Poll
Question:
Scotch or Bourbon?
Option 1: Scotch
votes: 34
Option 2: Bourbon
votes: 23
Bourbon for me. Weller's or Booker's with a little water or soda. Although I have not had Scotch beyond the standard 12-year Glenlivit or Glenfidditch.
Interesting fact about Bourbon - unlike Scotch it increases in alcohol content with age so the aged Bourbons like Booker's have alcohol contents of 125 proof or more
I like both, but lately bourbon seems to be nudging ahead. I've been a huge fan of Knob Creek for about five years now, and also like the others in that "small-batch distilleries" group (i.e., Booker's, Baker's and Basil Hayden's). Also like Woodford Reserve and just last week bought a bottle of Eagle Rare, which I hadn't tried, and it's quite delicious, too.
--Bruce
Bourbon too!
Quote from: Harry on July 10, 2007, 07:50:54 AM
Bourbon too!
What do you like drinking, Harry? Any of those above, or perhaps something different?
--Bruce
Quote from: bhodges on July 10, 2007, 07:48:40 AM
I like both, but lately bourbon seems to be nudging ahead. I've been a huge fan of Knob Creek for about five years now, and also like the others in that "small-batch distilleries" group (i.e., Booker's, Baker's and Basil Hayden's). Also like Woodford Reserve and just last week bought a bottle of Eagle Rare, which I hadn't tried, and it's quite delicious, too.
--Bruce
Yes, hmmm, you may send me a box with one bottle of each Bruce, since I can not get them here in Holland.
Much appreciated, you know that! ;D
Quote from: bhodges on July 10, 2007, 07:53:53 AM
What do you like drinking, Harry? Any of those above, or perhaps something different?
--Bruce
When I was in the States my host put a bottle of Jack Daniels single malt in front of me, suggesting to take some wee dram with breakfast, which I did, and was sold, and drunk!
Until now the only decent Bourbon I can get here is Daniels my friend.
Quote from: Harry on July 10, 2007, 07:54:49 AM
Yes, hmmm, you may send me a box with one bottle of each Bruce, since I can not get them here in Holland.
Much appreciated, you know that! ;D
;D Next time I'm in Holland, your wish will be granted. ;D I brought some Knob Creek to a Dutch friend the last time I was there, and in about two days, much of the bottle was gone. (Never mind that the stuff is 100 proof.)
Nothing wrong with Jack Daniels in the least - there's a reason it's popular - but once you try one of these others... ;D But bourbon isn't that popular in the Netherlands, if I recall. You are in more "wine country," right?
--Bruce
John Daniels for breakfast, Harry? I got a loaded .45 here. You got pimples. I'm gonna kill ya, Charlie, because I can't bear the thought of you sellin' out!
Quote from: bhodges on July 10, 2007, 08:06:44 AM
;D Next time I'm in Holland, your wish will be granted. ;D I brought some Knob Creek to a Dutch friend the last time I was there, and in about two days, much of the bottle was gone. (Never mind that the stuff is 100 proof.)
Nothing wrong with Jack Daniels in the least - there's a reason it's popular - but once you try one of these others... ;D But bourbon isn't that popular in the Netherlands, if I recall. You are in more "wine country," right?
--Bruce
True, wine it is, but also a growing popularity for single malts.
And that pleases me no end! ;D
I suppose I like scotch more, but bourbon has its charms (especially a Knob Creek, Woodford Reserve, or Maker's Mark). All things considered, a good single malt scotch or a good small batch (single barrel, better still) bourbon hit the spot. I like the somewhat smokier and occasionally rougher taste of some scotches, though.
All things considered, however, Stoli/Stoli Gold tend to be my drinks.
Irrelevant tangent, but since Scotch is a brand name, Staples calls their home brand "invisible tape."
Quote from: Harry on July 10, 2007, 07:57:00 AM
Until now the only decent Bourbon I can get here is Daniels my friend.
I think technically Jack Daniel's isn't Bourbon which is Kentucky whiskey but JD is Tennessee whiskey. I am not sure though, I find the subject a little confusing.
Quote from: M forever on July 10, 2007, 09:28:53 AM
I think technically Jack Daniel's isn't Bourbon which is Kentucky whiskey but JD is Tennessee whiskey.
Correct.
Sarge
Some years ago, a friend of mine and I made an effort to sample a bottle of every single malt scotch we could find. It was a fantastic chase and I enjoyed it very much. And while I still do enjoy a smoky, peaty finish now and again, nothing beats a sweet bourbon... And a fantastic bottle of bourbon tends to cost much less than a fantastic bottle of scotch, but that may have more to do with my location in the Southern United States. :)
Though I have to admit, I always have a bottle of Dewar's 12 on hand.
Both! Basil Hayden's, Booker's, Blanton's, or Knob Creek for bourbon; too many good choices for scotch, though The Macallan and Highland Park are good starting places.
Quote from: Todd on July 10, 2007, 10:35:33 AM
or Knob Creek for bourbon;
surely someone was having a little too much fun when creating this name.
Quote from: sidoze on July 10, 2007, 10:42:34 AMsurely someone was having a little too much fun when creating this name.
It was named after a creek that ran near the Jim Beam distillery. There is no double entendre intended, I am sure.
Quote from: beclemund on July 10, 2007, 10:53:47 AM
It was named after a creek that ran near the Jim Beam distillery. There is no double entendre intended, I am sure.
Someone was having a little too much fun when naming the creek.
Those were days when there wasn't much to do in the Hickory State but have fun making up names . . . .
Quote from: sidoze on July 10, 2007, 10:55:40 AMSomeone was having a little too much fun when naming the creek.
Haha! True enough. :D
I love both, but I drink more bourbon. It costs less and is more versatile for me.
Allan
Where's the option for Irish?! For goodness' sake! Jameson, or Black Bush when I can afford it. Don't like scotch or bourbon, really...
I like Scotch, Bourbon, and Irish about equally. In general I prefer single-malts (for Scotch and Irish) and small batch producers (for Bourbon). I've tried a few different ones, but I have a few favorites. Knob Creek Bourbon is usually present in my liquor supply, as is Bushmills 10-year single malt Irish whiskey. (I also have a bottle of Bushmills 16-year right now; that is very good, but its availability around here is spotty.) I also try to keep Bowmore 12-year-old single malt Scotch around; that is powerful stuff, but quite tasty. Another Scotch that I usually have in my supply is Glenlivet 18-year. I tried that in a restaurant once and liked it, so I bought a bottle, and when that ran out, I bought another one.
Heather
Quote from: Harry on July 10, 2007, 07:57:00 AM
When I was in the States my host put a bottle of Jack Daniels single malt in front of me, suggesting to take some wee dram with breakfast, which I did, and was sold, and drunk!
Until now the only decent Bourbon I can get here is Daniels my friend.
Quote from: M forever on July 10, 2007, 09:28:53 AM
I think technically Jack Daniel's isn't Bourbon which is Kentucky whiskey but JD is Tennessee whiskey. I am not sure though, I find the subject a little confusing.
Actually, America is not as strict about terroir as France is, and the only stipulation is that Bourbon whiskey must be made in the USA. However, the true Bourbon Whiskey is from Kentucky (usually from one of the counties that originally comprised Bourbon County which was later broken apart), because the Kentucky lime flavored spring water is considered an essential ingredient to the whiskey.
JD is usually termed Tennesee sour mash whskey. It has a very different nose and taste from Bourbon -- far less vanilla and sweetness. Btw, the vanilla is a natural product of the casking. Only brand new charred white oak is used for Bourbon and white oak has naturally occuring vanillin in the wood. After the spirit is decanted from the casks, they can never be used for Boiurbon again. The casks are highly desirable and are sold to the great single malt Scotch whisky distilleries as well as to the Sherry winemakers in Spain.
My particular favorite Bourbons are Rip van Winkle 15 year old Pappy van Winkle Reserve for sipping, and Maker's Mark for mixed drinks.
Quote from: karlhenning on July 10, 2007, 10:55:58 AM
Those were days when there wasn't much to do in the Hickory State but have fun making up names . . . .
