AAABatteries
Footballguy
Michters Rye is great. I’ve wanted to get a barrel strength for years but can’t find it.
Their American whiskey is pretty good too.
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The Scotch Whisky Thread (2 Viewers)
- Thread starter Doctor Detroit
- Start date
Their American whiskey is pretty good too.
jdoggydogg
Footballguy
UPDATE: I've been trying Templeton Rye. It's around $30 ($20 less than Michter's) but I gotta say it might be just as good.
BobbyLayne
Footballguy
I'm marrying a whiskey drinking woman in ten days and could use some advice.
Her tolerance has gone out the window bc she's been dating a clear liquor man the last 18 months. I do enjoy a well crafted old fashioned, though, and thought a nice rye would be a good addition to the cabinet and make a thoughtful for-no-reason gift to my bride.
Forgive my ignorance, please. What is the difference between bourbon and rye and whiskey? I know she loves Bulleit bourbon / Frontier whiskey. Is Bulleit rye something different?
Also this thread makes me a little sad bc of the number of missing FBGs who used to contribute to it (Doctor Detroit, Genedoc, et al.)
BobbyLayne
Footballguy
This is what she is currently drinking if that provides any clues as to what rye she might like (previous post.) I have no idea what I'm doing when it comes to bourbon/rye/whiskey but would like to be a little less ignorant.
AAABatteries
Footballguy
Blows out….
I could post pages but will try and keep it simple.
Bourbon must be made in America and be 51% corn as the primary grain. Then you can use secondary grains (wheat, rye, malted barley) to get the flavor and profile you want.
Bourbon is typically sweeter than most other whiskeys due to the corn.
Rye has to be, you guessed it, at least 51% rye.
Scotch must be made in Scotland and you have all the different regions with different profiles.
Japanese whiskey doesn’t have a lot of rules and I know little about it.
Irish must be made in Ireland and I believe must contain malted barley.
Each grain gives different flavor and profile. Again, corn typically sweet and rye typically spicy (think baking spices) or even minty.
I think Bulliet sources still from MGP. And their best known mashbill (the makeup of the grains) is 95/5, rye/malted barley. It’s one of my favorites and I believe the Templeton that jdogg mentions is MGP sourced. Same with Bulleit (but these things change constantly and I don’t really keep up).
if she likes Bulleit bourbon I would just try their Rye.
If you are looking to spend a little money on a rye let me know your price range and I can make some recommendations.
AAABatteries
Footballguy
And btw, I’ve heard nothing but good things about Hibiki Harmony and would like to buy a bottle myself one day. I just never pull the trigger. I’ve had the Toki and it was just ok for me.
Oh, and all of those are whiskeys. I think all whiskey use grains in their fermentation process and then all (or most) aged in wood barrels. But don’t quote me on this.
My personal whiskey preference:
Rye > Bourbon > Irish > Canadian > Scotch > Japanese
but everybody’s taste is different.
Oh, and all of those are whiskeys. I think all whiskey use grains in their fermentation process and then all (or most) aged in wood barrels. But don’t quote me on this.
My personal whiskey preference:
Rye > Bourbon > Irish > Canadian > Scotch > Japanese
but everybody’s taste is different.
BobbyLayne
Footballguy
Great post, thanks for your patience.
I'm good going with the Bulleit Rye, we live modestly.
Instinctive
Footballguy
If she is currently drinking Japanese and liking it, chances are she would like scotch.BobbyLayne said:
If "this" meant the Hibiki Harmony, I would recommend a simple, classic Macallan or similar. I would AVOID anything a liquor store helper described as peaty or smokey.
If "this" mean the Suntory Toki, another blended scotch at a lower price level is probably a good choice. Japanese stuff tends to be a good deal, so maybe $10-20 more for the scotch, blended, non-peated would be my goal.
Leeroy Jenkins
Footballguy
This is really good. The "biting into a spiky ball" description is right on point. I don't know how to describe it otherwise, and it is a pleasing feeling on the tongue. Lots of burnt toast and peat on this one -- Ardbeg after all. But I get some sweetness or licorice as well. Very good.
Leeroy Jenkins
Footballguy
Just got a bottle of Ardbeg Fermutation. I liked Ardcore so much, I thought I would try another of their special releases.
I also reupped my Lagavulin 16. That is about to be my first bottle kill and entrant into my infinity bottle.
I also reupped my Lagavulin 16. That is about to be my first bottle kill and entrant into my infinity bottle.
Charlie Steiner
Footballguy
Wanted to bump this not because I finally got around to trying this for myself, but because I found something local that reminded me of these notes.
