water from the bogs or something like that... OUCH, double peaty... er, re-peat!

Lososaurus

September 12th, 2008, 01:59 AM

Don't mean to disrupt the aging process of this thread, but...

Every once in a while I pretend to become interested in my family heritage (I even have a bagpipe practice chanter ;)) and have at several times in the past tried to acquire an appreciation for Scotch. My mistake has obviously been to buy the bottom shelf stuff, but yesterday I finally shelled out a little bit more ($26 or so at Trader Joe's) looking for an improvement over the $10 stuff and I definitely succeeded in that. I bought the 12-year Glenfiddich:

http://img79.imageshack.us/img79/112/glenfiddichcaoranreservov8.jpg

The difference between this bottle and those I've had in the past is huge. I'm pretty sure this falls at the bottom of the barrell price-wise (and therefore probably quality) in terms of decent Scotch, but it's the type of drink that I actually don't want more after my first glass because I want the bottle to last... At the same time I'm eager to try out other types to really get a feel for what I like.

I'm not just trying to get hammered as easily as possible but would rather go all snobby and try to dissect a complex \"dram\", so I want to stick to single malts. And after reading up a bit I think I'm looking for something with a much more \"smokey\" character; overall, just something that is good but with a noticably different character than the Glenfiddich (from the sounds of it, maybe an Islay distillery?). Like I said before, nothing against the Glenfiddich, I'm just trying to get a feel for what's out there. Any recommendations that hopefully fall somewhere close to the same beginner/novice/noob price range?

I actually really like the Glenfiddich 12,15,18 years a lot. The 12 has a fruity, kind of pear taste. The 15 is kind of raisin-y and the 18 is like cinnamon and apples. At least that's what I get out of them.

If you want smokey, I suggest Laphroaig.

OTTo VoN BLoTTo

December 9th, 2008, 03:26 PM

OK. time for a bump.

I'm always searching for a true everyday single-malt that's better for the price ($35 and down) than my trusty ol' Glenlivet. Boy, I sure found it:

http://whiskyblog.lastminuteliving.com/SingletonGlendullan.jpg

At 35 bones this stuff kicks Glenlivet's ass up and down the block for days. Not even a fair fight. This has GOT to be the reigning champ, as the complexity and length is INCREDIBLE at this price point. The Aberlour 12 I was liking quite a bit for $33, but The Singleton has won my heart and a permanent place in my cabinet for everyday drinking. Cool flask-shaped bottle too. I strongly recommend tracking down a bottle.

Here are some pretty accurate tasting notes I found:

Producer's Tasting Notes

Appearance: Deep gold, polished mahogany highlights.

Nose: Approachable and rich. First polished wood and nuts (toasted hazelnut) dominate, then rich fruits, both stewed (baked apples) and dried (sweeet dates) take over, with soft brown sugar. Behind this, a stick of liquorice. Mossy. Water brings out a sweeter, more direct Speyside character (citrus fruits, pear drops!). Clean and dense. After a while, warm, dry aromas of pencil shavings or match-sticks.

Body: Smooth. Medium.

Palate: Sweetness and crunchy nuts impress at first, then there's a smooth, fruity Speyside richness to enjoy. Firm, with a balancing sweetness: hints of blackcurrant fruit, brown sugar and espresso coffee. Warming and pleasant. With water, still a pleasant texture. Light sweetness, then chewy and balanced by a light acidity, with a good spread of flavours mid-palate.

Finish: Medium to long. Elegantly drying and crisp; then a sweetly nutty delayed warmth, which lingers pleasantly.

Dig it!! :chug:

Mr. Irreverent

December 9th, 2008, 03:27 PM

gescom

December 9th, 2008, 03:30 PM

w00t!

Genghis John

December 9th, 2008, 03:35 PM

I am going to have try that one....

Otto how would you compare The Singleton to The Macallan?

Mr. Irreverent

December 9th, 2008, 03:49 PM

Btw I have a Limited Edition Balvenie 17YO Sherry Oak. Anybody else try this yet? I can't say I like it all that much... Expensive bottle too.

lunchbox

December 9th, 2008, 04:25 PM

this is the one i'm currently on:

http://www.infoserv.se/uisge/talisker18.jpg

it's got a spicy, peppery kick but once that's gotten over with, it's pretty smooth going down. i was doing the ice cube thing with it before but now i'm accustomed to just drinking it neat.
normally at $80, i got it for $57 at hi-times.

mr. box is on this, which i got for him as an anniversary gift:

http://www.bienmanger.com/images/genre/1576-0w300h300_Whisky_Glenlivet_Archive_Years.jpg

i like the glenlivet 18 better. it's overall more smooth.

i just got this for my father in law as a christmas gift:

http://www.whisky-online.be/images/glenfarclas_21.jpg

hopefully, he'll share a pour of it with us before we depart after the holiday.

i've got my eye out for another bottle of something else that i'm getting as a gift for someone. still deliberating on what that shall be...

gescom

December 9th, 2008, 04:27 PM

i've got my eye out for another bottle of something else that i'm getting as a gift for someone. still deliberating on what that shall be...

i prefer Oban.

Mr. Irreverent

December 9th, 2008, 04:50 PM

i prefer Oban.

:rofl:

PuckMonkey

December 9th, 2008, 05:23 PM

Man, I miss sipping good - really good - Scotch. This thread is making me cry.

Kingslaw

December 9th, 2008, 06:31 PM

What type of glassware do you guys prefer for drinking scotch? Does it even matter?

OTTo VoN BLoTTo

December 9th, 2008, 06:31 PM

Otto how would you compare The Singleton to The Macallan?

Ahh man, I haven't had Macallan in quite some time so it would be difficult to compare. But I always found Macallan to be a bit harsh. Even the 21. Great flavor, but almost too harsh to drink neat. I should probably try it again sometime to refresh my memory. I can say though that the Singleton is VERY smooth for the price.

Btw I have a Limited Edition Balvenie 17YO Sherry Oak. Anybody else try this yet? I can't say I like it all that much... Expensive bottle too.

Haven't tried it. What don't you like about it?

this is the one i'm currently on:

http://www.infoserv.se/uisge/talisker18.jpg

it's got a spicy, peppery kick but once that's gotten over with, it's pretty smooth going down. i was doing the ice cube thing with it before but now i'm accustomed to just drinking it neat.
normally at $80, i got it for $57 at hi-times.

mr. box is on this, which i got for him as an anniversary gift:

http://www.bienmanger.com/images/genre/1576-0w300h300_Whisky_Glenlivet_Archive_Years.jpg

i like the glenlivet 18 better. it's overall more smooth.

i just got this for my father in law as a christmas gift:

http://www.whisky-online.be/images/glenfarclas_21.jpg

hopefully, he'll share a pour of it with us before we depart after the holiday.

I LOVE the Glenfarclas 21!!! Got one at Duty Free last year, and drank almost the whole bottle with a friend in one sitting. It was too damn good to put down.

I couldn't agree more on the Talisker. I hated it at first, then was morbidly fascinated, then I kinda liked it, then I just downed the whole ****ing bottle. The burning tire thing overwhelms at first, but when it blows off behind it are some deep and really gorgeous second and third-tier flavors.

And interesting that the Glenlivet 18 is smoother than the 21. Could be teh casks they used.

i prefer Oban.

Oban is another one that's hard to stop drinking. Actually I could go for one right about now.....

Man, I miss sipping good - really good - Scotch. This thread is making me cry.

You can't drink? If you don't mind me asking, how come?

Hey, is anyone familiar with teh Highland Park whiskeys? Any good?

Stormy2213

December 9th, 2008, 07:10 PM

Wow, in one week, due to Bogey's direction (infinite karma) I find a beer thread, a wine thread, and a scotch thread. Is there also a bourbon thread? That would make my day. BTW, my favorite scotch for the last 12 years has been Highland Park, made in the Orkney Islands. Heaven in a bottle man. Just heaven. Any souls of a like mind out here?

ketel&tonic

December 9th, 2008, 07:10 PM

I want to give scotch a try. My palette just isn't quite there yet. I still feel like I'd get the same taste if I siphoned gas out of my car. *shiver* eeesh

Stormy2213

December 9th, 2008, 07:17 PM

Hey, is anyone familiar with teh Highland Park whiskeys? Any good?

Yes, and it's tip top. I would recommend having a bottle on hand always. Even my non-scotch drinking friends like Highland Park. Of course they may just say that b/c they know I'm a whisky/whiskey freak.

Stormy2213

December 9th, 2008, 07:31 PM

I want to give scotch a try. My palette just isn't quite there yet. I still feel like I'd get the same taste if I siphoned gas out of my car. *shiver* eeesh

Start with a blend and then go from there. Or try bourbon if the peaty/smokey taste of scotch is too much. I prefer bourbon but will not let a good scotch get away from me. Bourbon is going to be sweeter but you'll get just as much of the complexity as you get in scotch. It's just different.

Watti

December 9th, 2008, 09:15 PM

Kings down 6-1 going into the 3rd, looks like I chose the right day to pick this up:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v649/mcphersonm80/Laphroaig002.jpg

This stuff is insane! And I say that in a good way :)

I love the smokey, peaty, salty madness contained in this bottle, never had anything like it...

Chateau Bow Wow

December 9th, 2008, 09:27 PM

I want to give scotch a try. My palette just isn't quite there yet. I still feel like I'd get the same taste if I siphoned gas out of my car. *shiver* eeesh

Check out the link below, it may help you develop your scotch palette.

Max Riffner: Know How to Drink Scotch? (http://www.maxriffner.com/parlor/know-how-to-drink-scotch)

lunchbox

December 9th, 2008, 11:58 PM

i prefer Oban.

change of plans! :5smile:
lawlz.

What type of glassware do you guys prefer for drinking scotch? Does it even matter?

i got these ralph lauren glen plaid crystal double old fashions and decanter (no highball) as a gift for mr. box:

http://slimages.macys.com/is/image/MCY/products/9/optimized/408769_fpx.tif?bgc=255,255,255&wid=327&qlt=90,0&layer=comp&op_sharpen=0&resMode=bicub&op_usm=0.7,1.0,0.5,0&fmt=jpeg

I LOVE the Glenfarclas 21!!! Got one at Duty Free last year, and drank almost the whole bottle with a friend in one sitting. It was too damn good to put down.

yay. good to hear. i went off mr. sexypants' scotchhunter site for that... so if my pops in law digs, then thanks mr. sexypants!

I couldn't agree more on the Talisker. I hated it at first, then was morbidly fascinated, then I kinda liked it, then I just downed the whole ****ing bottle. The burning tire thing overwhelms at first, but when it blows off behind it are some deep and really gorgeous second and third-tier flavors.

precisely. i went from hate to love after about 3 glasses. :becky:
definitely one of those acquired tastes, but once you've broken yourself in, there's so much to appreciate in there.

And interesting that the Glenlivet 18 is smoother than the 21. Could be teh casks they used.

it might be just me. mr. box enjoys it just fine. it's mostly his gift to enjoy as well, so i haven't had more than a pour or two.

Hey, is anyone familiar with teh Highland Park whiskeys? Any good?

another guy i'm acquainted with says highland park is next on his hit list.
to get a feel for his tastes, he also likes: caol ila, bruichladdich rocks, laphroaig, and talisker.
btw, here's a fun fact: dude says the peaty flavors come from the burning of peat when the barley is being malted. said peat comes from the bogs and moors.

Mr. Irreverent

December 10th, 2008, 08:40 AM

Haven't tried it. What don't you like about it?

Well I had some last night with a bit of water in it to smoothen it out and it tasted much better. It's a very sweet and fiery (harsh) tasting scotch so needless to say it's not for the rookies. This is almost the prefect scotch to drink in cold weather.

OTTo VoN BLoTTo

December 10th, 2008, 12:48 PM

What type of glassware do you guys prefer for drinking scotch? Does it even matter?

If you drink it neat (no water, no ice) I STRONGLY recommend the Riedel Sommeliers Single Malt Whisky glass:

http://www.rosehillwinecellars.com/3rsV2/50_RHWC_prod/small/416_80_riedel_glasses_vinum_single_malt_whiskey_sm .jpg

Actually, it's easily big enough that you can add water or even a few ice cubes if you want, but it would defeat the purpose. It's scientifically developed to concentrate the aroma, reduce the strong presence of alcohol and harshness if any, and deliver the whisky to the exact right part of your tongue to maximize it's smoothness, character, and enjoyment. Sounds a bit anal, but it's no joke. IT WORKS!!! It's probably the worlds best whisky glass. Looks great and FEELS great to hold. Once you have one you can't live without it. And just in time for the holidays! :grin: I also have their Sommelier series Cognac glass, and while similar, it actually does make Scotch taste noticeably different then the one above. Riedel has certainly done their homework.

