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SRP,
Are there any scotch drinkers out there? I would imagine this topic has been hit on before, but I'm still new :) I used to be a fan of good quality Bourbon, but once I was turned onto the world of single malt, there really is no comparison. Right now, I have a bottle of Lagavulin 16, a Glenmorangie 10, and a Glenmorangie 12 Sherry Wood Finish. I have tried many single malts, and love to share my experiences with gentlemen such as yourselves. Let the comments roll! - JDCAL29 (Jim)
Well Jim, you certainly have tried 3 of the best in my opinion. I am particularly a fan of "the Morangie".
Another favorite of mine is Aberlour a'bunadh (aboonah) which is a Speyside single malt. Great, full and rich and i think a little water to open it up is a must. And of course you can't beat Balvenie and any of it's forms.
If you are new to Scotch, then don't fall into the trap of demanding single malts only. There are many good blends that are to be enjoyed as well. Single malt only became an official designation in the 1960's. Up until then it could be either.
Will N.
Not to be unfriendly, but i agree on the bourbon. A friend gave me a glass of one of the finest bourbons around (don't know the name...) but no. Whiskey (or whisky) is awesome. My favorite is Caol Ila. Its a Islay whiskey and very smoky, something not everyone likes. Others I like are Glenfidich, oban, Lagavulin, Ardberg, Laphroaig, Bunnahabhain. Awesome. Also Irish whiskeys have a distict taste, of which Jameson is the most known.
Enjoy your new hobby!:beer1:
Quote:
Originally Posted by Diederik
Looks like you have an excellent taste sir. Caol Ila is my top one. Glenfiddich, Laphroaig, Bunnahabhain and Jameson are on my favorite list too. Another excellent whiskey of my taste is Tyrconnel.
I'm by no means new to Scotch. What I don't like is that there are "six classic malts" that liquor stores advertise..... It's really just an advertising thing. Glenmorangie puts out a good product all around, in my not so humble opinion. Balvenie Double Wood is very good too. Once a person drinks scotch for awhile, they general gravitate toward the Islay stuff, such as Laphroaig, and Lagavulin. It's like beer or wine or anything else... after you've had it for awhile, your palate changes....
I had my b-day the other week, i got a straight razor and a bottle of Tyrconnel :)Quote:
Originally Posted by Sailor
(Also more things but i'll spare you the details...)
And i really like the Tyrconnel!
You should give the Scapa 14 YO a try. It is IMHO a very nice scotch smooth and full of flavour.
Diederik,
So you are saying that you do not care for bourbon? Not to insult your intelligence or anything, but bourbon is whiskey. It just happens to be distilled elsewhere.
Yes, but; bourbon has to lagered in new barrels (required by law). Whiskey is lagered in bourbon, wine, port or anything-barrels or whatever else. The taste of new oak gives bourbon a specific taste. I dont mean it's bad whiskey, just not mine. Islay whiskey is just my taste.Quote:
Originally Posted by JDCAL29
BTW i dont know if "lagered" is a english word, i mean "put for x years in a barrel"
Bourbon and scotch are BOTH types of whiskey, specific types, but both are whiskey. This is not a knock, just some information.Quote:
Originally Posted by Diederik
Lager is a German word meaning aged or stored, usually used for beers that are stored, usually in caves that stay at about 52-55 degrees F. Aged is usually used for spirits of any other kind.
Single Malt Scotch is my spirit of choice, and the Islays are, shall we say, an acquired taste (one that I have acquired), but there are other Scotch whiskeys that I like very much, Balvenie in particular.
If you can get them in the Netherlands (that's where you are from, right?) I recommend you try some of the small batch bourbons on the market; Bookers is one that comes to mind. They are expensive for bourbons, but mostly cheaper than a lot of the higher end Scotch, around $40-60.
There's actually quite a few Scotch drinker's here. I'm into a bottle of Lagavulin 16 myself, I love the Peaty Malts....I'm also drinkng GlenLivet....I like all the Glen's.. Livet, Morangie, Fiddich....etc...I want to try Bunnahabhain....
I'm not sure I understand the idea that once you're into scotch, there's no going back.
I can definitely appreciate a good single malt, but I'll also go for a good bourbon, rye or irish depending on my mood (not to mention a vodka and lime as well).
Right now I've got Laphroaig 10, Macallan 12, Talisker 18 and Glenmorangie Nectar d'Orr on my shelf; but also Blanton's, Basil Haydens, and Buellit bourbons and Rdemption and Rittenhouse Ryes plus Black Bush and about a quarter bottle of Bushmill's 16-year malt (most of these have been on hand for over a year since I don't drink much at home and with that many options they don't tend to get opened very often)
Another one that I've been meaning to replace for quite some time since I finished it was a bottle of Claret-cask finished Bowmore, which I'd definitely reccomend to anyone who likes strong smoke in their scotch.
