What is your favorite Scotch Whisky

[eldondo]

If you wanna destroy the flavors by using ice.... do so. But if you wanna enjoy the real flavor of a Scotch you may use some drops of water, but never ice.

In Scotland they would KILL you if you use ice... just saying....

Other question: would you ever light a cigar with a Zippo gasoline lighter? I guess it´s a no go.... it´s the same with ice and Scotch.

[mithrilG60]

Actually no. Most of them will tell you to enjoy your whisky in whatever way makes you happy, not that if you don't do it in exactly the manner they advocate that you're wrong and wasting good malt. :tu

To answer your other question: I don't care how anyone chooses to enjoy their hobbies/vices/pursuits just so long as THEY enjoy them. I find anything else results in a rather condescending attitude, wouldn't you agree?

[eldondo]

I have to disagree cuz it's simply stupid to destroy a good flavor.

[mithrilG60]

The point that you don't seem to be grasping here is that what you may consider to be "destroying a good flavour" may be the preferred drinking method to others. Who really cares if someone else enjoys their whisky on ice/through a straw/upside down in in a plastic sippy-cup/however? To be blunt blindly insisting that your way is the only way to enjoy whisky and any other way is completely wrong and "destroying" the spirit is a very condescending attitude.

No one's trying to force you to drink you whisky over ice, if that's how they like their whisky then it's not your place to tell them that they're doing it wrong. Everyone has the the right to enjoy their hobbies as they see fit without pairing that enjoyment with a dose of self-righteousness from anyone else.

[eldondo]

I got a response from a well-known Independent bottler in Scotland, their "tasting specialist" wrote:

You are correct, ice does kill the flavour of whisky by closing in some of the flavours and highlighting others. On the other hand, the addition of water will change a whisky and open it up, taking some of the alcohol away. At the end of the day it is personal taste if you use water or not (but never ice). Personally some whiskies I drink straight and some I like with a few drops of water. The professional nosers will tell you that you should nose whisky at 20% abv – but for me this is too weak to taste.

[jmsremax]

I'm enjoying some Highland Park 12 right now. This stuff is great:tu

I am enjoying is and a bottle of Glenlivet 12 at the moment.

[eldondo]

Received a bottle of Glen Grant 1973 bottled for Thosop, Belgium... I guess I open it soon as a birtday dram....

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v638/eldondo/verschiedenes/GlenGrant1973THOSOP.jpg

[mithrilG60]

I got a response from a well-known Independent bottler in Scotland, their "tasting specialist" wrote:

Great, thanks for posting and reiterating what's already well known. You still continue to miss the point:

It is simply not your place to condescend and tell anyone else how they should or should not enjoy their whisky.

If someone wants to drink their whisky over ice what business of yours is it to tell them they're wrong and that they're destroying and wasting that whisky. Put simply it's not. Period.

You can extend that to any hobby or pursuit such as cigars, wine, beer, cars, etc: "Drink what you like, how you like it. Smoke what you like, how you like to smoke it." Pretty easy concept really. Pretentious attitudes on how things should be done don't add to the enjoyment of those pursuits... they just annoy those around you.

If you want to suggest that they should be drinking whisky neat and in a proper glass so as to get the best experience possible from nosing, flavour appreciation, etc that's one thing, however that is certainly not the way you are presenting your statements and that is the point I'm making here.

[Springsman]

I drink Balvenie, and Aberlour, and MacAllan, and Glenmorangie (Peter Taylor got me snockered on that one while in Scotland last year), and Glenkinchie and Dalwhinnie and Dallas Dhu and Inchgower, ohhh and Ardbeg and Glenturret and Oban, and Old Pulteney, and Royal Brackla, and Royal Lochnagar, sometimes some Singleton, and Deanston and Tomintoul or Teaninich, but would never pass up a dram of An Cnoc or Aberfeldy by any means nor The GlenRothes but alas...my taste is more extensive than my investments so sometimes am limited to an Elgin or Moray and sadly even a Knockando

Hail Mary fill my glass....

[eldondo]

Robert, have you ever tried Glenfarclas? The 25 yo. is a really good deal. I don´t know the prices in the US, but here it´s about EUR 80 per bottle, which is a good deal for a 25 yo.

BTW... I just enjoyed a very good Glenrothes 1973...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v638/eldondo/verschiedenes/glenrothes_1973-1.jpg

[dwoodward]

If you wanna destroy the flavors by using ice.... do so. But if you wanna enjoy the real flavor of a Scotch you may use some drops of water, but never ice.


So what if a person doesn't enjoy the taste of scotch straight up and enjoys the more mellow taste of it on ice? Are you saying they are wrong for drinking what they like? They should be forced to endure something they don't like just because you have a view that is different than theirs?

If that is the case, then I would hate parties at your place, last thing I need is someone yelling at me for drinking my beer in a glass with 2 olives rather than out of the bottle.

[eldondo]

Let´s say.... it was an advice... but instead of ice you should try to reduce the alcohol by adding some water... that won´t cool it down and influence the flavor...

[Springsman]

Robert, have you ever tried Glenfarclas? The 25 yo. is a really good deal. I don´t know the prices in the US, but here it´s about EUR 80 per bottle, which is a good deal for a 25 yo.

BTW... I just enjoyed a very good Glenrothes 1973...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v638/eldondo/verschiedenes/glenrothes_1973-1.jpg

We have (and I've tried) the Glenfarclas, but not the 25! That sounds awesome...I've been impressed with the Glenfarclas as a very good and inexpensive everydaydrinker ;) :banger

[mmblz]

I am drinking each straight up (neat) with no ice. I figured that was the best way to compare. Highly recommend to try the 15 year if you like the 12 year Glenlivet.