If you like a more traditional heavier glass full of ice and water, Baccarat makes some AWESOME tumblers. They're not cheap, but not crazy either for such a beautiful and substantial piece of cut crystal. Makes an incredible gift for yourself or any Scotch lover who's worthy. Wander in next time at teh mall.

Well I had some last night with a bit of water in it to smoothen it out and it tasted much better. It's a very sweet and fiery (harsh) tasting scotch so needless to say it's not for the rookies. This is almost the prefect scotch to drink in cold weather.

Dude, that's like $110+ bucks? Ya know, try that Riedel. It'd probably smooth it out considerably and even reveal some of the depth you've paid for. And for a few bucks more, you could go for the Balvenie PortWood 21, which is partially aged in old Port casks. It's like $125+, but one of the best things I've ever tasted. HOLY CRAP it's dark, rich, smooth as silk, and ****ing deadly.

Watti

December 10th, 2008, 12:55 PM

If you drink it neat (no water, no ice) I STRONGLY recommend the Riedel Sommeliers Single Malt Whisky glass:

http://www.rosehillwinecellars.com/3rsV2/50_RHWC_prod/small/416_80_riedel_glasses_vinum_single_malt_whiskey_sm .jpg

Hm... do want.

Is that something that a place like BevMo would carry or does it have to be ordered?

Kingslaw

December 10th, 2008, 01:01 PM

Just checked bevmo.com and they do have it.

OTTo VoN BLoTTo

December 10th, 2008, 01:34 PM

Is that something that a place like BevMo would carry or does it have to be ordered?

I've seen it all over the place. But the price varies A LOT, so call around first to get the best deal. Wine shops that also carry liquor might have it on sale too.

darby

December 10th, 2008, 04:08 PM

This thread lost me somewhere on page 2.

Kingslaw

December 11th, 2008, 01:10 PM

If you drink it neat (no water, no ice) I STRONGLY recommend the Riedel Sommeliers Single Malt Whisky glass:

http://www.rosehillwinecellars.com/3rsV2/50_RHWC_prod/small/416_80_riedel_glasses_vinum_single_malt_whiskey_sm .jpg

Actually, it's easily big enough that you can add water or even a few ice cubes if you want, but it would defeat the purpose. It's scientifically developed to concentrate the aroma, reduce the strong presence of alcohol and harshness if any, and deliver the whisky to the exact right part of your tongue to maximize it's smoothness, character, and enjoyment. Sounds a bit anal, but it's no joke. IT WORKS!!! It's probably the worlds best whisky glass. Looks great and FEELS great to hold. Once you have one you can't live without it. And just in time for the holidays! :grin: I also have their Sommelier series Cognac glass, and while similar, it actually does make Scotch taste noticeably different then the one above. Riedel has certainly done their homework.

If you like a more traditional heavier glass full of ice and water, Baccarat makes some AWESOME tumblers. They're not cheap, but not crazy either for such a beautiful and substantial piece of cut crystal. Makes an incredible gift for yourself or any Scotch lover who's worthy. Wander in next time at teh mall.

Man you were not kidding. I picked one up last night at my local BevMo and tried the glenlivet 12. Now, I usually drink my scotch with a little bit of ice but with this glass there is no need for it. Not only did the glenlivet taste much different and smoother it also smelled much different. Thanks for the recommendation!!!!

job

December 11th, 2008, 01:15 PM

Glenlivet in a simple rocks glass.

OTTo VoN BLoTTo

December 11th, 2008, 02:34 PM

i got these ralph lauren glen plaid crystal double old fashions and decanter (no highball) as a gift for mr. box:

http://slimages.macys.com/is/image/MCY/products/9/optimized/408769_fpx.tif?bgc=255,255,255&wid=327&qlt=90,0&layer=comp&op_sharpen=0&resMode=bicub&op_usm=0.7,1.0,0.5,0&fmt=jpeg

Wow Lunchie. VERY classy.... as opposed to, say... trashy? :grin:

Man you were not kidding. I picked one up last night at my local BevMo and tried the glenlivet 12. Now, I usually drink my scotch with a little bit of ice but with this glass there is no need for it. Not only did the glenlivet taste much different and smoother it also smelled much different. Thanks for the recommendation!!!!

Bitchen! Really glad you like it! SO different, right? Hope BevMo's price was reasonable, cuz I've seen it on the net for an arm and a leg. But worth the investment as it fully maximizes the character of your Scotch and boosts your experience. And cleaned and polished properly you can keep it pristine for damn near ever. Funny thing, Kingslaw, is that now you can never go back. I broke one accidentally and went the very next afternoon to replace it. Even cheaper stuff that I'll drink on the rocks always gets evaluated in this first.

Enjoy! :keg:

Kingslaw

December 11th, 2008, 03:49 PM

It was 19.99 per glass at BevMo. I think Amazon has a set of two for $38 but you throw in shipping and it's about the same.

Two thoughts crossed my mind as I was drinking: 1) I'm in trouble, this is going to make me drink way too much and 2) I wonder if they make a travel case for it.

OTTo VoN BLoTTo

December 11th, 2008, 04:54 PM

It was 19.99 per glass at BevMo. I think Amazon has a set of two for $38 but you throw in shipping and it's about the same.

Trip out.... I just realized there are TWO: The Sommelier series, and the VINUM series. But just from the pics I can't notice any difference whatsoever. I'm sure mine is also the Vinum then, cuz that's about what I paid. The Somm. series version is 50 to 75 bucks per glass. As with their other Somm. series glassware it's probably a thinner, more delicate crystal, but **** that. The shape is EXACTLY the same. Cool! At a mere 20 bones even more reason to buy one... or four.

Two thoughts crossed my mind as I was drinking: 1) I'm in trouble, this is going to make me drink way too much and 2) I wonder if they make a travel case for it.

To your first point, personally, I tend to drink less volume when drinking neat. It's easy to kill a big-ass tumbler when it's watered down. On the case... I know the Somm. series comes in a nice (stiff cardboard) tube, but it's stuffed with paper only for cushion. Here's a thought: how sweet it would be to have a Pelican case like this:

http://static.photo.net/attachments/bboard/00C/00CV97-24064584.jpg

and pull the tear-out foam so that it snugly fits one bottle and two of these glasses. I just may do this. Thanks for the inspiration!!

Kingslaw

December 11th, 2008, 05:54 PM

I meant drink more in that I can see myself having a glass twice a week. Currently, I average a glass every two weeks, if that.

Also, the reason I thought about a travel case was because I would hate to have the opportunity of trying a really high quality scotch without the glass.

Stormy2213

December 11th, 2008, 08:59 PM

http://www.rosehillwinecellars.com/3rsV2/50_RHWC_prod/small/416_80_riedel_glasses_vinum_single_malt_whiskey_sm .jpg

Anybody asks me what I want for Christmas - this will be my reply. Maybe I can get a few. I imagine these will be great for our annual bourbon festival.

Watti

February 9th, 2009, 11:56 AM

http://www.waitrosewine.com/jl_assets/product/230201961.jpg

Paulatron (http://www.letsgokings.com/bbs/members/9304.html) got me a bottle of this for my birthday yesterday. :good:

My 3rd bottle of real Scotch. First impression is that I definitely prefer it to the 10-year Laphroaig I finished a few weeks ago, but by no means is that a knock against Laphroaig. I'm definitely a fan of that. And to me, both of them are far superior to the first one I bought, Glenfiddich 12.

The Talisker is extremely good, and I'd say after one glass it's not quite as peaty but just about as smokey as the Laphroaig, but the actual flavor of the smoke of the Talisker is more up my alley, a lot more "camp fire"-y. Before drinking it we had chili for dinner, so I'm not sure if it enhanced it or what but I could definitely see what people mean when they give it a spicey taste in the back of the throat. It really leaves a lot of flavor in your mouth and you kind of have to poke around with your tongue to take it all in. :)

Again, to compare it to the Laphroaig, I'd say that one is more salt while this one is more pepper. Really strong nose, too. Very citrusy. I've only had one glass, and based on the other couple bottles it usually takes me a couple to really seperate the flavors, but so far, so good.

Next vacation:

http://www.drynoch.demon.co.uk/images/skye/skye_04_s.JPG

Nicesave39

February 13th, 2009, 03:21 PM

Just wondering who drinks it and what your favorites are.

A few I like (though I still have many to sample):

Highland Park 12 yr
Macallan 12 yr (or more years if I can get it)
Glenmorangie (port wood)
Balvenie (10 yr reserve or 12 yr doublewood)

While dusting out my liquor cabinet the other day, I discovered I had an unopened bottle of that 12yr old McCallan Scotch. Two diet cokes & scotch later and I have a newfound appreciation for this brand of scotch whiskey. And a partially dusted liquor cabinet. Because I do drink whiskey, I think my next goal is to buy several varieties and figure out which one is my favorite. It's good to have goals, I reckon.

xcheck

June 17th, 2009, 09:41 AM

This thread had to be restarted; especially since my scotch knowledge and drinking has blown up dramatically (the new personal favorite is Caol Ila 25; excellent dram). After reviewing the different tastes everyone prefers on this thread, I can't believe I didn't push this earlier. I've been dramming with some folks in the LA Scotch Club. And we have been enjoying some great stuff.

Some recent notables include: Stronachie 31, Laphroig 30, Bruichladdich Octomore, Ardbeg Supernova, Glenfarclas 43 Old Malt Cask, and slew of rare and hard-to-find drams. Additionally, the club also arranges for a 14 x 14 arrangement, in which you can buy 50 mL bottles of 14 different scotches. It gives you the opportunity to sample different drams without breaking the bank.

Check it out at lascotchclub.com. We usually have meetings once a month, and for about $20, you can sample from 6 different bottles. The locations vary from members' homes to restaurants in the LA area (sometimes in OC).

Shoot me a PM if you're curious and check out the website.

Mr. Irreverent

June 17th, 2009, 11:55 AM

I just had some Johnny Walker Blue Label. Best damn blended scotch I've ever had.

lunchbox

June 17th, 2009, 12:18 PM

I just had some Johnny Walker Blue Label. Best damn blended scotch I've ever had.

i hear that's very good, but for the money it costs, i'd rather buy a single malt.

too bad i can't check out xcheck's la scotch club. i gave up scotch and hard liquor when i found out there was a mini box in me. :(

Mr. Irreverent

June 17th, 2009, 03:48 PM

i hear that's very good, but for the money it costs, i'd rather buy a single malt.

too bad i can't check out xcheck's la scotch club. i gave up scotch and hard liquor when i found out there was a mini box in me. :(

My roomate bought the bottle at the duty free shop, so I'll be having more of it soon. Don't worry so much about the Blue Label being a blend, it's easily better than half of the single malts I've had. Trust me.

lunchbox

June 17th, 2009, 03:53 PM

My roomate bought the bottle at the duty free shop, so I'll be having more of it soon. Don't worry so much about the Blue Label being a blend, it's easily better than half of the single malts I've had. Trust me.

i figured as much. :)
and i don't doubt you at all. i've heard nothing but good things about it although the people i know who've tried it would still save their money for their favorite single malts.

after all the violently sick episodes i've had with blends, i've also developed an aversion towards the phrase "blended scotch". (despite how good i hear johnny blue is). lol. don't worry, i'd be inclined to try it once i'm fit to... just not likely to buy a whole bottle.

Mr. Irreverent

June 17th, 2009, 03:58 PM

i figured as much. :)
and i don't doubt you at all. i've heard nothing but good things about it although the people i know who've tried it would still save their money for their favorite single malts.

after all the violently sick episodes i've had with blends, i've also developed an aversion towards the phrase "blended scotch". (despite how good i hear johnny blue is). lol. don't worry, i'd be inclined to try it once i'm fit to... just not likely to buy a whole bottle.

I totally understand your position. Fortunately for me, me and this blended whiskey are becoming good friends.

(I'm going upstairs for a sifter glass right now)
:yahoo:

xcheck

June 18th, 2009, 07:56 AM

Hats off to Johnny Blue. If you're going to drink a blend, it's the way to go.