Grey Wolf is located in St. Mary's Md. Last year I had their rye that had been aged in a mezcal barrel that wasn't bad, and this year they've released their first single-malt American Whiskey. The biggest notes are chocolate and coffee, and it's sweet overall. I hope they tinker with the recipe a little and tone down the chocolate and up the coffee, as my palate identified it as smoke more than coffee. At $35 for 375ml, it's not a bargain but I'd have it again if offered.
rockaction
Footballguy
Where is and how is the good Dr. that started this thread? I hope he's doing well...
Psychopav
Help us, Joebi-Wan Brynobi, you're our only ho
Got this as a present from a good friend. It is outstanding, like the complicated love child between Lagavulin and a good peppery Irish whiskey.
Dan Lambskin
Footballguy
Not a big scotch guy but willing to give if another shot
What are some good easily accessible bottles of some of the different regions
What are some good easily accessible bottles of some of the different regions
Start with Balvenie double wood 12 yr
Charlie Steiner
Footballguy
I've been so into trying bourbons this year that I haven't had much scotch, so to try and come back to my first whisk(e)y love a little, I explored the bargain basement some more:
McClelland's Islay: Bowmore claims credit for producing this blend. More malty than I hoped and only went down by adding a heavy splash of water.
Carlyle Blended Scotch Whisky: The maltiness that comes with sub $20 scotches is not new to me, but the malt in this one is just too much front and center.
Islay Gold Lorcan: A Total Wine employee let me taste a sample of their 10 year offering and it was Islay enough that it would scratch my itch (though at $40, it's not as good as another of their own brands that costs less--Scarabus), so I gave this one a chance. It wasn't as good as the 10 year. I think it's supposed to be reminiscent of Lagavulin 8, but it's not as sweet and pretty much misses the mark. Not calling this a mistake, but again, I've had other scotches that I liked better for less.
Lang's Smooth and Mellow: Another Total Wine label, it was neither smooth nor mellow; in fact it was malty and malty. Even at $14, I felt ripped off. Makes me glad Total Wine takes returns with no questions asked.
Total Wine is both a blessing and curse for me. They have exclusive brands that are easy on my wallet that I have no problem having over and over, but it's frustrating when they don't have them on the shelves for months and months. Plus, the staff tends to try and guide customers to the Total Wine brands regardless of what we come in for. I used to like that approach, as I felt they were giving me options, but at this point I see it more as they're just trying to move their own brands first.
McClelland's Islay: Bowmore claims credit for producing this blend. More malty than I hoped and only went down by adding a heavy splash of water.
Carlyle Blended Scotch Whisky: The maltiness that comes with sub $20 scotches is not new to me, but the malt in this one is just too much front and center.
Islay Gold Lorcan: A Total Wine employee let me taste a sample of their 10 year offering and it was Islay enough that it would scratch my itch (though at $40, it's not as good as another of their own brands that costs less--Scarabus), so I gave this one a chance. It wasn't as good as the 10 year. I think it's supposed to be reminiscent of Lagavulin 8, but it's not as sweet and pretty much misses the mark. Not calling this a mistake, but again, I've had other scotches that I liked better for less.
Lang's Smooth and Mellow: Another Total Wine label, it was neither smooth nor mellow; in fact it was malty and malty. Even at $14, I felt ripped off. Makes me glad Total Wine takes returns with no questions asked.
Total Wine is both a blessing and curse for me. They have exclusive brands that are easy on my wallet that I have no problem having over and over, but it's frustrating when they don't have them on the shelves for months and months. Plus, the staff tends to try and guide customers to the Total Wine brands regardless of what we come in for. I used to like that approach, as I felt they were giving me options, but at this point I see it more as they're just trying to move their own brands first.
Charlie Steiner
Footballguy
One of my go-to stores made news all the way over on the left coast...
If you like rare Japanese whisky.
If you like rare Japanese whisky.
Charlie Steiner
Footballguy
Made a double-foray into Speysides with sample-sized Glenlivet 12 and Glenfiddich 12.
Still prefer Macallan to both, neither were bad drams. The Glenfiddich was a little more interesting with a splash of water, though. Both are out of my normal price range but at least now if I'm ever offered one at a party or something, I'll know what I'm getting into.
In other news, among the many, many whisk(e)y-related youtube channels out there, I stumbled upon Bourbon and Booze, who created a ranking system that I've adopted. Their criteria are cost, aroma, flavor and bite, and the range is from 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest). Each category has specific terms for each rank, so while all of them except the first category are subjective, at least it lets you standardize your subjectivity. I've gone back and calculated all the different brands I've tried and plugged them into this formula. Of the more known brands I've tried among Scotch, Irish, bourbon and American whiskies, my top 3 are Lagavulin 16, Evan Williams Bottled in Bond and Macallan 12 Double Cask. The bargain-basement brand Sir Edward's--one of the first ones I tried--scored the highest overall, though, mainly because of its price, proving my belief that there are lies, damn lies and statistics.
