The Great Whisky (Whiskey) Thread!

[Ming the Merciless]

***

If this already exists, feel free to put a link to the proper thread...I searched and found a bourbon thread but alas , no whiskey thread which makes me think my search-fu failed....

But, in case there is not already a whiskey thread:

This thread shall be dedicated to all types of Whiskey.

I will try to make some sort of index up here, as more information is added.

*This is a work in progress...

Whisky / Whiskey
"A type of distilled alcoholic beverage made from fermented grain mash"
Each of the subcategories will be defined and include recommendations at different rough price points. Please feel free to post up a recommendation and I will try to get a rough price estimate....

Scotch

Map of Scotch Regions

http://www.acespirits.com/lib/yhst-43357575186341/ey-region-map.jpg
There are very strict rules as to which whiskies can be called Scotch. To be called scotch firstly and foremost, the whisky must be made in Scotland. Second, it must be made according to a manner prescribed in detail, by Scottish law. For more see here: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scotch_whisky

Single Malt Scotch

To be a "single malt scotch" the whisky must be a "scotch" (duh!) and ALSO be made of ' only water & malted barley at a SINGLE distillery via batch distillation' (see here: LINK (http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=4&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0CCsQFjAD&url=http%3A%2F%2Fen.wikipedia.org%2Fwiki%2FSingle_malt_Scotch&ei=lgwaVPDCF8r0iQK5tIGICQ&usg=AFQjCNEc2MSrQxWJw3X4B6uxrOLtEJGhAA&sig2=RUrWPookET8xgSnULr9YWQ))

Blended Scotch

Must be a scotch (see above)..but: Most whisky is blended. It is easier and cheaper to make better tasting whisky than if you attempt the difficult talk of making a single malt. Master blenders do tastings and come up with blends of many different whiskys to achieve a result that they feel is desirable.



Bourbon

Bourbon whiskey is a type of American whiskey: a barrel-aged distilled spirit made primarily from corn. The name is ultimately derived from the French Bourbon dynasty, although it is disputed whether Bourbon County in Kentucky or Bourbon Street in New Orleans inspired the whiskey's name.[1] Bourbon has been distilled since the 18th century.[2] The use of the term "Bourbon" for the whiskey has been traced to the 1820s, and the term began to be used consistently in Kentucky in the 1870s.[1] While bourbon may be made anywhere in the United States, it is strongly associated with the American South in general, and with Kentucky in particular. As of 2014, the distillers' wholesale market revenue for bourbon sold within the U.S. is about $2.7 billion, and bourbon makes up about two-thirds of the $1.6 billion of U.S. exports of distilled spirits.[3][4] (Wikipedia)


American Rye Whisky

In the United States (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_States), "rye whiskey" is, by law, made from a mash (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mashing) of at least 51 percent rye. (The other ingredients of the mash are usually corn (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maize) and malted barley (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barley).) It is distilled (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Distilled) to no more than 160 U.S. proof (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/U.S._proof) (80% abv (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alcohol_by_volume)), and aged (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aging_barrel) in charred, new oak (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oak) barrels (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barrel). The whiskey must be put into such barrels at not more than 125 proof (62.5% abv). Rye whiskey that has been so aged for at least two years and has not been blended (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Blended_whiskey) with other spirits may be further designated as "straight (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Straight_whiskey)", as in "straight rye whiskey".<sup id="cite_ref-1" class="reference">[1] (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rye_whiskey#cite_note-1)


Irish Whiskey

</sup><sup id="cite_ref-1" class="reference"></sup>Most Irish pot still (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pot_still) whiskey is distilled (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Distillation) thrice, while most (but not all) Scotch whisky (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scotch_whisky) is distilled twice. Peat (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peat) is rarely used in the malting (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malt) process, so that Irish whiskey has a smoother finish as opposed to the smoky, earthy overtones common to some Scotches. There are notable exceptions to these rules in both countries! (Some Irish whiskeys use peat, many Scotches do not)

Japanese Whiskey


Japanese Whiskey production first began around 1870. They started out by trying to emulate Scotch Whisky. Areas of Hokkaido are known to have climates similar to Scotland, and the difficulties of single malt production make it such that mainly Japanese whisky is blended.

[Ming the Merciless]

I really REALLY like certain whiskeys and I cant stand others...I never really knew how much I liked whiskey until I found two things:

1) The right kind of whiskey for my tastes

2) The right way to drink it


For me, I like lighter single-malt Scotches - generally of the "Speyside" region....

My go-to Is Glenlivet 12 year old (cheap and decent) but I like to splurge on 18/21 on occasion.

I would love to branch out and try more Speysides to get a couple more 'daily drivers' in my stable...


Oh also, I find that I like mine on the rocks with just a TINY bit of water.

What say you??

How do you like your whisky? WHat are your favorites?

[Ming the Merciless]

SPeyside Scotch:

http://www.masterofmalt.com/region/speyside-whisky/

Speyside whiskies are among Scotland’s lightest, sweetest single malts. Age often brings a bit more body and the profusion of heavily sherried whiskies from the region exhibit superb power. Though a comparatively small appellation, Speyside has, by some distance, the vast majority of Scotch whisky distilleries. Indeed there are eighty-four working distilleries, including the world’s best-sellers: The Glenlivet, Glenfiddich, Glen Grant and The Macallan.



http://www.acespirits.com/lib/yhst-43357575186341/ey-region-map.jpg

[J Diddy]

I've found that the brand only helps the taste on the first 2 cups. After that I don't give a shit if it's high dollar or always save.

[Ming the Merciless]

I've found that the brand only helps the taste on the first 2 cups. After that I don't give a shit if it's high dollar or always save.

That could very well be true... a full 16 oz of of good whiskey, and then I probably wouldnt care all that much what I drank after...

But I cannot stand the really smokey or 'peaty' Scotches like some of the Highlands....maybe I just havent found the right ones, but I don't think i could pound 16 oz of that.

[Marcellus]

I've found that the brand only helps the taste on the first 2 cups. After that I don't give a shit if it's high dollar or always save.

Its always a good idea to have 2 bottles around. Start with the good stuff, get a buzz then switch to cheaper.

If the gap is too big its hard to bridge.

[BWillie]

I REALLY wish I liked scotch, or any whiskey whatsoever. But, it is the most sickening alcoholic drink out there. When I drink it, even mixed with coke, I get an immediate gag reflex. It's just terrible. I can down vodka, tequila, no problem. Why am I so unmanly?

I honestly think the taste of whiskey is coveted because gunslingers and all the cool cats back in the wild wild west drank it, so, people just thought it was cool to continue to drink it. But now that culture isn't really coveted, so I don't really have a good answer as to why whiskey is popular.

[MotherfuckerJones]

I usually start with the cheap stuff and then go to my sipping whiskeys

[Ming the Merciless]

I REALLY wish I liked scotch, or any whiskey whatsoever. But, it is the most sickening alcoholic drink out there. When I drink it, even mixed with coke, I get an immediate gag reflex. It's just terrible. I can down vodka, tequila, no problem. Why am I so unmanly?

I honestly think the taste of whiskey is coveted because gunslingers and all the cool cats back in the wild wild west drank it, so, people just thought it was cool to continue to drink it. But now that culture isn't really coveted, so I don't really have a good answer as to why whiskey is popular.


Thats EXACTLY how I was until I tried a glenlivet 18 on the rocks with a little water added...and then I suddenly just "got it"

That would be my suggestion....give a couple of lighter ones a try , on the rocks with like a tablespoon maybe of pure water added

[NewChief]

I used to love scotch, but I've become a bourbon drinker.

As for scotches, I like the Islays. I've realized that I want my booze to slap me in the face. A lot of the highland/speyside scotches are way too subtle for me.

In all honesty, a lot of the more high priced bourbons are the same way. Four Roses is too sweet and subtle. Some of the Woodford is the same way. I like to taste what I'm drinking.

My current nightly drinker is Evan Williams 1783.

[Ming the Merciless]

As for scotches, I like the Islays. I've realized that I want my booze to slap me in the face.

Hmmm Youll have to recommend me an Islay to work my way up to...

Every Islay I have tasted (not many, admittedly) tastes like a combination of lighter fluid and liquid smoke

[NewChief]

Hmmm Youll have to recommend me an Islay to work my way up to...

Every Islay I have tasted (not many, admittedly) tastes like a combination of lighter fluid and liquid smoke

That's pretty much the flavor. Laphroig is the classic and most popular. They're usually described as very medicinal, smokey, and peaty.

[Ming the Merciless]

That's pretty much the flavor. Laphroig is the classic and most popular. They're usually described as very medicinal, smokey, and peaty.

hmm maybe ill try again with a bit more water

[kysirsoze]

Islay. All day.

[kysirsoze]

Of course I also like very hoppy beer. I think the preferences are related.

[Ming the Merciless]

Of course I also like very hoppy beer. I think the preferences are related.

Hmm well this is anecdotal....but I love hoppy beer...and I cant stand peat (so far)....

I live in the heart of hoppy beer land.......surround by yummy hoppy beers....

I'll have to give Islays more of a chance, but I am skeptical....

[bdj23]

Templeton Rye

Last time I bought a bottle a drank 4/5th of it on the rocks that night.

Simply delicious.

[Bwana]

I'm more of a craft beer guy but when I do partake is usually JWBL.

http://www.apetogentleman.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/New-Johnnie-Walker-Blue1.jpg

[NewChief]

hmm maybe ill try again with a bit more water

I wouldn't add water. Seriously (unless you're drinking neat and just adding a couple of drops to wake it up).

Temper the speed at which you drink it. Slow. Slow. Slow. Tiny sips. Be in the right frame of mind and place for drinking it (I suggest a table with one other person in a darkly lit bar/restaurant perhaps after a nice, intimate dinner or sitting at home next to a fireplace with a book). One drink, when you first start drinking islay scotches, might take you 30 minutes to an hour to drink (I wish they still did for me). They're intense and can create an atmosphere unto themselves.

Once you acquire the taste, though... it's dangerous.

[kysirsoze]

Templeton Rye

Last time I bought a bottle a drank 4/5th of it on the rocks that night.

Simply delicious.

OOOh. Yes. Excellent.

[Ming the Merciless]

I'm more of a craft beer guy but when I do partake is usually JWBL.



I really like JWBL too, its a great blend.

Heck I will even drink the lesser JWs......love em.

If you haven't tried Glenlivet 18/21 I bet you would like them

[Ming the Merciless]

I wouldn't add water. Seriously (unless you're drinking neat and just adding a couple of drops to wake it up).

Temper the speed at which you drink it. Slow. Slow. Slow. Tiny sips. Be in the right frame of mind and place for drinking it (I suggest a table with one other person in a darkly lit bar/restaurant perhaps after a nice, intimate dinner or sitting at home next to a fireplace with a book). One drink, when you first start drinking islay scotches, might take you 30 minutes to an hour to drink (I wish they still did for me). They're intense and can create an atmosphere unto themselves.

Once you acquire the taste, though... it's dangerous.


That could be a commercial.

I feel like i need to go now, and do this.

[Bwana]

I really like JWBL too, its a great blend.

Heck I will even drink the lesser JWs......love em.

If you haven't tried Glenlivet 18/21 I bet you would like them

Dude seriously a bottle would last me 5 years but I may pick up a bottle for a good customer of mine to try. :thumb:

[Rasputin]

<iframe width="640" height="390" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/T_d_VJbYAfc" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[Ming the Merciless]

Dude seriously a bottle would last me 5 years but I may pick up a bottle for a good customer of mine to try. :thumb:

Nice tactic!!!!

That sure would win me over!

[saphojunkie]

Macallan is the scotch of scotches.

Out west, the cheapest place to get it is at Trader Joe's. it's $34.99 for the Macallan 10 year (fine oak). I've found the 12 year (sherry casks) at CVS for $42.99 which is probably 15-20 dollars cheaper than anywhere else.

The best whiskeys I've had recently are Noah's Mill (kentucky bourbon), Westward Bourbon (Portland, OR), and Strannahan's (CO whiskey).

Stranahan's is THE. SHIT. PERIOD.