But for that money (heck for half of the price of Johnny Blue) there are some good 15-21 year single malts and some interesting independent bottlings that have a much more complex flavor profile.

Hope you enjoyed the Blue Mr. I.

Fisch

June 18th, 2009, 12:18 PM

I got my JW Blue from BevMo for $160 awhile ago, the best price around that I could find, without looking too hard. Everywhere else was closer to $200.

xcheck

July 11th, 2009, 03:31 PM

Hey there fellow Scotchers. I had mentioned in a previous post that I had been dramming with some locals in the LA Scotch Club. Well, we have a meeting set for Friday July 17 in Sherman Oaks. Check out the page at: The Los Angeles Scotch Club (http://www.lascotchclub.com/meetings_history/)

It looks like the selections are all across the board with a super peaty whisky, a young Macallan, a couple well-aged Cadenheads bottlings and (what looks to be) a interesting Springbank. So we've got peaty, Speyside and Lowland covered.

Price is only $20 if you reserve in advance. Check out the site or PM me for more details. Hope to see you there.

Mr. Irreverent

July 11th, 2009, 03:48 PM

lunchbox

July 11th, 2009, 06:04 PM

would it look bad if a 7 mo.s pregnant woman showed up at this thing?

(i keed, i keed) :cbgb:

xcheck

July 20th, 2009, 12:56 PM

So, I tasted one this weekend that I have to share. Amongst all the single malt scotches was a single malt from Sweden. Yep, Sweden. I guess they're good for more than just producing hockey talent and bikini teams. The bottling is called Mackmyra, is aged for only one year, and is bottled at 57%. It had a very complex aroma and flavor profile: vanilla and hints of various floral elements on the nose. The taste up front was woody and floral with hints of vanilla transitioning to a good spice and heat on the mid palate and finish. The finish seemed to last a long time ultimately transitioning to a nice minty spice (but not "Scope"-ish).

Unfortunately, this one is not available in U.S., but if you can find it, its worth your consideration.

lunchbox

August 12th, 2009, 05:11 PM

just bought this for the husband's wedding anniversary gift.
http://www.thegreenwellystop.co.uk/whiskyshop/images/uploads/glenmorangie18-extremelyrare.jpg

i was going to get the glenlivet 21 since i know he likes it and it comes in a wooden box--the traditional gift for 5 years, but hi times was out of it. figured i'd give him something different and paper still comes from trees like wood does... lol.
now, hopefully, he'll stop drinking the macallan cask strength that i got for my birthday but have been unable to drink.

xcheck

August 14th, 2009, 10:48 AM

DMAN3474

December 17th, 2009, 06:05 PM

bump, cuz goallum brought this thread up in another thread.

I am still learning about the single malts and the links in this thread have helped, so thanks.

lunchbox

December 17th, 2009, 06:28 PM

Looks good. Once you're able, let us know how it tastes. On the Glenmorangie note, I'll be tasting the Glenmorangie Signet on Sunday. Its supposed to be excellent. Apparently Glenmorangie used a "chocolate malt" to make the Signet; note that it is not chocolate flavoring, but a I believe a roasting process that darkens the barley. We'll see how it tastes.

And happy anniversary.

haha. i was too lazy & busy to look this thread up. (thanks for the bump.)

it was sooo good & all done now! i hadn't had scotch in almost 8 mo.s... so i lost my tolerance for the bold flavors. since the more aged ones and cask strengths are a bit harsh on my palate, i got the glenlivet 18 for husband's xmas gift and we usually share so it'll break me back into the swing of things. i usually take my scotch neat, but i've still got that cask strength macallan and need to drop an ice cube into it until i get used to scotch again.

how was the signet?

xcheck

December 24th, 2009, 10:45 AM

Signet is overhyped. Its good, unusual cocoa and coffee flavors indicative of a well-rounded stout (think Guiness). The chocolate malting brings very similar flavors to stout because the barley is malted in a similar way to hops in making the stout.

In more interesting tasting notes, the club just met for a holiday tasting that included a Tormore 12 (Gordon & MacPhails), a Glenturret with a Rioja finish, and a Talisker 25. Tormore was really good with a long spicy finish. The Talisker was so unbelievably awesome; aromas of wood, vanilla, and peat smoke; taste notes include a medicinal iodine-typical of Isalys, a delicate peat, salty sea air, and citrus elements of lemon and grapefruit. The finish turned to a dry grassiness and hay with underlying salty sea air. It was great to get a taste without having to shell out the $200+ for the entire bottle.

lunchbox

December 25th, 2009, 05:49 PM

Thanks for the update. Sounds like an interesting & fun tasting. Talisker is my favorite, I've only had the 18 year and (I think) 10 year bottles so it's nice to hear about the older ones.

sonnyboy11

January 1st, 2010, 11:26 AM

Pagliacci

February 7th, 2010, 03:33 AM

Recently bought:
http://s3.amazonaws.com/asl_db5e2623e84bbb7eacc599465ee904ab/resources/images/media/484_4003_The_Glenlivet_15_Year_Old_French_Oak_Rese rve_trade__5227aa4eb72c_zoom.jpg

Delicate, delicious and not very complicated. Great starting point for beginners and an absolute pleasure for those in the midst of a scotch adventure.

Btw, the Macallan 18 yo Fine Oak is the bomb in case anyone forgot.

Pagliacci

February 7th, 2010, 03:38 AM

Now that I'm here anyone have any good whiskey reference material? For my last birthday I got a signed copy of :Amazon.com: Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2010 (9780955472947): Jim Murray: Books

It's not a bad little book but it's definitely intended for advanced scotch drinkers and/or travelers.

EDIT: I guess this book is a good starting point based on the reviews.
http://www.amazon.com/Instant-Experts-Guide-Single-Scotch/dp/0977199118/ref=pd_sim_b_4

xcheck

February 8th, 2010, 01:48 PM

My oldest brother and I have established a tradition over the last 4 Christmas' or so where we try to out do each other on scotch as a gift to one another. He always wins but that bastard makes more $ than I do! Anyways, this year he gave me what I think is my favorite scotch ever

http://bendspiritclub.com/images/0010000000597_XL.JPG

It's an expertly crafted, smooth single malt from Islay. Very peety as you would expect from Islay but not "medicinely" so as is usually the complaint from something like Laphroaig.

Just tried the Lag 21. Its discontinued. Very simple and sweet up front with an explosive mid palate and finish. Very spicy. I added a touch of water because it was bottled at cask strength (about 53%), and all the spice and explosiveness gave way to subtle peat, smoked wood, and charcoal. For the price of the Lag 21, I'm going with the Talisker 25 instead; especially since I got a Lag 26 bottled under the label "Classic of Islay" for only $90 (good stuff).

Something for you scotchers to consider: LA Scotch Club will be having a meeting in Sherman Oaks on 2/27. Cost is only $20-$25 for drinking from 6 different bottles. PM me if you're interested.

lunchbox

February 11th, 2010, 07:59 PM

damn, i'd love to go to that LA scotch club meeting but i won't be able to.

i picked this up for husband's valentine's day gift:

http://www.whisky-distilleries.info/Images/Highland-Park-15.jpg

Stormy2213

February 12th, 2010, 06:09 PM

xcheck

February 16th, 2010, 01:24 PM

damn, i'd love to go to that LA scotch club meeting but i won't be able to.

i picked this up for husband's valentine's day gift:

http://www.whisky-distilleries.info/Images/Highland-Park-15.jpg

Alcoholics go to meetings. Those who consider it a problem choose AA. Those who don't go to the LA Scotch Club. We'll get you to a meeting sooner or later.

That 15 is super good and a great value purchase. Echo Stormy's comment: your husband is a lucky man.

lunchbox

March 8th, 2010, 10:17 PM

Alcoholics go to meetings. Those who consider it a problem choose AA. Those who don't go to the LA Scotch Club. We'll get you to a meeting sooner or later.

That 15 is super good and a great value purchase. Echo Stormy's comment: your husband is a lucky man.

Thanks, it's a good find for sure. I'm definitely up for a scotch meeting some day. When my little one's older and I can leave her with the parents for a day...

I just got this for the in-laws as a thank you gift:
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_Co36UnkYNFY/SalYSp5shYI/AAAAAAAAA0E/6tCjA1nID7E/s320/Glenmorangie+10+Year.jpg

lunchbox

March 15th, 2010, 04:56 PM

^^^that is an excellent scotch. It was a hit with sister-in-law, her husband and my husband. Very smooth when served neat and can be interchangeable with the glenlivet as far as everyday drinking (night cap!) goes. I like to save the bolder ones such as talisker for occasions.

navinjohnson

May 25th, 2010, 01:20 PM

Has anyone tried Sheep Dip Scotch from Bevmo? Don't know too much about it, but it was reasonably priced and it rocked!

xcheck

May 29th, 2010, 03:41 PM

Hey people,

I've got a friend that came into a large lot of single malts, bourbons, and ryes (there are also a few other things, but limited) that he is looking to sell. Included is a healthy amount of Lag 16's, a few Highland Parks, Glenmorangie Nectar d'Or, Serendipity, lots of different Ardbegs, Bowmores, Caol Ilas, and Macallans (original bottlings and independent bottlers). The prices are darn good; much less than what you would pay at any store.

PM if you are interested.

lunchbox

July 18th, 2010, 11:32 AM

xcheck

July 20th, 2010, 10:56 AM

there's a scotch hunter app for the iPhone that I just discovered yesterday. it has ratings, descriptions, a favorites function for yourself and some kind of slot machine game. their website that mr. I linked to back in the day has proven to be invaluable.

I found the app yesterday while trying to use the site as a reference for choosing a new bottle as a gift for the in-laws again. I decided upon this:
http://www.thewhiskyexchange.com/ProductImage.aspx?pc=BALOB.12YO&w=150

will report on my opinion when we return from our visit to their place.
I've tried the balvenie sherry oak, thanks to mr. I. that, as with all cask strength single malts, was quite bold and not really my style. hoping for a better appreciation of the balvenie with something that's younger and weaker. :grin:

Balvenie makes a great gift. Universally appreciated whisky. I don't recall my tasting notes on this one when the Balvenie reps were presenting their new lines of whisky back around April. Let us know how it is.

If you want to try something amazing, their new 17 year Madeira is f-ing fantastic. A bit pricey (around $115), but it is a really really really good bottle.

Fisch

July 30th, 2010, 02:49 AM

Haven't been drinking Scotch as much, but the last bottle I got a couple of months ago was the Auchentoshan 21yr. It's a nice break from my regular Macallan bottles or JW Blue.

Big Red

July 30th, 2010, 10:18 PM

so what's a good scotch to start off with so that I broaden my horizons beyond a blend like Johnny Walker? preferably something that's not too expensive

lunchbox

July 30th, 2010, 10:44 PM

so what's a good scotch to start off with so that I broaden my horizons beyond a blend like Johnny Walker? preferably something that's not too expensive

glenlivet 12 yr. smooth, not too overwhelming. you can even try it at a bar first as any bar that carries single malts should have this one. or get a bottle at hi times for $24.

Fisch

July 30th, 2010, 11:46 PM

glenlivet 12 yr. smooth, not too overwhelming. you can even try it at a bar first as any bar that carries single malts should have this one. or get a bottle at hi times for $24.

Oban is nice too but 3x as much

lunchbox

July 31st, 2010, 12:06 AM

Oban is nice too but 3x as much

that's why I didn't mention it. otherwise, I could've named a bunch of others I've got sitting on my counter. ;)

btw, sipping on that balvenie 12 that I got for my sister in law and it's divine! it costs $38 at hi times. FYI nayagamj, I never buy scotch at bevmo. the salespeople there don't know crap and the bottles are marked up ridiculously.

Big Red

July 31st, 2010, 06:25 AM

interesting. thanks for the advice

shadowalk

August 2nd, 2010, 01:24 PM

Tony Sachs: Spirits Tastings From High-End To High-Tech, Courtesy Of Glenfiddich And Wild Turkey (http://www.huffingtonpost.com/tony-sachs/spirits-tastings-from-hig_b_667018.html)

How does 50yo Glenfiddich sound?

gescom

August 2nd, 2010, 04:13 PM

xcheck

August 3rd, 2010, 09:13 AM

so what's a good scotch to start off with so that I broaden my horizons beyond a blend like Johnny Walker? preferably something that's not too expensive

Balvenie 12; Highland Park 12; if you like that, move on to something peated like a Laphroig 10, Bowmore 12, or Caol Ila.