Still prefer Macallan to both, neither were bad drams. The Glenfiddich was a little more interesting with a splash of water, though. Both are out of my normal price range but at least now if I'm ever offered one at a party or something, I'll know what I'm getting into.
In other news, among the many, many whisk(e)y-related youtube channels out there, I stumbled upon Bourbon and Booze, who created a ranking system that I've adopted. Their criteria are cost, aroma, flavor and bite, and the range is from 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest). Each category has specific terms for each rank, so while all of them except the first category are subjective, at least it lets you standardize your subjectivity. I've gone back and calculated all the different brands I've tried and plugged them into this formula. Of the more known brands I've tried among Scotch, Irish, bourbon and American whiskies, my top 3 are Lagavulin 16, Evan Williams Bottled in Bond and Macallan 12 Double Cask. The bargain-basement brand Sir Edward's--one of the first ones I tried--scored the highest overall, though, mainly because of its price, proving my belief that there are lies, damn lies and statistics.
Charlie Steiner
Footballguy
Another shameless plug for LAX Liquors in Beltsville, MD...
I've been visiting my parents almost every Saturday and hitting this store on my way home. Yesterday, my dad announced that he wanted to hit LAX himself as he was almost out of Jameson (bought on recommendation but he didn't care for it). Because I had once bought a bottle of Talisker 10 for one of my uncles as a thank-you, he picks one up himself instead of going for his usual Laphroiag 10. I did my usual shelf-scanning to see if anything stood out; my birthday passed recently and I opted not to buy myself anything at the time. I peruse both the scotch and bourbon aisles and just as I'm about to give up, I go back to the scotch aisle one last time and notice Bowmore 12 for 43.99. This has been on my Christmas wish list for the last 3 years and I seemed to recall that it was much pricier at my local Total Wine, so I pulled it up on my phone and sure enough, Total Wine wants 75.99 for the same bottle, so without even thinking, my arm reached out and grabbed one. Didn't wait until I got home to try it and opened it back at my parents' house instead.
First sip was a little sweeter but very reminiscent of Laphroiag 10 as far as being briny, peaty and smokey, and I preferred it more with a splash of water, which seemed to take just enough of the brine and smoke away. If I had paid ~$80 for this, I would have been disappointed, but at ~$45 I was pleased.
I've been visiting my parents almost every Saturday and hitting this store on my way home. Yesterday, my dad announced that he wanted to hit LAX himself as he was almost out of Jameson (bought on recommendation but he didn't care for it). Because I had once bought a bottle of Talisker 10 for one of my uncles as a thank-you, he picks one up himself instead of going for his usual Laphroiag 10. I did my usual shelf-scanning to see if anything stood out; my birthday passed recently and I opted not to buy myself anything at the time. I peruse both the scotch and bourbon aisles and just as I'm about to give up, I go back to the scotch aisle one last time and notice Bowmore 12 for 43.99. This has been on my Christmas wish list for the last 3 years and I seemed to recall that it was much pricier at my local Total Wine, so I pulled it up on my phone and sure enough, Total Wine wants 75.99 for the same bottle, so without even thinking, my arm reached out and grabbed one. Didn't wait until I got home to try it and opened it back at my parents' house instead.
First sip was a little sweeter but very reminiscent of Laphroiag 10 as far as being briny, peaty and smokey, and I preferred it more with a splash of water, which seemed to take just enough of the brine and smoke away. If I had paid ~$80 for this, I would have been disappointed, but at ~$45 I was pleased.
Charlie Steiner
Footballguy
Yet another shameless plug for LAX Liquors in Beltsville, MD...
During my weekly visit with my parents, my father mentions that he's out of whiskey and wants to go to LAX and get a bottle. The last time this subject came up, he expressed an interest in Lagavulin 16, so that's what I was expecting him to look for. Instead, he mentioned reading an article that piqued his interest in Aberlour. He chose the 12 Year Double Cask (he also grabbed a Maker's Mark mini) and we tried it as soon as we got back to the house. I got a substantial apricot note on the first sniff, which surprised me because normally I can't identify what I'm smelling. I didn't like much else of it until adding just the wee tiniest of drops of water to it opened it up and softened it very nicely.
This store doesn't have a website so it's impossible to check inventory before going, but since Total Wine does, we can compare costs. At the closest Total Wine, that same bottle sells for 71.99, while LAX had it for 54.99. I don't know how they are able to consistently and significantly undercut Total Wine, but I'm not complaining. I've even dropped their name to others when I've been in Total Wine and noticed someone contemplating a purchase I know is so much cheaper just a few miles down the road.