Which state is the Hickory state? I know Kentucky is the Bluegrass State and Tennessee is the Volunteer State. I also know that Hickory is a town in North Carolina, Hickory Knob State Park is in South Carolina, and Knob Creek is in Kentucky.
Quote from: The Mad Hatter on July 10, 2007, 06:18:49 PM
Where's the option for Irish?! For goodness' sake! Jameson, or Black Bush when I can afford it. Don't like scotch or bourbon, really...
Yeah!...where's the Irish? They are the most poetic drunks on earth and their whiskey deserves a vote!
Seriously, I'm in love with Irish Whiskey.
Black Bush and
Tullamore Dew are my favorites. I like the single malts too:
The Tyrconnell (pure pot still),
Clontarf,
Connemara.
(http://photos.imageevent.com/sgtrock/ngmg/Irish.jpg)
But I drink whisky too. I've tried over 30 single malts so far. Favorites:
Laphroaig and
Bunnahabhain from Islay.
Highland Park from Orkney,
Aberlour, my favoite Speyside, and
Oban from the Western Highlands. If I had to pick just one it would be Highland Park. Favorite blended Scotch:
Black & White and
Dimple.
(http://photos.imageevent.com/sgtrock/ngmg/Scotch.jpg)
In my youth I drank bourbon almost exclusively but in recent years not as much. For one thing, great bourbons are more difficult to find in Germany than Irish and Scotch...not impossible but you have to go to specialty shops and you pay for the privilege. My favorite bourbon remains Old Grand-Dad. I drink Knob Creek too when I can find it.
(http://photos.imageevent.com/sgtrock/ngmg/Bourbon.jpg)
Sarge
Quote from: Bunny on July 10, 2007, 08:26:04 PM
Which state is the Hickory state? I know Kentucky is the Bluegrass State
A state with only one nickname is unimaginative 8)
Quote from: karlhenning on July 11, 2007, 06:53:52 AM
A state with only one nickname is unimaginative 8)
I think so too. Ohio, my home state, is the Buckeye State and...the Burning River State ;D
Sarge
Ah, Smoke on the Cuyahoga! 8)
Quote from: Sergeant Rock on July 11, 2007, 06:45:34 AMIf I had to pick just one it would be Highland Park.
A good choice. Thank goodness choosing only one isn't required.
Quote from: Todd on July 11, 2007, 07:37:05 AM
Thank goodness choosing only one isn't required.
Amen, brother.
Now if this thread ever gets directly below Sean's "How to sleep with a shy girl" thread we will have a fine candidate for the "convenient alignment" list.
Quote from: karlhenning on July 11, 2007, 06:53:52 AM
A state with only one nickname is unimaginative 8)
What about a state with an incomprehensible nickname, like "The Hoosier State"?
Not even Hoosiers know what that means, and we call the sports teams of one of our major state schools that (IU). Purdue's mascot is the "Boilermaker," a nickname which my college gave them after defeating us badly some time ago, and the name of a lovely cocktail.
Quote from: bwv 1080 on July 11, 2007, 08:34:29 AM
Now if this thread ever gets directly below Sean's "How to sleep with a shy girl" thread we will have a fine candidate for the "convenient alignment" list.
It's easily done - just open all the threads between them on 'Recent Unread Posts', and then reload the page :) (yeah, I'm a cheater)
Sarge, did you line all those up in front of your monitor?! Also, 'most poetic drunks' - classic. Though I think the Russians deserve a shout there as well ;)
Quote from: PSmith08 on July 11, 2007, 08:43:29 AM
What about a state with an incomprehensible nickname, like "The Hoosier State"?
I always thought that was a corruption of The Hosiery State, sort a specialist Garment District . . . .
Quote from: karlhenning on July 11, 2007, 09:03:39 AM
I always thought that was a corruption of The Hosiery State, sort a specialist Garment District . . . .
Only in Bloomington.
I prefer the suggestion that it's an archaic term for a rustic sort. It has an Eric Sloane-feel to it: "Don't make noises while you eat dinner with company, lest you be called a 'hoosier' by more discriminating companions."
Quote from: The Mad Hatter on July 11, 2007, 08:59:59 AM
Sarge, did you line all those up in front of your monitor?!
Yeah. I collect some of the bottles. They line the top of my bookshelves. I just grabbed my favorites and snapped the pics.
Sarge
Quote from: PSmith08 on July 11, 2007, 09:11:11 AM
Only in Bloomington.
I was in Bloomington (IN, if that's what you mean) recently. It was quite nice.
Quote from: M forever on July 11, 2007, 10:10:14 AM
I was in Bloomington (IN, if that's what you mean) recently. It was quite nice.
Indeed it is. My hometown is about twenty minutes south of Bloomington, so I have spent and continue to spend good deal of time there.
Scotch. The few Bourbons I've had, including Makers Mark, have been far too sweet. Give me a peaty Islay (Lagavullin, Caol Ila, Springbanks, Bowmore being particular favorites) any time.
This thread does not deserve to languish in obscurity.
Bourbon is good for drinking in clubs, and I'm never averse to Jack Daniels, but Scotch rules, especially for quiet coversation or meditative evenings at home reading by the fireplace (or what would be the fireplace if I had one).
Where is a "neither" option? I don't even drink alcohol. Never have liked the taste. Give me some sweet tea, ginger ale, or water any day.
In strict compliance with the poll, I voted Bourbon. But to Bourbon I prefer Irish whisky, particularly Bushmill's.
(http://www.beveragewarehouse.com/images/products/3479.jpg)
Tony, you talked me into it ...
Rumor has it that Santa will be delivering a bottle of Springbank 18 this year. The 15 year old is quite fine, so I'm hoping this is good, too. Alas, it's two weeks until delivery.
I've been sampling various new (for me) bourbons over the past year or so, and I must say that Four Roses is not too shabby. I can see keeping a bottle handy for special occasions. Maker's Mark 46 needs some more work, tasting very woody, though it does lack the excess sweetness of regular Maker's Mark. Bulleit just did not work for me.
On the scotch side, Cragganmore has joined Macallan and Highland Park as a go-to single malt.
Quote from: Todd on December 11, 2011, 08:12:39 AM
On the scotch side, Cragganmore has joined Macallan and Highland Park as a go-to single malt.
We have similar taste. They might be my top three too (Macallan 12 and Highland Park 18, definitely...the third spot has more competition but the Cragganmore is terrific).
I finally bought a bottle of Ardbeg. Reminds of me of Laphroaig but weightier and more complex. I would think it not an easy whisky to love but appeals greatly to me.
(http://photos.imageevent.com/sgtrock/dec11/PC110202_600.jpg)
Sarge
Quote from: Todd on December 11, 2011, 08:12:39 AMI must say that Four Roses is not too shabby.
No, it isn't. Unfortunately it's not easy to find in Germany. A local supermarket once stocked it, but I haven't seen it in years now.
Sarge
Quote from: Sergeant Rock on December 11, 2011, 11:21:55 AM
No, it isn't. Unfortunately it's not easy to find in Germany. A local supermarket once stocked it, but I haven't seen it in years now.
Sarge
Funny, Four Roses and Jim Beam are the only Bourbons you can find here, and I quite like the Four Roses. But my vote went to Scotch in the end exactly because better selection I can get locally, Bowmore being current favorite.
Quote from: Drasko on December 11, 2011, 11:45:51 AM
Funny...
That is funny. Hard to figure out global distribution and consumption.
Quote from: Drasko on December 11, 2011, 11:45:51 AM
But my vote went to Scotch in the end exactly because better selection I can get locally, Bowmore being current favorite.
Bowmore is my oldest and best friend's favorite whisky...but then he's a sailor and I think he just likes it for the label ;D
Sarge
Quote from: Drasko on December 11, 2011, 11:45:51 AMBowmore being current favorite.
The 15-year-old bottle is especially attractive:
(http://photos.imageevent.com/sgtrock/dec11/PC110207.jpg)
Sarge
Quote from: Sergeant Rock on December 11, 2011, 12:12:38 PM
The 15-year-old bottle is especially attractive:
Yes they are, but the only one I can find here is 12 y.o., no seagulls. Even specialized shops don't have very wide selection. Though they are getting bit better lately.