15 is actually my least favorite Glenlivet.
Starting with favorites:
18, Nadurra, 21, 12, 15
Haven't tried XXV...

[dwoodward]

15 is actually my least favorite Glenlivet.
Starting with favorites:
18, Nadurra, 21, 12, 15
Haven't tried XXV...

Well, that leaves more 15 for me! :r

Question for you, is the 18 worth the extra penny or even the 21? Or will the 12 and 15 serve just fine most of the time? I would like to try these, but every bar in town only has the 12 or 10 year versions of various scotches, makes it tough to sample without dropping the cash for a whole bottle.

[mmblz]

I love the 18 and Nadurra, both are definitely worth it IMO.
21 is a treat once in a while but it is almost too subtle. I probably won't buy it again.

[TripleF]

Grants

[dwoodward]

What exactly does putting a splash of water in a scotch do to it? Since I have been drinking scotch (and very much enjoying it) without ice for the last week or so, I have today put a splash of water in it. (no water dropper, so I couldn't get exactly a few drops, don't think it matters)

The scotch still has the flavor, but noticeably less burn when it gets to my stomach. I am still undecided if it tastes better.

Just wondering why this is "suggested" or done in the scotch community.

[mithrilG60]

It's done more to improve/change the nosing experience of the whisky than it it to effect the taste. Basically adding water releases more aromatics from the whisky by slightly diluting it and that dilution also reduces the deadening effect that alcohol has on your sense of smell which allows you to discern more. The higher the alcohol content of the whisky the more pronounced this effect is. However with high ABV cask strength whiskies it can also be very helpful in reducing how much the alcohol deadens your taste buds. In that scenario it obviously impacts both taste and nose.

With many cask strength whisky you want to add a surprising amount of water, for example with Aberlour A'bunadh which is ~60% ABV you'll want to add water at 2:1 whisky to water ratio to reduce it down to 40%. The difference in that case is very dramatic. With many you won't necessarily see a huge difference. Typically I'll add water to a new whisky the first couple times I try it and then if there no real difference I won't bother after that.

[eldondo]

Some Whiskys open some new tastes with a splash of water, some with a few drops and some get worse if you add water... you have to try it, there´s no general rule.

Tasting experts (e.g. at the distillery) put more and more water in it while trying until it´s reduced to app. 20 % of alcohol.

Whiskys coming outta Sherry casks are (in most cases) a bit more critical if you add water, it´s better to be cautious. If they´d only been in a Bourbon cask it´s less critical... but there are also exceptions on both sides... as always...

[GreekGodX]

Anyone ever try James Buchanan 18 yo scotch?

[jmsremax]

Hey fellas,

I have been enjoying Highland Park 12 and Glenlivet 12 this winter but i was wondering if you have a bottle(s) that is your summer scotch. Glenlivet is rather fruity so it could work, but i doubt i will touch the Highland Park. Your thoughts are greatly appreciated :tu

[Frodo]

Hey fellas,

I have been enjoying Highland Park 12 and Glenlivet 12 this winter but i was wondering if you have a bottle(s) that is your summer scotch. Glenlivet is rather fruity so it could work, but i doubt i will touch the Highland Park. Your thoughts are greatly appreciated :tu

Well, I generally switch to beer or tequila, but scotches I'd recommend for being lighter and easier in the summer would be Auchantoshan, Glengoyne and Bunnahabhain. The latter would be my preferance depending on the bottling of course.

[MurphysLaw]

The Macallan Fine Oak 25 is a favorite of mine, but I've been drinking Glenfiddich 15 a little more often lately

[Matt-N-Ga]

I'm loving the Red Breast 12. an amazing Pure Pot Still irish whiskey, and very highly recommended.

Single Malts, I'm gonna admit to not trying anything over 18yrs, but for me today, the Balvanie Doublewood is still my favorite.

[jmsremax]

I'm loving the Red Breast 12. an amazing Pure Pot Still irish whiskey, and very highly recommended.

Single Malts, I'm gonna admit to not trying anything over 18yrs, but for me today, the Balvanie Doublewood is still my favorite.

Ahh, Balvenie is the reason I switched from whiskey to scotch......great stuff.

[warren G.]

I love the 18 and Nadurra, both are definitely worth it IMO.
21 is a treat once in a while but it is almost too subtle. I probably won't buy it again.

While the 21 isn't a bad scotch at all, I just can't see myself paying the extra $$$ for it, when I can get a bottle of Highland Park 18. The Nadurra is definitely one of their more interesting offering.

[Christiel49]

It's done more to improve/change the nosing experience of the whisky than it it to effect the taste. Basically adding water releases more aromatics from the whisky by slightly diluting it and that dilution also reduces the deadening effect that alcohol has on your sense of smell which allows you to discern more. The higher the alcohol content of the whisky the more pronounced this effect is. However with high ABV cask strength whiskies it can also be very helpful in reducing how much the alcohol deadens your taste buds. In that scenario it obviously impacts both taste and nose.

With many cask strength whisky you want to add a surprising amount of water, for example with Aberlour A'bunadh which is ~60% ABV you'll want to add water at 2:1 whisky to water ratio to reduce it down to 40%. The difference in that case is very dramatic. With many you won't necessarily see a huge difference. Typically I'll add water to a new whisky the first couple times I try it and then if there no real difference I won't bother after that.
I wondered why I always put water in my scotch! I know that it taste better more aromatic, than just straight. Thanks for sharing!

[N2 GOLD]

Anyone ever try James Buchanan 18 yo scotch?