During my weekly visit with my parents, my father mentions that he's out of whiskey and wants to go to LAX and get a bottle. The last time this subject came up, he expressed an interest in Lagavulin 16, so that's what I was expecting him to look for. Instead, he mentioned reading an article that piqued his interest in Aberlour. He chose the 12 Year Double Cask (he also grabbed a Maker's Mark mini) and we tried it as soon as we got back to the house. I got a substantial apricot note on the first sniff, which surprised me because normally I can't identify what I'm smelling. I didn't like much else of it until adding just the wee tiniest of drops of water to it opened it up and softened it very nicely.
This store doesn't have a website so it's impossible to check inventory before going, but since Total Wine does, we can compare costs. At the closest Total Wine, that same bottle sells for 71.99, while LAX had it for 54.99. I don't know how they are able to consistently and significantly undercut Total Wine, but I'm not complaining. I've even dropped their name to others when I've been in Total Wine and noticed someone contemplating a purchase I know is so much cheaper just a few miles down the road.
Don Quixote
Footballguy
Thanks for the plug. Will need to check them out. I’m in ABC store country in Alexandria, VA, but Beltsville not too far of a drive for me.
Charlie Steiner
Footballguy
Straight shot north up Route 1 off the Beltway. You'll have to negotiate some pesky traffic and the parking lot isn't the most conducive to getting in and out but it's doable. As an added bonus, you can actually return to Route 1 south by circling behind the building, where you'll pass a local craft distillery. I haven't tried them yet, but on Saturday's they usually have signage out offering free tastings.
Their first store in SE DC is still there and would probably be a shorter drive for you.
AAABatteries
Footballguy
I’m not big on Scotch but developing a taste for it. Got a bottle of Aberlour A'Bunadh a while back and enjoy it quite a bit.
Leeroy Jenkins
Footballguy
Charlie Steiner
Footballguy
Mrs. Steiner surprised me with a whisky Advent calendar. Tonight's dram: Glengoyne 10 year. At ~$60, it's out of my normal price range but in this case you get what you pay for. 
CletiusMaximus
Footballguy
My Costco has Ardbeg An Oa for $53. I had it in my cart, then put it back on the shelf. Its been a while since I’ve had an Islay at home and I need to fix that so will probably go back this week. Curious whether any one else has tried that one.
Charlie Steiner
Footballguy
Whisky Advent calendar day 2: Tomatin 12 year.
Another highland sample though not as pleasant on the nose as the Glengoyne, which can be expected as it's also ~$15 cheaper. A little sharper on the palate yet still pleasant, floral/grassy and a very slight butter cookie note and a little smoky kick on the way down. I hate to say this, but Total Wine has a highland offering for under $25 that scratches my itch, so while I won't pass on it if given, I don't like it enough to part with $44 even though I say the price is justified. Another
Another highland sample though not as pleasant on the nose as the Glengoyne, which can be expected as it's also ~$15 cheaper. A little sharper on the palate yet still pleasant, floral/grassy and a very slight butter cookie note and a little smoky kick on the way down. I hate to say this, but Total Wine has a highland offering for under $25 that scratches my itch, so while I won't pass on it if given, I don't like it enough to part with $44 even though I say the price is justified. Another
Charlie Steiner
Footballguy
Whisky Advent calendar day 3: Jura 12 year.
The first islay out of the box, it has the familiar though slightly milder/more 'refined' nose compared to the other islays I've had (Lagavulin 8 and 16--though the nose on the 16 is better, Laphroiag 10, Ardbeg 10), as well as the classic islay smokey peaty notes. Doesn't seem to be available at my local Total Wine, but if I can find it elsewhere at $47, I would splurge in the right circumstance. again.
The first islay out of the box, it has the familiar though slightly milder/more 'refined' nose compared to the other islays I've had (Lagavulin 8 and 16--though the nose on the 16 is better, Laphroiag 10, Ardbeg 10), as well as the classic islay smokey peaty notes. Doesn't seem to be available at my local Total Wine, but if I can find it elsewhere at $47, I would splurge in the right circumstance.
again.
Dan Lambskin
Footballguy
I don’t recall which one I had (whatever the regular one would be I guess) but just picked up the Corryvreckan the other day
Psychopav
Help us, Joebi-Wan Brynobi, you're our only ho
I am so jealous of this. Keep posting so I can enjoy vicariously and continue to tell my family how awesome this gift would be (and maybe I can score one for next year!).Whisky Advent calendar day 3: Jura 12 year.
The first islay out of the box, it has the familiar though slightly milder/more 'refined' nose compared to the other islays I've had (Lagavulin 8 and 16--though the nose on the 16 is better, Laphroiag 10, Ardbeg 10), as well as the classic islay smokey peaty notes. Doesn't seem to be available at my local Total Wine, but if I can find it elsewhere at $47, I would splurge in the right circumstance.