Quote from: Sergeant Rock on December 11, 2011, 11:17:47 AMI finally bought a bottle of Ardbeg.
I've been meaning to try Ardbeg for years. Alas, seeing mention of Laphroaig gives me pause. Perhaps next year anyway.
Gin?
Quote from: Todd on December 12, 2011, 06:39:09 AMAlas, seeing mention of Laphroaig gives me pause.
If you don't care for Laphroaig (I do, very much), then yes, you may not like Ardbeg. The iodine/medicinal elements, so pronounced in Laphroaig (Mrs. Rock calls it Band Aid scotch--I just think of it as the sea) is less pronounced in Ardbeg but still quite present, much more so than Bowmore. As I said, it's a more complex whisky so you get more in the nose and taste than just an overwhelming shot of "iodine."
Sarge
Quote from: Ataraxia on December 12, 2011, 12:06:16 PM
Gin?
Yup. You win.
(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4058/4324159305_59676a5bd6.jpg)
I was waiting for that 5 of Diamonds.
Quote from: Ataraxia on December 12, 2011, 12:06:16 PMGin?
It has its place. Mostly in a Tom Collins or Gin & Tonic. Maybe a Churchill Martini. Methinks a separate thread would almost be warranted.
Talisker: a light, crisp whisky; just what you need when you're full of hefty Xmas food and brandy. I love a snifter of bourbon, but you can't beat a proper Scottish whisky.
(http://s7v1.scene7.com/is/image/JohnLewis/230406397?$product$)
Quote from: MDL on December 12, 2011, 03:05:39 PM
Talisker: a light, crisp whisky; just what you need when you're full of hefty Xmas food and brandy. I love a snifter of bourbon, but you can't beat a proper Scottish whisky.
Talisker is a great whisky but I wouldn't call it light. Full-bodied, almost syrupy has been my experience with the 10-year-old.
Sarge
Quote from: Sergeant Rock on December 12, 2011, 11:22:37 PM
Talisker is a great whisky but I wouldn't call it light. Full-bodied, almost syrupy has been my experience with the 10-year-old.
Sarge
Syrupy? I broke open the Xmas Talisker last night and thought it tasted very clean; not claggy or oily. But I only drink whisky at this time of year, so I'm a real novice. I'm probably comparing my memories of the cheap stuff we used to drink years ago.
Quote from: MDL on December 14, 2011, 02:31:50 AM
Syrupy?
Syrupy relative to other single malts, yes. It's been a while since I drank Talisker 10 but that's what I recall. Did you have the 8? That may have a different body.
Sarge
Interesting to observe the way region affects the answers here. The US surely has the widest range of bourbons available to the general consumer, whereas in an Australian bottle shop (as we call them) there are half a dozen brands at the most, next to a wide tall shelf of whiskey. Also, the US produces its own whiskeys, whereas in Australia it's all imported - very little of it from America.
Lately I've been drinking a lot of John Samson, which is an inexpensive but fine middle of the road scotch. Not too smokey, the way I like it (one brand was so smokey, I kept waking up during the night thinking the house was on fire). I cut it with water, about half and half. It's a knack to dilute whisky so it doesn't burn the tongue, but still has bite and fullness of flavour.
Quote from: MDL on December 14, 2011, 02:31:50 AM
Syrupy? I broke open the Xmas Talisker last night and thought it tasted very clean; not claggy or oily.
Your experience with the Talisker intrigued me so I bought a bottle a few days ago.
(http://photos.imageevent.com/sgtrock/gm2/PC183036_crop.jpg)
In fact, it tastes different than I recall (not nearly so individual, syrupy and...weird!). Faulty memory? I don't know...but in Michael Jackson's
Malt Whisky Companion he also describes it as syrupy. So apparently I'm not totally "off." ;D Relative to many other single malts I still think that description holds but it doesn't seem to be as pronounced as once upon a time. (Has Talisker changed since Jackson's and my last taste?)
Anyway, I understand now why you're not getting my description. One thing this reacquaintance has proven though: Talisker is one of the great single malts! I'm having trouble keeping my consumption in check :D
Sarge
Quote from: Sergeant Rock on December 18, 2011, 10:54:34 AMMichael Jackson's Malt Whisky Companion
Mandatory reading, as far as I am concerned. A friend of mine brought me a copy back from Scotland in the 90s, and I have referred to it for years.
Quote from: Todd on December 18, 2011, 12:17:31 PM
Mandatory reading, as far as I am concerned.
If only for the pronunciation guide ;D
Seriously, it's invaluable to the single malt lover.
Sarge
(http://whiskeygoldmine.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/Makers_Mark_Kentucky_Straight_Bourbon_Whiskey.jpg)
Thinking about the above for my brother-in-law.
or
some Johnny Walker Gold.
Kind of cool:
http://topten.whatitcosts.com/top-ten-liquors-pg3.htm
Quote from: Bogey on December 18, 2011, 03:12:27 PM
....or some Johnny Walker Gold.
Don't be cheap, Bill. Give him Johnnie Walker Blue (http://www.wineglobe.com/12616.html) ;D
Sarge
(* chortle *)
Quote from: Sergeant Rock on December 18, 2011, 10:54:34 AM
)
One thing this reacquaintance has proven though: Talisker is one of the great single malts! I'm having trouble keeping my consumption in check :D
Sarge
Yeah, I'm halfway through the bottle already. Not sure if that one's going to make it to Christmas, let alone the New Year.
Quote from: Sergeant Rock on December 19, 2011, 05:41:09 AM
Don't be cheap, Bill. Give him Johnnie Walker Blue (http://www.wineglobe.com/12616.html) ;D
Sarge
Well, there is this:
http://www.riversidewinemerchants.com/r/products/johnnie-walker-the-collection-gift-sampler?utm_source=Google&utm_medium=Feed 8)
Quote from: Bogey on December 19, 2011, 05:59:51 AM
Well, there is this:
http://www.riversidewinemerchants.com/r/products/johnnie-walker-the-collection-gift-sampler?utm_source=Google&utm_medium=Feed 8)
That's pretty cool. I wouldn't mind getting that myself 8)
Sarge
Ended up getting this for my brother-in-law:
http://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://rpmedia.ask.com/ts%3Fu%3D/wikipedia/en/thumb/f/f6/Willett.jpg/250px-Willett.jpg&imgrefurl=http://uk.ask.com/wiki/Willett_Pot_Still_Reserve&usg=__Tt-otTVzhrH7-DcE7yCdBJucm7I=&h=3181&w=2134&sz=857&hl=en&start=41&zoom=1&tbnid=P8FWyVI0TiV0GM:&tbnh=150&tbnw=101&ei=8VvxTvb2L8vmggf8iP2UAg&prev=/search%3Fq%3Dwillett%2Bkentucky%26start%3D21%26hl%3Den%26safe%3Dactive%26sa%3DN%26rls%3Dcom.microsoft:*%26rlz%3D1I7ADFA_enUS439%26tbm%3Disch%26prmd%3Divns&itbs=1
(http://3.bp.blogspot.com/--o-KCWpurG0/TVeMOn7LYsI/AAAAAAAAANg/JCnZxz54lzQ/s400/Springbank%2B18)
I've enjoyed Springbank 18 a couple times now. Using Michael Jackson type descriptions, I'd have to say it's lightly smoky, a bit oily in texture, medium in body, and a bit salty. It's also got a spicy aftertaste that's unique among single malts I've had. Not the best single malt I've had, but it's up there. Given it's price, I think I shall enjoy it in very small quantities only to make it last a while.
Quote from: Todd on January 07, 2012, 02:22:49 PM
I've enjoyed Springbank 18 a couple times now.
Thanks for the review. I'll look out for it. Saw the 16-year-old Lagavulin in a store today. Almost picked it up...perhaps next week. Your Springbank comments make me thirst for something really expensive :D
Sarge
Quote from: Sergeant Rock on January 07, 2012, 02:36:03 PM
Saw the 16-year-old Lagavulin in a store today.
I'm down to the last third of a bottle of this bought mid December. More refined and less smoky than their 12 years, which I really prefer. I like my malts pretty rough (in a good sense), with the Lagavullin 12 year a perennial favorite. Before that I finished an 8 year Bruicladdich in November, and a 17 year Port Ellen in October (ridiculously expensive though, bought in a liqueur store in Normandy summer of 2010). Have just started on a 12 year Caol Ila. I'm an Islay guy.....