And of course if you want to mortgage a house or trade in a car, go ahead and buy that Glenfiddich 50.

OTTo VoN BLoTTo

August 18th, 2010, 12:29 PM

Haven't dipped into my single malts much lately, but hit this a few times last night:

http://www.aspiringgentleman.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/ardbeg-10-year.jpg

I'd forgotten how good it was. DAMMMN.

Sure, many whiskeys get their beautiful deep hues from caramel coloring, but in this case how such a thick, oily, richly flavored, and massively peaty mother****er can be almost totally clear in color boggles the mind.

shadowalk

August 18th, 2010, 01:19 PM

Balvenie 12 is under 35.00 at trader Joes, well worth it....

lunchbox

August 19th, 2010, 03:14 AM

Sure, many whiskeys get their beautiful deep hues from caramel coloring, but in this case how such a thick, oily, richly flavored, and massively peaty mother****er can be almost totally clear in color boggles the mind.

interesting. thanks for the description. I'll keep it in mind if I ever veer towards the peaty single malts.

Balvenie 12 is under 35.00 at trader Joes, well worth it....

that is a great price. I forgot TJ's can be a good shopping option. I got some veuve clicquot champagne there for a decent price at the last minute this weekend because I was too lazy to drive myself over to hi times.

xcheck

October 15th, 2010, 01:21 PM

Bump. Gotta keep this thread in action.

Did anybody else get a chance to attend Whisky Live at the Beverly Wilshire on Wed.? I finally recovered.

Some of the highlights for me included the Tomatin 25, which I enjoyed much more than the 40 year old they were pouring. A lot folks enjoyed the 40. Laphroig 25 is awesome as always.

The Yamazaki 18 is still good, and it was good to see Suntory promote the Hibiki line, a blended whiskey. The Japanese know what their doing.

Dalmore was pouring their usual stuff, but their new 18 year old is f-ing ridiculously good.

I was a little disappointed that Aberlour did not bring several batches of Abunadh to sample side-by-side. They presented batch 30, which pretty much tastes like a heavily sherried whisky. Good, but not as good as some other batches.

The Scotts table was a lot of fun. Scotts was the only indpendent bottler present. They had several different whiskies from different regions, and not not young stuff either. I did not take notes, but my fuzzy memory recalls that most of the whiskies were over 20 years old including a 45 year North of Scotland single grain (not as good as the 41 that I had several years back).

All in all, the things that stand out the most for were the Tomatin 25, the geeky friends I have who brought their own scotch to a massive whisky event (a 36 year old something er other; can't recall but my tastebuds were shot by then anyway), and laughing at the "Julia Roberts" style hookers turning tricks for drunk businessmen.

This is a must attend event for any whisky fan.

DMAN3474

February 2nd, 2011, 06:12 PM

BUMP

Has anyone had anything good lately?

Ive been drinking the Balvenie 12 signature but apparently that was just a one year deal, have to move on to something else soon...

orpheus

February 2nd, 2011, 06:16 PM

xcheck

February 14th, 2011, 10:55 AM

BUMP

Has anyone had anything good lately?

Ive been drinking the Balvenie 12 signature but apparently that was just a one year deal, have to move on to something else soon...

Celebrated the Packers Superbowl victory with a hearty glass of some discontinued, highly sought after, rare and wonderful Lagavulin 21.

Fisch

February 28th, 2011, 01:48 AM

Picked up a couple single-malt bottles...adding to the collection. I'm slowly trying to get at least one distillery from each of the major scotch producing regions.

Picked up an Oban 14yr (Highland Region)
Picked up a Port Charlotte 6yr: PC6 (Islay Region)

Picked up my casual blended sipper, JW Black 12yr

Puckrobber

March 17th, 2011, 03:50 PM

xcheck

March 23rd, 2011, 01:59 PM

Tasted a whole bunch of Arran Malts the other day courtesy of the Isle of Arran and its brand ambassador. 10 year is very good. Its a young distellery; started up formally around 1995, but according to the brand ambassador was probably producing whisky illegally for over a hundred years like most distilleries in Scotland. The other Arran Malt we had that I enjoyed thoroughly was the Grand Cru Champagne finish. Arran does a lot with these finishes, but apparently they will be abandoning it in favor of establishing some standard brands: 10 year, 14 year and soon an 18 year. Can't wait to taste that 18 year. It should be coming around 2013/2014.

Also got to taste a Signatory Vintage Port Ellen 1982 26 year old over the weekend. It nosed white pepper, red tree fruit, syrup and cola. The taste was an assortment of spices. Its not heavily peated; typical of Port Ellens. Frankly, not the best Port Ellen I've had but its good to try especially since its a discontinued distillery.

Anybody else had anything good lately?

OTTo VoN BLoTTo

April 18th, 2011, 05:34 PM

Received a bottle of this last weekend as a (VERY--like, 6 months) late birthday gift:

http://www.specialistwhisky.com/images/uploads/balvenie-single-barrel-15year-70cl.jpg

Holy FREAKING crap.... the deliciousness factor on this thing is off the charts. Trying to sip other bottles and not drain it in a week, but it's so honeyed sweet, complex, superbly balanced and straight-up stupid yummy that it's hard to stop.

The reviews--professional and amateur--sound like they are describing different Whisky altogether. Which probably makes sense for a "single cask" bottling, as each batch would be unique to some extent. Even at WhiskyMag Michael Jackson scored it 80, while Jim Murray went 95. I'm with Mr. Murray. Absolutely LOVE it.

Fisch

April 18th, 2011, 05:48 PM

I got a bottle of Highland Park 12yr

Fisch

April 19th, 2011, 02:27 AM

Figured I'd bump this up a bit. Trying to broaden my horizons in the scotch department and found this thread yesterday. Since today is St. Patrick's Day, I wanted to get a single malt bottle and have a bit during the Kings game tonight.

Lots of choices at my small state-owned liquor store. Everything from Bowmore ($30) to Macallan ($180). Even noticed the J.W. Blue was going for $213.00 here!

Settled on one that hasn't been mentioned, but looked interesting. Has anybody tried Speyburn? It's a 10 year old single malt that was on sale for $27.00 for 750ml. Thought someone might have had it before.

JW Blue is $179 at BevMo

Received a bottle of this last weekend as a (VERY--like, 6 months) late birthday gift:

http://www.specialistwhisky.com/images/uploads/balvenie-single-barrel-15year-70cl.jpg

Holy FREAKING crap.... the deliciousness factor on this thing is off the charts. Trying to sip other bottles and not drain it in a week, but it's so honeyed sweet, complex, superbly balanced and straight-up stupid yummy that it's hard to stop.

The reviews--professional and amateur--sound like they are describing different Whisky altogether. Which probably makes sense for a "single cask" bottling, as each batch would be unique to some extent. Even at WhiskyMag Michael Jackson scored it 80, while Jim Murray went 95. I'm with Mr. Murray. Absolutely LOVE it.

Nice, not that expensive too. I've had the 12yr Double Wood and the 21yr Portwood...might as well try a bottle of the 15yr Single Barrel. :)

OTTo VoN BLoTTo

April 19th, 2011, 12:47 PM

JW Blue is $179 at BevMo

Nice, not that expensive too. I've had the 12yr Double Wood and the 21yr Portwood...might as well try a bottle of the 15yr Single Barrel. :)

Do dat! From everything read there is plenty of bottle variation, so hope you like yours.

Whoa... it's been years (and I was wasted at that point of the evening) but remember clearly the 21yr PortWood blowing my mind into itty bitty pieces. Love to try it again someday.

Fisch

April 19th, 2011, 01:39 PM

Do dat! From everything read there is plenty of bottle variation, so hope you like yours.

Whoa... it's been years (and I was wasted at that point of the evening) but remember clearly the 21yr PortWood blowing my mind into itty bitty pieces. Love to try it again someday.

I gave it to my friend for his birthday but of course was able to have a few glasses of it. :russian:

xcheck

April 24th, 2011, 09:41 PM

Just thought I'd share what my coffee table looked like while watching Game 5 last night with like-minded whisky geeks.

lunchbox

April 25th, 2011, 12:33 AM

holy s***, :38smile:

xcheck

May 2nd, 2011, 10:19 AM

I heard our boys killed Bin Laden, and I had to celebrate by opening up this bad boy. Damn that was nice.

gescom

May 2nd, 2011, 10:47 AM

i needed a whisky (and fast!) to break in the new digs, so i decided to try...

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_Zx29R1mstH8/SwuDK4_EijI/AAAAAAAAAHg/RCj8N4Pt37U/s1600/macallan-10yo-fine-oak.jpg

... because i was curious.

a LOT of people feel it's too astringent and oaky. i though it was a little hot, but there's STILL that sweet something that's unique to all Macallans that i still enjoy.

rumor is, this particular gets better after a while and that it's a good lead-in if you're gonna go full battle rattle on the evening... i'd probably follow this with some smoke like Talisker or something.

i think some of you f***ers and your Islay malts are CA-RAYZEE!

bodycheck

May 3rd, 2011, 09:19 AM

Whats behind my bar as far as scotches go currently...

The Macallan - Love it.
Talisker - BLECH - tastes like drinking a glass of chloroform
Glenmorangie - mmmmm teh delish
Achentoshen(sp) - tastes like scotch oughta taste...
Glen Fiddich - classic , tasty, aromatic...

Pagliacci

May 3rd, 2011, 09:42 AM

http://www.instructables.com/image/F749MQ3FSK1E7HF/scotch-tape.jpg

xcheck

May 3rd, 2011, 01:16 PM

http://www.instructables.com/image/F749MQ3FSK1E7HF/scotch-tape.jpg

Tried it. There is virtually no nose. Up front its very thin turning to a musty, linty and slightly medicinal/iodine taste in the mid palate. The finish is bone dry and grassy and lasts forever.

Whats behind my bar as far as scotches go currently...

The Macallan - Love it.
Talisker - BLECH - tastes like drinking a glass of chloroform
Glenmorangie - mmmmm teh delish
Achentoshen(sp) - tastes like scotch oughta taste...
Glen Fiddich - classic , tasty, aromatic...

Age statements help. I sure as heck hope that you are not hating on Talisker 25.

i think some of you f***ers and your Islay malts are CA-RAYZEE!

If its a war with the Peatniks you want? Its a war you'll get. Mmmmm... peat.... yummmmm.

lunchbox

May 3rd, 2011, 04:52 PM

i think some of you f***ers and your Islay malts are CA-RAYZEE!

ya, i usually go for whisky of the other regions and can't get behind the islay malts either.

Whats behind my bar as far as scotches go currently...

The Macallan - Love it.
Talisker - BLECH - tastes like drinking a glass of chloroform
Glenmorangie - mmmmm teh delish
Achentoshen(sp) - tastes like scotch oughta taste...
Glen Fiddich - classic , tasty, aromatic...

i've tried all but the auchentoshan because the lowlands are another i haven't really developed much interest in. i'd rank them, in general, as such:

glenmorangie > talisker > macallan > glenfiddich. but that's just my personal taste. i won't turn any of those down, that's for sure.
oh and i actually prefer the younger taliskers to the 18, which is the oldest one i've had. i find them to be more gentle, yet still smoky and peppery.

http://www.instructables.com/image/F749MQ3FSK1E7HF/scotch-tape.jpg

this character introduced me to scotch! :69smile:
time flies. cheers, monsieur sessy pantalones!

Fisch

May 5th, 2011, 06:43 AM

I heard our boys killed Bin Laden, and I had to celebrate by opening up this bad boy. Damn that was nice.

yikes, that's a pricey bottle...serious business there.

Fisch

May 5th, 2011, 06:46 AM

I hit bevmo every couple of weeks to restock my Bailey's Irish Cream and I have to keep myself from grabbing another bottle of scotch every trip. lol, those trips can get expensive.

I try and limit a new bottle to every couple of months.

xcheck

May 5th, 2011, 09:08 AM

yikes, that's a pricey bottle...serious business there.

Serious business for a serious celebration.

Then again, its relatively nothing compared to some friends of mine that shared a Port Ellen 4th Edition upon learning the news that Bin Laden was killed.