Charlie Steiner
Footballguy
This was so out of the blue from my wife; she doesn't drink and only tolerates me drinking, or so I thought. I've never looked into these boxes before, but I think there are a lot of them out there for different types of whiskies.I am so jealous of this. Keep posting so I can enjoy vicariously and continue to tell my family how awesome this gift would be (and maybe I can score one for next year!).Whisky Advent calendar day 3: Jura 12 year.
The first islay out of the box, it has the familiar though slightly milder/more 'refined' nose compared to the other islays I've had (Lagavulin 8 and 16--though the nose on the 16 is better, Laphroiag 10, Ardbeg 10), as well as the classic islay smokey peaty notes. Doesn't seem to be available at my local Total Wine, but if I can find it elsewhere at $47, I would splurge in the right circumstance.
All the samples are listed on the back of the box, I recognize some of them (really looking forward to the Bunnahabain 12), so this should be quite an adventure.
Glad you're enjoying these posts. I'll try to step up my notes so that it's almost like you can taste them yourself.
Psychopav
Help us, Joebi-Wan Brynobi, you're our only ho
Excellent. Looking forward to the "notes of vanilla and fine leather with hints of honeyed persimmon that linger on the pallet."This was so out of the blue from my wife; she doesn't drink and only tolerates me drinking, or so I thought. I've never looked into these boxes before, but I think there are a lot of them out there for different types of whiskies.I am so jealous of this. Keep posting so I can enjoy vicariously and continue to tell my family how awesome this gift would be (and maybe I can score one for next year!).Whisky Advent calendar day 3: Jura 12 year.
The first islay out of the box, it has the familiar though slightly milder/more 'refined' nose compared to the other islays I've had (Lagavulin 8 and 16--though the nose on the 16 is better, Laphroiag 10, Ardbeg 10), as well as the classic islay smokey peaty notes. Doesn't seem to be available at my local Total Wine, but if I can find it elsewhere at $47, I would splurge in the right circumstance.
All the samples are listed on the back of the box, I recognize some of them (really looking forward to the Bunnahabain 12), so this should be quite an adventure.
Glad you're enjoying these posts. I'll try to step up my notes so that it's almost like you can taste them yourself.
AAABatteries
Footballguy
@Charlie Steiner - can you share a link to the whiskey advent calendar and/or post a pic?
Charlie Steiner
Footballguy
Whisky Advent calendar day 4: Parkmore 7 yr (distilled at Auchroisk distillery)
This one has a confusing history. Parkmore as a distillery ceased operating in 1988 and the name was apparently resurrected by Auchroisk, as subsidiary of the spirit conglomerate Diageo. What's not confusing is that like the original, Parkmore is a speyside, making it the first of its kind out of the box.
I hate to disappoint @Psychopav , but I'm not getting vanilla or fine leather, and while I don't know what persimmon smells like, there definitely is some sort of floral/overripe vegetation smell that treads the line between off-putting and inviting. Coincidentally, that's how it tastes as well, prompting my first need to add a couple drops of water, which dulled the floral/vegetation notes (which I liked) and revealed something smoky underneath (which I liked even more), reminding me of my first dram of Macallan 12.
My luck with speysides has been hit and miss; didn't like Glenlivet or Glenfiddich, yet I fell for Macallan 12 after adding a few drops of water. I'd like to say that Parkmore would be a cheaper alternative (as long as I add water), but I can't; it doesn't appear to be sold directly in the U.S.
Adding water was definitely its only saving grace. Between that and its rarity here, it's a hard pass for me.
This one has a confusing history. Parkmore as a distillery ceased operating in 1988 and the name was apparently resurrected by Auchroisk, as subsidiary of the spirit conglomerate Diageo. What's not confusing is that like the original, Parkmore is a speyside, making it the first of its kind out of the box.
I hate to disappoint @Psychopav , but I'm not getting vanilla or fine leather, and while I don't know what persimmon smells like, there definitely is some sort of floral/overripe vegetation smell that treads the line between off-putting and inviting. Coincidentally, that's how it tastes as well, prompting my first need to add a couple drops of water, which dulled the floral/vegetation notes (which I liked) and revealed something smoky underneath (which I liked even more), reminding me of my first dram of Macallan 12.
My luck with speysides has been hit and miss; didn't like Glenlivet or Glenfiddich, yet I fell for Macallan 12 after adding a few drops of water. I'd like to say that Parkmore would be a cheaper alternative (as long as I add water), but I can't; it doesn't appear to be sold directly in the U.S.
Adding water was definitely its only saving grace. Between that and its rarity here, it's a hard pass for me.
Charlie Steiner
Footballguy
Whiskey Advent calendar day 5: Clan Denny Speyside
A quick search told me that Clan Denny appears to be a subsidiary of a larger conglomerate, Douglas Laing, and their 'specialty' is blended scotches, drawing from distilleries across Scotland. I'm not anti-blended whisky, just don't have high hopes.