Quote from: The new erato on January 08, 2012, 12:31:38 AMI'm an Islay guy.....
I like all the island malts especially Skye's Talisker and Orkney's Highland Park. But yeah, the Islay malts are special. My favorites: Laphroaig 10, Ardbeg 10 and Bunnahabhain 12 (despite the fact it doesn't have an Islay character. But it is distinctive and quite good).
Sarge
Quote from: Sergeant Rock on January 09, 2012, 06:36:22 AM
I like all the island malts especially Skye's Talisker and Orkney's Highland Park. But yeah, the Islay malts are special. My favorites: Laphroaig 10, Ardbeg 10 and Bunnahabhain 12 (despite the fact it doesn't have an Islay character. But it is distinctive and quite good).
Sarge
The Islay malts have a deep 'peaty' character which is unrivalled - Laphroaig very much so - when you swallow an Islay Malt, you are swallowing the taste of Scotland. Unfortunately, I have not had a glass of whisky for over 12 years...but I had to get to know Whiskys when I worked at Gleneagles, and in The Duke of Gordon Hotel up in Kingussie, the Highlands. Not knowing about what I was serving could have lead to claymores being thrust into my belly.
Something one is always keen to avoid.
Thread duty:
Chappie near the Old State House put me onto this (http://www.1792bourbon.com/), and I like it very well.
Quote from: karlhenning on January 09, 2012, 07:14:23 AMChappie near the Old State House put me onto this (http://www.1792bourbon.com/), and I like it very well.[/font]
I've got a bottle of that at home right now. It is quite good.
Here's an interesting whisky site, with histories and comparisons. (http://whisky-shop-online.webeden.co.uk/#)
I didn't know this about Laphroaig (one of my favorites):
"Laphroaig was allowed in to the USA as a "medicinal spirit" during prohibition. Ian Hunter, the owner at the time, gave some US officials some samples of his malt whisky and the iodine medicinal flavours won them over."
;D :D ;D
As I said before, Mrs. Rock compares it to drinking a Band-Aid ;D I love it though.
Sarge
A sad evening here at Chez Sarge. The Glenmorangie, The Quinta Ruban (matured in port casks) is gone. It lived well if all too briefly :'(
The final dram, in a Riedel single malt glass:
(http://photos.imageevent.com/sgtrock/dec11/P1100231.jpg)
Sarge
Quote from: Sergeant Rock on January 10, 2012, 12:13:24 PMThe Glenmorangie, The Quinta Ruban (matured in port casks) is gone.
My condolences.
Quote from: Todd on January 10, 2012, 12:18:09 PM
My condolences.
I, and the Sixteen Men of Tain, thank you.
Sarge
Ma condolenshes tchoo ****hic****
Yea, joining Todd and Scotch John: hope you recover well from that loss, Sarge!
I'll close this day with another bière municipal.
(http://i40.tinypic.com/1z1zs5x.jpg)
Quote from: Marc on January 10, 2012, 01:12:21 PM
Yea, joining Todd and Scotch John: hope you recover well from that loss, Sarge!
I have the faithful's sincere belief, and hope, Marc. I sense a miraculous resurrection, a second coming of the Glenmorangie...possibly tomorrow...possibly at my local supermarket!
Sarge
Resurrection at a supermarket . . . zounds!
(http://www.scotlandstephenson.com/imagesforsql/ri1whiskey.jpg)
Neither a scotch nor bourbon, but pretty tasty. Smooth and striking, a very bourbonesque whiskey without bourbon sweetness.
Quote from: karlhenning on January 11, 2012, 04:01:50 AM
Resurrection at a supermarket . . . zounds!
It didn't quite work out the way I wanted (do resurrections ever? ;D ). The supermarket was out of the Quinta Ruban so I bought the original Glenmorangie, not noticing the extra sticker on the box. When I opened it, I was surprised to find a tiny bottle of Quinta Ruban included 8)
(http://photos.imageevent.com/sgtrock/dec11/P1153047_crop.jpg)
(http://photos.imageevent.com/sgtrock/dec11/P1153045_labels.jpg)
Sarge
Quote from: Todd on January 15, 2012, 08:30:30 AM
(http://www.scotlandstephenson.com/imagesforsql/ri1whiskey.jpg)
Neither a scotch nor bourbon, but pretty tasty. Smooth and striking, a very bourbonesque whiskey without bourbon sweetness.
That's a rye? I've never had a rye.
Sarge
Quote from: Sergeant Rock on January 15, 2012, 08:39:57 AMThat's a rye?
Yes. It's got much of the virtue of bourbon, but little sweetness and a little more spice. On the rocks, it's almost too smooth and easy to drink.
My favorites are bourbons, but it's easier for me to find a bad bourbon than a bad scotch so I voted for scotch.
Quote from: Todd on December 11, 2011, 08:12:39 AM
I've been sampling various new (for me) bourbons over the past year or so, and I must say that Four Roses is not too shabby
Quote from: Sergeant Rock on December 11, 2011, 11:21:55 AM
No, it isn't. Unfortunately it's not easy to find in Germany. A local supermarket once stocked it, but I haven't seen it in years now.
Quote from: Drasko on December 11, 2011, 11:45:51 AM
Funny, Four Roses and Jim Beam are the only Bourbons you can find here, and I quite like the Four Roses
While food shopping yesterday, we decided to buy fresh mint leaves and bourbon to make juleps. I grabbed a bottle of Maker's Mark and was about to put it in the cart when Mrs. Rock noticed the Four Roses, once more in stock! They also had, for the first time, Isle of Jura, all four expressions. I bought the most expensive, the
Jura Prophecy, €49, because it claims to be "profoundly peated." ;D 8)
(http://photos.imageevent.com/sgtrock/apr12/P6170279_600.jpg)
Sarge
Quote from: Sergeant Rock on June 17, 2012, 07:36:21 AM
I bought the most expensive, the Jura Prophecy, €49, because it claims to be "profoundly peated." ;D 8)
If you drink it, Sarge, and then drink it
again, would it be 'profoundly
re-peated'?
Quote from: Elgarian on June 17, 2012, 07:53:08 AM
If you drink it, Sarge, and then drink it again, would it be 'profoundly re-peated'?
;D :D ;D Thanks for the great post...as Best of Thread, it wins the prize...a clump of original Jura peat.
Sarge
Quote from: Sergeant Rock on January 10, 2012, 12:21:12 PM
... the Sixteen Men of Tain ....
I remember one cold wet windy day, driving up the east coast of Scotland, we pulled in at the Glenmorangie distillery just outside the town of Tain. The rain was beating down so hard that we got drenched and chilled in the mere minute or two it took us to get indoors.
Those were the days before the current re-vamping of the facilities that made it a much more impersonal place to visit. We shook all the water off ourselves and were greeted by an old-ish lady who looked at us with sympathy and inquired 'Would ye like a wee dram?' Well, we would, we said gratefully. She settled us in a warm spot in front of a video recording explaining the story of the sixteen men of Tain, and how 10 years is actually the
best time of maturing for the standard Glenmorangie (even though they do a 15 year old version); and the dram warmed us to our very bones, and made us Glenmorangie-fans for life.
We've spent years pleasantly trying to decide whether the port, sherry, or Madeira casks yield the best result, and happily confess that we'll never resolve the issue. In the meantime, the standard Glenmorangie remains our favourite most affordable dram. Here's to the Sixteen Men of Tain. Cheers.
Quote from: Elgarian on June 17, 2012, 08:02:50 AM
I remember one cold wet windy day, driving up the east coast of Scotland, we pulled in at the Glenmorangie distillery just outside the town of Tain....and were greeted by an old-ish lady who looked at us with sympathy and inquired 'Would ye like a wee dram?'
So it's actually 16 men and one old lady? She should demand equal prominence on the label!
Lovely story, Alan. I share your love of Glenmorangie. It's my favorite non-island whisky.
Sarge
Quote from: Sergeant Rock on June 17, 2012, 08:15:31 AM
So it's actually 16 men and one old lady? She should demand equal prominence on the label!