Crazy_Ivan

May 5th, 2011, 09:28 AM

My in laws live about 10 mins from Talisker distillery so I took a trip down there for a distillery tour, easily one of the most scenic distilleries in Scotland.

Take a look at that view.

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_dl6Szm-ZAuk/TMh8QxNpOTI/AAAAAAAAFlU/REN6Hq0N2Z4/s1600/Cuillins.jpg

I then took a trip to the Old Inn pub near the distillery and had another sneaky scotch there too.

http://s0.geograph.org.uk/geophotos/01/10/35/1103513_53d58f43.jpg

Crazy_Ivan

May 5th, 2011, 10:04 AM

A friend bought this for me and I have since bought a bottle to stock in my restaurant.

http://www.thewhiskyexchange.com/ProductImage.aspx?pc=CGMOB.1993V1&w=540

A very nice smooth easy to drink whisky.

xcheck

May 13th, 2011, 12:39 PM

Just visited a friend who spent about a week in Scotland. Very picturesque country. He even brought back either a similar or that same bottle of Cragganmore. We didn't get around to sampling it though in favor of a Glendronach, Glenmorangie, Oban, Aberlour, Ardbeg Supernova, Chichibu (yeah Japanese, go figure), Lag, and Society Laphroig (and I also ennjoyed my new Rosebank Flora & Fauna and Signatory Royal Lochnagar). All of the scotches were single barrell bottlings which are not sold outside GB, and some are only available at the distillery just like that Cragganmore. If you're going to get some whisky in Scotland its nice to know its something you can't buy here in the states.

xcheck

May 21st, 2011, 08:57 PM

i've tried all but the auchentoshan because the lowlands are another i haven't really developed much interest in.

Lowlands should not be discounted. Yes they are few in numbers, but tend to be some of the more interesting whiskies because of it. Very floral and delicate. I am enjoying a Rosebank 12 now, and it is f'in fantastic (and I'm drunk as a skunk).

Give Lowlands a try. Start with a Rosebank or Littlemill. Littlemill is considered in my circles to be an "unscotchy" scotch. It has such unique flavor characteristics typical of melon; canteloupe, watermelon, honeydew, etc. Really good stuff, and not terribly expensive either.

Slainte!

lunchbox

May 21st, 2011, 11:11 PM

Lowlands should not be discounted. Yes they are few in numbers, but tend to be some of the more interesting whiskies because of it. Very floral and delicate. I am enjoying a Rosebank 12 now, and it is f'in fantastic (and I'm drunk as a skunk).

Give Lowlands a try. Start with a Rosebank or Littlemill. Littlemill is considered in my circles to be an "unscotchy" scotch. It has such unique flavor characteristics typical of melon; canteloupe, watermelon, honeydew, etc. Really good stuff, and not terribly expensive either.

Slainte!

thanks, we're running low (just a few drams of highland park left) so that might just be what i include in my husband's father's day gifts.

Fisch

May 22nd, 2011, 07:00 PM

Picked up a bottle each of
Isle of Jura 16yr
Caol Ila 12yr

xcheck

May 30th, 2011, 07:24 PM

thanks, we're running low (just a few drams of highland park left) so that might just be what i include in my husband's father's day gifts.

While technically not a Lowland, Springbank is sometimes grouped into the Lowlands. It really is a Campbeltown, but there are so few of each they sort've merged the two reagions. I just had a bunch of Springbanks with the Scotch Club including a glorious 22 year; barrelled 1972, bottled 1995. Oh my stars that was good stuff.

gescom

May 30th, 2011, 07:32 PM

so get THIS... my brother in law is from a town called Stornoway. it's on the Isle of Lewis, 'bout as high as Highland can be, save for Orkney.

he was running a club there before he moved back to the States, and was just recently telling me how the proprietor of the place had bought a rather large amount of single malt from a nearby distillery (not sure if it was an Islands or Highlands) that runs a retail of a "hundred quid" easily... and that it was basically sitting there collecting dust... and was likely going to continue to do so.

yeah, i'm in the process of attempting to cajole him into getting some of that shipped here... i even told him i'd pay the tax.

xcheck

May 30th, 2011, 07:34 PM

xcheck

May 30th, 2011, 07:37 PM

lunchbox

May 30th, 2011, 11:09 PM

On a whole other note, this is not to be missed:

The Los Angeles Scotch Club (http://www.lascotchclub.com/peatin/)

This is not a for-profit group. I've tried drumming up some interest in the Scotch Club on this board in the past to a lukewarm response. This is the third time we are doing the Peatin Meatin. Its going to be the best one yet. And this year, we've got Scotch distilleries sponsoring the event (meaning they'll be brining their Scotch for us to enjoy!!!!).

Slainte!

sorry about that, sir. i would've jumped on that if i hadn't gotten pregnant close to the time you mentioned it and if i lived closer. nowadays, my scotch drinking usually occurs after i tuck her in and it's time for me to unwind. maybe when she's bigger...

:cheers:

lunchbox

June 13th, 2011, 12:15 AM

got a littlemill 16 yr. it better be good... haha, jk. we'll see. waiting until next weekend before we try it out.

Fisch

June 21st, 2011, 09:05 PM

Picked up...
Tomatin 18yr (Highland Region)
Tomintoul 16yr (Speyside Region)

xcheck

June 22nd, 2011, 05:44 PM

So, let's hear about some of these new finds... Littlemill? Tomatin (pretty good stuff)? Tomintoul (questionable material there, but you gotta try everything)?

My new ones are a Signatory Vintage bottled for Binnys Royal Lochnagar, which is excellent. Got a Rosebank Flora & Fauna which needs some time to open up; very alcoholly right now. I also got an Elements of Islay Lagavulin, which, as you might expect, is heavily peated and ultra aggressive. My most recent pride and joy is a Gordon & MacPhails Dallas Dhu 22. Needs some time to open up, but when it does, it should be beyond excellent.

xcheck

August 10th, 2011, 02:54 PM

Bump.

Spent last night with friends drinking a variety of Arran (almost 20). Isle of Arran is a rather new distillery located on (ready for this) the Isle of Arran. As a young distillery, they do not have the volume to release standard 8 year, 10 year, 12 year whiskies. So what they did was release a variety of whiskies with different finishes; that is, age the whisky and then put in a unique cask for a couple of months to impart a unique taste. Many of these were quite successful. The Amarone finish is quite good as well as the Bourdeax and Champagne finishes. On top of all the unique finishes, they are starting to release single barrel bottles at cask strength which are pretty good too. These are pretty reasonably priced too.

Anybody else tasted Arran? Good, bad, indifferent?

lunchbox

August 11th, 2011, 01:11 AM

nope, haven't tried it. i did get around to trying the littlemill. good rec, thanks! i usually only have it when i have some time to just relax and sip and those are few and far between lately so that's what took me so long to reply.
got this one, fyi and it was tassssssty.

http://thedailysnark.files.wordpress.com/2009/04/littlemill19901.jpg?w=143

DMAN3474

August 22nd, 2011, 03:42 PM

This is where you can taste an incredible range of whiskies from Scotland to Kentucky, mingle with the producers and distillers, independent bottlers and brand ambassadors and meet the stars of the industry.The sheer range of whisky on show will challenge even the most determined taster; everything from old favourites to unusual finishes and rare bottlings. The very best whiskies of the world all under one roof.
Los Angeles 2011 - Whisky Live - World Whisk(e)y Tasting and Sampling Shows (http://www.whiskylive.com/usa/32/los-angeles-2011)

xcheck

August 27th, 2011, 02:28 PM

Los Angeles 2011 - Whisky Live - World Whisk(e)y Tasting and Sampling Shows (http://www.whiskylive.com/usa/32/los-angeles-2011)

Went last year. Bring a designated driver. Generally there is a discounted entry fee through Goldstar.

DMAN3474

August 31st, 2011, 02:33 PM

Any good scotch/whisky bars around? 7Grand downtown is supposed to have a good selection, anywhere else?

xcheck

September 1st, 2011, 08:23 AM

Any good scotch/whisky bars around? 7Grand downtown is supposed to have a good selection, anywhere else?

Daily Pint; best in LA, maybe best in California, maybe best in the country. It has a very large Scotch whisky menu.

xcheck

October 14th, 2011, 11:17 AM

Went last year. Bring a designated driver. Generally there is a discounted entry fee through Goldstar.

I just got word of a couple of discounts on Whisky Live being offered in conjunction with the LA Scotch Club. The first is a reduced price from $135 to $99 with the offer code "LASC99". This will give you a VIP ticket (early entrance) and admission to a master class being put on by a rep for Chieftans (a pretty good independent bottler that is rapidly expanding; they will be presenting some interesting expressions of various distilleries including a Benrinnes 26 year). The other discount is a reduced price from $105 to $78.50, which provides for regular admission; use offer code "LASC".

This really is a dynamite event where you can expand on your whisky-loving experiences.

The discounts are available through the Whisky Live website at Los Angeles 2011 - Whisky Live - World Whisk(e)y Tasting and Sampling Shows (http://www.whiskylive.com/usa/32/los-angeles-2011).

shadowalk

October 28th, 2011, 06:16 PM

Enjoying a 15 yo Glenlivet French Oak Reserve and some Friday night hockey

xcheck

October 29th, 2011, 03:41 PM

Just had Doug Campell, Master Distiller for Tomatin, and their regional rep do a tasting at my place this past week. There's lots of good stuff. I remember fondly tasting their 30 year and 40 year last year. I preferred the 30 year. I was pleasantly surprised by the tasting. The 12 year is a fine pedestrian expression. The 15 year is a slight step up from that, but is different as it does not have a finish (whereas the 12 year is finished in a sherry cask). There is a really good value in the 18 year which sells for around $60. A very tasty whisky, and a good buy for that value. They also brought a new expression from the distillery called Decades. It is a mixture of different casks from the different decades in which Doug Campbell has worked at Tomatin. Its a bit more expensive (neighborhood of $100), but is a very good, warm whisky. Then they brought something amazingly special: a 28 year, single cask. Very few are available. It is selling for about $550 per bottle. Its pricing is probably based more on scarcity than taste, but it is really good stuff. We (meaning the scotch club) also brought a Douglas Laing "Old Malt Cask" expression of a Tomatin 40. It actually nosed of bubble gum. Really good stuff as well.

There are some good values with Tomatin. If you're looking for something new and different, you might want to consider it.
/Slainte

OTTo VoN BLoTTo

November 22nd, 2011, 01:34 PM

Was given a bottle of Macallan 12 for my birthday recently, and though the gesture is deeply appreciated I just don't like that Whiskey at all. Hadn't had it for some time and was shocked how terribly oak-dominated it was. In just one glass it was like someone beat me senseless upside the head with an oak plank, dragged me up and down the stairs (oak treads, go figure), then forced me to EAT that plank. It's got legions of loyal fans and to each his own. But man, not for me.

lunchbox

November 24th, 2011, 05:08 PM

not a fan of the macallan either! :)

sonnyboy11

November 25th, 2011, 12:36 PM

Not a fan of the Macallan either. But my brother is so I stay with that when I get my annual Xmas gift for him (we exchange good scotch each year). But then, who am I to talk? My personal fave region is the peety, smoke goodness emanating from Islay. I don't like the super-mediciney stuff like Laphroaig very much. But the better stuff from Islay has won me over.

Anyway, here is bro's gift for this year. Just got it last week from our friends at the venerable BevMo for around a c-note

https://www.weinquelle.com/artikel/Macallan_A_D_Rattray_19_Years_9499_e.html

lunchbox

November 25th, 2011, 12:56 PM

i'd say my favorite is glenmorangie or talisker. the former is our go to scotch because my husband doesn't like talisker quite as much as i do and we usually share the bottle. we've got a full bottle of glenmorangie right now and finishing up the littlemill which was recommended by xcheck. not bad!

xcheck

November 27th, 2011, 10:59 AM

xcheck

December 9th, 2011, 11:19 AM

So last night, a few friends and I were hosted to dinner and a tasting of Tullibardine (pronounced, TUH-li-bar-din) by Tullibardine's international sales manager and the local distributor. We tasted the Aged Oak, 1993, 1988, Sherry Wood Finish and Port Wood Finish. The general consensus is that all are solid whiskies. Even better, they are pretty reasonably priced. I very much enjoyed the Aged Oak and 1993. The Aged Oak is a new expression whereas the 1993 and 1988 are from old production casks (the distillery was mothballed, acquired by a French company, and reopened around 2003). The Aged Oak has a genteel quality to it that presents like a much longer aged whisky; sweet bourbon influences up front with a long spicy mid-palate and a finish that includes Tullibardine's signature oats and cereal taste.