The nose is similar to last night's selection, though there is a strong hint of caramel that sort of sweetens the floral/vegetation aroma.
As for the taste, one of the problems with blends is that they tend to be more malty than single-malts, which to me is like having a soda fountain drink that's improperly mixed, such that there's more carbonated water than syrup. Adding a few drops of water calmed down the maltiness a little without killing the rest of it and gave a smoky/tobacco note on the very end, which I admit I liked.
This is another brand not readily available in the US, but if you're in the UK, you'd have to drop 28 pounds sterling for it, or ~$35 American.
While this is another pass for me, it did remind me that adding water to one's scotch is normal, which can turn a loser into something tolerable. Even though I would pass on buying, I would accept if given, as long as there's water available.
A quick search told me that Clan Denny appears to be a subsidiary of a larger conglomerate, Douglas Laing, and their 'specialty' is blended scotches, drawing from distilleries across Scotland. I'm not anti-blended whisky, just don't have high hopes.
The nose is similar to last night's selection, though there is a strong hint of caramel that sort of sweetens the floral/vegetation aroma.
As for the taste, one of the problems with blends is that they tend to be more malty than single-malts, which to me is like having a soda fountain drink that's improperly mixed, such that there's more carbonated water than syrup. Adding a few drops of water calmed down the maltiness a little without killing the rest of it and gave a smoky/tobacco note on the very end, which I admit I liked.
This is another brand not readily available in the US, but if you're in the UK, you'd have to drop 28 pounds sterling for it, or ~$35 American.
While this is another pass for me, it did remind me that adding water to one's scotch is normal, which can turn a loser into something tolerable. Even though I would pass on buying, I would accept if given, as long as there's water available.
MrJimiT
Footballguy
My expertise and experience is mostly in the bourbon/rye whiskey world. However over Thanksgiving holidays, I was limited to my choices with the relatives I was staying. I was enjoying (quite a bit actually) Balvenie 14 Yr Caribbean Cask Scotch. In MI I see the going rate is around $104. For those of you in the Scotch world, where does THIS particular bottle rate within the Scotch community?
Charlie Steiner
Footballguy
Even though I have no experience with Balvenie, I will say that no one else's opinion should matter when it comes to what you like, only that whatever you're buying is worth it to you.
That said, on one hand, $104 seems like a lot; on the other, it is 14 year-old single malt scotch, so the price doesn't seem out of whack, especially since it's going into another barrel for a while. Plus, you're a FBG, you probably have $104 in your couch cushions.
Charlie Steiner
Footballguy
Whisky Advent calendar day 6: Tamnavulin French Cabernet Red Wine Cask Finish.
Per wiki, Tamnavulin (speyside) originally operated from 1966-1995, then reopened under new ownership in 2007, sold to an international corporation in 2014 and then re-launched in 2016. This particular expression has only been around since 2020 and is available at my local Total Wine for $40.
This is the third speyside in a row, and the nose on this one is pretty much the same as the last two: floral/vegetation, though not as sharp, if that makes sense describing an odor. The taste is pretty much like the smell, floral and tame. Having learned my lesson last night, I didn't hesitate to add a few (3, just like the last two nights) drops of water, which really flattened the nose yet revealed a very slight mint aroma, as well as the usual smokiness and this time some sweetness on the palate.
$40 for a single-malt is a value, though without having tried the non-wine cask finished version to compare it to, I don't know how much difference the wine cask made. This is another pass on buying but accept if offered as long there's water available.
Per wiki, Tamnavulin (speyside) originally operated from 1966-1995, then reopened under new ownership in 2007, sold to an international corporation in 2014 and then re-launched in 2016. This particular expression has only been around since 2020 and is available at my local Total Wine for $40.
This is the third speyside in a row, and the nose on this one is pretty much the same as the last two: floral/vegetation, though not as sharp, if that makes sense describing an odor. The taste is pretty much like the smell, floral and tame. Having learned my lesson last night, I didn't hesitate to add a few (3, just like the last two nights) drops of water, which really flattened the nose yet revealed a very slight mint aroma, as well as the usual smokiness and this time some sweetness on the palate.
$40 for a single-malt is a value, though without having tried the non-wine cask finished version to compare it to, I don't know how much difference the wine cask made. This is another pass on buying but accept if offered as long there's water available.
Galileo
Footballguy
I like the Balvenie Doublewood 12 yr as a regular go to. You can get away a little cheaper with that at around $80.
Charlie Steiner
Footballguy
Whisky Advent calendar, day 7: Smoky Scot Islay 5-Year-old Single Malt
Masters of Malt says this brand is produced at the Caol Ila distillery, where it ages for 5 years in bourbon barrels before bottling at %46 ABV, and not sold directly in the U.S. Caol Ila has been on my 'to try' list for a while now, so it's a pleasant surprise to sample something that at one time in its life was Caol Ila whisky. It's also nice getting another islay after that run of speysides.