If they always counted them after a few drams, there would always tend to be mistakes - and even misidentifications!
McCheers.
The only distillery I've ever visited was the one just down the road from Balmoral (I don't remember the name at the moment--I do remember that at one point Queen Victoria paid them a quick visit and ever since they've been allowed to call one of their products "Royal"). Having done the standard distillery tour, we were treated to a "wee dram" as promised in the brochure (we were on a Globus package tour*). I'm not sure why they call it 'wee'--it was at least three or four shots that filled a medium sized glass--and remember wondering aloud what size a "non-wee" dram must be if a 'wee" dram was that big....
*This involved hitting as many of the big name tourist spots in Scotland and England as can be conveniently down in 11 days or so. The first day we spent in London, the next we left London, stopped at Hampton Court (the maze was closed), then Stonehenge, and ended up at Exeter for the night, then to Bath via Plymouth and Glastonbury, and so on for the rest of the tour....The pace of this always seems to astonish British folks when I describe it, although in US terms the distances are relatively small: the north south axis of my home state, Florida, is about equal to the distance between the southern coast of England and the northernmost tip of mainland Scotland.
Quote from: Jeffrey Smith on June 17, 2012, 06:38:26 PM
The first day we spent in London, the next we left London, stopped at Hampton Court (the maze was closed), then Stonehenge, and ended up at Exeter for the night, then to Bath via Plymouth and Glastonbury, and so on for the rest of the tour....The pace of this always seems to astonish British folks when I describe it, although in US terms the distances are relatively small: the north south axis of my home state, Florida, is about equal to the distance between the southern coast of England and the northernmost tip of mainland Scotland.
Perhaps it's not the pace of travelling in terms of distance that seems astonishing, Jeffrey, but the rapid succession of varieties of experience and the difficulty of taking them in. When I go to Bath, for instance, I need at least a couple of days to settle in, slow down, and soak up the multiple histories associated with the place; steep myself in tea in the Pump Room; linger in Abbey Green; wander around the Circus remembering Gainsborough had walked the same pavement. Maybe this slow osmosis is part of our national character!
But back to distilleries. I remember one trip to Scotland that was taken under a dark cloud. A lot had gone wrong during the preceding weeks; we were worn out; but we'd planned the trip and we went, even though we found ourselves driving around mentally, spiritually, and physically exhausted. None of the landscapes that usually wowed us were impinging on us at all, and we were thoroughly miserable.
In this mood we happened to drive past the Dalwhinnie distillery, and we wondered about stopping to visit, and neither of us could be bothered and we drove on. A mile down the road I said 'Stop! This is crazy. We've come hundreds of miles to be here - let's go and visit it anyway even though we know we're too tired to get anything from the experience.' So we did. And during the next hour everything changed. It was the turning point of the whole holiday. We bought a bottle of Dalwhinnie and one of their whisky glasses. The whisky isn't a very interesting one, really, and the glass not particularly attractive, but they rescued us from ourselves, and I've regarded them with gratitude ever since.
Quote from: Jeffrey Smith on June 17, 2012, 06:38:26 PM
The only distillery I've ever visited was the one just down the road from Balmoral (I don't remember the name at the moment--I do remember that at one point Queen Victoria paid them a quick visit and ever since they've been allowed to call one of their products "Royal").
The wee dram you had was Royal Lochnagar. A whisky I really loved but it hasn't been available in my locale in many, many years (I don't even know if the distillery is still operational). In his
Malt Whisky Companion Michael Jackson rated it quite highly. Of the royal connection, Jackson says, "
Queen Victoria is reputed to have enjoyed this malt, and to have used it to lace her claret, thereby ruining two of the world's greatest drinks." ;D
A bottle from my collection:
(http://photos.imageevent.com/sgtrock/apr12/royallochnagarlabel.jpg)
(http://photos.imageevent.com/sgtrock/apr12/royallochnagar.jpg)
Sarge
Quote from: Elgarian on June 17, 2012, 09:34:22 PM
Perhaps it's not the pace of travelling in terms of distance that seems astonishing, Jeffrey, but the rapid succession of varieties of experience and the difficulty of taking them in.
If it's Tuesday, this must be Bath ;D
Sarge
Quote from: Sergeant Rock on June 18, 2012, 03:13:44 AM
If it's Tuesday, this must be Bath ;D
Sarge
Better than: If it's Tuesday, take a bath . . . .Quote from: Elgarian on June 17, 2012, 09:34:22 PM
Perhaps it's not the pace of travelling in terms of distance that seems astonishing, Jeffrey, but the rapid succession of varieties of experience and the difficulty of taking them in. When I go to Bath, for instance, I need at least a couple of days to settle in, slow down, and soak up the multiple histories associated with the place; steep myself in tea in the Pump Room; linger in Abbey Green; wander around the Circus remembering Gainsborough had walked the same pavement. Maybe this slow osmosis is part of our national character!
But back to distilleries. I remember one trip to Scotland that was taken under a dark cloud. A lot had gone wrong during the preceding weeks; we were worn out; but we'd planned the trip and we went, even though we found ourselves driving around mentally, spiritually, and physically exhausted. None of the landscapes that usually wowed us were impinging on us at all, and we were thoroughly miserable.
In this mood we happened to drive past the Dalwhinnie distillery, and we wondered about stopping to visit, and neither of us could be bothered and we drove on. A mile down the road I said 'Stop! This is crazy. We've come hundreds of miles to be here - let's go and visit it anyway even though we know we're too tired to get anything from the experience.' So we did. And during the next hour everything changed. It was the turning point of the whole holiday. We bought a bottle of Dalwhinnie and one of their whisky glasses. The whisky isn't a very interesting one, really, and the glass not particularly attractive, but they rescued us from ourselves, and I've regarded them with gratitude ever since.
A lovely story, Alan.
Quote from: Sergeant Rock on June 18, 2012, 02:37:18 AM
The wee dram you had was Royal Lochnagar. A whisky I really loved but it hasn't been available in my locale in many, many years (I don't even know if the distillery is still operational). In his Malt Whisky Companion Michael Jackson rated it quite highly. Of the royal connection, Jackson says, "Queen Victoria is reputed to have enjoyed this malt, and to have used it to lace her claret, thereby ruining two of the world's greatest drinks." ;D
A bottle from my collection:
(http://photos.imageevent.com/sgtrock/apr12/royallochnagarlabel.jpg)
(http://photos.imageevent.com/sgtrock/apr12/royallochnagar.jpg)
Sarge
Thanks!
It's still active and available, although Wikipedia's article says most of what it produces is used for Johnnie Walker's black and blue label blends. But Google shows a price for the 12 yo of $38US and $225US for the "select reserve".
The entry on Whiskeynet
http://www.scotchwhisky.net/distilleries/royal_lochnagar.htm
(http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/32/Rebel_Yell.JPG/250px-Rebel_Yell.JPG)
IMO the best inexpensive bourbon around, plus its a cool bottle. Used to be Keith Richards favorite and Billy Idol was drinking the stuff with the Stones when he got the inspiration for the song
I don't think anyone's mentioned my very favourite whisky yet: Aberlour A'Bunadh. The bog-standard Aberlour (a long way down my list) gives absolutely no hint of what this magnificent beast can offer. Each sip is not just a journey, but a journey through rich landscapes, lush and golden. It's a good deal more expensive than our usual affordable staples (Glenmorangie, Bowmore, Ardbeg - this last not so affordable these days); but oh boy. When visitors taste it for the first time, we can see them transformed into A'Bunadh-obsessives within seconds. It makes all our favourite malts seem like second-best, so we tend only to open the bottle on special occasions. And of course only closest family members and friends are ever told that we have some!
(http://img.thewhiskyexchange.com/270/ablob.non15.jpg)
(http://www.bourbonblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/02/W_H_Harrison_Indiana_Straight_Bourbon.jpg)
Mediocre Bourbon Alert
There's an ever expanding variety of small batch bourbon and ryes around these parts, and I decided to try one named after the shortest serving president. It's an Indiana bourbon (yes, I know, that makes little sense), and it's just not very good. It's lacking in sweetness compared to other bourbons, which is a plus, but it lacks spice, and it has a rough flavor, with a peculiar, almost charcoal-like aftertaste. I believe they use new or at least newer casks to age the whiskey, so maybe that accounts for part of the flavor. It didn't even work well in an Old Fashioned. Maybe I got a bad batch, who knows, but this isn't on my buy-again list.
