BS: Question about Scotch

Subject: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 28 Feb 12 - 07:23 PM

I thought I was up on my Scotch, but my pal, Gordon, came to visit and we spent a very nice evening getting acquainted with a Scotch I never knew existed. It's called Aberlour. Speyside, single malt and unbelievably smooth.

What do you know about this?

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: michaelr
Date: 28 Feb 12 - 07:50 PM

Aberlour, I believe. I've seen it but not tasted it. My Scoth taste runs to the peaty, so I usually prefer Islay malts.

The Scots have figured out that rich Americans will spend ridiculous amounts of money on "rare" bottles, and are shipping ever more special malts, sherry cask, barrel strength, etc etc over here.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 28 Feb 12 - 07:53 PM

Aberlour... it is a very nice one...and not terribly expensive. Not as exalted..*grin*.. as The MacAllan, but a straightforward dram.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 28 Feb 12 - 07:58 PM

Of course, as this page shows, Aberlour comes in various ages and can get quite pricey. I have had only the ordinary one, but it was just fine.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Rapparee
Date: 28 Feb 12 - 08:20 PM

Japanese, not Americans. The Japanese are buying the expensive Scotches. Americans can't afford it anymore (unless you're in politics).

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 28 Feb 12 - 08:22 PM

So long, Glen Livet, Glen Fiddich and Glen Morangie.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 28 Feb 12 - 09:00 PM

naaaww, Kendall... it's nice to vary things occasionally. I like MacAllan ..or Cragganmore for a late night dram, or Highland Park for being marooned on a desert isle with only ONE kind forever......or, for a shock wake up to the taste buds, a shot of Talisker.

...but, de gustibus non disputandum

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Jeri
Date: 28 Feb 12 - 09:06 PM

I can get it south of the border, Kendall.
I like Laphroaig, and Talisker, and other brands. I just can't drink very much of it these days.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Jack Campin
Date: 28 Feb 12 - 09:23 PM

Aberlour's Squeeze

William Marshall tune, from his 1822 collection.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: maeve
Date: 28 Feb 12 - 09:49 PM

Kendall, Kendall, Kendall. Check your PMs.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: John P
Date: 28 Feb 12 - 09:55 PM

I just finished a bottle of Abelour. I don't remember what kind, but it was about $50. It's definitely on my list to buy again.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Beer
Date: 28 Feb 12 - 09:56 PM

Well, I don't know much about it except two weeks ago a wonderful couple who played music for our coffee house (Jou Tou)gave me a bottle of Aberlour and I just sent the empty to the recycling with a heavy heart. I agree, it was smooth and wonderful.
Adrien

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bobert
Date: 28 Feb 12 - 09:58 PM

WTF???

I heard that you and Al Gore invented Scotch, Capt'n???

No???

B;~)

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 28 Feb 12 - 10:37 PM

I have only begun my personal research into Scotch in recent months. I've tried different blended Scotches, and have decided that I'll only buy glass bottles (most all of the 750ml bottles are glass, but the next size up, that's where the test is. My first test: do they think enough of their product to put it into glass?) Not scientific, perhaps, but it's one way to sort out the way-low end from the moderately priced varieties.

I've seen many types - single malt, unblended varieties, from low lands and highlands and bogs and tips of islands. . . how would some of you who have been drinking Scotch for a while compare the types of Scotch - what draws you to a single malt versus a blended brand?

I have noticed that as I go a bit up in the price that the Scotch seems to be smokier or have more of a taste of the barrel. Not so sweet. It takes several drinks (over time!) to decide if I like that particular type of smokiness, etc. What is it you like about your favorite Scotch?

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Beer
Date: 28 Feb 12 - 10:51 PM

Stay away from plastic bottled Scotch. That is just rot gut stuff.
I have never studied much about scotch. one thing i know is when I drink it and savor the taste i will know if i want to have it again. I have tasted the bottom of the barrel which to me is Cutty Sark and Johnny Walker Red Label for starters and have climbed up the ladder over the years top the single malt brands. I still love to try brands i never heard of and this one is a definite plus.
adrien

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: number 6
Date: 28 Feb 12 - 11:16 PM

Forget Scotch ... the only good whiskies comes from Ireland.

biLL

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Beer
Date: 28 Feb 12 - 11:20 PM

LoL
ad.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Dave Hanson
Date: 29 Feb 12 - 03:53 AM

kendall, if you like Aberlour you should try Aberlour A'Bunadh, it's a cask strength whisky, usually about 60% abv, fabulous.

Incidently A'Bunadh means ' the original '

Dave H

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Big Al Whittle
Date: 29 Feb 12 - 04:26 AM

One of the cheapest single malts in Tesco - comes in a nice cylindrical box. Mild. Of the pricier ones, I like Talisker.

But the best cheap one by a long shot is Sainsbury's single malt Irish Whiskey. About a fiver cheaper than Abelour.

Its all subjective, I guess.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Silas
Date: 29 Feb 12 - 04:41 AM

As a whisky/ whiskey drinker, I have to say that much as I like Irish Whiskey, it does not have and will never have the depth of flavour that you get with a scotch. Its all to do with the way the grist is treated. Most of the flavour comes from the barrel in Irish, not the roasting process in the Sctch.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 29 Feb 12 - 05:26 AM

Caol Ila

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Big Al Whittle
Date: 29 Feb 12 - 05:49 AM

Emphatic words Silas. How can you be sure you've tried them all?

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Silas
Date: 29 Feb 12 - 05:56 AM

I haven't tried them all, but because they dry the germinated barley in ovens rather than over fires, they do not get any flavours from it - this is a deliberate ploicy and is part of the Irish wiskey standard, it ia also triple distliied rather than twice like scotch, so ther eis little scope for flavours apart from aging in barells, but most have a very clean smopoth taste.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Beer
Date: 29 Feb 12 - 07:35 AM

Interesting Silas, thank you.
Ad.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Silas
Date: 29 Feb 12 - 07:55 AM

Tesco Finest Blended Scotch is really one of the best blended whiskies on the market in my opinion, it is more expensive than Grouse or bells but it is a superb quality.

My favourite of all is still the humble Glenmorangie.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 29 Feb 12 - 08:44 AM

The bottom of the bottom is Duggan's Dew o' Kirkintilloch.
Lighter fluid is ambrosia compared to that crap.

The very best whiskey is the one YOU like. I like Jamisons and Jack Daniels, but Aberlour is tops on my list.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: maeve
Date: 29 Feb 12 - 08:49 AM

Slàinte mhath!

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Will Fly
Date: 29 Feb 12 - 08:57 AM

My favourite - Dalwhinnie, a bottle of which is waiting to be opened. I always have a couple of bottles of Glenfiddich handy as well. In my local - not over-supplied with single malts - the options are Glenmorangie and Balvenie. In summer, a Famous Grouse with Canada dry ginger is always refreshing.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 29 Feb 12 - 10:15 AM

Tesco's Islay malt is often rewarding. I sometimes think it may be Bowmore in disguise. While another time it is very pale and redolent of Ardbeg. Both good whiskies, and both costing more than Tesco's are charging for their own brand.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 29 Feb 12 - 12:22 PM

Jacqui said I have a bottle of Glen Livet in the cellar. I haven't looked; what if it's not there?

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Silas
Date: 29 Feb 12 - 12:28 PM

Glenlivet is good.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 29 Feb 12 - 12:50 PM

She's just trying to get you down there again Cap'n.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 29 Feb 12 - 12:55 PM

SRS... I, personally, do not care much for the smokey ones. Heavily peated Scotch just...um... tastes 'polluted'. I prefer brands like Highland Park and such because the variables in taste are not distracted by smoke flavor.
(Talisker is a different thing... it has, I believe, some peat, but whatever it is they do to it beyond that just hits me right....on occasion)

*shrug*.. I don't like beer with fruit flavors added, either.....though it's not exactly the same situation.

Some Scotches are 'delicate' and a lighter flavor,(and I consider Aberlour a fairly light type...good, but not strong) while some have stronger essences from being aged in different wine barrels...etc. I like whisky with 'character', rather than just tasting 'good'.

IF there is somewhere near that does tastings of different types, you can learn your own preferences without the expense of buying many big bottles that don't suit you.

As to blended brands, they are usually an attempt to produced a 'smoother' drink to appeal to a wider crowd which may not even care about nuances.
There are a few blends (like Famous Grouse) which are a bit above the average.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: EBarnacle
Date: 29 Feb 12 - 12:58 PM

I have the remains of a bottle of Cragganmuir that will be shared out when we sell our first wter machine. I will then buy another.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Dave the Gnome
Date: 29 Feb 12 - 01:18 PM

Abelour is often on offer in my Local Morrisons - £20 last time if I remember rightky. Should have bought a dozen :-)

Yes, I like it.

If you like the sweeter, smoother malts you may also like one of my favourite blends - Stewarts cream of the barley. Very reasonable price when you can get it but quite rare nowadays. Nowhere near as good as Abelour of course but a very good 'everyday' Scotch.

DtG

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bert
Date: 29 Feb 12 - 02:52 PM

I used to like Glenfiddich but my taste has changed and now I prefer Jim Beam.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: GUEST,Allan Conn
Date: 29 Feb 12 - 02:57 PM

Another two good ones are Glenfarclas and Old Pulteney. I did once take a bottle of Aberlour to a whisky tasting session, admittedly because it was so cheap, and it got voted the best whisky of the evening! A tip for toursits. Our nearest distillery is Glenkinchie in East Lothian which is a pleasant enough dram in itself - however it is a great place to visit. Often at the end of a tour you get a complimentary glass of the distillery whisky included. At Glenkinchie however you get to a wee bar at the end of the tour which is stocked with an ample selection of different whiskies - and basically as long as it isn't too busy you can have quite a few. I had six different whiskies on my first visit and they said "oh you're not going already when I headed for the door" :-)

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Q (Frank Staplin)
Date: 29 Feb 12 - 03:07 PM

Highland Park has become my favorite, because it is incredably smooth, although I won't refuse other good single malts.
Had a bottle of Highland Park 18 year this Holiday season. It was a gift, I do with the 12-15.

I got curious and looked at their website. The vintage Highland Park at 2000-3000 pounds! must be for the Gates and Buffets and Carlos Slim. A 50-year old at 10,000 pounds is surely for the gods.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Nigel Parsons
Date: 29 Feb 12 - 03:38 PM

For those who missed it first time around nunc est bibendum is a quiz where all the answers are whiskies (or terms involving 'scotch') and includes various brands, blends, types & malts.

Cheers!!

Nigel

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Sandy Mc Lean
Date: 29 Feb 12 - 03:43 PM

Although Cape Breton is as "Scotch" as is Scotland they can't use that word for their single malts. However deriving from the same Highland moonshining heritage you may find GlenBreton a special treat.
GlenBreton

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Beer
Date: 29 Feb 12 - 04:06 PM

Enjoyed the video. Thanks Sandy.
ad.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Big Al Whittle
Date: 29 Feb 12 - 05:03 PM

Just checked the shelves at Tesco. The cheapest single malt was Glen Moray £17.74 - Abelour has rocketed up to £29 plus.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 29 Feb 12 - 06:46 PM

Just curious why 3-4 people type "Abelour" rather than "Aberlour". It really does have 2 'r's.... A Google search gets very different results.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: GUEST,Allan Conn
Date: 29 Feb 12 - 07:11 PM

Aberlour was still on the the cheaper ones in our Sainsburys. Can't remember exactly but it was early £20s

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Louie Roy
Date: 29 Feb 12 - 07:28 PM

My favorite scotch is called Sheep Dip it's an 8 year old scotch and I'm sure is one of the cheaper scotches at $40.00 a fifth but is in my opinion excellent.Kendall I nver had a chance to try your brand but I'm guessing it is hard to beat at any price.For a nice refreshing and relaxing drink pour 2 ounzes of scoth in a highball glass and top it off wit 2 ounzes of 2% milk or half and half.Try it you might like it and can be ordered in a cocktail lounge by askig for a moose Milk Louie

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Sandy Mc Lean
Date: 29 Feb 12 - 07:58 PM

My grandfather's brand was Grand MacNish. I have not heard of it in many years but I see here that Hemmingway was also a loyal fan.
Grand MacNish
My long departed grandfather would tell you all that the only thing to mix with good Scotch is spit! :-}

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 29 Feb 12 - 08:52 PM

Ralfy gave Aberlour a 91 out of 100. Not bad.
I'm glad I'm not the only one who adds a bit of water to it.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 29 Feb 12 - 10:25 PM

This information is very helpful, thanks! Kendall, I add a ice cubes and sip so the ice is as good as water. The latest I brought home was Johnny Walker Red label and I don't like it as well as a couple of others in the same general price range. Ballantines is quite smoky (interesting to read about the roasting of the grain - that explains a lot). Of the ones I've tried so far, Famous Grouse had the taste I liked best. But I'll make a short list and try a couple of the others listed here. Each liquor store has a different offering, so if I stumble upon affordable bottles, I've give them a try.

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: GUEST,Seamus Kennedy
Date: 01 Mar 12 - 01:43 AM

My two all-time favorites (until I change my mind) are Lagavulin and Bushmills Black Label....not mixed.
I like the smoky peatiness of the Lagavulin, and the sweet fruity overtones of the sherry cask in the Bushmills.
There's also a very nice Irish peated single malt called Connemara, made in the Cooley Mountains in Co. Louth.
While in Scotland last year, I visited the Tomatin Distillery. A very nice dram, but mostly for the Japanese market. Smooth nonetheless.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Silas
Date: 01 Mar 12 - 02:34 AM

Ice - good god.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Big Al Whittle
Date: 01 Mar 12 - 04:18 AM

I always loved that line by Eddie Condon

'Gene Krupa's drums trickle through the piece like bourbon over ice cubes.'

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: scouse
Date: 01 Mar 12 - 05:21 AM

It's so nice of a beautiful lady to buy me a bottle of the Aberlour 12 year old every year on my Birthday, which is in December and that of course sets me up nicely for Christmas and the New year festivities..
As Aye,
Phil.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 01 Mar 12 - 08:49 AM

I was bought a bottle of Dallas Dhu last Christmas, and let me tell you. I was gobsmacked. I have had 2 wee drams from it, and it's my 'Special events' bottle now.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bruce MacNeill
Date: 01 Mar 12 - 09:01 AM

I had "Any bottle of Scotch old enough to vote" on my Christmas list. My son, who doesn't drink, had to ask questions but we settled on " If it sounds like it was named after a golf course, or is Glen-something that's a start. He gave me a bottle of Glenfarclas 25. I think that's aged in Sherry barrels and has a sweetness to it but it's a good sipping whisky. Generally, Glenlivet is fine with me. For a blended, I generally drink Chivas because it is generally available and generally dependable. Around here, redneck territory, I frequently can't get better than Dewars but at least Dewars has no carcinogens so I can drink it as a health food. Someone above mentioned "Sheep Dip" and I always wanted to try that if for no other reason than the name but it was very expensive when I saw it in the states.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: maeve
Date: 01 Mar 12 - 09:28 AM

Stilly, try the single malts, at least, with a dribble of good water in place of ice. The temperature difference and the dilution of melting ice decrease the richness of flavor for me...every ten years or so when we can afford a bottle. :)

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Louie Roy
Date: 01 Mar 12 - 10:23 AM

Bruce Sheep Dip is expensive but worth every penny   Louie

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Ed T
Date: 01 Mar 12 - 10:46 AM

Last year a few friends joined me in a Scotch tasting event.
We enjoyed trying the many brands.

There was a big plate of Hors d'oeuvres, meat on crackers. They were very good.

Each time someone approached the plate to take one, my friend would say, "that was the best haggis I have ever tasted". When they oveheard this, each person walked away with a look of uncertainity.

(Maybe I posted this before. The scotch impacted my memory)

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 01 Mar 12 - 10:56 AM

When we visited the Glenmorangie distillery we were offered a dram of it, and the lady who did the tour suggested a bit of water. Now, how does that differ from an ice cube?
We Yanks prefer cold drinks to warm drinks. Get over it.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Silas
Date: 01 Mar 12 - 10:59 AM

iTS YOUR DRINK AND ITS YOUR MONEY AND IF YOU WANT TO WASTE GOOD SCOTCH BY STICKING ICE IN IT ITS UP TO YOU - BUT JEEZE - WHAT A WASTE.

(Sorry about the caps)

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: EBarnacle
Date: 01 Mar 12 - 11:00 AM

If the blender had wanted to dilute the elixer of life, the water would have been added at the distillery.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Jon Corelis
Date: 01 Mar 12 - 11:02 AM

My top vote for Lagavulin, followed closely by Talisker, then Highland Park. The first two insanely expensive, but as an ancient poet pointed out, money ain't gonna do your dead ass no good.

Jon Corelis
Being here has caused my sorrow: a Scottish song

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 01 Mar 12 - 11:13 AM

(not ALL of us Yanks require ALL drinks to be cold... *grin*. 'Good' beer/ale and 'good' Scotch are diminished by over chilling... but to each his own)


the 'experts' claim that a small amount of water allows the odor & flavor to be released more completely.....but the followin old joke is a warning.

"Old joke:

Two Scotsmen are talking. Giok has been to visit Andrew, and is about to leave.

Andrew- "So, Giok, my friend....would ye tak a dram afore ye go?"

Giok- "Och..and I don't mind if I do!"

Andrew gets a glass, pours some Scotch, and then adds some water and hands it to Giok, who sips at it.....then sips again, with a quizzical look on his face.

Andrew says, with a touch of pique.."Now, Giok, the whisky- it's not to your liking?"

"Oh, no...no....it's fine....I was wondering though..."

"Wondering? wondering about what?"

"Weel...when you poured it, did you add the water or the whisky first?"

"Ah, Giok..ye were right here...ye saw me do it! And I always put the whisky in first."

"Oh...right, right...of course! I'll be comin' to it, then!"

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Beer
Date: 01 Mar 12 - 11:23 AM

O.K., now there are questions about water or ice being added and I can understand as I have done both. With the cheap scotch I always add a little water of 2 ice cubes to take away the harshness. But I must ask this question. What is it with adding MILK? Sounds like a terrible thing to do, but can someone give an answer?
Ad.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 01 Mar 12 - 11:28 AM

".. can someone give an answer?"

Sure... if they ruin tea & coffee that way, why not everything else? Or maybe they own cows...

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Beer
Date: 01 Mar 12 - 11:40 AM

Not exactly the answer I'm looking for. Haha!!, good one.
ad.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: eddie1
Date: 01 Mar 12 - 11:51 AM

Re Kendall's question about the differnce between water and an ice cube - ask the captain of the Titanic!

Without wishing to be boringly technical, most whiskys (and whiskeys) go through a process called "chill-filtering", This effectively kills of the living enzymes in whisky and ensures uniformity whether a whisky is bought in the UK or New Zealand. Adding water only dilutes the strength of the whisky. Ice will certainly kill off some of the more delicate flavours.

You can buy whiskies marked "Not Chill-filtered" where the flavour and after-taste is altered by adding water.

There is no such thing as "the best" whisky. We all have different tastes and even these change according to our moods.

Generally I prefer single malts but I make one exception. Grants, makers of "Stand Fast" and other good paint-removers, produce an excellent blended whisky which is laid up in casks previously used for real ale. Beautiful taste! https://www.grantswhisky.com/uk/discover-our-whiskies/ale-cask-finish/

Happy drinking!

Eddie

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Will Fly
Date: 01 Mar 12 - 11:52 AM

lady who did the tour suggested a bit of water. Now, how does that differ from an ice cube?