Yes, real nice & smooth... I keep on hand all the time... -(P

[ambientboy]

I was out last night celebrating a now-official divorce with a little Macallan 18yr. One of my faves.

[Bill86]

I was out last night celebrating a now-official divorce with a little Macallan 18yr. One of my faves.

I've yet to try the 18 but the 12 is pretty f**king tasty. Someday when I can find a decent bar that serves the 18 I'll definitely have a glass.

[Scottw]

Has anyone tried the new Glenfiddich Snow Phoenix? It doesn't specify an age to it but was bottled in 2010. Named after one of the worst winters in Scotland (last year), the roof in one section of the distillary actually collapsed from the snow. A retailer here (NJ) has a 3 pack of 750ml bottles for $210.

[Bill86]

Apparently from what I can find "the casks going into it range from 13 to 30 years old" and "It is a limited edition malt (albeit in an edition of 60,000 bottles), and cannot be repeated".

http://www.worldofwhiskies.com/component/option,com_lyftenbloggie/Itemid,214/day,01/id,18/month,12/view,entry/year,2010/

Hope that helps out a bit. Sounds interesting, seeing as how it is limited I'm sure you it wouldn't hurt to pick up a 3 pack. If I had the cash I would.

[GreekGodX]

I've yet to try the 18 but the 12 is pretty f**king tasty. Someday when I can find a decent bar that serves the 18 I'll definitely have a glass.

I love the 12 but I can't stand the 18. Obviously you should try it for yourself but I expected it to be so much better and I was very disappointed.

I'll ask again, Anyone ever try James Buchanan 18 yo scotch?

[Bill86]

I love the 12 but I can't stand the 18. Obviously you should try it for yourself but I expected it to be so much better and I was very disappointed.

I'll ask again, Anyone ever try James Buchanan 18 yo scotch?

Oh wow, that's disappointing especially considering the price point, $55 or so for the 12, the 18 is up around $160 a bottle. If I get the chance I'll try it though.

[Scottw]

Apparently from what I can find "the casks going into it range from 13 to 30 years old" and "It is a limited edition malt (albeit in an edition of 60,000 bottles), and cannot be repeated".

http://www.worldofwhiskies.com/component/option,com_lyftenbloggie/Itemid,214/day,01/id,18/month,12/view,entry/year,2010/

Hope that helps out a bit. Sounds interesting, seeing as how it is limited I'm sure you it wouldn't hurt to pick up a 3 pack. If I had the cash I would.
That's my sticking point too.

[BigCat]

I love the 12 but I can't stand the 18. Obviously you should try it for yourself but I expected it to be so much better and I was very disappointed.

I'll ask again, Anyone ever try James Buchanan 18 yo scotch?

I agree completely that the 18 is underwhelming. Did not strike me as worth the extra coin by any means.

As to the Buchanan, the only one I've known to drink it is Miguel Cabrera :D

[jmsremax]

I love the 12 but I can't stand the 18. Obviously you should try it for yourself but I expected it to be so much better and I was very disappointed.

I'll ask again, Anyone ever try James Buchanan 18 yo scotch?

I think this 12 will be part of my next scotch purchase. I keep hearing a lot of good things about this one. I need to find cheaper hobbies..... :D

[GreekGodX]

I agree completely that the 18 is underwhelming. Did not strike me as worth the extra coin by any means.

As to the Buchanan, the only one I've known to drink it is Miguel Cabrera :D

So your saying if it is good enough for him, it should be good enough for me? ;)

[w squared]

I'm loving the Red Breast 12. an amazing Pure Pot Still irish whiskey, and very highly recommended.


Redbreast is one of my favourite Irish whiskeys. Light, sweet, subtle, and smooth. An absolutely amazing whisky for the price.

As far as scotches go...

Lagavulin distiller's edition (the 1988 is my favourite)
Caol Ila 18 year (do you see a trend here?)
The MacAllan 18 (wonderful value in a top-shelf whisky)
Balvennie 21 year portwood

and three often overlooked scotches:

Talisker 10 year is charming knuckle-dragger of an Islay malt
Dalwhinnie is amazingly gentle, smooth, and subtle
The Bheag is a blend (shocking) that is unchillfiltered and absolutely first-rate!

[Frodo]

I'd like Ardbeg if the price was more attractive. Mostly Caol Ila and Bowmore although I do like Laphraoig Quarter Cask and various Glenfidiches. Bunnahabhain is pretty good too.

[ambientboy]

I split a bottle of Caol Ila 30 yr w a friend of mine last Memorial Day. His bro was on leave. I brought the ERdM Panatella Largas from the 80s, he brought the scotch. That was a grrrreat day.

[ambientboy]

I've yet to try the 18 but the 12 is pretty f**king tasty. Someday when I can find a decent bar that serves the 18 I'll definitely have a glass.

It's dangerous, you might never go back!

[oooo35980]

The Dalmore 21

[LostAbbott]

For your brothers who like peat flavor. Definitely give the Ardbeg Uigeadail a try. It has a stunningly complex pear flavor that is warm and not harsh. Also another one that is often over looked is the Longmorn 15yr

http://www.thewhiskyguide.com/Speyside/Longmorn.html
http://www.thewhiskyguide.com/Taste-Notes/ArdbegUigeadail.html

The best MacAllans are the cask bottling, easiest being the 12 year old that has been talked about on this page, but you can also find it easily in independent bottling for good prices. This is when a specific barrel is purchased and then bottled by and individual or independent bottler. These can very wildly in flavor and change with the barrels storage location and year. Very cool way to try out different flavors. I went to a store in Japan back in 2008 that had a whole row of just MaAallan bottling, there were probably 500 different bottles.