It's floral, complex, with a citrus finish that just cascades throughout your palate. I cannot recommend it enough.

The best thing to start doing is checking out if bars around town have a whiskey flight. After that, find the smallest town you can. Go to the diviest bar you can. And start ordering them with three ice cubes. You'll find your taste will adjust really quickly.

I like Scotch a lot, but I do prefer bourbons. To me, it isn't a one-or-the-other. I'm bi-whiskual.

[NewChief]

Dude seriously a bottle would last me 5 years but I may pick up a bottle for a good customer of mine to try. :thumb:

My father-in-law is on the Johnny Walker Platinum lately. He'll pour me a finger or two before he heads off to bed.

The other night we spent the night at their house. When we woke up and were having breakfast I said, "Paul. I hope you don't mind, but I finished off the Johnny Walker last night after you went to bed."

I think he had a small heart attack.

[saphojunkie]

I wouldn't add water. Seriously (unless you're drinking neat and just adding a couple of drops to wake it up).

Temper the speed at which you drink it. Slow. Slow. Slow. Tiny sips. Be in the right frame of mind and place for drinking it (I suggest a table with one other person in a darkly lit bar/restaurant perhaps after a nice, intimate dinner or sitting at home next to a fireplace with a book). One drink, when you first start drinking islay scotches, might take you 30 minutes to an hour to drink (I wish they still did for me). They're intense and can create an atmosphere unto themselves.

Once you acquire the taste, though... it's dangerous.

You gotta work up to the peat, though. You can't go zero-to-Laphroaig.

[srvy]

Templeton Rye

Last time I bought a bottle a drank 4/5th of it on the rocks that night.

Simply delicious.

That is some good stuff for a rye. My problem it is so limited and hard to find. You feel like an old prospector striking gold when you find a place that got its hands on some.

[NewChief]

You gotta work up to the peat, though. You can't go zero-to-Laphroaig.

Yeah, I tried scotch once at a social gathering with my Texas socialite ex-girlfriend's family, and I ended up discretely tossing it down the drain (which I felt very bad about when I found out the cost).

I tried it again with same ex-girlfriend on a really nice date night at a great restaurant as we waited on our food, and I fell in love with Laphroig. It just had a whole mystique to it (we were dirty hippies at that time, and I think I felt like a cultured badass drinking it). Anyway, it stuck and became my drink of choice for years afterward.

[saphojunkie]

That is some good stuff for a rye. My problem it is so limited and hard to find. You feel like an old prospector striking gold when you find a place that got its hands on some.

Seriously? I feel like that's at literally every liquor store I go to.

I don't do ryes straight. Not only is the grain itself so potent, but the whiskey tends to be 90 proof or higher. It's for this reason that I only use Ryes in my old fashioneds and manhattans.

oh, and while we're at it... let me turn you onto something AMAZING.

barrel-aging cocktails.

You buy a barrel, such as... this one:

http://redheadoakbarrels.com/aging-barrel-store/oak-aging-barrels/

http://redheadoakbarrels.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/oak-barrel-for-aging-whiskey-rum-tequila-scotch-300x300.jpg

You mix up your cocktail (vieux carre, manhattan, old fashioned). You fill the charred new oak. You wait five weeks. You pour it into a bottle.

And you will never be able to drink it freshly mixed again. It's magic. But I use the higher alcohol ryes because aging cocktails not only smooths flavor out, it also reduces the ABV, so I still want my cocktails to have some punch.

[srvy]

I used to love scotch, but I've become a bourbon drinker.

As for scotches, I like the Islays. I've realized that I want my booze to slap me in the face. A lot of the highland/speyside scotches are way too subtle for me.

In all honesty, a lot of the more high priced bourbons are the same way. Four Roses is too sweet and subtle. Some of the Woodford is the same way. I like to taste what I'm drinking.

My current nightly drinker is Evan Williams 1783.

You and I see eye to eye on Bourbons and I have pretty much made Evan Williams 1783 my daily drinker over Buffalo Trace.

I might add that a few drop of water in the 1783 really opens it up like you stated in latter posts. If you haven't tried give it a go It really is quiet amazing.

[srvy]

I am not a big scotch drinker but a good friend is and have partaken from his personal stash many a time.

This one is a favorite for me.
http://cdn.gauntleys.com/productimages/800/spirits/bunnahabhain-12-46.3.jpg

[Rasputin]

If I ever go back to drinking again it is strait to Scotch. I am a Scotchaholic.

[cdcox]

When I drink it, even mixed with coke,

You are doing it wrong.

[srvy]

The Flavor Map
Its a pretty good guide for the taste you are seeking.
http://silouanthompson.net/images/Single-Malt-Scotch-Whisky-Flavour-Map.jpg

[Ming the Merciless]

nice , thanks!

[bdj23]

That is some good stuff for a rye. My problem it is so limited and hard to find. You feel like an old prospector striking gold when you find a place that got its hands on some.

Really? I know of a few liquor stores in Lawrence that seemingly always have it in stock.

Saw a bottle for $39.99 on Sunday.

[Ming the Merciless]

On that chart, I think I prefer delicate yet rich....

Glenlivet 18 is my #1 right now...

Funny the Bunnahabhain 12 is right there too, but I thouight it was an Islay & assumed it would be smoky....That might be my next 'cheap' bottle

[Marcellus]

You gotta work up to the peat, though. You can't go zero-to-Laphroaig.

I had started drinking scotch doing the Glenlivet thing for a while drinking the 15 year on occasion and enjoying it and then my brother had me taste some Laphroaig and I asked him what the fuck was that? Medicine?

Then I gained a taste for peaty smokey stuff and the other stuff was too tame.

I was able to get a couple Dalwhinnie 15 for $30 a bottle a few years ago, that was a steal even though its a bit milder.

Love scotch, and pick up JWB at Sam's for $30. Thats a good deal.

Had some Templeton Rye last week, Sams is carrying that now. It wasn't bad but I prefer Scotch.

[Marcellus]

Really? I know of a few liquor stores in Lawrence that seemingly always have it in stock.

Saw a bottle for $39.99 on Sunday.

Sams Club has it for around $30.

[Sensual Lardass]

Macallan 18 is my scotch of choice and Four Roses is who I turn to when I want a good bourbon.

[Bwana]

My father-in-law is on the Johnny Walker Platinum lately. He'll pour me a finger or two before he heads off to bed.

The other night we spent the night at their house. When we woke up and were having breakfast I said, "Paul. I hope you don't mind, but I finished off the Johnny Walker last night after you went to bed."

I think he had a small heart attack.

Nice LMAO

[Bwana]

We need BigOlChieffan to chime in on this, that guy knows his stuff.

[prhom]

Big fan of scotch, but can't drink bourbon the same way. Love the really peaty scotches, but the wife doesn't like it when I drink them. Something about it smelling like I've been chewing on tree bark all night.

[Johnny Vegas]

bourbon all day. really loving Jeffersons Reserve.

[bdj23]

I try to stay away from Bourbon, it puts me in weird, fighty-type of mood.

With that being said, I do enjoy a glass of Markers from time to time.

[cdcox]

I've tried and loved all of the scotches on the smokey end of the spectrum except Ardbeg and the Caol ila. Love the peat.

[Indian Chief]

I never post, just lurk, but I felt inspired to chime in on this one. I acquired a taste for Scotch a few years back and my wallet certainly regrets it. But I have sampled quite a few different offerings and have a decently well rounded bit of knowledge.

Based on what you've said about your tastes, I would recommend two in particular. One is the Balvenie 12 DoubleWood, and the other is Cragganmore 12. Both are Speysides with a rich flavor. I personally find the DoubleWood to be the best Balvenie and that includes their much more expensive offerings.

Personally, I love Islay whiskeys. I even go nuts for Octomore which I do not recommend unless you really want a heavy peat flavor. One that I would recommend you try is Bruichladdich's Laddie Ten. It has a great flavor profile, but not an overwhelming smoke or peat flavor. It would be the one I would suggest to anyone wanting to try an Islay, but who is on the fence about that style. Another choice in the same boat is Talisker's Amoroso Cask Distillers Edition. The only issue is the Talisker is about $80+ a bottle (by me -- NJ) and the Laddie Ten can be had for under $50 (think I paid $46 last time).

As far as something more American, High West did a small batch distillation called Campfire. It is a blend of rye, bourbon, and an Islay. Sounds bizarre, at least I thought so when I read the label, but it is absolutely delicious.

This is probably one of the few topics I love to talk about because there is so much out there and I'm always interested in trying something new.

The following is a list of some other Scotches (not already mentioned) that I stock regularly at home. Feel free to ask questions or make suggestions if you think I might like something else.

Ardmore Traditional
Bruichladdich Port Charlotte
Caol Ila 12 year
Dalmore 12 year
Dalmore 15 year
Lagavulin 12 year DE
Lagavulin 16 Year
Laphroaig 10 year
Laphroaig Quarter Cask
Oban 14 Year
Talisker Storm

Edit: That was ridiculously long for a first post. Apologies.

[cdcox]

I never post, just lurk, but I felt inspired to chime in on this one. I acquired a taste for Scotch a few years back and my wallet certainly regrets it. But I have sampled quite a few different offerings and have a decently well rounded bit of knowledge.

Based on what you've said about your tastes, I would recommend two in particular. One is the Balvenie 12 DoubleWood, and the other is Cragganmore 12. Both are Speysides with a rich flavor. I personally find the DoubleWood to be the best Balvenie and that includes their much more expensive offerings.

Personally, I love Islay whiskeys. I even go nuts for Octomore which I do not recommend unless you really want a heavy peat flavor. One that I would recommend you try is Bruichladdich's Laddie Ten. It has a great flavor profile, but not an overwhelming smoke or peat flavor. It would be the one I would suggest to anyone wanting to try an Islay, but who is on the fence about that style. Another choice in the same boat is Talisker's Amoroso Cask Distillers Edition. The only issue is the Talisker is about $80+ a bottle (by me -- NJ) and the Laddie Ten can be had for under $50 (think I paid $46 last time).

As far as something more American, High West did a small batch distillation called Campfire. It is a blend of rye, bourbon, and an Islay. Sounds bizarre, at least I thought so when I read the label, but it is absolutely delicious.

This is probably one of the few topics I love to talk about because there is so much out there and I'm always interested in trying something new.

The following is a list of some other Scotches (not already mentioned) that I stock regularly at home. Feel free to ask questions or make suggestions if you think I might like something else.

Ardmore Traditional
Bruichladdich Port Charlotte
Caol Ila 12 year
Dalmore 12 year
Dalmore 15 year
Lagavulin 12 year DE
Lagavulin 16 Year
Laphroaig 10 year
Laphroaig Quarter Cask
Oban 14 Year
Talisker Storm

Edit: That was ridiculously long for a first post. Apologies.

I should come over to your house and we can have a tasting. I have a bottle of Clan McGregor and some Dewars that I can bring. PM me.

[MOhillbilly]

I try to stay away from Bourbon, it puts me in weird, fighty-type of mood.

With that being said, I do enjoy a glass of Markers from time to time.

Train whistle roller coaster
Is the best part of whiskey
I love it

[MOhillbilly]

I power bombed a fool into oblivion after three bottle of jack Daniels back when.

Good times.

[Sorce]

I tend to flip back and forth between Glenlivet and Chivas. I like burbon and a good crown royal as well. I'm pretty much an exclusive whiskey drinker. I'll have other mixed drinks from time to time but a good whiskey on the rocks is what I prefer. That and the occasional manhattan.

I also love a good cigar with my scotch. Not sure how many cigar smokers we have on here but I feel like the two pair nicely.

[Ming the Merciless]

Holy shit, thanks every one!


I really appreciate the tips....I'm going to use your posts as a textbook....I wanna buy the 1st round to show my appreciation. Hopefully someday...

@indian chief: wow! Dude...... Thanks for tips. I will take them to heart.