This is good stuff, and should start appearing on shelves locally now or within the next few weeks. Apparently, they're US distribution has been limited because, as a small producer, they could not afford to bottle both 700mL bottles (which is the standard internationally, but apparently is illegal in the US) and 750mL lines. They are now distributing 750mL bottles for US production.

lunchbox

December 10th, 2011, 02:59 AM

geez, i like your job or friends or however it is that you are able to try such varied and fine whiskies.

bummer about the littlemill. my husband just finished it without my knowing that he snarfed the last little bit. (pretty sure he'd had a bad day though, that's usually his reward).

xcheck

December 12th, 2011, 10:17 AM

All it really is, is my association with the LA Scotch Club. Last night we tasted a Cadenheads Glendronach 25, Family Silver Glengassaugh 1973, Port Ellen 1974/1991 (that's 17 year old for those lacking math skills or a calculator), and a Port Charlotte 2001/2010 aged in Sherry Hogshead. All of these are hard to find (some were acquired at auction) and very expensive. We also polished off a bottle of Gordon & MacPhail's Glen Grant 21, which I heard is a very affordable bottle and tastes pretty darn good.

lunchbox

December 13th, 2011, 05:06 PM

a partner at my husband's firm knows a guy with a $3 million scotch collection... that he keeps behind bulletproof glass... wow:

meanwhile, my dad gave me a bottle of glenlivet 12.

OTTo VoN BLoTTo

December 14th, 2011, 02:56 AM

a partner at my husband's firm knows a guy with a $3 million scotch collection... that he keeps behind bulletproof glass... wow:

meanwhile, my dad gave me a bottle of glenlivet 12.

Hope it's an earthquake-proof showcase behind that glass--if such a thing exists. I'd worry more about that than some bent on revenge f***ed over ex-colleague and his thugs busting in to shoot up the goods. But then again we don't know this guy.......

I'll take a double Glenlivet, thanks. Still like it after all these years.

lunchbox

December 15th, 2011, 02:24 AM

Hope it's an earthquake-proof showcase behind that glass--if such a thing exists. I'd worry more about that than some bent on revenge f***ed over ex-colleague and his thugs busting in to shoot up the goods. But then again we don't know this guy.......

I'll take a double Glenlivet, thanks. Still like it after all these years.

i know, right?! i guess if you spend that much on liquor that you "collect", you might get a little paranoid......... lol.

definitely can't go wrong with the glenlivet. it's no frills, but my dad got it from someone from work (and honestly, i'm surprised because most of those guys like hennessy or crown royal if they're gonna drink hard liquor, johnny walker, if they go for scotch). my dad, himself, doesn't drink scotch and after it sitting there untouched the last couple visits, i bugged him about it and he said i could have it. haha. :D

Fisch

December 15th, 2011, 02:34 AM

My Panic Room might as well have some good eats and drinks in it...

sonnyboy11

January 1st, 2012, 08:12 PM

Mmmmm... Littlemill. Get it while you can because they shuttered the distillery, sold off the copper stills for scrap and turned the place into a museum.

Bevmo has been doing some some interesting bottlings with AD Ratray. I've had their Royal Lochnagar 14, Cragganmore 14 and Bowmore 20 (although this one might not be specially bottled for Bevmo). The Lochnagar is pretty good. The Bowmore is excellent. It looks like Bevmo is trying to compete with Binnys; a Chicago based store that has some marvelous bottlings through Signatory.

That AD Ratray Mac looks interesting because it is all Bourbon cask. No sherry.

A small post-holiday coinkadink.. my brother and I both just happened to get each the exact same gift this year- The 19 yrs old AD Ratray from Bevmo! We had a pretty good laugh over it. Great minds think alike, eh? Anyway, if you come across a bottle, expect a strong bourbon hit on open with a caramel note on the finish, oaky flavors all around. Very direct, insistent taste that doesn't reveal a lot of complexity over a couple glasses. It's top notch stuff.

xcheck

January 31st, 2012, 01:21 PM

Bump. So I had an interesting whisky drinking experience the other day. A friend poured me a dram, and without know what I was drinking, make some tasting notes and give it a grade. So I did. It was a good tasting dram; nothing spectacular. Nosed of some fruit and tasted very dry/spicy with a bone dry finish. An average whisky. Then my friend told me what I was drinking: Old Pulteney 21, the whisky that critic, Jim Murray listed as the best whisky of 2011.

My friend is putting research together for a blog entry. Apparently everybody who is tasting this is reviewing it as being rather average.

lunchbox

January 31st, 2012, 02:56 PM

January 31st, 2012, 03:28 PM

I had some cheap ass ($15) Trader Joe's Speyburn 10 last night. For some reason it was better yesterday than it was the past. But I would never recommend it or give it to someone. I just bought it on a whim a few months ago. The peat has a metallic taste to it.

xcheck

February 6th, 2012, 01:25 PM

i think its all subjective though. kind of like how i love talisker, but my husband thinks it's "meh". most people might find old pulteney to be average as you say, but i guess that critic's got a soft spot on his taste buds for it. it's why i don't really go by the recommendations of critics--there's the subjective factor and then sometimes they're just full of s***, haha.
your blind taste test reminds me of the one ABC did with grey goose. bunches of people swear it's awesome vodka, but when blind tested, it came out with underwhelming results. (i agree, it's just an average vodka).

Taste is purely subjective. The benefit to critics is that they generally have a great palate, and are able to describe flavor profiles so that you can get an idea of what the drink tastes like without taking a sip. The thing about critics in general is that they tend to be very pro-industry. After all, if their reviews do not have an impact on whatever they are reviewing, they are useless as a critic.

The thing about Jim Murray in the world of whisky is that he tends to be very supportive of distilleries that are "supportive" of him. I heard that one year he rated Ardbeg 10 the best whisky of the year. Coincidentally, he was working for Ardbeg at the time.

xcheck

February 14th, 2012, 03:23 PM

kind of like how i love talisker

Prepare to be jealous. I sat down to a Talisker blind vertical with some friends. We tasted the 30 yr., 20 yr. UK release, 20 yr. US release, Distiller's Ed., 57 North, 2004 25 yr., 2005 25 yr, 18 yr., 10 yr. and the 175th Anniversary. There is some very good stuff in there, and then there's some worth passing on. My fave was the 2005 25 yr. and the lowlight was the 10 yr.

xcheck

April 27th, 2012, 08:13 AM

Bump-been far too long since we rocked this thread.

Last night, my friends and I were hosted by the Balvenie reps who presented the 12 Year Doublewood, 15 Year Single Barrel, 14 Year Caribbean Cask, 21 Year Port Finish and the Tun 1401 Batch 3. For the money, the Doublewood is a great value. I heard its about $35 at Trader Joes, and is a very drinkable whisky. I didn't care much for the 14 and 15 year. The 21 was very tasty, but probably not worth the price (I don't know its price point).

The gem was the Tun. This bottle is not normally in their presentation, and at $250 per bottle you can see why. These bottles I believe are sold out. The concept behind the Tun 1401 is the Master Distiller vats 10 different barrels together in a tun (Tun (unit) - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tun_%28unit%29)), creating a very unique expression. On the nose, I got sweet tea, spice, cinnamon, marmalade/jam, tobacco, leather, mint/menthol, and little hint of "first aid kit". The taste was more difficult to peg, but had an explosively wonderful palate that included leather, heather, black licorice, bubble gum, black pepper and something I couldn't quite figure out. The finish was very long and basically, I got goose bumps when I drank it. The reps said that Balvenie is currently making Batch 6 of the Tun 1401 that will be distributed in the US only, and should be out some time in October of this year.

/slainte

Crazy_Ivan

May 4th, 2012, 06:12 AM

My new favourite....only tried this based on the award but it is truely very quaffable.

BBC News - Wick malt named world's best whisky (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-business-15423862)

http://news.bbcimg.co.uk/media/images/56242000/jpg/_56242054_pulteney2.jpg

A single malt distilled in one of Scotland's most remote distilleries has been named the world's best whisky by a leading expert.

Old Pulteney was crowned World Whisky of the Year in Jim Murray's 2012 Whisky Bible.

The 21-year-old single malt scored a record-equalling 97.5 points out of 100.

The whisky is matured in American oak casks and bottled at the Pulteney distillery in Wick, Caithness.

xcheck

June 12th, 2012, 06:51 AM

3712

Celebrated the Kings' Stanley Cup victory with this. Yum.

Hipcheck

June 12th, 2012, 04:06 PM

I suppose now is a good time to get back into looking at a quality scotch.

lunchbox

June 14th, 2012, 01:36 AM

Celebrated the Kings' Stanley Cup victory with this. Yum.

one of my superstitions was having a night cap of scotch after every win. i ran out after round 2, i think though, and moved on to bourbon instead. my next bottle is gonna be a lagavulin. it's the power of suggestion and ron swanson at work there.

xcheck

June 14th, 2012, 08:45 AM

one of my superstitions was having a night cap of scotch after every win. i ran out after round 2, i think though, and moved on to bourbon instead. my next bottle is gonna be a lagavulin. it's the power of suggestion and ron swanson at work there.

Nothing wrong with a good Bourbon. Love the George T. Stagg and Pappy 15.

If you're going to go with Lag, might I recommend the Lag 12. I think its now at all places selling for more than the 16. But it is much much much better.

ROBUSTO

June 15th, 2012, 07:42 PM

Laphroaig is the s**t.

lunchbox

June 17th, 2012, 01:47 AM

Nothing wrong with a good Bourbon. Love the George T. Stagg and Pappy 15.

If you're going to go with Lag, might I recommend the Lag 12. I think its now at all places selling for more than the 16. But it is much much much better.

tried getting the 12 today and they said they haven't had it in a couple years, something about it being hard to get, rare or whatever. oh well. went with the 16 to try. as i understand it, it's a bit peatier than what we normally drink.

they were doing some special on ardberg, too, but i passed.

xcheck

June 17th, 2012, 09:05 AM

tried getting the 12 today and they said they haven't had it in a couple years, something about it being hard to get, rare or whatever. oh well. went with the 16 to try. as i understand it, it's a bit peatier than what we normally drink.

they were doing some special on ardberg, too, but i passed.

The Lag 12 was a limited release. I am hoping it becomes one of their regular releases. You can search for it on wine searcher. There are some stores in New York still selling it for under $70.

The special on Ardbeg may have been the new Day bottling. Very spicy and very very very very heavily peated. Only slightly less peaty than the Supernova. It flew off the shelves when it was released. Hi Times in Orange County had a big Ardbeg Day event. I've tasted it a couple of times. The first time all I got was burnt grassy peat. The second time I got more of the spice, but still seemed to be very one-notish; not terribly dynamic and not worth the price tag.

lunchbox

June 18th, 2012, 12:08 AM

The Lag 12 was a limited release. I am hoping it becomes one of their regular releases. You can search for it on wine searcher. There are some stores in New York still selling it for under $70.

The special on Ardbeg may have been the new Day bottling. Very spicy and very very very very heavily peated. Only slightly less peaty than the Supernova. It flew off the shelves when it was released. Hi Times in Orange County had a big Ardbeg Day event. I've tasted it a couple of times. The first time all I got was burnt grassy peat. The second time I got more of the spice, but still seemed to be very one-notish; not terribly dynamic and not worth the price tag.

that's where i was. hi-times. and ya, from what the ardberg girl was telling me and what you are telling me now, it's not my thing. it was weird though, she had the table set up to look like they would do a tasting and i wasn't the only one who asked, but she said they weren't. so i didn't really want to stray away from what i was there to pick up.

it was funny... normally, the people at hi-times are super friendly and helpful but the guy who "helped" me with the scotch was like comic book guy from the simpsons when i asked him if they had any other lagavulin bottles, perhaps in the back.
i'm not likely to go outta my way and order it from out of state, but thanks. :)

OTTo VoN BLoTTo

June 18th, 2012, 01:43 PM

The first time I tasted Ardbeg in a lineup it was like someone had stuffed an old tire with green olives and lit it on fire. It was repulsive, disgusting, intriguing, mesmerizing, and finally bewitching. And I bought it. Once the tire smoke blows off (or with a cigar) a much deeper character and some very pretty flavors peeked out.