Captain, the difference is this:

Water - particularly a little spring water at the same temperature as the malt - can bring out the flavour of the malt.

Ice deadens the flavour and kills the aroma - no harm, I suppose, for a blended whisky mixed with a dry ginger, but not good for an expensive malt.

You Yanks may well prefer drinks cold, on the whole, but not all drinks taste good when cold. Would you drink a good red Burgundy or Bordeaux wine which had been chilled? If you do, you're killing all the flavours of the wine. Your choice - and your taste loss.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Silas
Date: 01 Mar 12 - 11:56 AM

Chill filtering is common for the US market, but almost unheard of in the UK. Th eidea is that if it is chill filtered it does not go hazy or cloudy when you put ice in it. No serious UK scotch drinker would dream of putting ice in malt whisky, it ia akin to putting custard on your sunday dinner.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Jon Corelis
Date: 01 Mar 12 - 12:02 PM

Before I first visited Britain, I was a little worried, since I had heard that in Britain they drink their beer at room temperature, and I like my beer ice cold. But it turned out to be ok, since when I got there I discovered that in Britain, room temperature is ice cold.

As for the water, I like malt Scotch with about half as much chilled, still mineral water in it, Evian for choice.

Jon Corelis
Euripides' Hippolytos: A performance version with music

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 01 Mar 12 - 12:02 PM

Cap'n that was cask strength you had in your glass that day. You need to add water to that.
Apart from which I always add a wee splash of water to a dram, it releases the flavours. Try 'nosing' it both before and after adding water, and see the difference.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 01 Mar 12 - 12:40 PM

What is the basic ingredient of whiskey? WATER.

Let's make a deal, you drink it to suit you and I'll drink it to suit me.

In other words, You don't should on me, I don't should on you.

At least, I don't consider Budweiser real beer!

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Sandy Mc Lean
Date: 01 Mar 12 - 12:41 PM

I looked over the single malt selection at the local government store this morning. There were 250 ml bottles of Glen Breton Ice selling at $49.95 each, about $200.00 a liter. I bought a bottle of their rum instead.
Glen Breton Ice

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 01 Mar 12 - 12:44 PM

I have a Brother who thinks Black Velvet is good whiskey, and he makes it better by adding Diet Pepsi! Now, there's a REAL colonial!

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 01 Mar 12 - 12:47 PM

MY brother used to drink "4 Roses".. he finally gave up everything alcoholic....

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 01 Mar 12 - 12:55 PM

I have no right to tell him he is wrong, and he has no right to call me a snob. We have different opinions and that is that.

I like my Guinness cold too.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Silas
Date: 01 Mar 12 - 12:56 PM

Hey Kendall, you drink it just how you like it mate, its just a shame that some of us think you may be missing out on the real and subtle flavours that get burned out when it is too cold.

I was in a bar in Bushmills a few months ago. A party of people, their nationality is not really relavent, came into the bar. Bushmills do a 21 year old whiskey that is about £25.00 a shot. This guy ordered a round of these that is six glasses and asked for them on the rocks. The barman, and all credit to him, said that unfortunatly, the ice was a little too warm at the moment and asked if the customer would have it without! They did, and they came back for more.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 01 Mar 12 - 01:07 PM

Well I guess if you ask a question, you're not guaranteed to like all the answers you get.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 01 Mar 12 - 01:20 PM

I asked for opinions on Scotch, not opinions about how I take it.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Ed T
Date: 01 Mar 12 - 01:40 PM

I have read that the relatively low priced and not that bad tasting "Famous Grouse" blended is the biggest selling whisky within Scotland.

True?

Cutty Sark Scotch blended is not my cup of tea. But, it seems like it was so for USA President LB Johnson, a president who some referred to as "raw and boisterous".
Cutty Sark

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 01 Mar 12 - 02:24 PM

Well hush my mouth.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 01 Mar 12 - 02:45 PM

A great name doesn't mean a great product.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Dave Hanson
Date: 01 Mar 12 - 02:56 PM

My personal favourite is Ardbeg Uigeadail from Islay, 54.2% abv. fabulous whisky.

My current bottle of Aberlour A'bunadh is 60.1% abv. both of these I drink neat, the only acceptable thing to put in a good malt whisky is...............another.

Dave H

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Dave Hanson
Date: 01 Mar 12 - 03:00 PM

The actor Johnny Depp although teetotal is reputed to order a glass of Lagavulin just to smell it, no report of who gets it afterwards though.

Dave H

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Q (Frank Staplin)
Date: 01 Mar 12 - 03:02 PM

A good sour mash bourbon never should be taken with ice.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 01 Mar 12 - 03:30 PM

George Dickel No 12. Thanks to Dick, I developed a love of this Tennessee Sour mash whisky. Find it hard to buy in thr UK though.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Beer
Date: 01 Mar 12 - 03:36 PM

Set up another case bartender! The best thing for a case of nerves is a case of Scotch.
W. C. Fields

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 01 Mar 12 - 07:46 PM

Q, who says so?

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Louie Roy
Date: 01 Mar 12 - 08:00 PM

Beer you asked why add milk to good scotch. It add adds a smooth taste that is unmatched and before you knock it too much try it you might like it. Another thing if you have ulcers it is a drink your stomach can handle with no after effects or heart burn of course if you don't over do it Louie Roy

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Tattie Bogle
Date: 01 Mar 12 - 08:16 PM

I'm with Dave Hanson on the A'Bunadh - and I love Robin Laing's song about it! I might add a wee bit spring water since it's cask strength! And if you go to a whisky tasting you'll find how different the same whisky can taste neat and then with progressive amounts of water added.

John Mackenzie mentions Caol Ila, but there are so many of them! On holiday in Islay we got presented with a "menu" at the bar of all the Islay whiskies, and I think the various Caol Ilas took up 2 whole pages!

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Joe_F
Date: 01 Mar 12 - 08:18 PM

"The ice was a little too warm at the moment" -- diplomacy par excellence! That got & called for a nip of room-temperature Scotch -- only Dewar's, I'm afraid, but it's the thought that counts.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 01 Mar 12 - 08:30 PM

"..diplomacy par excellence!"

I saw a slightly different diplomacy once...I also like good Irish


Many years ago, before I learned about good Scotch I was in Los Angeles, Cal, for a meeting, and after the meeting a group of us went to a 'daylight' bar in this fancy hotel..(wide open, lighted...lots of potted plants)...and up comes this waiter in a red jacket..a distinguished fellow with white hair and an English accent....and enquires what we would like to drink.."Ahh.." says I, "I don't suppose you have Irish?"..

"Well, not really, " replies the VEDDY formal fellow, with a slight twinkle in his eye..."..we have Bushmills.."

so I grinned at him and ordered a brandy....

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Beer
Date: 01 Mar 12 - 08:33 PM

Louie,
I had no intentions of knocking it. I just wanted an explanation. Thanks and I will give it a try next time I get a bottle.
I mean it. Thanks.
Adrien

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: GUEST,Allan Conn
Date: 02 Mar 12 - 04:48 AM

"Adding water only dilutes the strength of the whisky."

I've found that on visits to distilleries it has been generally recommenended that the product is best taken with just a small dash of water. Supposedly the small infusion of water opens up the aromas and taste. Personally I prefer to take it completely straight - and no doubt others prefer just a bit of whisky with their water. Ones own perogative I suppose. I wouldn't think of putting anything expensive in a whisky mac though. The ginger overpowers the whisky anyway so a bog standard blend will suffice. I believe whisky and coke is popular amongst young drinkers in Spain. Again I suspect you'd might as well put any bog standard blend in that too.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: GUEST,Patsy
Date: 02 Mar 12 - 05:56 AM

This is another drink I have no idea about other than Grouse because once a year coming up to Christmas it is advertised on television so often. I remember receiving a miniature bottle of an 8 year old real Scotch Whiskey once as a gift that was really nice and smooth. But to go and buy I would not have a clue. As I am not familiar with the taste of various whiskey, brandy or vodka brands I tend to get the cheap supermarket brands. It seems to me that men have a better sense of taste when buying spirits.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: deepdoc1
Date: 02 Mar 12 - 10:31 AM

Another vote for Lagavulin. Macallan is good. Haven't tried Aberlour yet. One thing I've noticed is that Scotch is made much better when brung by a friend.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 02 Mar 12 - 12:44 PM

With ice, water, or straight, like Kendall says, that is up to the individual for their preference. And ice is the model I've been exposed to, but I'll give it a try the other ways. Shouting (all caps) is not a really tactful way to participate in a conversation, Silas. I recognize that at the end of the drink I wish I could taste it better, so probably with a little water is the next way to try it, for a consistent taste from first to last. Thanks, maeve.

My wine preferences are to find good-tasting varieties under $10 a bottle. A lot of the high-priced labels regularly lose to the moderately priced wines in blind taste tests. I poke through the various brands and prefer to find European and other off-shore wines that have an actual place they come from (a specific river valley, usually, not the blended grapes from all of California and Oregon, for example). Red is usually room temperature, white is usually chilled. Rose usually chilled. I don't care for really sweet red wines. I like the white Kabinett German wines in the summer and there are some good US labels, I pick up Fetzer's white zinfandel or gewurztraminer if I don't see a German wine I want (or can afford).

I don't really care for the bottle of Scotch I picked up most recently so it will stay in the cabinet waiting for a drinker who likes that level of smokiness. I'll take a list, gleaned from this discussion, to see what else is out there that is in my budget.

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Silas
Date: 02 Mar 12 - 12:51 PM

"Shouting (all caps) is not a really tactful way to participate in a conversation, Silas."

I did not realise that I had the caps lock on when I was typing and could not be arsed to retype the bloody thing, and I apologised for it, if you actually bothered to read trhe post yopu would have seen that.






Tit.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 02 Mar 12 - 12:54 PM

Here is what I am faced with right now

All bottles are getting low.

I got the Springbank for Christmas, and am savoring it s-l-o-w--y.
It has the tiniest hint of peat, and an unusual 'saltiness'...but it an exceptional whisky! This only the 2nd time I have had it, and I will drop hints for future occasions.

(I also have a half-full bottle of some strange animal called "GlenGyle", 8 yrs. old... which simply says 'malt whisky' ..bottled in Scotland. It was also a present, and is used only in emergencies. Kinda rough stuff.)

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 02 Mar 12 - 01:08 PM

Attitude adjustment can involve a drink, resulting a mellow attitude, Silas. Try it before you type next time. I saw your remark - but better to simply go back and retype with the caps off, no?

Bill D, you're reading books about Scotch or use them as reference? Based upon photos I've seen of your beer bottle collection, you must have an entire library of beer books!

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 02 Mar 12 - 01:23 PM

SRS... I use them as reference mostly - to get an idea of what I 'might' like...but I also just browse them at times. When I started there WAS no internet with reviews of everything imaginable.

And yes... I have several books on beer also. I also used to subscribe to a beer magazine. The beer bottle collection is really getting out of hand, and I have just begun a project to photograph it and get rid of the 'hard copy'. *sigh* ..hobbies are easier to start than to stop....

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Silas
Date: 02 Mar 12 - 01:23 PM

SRS no.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Jim McLean
Date: 02 Mar 12 - 01:36 PM

I drink Lagavulin with about three quarters whisky to one quarter water. There is an old Gaelic saying when translated states 'choose your company before choosing your drink'
I have always found this very true in the past as a whisky fuelled night can result in great singing and playing or a punch up!

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 02 Mar 12 - 01:42 PM

(In the photo, the book on the left is older, and gives a lot of history and sen-technical info, as well as lists & reviews of well-known brands. The others are illustrated check lists and brief reviews....one by Michael Jackson (No, not that one - this one, who died a few years ago

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: maeve
Date: 02 Mar 12 - 01:46 PM

Stilly, thanks for taking my suggestion in the spirit I intended it. It's none of my business how anyone handles drinks or food or anything else of the sort; I do like friends to enjoy their experiences to the fullest.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 02 Mar 12 - 01:48 PM

"...a whisky fuelled night..."

I don't have those... for whatever reason, I have never enjoyed any drink after a certain point. 3 beers or 1-2 shots of whisky is about my limit. I guess I am just lucky...and it's cheaper!

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 02 Mar 12 - 03:53 PM

Bill D, it's always nice if you can remember the pleasure of the good drink the evening before, not suffer through a headache the next morning! I hope, when the time comes, you'll recycle that hard copy responsibly. :)

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 02 Mar 12 - 06:30 PM

LOL... yup... it goes either to a collector, or to the local recycle authority. (*we have an excellent one...they take almost everything!*)

(I HATE hangovers... it's been many years since I had a serious one.)

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Jon Corelis
Date: 02 Mar 12 - 10:19 PM

I follow W. C. Fields's rule: not a drop between 5 am and noon.

Jon Corelis
The sweet nightingale: A Cornish song

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Louie Roy
Date: 02 Mar 12 - 10:54 PM

I only drink anymore when I'm alone or with somebody. Louie Roy

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Long Firm Freddie
Date: 03 Mar 12 - 03:44 AM

This is a commercial site that has loads of information about Whisky (and Whiskey):

Royal Mile Whiskies

They explain all about the different whisky regions and the individual distilleries. They say it's fine to drink whisky any way that you like, but also tell you how to taste whisky like the blenders do.

They stock single malts from about £20 a bottle up to a 70 year old Glenlivet at £13,000 - limited to one bottle per customer!

The staff get to try free samples supplied by the distilleries and their tasting notes are posted on the site. Nice work if you can get it...

They have six varieties of Aberlour from £27 to £185 - they all sound delicious!

Enjoy!

LFF

PS No, I'm not on commission or related to the organisation in any way - alas.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 03 Mar 12 - 09:07 AM

I rarely drink at all, and even then, a shot of Scotch just before dinner. However, if Gordon or Dani are about.....It's lucky that I see either of them so infrequently.

Who was it who said, "I know my limit, but I always pass out before I reach it"?

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 03 Mar 12 - 01:20 PM

Wan drink maks a new man o' ye.
An' then the new man wants a drink an aw.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Sandy Mc Lean
Date: 03 Mar 12 - 02:20 PM

Good one John, and when the old man wakes up next morning he has someone to blame!
         Slainte Mhath!

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 03 Mar 12 - 02:35 PM

Oops, just noticed errant apostrophe. Humble apologies.

--nipped by a mud elf

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: gnu
Date: 03 Mar 12 - 03:30 PM

Apostrophes are not a requirement among friends.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Big Al Whittle
Date: 03 Mar 12 - 09:47 PM

I never did understand the percentages on the side of the bottle - is it important? What does it tell you?

I can't help feeling its a pity to confine this thread to whisky - there are so many wonderful experiences to be had with wine, and brandy and other stuff that I don't know about I suppose.

When you're in in Spain and you uncork a rioja, and that fabulous tarry smell...that promises a wonderful robust taste of Spain itself. Theakstons Old peculiar - quaffing a glass, freezing your nuts off, overlooking a fabulous view like Monsall Head - perhaps with a few Kettles crisps, and some wonderful friends for company.

Booze....you wrote my life.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Big Al Whittle
Date: 03 Mar 12 - 09:48 PM

Just the good bits....

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 03 Mar 12 - 10:32 PM

Okay, I picked up a bottle of the Famous Grouse, much better than the Johnny Red Label - that can stay in the cupboard for visitors who like the smoke. I added a little water, but it seems too warm at room temperature. I'm going to have to wean myself off the cold drink by adding at least one cube, guys.

I saw several of the others, but I'd left my list behind. Next purchase I'll try a single malt.

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 03 Mar 12 - 10:39 PM

Grouse is a fine start... I would never turn a dram of it down.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: GUEST,Jim Knowledge
Date: 04 Mar 12 - 06:53 AM

I `ad that Jock McTavish, the single malts connoisseur, in my cab the other day. `ed come down to the Smoke to do some whisky judging. `ed obviously `ad a good time cos `is sporran was all round `is backside.
I said, "Morning Jock, it looks like you did the business last night."   
`e said, "Aye Jimmie there were some bonnie drams to be taken."
I said, "Tell me Jock, as man with your experience, what do you reckon is the best whisky then?"
`e said, "The best whisky laddie? It`s the cheapest!!"

Whaddam I Like??

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 04 Mar 12 - 01:31 PM

I have a bottle of Johnnie Walker double black that I'd give him.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 04 Mar 12 - 01:45 PM

ah 'Jim', Jock McTavish obviously never had a Bottle of the Best

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: gnu
Date: 04 Mar 12 - 02:30 PM

I was at a pub last night and two large ladies were seated nearby and talking with very thick accents. I asked, "Are you girls from Scotland?" One said, "Wales you idiot." I apologized and asked, "Are you whales from Scotland?"

Yes, I know that has nothing to do with thread.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 04 Mar 12 - 03:02 PM

Add cold water. I keep a wee bottle of spring water in the fridge for this very purpose. Tap water is not suitable for the job.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Dave Hanson
Date: 04 Mar 12 - 05:34 PM

I'm just having a nightcap, a very large Ardbeg 10year old, gorgeous.

Dave H

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Paul Burke
Date: 04 Mar 12 - 05:51 PM

Al- you bin drinkin' zoider? I've never known you so romantic before...

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Tattie Bogle
Date: 04 Mar 12 - 05:51 PM

Might break out the Glen Garioch (pron Geerie) later!

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bainbo
Date: 04 Mar 12 - 05:57 PM

I found this whisky taste map a useful guide when I came across it propped up in a couple of bars in Glasgow. I didn't need any encouragement to try something new, but this gives you confidence to order something that's likely to be to your taste.

On the chart, Aberlour is veering towards rich, rather than light, but delicate, rather than smoky.

I once explained to a barman that I found the peaty Islay malts too overpowering, so he pointed me in the direction of Old Pulteney, and it has now become my malt of choice - especially when it's on "Rollback" at Asda, as it is at the moment; £21 instead of £27 or £28. But I've enjoyed some of the other Highlands or Speysides when I can get them: Springbank, Glen Ord and Oban, which I first tried when we were staying not too far from Oban. Like wine, it aways seems to taste better in the place it's come from!

I find whisky is good for any ailment, as well, not just colds. It doesn't actually cure anything, but after two or three I stop caring that I've got it ...

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Beer
Date: 04 Mar 12 - 05:57 PM

If yer not to far away I'll come over.
ad.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bainbo
Date: 04 Mar 12 - 06:01 PM

...when I came across it propped up in a couple of bars in Glasgow.

I should make it clear it was the map which was propped up in a bar. Not me. Not to start with, any

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bainbo
Date: 04 Mar 12 - 06:02 PM

way

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 04 Mar 12 - 06:35 PM

...ahh, but Springbank is not a Speyside! It is a Campbelltown... one of only 3-4... most of which come FROM the Springbank distillery....but is is wonderful!

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 04 Mar 12 - 07:05 PM

That whisk taste map that Bainbo posted set me back a bit... it lists Highland Park up in the middle of 'smokiness'.... but I never really thought of it as smokey at all. Now, I see reviews that say: "Highland Park distills their single malt Scotch from hand-turned malt, a considerably aromatic peat .."

Perhaps it is the type of peat that keeps it tolerable to my non-expert taste buds.... I just know that I do not care for Lagavulin or Laphroig.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 04 Mar 12 - 07:36 PM

A little smoke is okay, or the flavor of the barrel, but that is an interesting map to help characterize what it is we've been discussing here- and avoid something that is over the top in a particular flavor. I'll put a copy of that with my little list of your recommendations.

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 04 Mar 12 - 09:08 PM

This has become a very interesting thread. Thanks all.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 05 Mar 12 - 01:14 AM

I agree. Thanks for starting it, Kendall. I've learned a lot.