[warren G.]

yay :)
http://i122.photobucket.com/albums/o256/blueDick/IMG_8728.jpg

[jmsremax]

I recently had a glass of Macallan 12 and it was really good. It will definitely be added to my small collection of scotch.

[eldondo]

For your brothers who like peat flavor. Definitely give the Ardbeg Uigeadail a try...

That´s a good one... the first release from 2003 was the best imho... they used also a batch of sherry casks from the 70s for the blend... :dr

[AL_B_70]

A 12 year old Dalwhinnie is my all time favourite from the top of the Spey Valley in the Highlands. Full bodied but with just a hint of sweetness. Perfect dram every time :)

[hotreds]

http://www.whiskyandwines.com/images/rosebank_91_cask_str_macphails.jpg

[designwise1]

Abelour is my favorite so far.

[macpappy]

Just opened a bottle of Usquaebach 15 year old Highland Single Malt. Pretty good so far.

[Blak Smyth]

Really never tried Scotch. Someday maybe I will, I'm sure it needs to be good stuff to truly appreciate it.

[JohnnyFlake]

Really never tried Scotch. Someday maybe I will, I'm sure it needs to be good stuff to truly appreciate it.

If you definition of "Good Stuff" is high-end & expensive, that is not true! Unless you decide to fall into the category of a "Scotch Snob" who believes that the only good scotches are High-End Single Malts, there are a multitude of Blended Scotches in the $35 or less range and even a few Single Malts in that range that are excellent scotches.

[designwise1]

Like Famous Grouse and Chivas. Both excellent and cheap. For blended Scotch, that is.

[Blak Smyth]

If you definition of "Good Stuff" is high-end & expensive, that is not true! Unless you decide to fall into the category of a "Scotch Snob" who believes that the only good scotches are High-End Single Malts, there are a multitude of Blended Scotches in the $35 or less range and even a few Single Malts in that range that are excellent scotches.

I have no clue, just assumed more expensive means aged or better porducts. Apparently not the way it works.

[yourchoice]

I have no clue, just assumed more expensive means aged or better porducts. Apparently not the way it works.

In some cases, that is true, but I think you would have to acquire the taste for Scotch in general to appreciate the higher end Scotches nuances. I didn't buy my first $50+ Scotch until I thought I felt I appreciated and understood Scotch and the different parts of Scotland that produce different types (FWIW, I still predominately drink the <$50 stuff).

Likening it to cigars, I wouldn't (and didn't :)) buy a Padron 80th Maduro as my first foray into cigars...I knew I wouldn't appreciate it. Years later, I still smoke a lot of affordable cigars, while sometimes treating myself to something higher end. <----Substitute Lagavulin for Padron and Scotch for cigars and I think the sentence still has merit.

:2

[lilwing88]

My tastes range from cheap blends to expensive single malts. I've sampled some high-end stuff that tasted like a burning truck tire and some low-end stuff that was smooth as silk.

Famous Grouse is good stuff for sure......

I recently picked up The Balvenie 15yr Rum Cask ($60) that is out of this world! Gonna pair it with an AF SG CB tonight. Yum.

[Kingpin101]

Personally I like Johnnie Walker Black Label as a regular drinker. Have had the Blue Label on a couple of special occasions nice but overpriced.

[Weelok]

Abelour is my favorite so far.

+1 Oban is just as great. Depends on my mood.

[JarvisAmadio]

+1 Oban is just as great. Depends on my mood.

+1 join you, guys
but I also like Chivas :banger

[Ferrari5180]

Talisker 10
Ardbeg 10
Lagavulin 16
Ardbeg Uigeadail

[BigAsh]

New favorite .... Drinking Glenlivet 21.... "Christmas In a glass".... It's that good...,
Posted via Mobile Device

[BigAsh]

New favorite .... Drinking Glenlivet 21.... "Christmas In a glass".... It's that good...,
Posted via Mobile Device

http://i313.photobucket.com/albums/ll369/kdos66/873c283b.jpg
Posted via Mobile Device

[Matt-N-Ga]

Lately my favorite has been The Balvanie 14 yr Carribean Cask. love that bottle. have to keep it in stock at all times

[scotch&stogies]

My favorite right now is The Macallan 18yr old, Sherry Oak. The flavors, aroma, and smoothness are all amazing. Easily worth the $120 in my opinion.

[RWhisenand]

If I were to choose a favorate, I'd probably pick Oban. Although I mostly drink it at my wife's company events! Everyday I normally drink 12 YO Glenlivet, or 12 YO Macallam for more special events. There are plenty of <$50 bottles which are just great.

[Ogre]

So far for me its The Glenrothes 91.

[shark]

I've tried several once at a herf, where the manager of the club was pouring for anyone who wanted to try it, and even though I was a Scotch novice I found Ardbeg to be the best I've tried. Peaty, smoky, just very rich and good. Hard to describe exactly, but she asked if I wanted to cut it with a little water, considering it was a very heavy Scotch. I told her no way! The only way to drink Scotch is neat. :2

[LostAbbott]

I've tried several once at a herf, where the manager of the club was pouring for anyone who wanted to try it, and even though I was a Scotch novice I found Ardbeg to be the best I've tried. Peaty, smoky, just very rich and good. Hard to describe exactly, but she asked if I wanted to cut it with a little water, considering it was a very heavy Scotch. I told her no way! The only way to drink Scotch is neat. :2

Actually if you talk to any Scottish distiller they will tell you they bottle to scotch with the intention that you cut it with just a little bit of water. I tend to put about 1/4 of a shot of water for every 2 shots of scotch, of course this really depends a lot on the scotch. At a bar ask for the scotch neat and water on the side. It really cools Down the alcoholic spice and opens up the subtle flavors of the scotch.
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[w squared]

Actually if you talk to any Scottish distiller they will tell you they bottle to scotch with the intention that you cut it with just a little bit of water. I tend to put about 1/4 of a shot of water for every 2 shots of scotch, of course this really depends a lot on the scotch. At a bar ask for the scotch neat and water on the side. It really cools Down the alcoholic spice and opens up the subtle flavors of the scotch.
Posted via Mobile Device

Absolutely correct.