[BigOlChiefsfan]

I like Scotch - I'm mostly a bourbon man these days. I like Talisker & Highland Park and any of the 'rarer' J Walker blends if you're buying but it doesn't have to be a single malt to suit me, I love JW Black and my more or less daily pour is the 'Black Bottle' - an Islay blend that's worth looking for.
I learned to drink Scotch back in the 70's when blends were about all the bartender had on hand. My old favorite from those days was Teacher's Highland Cream. It's gone thru a few changes since then (all those 'single malts' used to be blended up into these good older blends, until they got to be too desirable and sold on their own - the old blends lost some magic, I'm sorry to say).
But if you're looking to make my favorite Scotch cocktail, try a big pour of Teacher's or your fave w/a smaller pour of Drambuie (1 part Drambuie to 3 parts scotch) This is a Rusty Nail, one of Humphrey Bogart's favorites - and mine. It's always tied up w/'end of a hunting day' in my mind - once the guns are cleaned and put away, you pour a Rusty Nail.

If you like a Manhattan, make one w/blended scotch instead of bourbon for a Rob Roy, if my memory serves (my memory sucks these days)

If you'd like to try a good alternative to Scotch or Bourbon - try a glass of good Irish whiskey. I like Bushmill's 'Black label' - a great, older blend. There are fancier bottles, but you'll never go wrong w/the 'Black Bush'.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_Bottle

http://http://www.teacherswhisky.com/default.aspx?ReturnURL=/our-whisky/teachers-highland-cream/default.aspx (http://www.teacherswhisky.com/default.aspx?ReturnURL=/our-whisky/teachers-highland-cream/default.aspx)

http://www.bushmills.com/

[Graystoke]

That is some good stuff for a rye. My problem it is so limited and hard to find. You feel like an old prospector striking gold when you find a place that got its hands on some.

God, come to Iowa and the shit is everywhere.
I used to like Templeton, but that stuff gives me Whiskey face.
Now the only thing I can drink is Bourbon and it must be Cedar Ridge.

[Steron]

This thread makes me feel like I have to turn in my man-card. Liquor gives me a sharp pain in the pit of my stomach that feels like somebody is driving a nail through my gut. The only alcohol I can tolerate pain-free any more is the lightest of beers.

[srvy]

God, come to Iowa and the shit is everywhere.
I used to like Templeton, but that stuff gives me Whiskey face.
Now the only thing I can drink is Bourbon and it must be Cedar Ridge.

Isn't the distillery still in Iowa? Im not a huge fan of Rye Whiskey but that one is good. If you want rye whiskey face get ya some Old Grand Dad 100 proof.

[siberian khatru]

I acquired a taste for Scotch a few years back and my wallet certainly regrets it.

Ditto. Started drinking single malts around 2000, but they have become very expensive. I now have to save up for a special bottle once or twice a year and drink them infrequently to make them last longer.

In the past 3-4 years I've switched to bourbon as my everyday pour with my cigars, as they are one-fourth to one-half the price of single malts. They're not as complex as most of my single malts, but they're good and smooth and go well with the smokes.

[KCTitus]

When I was young, an older friend of mine once told me that if you manage to get a taste for Scotch, you have a drinking problem. Why I took that to heart was the fact that this guy was full blown alchy...

At any rate, it's only been in the last 10 years or so I have really started to enjoy Bourbon's and Scotches, with Scotches coming in the last few years. One thing I have noticed is that over the last few years I can really tell the differences between the two. Whereas, when I was young couldnt even get the glass under my nose.

I'd say I'm partial to bourbon's at the moment if not for the fact that scotch does tend to get pricey. Anything out of the Buffalo Trace distillery and I'm good. My first taste of bourbon, was Pappy...it was so smooth it converted me from a gin/vodka exclusive drinker.

[Bwana]

I like Scotch - I'm mostly a bourbon man these days. I like Talisker & Highland Park and any of the 'rarer' J Walker blends if you're buying but it doesn't have to be a single malt to suit me, I love JW Black and my more or less daily pour is the 'Black Bottle' - an Islay blend that's worth looking for.
I learned to drink Scotch back in the 70's when blends were about all the bartender had on hand. My old favorite from those days was Teacher's Highland Cream. It's gone thru a few changes since then (all those 'single malts' used to be blended up into these good older blends, until they got to be too desirable and sold on their own - the old blends lost some magic, I'm sorry to say).
But if you're looking to make my favorite Scotch cocktail, try a big pour of Teacher's or your fave w/a smaller pour of Drambuie (1 part Drambuie to 3 parts scotch) This is a Rusty Nail, one of Humphrey Bogart's favorites - and mine. It's always tied up w/'end of a hunting day' in my mind - once the guns are cleaned and put away, you pour a Rusty Nail.

If you like a Manhattan, make one w/blended scotch instead of bourbon for a Rob Roy, if my memory serves (my memory sucks these days)

If you'd like to try a good alternative to Scotch or Bourbon - try a glass of good Irish whiskey. I like Bushmill's 'Black label' - a great, older blend. There are fancier bottles, but you'll never go wrong w/the 'Black Bush'.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_Bottle

http://http://www.teacherswhisky.com/default.aspx?ReturnURL=/our-whisky/teachers-highland-cream/default.aspx (http://www.teacherswhisky.com/default.aspx?ReturnURL=/our-whisky/teachers-highland-cream/default.aspx)

http://www.bushmills.com/

I knew you would have some quality input, well played sir.

[Aspengc8]

Tomatin 15yr and Balvenie Carribean Cask. Both under $60 and very good.

[Toadkiller]

I love Lagavulin. Love how the peat/smoke kicks you in the nuts.
Also give Dry Fly a try, out of Washington, lovely stuff.

[Reaper16]

I drink a fair amount of bourbon, usually sticking to bottles that offer a great quality-to-price ratio, like Eagle Rare or Four Roses Small Batch. I splurge in bars on special occasions; a neighborhood bar right near me in Philly has an incredibly deep bourbon selection (including various Pappys, Willets, and A.H. Hirsch) that will steal away my paycheck if I let it.

I have not explored Scotch nearly to the extent that I want to someday. I need a Scotch-loving friend to introduce me to some brands at his cost, heh. I do enjoy peaty-ass Laphroaig, but I might like less-peaty regions better than Islay. Won't know until I try.

[Ming the Merciless]

I have not explored Scotch nearly to the extent that I want to someday. I need a Scotch-loving friend to introduce me to some brands at his cost, heh. I do enjoy peaty-ass Laphroaig, but I might like less-peaty regions better than Islay. Won't know until I try.

I whole heartedly recommend Glenlivet 12 as a very inexpensive non-peaty 'test driver' (speyside single-malt)

You should be able to get a bottle for less than 40..maybe 30ish?

Then the 15 or 18 I think are going to be more rich and still not peaty....

I have seen really good deals on 15 at 'beverages and more' and places like that.... (maybe 40-50ish?)

I think the 18 should be able to be had for around 60-65 if you catch some kind of deal, maybe 75ish regular price (to me it is wonderful!)

But for the bang for the buck I really like the 12 (on the rocks) ...I havent found anything I like better (in that low $30 range) but there are some close ones...

[Marcellus]

Ardmore Traditional
Bruichladdich Port Charlotte
Caol Ila 12 year
Dalmore 12 year
Dalmore 15 year
Lagavulin 12 year DE
Lagavulin 16 Year
Laphroaig 10 year
Laphroaig Quarter Cask
Oban 14 Year
Talisker Storm

Edit: That was ridiculously long for a first post. Apologies.

I love me some Lagavulin.

[Archie F. Swin]

Im a craft beer enthusiast. Ive yet to develop a palate for spirits. Perhaps once a year ill do boilermakers. For that it's Jameson's.

[Ming the Merciless]

Im a craft beer enthusiast. Ive yet to develop a palate for spirits. Perhaps once a year ill do boilermakers. For that it's Jameson's.

Actually jamesons is a very enjoyable spirit on its own....on the rocks after it melts a little...I could sip one right now ..good stuff

8-)

Its just that for around the same price you can get get a little better IMO (aforementioned glenlivet 12 being better IMO....)

Next time you go for some Jamesons, try a glenlivet 12...and this is coming from a guy who is like 50% Irish

[Archie F. Swin]

Actually jamesons is a very enjoyable spirit on its own....on the rocks after it melts a little...I could sip one right now ..good stuff

8-)

Its just that for around the same price you can get get a little better IMO (aforementioned glenlivet 12 being better IMO....)

Next time you go for some Jamesons, try a glenlivet 12...and this is coming from a guy who is like 50% Irish
Noted.

[Ming the Merciless]

Also I am hoping to edit the OP so we can get some other recommendations at the different price points..

I'm sure theres lots of $30 options, and dont get me wrong...I will drink Jameson and smile

[bdj23]

Actually jamesons is a very enjoyable spirit on its own....on the rocks after it melts a little...I could sip one right now ..good stuff

8-)

Its just that for around the same price you can get get a little better IMO (aforementioned glenlivet 12 being better IMO....)

Next time you go for some Jamesons, try a glenlivet 12...and this is coming from a guy who is like 50% Irish

My brother got my a bottle of Jameson 18 year for Christmas a few years ago.

We drank the entire bottle that evening. Great stuff.

[Graystoke]

Isn't the distillery still in Iowa? Im not a huge fan of Rye Whiskey but that one is good. If you want rye whiskey face get ya some Old Grand Dad 100 proof.

It used to be.
However it was a very coveted Rye Whiskey and they flooded the market.
Templeton Rye refers to rye whiskey originally made in Templeton, Iowa during the prohibition era as a way for farmers in the Carroll County area to supplement their income.[1] Amber in color, it was considered to be of particularly high quality and was popular in Chicago, Omaha, and Kansas City speakeasies.[2] It was said to be the mobster Al Capone's drink of choice.[3] More recently "Templeton Rye" has been introduced as a brand of whiskey that its producer claims is based on a prohibition-era recipe. Distribution outside of Iowa began in August 2007.[4] Templeton Rye is distilled and aged at Lawrenceburg Distillers[5] in Lawrenceburg, Indiana and is shipped to Iowa by tanker truck. It is then bottled at an Iowa facility. Lawrenceburg Distillers is a wholly owned subsidiary of MGP Ingredients,[6] a corporation headquartered in Atchison, Kansas.

Like I said I think I burned out on that "Whiskey Faced Rye"
For a serious Iowa Bourbon it is impossible to beat Cedar Ridge.
I love it neat.
http://33.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m1lkpncgwy1qhexrxo1_400.jpg

[kepp]

I'm not a hard liquor drinker at all, but while travelling this past summer I had the chance to try some high-priced Scotch that was being sold in the Taipei airport (duty free shops). I believe it was called Glenfiddich. They had several different bottles open giving out free samples. I started with the lower priced bottle, but after a few I asked to try the highest priced bottle they had open. I don't remember the particulars, but they wanted over $200 for it (of course, it was in a airport). The first few I tried burned a bit going down, but that last one didn't burn at all. It was really smooth.

[cdcox]

Bowmore Legend is a very good entry point into the peaty Islay single malts at round $30 (used to be able to get it for $20).

Highland Park 12 yr and Laphroaig 10 yr are very different but both remarkable at the the next price point, about $10 north.

I love Talisker and Lagavulin but not enough to indulge very often.

[vailpass]

I never post, just lurk, but I felt inspired to chime in on this one. I acquired a taste for Scotch a few years back and my wallet certainly regrets it. But I have sampled quite a few different offerings and have a decently well rounded bit of knowledge.

Based on what you've said about your tastes, I would recommend two in particular. One is the Balvenie 12 DoubleWood, and the other is Cragganmore 12. Both are Speysides with a rich flavor. I personally find the DoubleWood to be the best Balvenie and that includes their much more expensive offerings.

Personally, I love Islay whiskeys. I even go nuts for Octomore which I do not recommend unless you really want a heavy peat flavor. One that I would recommend you try is Bruichladdich's Laddie Ten. It has a great flavor profile, but not an overwhelming smoke or peat flavor. It would be the one I would suggest to anyone wanting to try an Islay, but who is on the fence about that style. Another choice in the same boat is Talisker's Amoroso Cask Distillers Edition. The only issue is the Talisker is about $80+ a bottle (by me -- NJ) and the Laddie Ten can be had for under $50 (think I paid $46 last time).

As far as something more American, High West did a small batch distillation called Campfire. It is a blend of rye, bourbon, and an Islay. Sounds bizarre, at least I thought so when I read the label, but it is absolutely delicious.