Quote from: Elgarian on June 20, 2012, 07:29:46 AM
I don't think anyone's mentioned my very favourite whisky yet: Aberlour A'Bunadh. The bog-standard Aberlour (a long way down my list) gives absolutely no hint of what this magnificent beast can offer.
I used to drink the "bog-standard" Aberlour quite a bit...and liked it. It was available for a decent price in France at the Cora supermarché. We haven't shopped there in recent years, though, and have not found a German distributor. I'd like to try the Aberlour A'Bunadh you recommend. Perhaps available online.
Sarge
Quote from: Elgarian on June 17, 2012, 09:34:22 PM
Perhaps it's not the pace of travelling in terms of distance that seems astonishing, Jeffrey, but the rapid succession of varieties of experience and the difficulty of taking them in. When I go to Bath, for instance, I need at least a couple of days to settle in, slow down, and soak up the multiple histories associated with the place; steep myself in tea in the Pump Room; linger in Abbey Green; wander around the Circus remembering Gainsborough had walked the same pavement. Maybe this slow osmosis is part of our national character!
This sort of vacation sounds very attractive. It is so rare that I feel I can take time off that the vacation turns into a race to experience as much as possible in the short time allotted.
Quote from: Elgarian on June 20, 2012, 07:29:46 AM
I don't think anyone's mentioned my very favourite whisky yet: Aberlour A'Bunadh. The bog-standard Aberlour (a long way down my list) gives absolutely no hint of what this magnificent beast can offer. Each sip is not just a journey, but a journey through rich landscapes, lush and golden. It's a good deal more expensive than our usual affordable staples (Glenmorangie, Bowmore, Ardbeg - this last not so affordable these days); but oh boy. When visitors taste it for the first time, we can see them transformed into A'Bunadh-obsessives within seconds. It makes all our favourite malts seem like second-best, so we tend only to open the bottle on special occasions. And of course only closest family members and friends are ever told that we have some!
(http://img.thewhiskyexchange.com/270/ablob.non15.jpg)
I bought a bottle of this at my local retailer, having remembered what you wrote above. It is indeed more expensive than any other bottle I've purchased--$69.99 US--but I had a 10 percent off coupon from their loyalty rewards program to lessen the pain. Jewish tradition says one should drink or eat something new (or at least, something one hasn't had in the last 30 days) on both days of Rosh Hashanah, so I'm going to practice kavod ha mitzvah (honoring the mitzvah with extra effort) and open the bottle then. Will report my impressions after the holy day.
Quote from: Jeffrey Smith on September 13, 2012, 05:08:21 PM
I'm going to practice kavod ha mitzvah (honoring the mitzvah with extra effort) and open the bottle then. Will report my impressions after the holy day.
This is such an interesting thing to say, it makes me think that on a HOLY day you will solemnly open your Whisky and get stuck into it
(to aid in the achievemnt of kavod ha mitzvah!) No wonder you will report your impressions AFTER the Holy day. ;D ;D
I hope I have not offended you religiously, your sentences there did make me have visions of that. 0:)
Quote from: Scots John on September 14, 2012, 08:02:34 AM
This is such an interesting thing to say, it makes me think that on a HOLY day you will solemnly open your Whisky and get stuck into it (to aid in the achievemnt of kavod ha mitzvah!) No wonder you will report your impressions AFTER the Holy day. ;D ;D
I hope I have not offended you religiously, your sentences there did make me have visions of that. 0:)
LOL! No! You did give me a good laugh, for which I thank you.
The reason I will be reporting after the holy day is simply that I will be offline for those two days, so perforce I won't be posting until they're over. The Whisky is at best supplemental to that.
Reporting in.
Had two (shot)glasses of the Aberlour A'bunadh, and discovered Elgarian was quite on target, although I now notice he was not free with any specific adjectives in his praise. So I'll describe it (tentatively) as robust, dark honey tones, with a slightly above average kick to it. Certainly one to be reserved for special occasions and only for the best of friends, and this will not be the last bottle of A'bunadh I will be buying.
BTW--Elgarian seems to have been off for a week and a half now. Anyone heard form him offline?
Apparently, this isn't wine:
Got this Wednesday. Only took a wee sip, but it's good stuff, and very dangerously drinkable for the ABV. (Un-chillfiltered @ 46.3%.)
(http://www.tobermorymalt.com/imgs/0000/2354/new-10.jpg)
Quote from: North Star on September 21, 2012, 08:56:18 AM
Apparently, this isn't wine:
Got this Wednesday. Only took a wee sip, but it's good stuff, and very dangerously drinkable for the ABV. (Un-chillfiltered @ 46.3%.)
(http://www.tobermorymalt.com/imgs/0000/2354/new-10.jpg)
This looks really interesting, and rare. (The distillery keeps closing down and reopening.) Jackson says the expressions he's tried are excellent examples of the island style: intensely peaty and "seaweedy." If the 10-year-old is representative, it sounds like my kind of single malt.
Sarge
Quote from: Sergeant Rock on September 21, 2012, 11:34:36 AM
This looks really interesting, and rare. (The distillery keeps closing down and reopening.) Jackson says the expressions he's tried are excellent examples of the island style: intensely peaty and "seaweedy." If the 10-year-old is representative, it sounds like my kind of single malt.
Sarge
That doesn't sound like it at all, I'm afraid. It's quite a light one, certainly not peaty. This review gets it pretty much right:
http://www.whiskyintelligence.com/2010/11/tobermory-10yo-463-ob-2010-scotch-whisky-tasting-note/
Quote from: North Star on September 21, 2012, 08:56:18 AM
Apparently, this isn't wine:
Got this Wednesday. Only took a wee sip, but it's good stuff, and very dangerously drinkable for the ABV. (Un-chillfiltered @ 46.3%.)
(http://www.tobermorymalt.com/imgs/0000/2354/new-10.jpg)
This is quite summery stuff, I might have to drink it fast before it's too late in the autumn ;D
(http://img.thewhiskyexchange.com/270/brbon_row1.jpg)
Got some Rowan's Creek bourbon over the weekend. Very rich, with just the right amount of sweetness (ie, not too much). Incredibly smooth for a 100+ proof whiskey - more so than even Knob Creek. I drank it straight and on the rocks only. A top notch bourbon, though a bit spendy at $50 for a bottle around these parts.
(http://scotchhounds.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/springbank12yo_cask_strength.jpg)
For the third Christmas in a row, my wife bought me a bottle of Springbank. This time around it was the cask strength. I've been slowly working my way through it. My prior experience with cask strength scotches has been so-so, but not here: it is most delicious. Very smooth and easy to drink, even given its strength. It's peppery and sharp, quite peaty (but not Islay malt peaty), and has an oily texture. Most enjoyable, if a bit pricey.
I kinda want to try some. (http://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/style/making-whiskey-at-george-washingtons-distillery/2013/03/27/3f6dc1b0-9189-11e2-9cfd-36d6c9b5d7ad_story.html?hpid=z4)
I wish there had been a third choice (Canadian Rye Whisky). ;D
In which case, Crown Royal is a delight. Although I rarely drink, nowadays.
(https://dfassadmin.com/images/Page93_LiquorAndTobacco_CrownRoyal_LimitedEdition_800x800.jpg)
Quote from: ChamberNut on March 27, 2013, 05:47:41 PM
I wish there had been a third choice (Canadian Rye Whisky). ;D
In which case, Crown Royal is a delight. Although I rarely drink, nowadays.
(https://dfassadmin.com/images/Page93_LiquorAndTobacco_CrownRoyal_LimitedEdition_800x800.jpg)
I've found Canadian to be much to my taste--more than bourbon, at least. Especially some small batch/select reserve offerings. Unfortunately, I don't have any specific names to offer because I don't have any bottles handy and can't remember the precise names. Whisky, like beer, is considered
chametz (leavened grain products)and therefore has to be completely drunk or given away or at least inaccessible and "purchased" by a non-Jew before the start of Passover.