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: GUEST,Patsy
Date: 05 Mar 12 - 08:04 AM

The good thing about alcohol that you don't like, it can be added to the cooking.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bainbo
Date: 05 Mar 12 - 10:02 AM

"Alcohol that you don't like"

No, I'm sorry. You've lost me.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Nigel Parsons
Date: 05 Mar 12 - 10:24 AM

The good thing about alcohol that you don't like, it can be added to the cooking.

Bad move. Never use wines for cooking that you would not otherwise drink. Apart from anything else it stops you getting the perk of attacking the bottle while you cook!

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: GUEST,songbob
Date: 05 Mar 12 - 04:07 PM

I don't drink as much whisky as I used to (and I never was a big toper anyway). My stomach rebels. However, I can take a little now and then, and I do drink hard cider (Strongbow and Woodchuck Dark and Dry are a coupe of good 'uns) and rum & coke (or Dark & Stormy -- dark rum and ginger beer) on hot days.

That said, my favorites have been the less-peaty ones, of which Knockando is my particular favorite. I've had MacCallan (sp?) and Cragganmore and Oban and (of course) Laphroig. In fact, we once made it a project to at least taste each of the brands mentioned in "Bottle of the Best", though we avoided, as the singer did, Teacher's, Grant's or Haig. Of the ones we did taste, Glen Farclas was top-notch, the others just okay.

Probably because my stomach demands it, I put a sliver of an ice cube (never a whole one!) in my glass. It seems to smooth things out.

I have a bottle of Tobermoray (sp?) unopened, which we're holding till we have our ritual watching of "I Know Where I'm Going," which features radio-phone messages to the Isle of Tobermoray (as well as a delightful ceilidh scene and snippets of folksong here and there). What will we encounter when we taste Tobermoray? Is it peaty, smoky, strong or smooth or what? Will I like it?

Thanks

Bob Clayton
http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1866385923/hokey-dokey-music-cd-project

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Elmore
Date: 05 Mar 12 - 04:27 PM

Times are tough. Used to drink Red Robin (Irish) or The Dalmore. Now we drink Passport with a teaspoonful of Drambuie.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Elmore
Date: 05 Mar 12 - 04:39 PM

Oops, meant Redbreast. Been drinking too much Passport.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: EBarnacle
Date: 06 Mar 12 - 12:48 AM

Bob, an authentic Dark and Stormy can only be made with Glosing's Black Seal Rum and ginger beer. Lesser rums just don't make it.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: EBarnacle
Date: 06 Mar 12 - 12:49 AM

Oops, that should be Gosling's etc.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: John MacKenzie
Date: 06 Mar 12 - 05:02 AM

Hmm, the combination of Gosling and Barnacle are difficult to resist. So I won't
Did you feel like a silly goose after that typo?

HONK!!

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Dave Hanson
Date: 06 Mar 12 - 02:43 PM

Of course guest songbob meant Laphroaig, one of the finest whiskies ever made.

Dave H

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: GUEST,Songbob
Date: 06 Mar 12 - 02:49 PM

I know about the Gosling's, but the true, truer Dark and Stormy also uses the local ginger beer of Bermuda, I understand.

And the true, truer, truest Dark and Stormy is ONLY drunk at the conclusion of the Miami-Bermuda yacht race.

And since I don't know when that is, nor the label of the ginger beer (and probably couldn't get it in the States anyway), I don't feel all that compelled to use Gosling's Black Label for the rum, as long as it's decent (and dark) rum. I particularly like Barbancourt (Haitian) rum, although I got a bottle of a very nice rum called Flor De Cana, which I've been verra, verra keerful about drinking too quickly, lest it all go bye-bye.

But does anyone know what that Tobermoray Scotch will be like?

Bob

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 06 Mar 12 - 09:09 PM

Tobermory according to Michael Jackson's guide." Palate: dry, peaty, fruity, but not intense. Island character there, but relatively restrained."

a medium malt

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: EBarnacle
Date: 07 Mar 12 - 12:02 AM

Gosling's ginger beer is available in some places in the US. They introduced their house brand in 2009. There are several sites devoted to the D & S.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 07 Mar 12 - 07:25 PM

Stay away from Bermuda ice cream, it's awful.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 07 Mar 12 - 09:27 PM

Is ginger beer a real beer? And does it have ginger flavor, or was it first brewed by a strawberry blond publican somewhere and get the name that way?

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: EBarnacle
Date: 07 Mar 12 - 10:47 PM

I'll have to check. Generally, I enjoy my Gosling's straight, a tiny sip at a time. In fact, the true test of a friend's character is how they a good drink. Really mature people savor the good stuff.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: GUEST,Patsy
Date: 08 Mar 12 - 07:38 AM

We have Crabbies ginger beer in the UK which tastes not unlike like the soft drink ginger beer. But if I was going to have a couple of drinks the ginger taste would be too much. Here it is advertised on tv in an Enid Blyton way (Famous Five), which I find very off-putting for a start.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: EBarnacle
Date: 08 Mar 12 - 11:30 AM

According to what I have found, ginger beer is a non-alcoholic infusion of fermented ginger, similar to birch beer or root beer.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Manitas_at_home
Date: 08 Mar 12 - 11:33 AM

In the UK we have several ginger beers which are brewed and alcoholic. I remember one called Ginger Tom, a bitter beer brewed with ginger rather than adding the ginger after, which was quite strong and very moreish.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: catspaw49
Date: 08 Mar 12 - 01:45 PM

When I can purchase fine Kentucky Bourbon or great Tennessee sippin' Whiskey or a kickass Jamaican Rum, why would I piss away my $$ on something as disgusting as Scotch......or Gin for that matter?   Gin stinks like a cheap French Toilette Water and I believe Scotch IS real Toilet water........completely disgusting.

I leave you all to it but many of you have shaken my confidence in your wisdom...........


Spaw

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 08 Mar 12 - 06:13 PM

Well, Spaw... when I was young, I used to say "Scotch tastes like hair tonic"...and I avoided it. (Someone had fed me Cutty Sark).

Then I went to the movies and saw "Mr. Roberts"... imagine my glee when they were trying to make scotch, and someone said..."Let's add a bit of hair tonic"? *grin* I laughed out loud in the theater.
In those days, I learned about GOOD Irish whisky, and spent several years inhaling Tullamore Dew.

Then, after moving to DC and Tullamore Dew was unavailable for a few years, someone offered me a shot of MacAllan. Ahh! You need to spend $$$ to get decent scotch! I tried Laphroig...but... couldn't take the heavy smoke.

Education is slow....

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Greg B
Date: 08 Mar 12 - 07:17 PM

Back when I used to fly to Mystic from California for a week and live in the Seaport helping with Sea Music Festival preparations (eat your heart out), I frequented the Seaman's Inne. This was before the Seaport bought it. In any case, one evening I noted a bottle of Laphroig on the top shelf and decided to treat myself. Imagine my delight when the very new and inexperienced bar-maid not only filled the extra space in the glass when I demurred on the soda, rocks, and water, but charged me for a Seagram's, Cutty Sark, or some other such drek. Made rather a dent in that bottle of Laphroig before the week was out.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Big Al Whittle
Date: 08 Mar 12 - 08:00 PM

I'm sorry some of you don't get Scotch whisky, amd think its like hair oil.

Never tasted hair oil so I can't comment. The thing is that Scottish people - well its their thing. Its their culture. Even teetotaler Scots are really proud of Scotland's pre-eminence in this field of endeavour. Like Mecca does Islam, Russians do vodka, and irish folk do writers and Scotland....it does whisky. Its very famous for it, and the consensus is - no one does it better.

You gotta respect stuff like that - national identity - Dutch people and clogs and all that.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 08 Mar 12 - 08:08 PM

I have only been to Mystic twice...and eaten in the INN once....How long since you did this?

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Dave Hanson
Date: 09 Mar 12 - 09:15 AM

Ah Laphroaig, one of my favourites, it was the only Scotch whisky allowed into the USA during the prohibition, but you could only get it with a doctors prescription.

Dave H

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 27 Mar 12 - 12:49 AM

After tucking the Johnny Walker Red into the back of the cupboard and trying Famous Grouse over the past few weeks, I tried a small glass of the Johnny Walker this evening. It still tastes way too smoky by contrast. Not appealing. The rest will stay in the cupboard until someone who likes it can take the bottle home with them.

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: GUEST,Russ
Date: 27 Mar 12 - 07:58 AM

Single malts.

They're all different and they're all good.

Russ (Permanent GUEST)

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 28 Mar 12 - 01:00 AM

The Walgreen pharmacy chain is very large in the US now, but it was mentioned prominently in the Ken Burns documentary Prohibition because it was one of those drug stores that filled doctor's prescriptions for alcohol. They grew a lot in those years.

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Tattie Bogle
Date: 28 Mar 12 - 02:07 PM

They were handing out free samples of Bruichladdich 2001 at Celtic Connections in Glasgow this year, as well as it being the special "Festival malt" at the bars at the Concert Hall during CC. First "new" whisky to come from this distillery after a buy-out which saved it from closure. Very much to my taste as it's not too smoky/peaty, but if it's smoke/peat you like try their Port Charlotte.
Should I also mention the free samples of Auchentoshan at Edinburgh Airport at 11 am? Helps you deal with a "no frills" (or even no thrills) flight!

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 28 Mar 12 - 08:20 PM

Whenever I hear some poor clod say "I hate Scotch" I ask, have you tried all 200 kinds?
Spaw, try Aberlour, then get back to me.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Tattie Bogle
Date: 28 Mar 12 - 08:31 PM

Only 200? Shairly mair than that!

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: EBarnacle
Date: 28 Mar 12 - 11:24 PM

Mayhap that's 200 available in commercial quantities.

The best of almost anything is worth savoring.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: GUEST,Allan Conn
Date: 29 Mar 12 - 02:28 AM

There are over 100 distilleries currently in operation and some relatively recently fell silent. Some will make several products and of course there are all the various blends to consider too.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Dave Hanson
Date: 29 Mar 12 - 04:17 AM

The Wright Whisky Company in Skipton, North Yorkshire sell 700 different whiskies, some USA some Irish and some Japanese but mostly Scottish.

Dave H

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 29 Mar 12 - 07:45 PM

I remember when I didn't like Scotch. Being a county boy I had no clue about that or much of anything else. Then, Morticia gave me some Glen Morange and I found out that there is a difference depending on where it s distilled.Been drinking Glen Livet and Glen Fiddich up until Gordon brought a bottle of Aberlou, and that did it.
Old Maine saying, "When you are already there, there is no point in traveling."

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Tattie Bogle
Date: 29 Mar 12 - 08:11 PM

I was sort of hinting at what Allan Conn has just said: on holiday in Islay, the bar "menu" must have had about 100 whiskies on offer, with about 8 -10 varieties from each distillery on the island - differing in age, type of cask in which they were matured, etc. So e.g. Caol Ila is not just Caol Ila but a whole range.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Allan C.
Date: 30 Mar 12 - 06:19 AM

I echo Kendall's former dislike for scotch, however, for me it is still in the present tense. I often think of former 'Catter, David C., who said, "If scotch were the only drink on earth, I wouldn't be an alcoholic!"

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: GUEST,kendall
Date: 30 Mar 12 - 07:21 PM

I had a sister who said she didn't like cheese. Never mind that there are dozens of kinds of cheese. There is only one that I like, Vermont sharp Cheddar.
Yes, I know that Cheddar originated in England,,,so did "American" cheese.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Joe_F
Date: 30 Mar 12 - 08:23 PM

I always buy the kind that calls itself "seriously sharp". I would not want to put *frivolously* sharp cheddar on my chili.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Dave Hanson
Date: 31 Mar 12 - 04:07 AM

It's not call ' uisge beatha ' [ the water of life ] for nothing you know.

Dave H

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 31 Mar 12 - 02:28 PM

Kendall, if you buy a can of this heavenly sharp cheese you'll never find another one as good. My brother sent this a couple of years ago as a gift to my sister and I and we are instant converts. This is aged one year - now they have one aged 3 years. Mmmmmm!

I'll look for a single malt next time I'm in a liquor store with enough variety to spend time reading labels to choose.

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 31 Mar 12 - 07:27 PM

SRS, never mind shopping. Take my advice and just pick up a bottle of Aberlour. :-)

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Elmore
Date: 01 Apr 12 - 07:32 PM

If you drink blended scotch, try Passport. Trust me.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 01 Apr 12 - 07:44 PM

I haven't seen it at the stores I've been in, Kendall.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 01 Apr 12 - 08:25 PM

If you can't find Aberlour, try Glen Livet or Glen Fiddich.
I just don't care for blended whiskeys. They may be ok with diet Pepsi! :-)

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 01 Apr 12 - 09:47 PM

I'll have to head to a liquor store on the posh side of town where I'll probably find several of the better brands discussed.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 15 Apr 12 - 12:34 AM

Kendall, I found a bottle of your Aberlour today when I stopped at the area "warehouse" liquor store. I like it a lot better than the smoky Scotch varieties out there, but I fear my palate isn't sensitive enough to the nuances (so far) to make buying a bottle this expensive something I'd do very often. I suspect I'm more in the Famous Grouse range, at least for now. This will be for special occasions. :-)

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: GUEST,BigDaddy
Date: 15 Apr 12 - 03:30 AM

The fact that "Famous Grouse" is the best-selling Scotch in Scotland is apparently equivalent to the fact that the best-selling beer in the USA is Bud Light. I have waited twelve years for my bottle of Famous Grouse to either taste better, or for my taste buds to change. No more. It's going down the drain tonight and will be replaced by something I can actually stand to drink. Slainte!

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Big Al Whittle
Date: 15 Apr 12 - 05:32 PM

'I just don't care for blended whiskeys'

You know what they say about women, Kendall. There's no one quite like your old lady - but you really have to make sure.....'

And its the same with blended whisky, or even blended whiskey. You gotta make sure you're not missing anything.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 15 Apr 12 - 06:12 PM

Ah! When it comes to beer I've had more experience, and I don't drink Bud or Coors or a lot of the most popular ones. There are several of the German beers that I buy, and if I had to choose just one it would be from Mexico, Negra Modelo. I'm sure familiarity with the subject makes a difference. Beer is a lot more affordable for sampling than Scotch is. :)

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 15 Apr 12 - 06:38 PM

Being from Texas, Stilly, you can easily get various types of Shiner... which is remarkably palatable for a 'normal' beer.. (especially the Bock)

Negra Modelo is what I'd choose from the Mexican ones also...

The first beer that made me say "Oh...beer can really be GOOD" was a German Double Bock ..Paulaner Salvator

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 15 Apr 12 - 07:10 PM

Beer? if you can't get Guinness, try Stella Artois.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 15 Apr 12 - 08:05 PM

Bill D, I like that Paulaner also. Some of the "Oktoberfest" ones are good also.

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 16 Apr 12 - 11:00 AM

US brewer Samuel Adams makes an excellent Octoberfest beer.

And 3 weekends ago, I had a taste 'special' Glen Morangie "Nectar-D'or" that someone brought to a singing weekend. She had bought it in Scotland.

Matured first in regular Bouurbon casks, then finished in Sauterne casks.

It was one of the top 2-3 Scotches I ever tasted....yum!

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Big Al Whittle
Date: 16 Apr 12 - 09:11 PM

tonight some people came round for a drink and to watch a film on TV. They all wanted beer at room temperature out of the cupboard - rather out of the fridge.

I think maybe English people like their beer differently in this respect.

One asked for still cider - which i didn't have. Can anyone suggest a good non sparkling cider?

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Long Firm Freddie
Date: 17 Apr 12 - 09:18 AM

Hi Al

There's a one man cider review page here - the link is to a search on flat cider.

The first one mentioned is Henney's Vintage Cider from Herefordshire - just 6.5% and generally available from Sainsbury' at £2.09 a 500ml bottle - Tesco's are doing 3 bottles for £5.50.

Perhaps we need a separate cider thread!

Cheers

LFF

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 17 Apr 12 - 04:59 PM

It doesn't hurt to compare notes on other drinks, we've done a pretty good job of drifting back to Scotch. Now if we got started on wine, a separate thread would be a good idea. There's probably already one extant but I found only song lyrics about wine.

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 17 Apr 12 - 07:28 PM

Oh my...I don't dare begin to 'study' wine! I like decent wine, but beer & Scotch are quite enough!

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: GUEST,Kendall
Date: 17 Apr 12 - 07:33 PM

My dear old friend, Gordon came by yesterday, and he left a bottle of Aberlour. Great Scotch, great friend.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Big Al Whittle
Date: 17 Apr 12 - 07:56 PM

Theres a cider museum just up the road from me in Overmoigne. The man there was very informative. I bought three samples - 3 litre portions at £3 a piece.

Mill house farm cider - one litre of sweet, one of dry. jack Ratt's Scrumpy cider -Red label sweet.

I'm going to invite my friend back, do a ploughman's lunch, and have a cider tasting evening.

Drinking a large Bells as I write - £15 a litre in Tesco. Quite pleasant. Peperry - finds the front of the tongue in the sfter taste.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: GUEST,Patsy
Date: 18 Apr 12 - 08:05 AM

I find threads like this very informative, although I think I know what I am looking for it is good to refer to the different brands and recommendations before heading off to buy. At least I can appear to look as though I know what I am talking about - even if I don't.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Will Fly
Date: 18 Apr 12 - 08:40 AM

The English Cider Centre is about 30 minutes drive from at Middle Farm, Firle, in East Sussex. A large barn - filled with bottled and cask ciders from all over England - little plastic cups for free tasting...

I love cider but can't really drink it as it upsets my stomach very quickly - alas. I sometimes have a glass of Norman or Breton cider (with a crepe or a galette) in France, and it's nice as part of a Kir, but that's about it.

Now, when it comes to malts (and wine), it's a different story...

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Jim McLean
Date: 18 Apr 12 - 02:43 PM

Remeber the old Gaeic saying, translated as 'chose your company before choosing your drink'.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Big Al Whittle
Date: 18 Apr 12 - 07:24 PM

Remeber the old Gaeic saying, translated as 'chose your company before choosing your drink'.

Im not sure I ever knew it in the first place. What does it mean? lob a stink bomb in the pub to clear out any undesirables....?

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 11 May 12 - 10:26 PM

There is a street in Charleston SC called ABERLOUR way. I wonder about the connection to Scotland and that brand of Scotch.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Rusty Dobro
Date: 12 May 12 - 07:03 PM

I won a bottle of Bells in a raffle tonight! Good? Bad? Don't care!

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: KHNic
Date: 13 May 12 - 03:03 PM

This is a useful site. Personally, I'd go for the Tyrconnell.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 14 May 12 - 08:46 AM

So many brands of scotch, so little time..