I see what you mean, and I guess a decent bourbon from time to time is okay. Personally, other whiskeys pale in comparison to the almighty single malt. Like whatever you like and be happy about it!
A number of good Whiskys listed here in this thread mmmm, I am not someone who dislikes Irish whisky, or bourbon, but if given the neccessity of choosing one line I would have to follow my nose down the path of the good ole single malt scotch.
I have recently favoured the Macallan 10 yo.
Geek
Lagavulin is probably my favorite, followed closely by Laphroaig. Not for the meek. Very peaty. Indeed a manly scotch - much like straight razor shaving:DQuote:
Originally Posted by JDCAL29
Lagavulin and Laphroaig are definitely manly and highly respected Islay malts. Have you had Ardbeg? It packs a punch too!
I know, I know. It's only Tuesday... For me it is since I live in New Zealand.
Last night my wife and I had our regular catchup get together with the principal of her school and this time it was at his house.
Let me start this by saying he is Scotish... enough said. He and I got through 1.5 bottles of French red wine before he decides to break out the Single Malt's. Yes, plural. The first was some 18 year old, absolutely stunning (not a chick fellas) something or other. I can't remember it's name. He proceeded to follow that up with a 31 year old, cask strength, limited edition Bunnahabhain.
It was nothing short of liquid gold. I can't describe how good it was.
Of course when something is that good and I am offered another glass, how could I be so rude as to say "no thank you". So, the next nosing glass was poured and finally at 11:30 my wife drives us home.
Brilliant night.
However, this morning was another story. Let's just say my head has been better.
Not that it's for everyone, and I posted some of the same in an earlier post - but if you want something with a sweeter note -
1. MacAallan 12 year - aged in sherry casks so it is pretty heavy on the sherry. Can be a little overwhelming at times if you don't have a taste for it.
2. Glenfarclas 12 year - just a hint of sherry. So it has a sweeter finish, but isn't over the top. I just tried it for the first time about a month ago, and quickly picked up a bottle.
For something a little smokey and earthy - a ton of the Islays are good. Also - Irish Whisky.... Connemara. Any of them are at the top of my list if I'm looking for something on a crappy, cold, rainy day. Seems to fit the mood just right.
Just my two pennies.
For something lighter, I really like Cragganmore. It has a really light and fragrant taste to it. Another gem, in my opinion, is Glendronach 12. I had one glass of it at a friends house in Duluth, MN., but had trouble trying to order it from a local liquor store. Glendronach's distillery, as I understand, went under for awhile and is now getting back in business. There is also a Glendronach 15 Year Old Revival, which I haven't tried. I guess that's what we have the internet for these days!
A few that I've tried and now will probably stay away from are:
Oban 14, Dalwhinnie 15, and Tomatin 12. They certainly weren't bad, but I'm really getting selective with my taste.
I've given up drinking scotch...
You see I have this cold from hell and can't taste a thing so why waste the marvels of flavor that we delight in? I'm thinking of laying in a supply of Everclear for the duration and return to the delights of barbequed barley if my senses of taste and smell ever return. :shrug:
:beer2:
Pardon the pictures, but I recently opened these bottles and enjoyed them. More to follow.
There's not one of the above-named scotches that I don't enjoy....just enjoy some more. Lagavulin is a good go-to scotch for me as is the Macallan Cask Strength (sherry cask aged). The only marginal single malt I've tried I bought for the name....Sheep Dip.
I agree that there are some blends that should not be snubbed.
Lastly, I suggest tasting from a good glass made for sipping single malts....slender, rounded bottom, straight sides, with an out-turned lip....well, here's a good one to check one out:
The creme de la creme of luxury glass. The Riedel Sommeliers Single Malt Scotch Glass brings forward the pure malt character of whiskies concentrating their aromas and accentuating their softness, roundness and silkiness. The small, slightly out-turned lip directs the spirit onto the tip of the tongue, where sweetness is perceived, and serves to bring out the elegant creaminess of a top-quality single malt. A far superior glass for drinking fine whiskies than traditional spirits tumblers (subtle aromas of the whisky are lost) and brandy balloons (emphasize the alcohol at the expense of finesse). Mouth blown 24% leaded glass. Recommend to hand wash.
Recommended for: Single Malt Whisky, Malt Whisky, Whisky/Whiskey
Size: 4-1/2"H, 7 oz.
Riedel Model # 4400/80
Ok, the description is over the top and I have certainly enjoyed single malts from a sierra cup but.....why not.
i live on the whisky trail in the highlands with one of the bells distileries about 4 miles down the road,i like a dram but still enjoy a pint of tennants.
Speaking of Bourbon....may I request a vote?