This is probably one of the few topics I love to talk about because there is so much out there and I'm always interested in trying something new.

The following is a list of some other Scotches (not already mentioned) that I stock regularly at home. Feel free to ask questions or make suggestions if you think I might like something else.

Ardmore Traditional
Bruichladdich Port Charlotte
Caol Ila 12 year
Dalmore 12 year
Dalmore 15 year
Lagavulin 12 year DE
Lagavulin 16 Year
Laphroaig 10 year
Laphroaig Quarter Cask
Oban 14 Year
Talisker Storm

Edit: That was ridiculously long for a first post. Apologies.

That's a damn fine first post...

[BigOlChiefsfan]

I have trouble w/memory since I had a stroke some years ago, so some of this may be repeated - well, here it comes again.

For Bourbon, the best buy I know these days is W.L. Weller 12 year. Pappy Van Winkle ran the Weller distillery years ago, and the fellow who bottles Pappy and other Van Winkle bourbon was using 'prime' bottles of Weller for many years. I'm sure they've used that old stock up and they're bottling other whusk now - nevertheless, Weller 12 year is a great balance of price/quality. It's a 'wheater' bourbon (they use a lot of wheat in the mash instead of all corn/rye) and I happen to like those - YMMV - but it's good whusk.
The bourbon market has changed a lot in 20 years, stuff I'd have recommended years ago is no longer marketed by the old name - there's a lot of 'bottle A' now sold as 'bottle B' for twice the price - with just a nicer label, the same juice in the same glassware. Hence my recco for Weller 12 - if you can find it.
I happen to like the flavor profile of Wild Turkey. Unlike the 'wheater' above, it's a rye heavy bourbon. Their 'better' labels can get pretty spendy for not a ton of improvement to MY tastebuds, I've tried most of their spendy stuff over the years. I still buy WT 101 and I buy Wild Turkey Rare Breed. The Rare Breed is a little higher in proof - and I really like the taste. Buy it @ Costco if you can, best price I've found on it day in, day out.
A lot of bourbon ownership has changed in 20 years. That doesn't mean the whusk has changed all that much, most of the new owners have had the good sense to let things go along as they were before, if anything they're just upgrading the marketing appeal (fancier bottles & labels, same bourbon inside). But the folks who own Buffalo Trace should be mentioned here - they've swapped a lot of non-bourbon stuff around and wound up owning almost all the good bourbon labels I like besides the Wild Turkey line. They've improved the juice in the low-end products they bought (stuff like Rebel Yell) while maintaining good quality in their higher end stuff. They sell very little whiskey that I don't like - that's saying something.
Bourbon has become a lot more fashionable than it was in the 70's when I started drinking this stuff. It used to be a drink for old men and rough necks, then the marketing guys came up w/the idea of 'single barrel' and other higher end releases - next thing you know the 'good' whiskey got better (and spendier) the 'decent' whiskey had fewer gems hidden in there - that stuff got diverted to the good whiskey top shelf. That's ok. I stockpiled quite a bit of the stuff I like back when it was cheaper, with bad luck it'll outlast me and there'll be a big party when I kick the proverbial bucket. With good luck I'll drink it all first, and all y'all can buy your own.

[TheUte]

I was in SF a little bit ago, while I was there I had Baterhouse Bourbon.

Man I love it, cant find it anywhere.

Anybody ever had it?

[Cornstock]

I picked up a bottle of Lagavulin 16 a while back on sale. I'm saving it for a special occasion. Not a huge whiskey guy but I've been working on acquiring a taste for it. Love me a rusty nail at this point.

Any recommendations for something a bit lower priced that I can "practice" with before I break into the Lagavulin? I just want to be able to appreciate it fully.

[cdcox]

In order of increasing price:

Bowmore Legend (similar peatiness, but less complex)
Laphroaig 10 (peaty and complex, but the iodine and phenolics can be off-putting to the uninitiated. You could hate Laphroaig and still love the Lagavulin.)
Highland 12 (not as peaty as the the other two, more complex than Bowmore, and not as phenolic as Laphroaig. A very well balanced Islay.)

[Ming the Merciless]

I picked up a bottle of Lagavulin 16 a while back on sale. I'm saving it for a special occasion. Not a huge whiskey guy but I've been working on acquiring a taste for it. Love me a rusty nail at this point.

Any recommendations for something a bit lower priced that I can "practice" with before I break into the Lagavulin? I just want to be able to appreciate it fully.


From what I understand lagavulin 16 is an Islay about 60$ a bottle. $55 at Costco, here.

It's going to be peaty and Smokey....and rich....

I'm not super up on Islay scorched to recommend one, but if you're working your way up..and want something with no peat, glenlivet 12 is really drinkable and a good starter. It's a speyside though. I like mine with ice, but no added water. After the ice starts melting.....man is it good. And closer to 30$ so very affordable.

I'm looking for a lightly peated entry level bottle too....I just like my scotch without peat so far.

I know others will disagree...but try some with & without to see what your preference is.

[KCFANinNC]

Reddit also is a good resource /bourbon and /scotch

I am a big bourbon fan.

Best budget ones IMO are EW 1783 and Old Grandad BIB.

There are plenty of good ones in the $30 range, Eagle Rare is an example.

[srvy]

Reddit also is a good resource /bourbon and /scotch

I am a big bourbon fan.

Best budget ones IMO are EW 1783 and Old Grandad BIB.

There are plenty of good ones in the $30 range, Eagle Rare is an example.

:thumb:

I remember Playboy magazine long while back an ad for the Grandad Bottled in Bond.
"When the ladies go to bed the Gentleman bring out the Grandad."

Have had a bottle around every since. Was a tradition with my Dad after the days hunt to toast the days harvest with a finger or 2 of the Old Grandad.
Evan Williams 1783 I have sung its praises for quality and cost many times here.

[KCFANinNC]

Wild Turkey 101 is a good one.

And closer to the $25 range Rittenhouse Rye is very good stuff.

[HC_Chief]

In order of increasing price:

Bowmore Legend (similar peatiness, but less complex)
Laphroaig 10 (peaty and complex, but the iodine and phenolics can be off-putting to the uninitiated. You could hate Laphroaig and still love the Lagavulin.)
Highland 12 (not as peaty as the the other two, more complex than Bowmore, and not as phenolic as Laphroaig. A very well balanced Islay.)

Jeeeezuz, you like the <font color=green>ubergreen</font> Scotch! Laphroaig 10 tastes like a damn band aid that's been sitting next to a campfire. I love watching non-Scotch drinkers try that one.

My favorite green Scotch = Talisker 18. Unfortunately it is difficult to find and the price has sky-rocketed.

[BIG_DADDY]

Be sipping on this for the game

[NewChief]

As a big fan of peaty, smokey islay scotches, I've been watching to try this out:

Triple Smoke by Corsair Distillery (http://www.corsairartisan.com/triple_smoke.html)

WE TAKE THREE FRACTIONS OF MALTED BARLEY, EACH SMOKED BY A DIFFERENT FUEL – CHERRY WOOD, PEAT, AND BEECHWOOD – TO CRAFT THIS DEEPLY COMPLEX WHISKEY. POT DISTILLED THEN BARRELED IN NEW CHARRED OAK, TRIPLE SMOKE HAS THE SWEETNESS AND BARREL NOTES OF AN AMERICAN WHISKEY AND A SINGLE MALT’S RICH SMOKE, BROADENED BY TONES OF CHERRY AND BEECH. EXCELLENT MIXED OR NEAT.

[Gonzo]

There was a time not too long ago that I was a single malt scotch guy and that's all I would drink. My favorite was Glenlivet 18.
I ordered a glass at the bar one night last year and apparently the owner thought he could get away with mixing it with some blended shit. It tasted like paint thinner.
I thought maybe I was getting sick or something so my taste buds were fubar. I choked it down and left. The next time I tried my bottle at home, all I could taste was that shit I got at the bar. Been a burbon drinker ever since.
I really like the billet, knob and makers mark, (my personal fave) the best.
I don't like rye much. Tried Bird Dog the other day and it's a little strong but not bad.

[Iowanian]

I'm not a booze snob, but I can't really do Scotch.

My go-2 would be Crown, Makers Mark and Templeton Rye.

[cdcox]

I brought home a bottle of Ardbeg 10 year tonight. Yowza! I think it is even more challenging than Laphroaig. Ardbeg is less viscous, more nuanced and complex nose comapred to the smokiness of Laphroaig. Both are nicely medicinal and phenolic on the palate.

[Mr_Tomahawk]

http://bricknbrewpub.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/angelsenvy.jpg

[Indian Chief]

Was actually drinking Angels Envy this evening. Top 2 or 3 bourbon for me at the moment.

If you like the Ardbeg 10, take a stab at a couple others -- Ardbeg Auriverdes and Ardbeg Uigeadail.

[KCTitus]

Was actually drinking Angels Envy this evening. Top 2 or 3 bourbon for me at the moment...

The most interesting finish to a bourbon I've ever tasted as the port wine flavors come out. It's good but obscenely expensive in my state...frigging state controlled liquor.

[Valiant]

I usually start with the cheap stuff and then go to my sipping whiskeys

That just does not make any sense to me.

[Valiant]

http://bricknbrewpub.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/angelsenvy.jpg

I have been meaning to try that.

I buy a different whiskey everytime I go to bubbles. Still drinking larceny right now.

http://www.larcenybourbon.com/home/#

[penguinz]

I have been meaning to try that.

I buy a different whiskey everytime I go to bubbles. Still drinking larceny right now.

http://www.larcenybourbon.com/home/#Larceny is decent. It is a wheated bourbon like Makers. I prefer it over Makers.

Costco has the 1.75L of Larceny for under $40.

[Ming the Merciless]

Tried another pretty standard single malt the other day, that many of you have probably tried:

Glenfiddich 12 year (Speyside Single Malt Scotch)


http://www.labodegawine.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/glenfiddich-70.jpg




I drank it on ice, in a tumbler and let the ice melt just a little...Like I usually do with other speysides


I have to say I REALLY liked it for an inexpensive bottle....It was VERY VERY smooth...almost nilla wafer, almost unsweetended butterscotch and just the tiniest hint of peat, if any (very little to zero peat flavor)...

It wasn't really fruity or sharp, it was more mellow and subdued..

I believe for the 12 year its about 35$ a bottle...and a damn fine buy IMO. I would say almost any whisky drinker whther it be Irish, Bourbon, Scotch..or whatever should try this because its so affordable...

MAYBE if you ONLY like a really heavy peat (Islay? or the other peaty types?) MAYBE then this wont be 'enough' flavor or something...but if you like non-peated scotches....this one is a real good 'daily driver'

[Ming the Merciless]

I'm not a booze snob, but I can't really do Scotch.

My go-2 would be Crown, Makers Mark and Templeton Rye.

I'm positive you could do Speyside scotches

Like Glenfiddich 12 and Glenlivet 12 or 18...all of which to me are just as smooth & tasty if not moreso than crown/makers. ANd I am a fan of makers and crown.

[Ming the Merciless]

Was actually drinking Angels Envy this evening. Top 2 or 3 bourbon for me at the moment.

If you like the Ardbeg 10, take a stab at a couple others -- Ardbeg Auriverdes and Ardbeg Uigeadail.

Any recomendations on a lightly peated scotch for someone who isnt (so far) fond of any peated scotches?

[KCTitus]

I'm positive you could do Speyside scotches

Like Glenfiddich 12 and Glenlivet 12 or 18...all of which to me are just as smooth & tasty if not moreso than crown/makers. ANd I am a fan of makers and crown.

Or Chivas...I though Chivas was the sweetest scotch I had ever tried.

[headsnap]

This was me today... damn I wish they were full!!!

[penguinz]

This was me today... damn I wish they were full!!!What were you doing with the barrels?

[headsnap]

What were you doing with the barrels?

six are going to a friends restaurant, I will turn the seventh into an electric guitar among other things...

[penguinz]

six are going to a friends restaurant, I will turn the seventh into an electric guitar among other things...
Cool. I have always wanted to use one to make a coffee table.