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 14 May 12 - 12:09 PM

♥ to those last two posts.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 14 May 12 - 12:12 PM

So many brands of Scotch... so little money.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 14 May 12 - 01:23 PM

Aberfeldy is mentioned in the Loch Tay boat song.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Jim Dixon
Date: 14 May 12 - 04:26 PM

My favorite distilled beverage these days is Irish whiskey, especially Tullamore Dew.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 14 May 12 - 05:32 PM

Ahh.. Tullamore Dew is great stuff.... especially if you can get it in the little green crock.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: GUEST,kendall
Date: 14 May 12 - 07:36 PM

I had a drink of that last Saturday evening. Not sure I liked it, so, I had three more.
Back to the Aberlour.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: BrendanB
Date: 15 May 12 - 07:34 AM

Has anyone ever tried Johnny Walker Blue Label? I have only ever seen it for sale in duty free shops on cross channel ferries and the last time it was for sale for £105 a bottle (that's the duty free price!) It is a blended scotch but I would expect ambrosia to be blended with it at that price. Scottish ambrosia obviously.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 09 Jan 13 - 09:32 PM

My Secret Santa this year, Greg Stevens, sent a single-serving bottle of Ardbeg. Wow! Now that is smoky, but it is different than the Johnny Walker Red smoke flavor that I commented on above (I think I did, anyway, I didn't read back over the thread). The smell of it is smoke, the taste is catching up smoke. I searched on the name here at Mudcat and found John MacKenzie made remarks on a couple of threads - apparently you have some grocery stores that sell it under their own label. As I poured it I saw how light it was in color - and I noticed on one remark he talked about both how pale and how strong it is. Most scotch I find here is 40%, this is 46%. This is very strong smoke-wise, if I found a bottle it would have to be for very special occasions. :-)

A while back I found a single malt in my price range called Glen Parker. I had a friend visiting who told me he likes scotch so I figured he'd enjoy it, but he ended up drinking the Famous Grouse blended scotch I'd bought for just-in-case.

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Beer
Date: 09 Jan 13 - 11:36 PM

Tried the Black Label but can't afford the Blue to try. Good ?
Adrien

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bert
Date: 09 Jan 13 - 11:58 PM

If you want smooth, dump the Scotch and get some Jim Beam.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Charmion
Date: 10 Jan 13 - 08:05 AM

I have tried Johnnie Walker Blue Label exactly once, and that not recently, so I can't offer tasting notes. I remember it as okay -- nice and drinkable; however, at that price it bloody wants to be.

In my opinion, Scotland and Ireland are full of distillers who make just as good a drop, or better, at half the bite. And that's not even mentioning the up-and-coming competition in such far-flung jurisdictions as Wales, Japan and Cape Breton Island!

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 10 Jan 13 - 08:11 AM

One of my Sons in law gave me a drink of JURA. Not bad, but, not Aberlour either.

Jacqui's son in law gave me a bottle of McLellands from Waitros. Not bad at all. 9 pounds.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Charmion
Date: 10 Jan 13 - 10:59 AM

Jura is nice, but a little peaty for my taste -- which is, I admit, a bit on the sissy side. My absolute fave whiskeys are Irish.

The last time we crossed the border, we bought a jeezly big jug of The MacAllan, a delicious potion that goes down very well in January. Aberlour is also very, very tasty, especially in winter.

I like whisk(e)y all the time, but Scotch seems more of a winter drink to me.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 10 Jan 13 - 01:09 PM

Isn't it 'interesting' how our tastes differ? Some folks seem to prefer mildish, non-offensive flavors in beer, whiskey...etc. Thus, bland lager beers are so common. Others like something 'distinctive', but disagree on what distinctive flavors. Thus, my avoidance of Laphroig and Ardbeg and Lagavulin, while others seek them out... the more peat the better.

Since I had a good craft season, I treated myself to a bottle of Glen Morangie Nectar D'or that I had previously had only a taste of. I even experimented by mixing (yes, I know...sacrilege) it with about 25% from the final ½ inch of my Springbank. Opinion? If they bottled that blend, I would buy it! The Glenmorangie is delicious and the Springbank adds just a touch of tang that *I* find great.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Tattie Bogle
Date: 10 Jan 13 - 08:11 PM

SRS mentions colour of whisky: no correlation with strength, or another popular myth is that it's the peat that gives whisky its colour. No, the distilled spirit is colourless: it's the cask it's matured in that gives it the colour, so those from sherry casks tend on the whole to be darker and deeper gold.
That's not to say that peat does not colour the water in domestic supplies in rural areas after heavy rainfall!
I'm not a great "smoky" fan, but I wouldn't say that the whiskies that I do like are in any way bland!

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Steve Shaw
Date: 10 Jan 13 - 08:54 PM

Sainsbury's sell, under their own label, an Irish single malt called Eire for an almost-affordable twenty quid(ish). It's a very respectable, enjoyable tipple, and I say that as a man of Talisker and Laphroaig (though it isn't like them).

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Beer
Date: 10 Jan 13 - 10:51 PM

Never liked the Oak flavored scotch. Will not buy it but won't refuse it if offered.
ad.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Steve Shaw
Date: 11 Jan 13 - 12:24 PM

Tattie Bogle, I hate to tell you this, but the colour of malt whiskies is "harmonised" (in other words, standardised) using caramel, E150a. Producers can't rely on wooden casks to provide the consistency of colour that they imagine we consumers demand.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Tattie Bogle
Date: 11 Jan 13 - 02:28 PM

I did know that too, but the cask certainly contributes.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Dave Hanson
Date: 11 Jan 13 - 02:51 PM

Not strictly true about the caramel, have a look at Ardbeg 10 year old, so pale it's almost colourless, but it tastes great.

If there was caramel added, by law it would have to say so on the label.

Dave H

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Gallus Moll
Date: 11 Jan 13 - 04:26 PM

Check out 2012 movie 'The Angel's Share' for entertainment and information about whisky!

The best - the only - way to learn about malts is to try them, and keep tasting notes (well, attempt to - - usually manage it for the first couple of drams -- -)
There are so many ages and variations of malts (eg Caol Ila as Tattie Bogle pointed out) - and so many distillieries / malts in existence - that you will only manage to sample a small proportion of them in your life - and even once you decide on one or some favourite(s) they may taste different on separate occasions, according to the company / weather / your mood and many other factors!

I would never put ice in whisky (or brandy.

I 'nose' it first, for quite a while.
I taste it neat. I might well then drink it neat.
Or - I might sip (ice free) water in between. (Scottish tap water is usually fine, but if you are into spring water - surely that should be Scottish?)
With certain malts I might decide to then add a splash of water - but with some that can spoil it so be careful!

There are various whisky festivals and tastings that you can attend, and either free or for a small fee get to try a range of malts with advice from experts - - better still, go to an educational tasting where you have the opportunity to try (for example) 'Ancient and Rare Malts' - - wonderful!

Personal favourites? Haven't found them all yet! -- After 40+ years of study I have a fair sized list of ones I really like (and medicinal smelling ones I don't even want to 'nose')
Slainthe!

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 11 Jan 13 - 07:36 PM

If I bought it,and I feel like adding a bit of water, brake fluid, or weasel piss,I will do so.
Judge not....etc.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Charmion
Date: 11 Jan 13 - 08:49 PM

Kendall, what band if weasel piss do you favour?

Just askin' ... ;-)

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Charmion
Date: 11 Jan 13 - 08:51 PM

That would be "brand of weasel piss".

This iPad makes me fingers stutter.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Steve Shaw
Date: 12 Jan 13 - 07:06 AM

Not true, Dave. Well, it's true for whisky sold in Germany or Denmark, but not in the UK. Caramel addition is a very widespread practice. It's certainly done for Talisker, and I've just examined a bottle thereof and there is no mention of caramel on the label. Trouble is, I could hardly put the damn thing down again, and it's only midday...

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: GUEST,Big Al Whittle
Date: 12 Jan 13 - 07:46 AM

I'm better off without alcohol - though I have loved drinking it for forty odd years. I can no more have a wee dram and leave it at that, than I can run a four minute mile.

Wonder if there are any other whisky and whiskey lovers in the same predicament.

Bit of a bastard, isn't it?

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: GUEST,Allan Conn
Date: 12 Jan 13 - 01:05 PM

"Caramel addition is a very widespread practice." Apparently a majority of single malts have the addition and virtually all the blends do.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 12 Jan 13 - 01:17 PM

Big Al... I count myself fortunate that I do NOT 'need' a 2nd, 3rd and 4th...etc... drams. It is not an accomplishment, just luck of the draw. My brother got the other end of the straw, and 24 years ago, after serious problems, had to give up ALL alcohol.

2-3 beers or 1-2 shots, sipped slowly, is my limit.... fortunately, as my tastes run to the GOOD stuff.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 12 Jan 13 - 04:26 PM

I come from a long line of alcoholics, but thank providence I can take it or leave it.Most of the time I don'5t even want one drink.

But, I don't dare smoke one cigarette, even after 16 years.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Steve Shaw
Date: 12 Jan 13 - 04:56 PM

I gave up smoking suddenly at 8.05pm on February 21 1978. There were still 17 left in the packet. I still have bad dreams about me failing and smoking again.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: GUEST,Russ
Date: 12 Jan 13 - 09:34 PM

Been drinking single malt for quite a while.

IMHO it is all different and all good.

I try to keep a bit of a selection so that my scotch can fit my mood.

Do I want a a big fat entree scotch, a dessert scotch, an appetizer scotch?

I have noticed that the taste of scotch depends a lot on mouth and body chemistry. Probably even my state of mind.

Russ (Permanent GUEST)

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 13 Jan 13 - 01:25 PM

Bourbon drinkers tip more.

A recently released study is getting the attention of bartenders and wait staff, pointing to wine and beer drinkers typically leaving smaller tips than those drinking bourbon or other spirits.

The study, conducted by Restaurant Sciences, looked at 4 million restaurant, nightclub and hotel guest checks to determine the average total bill amount per check, as well as the average tip left for wait staff. The study showed that patrons who drank bourbon left an average of a 22.69 percent tip, while those that ordered a blended whiskey were a close second, coming in at 22.67 percent. Rum drinkers were the lowest tippers, coming in at 19.66 percent.

Others on the tip list were:
Cider - 22.20 percent
Gin - 21.67 percent
Vodka - 21.27 percent
Scotch - 20.12 percent

Although scotch drinkers gave one of the lowest percentages in tips, their check total were higher, with an average of $69.14. Despite the lower tip percentage, wait staff of scotch drinkers typically earned an average of a $13.91 tip, while those serving bourbon drinkers averaged $9.60.

According to The Spirits Business, spirit drinkers, those that drank bourbon, whiskey, scotch, etc., ran up a bill of $55.19 on average, whereas wine-only drinkers spent the most, coming in at $69.05. Beer drinkers were the most thrifty, spending $38.74 on average.

Chuck Ellis, president of Restaurant Sciences, told Boston.com:

"Whether consumers ordered beers, wine, or spirits, they generally tipped an above average amount of more than 20 percent per check."

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 13 Jan 13 - 02:27 PM

Only about 5-6 times in my life have I ordered ANY hard liquor in a bar or restaurant. I suspect my Scots ancestry simply cannot comprehend why they need to ask $3-$12 for a shot when there are ... what..40? shots in a bottle. Because enough people will pay it, I suppose.

(a couple of years ago, I was at a gathering for a friend and shots of decent Scotch were going for $3-4. They also had Connemara single malt Irish, a bottle of which I had been given as a present once.... so I thought I'd splurge.... after it was poured, they asked $8! I asked why...."Well, it's a 'special'... not common or easy to get, and more expensive." I went to a liquor store... yeah, it was maybe 10% higher than a vaguely similar bottle of Scotch... not 120%.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: GUEST
Date: 14 Jan 13 - 02:20 PM

My personal favourite is Glen Moray (Made just about 6 miles away) and Aberlour (Made about 12 miles away) Here is something about Caramel in wiskey.

http://www.masterofmalt.com/blog/post/Can-you-taste-Caramel-(E150a)-in-Whisky.aspx

If you are interested.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: GUEST,Eric the viking
Date: 14 Jan 13 - 02:21 PM

That last post was me....sorry was busy being interupted by Mrs Viking.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 18 Apr 13 - 12:08 AM

About 18 months ago I started sipping my way through various types of Scotch. After this thread started I switched over to single malt, weaned myself from any ice. I have discovered over time that I prefer a stronger or richer variety. And have come to terms with the smoky flavor, now sampling my way into the highlands and the islays.

A chain called Total Wine and Spirits (in the U.S. - it recently moved into Fort Worth) has a large selection, including a store label of "Shieldaig" bottled for them. I've tried a couple - my favorite of the whisky's so far is their finest old highland variety with a good smoky flavor. Here's a description of the label from the store web site:

Shieldaig Whisky is produced by Ian Macleod Distillers, Ltd., one of the largest and most widely respected independent family companies within the spirit industry. The Shieldaig line of Scotch whiskies are carefully selected grain and single malts that the Shieldaig master blender has hand chosen in order to create the finest quality whiskies available in the market today. Each handcrafted bottling over delivers, offering exceptional and distinctive flavors usually only available in deluxe whiskies offered at twice the price.

The bottle itself says it was bottled by William Maxwell & Co, Ltd. Having enjoyed this highland variety I thought I'd see how far I could push the smoke flavor. I've realized that if I'm going to drink Scotch I want it to give me more clues as to why it is special and a stand-alone drink - some of the milder ones like Aberlour and Bunnahabhain are delicate and don't stay on the palate as long as I like.

This evening I hit what seems like an impenetrable wall - I brought home a bottle of Laphroaig. I poured a jigger and I can't finish it. When I've discussed smoke vs peat with people familiar with Scotch I've heard it described as "peat is more like earth or coal, smoke is more like a barbecue." Laphroaig seems to have a lot of peat. I'll wait and give it another try before I pronounce it undrinkable, but I plan to back off down the chart (see the whisky map) and over a bit to the right. I almost picked up a bottle of Bowmore this evening, and I looked at the Highland Park in passing.

The research continues, slow and steady.

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 18 Apr 13 - 12:37 AM

I may have reversed the characteristics between the Sheildaig Highland and the Laphroaig. It may be the peat in the Sheildaig that tastes better than the smoke in the Laphroaig. According to this review (by an admitted novice.)

I realize there are several varieties of the various brands that people have talked about here. For example, the Aberlour that Kendall likes may not be the type that I bought. Could you give the full name on the labels of your favorites? For reference?

Thanks!

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Tattie Bogle
Date: 18 Apr 13 - 04:41 AM

Been to another tasting since my last post. Just proving the point about different whiskies from the same distillery we had 3 Bunnahabhainns ( Islay). The first was the one with the song "Westering Home" on the sleeve, and is no longer in production: our host had to hunt about a bit to find a bottle - we had one in the cupboard at home, unbeknown to him! The second was the currently produced commoner variant. Most samplers preferred the older one: the difference was only subtle however. The third one was very different, heavily peated, very phenolic-smelling, and only liked by a few who like their malts as peaty as that.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 18 Apr 13 - 11:04 AM

Thanks, Tattie!

That's the thing - the company brand name isn't enough, the variety is an important piece of the puzzle. The Aberlour that I tasted is probably not the same one that Kendall adores! :)

I've tasted Ardbeg and thought it very smoky, but it wasn't packed full of the earthy (mouth full of charcoal) flavor in the 10 year Laphroaig. They fall near each other on the flavor map, but they are worlds apart in the spectrum of flavors each contains.

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Q (Frank Staplin)
Date: 18 Apr 13 - 12:35 PM

My favorite remains Highland Park 15 year. I was given a bottle of the 18 year that I have been saving, but I can't afford that level or higher.
To me, it is the smoothest of the single malts. I haven't tasted enough makes to be knowledgeable about differences. They have tastings here, but I haven't attended them.


Laphroaig I will drink but it is not one I would buy for myself. Macallan I like, but it is not my preference.

Watch the little videos at the Highland Park website. Some interesting material.

www.highlandpark.co.uk

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Dave Hanson
Date: 18 Apr 13 - 02:58 PM

Highland Park 18 year old is consistantly voted one of the finest whiskies ever, I've had one bottle, can't afford another.

I've searched all my whisky books and can't find Sheildaig.

Dave H

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Q (Frank Staplin)
Date: 18 Apr 13 - 03:47 PM

Since Sheildaig is a store label (SRS), it won't be in the books.

SRS, the label may give the name of the distillery or location, which coupled with the age, may provide the information Dave H is requesting..

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 18 Apr 13 - 04:07 PM

srs, I read from the label of the Aberlour.
ABERLOUR

estd 1879

Aberlour distillery                Highland
Scotland                            Speyside
                                    aged malt

                   highland single malt
                   Scotch whisky

This aberlour single malt has been matured in two hand made oak cask types.
Traditional oak and the finest of Sherry oak casks

                        12 YEARS OLD

                      Double cask matured

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 18 Apr 13 - 04:10 PM

There is a "commercial" on the back bragging it up, do you want that?

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 18 Apr 13 - 04:14 PM

Actually, I haven't met a single malt scotch that I did not like. I just prefer the speyside to the Islay stuff.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Tattie Bogle
Date: 18 Apr 13 - 07:36 PM

On a wee aside from this, looking forward to seeing Robin Laing again at our local folk club on 30th April: he has written many good songs about whisky, earning himself the title of "The Whisky Bard".
Here he is singing about another of my favourite Islay whiskies - in the distillery to boot!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z20-vre3Vq0

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: michaelr
Date: 18 Apr 13 - 07:45 PM

Stilly: When I first discovered Islay malts, I really, really liked Laphroaig. Now it seems a bit over the top with the peat smoke. I guess the palate matures over time - I'm also not as in love with Texas barbecue as I used to be.

Here in the county I live in (Sonoma, Northern California) a Single Malt Society has started up a couple of years ago. I'm a member, and have attended several tastings. One of them featured Bruichladdich, also from Islay, and their products are a bit more subtle.

Apparently there are several companies that buy casks of whisky from distilleries whose product normally goes to the big blenders (e.g. Johnny Walker) and bottle these usually unavailable whiskies, many at cask strength. Gordon & MacPhail, based in Elgin, is one such company. Just looking at their "Connoisseurs Choice" selections will make your mouth water.

Another such company was represented (by a charming Scotsman in kilt) at the most recent tasting, and it was an eye-opener. This is Duncan Taylor, based in Speyside. I tasted a couple of really delicious single malts, which I bought straightaway. One is a 14-year-old Speyside whisky from Dailuane at 46%, from their "Dimensions" line. It's not chill-filtered, and was aged in oak casks. It has a little bit of smoke and a very nice fruitiness with vanilla accents. I've actually seen this one on the shelf at my local Bottle Barn.

The other, also 14 years old at bottling, is a Glenlossie from their "Octave" line, which features whiskies that have been "invigorated by 6 months maturation in reconstructed ex-sherrywood octave casks". In other words, they buy the very large sherry casks and make small barrels out of them, which they then use to further mature the whisky. This one comes in at 54.8% alcohol and has no discernible smoke flavor, but oh the complexity! It's awesome.

Lamentably, as with wine and food, the increasing sophistication of one's palate is accompanied by increasing cost. These two bottles together cost me around $200. I'm not wealthy by any stretch, but I do consider that a worthwhile expense.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 18 Apr 13 - 09:25 PM

MichaelR, that sounds like a great opportunity. It's a slow process to research, sample, give it time to see if you acquire an appreciation for some of these (or know instantly it isn't one for you.) Sharing the costs and having the guidance of others in the group gives more range but I bet you realize there are so many to try and so little time!

DaveH, look at my longer post from yesterday where I linked and named the various affiliations with this store brand. There are a couple of rabbit warrens to follow, i.e., Ian Macleod and William Maxwell.

Those Sheildaig varieties are a good price, but I'd like to establish is what are comparable name brands. I can drink the store brand happily and pay less, but if I wanted to buy a brand name bottle with similar qualities, what would that be?

Kendall, thanks. I do like the Speyside in general, and there are some delicious affordable ones. I found Aberlour and Bunnahabhain to be very similar, but they start at $50 a bottle.

I read a label for Bowmore 12 this evening - it mentions peat and smoke several times - so I held off. I picked up a bottle of Highland Park 12. Much better.