Knob Creek vs. Makers Mark
I love my single malts, just the other evening I had a tasting with some friends that including an old Johnny Walker Blue (not a single, I know) but still!
The other two bottles we tasted was a Laphoraig 18, which was the star for me and proved the Walker blue label overrated, amazing stuff, and a Macallan 12 (not good imo, nothing like the older ones).
I just bought my first bottle of Lagavulin 16 today and I can't wait for trying it sometime later in the week. I love Islay scotches, especially Arbeg.Quote:
Originally Posted by zib
I think all of Walker stuff is kind of a joke to be honest. The fact that it isn't a single malt is really a turnoff.
Okay, I admit it. I don't know anything about the appreciation for a good single malt, let alone mixed malts whisky. But I would like to learn and this forum appears to be a great place for that. Anyone out there who can provide some good advice for a newbe? Honestly, I am really a vodka or gin person. Don't get off on beer. But would seriously like to try some good malts and develop an appreciation for them. Any suggestions will be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
Senoreme, I'd be happy to help you discover some good single malts. In my opinion, a good place to start is Glenmorangie 10 "The Original." It has a golden label, and you should be able to find it at any reputable liquor store. You could also go for Cragganmore 12 Year, and Oban 14 Year. I'd say give one of those three a shot first. Of the three... Cragganmore would be the lightest. It has sortof a fragrant taste to it, and is really light. Oban is a decent scotch, but I would only consider it as a gateway into better things. I wouldn't purchase it anymore. Glenmorangie, in my opinion, makes good products all the way around. "The Original" is just a good, no nonsense single malt. All of these bottles will be roughly $45 a piece. Let me know what you try! Another question for you. Do you drink whiskey at all? Can you handle the bite that certain kinds give? Scotch can sometimes be pretty heavy hitting and it's a SIN to put a single malt on ice.
Keep us posted! - Jim
Quote:
Originally Posted by JDCAL29
I really don't understand this attitude about blended Scotch Whiskey. Some of them are fabulous tasting and to frown upon them just because they are blended is short sighted.
For many years, one of my favorites is the JW 18 year old. It is a fine, smooth, flavorful tasting whiskey with no bite at what I consider a very reasonable price. To find a single malt that compares you have to spend at least 30-40% more. (around here JW18 is about $80.)
I thoroughly enjoy all types of good whiskey. I don't snub anything until I have tasted the whiskey.
Good advice. You may want to look at the Glenfiddich line also.Quote:
Originally Posted by JDCAL29
Thank you so much Jim. Your information is very helpful. I have tried regular scotch like JW. A few others. I often have enjoyed a glass of it when out with friends. I do however wish to learn more and acquire a taste for the better scotch. I will definitely begin by purchasing a bottle of one of the scotch's which you suggested. I will get back to you. Again, thank you Jim.
I live about 5 miles from the Bronx. Come on over I have a bunch you can taste.Quote:
Originally Posted by senoreme
Jeff
No Problem! I'm curious to hear which bottle you choose and how it works out for you. As for blended scotch...it's not that I am totally against it and think it's worthless.... in fact, one of the first scotches I bought was Cutty Sark, which is decent. I have heard good things about The Famous Grouse. It's a 3 way between Macallan Single Malt, Highland Park Single Malt and The Glenrothes Single Malt. Those three single malts are real heavy hitters in the scotch world. I have not tried The Famous Grouse, but certainly would not turn a blind eye to it.
Scotch is like anything else... you can argue about what's best, what is bad, what is overpriced, but at the end of the day, as long as you are happy with it, that's all that matters.
- Jim
Argue, heck I'd rather just have a a dram or 2 and discuss which one we liked best at the time.Quote:
Originally Posted by JDCAL29
Anyway, this afternoon I picked up a bottle of Highland Park 18. I'll go looking for the Signatory this weekend. By the way, the Macallan is a fabulous drink, one of my favorites.
When it comes to hard liquor, I drink mostly scotch
From a light Glenmorangie to a peaty Laphroaig.
After all, we don't want any of them to feel neglected ;)
Santa just left a bottle of Bottle of Balvenie 21 finished in Portwood WOW!!!!
Great whiskey. I have several bottles of Balvenie, all worth while. Enjoy!!!Quote:
Originally Posted by nessmuck
Well for christmas I was gifted a bottle of Macallan 18 year and bought my self a bottle of Balvenie 15 single barrel. Not going to open the Balvenie till new years or I may wait. But the Macallan got open and shared the night I got it (a couple of weeks ago ;))
Well im happy, i got a bottle of Laphroiag 10 yr , Laphroiag Quarter Cask, Macallan Fine Oak and Bruichladdich Waves for christmas.
The waves is in the top 3 of my all time favourite Single Malts.
;)
Oh. I am a big scotch drinker here!