3712

Celebrated the Kings' Stanley Cup victory with this. Yum.

LOVE the Glencairn glasses. And about 6 bucks a pop. Take that, Riedel.

sonnyboy11

June 18th, 2012, 10:11 PM

Laphroaig is the s**t.

Ya know, I'm just not a fan. I LOVE Islay malts. That peaty, smokey flavor is genuinely unique. But Laphroaig is too medicinal tasting for me. And there are a lot of really good Islay drops out there. A lot.

xcheck

June 19th, 2012, 06:01 PM

Ya know, I'm just not a fan. I LOVE Islay malts. That peaty, smokey flavor is genuinely unique. But Laphroaig is too medicinal tasting for me. And there are a lot of really good Islay drops out there. A lot.

I made an interesting and affordable purchase that contains a little bit of mystery. It is the Ellenstown 10. This is an independent bottling of some Islay distillery, and the consensus is that it is Ardbeg. My palate does not equate it with anything Ardbeg. It is usually sold in the $55 range. Loaded with spice and well balanced with peat.

Ellenstown has also released a 12 year which is very different from the 10, and from my palate is quite clearly a Bruichladdich. It is not nearly as good as the 10 yr.

If you're in the market for a value Islay, definitely look into the Ellenstown 10. You won't be disappointed.

sonnyboy11

June 21st, 2012, 06:39 PM

I made an interesting and affordable purchase that contains a little bit of mystery. It is the Ellenstown 10. This is an independent bottling of some Islay distillery, and the consensus is that it is Ardbeg. My palate does not equate it with anything Ardbeg. It is usually sold in the $55 range. Loaded with spice and well balanced with peat.

Ellenstown has also released a 12 year which is very different from the 10, and from my palate is quite clearly a Bruichladdich. It is not nearly as good as the 10 yr.

If you're in the market for a value Islay, definitely look into the Ellenstown 10. You won't be disappointed.

Where can I pick some of this up? Bevmo?

Might have posted this earlier, but for a while Bevmo carried a small label brand By Jon, Mark and Robbo aka The Easy Drinking Whiskey Company. Sadly, I think they are no more. But they had what I would characterize as an "entry level" Islay style malt at around $35 a bottle called The Smokey, Peaty One. Sure wish I could find something like it again. I thought it hit home pretty well, especially for the price. An olde review here

Spirits Review | Reviews | Scotch Vatted | Jon, Mark and Robbo's Malt Scotch Whiskey | The Smokey Peaty One (http://www.spiritsreview.com/reviews-scotch-jon-mark-robbo-smokey-peaty.htm)

xcheck

June 22nd, 2012, 08:22 AM

I got my Ellenstown at Wades Wines in the Westlake Village area. If you go, chat up Marty. He runs their whiskey program. If you get him a good discussion, he might... just might give a you a sample of something interesting.

xcheck

July 24th, 2012, 07:56 PM

Thought I'd throw this out there again. The LA Scotch Club is holding its annual Peatin Meatin. Check out the website lascotchclub.com; especially the promotional video.

It's $75; pricey, I know. That includes an extraordinary amount of really good peated whisky, dinner, a t-shirt and a Peatin Meatin glencairn glass. It really is the Superbowl of our year, and is amazing. If you go, you will not be disappointed.

xcheck

July 26th, 2012, 09:01 PM

The whiskies being sampled this weekend at Peatin Meatin (and I believe the big one in the back is a 4.5L bottle of Ardbeg):

3963

lunchbox

July 28th, 2012, 01:51 AM

The whiskies being sampled this weekend at Peatin Meatin (and I believe the big one in the back is a 4.5L bottle of Ardbeg):

3963

goodness. :38smile:

xcheck

August 12th, 2012, 09:00 PM

So the other night I got to go to a Glenlivet tasting. Frankly, not one of my faves. Actually, I find it rather pedestrian and even though it is reasonably priced, I'd just as soon pass on it for other interesting stuff. But my suspicions were correct as it turned out, and the brand ambassador who was putting on the tasting is an old friend who I haven't seen in over 10 years. Also, they did not present their usual stuff.

This tasting involved some single barrel selections that apparently are completely sold out. One was called Helios, another called Josie, and a third called Legacy. These single barrel bottlings represent nothing of the usual stuff the distillery puts out.

The Helios was not terribly exciting. Good spice, vanilla and banana notes consistent with a good scotch aged in American oak barrels. The Josie was f'in amazing. I was so shocked that I liked it as much as I did. Aged 17 years in a Sherry Butt, the whisky was a complex set of dried fruits including apricot, cherry and peach with a very long spicy finish. The type of whisky that exhibits an extremely satisfying complexity. The Legacy was also very good. I did not find as exciting as the Josie, but its still very good.

Just found some pricing and they are available. The Legacy is only (only?) $145US from a store in Germany, and the Josie is going for around $225US at Royal Mile in England. Ouch. Why do I always like the very expensive ones?

xcheck

August 14th, 2012, 10:23 AM

In following up on the Glenlivet event from last week, while there, me and few friends had a nice chat with Rick Edwards who is a representative for many distilleries in a vast portfolio. Two of which are Glenlivet and Aberlour. So, we arranged an Aberlour tasting at the last minute, which was nicely attended. The goal of the event was to see if we could discern different tasting notes from different batches of Abunadh.

The Abunadh (pronounced, Ah-BOON-ah, with perhaps a very slight "R" at the tail end) is a cask strength, sherry cask release that Aberlour releases marking the batch and barrel on each label. For many of my friends, there are favorite batches and some batches to avoid. One friend is such a freakazoid about the Abunadh that he has a journal discerning which batch and barrel are superior to the others.

So we tasted the Aberlour 12, 16, and 18 which are doublewoods (meaning the whisky is aged in sherry and American oak casks) and three different batches of Abunadh (16, 21 and 39). The general consensus seemed to be that there were consistent flavor characteristics across the different batch, but as you look closer, there are definite variances. For me, Batch 39 presented much more complexity with good sweet dried fruit of apple and fig, with a bone dry, spicy finish that was very long and mellowed into a black licorice type of taste. On the other hand, Batch 21 just did not present much discernable taste at all. Batch 16 was complex, for my palate, not as good as the 39. Batch 16 had a mustiness that was a little off-putting for me.

These are good whiskies and are reasonably priced. If you like sherry bombs you should definitely check them out. That Batch 39 is a recent release so it might be available in stores.

xcheck

February 7th, 2013, 09:31 AM

Bump. So who's heard of Nth? Check this out. It is a tasting in Vegas on March 1 and 2. Expensive, but I hear it has some of the most premium whisky being sampled.

Universal Whisky Experience (http://universalwhiskyexperience.com/)

lunchbox

February 9th, 2013, 02:24 AM

xmas presents from my father-in-law:
http://i151.photobucket.com/albums/s140/MsSkye79/photo-135.jpg

not as fancy, but he currently keeps a bottle of tomatin in his cabinet at home for us when we want a night cap.

xcheck

February 28th, 2013, 03:23 PM

4209

What is this you ask? Coffee in a mini Glencairn glass? Water colored with caramel? No. This is what happens to Glenfarclas whisky when it is aged in a sherry barrel for 42 years. This is the Glenfarclas 1970 and it was brilliant. Needless to say the nose was all sherry with hints of various tree fruit (a little red apple). The taste had several chocolate tones (milk and dark), orange, grapefruit and lots of sherry wood (imagine that). The finish was long and gentle with lots of dark chocolate.

The others tasted last night were all single barrel bottlings that included: Glen Garioch 14; Faultline 10; Caperdonich 18; Glendronach 19; Kilchoman (4 year, no age statement was actually presented); Buichladdich (around 10 yr.); Benriach 1984 (27 yr.). It was put on by K&L Wines to feature some of their single barrel offerings.

The gem for me was the Kilchoman. For those who don't know, this is the newest distillery on Islay. In fact, I think it is the first new distillery on Islay in about 100 years. They started releasing their whisky only a year or two ago (because under Scottish law, whisky must be aged at least 3 years to be labeled as "whisky"; until then it is called "spirit" or "new make"). The Kilchoman was really interesting and pretty expensive at $120 per bottle. The value was the Faultline. This is not the name of the distillery. Some distilleries do not allow unique bottlings like single barrel releases or independent bottlings so a release of a unique bottle from those distilleries must be done under a different name. The Faultline is actually Glenmorangie. It is being sold for $55 per bottle. It is just a solid, very drinkable whisky.

If you find this interesting, keep your eyes peeled either at the LA Scotch Club website or K&L's website. There may be another event very shortly featuring many of the same bottles.

xcheck

May 15th, 2013, 09:34 PM

Bump. This once masterful thread is slowly dying. Let's not hope the scotch consumption out there isn't. Here are some gems I recently tasted:

Miltonduff 1989 22 yr-Chieftans
Glenfarclas 1996 15 yr. Traverso's Bottling
Highland Park Bicentenary 1977
Highland Park 25
Bowmore 28 1984 D&M Aficianados Club
Bowmore 1989 16
Laphrooaig 1995 16 yr. Signatory
Longmorn-Glenlivet 1971 Scott's Selection
Dallas Dhu 12 Gordon & MacPhail
Rosebank 10 Murray McDavid
Glenlochy 1980 24 Duncan Taylor
Glen Mhor 1978 Scotts Selection
Imperial 17 1995 Scott's Selection
Compass Box Spice Tree
The Classic Cask 35

Of these the faves are Dallas Dhu (I'm partial to anything Dallas Dhu) and the Highland Parks. The Bicentenary was definitely not your typical HP, but I liked just the same. Most of the others were pretty good, but there were a couple of dogs like the Bowmore (FWP up the yin-yang... that's French Whore Perfume in reference to those whiskies that smell sickly vanilla sweet).

What has everyone out there been drinking?

OTTo VoN BLoTTo

September 17th, 2013, 06:55 PM

I've made a couple of disappointing purchases recently, first was a bottle of Glenrothes Select Reserve recommended by a friend at the store that day. Upon opening it was all sherry and wood and I knew immediately that it wasn't what I was looking for and wondered how in the hell I'm ever gonna get through the bottle to get on to the next--even considered giving it away. Luckily, after being open for a few weeks the bottle did settle in a bit and now after a few months it's showing some prettier aspects and gotten enjoyable--though I'd never buy it again. The sherry cask influence is just too prominent for my liking.

Halfway through the Glenrothes I decided to go ahead and pick up another in hopes of having a bottle I could reach for happily, and after staring at the usual suspects for an hour went with the Glenfarclas 12 which I'd never had, but I'd LOVED the 21yr that I'd gotten many years back. It also seemed tight and super woody (think mushrooms) at opening and I lamented that I now have TWO bad bottles--and both at like $50 each--where there's so many good alternatives at that price point. I coulda just gone withe the Hakushu 12 which I absolutely love and has been my last two or three (and goes QUICK in my house) Again though, the Glenfarclas has opened up and revealed more complexities and balance and gotten drinkable. I'm starting to wonder if it's me, or something in the bottling process? I don't remember ever being so put off by new bottles. Anyway, I'll do more research and reading before picking the next.

Oh, there is one more purchase however that I'm quite proud of:

http://vintageliquor.com/images/HIGHLAND_PARK_30yrs_SINGLE_MALT_750ml.jpg

Got two bottles for the ridiculously nice price of $200 each. Gave one to my pops covering basically two years worth of Birthday; Xmas; and father's day. :good: This took no blowing off whatsoever: easily and far and away the best Single Malt I've ever tasted.

lunchbox

September 18th, 2013, 03:49 PM

i think i'm gonna try one of the basic but well rated japanese single malts next time i'm in the market for scotch. a nikka or suntory.

FBJ

September 18th, 2013, 04:36 PM

I got a bottle of Nikka Yoichi 20 for my 40th birthday back in June.

http://cdn2.masterofmalt.com/whiskies/p-1987/yoichi-20-year-old-whiskey.jpg

I never would have bought this on my own (on account of the price). Wife went out on a limb (knowing I like whiskeys)...and she made a good choice!

Considering it's 52% ABV and the fact that it's aged in new oak casks, Yoichi has a distinctly spicy tinge to its scent and its initial sip. That bit of fire is quickly tempered, though, by a creaminess on the palate that settles in after a second or third sip. Taking time to find the earthy hint of peach and mild orange/lemon notes that follow the initial spice makes it an enjoyable sip. I like it's finish.