Though I normally wouldn't consider returning a bottle of something that is opened, the folks at Total Wine make the offer, that you can return something if you really don't like it. They want you to give it a chance first, so opened but barely tasted is viewed less favorably than a bottle with a couple of drinks at least out so they know you tried it. I hope they are able to use an open bottle of Laphroaig 10 for free samples - I'd hate to think they have to waste it.

Those of you who have been drinking the smoky ones for a while - I see peat, peat smoke, and smoke all mentioned on descriptions. Is there another kind of smoke than peat smoke? Wood smoke from barrels, perhaps? There are some that can have a smoke taste without the earthy taste - is that earthy bit the peat part?

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: michaelr
Date: 18 Apr 13 - 10:10 PM

Many people think all Scotch whiskies are smoky, but that is not the case. The smoke flavor comes from using malted barley that was traditionally dried over a peat fire. Peat was, at one time, the only practical fuel source for many distilleries. These days it's an optional flavor enhancement. I haven't been able to find any information about what other sources of smoke may be in use.

Here is a lengthy explanation of smokiness.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 19 Apr 13 - 12:10 AM

michaelr, that gives me a hint of what is going on. I went looking for more from the source of that answer. I Googled Dr P. Brossard Scotch whisky (credited at the bottom of that answer you linked to) to come up with a PDF with more information. I take this bit from his essay:

Peat is still largely used in Scotch distilleries, but mainly in the distilleries located in the islands of Skye, Orkney, Mull and Islay. Depending on the structure and the origin of the peat, the duration and temperature of the peat fire, and the distillation, the peaty character might be quite different between the products of two distilleries.

Here is that flavor map, with more information and here is a page about single malt Scotch. Scroll down and see what you can make of that "whisky wheel."

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: michaelr
Date: 19 Apr 13 - 01:28 AM

They handed out that flavor "map" at one of the tastings. I guess if you've already experienced some of the extremes it can be useful, but as far as distilleries go, it's by no means comprehensive.

As for the wheel, they have similar things around here for the wine. I can't pretend to be able to taste even a third of the flavors listed, so it's pretty much academic to me.

As someone said, "I don't know much about (something), but I know what I like."

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 19 Apr 13 - 06:42 AM

SRS, I don't know where you saw Aberlour at that price but I would never pay that much. Seems to me I bought it for under $30.00 at a store in New Hampshire.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Dave the Gnome
Date: 19 Apr 13 - 08:59 AM

Aberlour is regularly 1/2 price at Morrisons. Seeing as I work for them and get 10% discount I have paid about £12.50 a bottle. Trouble is I enjoy it so much, it doesn't last long enough between offers and having paid £12.50 I can't justify paying up to £26!

Sigh.

DtG

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Dave Hanson
Date: 19 Apr 13 - 09:24 AM

Aberlour 10 year old is £20.00 a bottle in my local Morrisons.

Dave H

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 19 Apr 13 - 11:55 AM

Perhaps the best way to experiment is to start with a brand you know you liked, and try others from the same region... noting that **price** is often a good guide to the stature of a brand or age OF a brand within each region.

There are book and online guides to steer you in 'general' directions. If there is a local tasting club...or gathering (Scottish games are an annual event in many locales, and it is common to find samples of folks favorites at clan tables).

I learned VERY early that I did not like the heavy peated stuff like Laphroaig.... and I did like many of the Speyside brands.

I went on, like others, to discover Highland Park, and decided long ago that it would be my choice to be marooned on a desert island with. (as old as possible... but I can't afford the really expensive stuff.)

Now... the thing is, Highland Park is wonderful, but it is like delicious but plain roast beef... it doesn't stand out as an 'unusual' flavor. (as Laphroaig does) If I want my taste buds waked up , I'll go for either Talisker or Springbank. Talisker is... ummmm... an experience. *BOOM*...wow. Springbank has a little tang of peat, and something like a 'salty' flavor. It is one of the few remaining Campbelltown whiskeys, and I love it, even though I don't want it for everyday.

Another one I savor is Cragganmore, which has a 'deeper' (hard for me to describe) that is nice as a nightcap.

And yes, Aberlour is a great whiskey.... and for a relatively inexpensive, but gentle drink, Auchentoshan. Just nice sipping.

The range of Glenmorangies, aged in various types of barrels is always good... you just have to decide what YOU prefer.

And for the daring who like it strong in alcohol, Aberlour's A'bunadu is amazing! YUM!

If only I could afford to try all those other brands... but unless I am offered a taste, I usually just stick with the dozen I know...

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 19 Apr 13 - 12:57 PM

Kendall, I suspect it is the variety that the stores choose to carry that costs that much. I'd have to check the range of Aberlour offerings. The store I've been doing a lot of this testing at has the lowest prices I've seen around the region, so I can't imagine they would spike up the price on that one whisky.

BillD, as usual, you give very good advice. I like your characterization of the Highland Park. I'll keep in mind your Talisker or Springbank remarks - the Sheildaig Highland I liked is characterized as having things you describe in Springbank.

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Dave Hanson
Date: 19 Apr 13 - 02:54 PM

That would be A'Bunadh, it means the original, I have 2 bottles at the moment, a 60.5%abv and a 59.7%abv, both glorious.

Dave H

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Tattie Bogle
Date: 19 Apr 13 - 07:05 PM

Yes, have to agree about A'Bunadh!Magic stuff, and not just because it's that strong! Another Robin Laing song, by the way! - he suggests it goes well with dark chocolate!

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 20 Apr 13 - 02:18 AM

I just found an Aberlour 12 year at Total Wine and spirits for $30 that is probably the one Kendall was talking about. I'll have to look at the shelf to see what else they have in that section.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 20 Apr 13 - 10:22 AM

That's the one. I have to say, Aberlour is only a bit better than Glen Morangie, Glen Livet or Glenfiddich.
I will gladly accept any of those.
Even Johnnie Walker black is ok with enough diet Pepsi! LOL (Inside joke)

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 20 Apr 13 - 11:07 AM

Akmost any Scotch goes well with dark chocolate(it's the only way I got thru a gift bottle of very mediocre scotch).... or vice-versa. You take a small nibble of chocolate, then a sip of liquid ambrosia... and let the chocolate dissolve on your tongue.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 20 Apr 13 - 04:30 PM

I should say that I found it on their online site, I haven't seen it in the store. It's one that might need to be requested.

That chocolate trick works with a lot of good drinks. I love chocolate with a strong brew of black tea, like English Breakfast.

I'll give that Laphroaig one more try, with a little water, as they suggest. Supposed to "open it up" a bit. If the water doesn't jump out and run away . . .

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 20 Apr 13 - 05:15 PM

Bill D care to name the scotch?

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 20 Apr 13 - 06:48 PM

The bad one? Glen Gyle-8 yrs old

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: GUEST,Lavengro
Date: 21 Apr 13 - 06:32 AM

I'm with biLL on this. Irish Whiskey to me is far smoother than its Scottish counterpart. The only scotch I have found that is to my taste is Glenturret. A lovely drop.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 21 Apr 13 - 06:39 AM

Duggans dew o' Kirkintilloch is a scotch, but it is vile!

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Max Johnson
Date: 21 Apr 13 - 07:09 AM

A Sikh friend gave me a bottle of Amrut for my birthday.
It's really good. Peaty, but not as much as an Islay. A little bit like Highland Park, but smoother. I'm lovin' it.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: michaelr
Date: 21 Apr 13 - 12:08 PM

Stilly: yes, always add water! Both the Scottish presenters at our tastings emphasized this.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 21 Apr 13 - 10:47 PM

I tried adding water - I couldn't drink it. I have to throw in the towel on that one. Water seemed to make it stronger.

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: michaelr
Date: 22 Apr 13 - 01:25 AM

Hmm, really? I can't (don't like to) drink whisky without water, especially cask strength. The dilution is what makes fire water palatable.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 22 Apr 13 - 06:53 AM

SRS, try diet Pepsi. running for cover

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 22 Apr 13 - 12:56 PM

I 'can' drink cask strength straight, but just a wee bit of water seems to 'open' the flavor and make it a fuller experience. I don't add enough water to really amount to dilution.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Q (Frank Staplin)
Date: 22 Apr 13 - 01:06 PM

I checked the online listings of a couple of stores here and found most of the types discussed here are available locally.
I may try a few that sounded good in the descriptions posted here.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Elmore
Date: 22 Apr 13 - 01:23 PM

Can't afford the good stuff. Have to drink the cheap stuff with a splash of Drambuie. Not bad.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 22 Apr 13 - 01:29 PM

I don't drink any diet drinks, and I stopped drinking soft drinks several years ago. Back in the day I used to like a rum and coke. I also drink gin and tonic, which is a bit carbonated.

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Q (Frank Staplin)
Date: 22 Apr 13 - 03:02 PM

Good juices are available, so none of the cola stuff, diet or otherwise. Enough sugar in my pastries and pies.

I like a Bombay gin over ice. A fine tequila over ice is acceptable as well.
I have a little water on the side with my single malt.

I used to make mint juleps in season, but haven't for a long time. A good sour mash bourbon is needed for them.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Jim McLean
Date: 22 Apr 13 - 03:35 PM

I had a birthday card from Laphroaig yesterday!

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 22 Apr 13 - 04:30 PM

DIET SODA + ALCOHOL = BAD IDEA is an article I just found in my facebook feed. From Dr. Weil.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 22 Apr 13 - 07:22 PM

SRS, I was joking. I would never ruin scotch with any kind of soft drink. John MacKenzie knows to what I refer.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Dave Hanson
Date: 23 Apr 13 - 03:34 AM

Jim, I now own several square feet of Islay courtesy of Laphroaig.

Dave H

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Jim McLean
Date: 23 Apr 13 - 03:42 AM

Davey H, I think I have one square inch!

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Dave Hanson
Date: 23 Apr 13 - 07:25 AM

Jim, with every bottle of Laphroaig you get [ if you claim it ] lease of 1 square foot of land by the Laphroaig water supply stream, for your lifetime.

Dave H

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 23 Apr 13 - 09:46 AM

I figured you were, Kendall, but that article came along and just begged to be posted.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 23 Apr 13 - 08:39 PM

I was over to return the bottle. Too bad they probably have to toss it, unless someone on the staff likes that type. Perhaps. I found the Aberlour you drink, Kendall, at about $30. I'll sample that one soon.

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 24 Apr 13 - 07:51 AM

You will never buy Johnnie Walker again! :-)

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Dave the Gnome
Date: 29 Apr 13 - 03:13 AM

Well spotted on the Morrisons front, Dave H. The offer ran out yesterday but I got 2 bottles of 10 year old Aberlour for £40 before it did and had a voucher that gave me £10 off any spend over £35 - So I effectively paid £15 a bottle :-)

Cheers (hic)

DtG

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Pete Jennings
Date: 29 Apr 13 - 07:24 AM

It was my birthday last week and the missus bought me two small bottles of Jura, one Superstition, the other Diurach's Own. The latter is sixteen years old and just sublime...especially with the previously mentioned splash of water to wake it up.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 29 Apr 13 - 11:41 AM

I have a bottle of Highland Park 12-year-old and one of the Shieldaig Highland Finest Old to compare. They overall have very similar characteristics. I would say that there are a couple of more detectable notes in the Highland Park, it has a kind of honey or vanilla finish and not quite as much smoke as in the Shieldaig. But at half the price of Highland Park, the Sheildaig Highland is a very good close second.

I think you can mail order from this place, though I am not sure if it is just wine or if they also send spirits. I suppose I could work out something if someone in the U.S. wants me to make a run and mail something you can't get. There are under 100 stores around the U.S. It might make a nice field trip! I like the variety of wine these folks carry, they have some of the varieties that my grocery store doesn't usually carry and the smaller liquor stores might have a single sample of.

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 29 Apr 13 - 09:14 PM

Never heard of Shieldaig Highland ... but ANY detectable smoke in Highland Park would surprise me.

(well, their web pages quotes one review: "...a drift of peat smoke.", so I guess there is VERY light addition.) fooled me!

I am not surprised to read : "..we have also received World's Best Single Malt** for Highland Park 21 year old."

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 29 Apr 13 - 10:42 PM

There is a hint, Bill, but only a hint. The Shieldaig is a store brand of the place where I put links. Further up the thread is a breakdown of the places they source the whisky the sell under that label. There are stores in Laurel and Towson. Is either of them near you?

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 30 Apr 13 - 02:40 PM

Hmmm..Laurel is about 20-25 min. away. Towson is where my son went to college and it is about an hour away.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 30 Apr 13 - 10:48 PM

I think you'll be amazed at the variety they carry.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: GUEST,wullie
Date: 01 May 13 - 06:17 AM

try and get to Islay whisky festival end of may each year every distillary has an open day its a long fesytivaleat at Ardbeg for fantastic food
wllie

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Wullie
Date: 01 May 13 - 06:26 AM

tHave to say there are other great places to eat not least the Islay hotel will be there in three weeks

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 10 May 13 - 09:46 PM

Wullie, we expect a report back! Enjoy your trip!

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 10 May 13 - 10:49 PM

Well, it seems Total Wine is 'possibly' easier to get to in Virginia for me. Depends on time of day. (the Laurel, Md store is at he far end of Laurel from where I usually visit)

I will program 3 different locations into my aged head, and try to check 'em out.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 10 May 13 - 10:51 PM

Oooh... that was 300! Do I win a bottle of scotch?

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 11 May 13 - 12:18 AM

:) All those little states lumped together - I should have put the locations onto a Google map for you.

Yes, and in addition to the Scotch, take time to look through their beers (sold by the bottle or the six-pack - you can sample easily), their wines, and see if they have any interesting little 1-jigger samples. There are some point-of-purchase racks with little bottles, but I think they're mostly designer samples. I was hoping they might have things like the little bottle of Ardbeg that my Secret Santa so thoughtfully included in my package last holiday season.

I am sure there are arguments against having large stores move into an area, cutting out the little guy, but I'm tired of having only one sample of a particular variety of a wine to sample at any given small local store. Whether a single vine or a blend, I like to be able to compare. An example - I've been interested in sampling output of the Tempranillo vines, but the store near me ever only had one brand. At the larger store I found straight batches of Tempranillo, and I also found blends. There is one called Red Guitar, Old Vine Tempranillo Garancha (Grenache?) that is spectacular with strong seasoned food, and very affordable. Etc.

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: GUEST,Concerened
Date: 11 May 13 - 07:56 AM

More crap talked about whiskey/whisky or watever than tyere is about wine.Dont youu self indulgant posers realise that there are more issues on people minds than the percieved quality of drink?
Fact is that most people cant afford the stuff that you lot of privalaged clowns with your gold plated salaries, pensions and/ or buy to rent portfolio sporting liberals and tories nomarks seem to mop up till your eyes bubble..you make me sick..

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 11 May 13 - 08:23 AM

Then go outside and puke. Stay there if you don't like the thread.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: GUEST,concerened
Date: 11 May 13 - 09:29 AM

Got every right to express my opinion as you have, Mr.Thread policeman.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 11 May 13 - 10:05 AM

Why bother, "concerned"? Did you read the whole thread? The discussion has to do with affordability, special occasions, and quality of the brand. You object to consumers educating themselves?

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 11 May 13 - 10:16 AM

"...privalaged clowns with your gold plated salaries..."

*grin*... don't I wish! I have at most 2-3 beers a WEEK, and make a bottle of Scotch last for months. Wine at holiday dinners... and mostly that brought by others.

At least my near poverty status doesn't prevent me from decent spelling.

Ah well, anonymous criticisms are popular on almost every topic.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 11 May 13 - 10:19 AM

You know what they say about opinions.
\
From what I've seen here, a rich mudcatter is an oxymoron.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: GUEST,concerened
Date: 11 May 13 - 12:15 PM

Well Bill D leaving aside that you are a self admitted bludger, who doesnt mind sponging of his good mates.you are also some kind of a smug buffoon whose only come back is my inabillity to spell

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 11 May 13 - 01:25 PM

Be careful with the personal attacks. That's the only no no here.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 11 May 13 - 04:12 PM

Mr. 'concerened', sir... YOU made a special effort, hiding your real name, to find fault with people for discussing their favorite drinks... when they can afford them. YOU assumed we were rich, and called us several nasty names.

YOU need lessons in manners...

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 11 May 13 - 07:19 PM

He came to the right place!

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 11 May 13 - 08:07 PM

Ignore him. He's a troll. Pour a dram and enjoy it!

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 11 May 13 - 09:09 PM

I expect by now he knows he is not welcome with that attitude.
"A sword, in its scabbard, keeps another so."

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Elmore
Date: 11 May 13 - 10:59 PM

Doesn't matter what the topic is. Some troll comes out from under the bridge to screw up the thread.(Was that a mixed metaphor?)

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 12 May 13 - 07:16 AM

Only if we allow it.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Dave the Gnome
Date: 12 May 13 - 09:19 AM

There is a much better term for people who give no-one but themselves any pleasure. Wanker. Sound like anyone round here?

DtG

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 12 May 13 - 10:31 AM

Hey, Kendall, I forgot to wish you happy birthday earlier this week. Did anyone give you Scotch for the occasion?

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 12 May 13 - 12:17 PM

No. sigh

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: GUEST,concerened
Date: 12 May 13 - 02:59 PM

Well, well, well..amazing aint it..a little criticism
and the self rightouse smug clowns join forces.The only personal attack came from Bill D.. the self admitted sponger.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: GUEST,concerened
Date: 12 May 13 - 03:47 PM

And that was against me with a nasty comment about my spelling.Well..hey!! I am big i am good.. to err is human to forgive devine..no need for your patronising remarks..

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 12 May 13 - 07:23 PM

No, no one gave me any Scotch for my birthday, now I shall have to save up my food stamps for three or four years and buy it myself.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: GUEST,concerened
Date: 13 May 13 - 01:47 PM

You are lucky to have food stamps..and now you are using them to buy booze?
e..you should be ashamed of yourself...thousands starving in the world and you can abuse a liberal caring system that feeds you? .and for nothing? Dreadful..hang your head in shame.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 13 May 13 - 03:26 PM

yes, Kendall.. for shame! ;>)

I was gonna share my 8 year old Glen Gyle with you at the Getaway, but now that you've admitted your Liberal ways, I may have to get you to hold the gun on me and make me drink it myself!

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 13 May 13 - 04:14 PM

Some people just don't understand sarcasm when they see/hear it!
I've never been on food stamps or welfare in my adult life.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Dave the Gnome
Date: 13 May 13 - 05:30 PM

Food stamps? Welfare? Bloody luxury. There's you bloody lot lording it over us with yer food stamps and bottles of Chateau de Chatelais. I get three ha'pence a week in handouts from t'local rag and bone man and spend it on me ration of extra strong lager and heroin. And still have enough change to buy a fish supper for thirty seven naked coal pickers.

Tell the kids nowadays and they won't believe you...

:D

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Elmore
Date: 13 May 13 - 06:38 PM

Can You buy sex workers with food stamps?

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 13 May 13 - 07:43 PM

handout? you get hand outs? I'd kill for a hand out! They throw their used ullage at me!

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 13 May 13 - 07:46 PM

Bill, have you worked out the route for your field trip to Total Wine and Spirits? They haven't expanded to Maine, the closest store to Kendall is in Norwalk, CT.

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 13 May 13 - 10:15 PM

I got 4 routes to 4 stores (Google Earth shows me all I need).... now I need to save gas money to drive there---which may preclude my buying spirits when I get there... *grin*

(mostly, it's being too busy next 3 weeks to do anything except make crafts and run the craft show at our annual folk festival....if I sell the right piece, I may treat myself to a bottle of something nice.)