You may also find that some high-end scotch is bottle at cask strength - if you drink that without water, the alcohol concentration in it can end up anesthetizing your tongue, and you'll end up missing a lot of the subtle flavours. If you want to experiment with this (works best with a big Isla malt), get a good nosing glass, and try a little bit of scotch neat. Then add one or two drops of water, and try it again. And then a little bit more water, and try it again. At some point you will find that the added water has "opened up" the flavour profile of the whiskey, and you are noticing flavours that were hidden before.

Different scotches "want" different amounts of water to get to that "sweet spot" where the flavours are still concentrated, but the intense ones no longer mask the subtle ones.

[warpedcigars]

Been drinking alot of Glenmorangie 18yr, loving it.

[Zanaspus]

Still "green" in the world of single malts, but I could live on Laphroaig Quarter Cask and Talisker 10.

[jjmitchem]

I just started drinking scotch and I really like what I have tried so far:
The Glenlevit 12y
Glenfiddich 12y
and a glass of Laphroagh

All neat - didn't know about adding a little water, I'll have to try that

So far I prefer the Glenlevit over the Glenfiddich and I did not like the Laphroagh

Any suggestions as to what to try next are welcome. I need to find a good bar with some so I don't have to buy bottles

[Frodo]

Any suggestions as to what to try next are welcome. I need to find a good bar with some so I don't have to buy bottles

Some companies offer sets of 200ml bottles - you might want to see if your local liqourist carries them.

I would recommend trying Glenmorangie, Bunnahabhain, or Arran as your next step as malts that have a similar profile with some differences. Bruichladdich 08 (otherwise called "revival" is also pretty good and has a similar flavour profile. Auchantoshan and Glengoyne are both malts with less peat (smokiness) than your Glenlevit and Glenfiddich. If you want to dip your toe in the water as far as the peat goes, perhaps Highland Park might suit. Otherwise Oban (pricey), Glenkinchie, Bladnoch (HTF relatively), and Craggenmore are all scotches with low peat (smokiness).

Hope some of this helps...

[Kinky_yk]

I always keep a few certain bottles on hand (I tell the wife I need them just in case people stop over I need to have respectable offerings - then proceed to hoard them if someone did come over). I keep the Glenfiddich 12, 15 and 18yr on the shelf at all times, with the 15 hands down my favorite. I also just started drinking the Dalmore 12yr and really enjoy that one as well. For Christmas dinner this year I was able to put aside a bottle of the Glenfiddich Snow Phoenix to share with by brother-in-law/father-in-law. Also I just deposited a Dalmore Cigar Malt into my brand new (Christmas Present) monogrammed crystal decanter. A few Islay's; Laphroig and Lagavulin are good to have on hand too.

[Newbie_nick]

Either Macallan 12 or Aberlour 12 for me. I guess that I haven't tried anything more expensive than that!

[jdp]

Abelour A'bunadh - regular drinking scotch.. just great
after that..
Glenfarclas Cask Strength is really good for a regular drinking scotch.
then..
Laphroaig 10 Cask Strength
Lagulavin 12 Cask Strength
then maybe Macallan Cask...

I pretty well like them cask strength.

For something that has been diluted.. Glenrothes.. like their 1985 or 1991. Loved the 1974.. but can't get it any longer. Add Glenfarclas 21 as well.

[Garbandz]

Talisker and Springbank,especially the Springbank 10 year 100 proof.......

[UpInSmoke]

I am also a Scotch noob. I have only tried a few different bottles.
In order of preference:
Balvenie Doublewood 12yr
Glenfiddich 15yr
Glenfiddich 18yr
Glenlivet 12yr
Glenfiddich 12yr

[Savor the Stick]

The only one that I drink on a consistent basis is Balvenie Doublewood 12yr. Just haven't branched out yet to any of the others.

I would really be glad for some recommendations from others that like DW on what to try.:tu

[McSmokey]

Fairly new to scotch. Currently I've tried Talisker 18 and 10, Edradour 10 and Dalwhinnie 15. LOVE the Talisker, and looking for my next adventure in smokiness.

[Zanaspus]

Fairly new to scotch. Currently I've tried Talisker 18 and 10, Edradour 10 and Dalwhinnie 15. LOVE the Talisker, and looking for my next adventure in smokiness.

If you like the Talisker 18, the easiest recommendation is Highland Park 18.
Also, check out Islays. Laphroaig Quarter Cask and Ardbeg 10 would be an inexpensive exploration, Both are more smokey and medicinal than Talsiker but yummy in their own right.

[billybarue]

don't have a Costco in the town I'm in, in the Midwest. But last weekend at the Costco near Manhattan Beach in LA they had 16 yr Lagavulin for $65.

[backwoods357]

they had 16 yr Lagavulin for $65.
Damn, I'll have to go check tomorrow. My local costco mostly just carries Glenlivet 12 & 18 and a large variety of Macallan.