[Indian Chief]

Any recomendations on a lightly peated scotch for someone who isnt (so far) fond of any peated scotches?

Ardmore is the one that really jumps to mind. It is about as lightly peated as possible while still retaining those smokey notes.

Edit: Tried to post a link but was unable due to being a new member. Go to google and search for master of malt (great site for all things whiskey) and Ardmore Traditional.

[InChiefsHeaven]

Cool. I have always wanted to use one to make a coffee table.

I bought one from a guy here who makes them. It's beautiful, and quite the conversation piece.

[headsnap]

I bought one from a guy here who makes them. It's beautiful, and quite the conversation piece.

we have a barrel top lazy susan on our kitchen table, barrel stave wine rack, etc... but then again, we live in Louisville...

[Stanley Nickels]

I've been working my way through a Laphroaig 10. Peaty, but not an Oban or Lagavulin.

[Rausch]

I get real German on the hard stuff.

House rule is no hard stuff at home. Scotch only on the road...

[Johnny Vegas]

just a few pickups over the last 6 months. LOVE LOVE LOVE IT ALL

http://i121.photobucket.com/albums/o205/badmajama/IMG_0763_zpsuoetorhz.jpg (http://s121.photobucket.com/user/badmajama/media/IMG_0763_zpsuoetorhz.jpg.html)
http://i121.photobucket.com/albums/o205/badmajama/IMG_0786_zpsnhhsaxb8.jpg (http://s121.photobucket.com/user/badmajama/media/IMG_0786_zpsnhhsaxb8.jpg.html)
http://i121.photobucket.com/albums/o205/badmajama/IMG_1108_zpsvdwcg0d0.jpg (http://s121.photobucket.com/user/badmajama/media/IMG_1108_zpsvdwcg0d0.jpg.html)
http://i121.photobucket.com/albums/o205/badmajama/IMG_0796_zpsjrmaonun.jpg (http://s121.photobucket.com/user/badmajama/media/IMG_0796_zpsjrmaonun.jpg.html)

[lewdog]

I'll be in the zoo in August. I'd gladly try some of that. :D

[Indian Chief]

Congrats on actually getting your hands on some PVW. It's a unicorn around here. How is that W.L. Weller? That's been on my radar for some time.

[Tombstone RJ]

just a few pickups over the last 6 months. LOVE LOVE LOVE IT ALL

http://i121.photobucket.com/albums/o205/badmajama/IMG_0763_zpsuoetorhz.jpg (http://s121.photobucket.com/user/badmajama/media/IMG_0763_zpsuoetorhz.jpg.html)
http://i121.photobucket.com/albums/o205/badmajama/IMG_0786_zpsnhhsaxb8.jpg (http://s121.photobucket.com/user/badmajama/media/IMG_0786_zpsnhhsaxb8.jpg.html)
http://i121.photobucket.com/albums/o205/badmajama/IMG_1108_zpsvdwcg0d0.jpg (http://s121.photobucket.com/user/badmajama/media/IMG_1108_zpsvdwcg0d0.jpg.html)
http://i121.photobucket.com/albums/o205/badmajama/IMG_0796_zpsjrmaonun.jpg (http://s121.photobucket.com/user/badmajama/media/IMG_0796_zpsjrmaonun.jpg.html)

Pappy Van Whinkle--how much did they cost? And, the Jap whiskey, how much?

[Tombstone RJ]

I'm drinking some Benrinnes 13 year old scotch. Single Malt, Single Cask.

[Johnny Vegas]

Congrats on actually getting your hands on some PVW. It's a unicorn around here. How is that W.L. Weller? That's been on my radar for some time.

the WLW is absolutely amazing. Insanely smooth for 140 proof whiskey its like candy. Don't hesitate to snag a bottle. Even at secondary prices its still worth every penny. Thankfully I know someone pretty well at the liquor store and he was able to get me some PVW before the bars in town got them all.

Pappy Van Whinkle--how much did they cost? And, the Jap whiskey, how much?

from left to right 10 year was $80, 12 year was $135, 20 year was $200 (at a discount from $400), and the 23 was $500. Saving the 23 year for my wedding day to drink at the table.

The Yamazaki was $70 and that bottle was finished in about a week with another buddy. real good whiskey

[Tombstone RJ]

I'd love to get my hands on some Jap whiskey...

[lawrenceRaider]

If you haven't tried some of the whiskey coming out of Texas, you are doing yourself a disservice. My favorite is from Ranger Creek, their 36 caliber Texas bourbon.

http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/72/32/33/723233d331935a0e6b51ec290258237d.jpg

Snagged some of this for St Paddy's day.

http://www.bakersandlarners.co.uk/uploads/images/products/product_12735_large.jpg

[Tombstone RJ]

I've heard good things about TX whiskeys! Colorado is also making some fantastic corn whiskeys!

[Archie F. Swin]

I've taken a recent interest in developing my palate for Scotch, both blended and single malt styles. The two primary reasons for my interest are my Scottish heritage and the weight I'm gaining from constantly drinking craft beer. Over the past year I've had a dram of The MacAllan 12, Glenlivet 12 and Laphroaig 10. I really enjoyed the Laphroaig the most.

I can't afford to buy a $50+ bottle of Scotch regularly, so I'd love to hear your advice on good, yet affordable blended styles. I've heard good things about Johnnie Walker, Monkey Shoulder and Black Grouse among others. I'd love to hear about your favorite scotch and how you take it.

I understand there is a world of Bourbon out there, but at this time I'm simply not interested.

[NewChief]

I've taken a recent interest in developing my palate for Scotch, both blended and single malt styles. The two primary reasons for my interest are my Scottish heritage and the weight I'm gaining from constantly drinking craft beer. Over the past year I've had a dram of The MacAllan 12, Glenlivet 12 and Laphroaig 10. I really enjoyed the Laphroaig the most.

I can't afford to buy a $50+ bottle of Scotch regularly, so I'd love to hear your advice on good, yet affordable blended styles. I've heard good things about Johnnie Walker, Monkey Shoulder and Black Grouse among others. I'd love to hear about your favorite scotch and how you take it.

I understand there is a world of Bourbon out there, but at this time I'm simply not interested.

If you like the peaty style of Islay scotches (Laphroaig), then you might try some of these:

Ardmore Traditional Cask
Finlaggan Malt Whiskey
Trader Joe's Islay Storm
Bowmore Legend
Black Bottle Scotch
Mcclelland's Islay (opinions are pretty polarizing on this one).
Smokey Joe
Islay Mist 8

[Ming the Merciless]

If anyone happens to come to bum F* egypt northern california and visit, this is where I will take you to have a whisky and a beer:


http://www.jackandtonys.com/_images/jt_logo.jpg

http://www.jackandtonys.com/whisky_menu.html <-- whisky menu

http://www.jackandtonys.com/index.html <--home

[Archie F. Swin]

Last week I bought my first bottle of Scotch ( at my local small pkg store). I bought Chivas Regal 12 and I don't like it very much. Ive tried neat, splash of water, ice. I'm considering mixing something in and just getting thorough the bottle...to make a wiser decision next time.

[HonestChieffan]

Last week I bought my first bottle of Scotch ( at my local small pkg store). I bought Chivas Regal 12 and I don't like it very much. Ive tried neat, splash of water, ice. I'm considering mixing something in and just getting thorough the bottle...to make a wiser decision next time.

I cant drink scotch. Its like diesel to me

[Indian Chief]

If anyone happens to come to bum F* egypt northern california and visit, this is where I will take you to have a whisky and a beer:

One day I will have to take you up on that. Also, regarding my recommendation of the Ardmore Traditional, it has come to my attention that they have replaced it this year with something slightly different. Everything I have read agrees that it is not the same quality/taste (I think they called it Ardmore Legacy). You want the traditional.

[Aries Walker]

Now, here's a topic I can get into. Whiskey is Henry VIII's finest contribution to mankind. Thanks, fatso.

My best recommendation ever is Knappogue Castle. It's an Irish single malt, light and sweet, just a little bit spicy, and in that $20-25 price range where it's not Obviously Cheap but hasn't hit that Stupid Crazy level of priciness either. It's my faraway favorite.

[KC Dan]

If you haven't tried some of the whiskey coming out of Texas, you are doing yourself a disservice. My favorite is from Ranger Creek, their 36 caliber Texas bourbon.

Snagged some of this for St Paddy's day.

http://www.bakersandlarners.co.uk/uploads/images/products/product_12735_large.jpg
Shared a bottle of this that I bought at the Jamison factory in Middleton, County Cork last month with my co-worker and his Irish father-in-law. He lives in Monkstown. Damn good!!! Still love the Redbreast 12 a little more but damn good. The old guy also shared some of his local moonshine - good gawd - it would take the paint off any surface in seconds...

[Indian Chief]

Shared a bottle of this that I bought at the Jamison factory in Middleton, County Cork last month with my co-worker and his Irish father-in-law. He lives in Monkstown. Damn good!!! Still love the Redbreast 12 a little more but damn good. The old guy also shared some of his local moonshine - good gawd - it would take the paint off any surface in seconds...

Glad to get a firsthand account and comparison. Green Spot and Redbreast 12 are both on my to do list. By me GS is $40ish and the Redbreast is $55+ so I was on the fence about a blind purchase.

[Amnorix]

I really REALLY like certain whiskeys and I cant stand others...I never really knew how much I liked whiskey until I found two things:

1) The right kind of whiskey for my tastes

2) The right way to drink it


For me, I like lighter single-malt Scotches - generally of the "Speyside" region....

My go-to Is Glenlivet 12 year old (cheap and decent) but I like to splurge on 18/21 on occasion.

I would love to branch out and try more Speysides to get a couple more 'daily drivers' in my stable...


Oh also, I find that I like mine on the rocks with just a TINY bit of water.

What say you??

How do you like your whisky? WHat are your favorites?

I **love** scotch. I can't tell you a damn thing about wine, and I'm one of the rare few that hate beer, but scotch, bring it on!

Glenlivet is my go to for a "cheaper" (it's not that cheap) Scotch. If I'm willing to spring for more, then I like these which are generally Highlands:


Oban 14

Macallan 12 (I have tried Macallan 15 and 18, and didn't think they were any better so I would never spend the money)

Glenmorangie 12 (just a hint of being spicy)

[Amnorix]

That could very well be true... a full 16 oz of of good whiskey, and then I probably wouldnt care all that much what I drank after...

But I cannot stand the really smokey or 'peaty' Scotches like some of the Highlands....maybe I just havent found the right ones, but I don't think i could pound 16 oz of that.


I think the really smoky/peaty scotches I've had were all Islay, not Highlands. God they were awful. Laphroaig was undrinkable to me, though it had come highly recommended.

[Amnorix]

I wouldn't add water. Seriously (unless you're drinking neat and just adding a couple of drops to wake it up).

Temper the speed at which you drink it. Slow. Slow. Slow. Tiny sips. Be in the right frame of mind and place for drinking it (I suggest a table with one other person in a darkly lit bar/restaurant perhaps after a nice, intimate dinner or sitting at home next to a fireplace with a book). One drink, when you first start drinking islay scotches, might take you 30 minutes to an hour to drink (I wish they still did for me). They're intense and can create an atmosphere unto themselves.

Once you acquire the taste, though... it's dangerous.


Islay is like mixing cigar ashes directly into your scotch and then draining it through a filter prior to drinking.

Absolutely undrinkable. Can't even fathom how people like it (though I have some friends that do).

[penguinz]

I **love** scotch. I can't tell you a damn thing about wine, and I'm one of the rare few that hate beer, but scotch, bring it on!
I can not stand beer either. But I am a bourbon guy not scotch.

[Amnorix]

The Flavor Map
Its a pretty good guide for the taste you are seeking.
http://silouanthompson.net/images/Single-Malt-Scotch-Whisky-Flavour-Map.jpg


I like this. I'm more or less in the lower right for the most part. Need to use this to help me try some new ones!

[Amnorix]

Ditto. Started drinking single malts around 2000, but they have become very expensive. I now have to save up for a special bottle once or twice a year and drink them infrequently to make them last longer.