Quote from: Elgarian on July 26, 2013, 04:48:10 AM
Aberlour a'bunadh. Even more exciting than a new gate in Texas.
We'll see about that ;D I finally acquired a bottle. Arrived in the mail from a dealer who sells through Amazon. What nobody mentioned (in the previous discussions about this whisky) is the alcohol level. Cask strength. 60.2%! Stronger than my Old Grand Dad 114.
(http://photos.imageevent.com/sgtrock/foodandwine/P7301920_800.jpg)
(http://photos.imageevent.com/sgtrock/foodandwine/P7301920_label.jpg)
Sarge
Quote from: Sergeant Rock on July 30, 2013, 01:45:06 AM
What nobody mentioned (in the previous discussions about this whisky) is the alcohol level. Cask strength. 60.2%! Sarge
Cask strength whiskies are the real deal IMO. Not only are they purer (or rather less manipulated) and more aromatic (with a drop of water); they also keep my wife away from the bottle. What's not to like?
Quote from: The new erato on July 30, 2013, 01:55:23 AMCask strength whiskies...they also keep my wife away from the bottle. What's not to like?
:D ;D :D
I'm not sure that will deter Mrs. Rock...but I can hope.
Sarge
Quote from: Sergeant Rock on July 30, 2013, 01:45:06 AM
We'll see about that ;D I finally acquired a bottle. Arrived in the mail from a dealer who sells through Amazon. What nobody mentioned (in the previous discussions about this whisky) is the alcohol level. Cask strength. 60.2%! Stronger than my Old Grand Dad 114.
(http://photos.imageevent.com/sgtrock/foodandwine/P7301920_label.jpg)
Sarge
Yes, maybe I should have mentioned that, Sarge! But on the other hand ... there's such a sense of
rightness about the whole experience of a dram of a'bunadh that somehow, I feel that to single out the strength is kind of misleading. It's not great because it's strong; it's great because it offers a single wonderful integrated experience.
(For example, there's a 60% cask strength version of Edradour which, for me, doesn't work at all well compared with the standard Edradour. The strength seems to fight against the delicate nutty caramel flavour of the whisky, and I end up with the feeling of contest rather than integration.)
Disharmony, rather than concerto
Chap at the office gave us a bot of twelve-year-old Macallan. Will it be all right, do you think?
Quote from: karlhenning on December 23, 2013, 04:06:29 AM
Chap at the office gave us a bot of twelve-year-old Macallan. Will it be all right, do you think?
A light, feminine whisky, perfect for moments when an Islay or Speyside won't do. The whisky's alright, you won't be if you drain it.
Well, I'm in no hurry.
Thanks!
Well, I quite like the Macallan 12.
Quote from: karlhenning on January 01, 2014, 03:23:30 PM
Well, I quite like the Macallan 12.
Yes, it is a good single malt, and quite popular in the US, I believe. Trivia fact: it's Jeff's drink (http://iscotch.ca/macallan-12y-sherry-oak-with-the-girl/) (in the sitcom
Community).
Sarge
Quote from: Sergeant Rock on January 02, 2014, 06:13:58 AM
Yes, it is a good single malt, and quite popular in the US, I believe. Trivia fact: it's Jeff's drink (http://iscotch.ca/macallan-12y-sherry-oak-with-the-girl/) (in the sitcom Community).
Didnt know that . . . in fact, I knew nothing of that sitcom until visiting with my broter and sis-in-law two months ago :)
Indeed, Macallan is popular enough or prestigious enough to be almost the only distillery singled out for a warning about not being kosher* on the Orthodox Union sites which discuss the kosher status of whisky.
It's also the whisky which Katherine Kurtz chose to repeatedly single out for favorable mention in the Adept series, and that's where I first heard of it. (Although she may have not been referring to the 12 y.o.)
Kosher or non-kosher, I found it to be a very agreeable potation.
*Not kosher because all Macallan whiskies are aged in vats that previously held non-kosher wine. In Orthodox eyes, this results in a blanket disqualification of any whisky aged in wine barrels; Conservative rabbis argue that time between holding wine and holding whisky, and the manner in which distilleries treat the barrels before putting the whisky in, render the previous contents irrelevant and the whisky presumptively kosher.
(http://www.klwines.com/images/skus/620057x.jpg)
Got a bottle of Glenfarclas 17 year old for Christmas, and am giving it a second go. Very much a Speyside malt, and it has a rich sherry flavor. Could use a bit more oomph, I think. Easy to drink. Not the very best I've had, but it is very nice, and I do think I shall savor it.
a couple of great, reasonably priced blends
this is a Speyside blend
(http://www.whiskyboys.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/monkey-shoulder.jpg)
and this is an Islay
(http://www.gq.com/images/food-and-travel/2010/06/fathers-day-booze/black-bottle-scotch.jpg)
Quote from: Elgarian on July 30, 2013, 02:31:05 AM
Yes, maybe I should have mentioned that, Sarge! But on the other hand ... there's such a sense of rightness about the whole experience of a dram of a'bunadh that somehow, I feel that to single out the strength is kind of misleading. It's not great because it's strong; it's great because it offers a single wonderful integrated experience.
(For example, there's a 60% cask strength version of Edradour which, for me, doesn't work at all well compared with the standard Edradour. The strength seems to fight against the delicate nutty caramel flavour of the whisky, and I end up with the feeling of contest rather than integration.)
I have tried this, and I am a convert. (The a'bunadh, I mean.)
I've also now tried the Glenmorangie La Santa, which I find perfectly yummy, as well.
When I only have a wee drop of Quarter Cask Laphroaig left, I didn't especially want to see this thread bumped ;)
Quote from: bwv 1080 on April 16, 2014, 11:17:42 AM
a couple of great, reasonably priced blends
this is a Speyside blend
(http://www.whiskyboys.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/06/monkey-shoulder.jpg)
WTF?! :laugh: :laugh: :laugh: I'm not saying it's not good, but how did they come up with a name like that. "Hey, wanna join me for 3 fingers of monkey shoulder?" ::) "Nothing tastes better than monkey shoulder". Sounds like a line you might hear in a shady Tanzanian barbecue place...
I don't want to fill anyone with horror, buy I'm planning on getting a bottle of 7year old kentucky bourbon from...Costco. It's their house brand "Kirkland"--although apparently it is brewed by the Jim Beam company. I checked some web reviews and got very different opinions. Guess I'll decide for myself. Here in Taiwan, there are whole shops with nothing but scotch in them--one close to my house. I can drink scotch, but am not really a fan unless it's got a really gritty, peaty taste, like you filtered it through some compost.
Quote from: Baklavaboy on April 19, 2014, 12:34:21 AM
[...] I don't want to fill anyone with horror, buy I'm planning on getting a bottle of 7year old kentucky bourbon from...Costco. It's their house brand "Kirkland"--although apparently it is brewed by the Jim Beam company. I checked some web reviews and got very different opinions. Guess I'll decide for myself.
Will be interested in your report 0:)
Quote from: North Star on April 18, 2014, 03:21:37 PM
When I only have a wee drop of Quarter Cask Laphroaig left, I didn't especially want to see this thread bumped ;)
I must owe you an apology, dear fellow . . . .
Quote from: Baklavaboy on April 19, 2014, 12:34:21 AMI can drink scotch, but am not really a fan unless it's got a really gritty, peaty taste, like you filtered it through some compost.
You could just order a few millilitres of o-, m-. and p-Cresol from Sigma-Aldrich, and dilute them in 1 m
3 of whisky. 8)
Quote from: karlhenning on April 19, 2014, 05:39:00 AMI must owe you an apology, dear fellow . . . .
It's alright - though I won't object if you decide to send a bottle of Islay here :P
OK. I'm drinking my Costco '7 year old, small batch 103 proof' bourbon. I can easily say that if you like a smooth, refined flavor with a hint of elegance, you should really stay away from this stuff. It has a rich, warm flavor, but with an ornery, rather mean-spirited kick, although no unpleasant aftertaste at all. I like it, myself, and plan to get more, but I do not have refined taste, and like excessive flavor in my booze, as long as it doesn't taste chemically added. I used to drink Canadian club, which is a much better drink, probably--smooth, kindly, and easy to sip. It has disappeared from the shelves, however. (I live in Taiwan, and sometimes things just come and go.)