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Dave Hanson
Date: 14 May 13 - 03:19 AM

Hey Concerned, at the weekend I had some 12 year old Lagavulin cask strength, 57.5 abv I'm a pensioner and I don't give a shit what you think.

Dave H

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 14 May 13 - 11:47 PM

What is the difference, aside from the alcohol proof, between "regular" single malt and "cask strength?" Does it taste different? How do they reduce the alcohol - do they mix water in before bottling to reduce it to (usually) 40%? Or is the 40% a level at which they bottle most of it, and for a stronger brew they leave some of it in the cask longer? If the higher the amount of alcohol means more sugars have been used in the fermentation process, is cask strength less-sweet?

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Dave the Gnome
Date: 15 May 13 - 03:39 AM

It is indeed diluted before bottling, SRS. The 'cask strength' is higher and there is a very good explanation here.

Cheers

DtG

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 15 May 13 - 07:05 AM

That
Cask strength" stuff is liquid dynamite!

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Dave Hanson
Date: 15 May 13 - 09:47 AM

Aberlour A'bunadh 59.5 abv

Ardbeg Uigeadail 54.2 abv

and

Lagavulin 12 year old abv 57.5

the 3 most georgous whiskies on the planet, drank neat of course.

Dave H

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 15 May 13 - 10:44 AM

Aberlour A'bunadh tastes... ummm... intense. Somehow, the basic flavor, when carried by higher proof, has a different effect on the system.. from taste buds to brain. One does not 'toss back' a dram of cask strength, just to prove you can do it. And a tiny dash of water does seem to help 'open' the flavor... (make up your own verbs).

I have a very small amount of Aberlour A'bunadh left... if I decide on a treat after my craft show, it will mean choosing between A'bunadh & Takisker. Haven't had Talisker in several years.

I used to buy... many years ago, Slivovitz Plum Brandy at 101 proof. People asked me "How can you stand such overwhelming stuff?" Easy... I sip it slowly and gently. I LIKE strong drink occasionally.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Dave the Gnome
Date: 15 May 13 - 11:08 AM

I must say that I tend to use a bit of water in standard strength so I think I would find cask strength too strong for my pallette. I am pretty sure though that the 'standard' 40% ABV came about to standardise whiskys as, ably demonstrated above, cask strengths can vary wildly. I could be wrong of course. And often am!

DtG

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 15 May 13 - 11:12 AM

Very interesting site, thanks Dave! Chapter six covered the information exactly!

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Dave Hanson
Date: 15 May 13 - 02:48 PM

Bill D is correct about cask strength, sip it very slowly and savour every drop, but no water.

Dave H

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Dave the Gnome
Date: 15 May 13 - 04:27 PM

One or two people would disagree, Dave, just a quick browse found umpteen recommendations to add a little still water but, hey, I know what you mean and every man to his own taste. As long as he doesn't try to inflict it on everyone else and insist everyone else is wrong! :-)

Cheers

DtG

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 15 May 13 - 04:44 PM

At this very moment I am raising a dram of 12 year old Aberlour to three people who are dear to me.
Andy,since 1957. He's in hospital with severe vertigo. He will be 91 in August.
My younger brother, Erlon, 77 today.
Utah Phillips who would also be 77 today.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 15 May 13 - 04:52 PM

Skoal!

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 10 Jun 13 - 07:20 AM

I ran out of Scotch! I was facing the grim specter of privation, so, in a panic, I trundled off to Hannafords for a 5th of Glenfiddich. Abelour is not know north of NH. The price looked more like a telephone number!
So, I searched the shelves until I came up with a more reasonably priced single malt. McClellands, half the price of the Glen Fiddich or Glen Morange. I was surprised at how smooth it is. If I can drink it neat, it's good.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 10 Jun 13 - 11:48 AM

Price doesn't necessarily mean it's one you'll enjoy more, I learned that with the Laphroaig. If you can afford it and not wince at the price every time you take a sip, that's a good thing!

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 10 Jun 13 - 07:45 PM

I can afford Glen Fiddich, Glen Morangie or Glen Livet. I simply choose not to buy anything that is obviously over priced.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Edthefolkie
Date: 11 Jun 13 - 10:21 AM

Just bought a bottle of Bunnahabhain 12 year old - it was on offer. Apparently it's not particularly peaty compared to Laphroaig and Lagavulin. And not chill filtered.

It's just sitting on a shelf at the moment, calling faintly to me. I may uncork it and abstemiously toast Iain Banks tonight.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 12 Jun 13 - 07:16 AM

Does the phrase, "On offer" sound like an oxymoron to you?

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Tattie Bogle
Date: 12 Jun 13 - 07:46 PM

Latest present from a friend was Aberfeldy: seriously nice, not very peaty, but I don't like too much smoke anyway. ( Aberfeldy is in Perthshire, lovely wee toon).

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: kendall
Date: 12 Jun 13 - 08:50 PM

Been there. It was mentioned in the loch Tay boat song.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Tattie Bogle
Date: 13 Jun 13 - 05:05 AM

"From Killin to Aberfeldy" - yes, good song, written by Harold Boulton ( he of the Skye Boat Song) - and there's another whisky for you!

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 06 Nov 13 - 05:20 PM

The Whisky Advent Calendar.

It is $238.78.

First came sliced bread. It was the best thing. Nothing could touch it. Nothing, that is, until Drinks By The Dram created The Whisky Advent Calendar! Now returning for a second outing, it still laughs in the face of chocolate advent calendars. "Ha!"

Behind each of the 24 windows lies a different 3cl sample dram of delicious whisky! This year, be sure to count down to Christmas in style! As each calendar is the same you'll be able to discuss the dram that's revealed each day, whether it be a single malt Scotch whisky or some other treat from around the world, with other proud owners of one of the very best things ever.

Like this? You'll absolutely love The Premium Whisky Advent Calendar!

Prefer gin? Check out The Ginvent Calendar!

Nobody's missing out around here - Merry Christmas!!!

*SPOILER ALERT* You can view the contents below if you really want to know by selecting 'Read more' - although we've still placed them in a random order so the surprise won't be completely ruined!

You're very welcome!

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 01 Sep 14 - 12:47 PM

http://sciencealert.com.au/news/20143108-26097-2.html

Scotland's 'space whisky' will return to Earth next month

Three years ago, researchers fired whisky to the International Space Station as part of an experiment to see how the conditions in space change flavours. Next month, the whisky will return to Earth.

A vial of malt whisky from Scotland's Ardbeg Distillery was launched to the International Space Station in October 2011 along with some particles of charred oak. A team from US-based space research organisation NanoRacks said it was an experiment to see how the two interacted in almost zero gravity conditions.

The whisky has been orbiting the Earth's atmosphere for 1,045 days so far, and is expected to land in Kazakhstan on 12 September. According to the BBC, it was launched by a Soyuz rocket from Baikonur in Kazakhstan, and an identical bottle of whisky has been kept at the distillery as a control.

Once the space whisky returns, it will be compared with the Earth whisky to see what changes have occurred.

more on the topic at the link

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 01 Sep 14 - 12:53 PM

The shot shot round the world?

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Janie
Date: 01 Sep 14 - 10:01 PM

So, let's get down to the important part - who gets to do the taste tests?

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 01 Sep 14 - 10:11 PM

I love Ardbeg. I'll do it!

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Jack Campin
Date: 02 Sep 14 - 01:53 PM

Ardbeg tastes like turps that's been used for swilling out ashtrays.

Surely Kazakhstan is a big enough place that they can come up with something better of their own.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 02 Sep 14 - 02:11 PM

Little do you know. I don't see a preference expressed by you in this thread, Jack. Do you drink Scotch?

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Q (Frank Staplin)
Date: 02 Sep 14 - 03:39 PM

Someone gave us a bottle of Japanese scotch. It showed a lot of prize medals on the label. Fair, but I prefer the real products.
A little got drunk, and then it stood on the shelf for ages. I poured it down the drain last week.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 02 Sep 14 - 07:06 PM

Ardbeg is a heavily peated malt, which I carefully avoid. The only malt with peat in it at all that I have liked is Springbank, and there the peat is light....and tempered by some hard-to-describe 'salty' essence.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 02 Sep 14 - 09:04 PM

The 10-year-old Ardbeg is just about perfect, but anything stonger with smoke or peat is too much. Laphroaig about makes my jaws lock.

A very close approximation to the Ardbeg is the Shieldaig (a store brand (!) from Total Wine in the U.S.) Highland single malt. It comes in at less than half the price. Not quite as much peat as Ardbeg.

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Joe_F
Date: 02 Sep 14 - 10:01 PM

Q: H. L. Mencken recorded: "It was the opinion of my father...that all the Baltimore beers were poisonous, but he nevertheless kept a supply of them in the house for visiting plumbers, tinners, cellar-inspectors, tax-assessors and so on, and for Class D social callers." Perhaps your Japanese Scotch might have been kept with that in mind.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 02 Sep 14 - 11:45 PM

Way above I mentioned the Glen Gyle that I offered Kendall. It could be used as Mencken advised.

And...hmmm... all my reading said that Ardbeg was heavy on the peat. *shrug*. I still doubt I'll go out of my way to try it.

My birthday present from my wife was a trip to the local county booze booth for my choice....always difficult to choose something new. I finally settled on a 12 yr. Glen Garioch, which turned out to be quite nice...B+/A-... highland malt.

I am quite happy.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 02 Sep 14 - 11:59 PM

It took me a while to sort smoke and peat in some Scotch varieties. Ardbeg is as strong as works for me. Shieldag has a very nice blended Scotch, they call finest old, that doesn't have much peat, but a nice hint of smoke.

SRS

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Jack Campin
Date: 03 Sep 14 - 05:10 AM

Where to find whisky in Kazakhstan:

http://www.mygola.com/almaty-d1006128/whisky-bar

I hope they stock Bushmills by the time I get there.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: eddie1
Date: 03 Sep 14 - 06:57 AM

Lyrics - Our Glens

I love Scotland Glens, and whatever else we lose,
Please leave us our Glens, our glorious Glens
Or mountains are grand, Ben Lomond, Ben Nevis too,
You can have all these Bens, but leave us our Glens.
Glenfiddich, Glenlivet, Glendronach,Glen Grant
Can you do without them, if you must know, I can't
Put a drop in a glass of Glen Grant or Glen Drottar
It's a perfectly bearable way to drink water
Take our Highland Schottishe, or marches, strathspeys and reels,
Take our old Scottish Waltz, but leave us our malts,
Remove if you will our Ladies conveniences,
And our Gentlemens, but leave us our Glens
Glenfarclas, Glen Lochy Glen Garioch, Glen Faul
I once knew a man who had sampled them all
Glen Ugie, Glenkinchie, Glen Isla, that's plenty
He looked 65, but in fact he ws 20.

I'd willingly lose our culture, or most of it,
Including that mess called Full Highland Dress
With the whole ethnic bit, with haggis and Hogmanay
I'd gladly dispense, but leave us our Glens
Glenturret, Glen Scotia and last week Glen Fyne
Was rare at communion when we ran out of wine
Glenglassoch, Glen Lossie, Glendullan Glenmorangie
I prefer them to Cointreau which I find too orangey.

So breathes there a Scot whose views and priorities
When laid on the line are different from mine
Take our jobs take our homes, take anything else you will
Wife, family and friends, but leave us our glens
Glenfiddich, Glenlivet, Glendronach,Glen Grant
Can you do without them, if you must know, I can't
Put a drop in a glass of Glen Grant or Glen Drottar
It's a perfectly bearable way to drink water

Our Glens
Buff Hardie/James Donald

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: GUEST,punkfolkrocker
Date: 03 Sep 14 - 10:15 AM

If I'm lucky I get 2 decent bottles of Malt for xmas.
It used to be 4 or 5 but the price per bottle now is too exorbitant.
Those were the days I could experiment with different regional distilleries and tastes.

Also the range of barely affordable bottles available in local supermarkets is pretty limited.

I do actually like the very peaty smokey, almost medicinal flavoured malts.
The ones that physically tingle the palate in the same way as a strong matured cheddar cheese.

Xmas/New Year malts, one of the few remaining vices I can still look forward too.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: GUEST,punkfolkrocker
Date: 03 Sep 14 - 10:24 AM

My compromise favourite for the past few years is the Talisker 10 years old.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 03 Sep 14 - 10:54 AM

A Bottle O' The Best
Sung by Ed Miller

(Words and music by Jack Foley, Grian Music)

Oh, when your time o' work is done
And you've earned yourself some fun
In the pub you start to sup your drink
And clinkin' every cup
Through the pint-pots you're perusin'
And you're boozin' till you're snoozin'
And you're losin' all your senses to the drink
And when all these folks so prim
Are swiggin' swill up to the brim
Wi' nips o' gin and numbered Pim's
wi' Sugar rubbed around the rim
Ah, let them drink it till they drop
For the sly besotted Scot
He'll be breakin' out a bottle o' the best!

Aye, to hell wi' all the rest
Give me a bottle o' the best
The amber bead I'll down wi' speed
It's not bad taste or waste, just greed
And a whiskey-still I'll kill
I'll drink my fill and if I spill a gill
You know I will, I'll lick it off the floor!
I'll not touch Teachers*, Grants* or Haig*
Give me Bowemore* or Laphroaig*
Glen Farglas* in a glass,
Well you can throw the top away
For there's no use to pretend
Oh, you'll need the cork again,
When you've broken out a bottle o' the best

And the English like their ale
Warm and flat straight out the pail
They aye slitter* wi' their bitter*
It would slaughter Jack The Ripper
And they sip their cider rough
They sniff their snuff and huff and puff
And as if that's not enough they start to sing!
Of when Jones's Ale was New*
And John Barleycorn's Fine Brew*
Oh, Fathom the Bowl*, The Barley Mow*,
Roll Out The Barrel*, just a few;
But their songs are far surpassed
By the tinkle in the glass
When you've broken out a bottle o' the best!

And the Irish wi' their pride o' Erin
Think they can deride
Our golden water wi' their patter
When they're out there on the batter*
Sixteen hundred pints o' stout
A drinkin' bout without a doubt
And if they've no got the gout they start to dance
To Father O'Flynn* and Larry O'Gaff*,
Biddy the Bowleife* for a laugh
The Young May Moon*, The Garryown*
And The Blackbird* drives them daft;
But their jigs have no appeal
To the Scot who likes to reel
When he's broken out a bottle o' the best!

Aye, a bottle o' the best
That's what it is, nay idle jest
No Mickey Finn, no bathtub gin
No rotgut wine that tastes like Vim*
Have no fear it's not like beer
Malt whiskey's bright and strong and clear
Aye, it's also bloody dear, but what the hell!
And it belts ye in the belly
Like a heavyweight Lochgelly*
A glow begins to grow,
Six in a row turns you to jelly
And then you fall down in a heap
Then you dream perchance to sleep
For you've broken out a bottle o' the best
Aye, you've broken out a bottle o' the best!

*Nips - shots; Teacher's, Grant's, Haig - blended Scotch whiskies; Bowmore, Laphroaig, Glenfarclas - single malt Scotch whiskies; Slitter - to make a mess; Bitter - English beer; Jones Ale Was New, etc - English drinking songs; Batter - a drinking binge; Father O'Flynn, etc - Irish Dance tunes; Vim - a bathroom cleanser; Lochgelly - leather strap once used as punishment in Scottish schools. It was named after the town of Lochgelly where it was manufactured.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 03 Sep 14 - 01:32 PM

Talisker is certainly a way to attain sensual input from malt!

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 09 Sep 15 - 12:28 AM

Just in case you thought everything that can be said about whisky has been said, I give you

The Space Glass

This "Space Glass" Lets You Drink Whiskey In Orbit

My current favorite is still the $50/750ml Ardbeg, and the Total Wine knockoff called Sheildag Highland Finest Old (at less than half the price of Ardbeg) is a good substitution. Since I'm not in space, I use a lovely crystal glass for my single malt.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Tattie Bogle
Date: 09 Sep 15 - 04:54 AM

A friend of ours does whisky tastings: very entertaining and lots of info about the various distilleries. 5 drams in one evening, punctuated by a break for oatcakes and Scottish cheeses.
The last one included Tamdhu, Knockando, Glengoyne and A'Bunadh, and started with a blend.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: GUEST,Sol
Date: 09 Sep 15 - 08:43 AM

My fav malts are Macallans, Aberlour & Glen Moray.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Vashta Nerada
Date: 17 Aug 17 - 10:53 AM

One more word on the subject of how to drink whisky.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Steve Shaw
Date: 17 Aug 17 - 11:52 AM

There are two newish Taliskers around, neither of which can hold a candle to the original Talisker 10-y-o. They're called Talisker Storm and Talisker Skye. Don't waste yer money. Go for the real thing. When it comes to Laphroaig, however, I love both the original 10-y-o and the Quarter Cask. In my opinion, Laphroaig Select is an inferior beast. Mrs Steve bought me a bottle of Ardbeg Uigeadail for our 40th wedding anniversary. Without question, it's the finest malt I've ever tasted. I never, ever put water in my whisky and I'd rather hack off my family jewels with a rusty machete than put ice in it.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Steve Shaw
Date: 18 Aug 17 - 08:31 PM

Macallan was the first malt I ever experienced, forty years ago. Macallan 10-year-old was always my very favourite. But then they started messing around with names and I never knew what was what. I'm not paying thirty quid or more to be disappointed by a dram that I thought was going to take me back all those years but doesn't. I'd be happy if someone could clear this up. What's the equivalent, if there is one, of the Macallan 10-y-o of old?

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 18 Aug 17 - 11:51 PM

I am now accustomed to drinking my favorite Scotch without ice or water.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Raggytash
Date: 19 Aug 17 - 02:33 AM

More than forty years ago I was on Syke and paid a kings ransom for a 25 year old Talisker. It was not pleasant. An old chap sitting at the bar said put a tad of water into it. I, like you Steve, thought such a thing was almost sacrilege, but he quite insistent and he was right. The water released all the oils and flavour and it transformed into a most wonderful dram, so don't knock a touch of water.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Dave the Gnome
Date: 19 Aug 17 - 03:30 AM

I thought it was just 'The Macallan' Steve but I could be wrong. Going full circle to the start of the thread I find Ardmore just as good and often at a reduced price in Morrisons :-) Shame we don't get our staff discount on spirits. They brought that in when they thought a minimum price per unit of alcohol was going to be introduced. That never happened but they never reintroduced the discount :-(

DtG

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Dave the Gnome
Date: 19 Aug 17 - 03:34 AM

My apologies - The thread started about Aberlour - That is what I meant on all counts in my post above. I think Ardmore is a highland rather than a Speyside. I am sure I have had it but can't bring it to mind.

DtG

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Dave Hanson
Date: 19 Aug 17 - 09:08 AM

Just checked with the bible, Ardmore is a Speyside.

Dave H

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Steve Shaw
Date: 19 Aug 17 - 09:50 AM

That's because it was founded by a Yorkshireman, Dave.



Q. How does a Yorkshireman make an omelette?


A. First, he nicks three eggs...

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Dave Hanson
Date: 19 Aug 17 - 03:14 PM

As the saying goes ' you can't make omelttes without nicking eggs ' [ old Lancashire proverb ]

Dave H

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Dave Hanson
Date: 19 Aug 17 - 03:17 PM

and tonight I be mostly drinking Ardbeg Uigeadail, surely one of the finest whisky's in the world.