In the past 3-4 years I've switched to bourbon as my everyday pour with my cigars, as they are one-fourth to one-half the price of single malts. They're not as complex as most of my single malts, but they're good and smooth and go well with the smokes.


There's really not that much I need/want, so my wife is very nice to me on my birthday and Christmas time with the scotch.

[Amnorix]

Tomatin 15yr and Balvenie Carribean Cask. Both under $60 and very good.


I had the Tomatin 18 and thought it was excellent. It has a little bite to it.

I then tried the 12 and thought it was crap. Never even seen the 15 anywhere.

[KC native]

I'm more of a beer drinker, but this stuff was excellent for a $35 bottle. I will be buying another after I finish the one I have.

http://www.frdistilling.com/system/images/BAhbBlsHOgZmSSIqMjAxMi8wNS8yOS8xNi8xNC8yOS82Nzkvd2hpc2tleV8zLmpwZwY6BkVU/whiskey-3.jpg

[Amnorix]

I can not stand beer either. But I am a bourbon guy not scotch.


I'm not sure what it is. I think if you don't get used to drinking beer at age 16 somewhere, then you probably will never like it. :shrug:

[BigOlChiefsfan]

I love beer and that's part of the problem - drink a lot of beer you get a beer belly. Get a beer belly - with my genes - and you get diabetes. Get diabetes...no more beer allowed! This situation both sucks and blows. But on the bright side - there's still whisk(e)y. Life is still worth living.

[Amnorix]

Quick question -- has anyone actually gone to Scotland to check out a distillery? If so, how was it?

I'm not sure I'll ever make it to Scotland, but at some point I'd like to spend at least a few days there, and visiting a distillery would be pretty cool I think.

[Amnorix]

I love beer and that's part of the problem - drink a lot of beer you get a beer belly. Get a beer belly - with my genes - and you get diabetes. Get diabetes...no more beer allowed! This situation both sucks and blows. But on the bright side - there's still whisk(e)y. Life is still worth living.


I don't regret not liking beer and mayonnaise for about the same reason. I like enough unhealthy stuff. I don't need to force myself to get used to something unhealthy so I do like it!

[Reaper16]

I'm not sure what it is. I think if you don't get used to drinking beer at age 16 somewhere, then you probably will never like it. :shrug:

I didn't start drinking beer until I was 22. But then, I never started drinking 30-pack type industrial lagers.

[Raiderhater]

Got to try Kansas City's own Rieger Whiskey last night. Sipped it neat. It's some pretty damned smooth whiskey. I detected a strong note of butterscotch with a very slight woody finish. It was quite delicious.


http://jriegerco.com

[Indian Chief]

Before starting on Scotch I was a big beer drinker. Tried every craft brew I could get my hands on, and I still do my own brew once a year. As I have gotten more into whiskey, I find that my tolerance for beer (feel crappy after 3+) and enjoyment of beer has gone way down. I can't say exactly what it is, but that's where I am at.

[TribalElder]

You should be drinking bulleit bourbon frontier whiskey

Seriously

[cdcox]

Quick question -- has anyone actually gone to Scotland to check out a distillery? If so, how was it?

I'm not sure I'll ever make it to Scotland, but at some point I'd like to spend at least a few days there, and visiting a distillery would be pretty cool I think.

I visited the Scotch Whisky Experience in Edinburgh. Not a distillery, but very educational about the process, culture, and history.

[headsnap]

Fun day today, mrs headsnap and I delivered six 'empty' barrels to a friend in Virginia for her new restaurant. We knocked the bungs out and emptied out the dregs that were left in the barrels, got about a pitcher and a half. Strained that through coffee filters and we have some very good smoky bourbon. This stuff is strong, burn your tongue strong, but cut with about 1/3 water it is very sweet and drinkable. Tomorrow we are going to borrow a hydrometer to test the proof. These barrels were from Four Roses Distillery and were dated May of 2009 BTW...


http://headsnap.net/dustbin/4roses1.jpg

http://headsnap.net/dustbin/4roses2.jpg

http://headsnap.net/dustbin/4roses3.jpg

[Indian Chief]

Four Roses is some good stuff. That's awesome.

[eDave]

What's your perfect Manhattan?

[cdcox]

What's your perfect Manhattan?

I like to make mine with Scotch.

Very, very light on the vermouth and bitters. I leave them out.

No cherry!

Served on the rocks.

[Amnorix]

I didn't start drinking beer until I was 22. But then, I never started drinking 30-pack type industrial lagers.


Yeah, my friends have tried introducing me to the better ones. "This is a Sam Adams Stout, try it". "This is a black and tan, it's really different". "This is an ale". Etc. etc.

They all taste fundamentally the same to me -- beer. Blech.

:shrug:

[Amnorix]

I visited the Scotch Whisky Experience in Edinburgh. Not a distillery, but very educational about the process, culture, and history.


Need to make a note of that. Sounds great. Thanks!

[penguinz]

Fun day today, mrs headsnap and I delivered six 'empty' barrels to a friend in Virginia for her new restaurant. We knocked the bungs out and emptied out the dregs that were left in the barrels, got about a pitcher and a half. Strained that through coffee filters and we have some very good smoky bourbon. This stuff is strong, burn your tongue strong, but cut with about 1/3 water it is very sweet and drinkable. Tomorrow we are going to borrow a hydrometer to test the proof. These barrels were from Four Roses Distillery and were dated May of 2009 BTW...


http://headsnap.net/dustbin/4roses1.jpg

http://headsnap.net/dustbin/4roses2.jpg

http://headsnap.net/dustbin/4roses3.jpgHow can one get a hold of some of this? ;)

[Faddy Yomama]

Meh. Tried whisky, I'm too much of a wimp for it. Plus I'm still technically underage.

[penguinz]

Meh. Tried whisky, I'm too much of a wimp for it. Plus I'm still technically underage.You have to be able to grow pubes in order to appreciate a fine whiskey.

[Faddy Yomama]

You have to be able to grow pubes in order to appreciate a fine whiskey.Actually, my pubes are pretty strong. If you want, I can send you a picture.

[RaiderH8r]

just a few pickups over the last 6 months. LOVE LOVE LOVE IT ALL

http://i121.photobucket.com/albums/o205/badmajama/IMG_0763_zpsuoetorhz.jpg (http://s121.photobucket.com/user/badmajama/media/IMG_0763_zpsuoetorhz.jpg.html)
http://i121.photobucket.com/albums/o205/badmajama/IMG_0786_zpsnhhsaxb8.jpg (http://s121.photobucket.com/user/badmajama/media/IMG_0786_zpsnhhsaxb8.jpg.html)
http://i121.photobucket.com/albums/o205/badmajama/IMG_1108_zpsvdwcg0d0.jpg (http://s121.photobucket.com/user/badmajama/media/IMG_1108_zpsvdwcg0d0.jpg.html)
http://i121.photobucket.com/albums/o205/badmajama/IMG_0796_zpsjrmaonun.jpg (http://s121.photobucket.com/user/badmajama/media/IMG_0796_zpsjrmaonun.jpg.html)

I would steal your booze before your tv.

[RaiderH8r]

Islay is like mixing cigar ashes directly into your scotch and then draining it through a filter prior to drinking.

Absolutely undrinkable. Can't even fathom how people like it (though I have some friends that do).

That's because you like your scotch the way you like your football teams. Without character.

Snoot snoot.

[Molitoth]

I've just gotten into scotch over the past year. Obviously I'm starting cheap and working my way up the price list.

So far I've purchased:

The Balvenie DoubleWood 12 <--My Fav
Glenmorangie Original 10
Glenmorangie Lasanta 12 <-- Really Good
Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban 12
Glenmorangie Nectar 12
The Macallan 12
The Glenlivet 12
Ardbeg 10 <-- Yuck! Too smoky
Chivas Regal 12
Dewars White Label
Dewars 12 <-- Pretty good for the price... Think I found a bottle for $23.
Johnnie Walker Red Label
The Famous Grouse

[headsnap]

How can one get a hold of some of this? ;)

come to Kentucky. :D

[OmahaChief]

just a few pickups over the last 6 months. LOVE LOVE LOVE IT ALL

http://i121.photobucket.com/albums/o205/badmajama/IMG_0763_zpsuoetorhz.jpg (http://s121.photobucket.com/user/badmajama/media/IMG_0763_zpsuoetorhz.jpg.html)
http://i121.photobucket.com/albums/o205/badmajama/IMG_0786_zpsnhhsaxb8.jpg (http://s121.photobucket.com/user/badmajama/media/IMG_0786_zpsnhhsaxb8.jpg.html)
http://i121.photobucket.com/albums/o205/badmajama/IMG_1108_zpsvdwcg0d0.jpg (http://s121.photobucket.com/user/badmajama/media/IMG_1108_zpsvdwcg0d0.jpg.html)
http://i121.photobucket.com/albums/o205/badmajama/IMG_0796_zpsjrmaonun.jpg (http://s121.photobucket.com/user/badmajama/media/IMG_0796_zpsjrmaonun.jpg.html)

Excellent collection and a fine taste you have there.

[Archie F. Swin]

I've just gotten into scotch over the past year. Obviously I'm starting cheap and working my way up the price list.

So far I've purchased:

The Balvenie DoubleWood 12 <--My Fav
Glenmorangie Original 10
Glenmorangie Lasanta 12 <-- Really Good
Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban 12
Glenmorangie Nectar 12
The Macallan 12
The Glenlivet 12
Ardbeg 10 <-- Yuck! Too smoky
Chivas Regal 12 <----- ASS!!
Dewars White Label
Dewars 12 <-- Pretty good for the price... Think I found a bottle for $23.
Johnnie Walker Red Label
The Famous Grouse

helping

[Molitoth]

helping

haha

[RaiderH8r]

If you like Yamasaki you might consider giving Hibiki a try. Made by the same distillery. A light and tasty whisky.

[johnny961]

I have always drank Canadian as I like a milder flavor that can be enjoyed. Crown Reserve chilled. Not a real big fan of a real harsh bourboney taste like Jack Daniels or Beam. I have never tried scotch though. Have wanted to just to experiment with something different. So from what I gather in this thread something milder like a glenlivet 12 or something similar might be a good bet? Other suggestions? Don't think I would be into something with a stout burnt peat bite. Just curious.

[Amnorix]

I have always drank Canadian as I like a milder flavor that can be enjoyed. Crown Reserve chilled. Not a real big fan of a real harsh bourboney taste like Jack Daniels or Beam. I have never tried scotch though. Have wanted to just to experiment with something different. So from what I gather in this thread something milder like a glenlivet 12 or something similar might be a good bet? Other suggestions? Don't think I would be into something with a stout burnt peat bite. Just curious.


I like Crown Royal. Usually I take it on ice, while I prefer my scotch neat. :shrug:

If you also like Crown Royal (not sure if Crown Reserved is similar, as I haven't heard of or tried that one) and your taste buds are like mine, then take a look at Glenlivet 12 ("cheaper" option), and Oban 14 and Macallan 12 for more expensive (but not completely absurd) options.


FWIW, the best scotch I have had is the Glenlivet 25. I haven't had any scotch that was older than that. Some friends and I all pitched in to buy a bottle after one of our buddies made it through open heart surgery to repair a valve issue. I've had Macallan 15 and 18, and honestly can't see why it's worth a penny more than the 12 (which is also excellent).

Had several Balvenies, all of which are good. The 12, 17 (weird number, but whatever) (Madeira cask) and the 21 (Portwood). The friend and I who tried them both agreed that the 17 was quite excellent and, oddly enough, that we liked both the 12 and the 17 more than the 21.

So basically 17 > 12 > 21.

You would think that at least within the same family more aged would always equal better, but it isn't necessarily true in my experience. Other times, the difference is so marginal that it isn't worth the typically gigantic leaps in price.

[Indian Chief]

I have always drank Canadian as I like a milder flavor that can be enjoyed. Crown Reserve chilled. Not a real big fan of a real harsh bourboney taste like Jack Daniels or Beam. I have never tried scotch though. Have wanted to just to experiment with something different. So from what I gather in this thread something milder like a glenlivet 12 or something similar might be a good bet? Other suggestions? Don't think I would be into something with a stout burnt peat bite. Just curious.