[Islayphile]

Lagavulin 16 is my favorite

others that enjoy

Islays
Lagavulin 12 Cask
Ardbeg 10
Laphroaig 10, Qtr Cask, 18
Caol Ila 12

Islands
Highland Park 12 & 18
Talisker 10


Highland

Macallan 12, 18, 25 and the 12 yr Sherry Oak Cask Strength

[hammondc]

I am also a Scotch noob. I have only tried a few different bottles.
In order of preference:
Balvenie Doublewood 12yr


YEP!! :tu

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

If anyone finds a good deal on Highland Park 18, shoot me a message please:)

[GreekGodX]

Picked up some The Glenlivet The Nadurra. It is cask strength and you can definitely tell! But after that subsides nice, sweet honey taste.

Picked up a bottle of Highland Park 15 yo that I'm trying tonight. Never had Highland Park before. Hope it is worth it.

[Islayphile]

Picked up some The Glenlivet The Nadurra. It is cask strength and you can definitely tell! But after that subsides nice, sweet honey taste.

Picked up a bottle of Highland Park 15 yo that I'm trying tonight. Never had Highland Park before. Hope it is worth it.

A few drops of the water in the Nadurra really opens things up.

HP 15 is good, but the 12 and 18 really shine IMO.

[GreekGodX]

A few drops of the water in the Nadurra really opens things up.

HP 15 is good, but the 12 and 18 really shine IMO.

I've heard the 18 is really good. I will have to try both.

You are right about the Nadurra. I add some water to all scotch.

[dwoodward]

Currently it's a bottle of Macallan 12yr that I am almost done with. I think I liked the 10yr better tho.

[Islayphile]

Currently it's a bottle of Macallan 12yr that I am almost done with. I think I liked the 10yr better tho.

Sounds like you prefer that oak better than the sherry cask offerings.

Macallan makes a 12, 15 and a 17 fine oak variety as well....

[McSmokey]

My new favorite Lagavulin 16

[Islayphile]

My new favorite Lagavulin 16

My favorite as well

:banger

[GI_Odie]

I am a die hard Glenlivet fan, French Oak Reserve 15 yr or the 18 yr.

There are some others that are nice such as Laphroaig and Glenmorangie, but something about Glenlivet just feels so nice to me.

[Fia]

My new favorite Lagavulin 16

Been meaning to try it. I have found the new Johnny Walker Double Black to be a pleasant surprise especially when you consider the low price point.

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

Been meaning to try it. I have found the new Johnny Walker Double Black to be a pleasant surprise especially when you consider the low price point.

What's the difference between Double Black and just regular JW Black? I actually really enjoy JW Black for what it is.

[Fia]

What's the difference between Double Black and just regular JW Black? I actually really enjoy JW Black for what it is.

It has a nice smokiness to it without being overbearing and still a slight sweetness on the finish.

[Frodo]

What's the difference between Double Black and just regular JW Black? I actually really enjoy JW Black for what it is.

I found the DB to be lighter but better defined flavours (more in-focus) than the regular BL.

I am a die hard Glenlivet fan, French Oak Reserve 15 yr or the 18 yr.

I'm not a Glenlivet fan but I have to admit the Naddura really won be over. World-class IMHO...

[McSmokey]

Been meaning to try it. I have found the new Johnny Walker Double Black to be a pleasant surprise especially when you consider the low price point.

I have been eyeing the DB though I usually stick to Single Malts. I picked up a bottle of Ardbeg 10 yesterday now this stuff is dangerous. Smooth as water with all the smoke and brine you want in an Islay

[backwoods357]

I'm not a Glenlivet fan but I have to admit the Naddura really won be over. World-class IMHO...

I absolutely love the nadurra, and lately I've been drinking nothing but sherry aged :dr .

[Islayphile]

I've been drinking Laphroaig Triple Wood lately...

very nice flavor profile...it's sort of a cross between an Islay and a Highland

[levrac68]

Johnny Blue...
Highland Park 18...
Macallan fine oak 21...
Balvenie 21...

Laphroaig is a little too smokey for me so I'll mix it in a less mature Scotch to get a hint of that flavor.

Cheers

[SteveH]

I've been on an Port Charlotte kick (Peated Bruichladdich)....But I think some of the new Kilchoman's are are starting to win a place in my heart.

[GreekGodX]

Any thoughts on Laguvulin 16 yo vs. Laguvulin 12 yo Distillers Edition?

The Distillers Edition is about 20 bucks more expensive than the 16 yo. Is the price difference worth it? Anyone have experience with one or both of them?

[Islayphile]

Any thoughts on Laguvulin 16 yo vs. Laguvulin 12 yo Distillers Edition?

The Distillers Edition is about 20 bucks more expensive than the 16 yo. Is the price difference worth it? Anyone have experience with one or both of them?

They are very different IMO....

The 12 is lighter on the palate than the 16 and is a bit spicier than the 16 as well....the 16 is somewhat sweeter.

The alcohol content is higher in the 12, 56% as opposed to 43% in the 16

The 12 benefits more by a drop or two of water than the 16 IMO.

I love both, but I give the edge to the 16.

[levrac68]

They are very different IMO....

The 12 is lighter on the palate than the 16 and is a bit spicier than the 16 as well....the 16 is somewhat sweeter.

The alcohol content is higher in the 12, 56% as opposed to 43% in the 16

The 12 benefits more by a drop or two of water than the 16 IMO.

I love both, but I give the edge to the 16.


I agree, and I also find the 16 to be a bit more smokey with a longer finish.:tu

[Islayphile]

They are very different IMO....

The 12 is lighter on the palate than the 16 and is a bit spicier than the 16 as well....the 16 is somewhat sweeter.

The alcohol content is higher in the 12, 56% as opposed to 43% in the 16

The 12 benefits more by a drop or two of water than the 16 IMO.