Dave H

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Steve Shaw
Date: 19 Aug 17 - 05:54 PM

Indeed, Dave. I happen to have a small supply of that meself.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Joe_F
Date: 19 Aug 17 - 06:09 PM

In the Jewish version, it's a Rumanian omelet. First, steal three eggs....

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Dave Hanson
Date: 20 Aug 17 - 05:59 AM

My other favourite is Lagavulin 12 year old, another peat monster from Islay.

Dave H

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Dave the Gnome
Date: 20 Aug 17 - 06:02 AM

Thanks Dave - I could do with a copy of that bible :-)

DtG

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Dave Hanson
Date: 20 Aug 17 - 12:29 PM

Jim Murray's Whisky Bible, published annually by Dram Good Books, not cheap, tends to be a bit the same every year, I last bought one in 2016 I don't bother now.
You could probably buy it cheaper online


Dave H

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Dave the Gnome
Date: 20 Aug 17 - 01:50 PM

The Whisky shop is only 5 miles away from us and, using my bus pass, I can be there in 20 minutes. I could learn a lot there. Not sure how long it would take me to get back...

:D tG

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Dave Hanson
Date: 21 Aug 17 - 02:16 AM

I have been a regular customer of Wrights for many years, great shop.

Dave H

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Gallus Moll
Date: 21 Aug 17 - 02:01 PM

There's a community funded distillery being constructed near Dingwall at the moment, called Glenwyvis, and there is a share offer open at the moment! Have a look at Glenwyvis Distillery Ltd and you can learn more, think they also have a facebook page? And - you can watch as the distillery is being put together.
If you cannot afford shares you could always support in another way by paying to have your name as a subscriber carved onto a wall or beside a pathway.
they are already producing gin, hope to start distilling whisky soon, tho it will be three years before you get to taste any- ---!

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Dave the Gnome
Date: 21 Aug 17 - 03:14 PM

Must meet up sometime then Dave. I think I could learn a lot! Have you visited the Gin bar in Skipton as well?

DtG

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Dave Hanson
Date: 22 Aug 17 - 02:22 AM

Gin Bar in Skipton ? no but I'll have a look next time I'm there, I usually call in at The Wooly Sheep for a pint or 2 of Taylors when I'm in Skipton.

Dave H

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Dave the Gnome
Date: 22 Aug 17 - 04:17 AM

VSQ Bar

I noted with interest that the drinks range was chosen with the assistance of Wrights!

Wooly Sheep is good but I tend to gravitate to either the Narrow Boat or the Beer Engine. Early Doors is quite good as well if you are there early on and their beer is very reasonably priced.

Cheers

DtG

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Dave Hanson
Date: 22 Aug 17 - 05:42 AM

I'm off up to Wright's in a while for a bottle of Ardbeg 10 year old and a bottle of Aberlour A'Bunadh, this also a great whisky at a great price for 60.5 abv

Dave H

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Dave the Gnome
Date: 22 Aug 17 - 08:07 AM

I am off to Whitby tomorrow so will not get chance to go to Wrights until the first Saturday in Sept but I shall bear your recommendations in mind :-)

Cheers

DtG

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Dave Hanson
Date: 22 Aug 17 - 08:50 AM

This A'Bunadh, batch 58 was bottled at 61.1 abv. delicious.

Dave H

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Tattie Bogle
Date: 13 Sep 17 - 04:48 AM

Won a bottle in Saturday's raffle: Smoky Black Grouse. Apparently a blend of smoky peaty single malts, so probably won't suit my taste: will let you know!
Yes to A'Bunadh!

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Steve Shaw
Date: 13 Sep 17 - 04:52 AM

Free whisky always suits my taste. Just don't start the evening with it, that's all.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Dave the Gnome
Date: 13 Sep 17 - 07:38 AM

...and the ABV of the standard whisky x 10 is...

400!

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Tattie Bogle
Date: 14 Sep 17 - 02:20 PM

Smoky Black Grouse no bad at a'!

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 14 Sep 17 - 09:09 PM

Congratulations on that raffle win!

Subject: BS: Single malts
From: Steve Shaw
Date: 18 Dec 18 - 07:08 PM

I will drink any single malt whisky, from lightweight to the heaviest smoky peaty jobs. However, though I may be a prosecco socialist, I am no millionaire. I definitely prefer the heavier peaty jobs. My two go-tos are Talisker ten-year-old (beware of those imposters, Talisker Storm and Talisker Skye) and Laphroaig ten-year-old (beware of the terribly inferior Laphroaig Select, but the Quarter Cask is very good). But today is my 42nd wedding anniversary, and, for the third year running, Mrs Steve has bought me a bottle of Ardbeg Uigeadail. I think it costs about fifty quid, but, I tell you, this is by far the finest malt I have ever supped. It's dear, but it's 52% vol. so you get a lot of bang for your bucks. The damnedest finest dram I've ever supped. It's malt. Discuss.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 18 Dec 18 - 07:28 PM

Steve, I transferred your post, please read through this remarkable thread to see what people have already had to say about Scotch. My favorite is the Ardbeg (not the most expensive one). I found a very good comparable tasting one in the US from Total Wine and More, their Sheildag house brand, the Highland variety.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Gallus Moll
Date: 18 Dec 18 - 07:42 PM

apologies if this has been mentioned already - havnae time tae read thro' it all!
Was half- watching Rick Stein the other day because he was in Australia - in fact, Tasmania, and one of the places he visited was - a small whisky distillery!! Think it jas been going about 15 years? they grow their own barley on the (large) island -- and their single malt has recently been awarded - best in the world? unless I misheard it -- not sure who was judging it and as it doesn't have a large output we may never get a chance to taste it here- -
I am not sure if I approve of whisky produced outwith Scotland getting to call itself malt or single malt?!

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Steve Shaw
Date: 18 Dec 18 - 08:19 PM

Dammit, Maggie, I now realise how I've duplicated meself in this thread! Still, with Christmas coming and, along with it, the eager unwrapping of whisky-shaped parcels to come, it seems like an appropriate revival of a very fertile theme for discussion. And definitely do not add either water or ice (heaven especially forfend the latter) to any malt worthy of its name. If I hear of anyone doing that, be aware that I'm very likely to call a constable.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 18 Dec 18 - 10:11 PM

I stopped adding anything to whisky a long time ago. It did take a while to cultivate a taste. I find that now that this is my main hard liquor, when I go through the liquor store and see all of the candy-flavored gins and vodkas and such they are totally off-putting.

And a whisky-shaped parcel sounds like a very nice holiday gift!

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Donuel
Date: 18 Dec 18 - 10:28 PM

Happy Anniversary Steve

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Dave Hanson
Date: 19 Dec 18 - 02:16 AM

I've drank most of the Ardbeg expressions, they are all fabulous, Steve Shaw is spot on about Laphroaig Select, what were they thinking of, it's probably why most supermarkets stock it as their cheapest brand, for supermarket own brands Asda's Islay is hard to beat, and it's only £18.50 a bottle.

Don't get me on about Lagavulin, absolute top whisky IMHO.

Dave H

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Steve Shaw
Date: 19 Dec 18 - 04:48 AM

Lagavulin always seems a bit dear. The Lagavulin 16 is a thing of beauty, for sure. On the subject of mucking about with names and expressions, years ago I was a Macallan addict, then they started mucking about and I never knew which of the labels belonged to the beloved Macallan ten-year-old. Around the same time I developed a taste for the peaty, smoky Islay ones so I stopped fretting about Macallan. I watch the shelves like a hawk for the Talisker 10-year-old on sale with a few quid off, but more often than not it isn't even there, replaced by those extremely unworthy substitutes Talisker Skye and Talisker Storm. Is nothing sacred?

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Dave Hanson
Date: 19 Dec 18 - 07:08 AM

I visited the Talisker distilery on Skye many years ago, wonderful place and 10 year old is one of the worlds geat whiskies, Talisker Storm is not bad but Talisker Skye seems very wishy washy to me without peat.

Lagavulin 16 year old is is great whisky but well overpriced, it seems to be priced that way to keep it exclusive, I rather like the 12 year old cask strength mind, my current one is 57.7% abv abottle at Sainsbury's to

I regularly troll the supermarkets fo bargains, Ardbeg 10 year old £36 at Sainsbury's and £37 at Tesco this morning.

Dave H

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Dave the Gnome
Date: 19 Dec 18 - 10:24 AM

Wot's wrong with Vodka and Irn Bru?

:D tG

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: keberoxu
Date: 19 Dec 18 - 01:08 PM

Well, Irn Bru may well be Scottish,
but is it Scotch? I doubt it --
and I don't even drink ... alcohol ...

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: keberoxu
Date: 19 Dec 18 - 01:32 PM

Like Gallus Moll, preceding,
I have not looked at every post on every page on this thread.
So, for all I can tell,
someone has already posted a link to this six-and-a-half minute video.

As I have read, this video was commissioned by the Johnnie Walker people
to show to Diageo, the Japanese firm which acquired Johnnie Walker;
it was intended as an in-house educational tool.

The video leaked online, however, and went viral.
Robert Carlyle, asked for details about shooting the video,
remarked that the final take was near the end of daylight,
it was roughly Take 34, and he was "knackered."

The Man Who Walked Around The World

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Senoufou
Date: 19 Dec 18 - 04:19 PM

Nothing to do with Scotch, so apologies for the Drift, but does anyone know if one can buy miniatures of brandy anywhere? We're usually teetotal, but I want a tiny bottle of brandy to pour over the Crimbo pudding. None of the supermarkets seem to sell miniatures any more, and we certainly don't want a blooming great bottle of the stuff.
Any ideas?

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Steve Shaw
Date: 19 Dec 18 - 04:54 PM

If you want it to catch fire it needs to say at least 40% Vol on the bottle.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Jos
Date: 19 Dec 18 - 05:16 PM

I don't know about miniatures but you could probably buy a quarter-bottle, and keep it for next year and the year after, ... for years.
If the supermarkets don't have them, try an off-licence.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Senoufou
Date: 19 Dec 18 - 05:24 PM

Thank you Steve and Jos!
I don't think I'll set it alight (might do though, could be fun!) and I've convinced Muslim husband that any alcohol will evaporate with the heat of the pudding. I just want to pour about three drops onto the thing once it's in our pudding bowls, then add double cream.
I see that Asda has what they call a 'mini bar' so might investigate that.

My fav whisky used to be Glenfiddich, but only a tiny wee taste at Hogmanay and Burn's Night. It's a bit strong for me.

Actually Jos, buying a quarter bottle of brandy and keeping it would be a good idea if we can't get a miniature. I'm sure it does keep for years!

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Steve Shaw
Date: 19 Dec 18 - 05:27 PM

I was thinking that myself. We generally buy a bottle of Morrisons cheapie (the cheapest at 40% Vol, mind), which lasts us for donkeys' years. We never drink it as actual brandy. Miniatures are incredibly bad value.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Steve Shaw
Date: 19 Dec 18 - 05:27 PM

That was to Jos.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Steve Shaw
Date: 19 Dec 18 - 05:34 PM

It will keep for ever. If you set fire to booze it burns off all the alcohol. I never use wine in cooking until I've boiled it in a small saucepan then set fire to the vapour. Not only is that fun, it also removes the harshness that alcohol adds to dishes. I got that tip from Elizabeth David. Can't say fairer than that!

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Mossback
Date: 19 Dec 18 - 05:46 PM

What's the concensus on Craigellachie 13 year old?

Thanks,

Bill

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Steve Shaw
Date: 19 Dec 18 - 06:19 PM

Never had that one. I'm determined to live to 135 so that I can sample every malt in existence. My liver may not agree.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Tattie Bogle
Date: 19 Dec 18 - 07:09 PM

I may also be repeating myself, having previously contributed to the thread and having a bad attack of deja vu when I first saw Steve's "new" thread (subsequently merged with the older one!)
Yes, I still like A-Bunadh, and no, I don't, on the whole, like the heavily peated ones. (Some reminiscent of operating theatres with all that carbolic!)
Have to make an exception for the Lagavulin 16-year old, as (on another lucky day!) we won a bottle while visiting a "ceilidh night" at the Lagavulin distillery some years ago: we didn't have the first ticket out of the raffle hat, but the lady who did had worked for the distillery so wasn't bothered about winning another bottle of whisky: she went for a piece of local pottery. Ours was the second ticket out, and guess what prize we chose?
And my third lucky win was the "Roll a £1 coin at the bottle" - a favourite game at ceilidhs as everyone thinks they are a crack shot and this will be easy: the coin nearest the bottle wins. Easy to raise £100 or more in a few minutes if you have a half-decent bottle to roll at: on this occasion it was Glenkinchie, from Pencaitland near Edinburgh: more than half-decent! And I won!
As for adding things to whisky: YES to water in moderation, no to anything else. It "releases the vapours" - if you go to any official whisky tasting, they will advise you first to try the whisky neat, then to add small amounts of water: you will get far more amazing flavours out of it than just drinking it neat all the time.It is not diluting it; it's bringing on a whole new experience!

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Steve Shaw
Date: 19 Dec 18 - 07:25 PM

My abundant saliva dilutes the whisky quite enough, thanks! And don't forget that all these malts that hover around 40% have been well diluted already.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Dave Hanson
Date: 20 Dec 18 - 02:40 AM

Never put anything in a single malt, except another one.

Dave H

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Dave the Gnome
Date: 20 Dec 18 - 04:46 AM

I add water sometimes but our tap water does have a chlorine-y taint so I use bottled stuff. Or just let the tap water stand in a jug for a while. I never put ice with Scotch but do with bourbon or other American whiskies. Not sure why!

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Tattie Bogle
Date: 20 Dec 18 - 09:29 AM

Well you really are missing something by never adding water.....
The friend who puts on very good whisky tastings at our local rugby club will only use one brand of bottled water, Highland Spring.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 21 Dec 18 - 07:45 PM

Single malt does make a great gift, if you know others who drink it. I seem to be the only one in my immediate circle of friends and family who enjoys it.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Steve Shaw
Date: 21 Dec 18 - 08:23 PM

We thought my sister had wanted me to get a bottle of malt for Christmas for me for which she would later reimburse me. So I bought a bottle of Laphroaig Ten. But it seems we had our messages crossed, and she's bringing me a bottle that she's already bought. So I now have a redundant bottle of Laphroaig.




Damn.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Tattie Bogle
Date: 21 Dec 18 - 08:47 PM

Never redundant! It will keep......or maybe it won't.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 15 Oct 23 - 10:32 AM

I was reminded of this thread today, and I thought I would add my recent acquisition of this:
https://www.masterofmalt.com/whiskies/highland-park/highland-park-15-year-old-viking-heart-whisky/

Sipping it very slowly

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 15 Oct 23 - 12:05 PM

We've been reading the same discussion elsewhere; after a couple of dozen tests of different single malt products I settled on the store brand at Total Wine (actually, they say it isn't a store brand, but they buy about 95% of what that company makes, so few others carry it). The Shieldag Highland variety. I recently was in a different store poking around and found a Macleod's Islay single malt that has about the same amount of smoke and peat (and they say salt); I think it's more typical for that flavor mix in the Islay, from talking to a couple of clerks about varieties.

Anyway, the complexity and less-sweet aspects of Scotch appeal to me much more than sweet cocktails (the subject of that other discussion).

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Steve Shaw
Date: 15 Oct 23 - 12:21 PM

I've become inordinately fond of Ardbeg Ten in recent times.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 15 Oct 23 - 01:32 PM

The Shieldag that I like is as close as I could come to the Ardbeg without the sticker shock, and the Macleod fits in that (though it's closer to the price I paid for Ardbeg last time I bought it.)

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 15 Oct 23 - 01:53 PM

It turns out that the Total Wine store nearest to where I'll be moving soon doesn't carry hard liquor. Evidently Virginia has adopted a 'hard liquor only at state ABC stores' policy. I've never been to one, so I have no idea of what they carry.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Steve Shaw
Date: 15 Oct 23 - 01:59 PM

I never buy malts for myself, Maggie. I solicit them from my nearest and dearest at Christmas and for my birthday, which events, fortuitously, are just about six months apart. Ardbeg Ten usually comes in at about £45 which is very pricey, but swooping is done when it's on offer anywhere.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Sol
Date: 19 Oct 23 - 07:17 PM

From my limited experience, I have found Aberlour to be my 2nd favourite. Macallan's being it's only superior.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 19 Oct 23 - 07:24 PM

I got my interest in Scotch thru MacAllan's. Aberlour is a fine substitute.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Steve Shaw
Date: 19 Oct 23 - 07:32 PM

Well I've always found that Abelour is just a bit dull. Sorry to be a contrarian. I'm biased because I'm a confirmed heavy peat man, so don't listen to me!

Tragically, I've just seen Talisker ten at fifty-two quid in Waitrose. I'm in mourning.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Dave the Gnome
Date: 20 Oct 23 - 02:57 AM

Lidl's Ben Bracken malts are surprisingly good for about £17. They do Highland, Islay and Speyside with the latter being my favourite. I also start to sing Sir James the Rose when I drink it. Because it rhymes:-D

On a blended tangent, anyone know what has become of Stewart's Cream of the Barley? I used to like that but have not seen it for years.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 22 Oct 23 - 02:46 PM

I think Kendall decided Abelour was his favorite, if I recall the results as we tasted various brands available when this thread started over a decade ago. That's about the only thing I know about that brand.

It always strikes me as unusual that some of you in the UK (or all of you in the UK?) can buy hard liquor in the grocery store. Most of the states I've been in will allow beer and wine sales in grocery venues, but higher proof needs a separate business. Only in Arizona did I see everything for sale in one place (and that was in Walgreens pharmacies - I don't remember if hard stuff is sold in groceries? They may need to be in a separate room because of minors in the store.)

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Backwoodsman
Date: 22 Oct 23 - 03:49 PM

Back when I still drank alcohol (i.e. Pre-2006) my favourite Malt was Bunnahabheinn, from the NE coast of Islay. Heavy, dark, peaty. Eighteen years since I had a taste. Visited the distillery several times during my sea-going years.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: gillymor
Date: 22 Oct 23 - 04:43 PM

I'm not much of a Scotch drinker but I have a bottle of Lagavulin 16 sitting on a side table in the living room that serves as a memorial to my late friend and fishing buddy, Don who left it to me, probably as a posthumous effort to convert me to the stuff but I haven't got the heart to open it.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Donuel
Date: 23 Oct 23 - 06:35 AM

I was surprised to learn there are people who take Scotch intravenously. They say they can still taste it.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: gillymor
Date: 23 Oct 23 - 07:01 AM

50 ccs 12 yr. old single malt stat!
Seems like there was a time back in the '70's or 80's when rock stars were shooting up booze for fun.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Big Al Whittle
Date: 23 Oct 23 - 05:46 PM

I think the Scotch I really loved was Talisker. About four seconds after the first taste, there was this peppery after taste. Quite exquisite.

If God really has it in for me _ I'll spend the first million years of eternity going round apologising for my behaviour chasing that after taste.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 24 Oct 23 - 01:16 PM

"..don't listen to me!"
Got it, Steve. I understand...sort of... why folks choose heavy peat. I also understand why some choose very hot peppers, but I don't listen to them either!
   I suppose we 'could' pool our money and share some Talisker.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 25 Oct 23 - 05:09 PM

gillymor, it's a shame not to open it, just to see what they were sharing with you. If you aren't fond of it the contents still might be welcome by occasional guests to your home.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: gillymor
Date: 26 Oct 23 - 04:40 AM

SRS, I'm well familiar with this whisky as it was my old pal's favorite tipple on special occasions. The bottle, which has been the centerpiece of a small shrine for about 6 years is going to a family member after I'm no longer around. He'll be able to appreciate it far more than I ever could.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Steve Shaw
Date: 26 Oct 23 - 06:06 AM

“Too much of anything is bad, but too much good whiskey is barely enough.” — Mark Twain


“There is no such thing as bad whiskey. Some whiskeys just happen to be better than others. But a man shouldn’t fool with booze until he’s fifty; then he’s a damn fool if he doesn’t.”