I would ask what tasting notes you like in the Crown? I think that gives a good idea of what you might like. Milder flavor means you avoid the Islays for certain, and I'd take a guess that you'd like Speysides, like Amnorix pointed out. Oban has some punch to it, (not the burning tire covered in bandaids kind) but a strong flavor profile nonetheless, so I wouldn't start there.

[gblowfish]

I drink Crown Royal too. When I was in college, I'd shoot Wild Turkey in the bar until I fell off the barstool. Also drank lots of Jim Beam playing all night poker (and doing other things). Now I just drink Crown Royal now and again. I'm much more into quality than quantity when it comes to all types of alcohol.

[Strongside]

Going to a dinner party at a friends house tomorrow night. Both he and his wife are huge scotch drinkers. He's got over 3 grand in his cabinet, and I'm gonna taste alllllll of it.

[Archie F. Swin]

Going to a dinner party at a friends house tomorrow night. Both he and his wife are huge scotch drinkers. He's got over 3 grand in his cabinet, and I'm gonna taste alllllll of it.

order a dram of Laphroaig 10 year, neat, with a splash of water. Let it wash over you.

[In58men]

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/61bipp9FAsw" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[cdcox]

order a dram of Laphroaig 10 year, neat, with a splash of water. Let it wash over you.

I was sipping one of these tonight and my daughter said it smelled like a sharpie. LMAO

[Miles]

I was sipping one of these tonight and my daughter said it smelled like a sharpie. LMAO

I love certain types of scotch but do not disagree with your daughter. It tastes about that way too but have friends that love it so I keep trying it. Did you like it early on or was it more of an acquired taste?

[Miles]

Really enjoy what I have had from Balvenie. The 12yr doublewood is my general stable and several of their more aged offerings have also been really good. However, feel like I'm missing something by not branching out but in that price range I tend to stick with what I know.

[cdcox]

I love certain types of scotch but do not disagree with your daughter. It tastes about that way too but have friends that love it so I keep trying it. Did you like it early on or was it more of an acquired taste?

I liked it fine from the beginning, but my palate is wide open. I love complex and unusual flavors.

[Indian Chief]

I liked it fine from the beginning, but my palate is wide open. I love complex and unusual flavors.

I was the same way. First pour and I was in love. Same thing with Lagavulin and Bruichladdich.

[Great Expectations]

Copper Run makes a good whiskey. They set up shop in a Walnut Grove, just a little south of Sprinfield. Very smooth with a nutty flavor and hot finish.

[penguinz]

I drink Crown Royal too. When I was in college, I'd shoot Wild Turkey in the bar until I fell off the barstool. Also drank lots of Jim Beam playing all night poker (and doing other things). Now I just drink Crown Royal now and again. I'm much more into quality than quantity when it comes to all types of alcohol.
Crown is not quality.

[Archie F. Swin]

I liked it fine from the beginning, but my palate is wide open. I love complex and unusual flavors.

I tried The MacAllan...did not love

I tried Glenlivet 12...meh

A friend bought me a glass of Laphroaig 10...by far the most pleasant Scotch experience to date

I want to try Bunnahabhain
<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/zn5m5jR3yDk" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>

[penguinz]

Getting ready to break into a bottle of Bib & Tucker.

[lewdog]

Getting ready to break into a bottle of Bib & Tucker.

Looks fancy. How do you drink something this fancy?

[penguinz]

Looks fancy. How do you drink something this fancy?
Out of a Baileys Irish Cream glass because it is the only clean glass I have right now. ;-)

[cdcox]

McClelland's Islay is my latest attempt to find a low priced single malt. There is something nasty going on here. The nose is smokey and sweet. Mouthfeel is thin with a touch of oiliness. So far so good. The taste and finish is where everything goes wrong. Astringent, peaty, chemical, saccharine, licorice, dirty sock water. I'll finish the bottle, but I won't be a repeat customer for this regrettable malt.

[Indian Chief]

Just picked up the Laphroaig 15 200th anniversary edition. Impressions to follow.

[Amnorix]

I tried The MacAllan...did not love

I tried Glenlivet 12...meh

A friend bought me a glass of Laphroaig 10...by far the most pleasant Scotch experience to date



I find that stuff nasty, but to each his own.

You're up there in the smokey section. Maybe try Ardbeg, Talisker, etc. See link to post with scotch flavor map:


http://www.chiefsplanet.com/BB/showpost.php?p=10921175&postcount=36

[phisherman]

I have really been digging High West's rye blends lately. Sipping on Bourye tonight, a blend of 10 and 16 year old ryes with a bit of 9 year old bourbon. Super smooth.

[Indian Chief]

High West does a great job. Their Campfire is one of those bottles I always have to have in stock.

[Indian Chief]

Going here on Saturday: http://www.theflatironroom.com

Check out the whisky list. I don't think I've ever seen anything like it.

[Archie F. Swin]

check what the wifey got me for me birthday

[Ming the Merciless]

Had me some of this the other night:
http://www.drinks-of-the-world.de/bilder/glenfarclas_12_jahre,p-37000106,s-600.jpg


Glenfarclas 12 year old speyside

Was very sweet. Fruity and spicy and concentrated explosion of sherry.

Zero peat.

Right off the bat it was almost too sweet and too fruity, but as the ice melted it and it mellowed out, it was very enjoyable.

Its a mid-grade around maybe 50$ a bottle....I enjoyed it ...I wouldn't rush out to buy another one but it would be a great after dinner drink or paired with a desert or if you like fruity/sherry it could be a daily driver.

My recommend is a glass full of ice and pour it deep and wait a bit for it to get all melty and mellow.

[Aries Walker]

So when I went up to Vermont in June, I happened upon a presentation of a small local distillery whose spokesman had the temperament of a 19th century carnival barker. He was talking up their products and offering samples of their vodka, their 'blue agave' (that is, Tequila, except from Vermont), and their Snowfall brand whiskey. The odd thing about Snowfall was that it was clear, which (as he passed out complimentary shots) he explained as being the result of it not being aged in the barrels as most whiskey is. The aging, he explained to the uninitiated, gave it its color as well as the flavor of the wood. As they did not age Snowfall, it had no color, and relied only on the flavor of the grain, which I have to admit was fairly smooth.

Those of us who were there started looking at each other as we downed the samples. "Isn't there a name for whiskey that hasn't been aged in casks?" we each thought out loud, although we all knew the answer. Whiskey that has not been aged in a cask is, of course, moonshine.

Naturally, I coughed up the 35 bucks and bought a bottle. I took it out to Indiana so my better half and I could try some together. Our joint result was that we could mark off the 'tried moonshine' box in our list of life accomplishments, but neither of us were anxious to thunder out to the local distillery to make a habit of it. So, now I have the remainder back here.

Naturally, I'll be taking it to this year's New Year's Eve party, and make my friends drink it. Perhaps we'll use it as Party Foul Punishment Drink. It's only fair.

[KCTitus]

So when I went up to Vermont in June, I happened upon a presentation of a small local distillery whose spokesman had the temperament of a 19th century carnival barker. He was talking up their products and offering samples of their vodka, their 'blue agave' (that is, Tequila, except from Vermont), and their Snowfall brand whiskey. The odd thing about Snowfall was that it was clear, which (as he passed out complimentary shots) he explained as being the result of it not being aged in the barrels as most whiskey is. The aging, he explained to the uninitiated, gave it its color as well as the flavor of the wood. As they did not age Snowfall, it had no color, and relied only on the flavor of the grain, which I have to admit was fairly smooth.

Those of us who were there started looking at each other as we downed the samples. "Isn't there a name for whiskey that hasn't been aged in casks?" we each thought out loud, although we all knew the answer. Whiskey that has not been aged in a cask is, of course, moonshine.

Naturally, I coughed up the 35 bucks and bought a bottle. I took it out to Indiana so my better half and I could try some together. Our joint result was that we could mark off the 'tried moonshine' box in our list of life accomplishments, but neither of us were anxious to thunder out to the local distillery to make a habit of it. So, now I have the remainder back here.

Naturally, I'll be taking it to this year's New Year's Eve party, and make my friends drink it. Perhaps we'll use it as Party Foul Punishment Drink. It's only fair.

It's good to live in the South, where the true moonshine is readily available if you know someone who knows someone...

Some of the best liquor is illegal liquor and a pure 'apple pie' moonshine is better than anything you get in the liquor store.

[KCTitus]

oh...and not to derail the thread...

Anything from Buffalo Trace...Pappy, Eagle, Buffalo Trace...

[Indian Chief]

Had me some of this the other night:

http://www.drinks-of-the-world.de/bilder/glenfarclas_12_jahre,p-37000106,s-600.jpg


Glenfarclas 12 year old speyside

Was very sweet. Fruity and spicy and concentrated explosion of sherry.

Zero peat.

Right off the bat it was almost to sweet and too fruity, but as the ice melted it and it mellowed out, it was very enjoyable.

Its a mid-grade around maybe 50$ a bottle....I enjoyed it ...I wouldn't rush out to buy another one but it would be a great after dinner drink or paired with a desert or if you like fruity/sherry it could be a daily driver.

My recommend is a glass full of ice and pour it deep and wait a bit for it to get all melty and mellow.

That's exactly how I feel about Glenfarclas. It is a great after dinner, cold night, sitting by a fire Scotch. I have a 40 year old farclas that has yet to be opened. I'll be sure to post about that once it is opened.

[Ming the Merciless]

Going here on Saturday: http://www.theflatironroom.com

Check out the whisky list. I don't think I've ever seen anything like it.

Thats pretty nice


my local haunt is here:

http://jackandtonys.com/

they have a pretty sizeable list too

[Dylan]

Going here on Saturday: http://www.theflatironroom.com

Check out the whisky list. I don't think I've ever seen anything like it.

Awesome.

The Flatiron District in Manhattan was named after the Flatiron Building (23rd St.)

http://www.metropolitanpropertygroup.com/images/areas/38.jpg

[Archie F. Swin]

Has anyone had anything from Balcones distillery in Texas?

[Pasta Little Brioni]

You ever get whiskey dick pawn?

[rico]

So a couple weeks ago, I received a groomsman gift from the groom. It was a bottle of Hennessy. I have never had Hennessy before. On the bottle, it says it is cognac. I have heard of cognac several times, but (and I am somewhat embarrassed to admit this) I have no idea what it is. I opened the bottle and smelled it and it smells like whiskey. Is cognac a type of whisky????

[lawrenceRaider]

This stuff is phenomenal.

http://www.nickollsandperks.co.uk/images/products/715362NVBND.jpg

Got some of this from a guy in Chicago. Really nice.

http://www.whisky.dk/images/Koval_Rye_Single_Barrel-_Whiskey_Chicago_40_alc-p.jpg

[Ming the Merciless]

You ever get whiskey dick pawn?

Abaolutely

Theres a fine line between good whisky dick and bad whisky dick IMO

something around 6-7 whiskies is where the line is

good whisky dick you can fuck like a beast and not cum and stay hard forever and she will literally have to beat your cock and suck and fuck it super hard to get you to blow yyour load


bad whisky dick....you can either never cum or you actually lose your wood

I try to ride the line of real good whisky dick, around 6 whiskies

[Ming the Merciless]

So a couple weeks ago, I received a groomsman gift from the groom. It was a bottle of Hennessy. I have never had Hennessy before. On the bottle, it says it is cognac. I have heard of cognac several times, but (and I am somewhat embarrassed to admit this) I have no idea what it is. I opened the bottle and smelled it and it smells like whiskey. Is cognac a type of whisky????

No,

Cognac is a type of brandy (grape based alcohol)

Most every place it is called brandy, except for one particular spot in France , if it is made there...it gets to be called Cognac.

Kinda like how only whisky made a certain way in Scotland gets the title of Scotch.

Cognac / Brandy is really really good...probably deserving of a thread.....

If any one of you assholes ever comes and visits me, I live VERY near one of the premier Brandy makers in the world....and have access to some rela good cheap brandy.

[Tombstone RJ]

got some Elijah Craig 12 year old bourbon, good little whiskey for the price, I recommend it.