Did you all know that the website Master of Malt (http://www.masterofmalt.com/samples/) sells 3cl samples of this stuff (and LOTS of other stuff in sample sizes)!?!?!? I think I've found my new favorite website!!! What a great way to taste some of the REALLY nice whiskeys!!!

FBJ

September 18th, 2013, 05:04 PM

Other stuff I got this past birthday (who knew that 40 was the whiskey birthday?) in addition to the Yoichi:

A bottle of The Macallan 17 Old Fine Oak (my best buddy toured the distillery in Scottland and brought this back for me). SOOOOO FREAKIN GOOD...my favorite Scotch of the lot I think.
Two bottles of The Macallan 12 Sherry Oak (one 750ml and a big ass 1.75L)
A bottle of Big Bottom Zin Cask Bourbon <------GO TO TOTAL WINE RIGHT NOW AND BUY THIS TO TRY (It's a nice zinfandel cask aged bourbon...VERY tasty! They've got a straight oak as well as a port cask version as well...all good!)
A bottle of Cragganmore 12

I've got great family and friends.

OTTo VoN BLoTTo

September 26th, 2013, 01:15 AM

i think i'm gonna try one of the basic but well rated japanese single malts next time i'm in the market for scotch. a nikka or suntory.

If you're thinking a 12yr, I would definitely recommend Suntory's the Hakushu as a highly enjoyable and dangerously delicious Japanese bottle.

I got a bottle of Nikka Yoichi 20 for my 40th birthday back in June.

http://cdn2.masterofmalt.com/whiskies/p-1987/yoichi-20-year-old-whiskey.jpg

I never would have bought this on my own (on account of the price). Wife went out on a limb (knowing I like whiskeys)...and she made a good choice!

Considering it's 52% ABV and the fact that it's aged in new oak casks, Yoichi has a distinctly spicy tinge to its scent and its initial sip. That bit of fire is quickly tempered, though, by a creaminess on the palate that settles in after a second or third sip. Taking time to find the earthy hint of peach and mild orange/lemon notes that follow the initial spice makes it an enjoyable sip. I like it's finish.

Did you all know that the website Master of Malt (http://www.masterofmalt.com/samples/) sells 3cl samples of this stuff (and LOTS of other stuff in sample sizes)!?!?!? I think I've found my new favorite website!!! What a great way to taste some of the REALLY nice whiskeys!!!

Other stuff I got this past birthday (who knew that 40 was the whiskey birthday?) in addition to the Yoichi:

A bottle of The Macallan 17 Old Fine Oak (my best buddy toured the distillery in Scottland and brought this back for me). SOOOOO FREAKIN GOOD...my favorite Scotch of the lot I think.
Two bottles of The Macallan 12 Sherry Oak (one 750ml and a big ass 1.75L)
A bottle of Big Bottom Zin Cask Bourbon <------GO TO TOTAL WINE RIGHT NOW AND BUY THIS TO TRY (It's a nice zinfandel cask aged bourbon...VERY tasty! They've got a straight oak as well as a port cask version as well...all good!)
A bottle of Cragganmore 12

I've got great family and friends.

Great stuff! And man, Yoichi 20 is a fantastic gift!! The only problem with the Japanese greats is that the bottles go WAY too fast. They're born and bred for irresistible deliciousness.

Yeah, with all the negatives to getting older, if there's one positive it's the liquid presents absolutely do get better. At least we have that. :26smile:

I may hit up a sample of the Big bottom bourbon if I can find it. Any others you'd like to recommend please don't hesitate to bump the bourbon thread. I respect your taste and any input is appreciated!

FBJ

September 26th, 2013, 08:10 PM

Big Bottom is about $35 at TW. You won't be disappointed. I've given it as a gift to several people, and they've all loved it.

FBJ

October 2nd, 2013, 04:38 PM

Does anyone know for certain which distillery makes the Kirkland 20year Scotch at Costco? It's a speyside...and damned if it isn't like butter. It USED to say on the label (it was Macallan), but it no longer does. The funny thing is that it says on the label that it's aged in oak casks for 20 years and finished in sherry casks. It doesn't say how long it was finished. If it is still from Macallan, this method would be different than their normal, which is to age in sherry casks. Maybe that's why it no longer states the distillery??

Not as if it really matters. This is a 20 year old bottle of Scotch for under $60. I'd call it a score.

xcheck

October 6th, 2013, 11:47 AM

4565

Sampled this last night.

lunchbox

October 7th, 2013, 03:47 PM

there was an ardberg rep at my local fine spirits shop who was trying to get me to buy their whisky. i forget what she had to offer outside of the information she was trained to repeat, maybe a complimentary scotch glass? i remember i asked her if they had any to taste and she said "no" so i didn't buy. it wasn't just the lack of tasting that turned me off though. the girl had a strong surfer girl accent... it sounded like the stereotypical valley girl you'd hear in a parody (only i live by the coast and a good hour south of the valley) + super ditzy. i just couldn't listen to her talk anymore so i ducked in and grabbed a lagavulin and ducked out fast. i'd be inclined to buy though if it's truly a good distillery.

xcheck

October 9th, 2013, 06:56 PM

Ardbeg is great. Especially the provenance. Be prepared to take out a 2nd mortgage to pay for it.

It's too bad that they got a ditzy idiot to promote it. That seems to be getting popular. It kinda worked for Laphroig.

FBJ

October 23rd, 2013, 05:21 PM

Here in Providence, RI tonight, I have the pleasure of staying in a crew hotel that gives us a nice 50% discount on food and drink. It just so happens they have an extensive collection of single malts, so I figured I should snap off a double of something new!

https://scontent-a-iad.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/1379253_10202096104341697_858853168_n.jpg

Bowmore 18 year.

In a single word:

YUM!!!

In a few more snooty, ipsy-pipsy, scotch-snob-sounding words:

Sticking my nose in the glass, it had bit of a solvent scent with what I thought to be an almost spearmint-like tinge on the back end of the whiff. Compared to my go-to (Macallan 12) this is a very different beast to the nostrils, and frankly I was a bit turned-off by it at first. However, as I indulged, it grew to be rather nice.

Neat, it has an almost luxurious buttery mellowness with only a very slight peatiness to the taste. The usual wood smoke is certainly there. No (or at least very little) heat to this scotch at all, making it a real pleasure to swill around in my mouth. Water opened it up nicely, bringing out a floral flavor that was vaguely gin-like and a deepening of the buttery smooth palate.

The finish was all orange blossoms and plumish-grapey.

I liked it.

But then again, I don't know jack about Scotch. ;)

orpheus

October 23rd, 2013, 05:34 PM

Sounds good.

If I ever visit Providence, I am gonna get drunk on good Scotch and visit Lovecraft's tomb. ;)

FBJ

February 25th, 2014, 06:23 PM

https://scontent-b-lax.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/t1/1962591_10203003174377881_903784825_n.jpg

"Craigellachie, we have a problem."

Was awarded that as tribute on my birthday last year (June 6). Ran out last week. Costco isn't carrying 12 at the moment. Looks like I might need to go to Total Wine tomorrow.

So Sumi

February 28th, 2014, 12:02 AM

Balvenie 12 or 15
Oban
Macallan 12 and beyond
Glenlivet
Dimple Pinch
Glenmorangie

Dewars (for blends)

So Sumi

March 5th, 2014, 03:50 PM

I know this isn't a blend but has anyone tried the Dewars 12 year blend. It's $21.99 @ Trader Joe's. Just curious.

xcheck

March 10th, 2014, 07:14 PM

JWR

April 11th, 2014, 11:07 AM

Sounds good.

If I ever visit Providence, I am gonna get drunk on good Scotch and visit Lovecraft's tomb. ;)

I have a gravestone rubbing from Lovecraft's tombstone that was put up in 1977 (he in in the family crypt) framed in my den.

JWR

April 15th, 2014, 03:50 PM

During a trip to Bevmo yesterday and picked up a new one for myself Dewar's Aberfeldy 12 year single highland malt
a touch of honey to start then spice with a touch of orange. Very enjoyable neet.
BevMo! - Aberfeldy 12 Year Old (http://www.bevmo.com/Shop/ProductDetail.aspx/Spirits/Scotch/Highland/Aberfeldy/Aberfeldy-12-Year-Old/22951)

xcheck

July 19th, 2014, 11:24 AM

For the Peat Freaks out there: Peatin' Meetin'*|* (http://peatinmeetin.com/)

Don't miss it. You will not be disappointed.

xcheck

October 22nd, 2014, 08:39 PM

5237

Finally did the Scotland trip. These are the bottles that gf and I brought back. We visited about 16 distilleries. Just an amazing trip.

rinkrat

October 23rd, 2014, 11:02 AM

I gotta try some of this :)

xcheck

October 25th, 2014, 04:14 PM

Just cracked open the first of the bottles brought back from Scotland. Now, we tasted most of these before buying them. This one is an exception because it was not being sampled. It is a Gordon & Macphail Glen Grant 25 year. The aroma presents with some old wood and ripe banana. The taste is aged spice, a slight hint of heat, a little vanilla, and a very nice long finish.

As my girlfriend just put it, "That is way too easy to drink."

rinkrat

October 26th, 2014, 07:21 PM

OK, I'm on board Snuck a bottle into the cart at Costco.

I got some Buchanan's. It tastes like novacaine with liquid smoke in it.

xcheck

October 26th, 2014, 08:23 PM

OK, I'm on board Snuck a bottle into the cart at Costco.

I got some Buchanan's. It tastes like novacaine with liquid smoke in it.

Mmmmmmmmm... liquid smoke

rinkrat

October 31st, 2014, 03:54 PM

I tried it again last night and it was pretty nice. VERY woody taste but growing to like it.

LetTigerIn

November 2nd, 2014, 04:28 PM

I tried it again last night and it was pretty nice. VERY woody taste but growing to like it.

How, if at all, does the taste change with a dash of water?

rinkrat

November 2nd, 2014, 09:06 PM

I pour it over an ice cube or two and it is very tasty. Very smoky but I am getting used to it.

lunchbox

November 4th, 2014, 08:56 PM

How, if at all, does the taste change with a dash of water?

opens the flavors up. i always take it neat (no water, no ice) though. the only thing i might do is drop a whisky stone from the freezer in. so it cuts a bit of the heat without affecting the flavor of a single malt, neat. i always cringe when i look at instagram and see pictures of very high quality whisky served in a glass full of rocks....... :-/

OTTo VoN BLoTTo

November 13th, 2014, 01:37 AM

Can you have too much scotch? Apparently, which is why I haven't done much buying of late. But on a recent overseas trip, I stopped into the duty free and came across a series of Highland Parks that are sold only in duty free stores. This one is Highland Park Leif Erickson. A good solid dram. Not mind-blowing, but all around tasty. What makes this different from the usual HP releases is that they use American Oak for LE, whereas the usual releases typically use sherry casks and sherry butts. And if you're traveling overseas, need a good drink on the plane, and can't take a full bottle through security, this is a really good dram.

I thought I would be able to buy some other bottles on the way home, but to no avail. There were a couple other HP's that are sold only in duty free shops, and looked mighty tasty.

I picked up the Leif Erickson on a Europe trip a couple years back, and you nailed it. Not earth-moving, but damn delicious. They had a little tasting table right there in Duty Free and it stood out from the other HP's from the oak no doubt. But honestly, the box was just too cool to pass up.

5237

Finally did the Scotland trip. These are the bottles that gf and I brought back. We visited about 16 distilleries. Just an amazing trip.

HOLY *****!!!!!! Respect! congrats:

xcheck

November 23rd, 2014, 11:59 AM

So we had the friends over for the massive Scotch tasting of of the several bottles we brought back: Gordon & MacPhails Glen Grant 25, Tomatin Cu Bocan Sherry Cask, Ardbeg Kildalton, Dalmore Distillery Exclusive (18 year finished in two different port casks), 4 Kilchomans, 19 year Laphroig barrel sample, Arran Millennium, Arran Machrie Moor cask strength, Arran sherry single cask, Caol Ila Stitchel Reserve (unpeated whisky), Caol Ila Feis Isle 2013 and 2014, Lagavulin single cask and Glen Moray VC10.

Good times. Sure made the Kings' loss a little less bothersome.