? William Faulkner

All very wise, apart from the spelling. Decades ago, I read a quote somewhere that went something like: "There's no bad whisky. There's only very good whisky and excellent whisky" but I can't find it now.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Steve Shaw
Date: 26 Oct 23 - 06:07 AM

Gosh, my preview version of that post didn't look like that!

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Big Al Whittle
Date: 26 Oct 23 - 01:27 PM

Mind you the taste of Talisker was a bit like medical liquid.

I loved that toffee flavour of Whyte and Mackay. Sainsbury's Irish whiskey was light and perfumed, it was my favourite - but they stopped doing it.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Steve Shaw
Date: 26 Oct 23 - 02:26 PM

Ah yes, I remember that Sainsbury's one. Very nice it was.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 26 Oct 23 - 05:44 PM

" "There's no bad whisky. There's only very good whisky and excellent whisky" but I can't find it now. "

I have this partial bottle of 8 year old Glen Gyle that might change your mind. It was a gift along with some good stuff.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Steve Shaw
Date: 26 Oct 23 - 06:22 PM

I don't think we have that one here.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Donuel
Date: 26 Oct 23 - 06:31 PM

A good 20 year old Scotch with a splash of Drambuie is what I prefer.
Some call it a rusty nail.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Raggytash
Date: 26 Oct 23 - 06:36 PM

Philistine

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: gillymor
Date: 26 Oct 23 - 06:52 PM

Bill you reminded me of a bottle of McClelland’s Single Malt Lowland that was gifted me (probably regifted as it was from a teatotaller) and it was so bad that I took one swig of it and stuck it in the kitchen closet where it remained for years until one desperate, boozeless night after running out of beer at a jam session we disposed of it. I see now they're getting $26 A bottle for that truly nasty swill.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Steve Shaw
Date: 26 Oct 23 - 06:59 PM

Philistine indeed. Putting something sweet into a 20-year-old malt is the action of a man who shouldn't be allowed anywhere near a bottle of whisky. He needs to stick to kiddie alcopops.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 29 Oct 23 - 12:44 AM

My local newspaper ran this story but it has a paywall, so I think this will serve (but damn, it's a day too late!): Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board Opens Entry For Limited-Release Lottery Featuring Highly Sought Products

10/23/2023

Entry deadline 5:00 PM Friday

Harrisburg – The Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board (PLCB), through its Limited-Release Lottery, will award lottery winners the opportunity to purchase 4,429 bottles of rare whiskeys.

Pennsylvania residents and licensees will have until 5:00 PM Friday, Oct. 27, to opt in to the lottery by visiting the Limited-Release Lottery web page.

This event will feature six products in five lotteries. Participants may opt in to one, several, or all of these lotteries. If a participant wins the right to purchase a bottle in a drawing, they will be removed from subsequent drawings in that lottery. Purchase is limited to one bottle per participant per lottery. Only one entry per household per lottery is allowed; duplicative entries will be disqualified.

Lotteries will be held, in the following order, to award the opportunity to purchase individual bottles:

Lottery 1

Blanton's Gold Straight Bourbon, $119.99 each – 477 bottles for individual consumers, 159 bottles for licensees.
Blanton's Straight From the Barrel Bourbon, $149.99 each – 483 bottles for individual consumers, 160 bottles for licensees.

Lottery 2

Eagle Rare Straight Bourbon 17 Year Old 2022 Release, $109.99 each – 1 bottle for individual consumers.

Lottery 3

Heaven Hill Heritage Collection Straight Corn Whiskey 20 Year Old 2023 Edition, $289.99 each – 150 bottles for individual consumers, 49 bottles for licensees.

Lottery 4

Russell's Reserve Straight Bourbon 13 Year Old Barrel Proof, $149.99 each – 566 bottles for individual consumers, 188 bottles for licensees.

Lottery 5

Stagg Straight Bourbon Barrel Proof, $54.99 each – 1,647 bottles for individual consumers, 549 bottles for licensees.
Both retail entrantsOpens In A New Window and licensee entrantsOpens In A New Window should carefully review the lottery Terms and Conditions, as failure to comply will result in disqualification.

Individual consumers and licensees interested in entering one or more drawings must have an active account with FWGS.comOpens In A New Window with billing information on file. Each participant is encouraged to verify that accurate, up-to-date billing information is associated with his or her customer account, to prevent transaction delays or cancellations. Once the Limited-Release Lottery registration period closes, entrants will not be able to update payment information. If someone is selected as a winner and payment is declined for any reason, the entrant will forfeit their entry and the opportunity to purchase the bottle. Entrants are encouraged to review their accounts to verify that payment/billing information and delivery location are accurate before entering the lottery.

Store delivery of Limited-Release Lottery products is required; failure to identify a valid store for delivery may result in the loss of the right to purchase that product. All lottery item(s) purchased will be delivered to the physical Fine Wine & Good Spirits (FW&GS) location chosen by the entrant at the time of entry. Only individuals submitting eligible entries will be able to pick up their lottery purchases in their designated stores after presenting valid photo ID; bottles will not be released by stores to alternate pickup persons or anyone other than the lottery entrant. Winning entrants who fail to personally appear to pick up their lottery purchase(s) or who otherwise attempt to circumvent these requirements will be disqualified.

In light of attempts by previous lottery winners to illegally resell products obtained through Limited-Release Lotteries, the lottery Terms and Conditions remind residents that the sale of alcoholic beverages without a license is strictly prohibited under Pennsylvania law. When entering a Limited-Release Lottery, a participant will be asked to acknowledge that he or she has read and understands these terms and conditions.

Limited-Release Lotteries are open to Pennsylvania residents and licensees age 21 or older who provide both a verifiable Pennsylvania billing address and a FW&GS store address at registration. Any registrant with a billing address that cannot be verified as a Pennsylvania address will be removed from the lottery. Entries will be vetted for duplicative names, addresses, and other information, and duplicates will be deleted from the lottery pool.

Lottery drawings will be witnessed by an independent third party. Winners will be selected at random by computer program. Participants will be notified by email when the lottery process is complete.

The PLCB regulates the distribution of beverage alcohol in Pennsylvania, operates 600 wine and spirits stores statewide, and licenses 20,000 alcohol producers, retailers, and handlers. The PLCB also works to reduce and prevent dangerous and underage drinking through partnerships with schools, community groups, and licensees. Taxes and store profits – totaling nearly $20.3 billion since the agency's inception – are returned to Pennsylvania's General Fund, which finances Pennsylvania's schools, health and human services programs, law enforcement, and public safety initiatives, among other important public services. The PLCB also provides financial support for the Pennsylvania State Police Bureau of Liquor Control Enforcement, the Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs, other state agencies, and local municipalities across the state. For more information about the PLCB, visit lcb.pa.gov

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 15 Oct 23 - 10:32 AM

I was reminded of this thread today, and I thought I would add my recent acquisition of this:
https://www.masterofmalt.com/whiskies/highland-park/highland-park-15-year-old-viking-heart-whisky/

Sipping it very slowly

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 15 Oct 23 - 01:53 PM

It turns out that the Total Wine store nearest to where I'll be moving soon doesn't carry hard liquor. Evidently Virginia has adopted a 'hard liquor only at state ABC stores' policy. I've never been to one, so I have no idea of what they carry.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 19 Oct 23 - 07:24 PM

I got my interest in Scotch thru MacAllan's. Aberlour is a fine substitute.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Dave the Gnome
Date: 20 Oct 23 - 02:57 AM

Lidl's Ben Bracken malts are surprisingly good for about £17. They do Highland, Islay and Speyside with the latter being my favourite. I also start to sing Sir James the Rose when I drink it. Because it rhymes:-D

On a blended tangent, anyone know what has become of Stewart's Cream of the Barley? I used to like that but have not seen it for years.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 15 Oct 23 - 12:05 PM

We've been reading the same discussion elsewhere; after a couple of dozen tests of different single malt products I settled on the store brand at Total Wine (actually, they say it isn't a store brand, but they buy about 95% of what that company makes, so few others carry it). The Shieldag Highland variety. I recently was in a different store poking around and found a Macleod's Islay single malt that has about the same amount of smoke and peat (and they say salt); I think it's more typical for that flavor mix in the Islay, from talking to a couple of clerks about varieties.

Anyway, the complexity and less-sweet aspects of Scotch appeal to me much more than sweet cocktails (the subject of that other discussion).

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 15 Oct 23 - 01:32 PM

The Shieldag that I like is as close as I could come to the Ardbeg without the sticker shock, and the Macleod fits in that (though it's closer to the price I paid for Ardbeg last time I bought it.)

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Steve Shaw
Date: 15 Oct 23 - 12:21 PM

I've become inordinately fond of Ardbeg Ten in recent times.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Steve Shaw
Date: 15 Oct 23 - 01:59 PM

I never buy malts for myself, Maggie. I solicit them from my nearest and dearest at Christmas and for my birthday, which events, fortuitously, are just about six months apart. Ardbeg Ten usually comes in at about £45 which is very pricey, but swooping is done when it's on offer anywhere.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Steve Shaw
Date: 19 Oct 23 - 07:32 PM

Well I've always found that Abelour is just a bit dull. Sorry to be a contrarian. I'm biased because I'm a confirmed heavy peat man, so don't listen to me!

Tragically, I've just seen Talisker ten at fifty-two quid in Waitrose. I'm in mourning.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Sol
Date: 19 Oct 23 - 07:17 PM

From my limited experience, I have found Aberlour to be my 2nd favourite. Macallan's being it's only superior.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 24 Oct 23 - 01:16 PM

"..don't listen to me!"
Got it, Steve. I understand...sort of... why folks choose heavy peat. I also understand why some choose very hot peppers, but I don't listen to them either!
   I suppose we 'could' pool our money and share some Talisker.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Bill D
Date: 26 Oct 23 - 05:44 PM

" "There's no bad whisky. There's only very good whisky and excellent whisky" but I can't find it now. "

I have this partial bottle of 8 year old Glen Gyle that might change your mind. It was a gift along with some good stuff.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: gillymor
Date: 22 Oct 23 - 04:43 PM

I'm not much of a Scotch drinker but I have a bottle of Lagavulin 16 sitting on a side table in the living room that serves as a memorial to my late friend and fishing buddy, Don who left it to me, probably as a posthumous effort to convert me to the stuff but I haven't got the heart to open it.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: gillymor
Date: 23 Oct 23 - 07:01 AM

50 ccs 12 yr. old single malt stat!
Seems like there was a time back in the '70's or 80's when rock stars were shooting up booze for fun.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: gillymor
Date: 26 Oct 23 - 04:40 AM

SRS, I'm well familiar with this whisky as it was my old pal's favorite tipple on special occasions. The bottle, which has been the centerpiece of a small shrine for about 6 years is going to a family member after I'm no longer around. He'll be able to appreciate it far more than I ever could.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: gillymor
Date: 26 Oct 23 - 06:52 PM

Bill you reminded me of a bottle of McClelland’s Single Malt Lowland that was gifted me (probably regifted as it was from a teatotaller) and it was so bad that I took one swig of it and stuck it in the kitchen closet where it remained for years until one desperate, boozeless night after running out of beer at a jam session we disposed of it. I see now they're getting $26 A bottle for that truly nasty swill.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Raggytash
Date: 26 Oct 23 - 06:36 PM

Philistine

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Donuel
Date: 23 Oct 23 - 06:35 AM

I was surprised to learn there are people who take Scotch intravenously. They say they can still taste it.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Donuel
Date: 26 Oct 23 - 06:31 PM

A good 20 year old Scotch with a splash of Drambuie is what I prefer.
Some call it a rusty nail.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 22 Oct 23 - 02:46 PM

I think Kendall decided Abelour was his favorite, if I recall the results as we tasted various brands available when this thread started over a decade ago. That's about the only thing I know about that brand.

It always strikes me as unusual that some of you in the UK (or all of you in the UK?) can buy hard liquor in the grocery store. Most of the states I've been in will allow beer and wine sales in grocery venues, but higher proof needs a separate business. Only in Arizona did I see everything for sale in one place (and that was in Walgreens pharmacies - I don't remember if hard stuff is sold in groceries? They may need to be in a separate room because of minors in the store.)

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 25 Oct 23 - 05:09 PM

gillymor, it's a shame not to open it, just to see what they were sharing with you. If you aren't fond of it the contents still might be welcome by occasional guests to your home.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Stilly River Sage
Date: 29 Oct 23 - 12:44 AM

My local newspaper ran this story but it has a paywall, so I think this will serve (but damn, it's a day too late!): Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board Opens Entry For Limited-Release Lottery Featuring Highly Sought Products

10/23/2023

Entry deadline 5:00 PM Friday

Harrisburg – The Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board (PLCB), through its Limited-Release Lottery, will award lottery winners the opportunity to purchase 4,429 bottles of rare whiskeys.

Pennsylvania residents and licensees will have until 5:00 PM Friday, Oct. 27, to opt in to the lottery by visiting the Limited-Release Lottery web page.

This event will feature six products in five lotteries. Participants may opt in to one, several, or all of these lotteries. If a participant wins the right to purchase a bottle in a drawing, they will be removed from subsequent drawings in that lottery. Purchase is limited to one bottle per participant per lottery. Only one entry per household per lottery is allowed; duplicative entries will be disqualified.

Lotteries will be held, in the following order, to award the opportunity to purchase individual bottles:

Lottery 1

Blanton's Gold Straight Bourbon, $119.99 each – 477 bottles for individual consumers, 159 bottles for licensees.
Blanton's Straight From the Barrel Bourbon, $149.99 each – 483 bottles for individual consumers, 160 bottles for licensees.

Lottery 2

Eagle Rare Straight Bourbon 17 Year Old 2022 Release, $109.99 each – 1 bottle for individual consumers.

Lottery 3

Heaven Hill Heritage Collection Straight Corn Whiskey 20 Year Old 2023 Edition, $289.99 each – 150 bottles for individual consumers, 49 bottles for licensees.

Lottery 4

Russell's Reserve Straight Bourbon 13 Year Old Barrel Proof, $149.99 each – 566 bottles for individual consumers, 188 bottles for licensees.

Lottery 5

Stagg Straight Bourbon Barrel Proof, $54.99 each – 1,647 bottles for individual consumers, 549 bottles for licensees.
Both retail entrantsOpens In A New Window and licensee entrantsOpens In A New Window should carefully review the lottery Terms and Conditions, as failure to comply will result in disqualification.

Individual consumers and licensees interested in entering one or more drawings must have an active account with FWGS.comOpens In A New Window with billing information on file. Each participant is encouraged to verify that accurate, up-to-date billing information is associated with his or her customer account, to prevent transaction delays or cancellations. Once the Limited-Release Lottery registration period closes, entrants will not be able to update payment information. If someone is selected as a winner and payment is declined for any reason, the entrant will forfeit their entry and the opportunity to purchase the bottle. Entrants are encouraged to review their accounts to verify that payment/billing information and delivery location are accurate before entering the lottery.

Store delivery of Limited-Release Lottery products is required; failure to identify a valid store for delivery may result in the loss of the right to purchase that product. All lottery item(s) purchased will be delivered to the physical Fine Wine & Good Spirits (FW&GS) location chosen by the entrant at the time of entry. Only individuals submitting eligible entries will be able to pick up their lottery purchases in their designated stores after presenting valid photo ID; bottles will not be released by stores to alternate pickup persons or anyone other than the lottery entrant. Winning entrants who fail to personally appear to pick up their lottery purchase(s) or who otherwise attempt to circumvent these requirements will be disqualified.

In light of attempts by previous lottery winners to illegally resell products obtained through Limited-Release Lotteries, the lottery Terms and Conditions remind residents that the sale of alcoholic beverages without a license is strictly prohibited under Pennsylvania law. When entering a Limited-Release Lottery, a participant will be asked to acknowledge that he or she has read and understands these terms and conditions.

Limited-Release Lotteries are open to Pennsylvania residents and licensees age 21 or older who provide both a verifiable Pennsylvania billing address and a FW&GS store address at registration. Any registrant with a billing address that cannot be verified as a Pennsylvania address will be removed from the lottery. Entries will be vetted for duplicative names, addresses, and other information, and duplicates will be deleted from the lottery pool.

Lottery drawings will be witnessed by an independent third party. Winners will be selected at random by computer program. Participants will be notified by email when the lottery process is complete.

The PLCB regulates the distribution of beverage alcohol in Pennsylvania, operates 600 wine and spirits stores statewide, and licenses 20,000 alcohol producers, retailers, and handlers. The PLCB also works to reduce and prevent dangerous and underage drinking through partnerships with schools, community groups, and licensees. Taxes and store profits – totaling nearly $20.3 billion since the agency's inception – are returned to Pennsylvania's General Fund, which finances Pennsylvania's schools, health and human services programs, law enforcement, and public safety initiatives, among other important public services. The PLCB also provides financial support for the Pennsylvania State Police Bureau of Liquor Control Enforcement, the Department of Drug and Alcohol Programs, other state agencies, and local municipalities across the state. For more information about the PLCB, visit lcb.pa.gov

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Big Al Whittle
Date: 23 Oct 23 - 05:46 PM

I think the Scotch I really loved was Talisker. About four seconds after the first taste, there was this peppery after taste. Quite exquisite.

If God really has it in for me _ I'll spend the first million years of eternity going round apologising for my behaviour chasing that after taste.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Big Al Whittle
Date: 26 Oct 23 - 01:27 PM

Mind you the taste of Talisker was a bit like medical liquid.

I loved that toffee flavour of Whyte and Mackay. Sainsbury's Irish whiskey was light and perfumed, it was my favourite - but they stopped doing it.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Backwoodsman
Date: 22 Oct 23 - 03:49 PM

Back when I still drank alcohol (i.e. Pre-2006) my favourite Malt was Bunnahabheinn, from the NE coast of Islay. Heavy, dark, peaty. Eighteen years since I had a taste. Visited the distillery several times during my sea-going years.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Steve Shaw
Date: 26 Oct 23 - 06:06 AM

“Too much of anything is bad, but too much good whiskey is barely enough.” — Mark Twain


“There is no such thing as bad whiskey. Some whiskeys just happen to be better than others. But a man shouldn’t fool with booze until he’s fifty; then he’s a damn fool if he doesn’t.”

? William Faulkner

All very wise, apart from the spelling. Decades ago, I read a quote somewhere that went something like: "There's no bad whisky. There's only very good whisky and excellent whisky" but I can't find it now.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Steve Shaw
Date: 26 Oct 23 - 06:07 AM

Gosh, my preview version of that post didn't look like that!

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Steve Shaw
Date: 26 Oct 23 - 02:26 PM

Ah yes, I remember that Sainsbury's one. Very nice it was.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Steve Shaw
Date: 26 Oct 23 - 06:22 PM

I don't think we have that one here.

Subject: RE: BS: Question about Scotch
From: Steve Shaw
Date: 26 Oct 23 - 06:59 PM

Philistine indeed. Putting something sweet into a 20-year-old malt is the action of a man who shouldn't be allowed anywhere near a bottle of whisky. He needs to stick to kiddie alcopops.