Despite having to endure aging in a former bourbon barrel, it retains a healthy dose of the typical islay aroma that reminds one of the seaside--salty, briny, plus a hint of iodine (in a good way). I've had Lagavulin 16 and 8, and this has a similar yet slightly weaker nose.
The first sip actually felt like my palate split the whisky in two when it hit my tongue, a sensation I've never had and not a pleasant experience. It tasted like the scotch and bourbon malts most of all, with a little smokiness and not much else after that. The nose mostly held up after adding water, and some of the maltiness was turned down, leaving a smoky/peaty/bourbon mix that doesn't seem to get along with itself.
Between its lack of availability in the U.S. and its lack of improvement with water, this one is a hard pass for me.
ETA: I like bourbon, so please don't take my 'disparaging' comments about bourbon too far; I just think they should probably just co-exist separately.
Masters of Malt says this brand is produced at the Caol Ila distillery, where it ages for 5 years in bourbon barrels before bottling at %46 ABV, and not sold directly in the U.S. Caol Ila has been on my 'to try' list for a while now, so it's a pleasant surprise to sample something that at one time in its life was Caol Ila whisky. It's also nice getting another islay after that run of speysides.
Despite having to endure aging in a former bourbon barrel, it retains a healthy dose of the typical islay aroma that reminds one of the seaside--salty, briny, plus a hint of iodine (in a good way). I've had Lagavulin 16 and 8, and this has a similar yet slightly weaker nose.
The first sip actually felt like my palate split the whisky in two when it hit my tongue, a sensation I've never had and not a pleasant experience. It tasted like the scotch and bourbon malts most of all, with a little smokiness and not much else after that. The nose mostly held up after adding water, and some of the maltiness was turned down, leaving a smoky/peaty/bourbon mix that doesn't seem to get along with itself.
Between its lack of availability in the U.S. and its lack of improvement with water, this one is a hard pass for me.
ETA: I like bourbon, so please don't take my 'disparaging' comments about bourbon too far; I just think they should probably just co-exist separately.
Charlie Steiner
Footballguy
***Sorry for the delay, I had to pick up my son late tonight, so I didn't want to drink until I wasn't driving anymore.***
Whisky Advent calendar day 8: Smoky Scot Islay 5-Year-old Single Malt.
Yes, you're reading that right, this is the same sample as last night. i think I can better describe what the first taste is like, as opposed to saying it split in two; rather, it was the infamous 'Kentucky hug' that bourbon sometimes gives you, but the burn started in my mouth instead of throat. Since water didn't really help last night, I'm going to finish it as is. Other than the description, nothing else changed, still a hard pass.
Whisky Advent calendar day 8: Smoky Scot Islay 5-Year-old Single Malt.
Yes, you're reading that right, this is the same sample as last night. i think I can better describe what the first taste is like, as opposed to saying it split in two; rather, it was the infamous 'Kentucky hug' that bourbon sometimes gives you, but the burn started in my mouth instead of throat. Since water didn't really help last night, I'm going to finish it as is. Other than the description, nothing else changed, still a hard pass.
Charlie Steiner
Footballguy
Whisky Advent calendar, day 9: Fettercairn Warehouse 2 Batch 2 Single-Malt Scotch Whisky
From the outset, it's clear that their marketing team is on point, with a slick website whose every link is chock full of pictures and flowery language. All I wanted to know was what 'family' of scotch it belonged to. Turns out it's a highland. This particular label was matured in a combination of 1st fill ex-American Rye barrels and 1st fill ex-bourbon barrels. Since 2009, the casks rested in Warehouse 2, gathering character and flavor before being bottled in 2021.
Uh oh. The last two days have given me examples of what happens when scotch and bourbon mix at the molecular level: the worst of both worlds. Here's hoping that highland plays better with strangers than islay does.
The nose is a muddled rye/bourbon/scotch mongrel of a smell where nobody wins.***In the interest of full disclosure, I have been getting a second opinion on the noses of these samples from my daughter. She's 21 but doesn't drink, which I feel gives me a very objective perspective. In this case, she found a mint note on the nose that I missed, so credit where it's due. From here on out, she will be known as the 'sniffling sniffler.'
First sip had the flash of heat I first got from Old Forester 100 proof, as well as a sour and sharp note that came out of nowhere. Second sip confirmed that whatever it is, it's sour and not in a good way, though also with a touch of smoke . A few drops of water didn't change the nose much, but it did reveal something more floral that blunted the sourness.
Total Wine doesn't carry it and it's available via Masters of Malt for ~$58. Water made it drinkable, but at the price of and hassle related to getting it, I won't buy it for myself, yet I would accept it if offered.