I love both, but I give the edge to the 16.

I agree, and I also find the 16 to be a bit more smokey with a longer finish.:tu

Which is why I love it so

:D

[levrac68]

Which is why I love it so

:D

Myself included. I think it's heads and tails over Laphroaig and JW Double Black. (as far as smokey types go)

[Islayphile]

Which is why I love it so

:D

Myself included. I think it's heads and tails over Laphroaig and JW Double Black. (as far as smokey types go)

Laphroaig is not what it used to be....the 10 I mean

That medicinal, medicated bandaid flavor has muted signifigantly over the past few years IMO....whether or not that was done on purpose to attract more folks I don't know.

The Qtr Cask tastes like the 10 used to.

Now when I want a change from the Lagavulin I grab Ardbeg!

Damn, I'm getting mighty thirsty

:D

[ironchefscott]

Glenroths, Highland park, Macallan, tend to be my favorites

[Bill86]

Alright I just bought a bottle of Laphroaig 10 and it is BEYOND wonderful. I understand this is a nice smoky, peaty Scotch, clearly I need more like this. Recommendations?

[RWhisenand]

I have really began enjoying Glenfiddich 15 YO Solera. I think it's as good or better then whiskeys costing 10 to 20 dollars more.


Maybe not quite as good as Oban, but at least as enjoyable as macallan.

[billybarue]

Lagavulin 16 - outright favorite. Followed by Ardbeg and Caol Ila.

Any Islay fans have an opinion on Finlaggan. Some stuff I've read speculate it is a young Lagavulin. For the price point at Trader Joes I always have a bottle around. I used to love Black Bottle (blend of all the Islays) but it has gotten much more expensive than it once was and, again, hard to find. I think Finlaggan is comparable.

I do like blends. Chivas 12 will always be my standby. It was my dad's drink. My brothers and I always kept a bottle of Royal Salute (21 yr Chivas) on hand for him, but he would drink it sparingly. He said in Vietnam GIs could get Royal Salute for $5/fifth - unbelievable. He had a bottle on his night stand the entire year he was there. 18 year Chivas is not much more than the 15 and worth the extra coin.

Dalmore, Highland Park 16, and Bunnahabhain are high on the list also and many others.

[Garbandz]

Islay has a nice dram in the Kilchoman,a fairly new distillery.

Clynelish has a lovely 14,try independent sources at cask proof for a real treat.

Glenfarclas 15 is really nice this season,rich and affordable.

Caperdonich is getting scarce,these will set you back a few bob,worth it.

Talisker is still unique,and some older casks are coming available.

The Arran has a bewildering range of finishes,port,barolo,sherry,who knows what else.

Look out for Daftmill,distilling for several years,but nothing released yet.See their site,it is interesting.

Longrow is still the most unusual dram,a product of the Springbank firm,itself a legendary company.Try the cask proof,you can thank me later............

[TNT009]

Ardbeg Alligator

[Jbailey]

Anything by Jura, Glenfidich and Glenfarclas.

[Islayphile]

Alright I just bought a bottle of Laphroaig 10 and it is BEYOND wonderful. I understand this is a nice smoky, peaty Scotch, clearly I need more like this. Recommendations?

Ardbeg & Lagavulin are what you're looking for

[Bill86]

Ardbeg & Lagavulin are what you're looking for

I was just looking at the Ardbeg site and according to their flavor wheel bottle chooser I'll need to grab a bottle of Ardbeg Uigeadail.

[ChicagoWhiteSox]

Had this recently at a friends place, took a pic to make sure I remember what it was because it was off the hook!
http://www.cigarasylum.com/vb/picture.php?albumid=596&pictureid=7105

[Tredegar]

Longmorn 15 year old. Unfortunately it has been discontinued. I am still on a quest to find a few more bottles before they disappear for good.

[Garbandz]

Longmorn can be amazing,find some Linkwood if you can,Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban is simply amazing,layers of flavor,and my best cost/dram winner........
Ardbeg Uigeadail is legendary..........

I have found that age is not always the way to judge a dram,a 10 or 12 year old can beat an older bottle in the value for cost battle. Excessive age or finishing can ruin good Scotch.

Do try higher proof bottlings though,just like bourbon,you get more flavor at higher proof.


Check this site.........www.whiskywhiskywhisky.com

[RHerrington]

Recently finished a bottle of the Cragganmore 12 year that made it's way to near the top of my list, and it's in the company of the Balvenie 17 year and Oban 14, and the Aberlour a'bunadh. Such great scotches, all of them. :banger

[jjmitchem]

I know this is a few years old but I just saw it and thought it was great:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MnSIp76CvUI&feature=youtube_gdata_player

[SteveH]

Gotta check out Lagavulin 12 cask strength - mighty fine.

That said, Kilchoman promises to be one of Islay's finest - I try to support them whenever I can :D

[JohnRogers]

The Dalmore: Grand Reserva, it gives me everything the Cigar Malt did at over half the price. I like with or without a stick.

[zappaFREAK]

Was a huge fan of JW blue till I discovered Oban
A third the price and just as good!!!

[JohnnyFlake]

Was a huge fan of JW blue till I discovered Oban
A third the price and just as good!!!

Which Oban are you referring to?

[Frodo]

I think there's only the 14 and the DE unless we're talking IBs.

[JohnnyFlake]

I think there's only the 14 and the DE unless we're talking IBs.

Yes, but which one is he referring to?