[Tombstone RJ]

Also, Tin Cup whiskey made in Colorado is quality stuff...

[Indian Chief]

I've been wanting to try Yellow Spot. I've heard nothing but good things about it.

[lawrenceRaider]

I've been wanting to try Yellow Spot. I've heard nothing but good things about it.

You should do so. Really great stuff.

Also, I know this isn't whiskey, but Monkey 47 Gin is truly fantastic liquor. Sip it straight up.

http://www.lion-spirits.de/media/image/thumbnail/1226-monkey-47-schwarzwald-dry-gin_720x600.jpg

[Amnorix]

Has anyone had anything from Balcones distillery in Texas?


No, but hella coincidence here. I'd never heard of Balcones until last week when someone mentioned it at a Christmas party. I'm going to get some very soon and will report back.

[Amnorix]

So a couple weeks ago, I received a groomsman gift from the groom. It was a bottle of Hennessy. I have never had Hennessy before. On the bottle, it says it is cognac. I have heard of cognac several times, but (and I am somewhat embarrassed to admit this) I have no idea what it is. I opened the bottle and smelled it and it smells like whiskey. Is cognac a type of whisky????


So for what it's worth, I like Hennessy quite a bit also. It's my favorite cognac. I haven't tried that many, and don't know that much about the whole VS, VSOP and that stuff. I'm mostly into scotch and other whiskeys. The only other cognac I know I've tried off the top of my head is Remy Martin, which I did not care for.

As someone else mentioned, cognac is grape-based, thereby eliminating it from being a whiskey. Whiskeys by definition are a grain-based alcohol.

[Misplaced_Chiefs_Fan]

I don't know, maybe it's because I really learned about drinking scotch spending a week in Glasgow, Scotland a decade or so ago, but I just can't fathom putting ice or soda in a good scotch.

Maybe watering it down helps a less than top-label scotch or maybe it's the scotch snob in me peeking out.

Blame it on the proprietor at the Ben Nevis Pub.

[Amnorix]

I don't know, maybe it's because I really learned about drinking scotch spending a week in Glasgow, Scotland a decade or so ago, but I just can't fathom putting ice or soda in a good scotch.

Maybe watering it down helps a less than top-label scotch or maybe it's the scotch snob in me peeking out.

Blame it on the proprietor at the Ben Nevis Pub.


Yeah, same. I take mine neat. I use rocks for Crown Royal though. I've had the Hennessey both ways. Don't seem to care much either way on that one. For the good scotches though I think it works fine without anything else mixed into the equation.

[Indian Chief]

You should do so. Really great stuff.

Also, I know this isn't whiskey, but Monkey 47 Gin is truly fantastic liquor. Sip it straight up.

http://www.lion-spirits.de/media/image/thumbnail/1226-monkey-47-schwarzwald-dry-gin_720x600.jpg

Gin is my #2 alcohol after whiskey. I'll have to check that out, thanks. My favorite gin at the moment is The Botanist, made by Bruichladdich distillery.

http://www.tanners-wines.co.uk/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/w/g/wg108_2.jpg

[Misplaced_Chiefs_Fan]

http://adventuresinpubs.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/scapa-the-orcadian-16-year-old-whisky.jpg
Scapa: The Orcadian 16 (http://www.adventuresinpubs.co.uk/scapa-the-orcadian-16-year-old/)

This is the latest scotch I've been enjoying. Slight smokey flavor, not too peaty, it's actually one of the smoother scotches I've had lately. If you like a more subtle scotch, I can highly recommend this one.

[CanadaKC]

Nikka whisky from a barrel is brilliant but hard to find. The Japanese apparently asked the Scots for peat, barrels, advice...you name it but the product is stellar and can only be found in certain markets

[Prison Bitch]

Makers 46 right now. Better than regular. Best under $50 for sure.

[Indian Chief]

Scapa 16 is a tremendous summer, sitting by the pool Scotch. I love it.

I haven't had Nikka barrel yet, but I do have the Nikka Coffey Grain and it is delightful. It's a grain whiskey though, so not for everyone. Has a distinctive sweetness that malt doesn't possess.

[bricks]

If you guys ever decide to come to Canada, there are 3 very good whiskeys you might wanna try:

-Gibsons finest
-Crown Royal (In honour of your beloved Royals hehe naw just kidding but that's the name of the whiskey)
-Canadian Club

[ChiefAshhole1056]

Just scored some Forester's Birthday Bourbon. Gonna give to dad for xmas.

I've been stuck on Balvenie 14/15 lately anyways.

[SAUTO]

If you guys ever decide to come to Canada, there are 3 very good whiskeys you might wanna try:

-Gibsons finest
-Crown Royal (In honour of your beloved Royals hehe naw just kidding but that's the name of the whiskey)
-Canadian Club do you seriously think you have to go to Canada to get Canadian club or crown fucking royal?

[lewdog]

If you guys ever decide to come to Canada, there are 3 very good whiskeys you might wanna try:

-Gibsons finest
-Crown Royal (In honour of your beloved Royals hehe naw just kidding but that's the name of the whiskey)
-Canadian Club

Holy shit dumbass, I can get those here next to the Mexican border.

http://i.imgur.com/ORONFrU.jpg?1

FUCK THE BLUE JAYS

[dlphg9]

I got a bottle of Eagle Rare. Has anyone had it before?

[penguinz]

I got a bottle of Eagle Rare. Has anyone had it before?

7 or 10 year? It is decent.

[bricks]

do you seriously think you have to go to Canada to get Canadian club or crown ****ing royal?

Relax settle down, take a deep breath. Everything is okay. Make sure that pulse of yours don't spike too fast and hard because you'll just wear your heart out.

If you don't know how to breathe for relaxation all you do is say to yourself is one one thousand, two one thousand, three one thousand as you inhale and then four one thousand, five one thousand, six one thousand as exhale out.

Just saying top 3 whiskeys is Canada. Of course, you don't have to come to Canada to get it, but then there are other options like Canadian Club or Gibsons finest chacha.

[dlphg9]

7 or 10 year? It is decent.

10 year

[Indian Chief]

10 year

When I was first getting into bourbons, I picked up a bottle of Eagle Rare and really liked it. Now that I've had quite a few more bourbons, I'm not as impressed with ER. There is nothing offensive about it, but it doesn't stand out either. However, it is still a solid whiskey.

[OnTheWarpath15]

When I was first getting into bourbons, I picked up a bottle of Eagle Rare and really liked it. Now that I've had quite a few more bourbons, I'm not as impressed with ER. There is nothing offensive about it, but it doesn't stand out either. However, it is still a solid whiskey.

My thoughts exactly.

[SAUTO]

Relax settle down, take a deep breath. Everything is okay. Make sure that pulse of yours don't spike too fast and hard because you'll just wear your heart out.

If you don't know how to breathe for relaxation all you do is say to yourself is one one thousand, two one thousand, three one thousand as you inhale and then four one thousand, five one thousand, six one thousand as exhale out.

Just saying top 3 whiskeys is Canada. Of course, you don't have to come to Canada to get it, but then there are other options like Canadian Club or Gibsons finest chacha.
Im calmly telling you to shut your fucking suck hole

[MotherfuckerJones]

Bought myself a bottle of 17 year old Wild Turkey for Christmas. It's excellent.

[OnTheWarpath15]

Im calmly telling you to shut your fucking suck hole

LMAO

[bricks]

Im calmly telling you to shut your ****ing suck hole

Stay miserable. It's good for ya!

[bricks]

Im calmly telling you to shut your ****ing suck hole

Please. Who are you anyway?

You don't have the right to tell me what to do. You think I'm gonna listen to you? Hahahaha

And when I don't shut up what are you gonna do about it internet tough guy?

[Boise_Chief]

I want to rep the person that had the hidden gems gift idea thread and the person that came up with the whiskey aging barrels. Its probably my favorite gift

[Easy 6]

My son has become a whisky buff/snob, so for Christmas I got him something called "whisky stones".

You freeze them then put them in your glass, keeps the drink cold but you're still able to drink it "neat" without watering it down.

[Prison Bitch]

My son has become a whisky buff/snob, so for Christmas I got him something called "whisky stones".

You freeze them then put them in your glass, keeps the drink cold but you're still able to drink it "neat" without watering it down.

Cool gift. I see online lots of people prefer it neat. Too strong for me, feels like it's drinking fire. I always let it cut into the ice for 15 min to make it drinkable.

[Easy 6]

Cool gift. I see online lots of people prefer it neat. Too strong for me, feels like it's drinking fire. I always let it cut into the ice for 15 min to make it drinkable.

Not a whisky/scotch guy myself, cant stand it... beers and clears only.

[TLO]

Hi. My name is L'll Smokey and I've never really tried out much alcohol before. Would whisky be a good choice for a n00b?

[SAUTO]

I want to rep the person that had the hidden gems gift idea thread and the person that came up with the whiskey aging barrels. Its probably my favorite gift

Lew I think it was

[dlphg9]

Hi. My name is L'll Smokey and I've never really tried out much alcohol before. Would whisky be a good choice for a n00b?

Everclear is a good starter or Bacardi 151

[SAUTO]

Hi. My name is L'll Smokey and I've never really tried out much alcohol before. Would whisky be a good choice for a n00b?

Mad dog 20/20

[O.city]

Got a bottle of macallan 25 in my stocking. Guess I was a good boy

[MotherfuckerJones]

Abaolutely

Theres a fine line between good whisky dick and bad whisky dick IMO

something around 6-7 whiskies is where the line is

good whisky dick you can **** like a beast and not cum and stay hard forever and she will literally have to beat your cock and suck and **** it super hard to get you to blow yyour load


bad whisky dick....you can either never cum or you actually lose your wood

I try to ride the line of real good whisky dick, around 6 whiskies

Lol. I've always had good whiskey dick. Thank god

[MotherfuckerJones]

Hi. My name is L'll Smokey and I've never really tried out much alcohol before. Would whisky be a good choice for a n00b?

Acquired taste. You'll get used to them. Once you do, you'll really enjoy them.

[Sensual Lardass]

Got a bottle of macallan 25 in my stocking. Guess I was a good boy


Nice!

[dlphg9]

Just tried my Eagle Rare. Not too bad. I like Angels Envy quite a bit better

[Bewbies]

Not a whisky/scotch guy myself, cant stand it... beers and clears only.

Do you wear skirts when you go out too?

[Bewbies]

Hi. My name is L'll Smokey and I've never really tried out much alcohol before. Would whisky be a good choice for a n00b?

Read through this thread, lots of good stuff in here.

Then just try a lot of different stuff. You'll find what you like and hate pretty quickly.

[Miles]

No, but hella coincidence here. I'd never heard of Balcones until last week when someone mentioned it at a Christmas party. I'm going to get some very soon and will report back.

I'm more of a scotch or burbon whiskey drinker but have heard a lot of interesting things about Balcones. The single malt sounds really intersting. Please report back if you find some.

[Miles]

So for what it's worth, I like Hennessy quite a bit also. It's my favorite cognac. I haven't tried that many, and don't know that much about the whole VS, VSOP and that stuff. I'm mostly into scotch and other whiskeys. The only other cognac I know I've tried off the top of my head is Remy Martin, which I did not care for.

As someone else mentioned, cognac is grape-based, thereby eliminating it from being a whiskey. Whiskeys by definition are a grain-based alcohol.

Remy Martin 1738 is a really good cognac that isn't super expensive. Cognac in general is really great after you have been drinking some decent red wine.

[dlphg9]

Just got some Four Roses Single Barrel. Can't wait to crack her open

[Indian Chief]

Angels Envy > Four Roses > Eagle Rare is how I felt about those 3 in particular

[Ming the Merciless]

Got a bottle of macallan 25 in my stocking. Guess I was a good boy

Jealous!

How was it??

[Prison Bitch]

Took me 20yrs of drinking to get to Whiskey. So it's not an easy leap for many. In fact I rarely drank much beer or wine as it was, and little alcohol.

[O.city]

Jealous!

How was it??

Haven't got to open it yet.

[dlphg9]

Angels Envy > Four Roses > Eagle Rare is how I felt about those 3 in particular

I loved Angels Envy