**PSA: don't give up on any scotch until you've tried it with water and/or on ice. My whiskey journey started with scotch, and while I gravitated to the ones I could drink neat, this calendar has been a reminder that scotch especially does some interesting things with a few drops of water. Water is also my secret for enjoying the lower quality Evan Williams products (Bottled-in-Bond and 1783 Small Batch specifically). You're welcome.
From the outset, it's clear that their marketing team is on point, with a slick website whose every link is chock full of pictures and flowery language. All I wanted to know was what 'family' of scotch it belonged to. Turns out it's a highland. This particular label was matured in a combination of 1st fill ex-American Rye barrels and 1st fill ex-bourbon barrels. Since 2009, the casks rested in Warehouse 2, gathering character and flavor before being bottled in 2021.
Uh oh. The last two days have given me examples of what happens when scotch and bourbon mix at the molecular level: the worst of both worlds. Here's hoping that highland plays better with strangers than islay does.
The nose is a muddled rye/bourbon/scotch mongrel of a smell where nobody wins.***In the interest of full disclosure, I have been getting a second opinion on the noses of these samples from my daughter. She's 21 but doesn't drink, which I feel gives me a very objective perspective. In this case, she found a mint note on the nose that I missed, so credit where it's due. From here on out, she will be known as the 'sniffling sniffler.'
First sip had the flash of heat I first got from Old Forester 100 proof, as well as a sour and sharp note that came out of nowhere. Second sip confirmed that whatever it is, it's sour and not in a good way, though also with a touch of smoke
. A few drops of water didn't change the nose much, but it did reveal something more floral that blunted the sourness.Total Wine doesn't carry it and it's available via Masters of Malt for ~$58. Water made it drinkable, but at the price of and hassle related to getting it, I won't buy it for myself, yet I would accept it if offered.
**PSA: don't give up on any scotch until you've tried it with water and/or on ice. My whiskey journey started with scotch, and while I gravitated to the ones I could drink neat, this calendar has been a reminder that scotch especially does some interesting things with a few drops of water. Water is also my secret for enjoying the lower quality Evan Williams products (Bottled-in-Bond and 1783 Small Batch specifically). You're welcome.
Charlie Steiner
Footballguy
Whisky Advent calendar day 10: Cu Bocan12 Year-Old Batch 1 Rum Cask
Cu Bocan comes from the Tomatin distillery, and the flowery language of their website promises flavours of grilled pineapple, sea salt, ginger and white chocolate. It's also recommended for enjoying during the Summer, so what better place to promote that than in a whisky Advent calendar?
I smelled the rum as soon as I opened it, and as much as I'd like to go right to water immediately, I couldn't break my habit and had to try it neat first. I got peat, smoke and burn. After adding water, the nose didn't really smell like much of anything. The Sniffling Sniffer's first note before adding water was 'fresh', and 'floral' after adding water. 'Fresh' may have meant 'astringent', which I've heard before when the ethanol is overpowering everything else. After water, the burn actually got stronger, but the overall taste improved.
With a suggested retail price of 65 pounds sterling for 700ml, it's a hard pass.
Cu Bocan comes from the Tomatin distillery, and the flowery language of their website promises flavours of grilled pineapple, sea salt, ginger and white chocolate. It's also recommended for enjoying during the Summer, so what better place to promote that than in a whisky Advent calendar?
I smelled the rum as soon as I opened it, and as much as I'd like to go right to water immediately, I couldn't break my habit and had to try it neat first. I got peat, smoke and burn. After adding water, the nose didn't really smell like much of anything. The Sniffling Sniffer's first note before adding water was 'fresh', and 'floral' after adding water. 'Fresh' may have meant 'astringent', which I've heard before when the ethanol is overpowering everything else. After water, the burn actually got stronger, but the overall taste improved.
With a suggested retail price of 65 pounds sterling for 700ml, it's a hard pass.
Psychopav
Help us, Joebi-Wan Brynobi, you're our only ho
I appreciate your dedication to the experience.
Charlie Steiner
Footballguy
And I appreciate your appreciation. Figuring out what I'm tasting is part of fun for me. I just hope to not come across as a snob or a stuffed shirt with my notes.I appreciate your dedication to the experience.
CletiusMaximus
Footballguy
And I appreciate your appreciation. Figuring out what I'm tasting is part of fun for me. I just hope to not come across as a snob or a stuffed shirt with my notes.I appreciate your dedication to the experience.
Not at all snobbish imo. I've enjoyed reading about your scotch journey and also appreciate you sharing your notes.
My neighbor gave me a gift box this past summer of a variety pack from https://drinksbythedram.com/ - 5 different scotches. I tried to take tasting notes but they're all just "Good, smooth" or "####ing good" or "smokey and really ####ing good"
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