[deadrise]

hugh "hotreds" hooked me up with a shot of Rosebank Cask Strength Gordon & Macphail it was so much better then any scotch I have tried.
I have been drinking McClelland's single malt Isly and some cutty for blended scotch.
I have been on the scotch slippery slope and I think Hugh just gave me a push I am trying to find something like Rosebank Cask Strength Gordon & Macphail I hope in my local abc.

any suggestions?

[Ogre]

I picked up some Glenrothes 1994 on my honeymoon cruise. It is a great lite scotch, easy on the palate. It has little peat or smokey flavor, but a stronger fruit and spice taste on the tongue. This would be a good summer scotch or I would give it to a beginner as it is not overpowering.

[Periferius]

Midleton, aah sorry that's Irish. oops!

[cobra03]

Just got a bottle of Bruichladdich Rocks for Christmas. Sounds like its in my wheel house. Havent tried it yet maybe i'll break it open later. Anyone had it before?

[hammondc]

Just got a bottle of Bruichladdich Rocks for Christmas. Sounds like its in my wheel house. Havent tried it yet maybe i'll break it open later. Anyone had it before?

Funny you mention this. I was coming in here to comment on Bruichladdich. I had some of their Port Charlotte Peat Project over Christmas and was wanting to get everyone's opinion/comment on Bruichladdich and Islay malts in general. Until now, I have only been drinking Speyside- Balvenie, Glenfiddich, Macallen.

[omowasu]

Just got a bottle of Bruichladdich Rocks for Christmas. Sounds like its in my wheel house. Havent tried it yet maybe i'll break it open later. Anyone had it before?

Bruichladdich Rocks is simply wonderful. Because it is unpeated and not chill filtered, the flavor profile is very different than other Islays. The lack of peating results in a LOT less smoky flavors and replaces them with really interesting cereal, caramel, and tangy notes on the start and a very unique nutty, salty, fruity finish. I just finished a bottle, and it shall be replaced in very short order. Its a one of a kind. I like it best on a couple ice cubes, but to each his own.

Dont get me wrong, I am a fan of smoky and medicinal Scotch flavors, some of my favorites are Ardbeg and Laphroaig... Rocks opened my palate to other flavors that may have faded into the background with other smokier single malts.

Highly recommended. And relatively cheap!

[cobra03]

Bruichladdich Rocks is simply wonderful. Because it is unpeated and not chill filtered, the flavor profile is very different than other Islays. The lack of peating results in a LOT less smoky flavors and replaces them with really interesting cereal, caramel, and tangy notes on the start and a very unique nutty, salty, fruity finish. I just finished a bottle, and it shall be replaced in very short order. Its a one of a kind. I like it best on a couple ice cubes, but to each his own.

Dont get me wrong, I am a fan of smoky and medicinal Scotch flavors, some of my favorites are Ardbeg and Laphroaig... Rocks opened my palate to other flavors that may have faded into the background with other smokier single malts.

Highly recommended. And relatively cheap!

Thats good to hear. Im not a huge fan of really smokey scotch myself kinda reminds me of burt tires but i will try anything. I tend to lean more towards a slightly sweeter scotch. I havent had a chance to try it yet. Im gonna go try to break it open tomorrow if the opportunity presents itself.

[MACS]

2 of my favorites are Macallan 12 and Balvenie Doublewood. Aberlour 16 is another.

I also enjoy Lagavulin 16, but I have to be in the mood for that peat bomb.

[stevcatter]

My favorite scotch is 18 years old Dewars whisky.

[gogotron]

Another vote for Macallan 12 and Oban 14, both are great neat or on the rocks and reasonable enough to enjoy frequently.

[dgold21]

I'm out of whiskey, need to try a couple new bottles...going to get the Aberlour A'bunadh, and was thinking about the Balvenie Doublewood 17yr...anyone try that?

[kansashat]

Probably my all time fave was a 33 y.o. Springbank. Second on the list would be a 27 y.o. Tamnvulin-Glenlivet single barrel that I still have.

Wow! I had a waiter at Bern's Steak House in Tampa suggest the 33 yr old Springbank to me about 15 yrs ago. It was $50 an ounce, but still remains the best single malt I've tried. For the record, it was a corporate spiff trip, & I didn't pay for it personally...thank God. LOL

[equetefue]

Macallan 12 for me. Very smooth

[mikesr1963]

I don't drink a lot of scotch. So when I get an itch for it I'll buy 4 or 5 of the tiny bottle of JW Black and toss them in the freezer.

[big pete]

Oban 18 right now

[CigarNut]

Two new favs: Johnny Walker King George V Edition and Glenmorangie Signet.

[Adriftpanda]

I'm not a big drinker but when I do drink, I prefer scotch and I blame it all on PETE!

Macallan 18
Laphroaig 10
Glenlivet 15

[lukem]

Not sure I have a favorite yet as that's something I just picked up recently as well. Right now I've got:

Macallen 15
Glenfiddich 18
Laphoroaig 10

I'm leaning toward the non-peaty scotch.

[nutcracker]

I have a Caol Ila from SMWS - 17 year old - just phenomenal

Go go single malts:
Laphroiag 10
Highland Park 18

El cheapo: Black Grouse

But then I do have a lot of scotch......

[nutcracker]

hugh "hotreds" hooked me up with a shot of Rosebank Cask Strength Gordon & Macphail it was so much better then any scotch I have tried.
I have been drinking McClelland's single malt Isly and some cutty for blended scotch.
I have been on the scotch slippery slope and I think Hugh just gave me a push I am trying to find something like Rosebank Cask Strength Gordon & Macphail I hope in my local abc.

any suggestions?

Rosebank (demolished) is a typical lowland whisky - so a Glenkinchie or Auchentoshan will mimic the style. The Auchie Virgin Cask is a nice start for folks used to Bourbon...