Costco's "Kirkland" vodka, by the way, really is classy, and is praised highly pretty much anywhere it's talked about (they have two kinds, but it's the one in the thick, heavy, bowling pin shaped bottle that is really good). I have that too, but don't use it as a mixer because it is so smooth and good I'd be drunk all the time, which I would rather not do...
Reactions to Laphroaig, tasted blind. "I can even smell the seagull's armpits." ;D
https://www.youtube.com/v/F_ivP4xqeZo
Sarge
Quote from: Baklavaboy on April 24, 2014, 02:45:21 AM
. . . I can easily say that if you like a smooth, refined flavor with a hint of elegance, you should really stay away from this stuff.
Many thanks for the smile!
Quote from: Sergeant Rock on June 06, 2014, 07:10:19 AM
"I can even smell the seagull's armpits." ;D
Many thanks for another smile!
Quote from: Sergeant Rock on June 06, 2014, 07:10:19 AM
Reactions to Laphroaig, tasted blind. "I can even smell the seagull's armpits." ;D
https://www.youtube.com/v/F_ivP4xqeZo
Sarge
I'd enjoy this even more if my bottle of Quarter Cask wasn't empty.. That final bit is priceless :D
Quote from: Sergeant Rock on June 06, 2014, 07:10:19 AMReactions to Laphroaig, tasted blind. "I can even smell the seagull's armpits."
Nice. I only ever bought one bottle, and to me it tasted like chewing on peat that had been soaked in iodine. I did notice, though, that by the third glass, I didn't mind the taste so much.
SEAGULLS HAVE ARMS!!!
Quote from: Mn Dave on June 06, 2014, 08:25:24 AM
SEAGULLS HAVE ARMS!!!
"Daddy, what did you learn today?"
(of course, technically they do have arms, we just call them wings because they're so different from our arms)
"So what you're smelling, sir, is wingpits."
Quote from: Todd on June 06, 2014, 07:26:19 AM
Nice. I only ever bought one bottle, and to me it tasted like chewing on peat that had been soaked in iodine. I did notice, though, that by the third glass, I didn't mind the taste so much.
Quote from: Baklavaboy on April 24, 2014, 02:45:21 AM
OK. I'm drinking my Costco '7 year old, small batch 103 proof' bourbon. I can easily say that if you like a smooth, refined flavor with a hint of elegance, you should really stay away from this stuff. It has a rich, warm flavor, but with an ornery, rather mean-spirited kick, although no unpleasant aftertaste at all. I like it, myself, and plan to get more, but I do not have refined taste, and like excessive flavor in my booze, as long as it doesn't taste chemically added. I used to drink Canadian club, which is a much better drink, probably--smooth, kindly, and easy to sip. It has disappeared from the shelves, however. (I live in Taiwan, and sometimes things just come and go.)
Costco's "Kirkland" vodka, by the way, really is classy, and is praised highly pretty much anywhere it's talked about (they have two kinds, but it's the one in the thick, heavy, bowling pin shaped bottle that is really good). I have that too, but don't use it as a mixer because it is so smooth and good I'd be drunk all the time, which I would rather not do...
Inefficient guys. Start with the good stuff, but after two switch to the cheap stuff.
(Kinda exactly the reverse of my approach to marriage now I see it in print! >:D :laugh:)
Two words: Jack Daniel's! ;D
Single malt from from the bonnie banks of the Jordan River (actual location is metro Tel Aviv).
http://rethinkisrael.org/israels-first-whiskey-distillery-opens-doors/
A link in the post leads to the distillery website.
(http://www.bourbonblog.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/08/Knob-Creek-Smoked-Maple.jpg)
I like Knob Creek bourbon and rye, but this is a misfire. Way too sweet, with too much maple flavor. Blech.
It's the Vanilla Coke® of liquor....
This, which seems no longer available in MI, is a very good low price bourbon, as good as many mid priced ones. I prefer it to Buffalo Trace but it's not as good as Knob Creek, to name two popular examples.
(http://img.thewhiskyexchange.com/270/brbon_jer1.jpg)
Usually about $17, comparable to a $30 plus bottle. Weed makes other things to be avoided though.
They both taste terrible, but I've never been an alcoholic beverage drinker unless it's mixed with something. Strawberry daiquiris are my favorite.
Quote from: Mirror Image on August 29, 2014, 06:36:22 PM
They both taste terrible, but I've never been an alcoholic beverage drinker unless it's mixed with something. Strawberry daiquiris are my favorite.
I thought of four responses to this, but have decided it would be best not to express any of them.
Happily, I can say that I, too, like strawberry daiquiris, especially on a Sunday afternoon with many relatives present...
Quote from: Mirror Image on August 29, 2014, 06:36:22 PM
They both taste terrible, but I've never been an alcoholic beverage drinker unless it's mixed with something. Strawberry daiquiris are my favorite.
Quote from: Baklavaboy on August 29, 2014, 09:51:54 PM
I thought of four responses to this, but have decided it would be best not to express any of them.
;D :laugh: ;D
(http://photos.imageevent.com/sgtrock/may2014/RealMen.jpg)
Sarge
Quote from: Sergeant Rock on August 30, 2014, 02:29:14 AM
;D :laugh: ;D
(http://photos.imageevent.com/sgtrock/may2014/RealMen.jpg)
Sarge
Now there's a book that looks interesting - and it has an elegant cover, too. Where's that Amazon link?! 8)
Quote from: Baklavaboy on August 29, 2014, 09:51:54 PM
I thought of four responses to this, but have decided it would be best not to express any of them.
Happily, I can say that I, too, like strawberry daiquiris, especially on a Sunday afternoon with many relatives present...
With many relatives present you need something that goes down quick and easy.
Quote from: Baklavaboy on August 29, 2014, 09:51:54 PM
I thought of four responses to this, but have decided it would be best not to express any of them.
Happily, I can say that I, too, like strawberry daiquiris, especially on a Sunday afternoon with many relatives present...
;D Well it's not like I drink strawberry daiquiris religiously. Only once in awhile. I like sweet iced tea, ginger ale, and water. Those are my drinks of choice.
Quote from: Sergeant Rock on August 30, 2014, 02:29:14 AM
;D :laugh: ;D
(http://photos.imageevent.com/sgtrock/may2014/RealMen.jpg)
Sarge
:P
Quote from: Mirror Image on August 30, 2014, 06:09:42 AM
it's not like I drink strawberry daiquiris religiously.
Yeah, we know.
Quote from: Mirror Image on August 30, 2014, 06:09:42 AM
;D Well it's not like I drink strawberry daiquiris religiously.
I haven't had a daiquiri in maybe 25 years. Your post made me thirsty ;D I bought a bottle of rum (haven't touched rum in a quarter century either, come to think of it), a half dozen limes, and brewed up a batch of simple syrup. I'll make one for dessert tonight 8)
Sarge
When I learnt that simple syrup is sugar dissolved in water, I found two reasons not to add it to my liquor 8)
Quote from: Sergeant Rock on August 30, 2014, 07:43:25 AM
I haven't had a daiquiri in maybe 25 years. Your post made me thirsty ;D I bought a bottle of rum (haven't touched rum in a quarter century either, come to think of it), a half dozen limes, and brewed up a batch of simple syrup. I'll make one for dessert tonight 8)
Sarge :)
actually, if I lived in the States, I would join you. Our family recipe was a bag of frozen strawberries, one can of limade, and then fill the can with rum and add that, plus ice, in a blender. Obviously it made quite a bit. Probably a good dash of triple-sec would be good in there too.
Quote from: karlhenning on August 30, 2014, 07:57:13 AM
When I learnt that simple syrup is sugar dissolved in water, I found two reasons not to add it to my liquor 8)
Yeah, I know ;D And considering rum is made from sugar cane, I fear a sweetness overload. But once upon a time I liked daiquiris. It'll be interesting to see now if I can understand why.
Sarge
done right - adding a shot of orange liqueur and real fresh squeezed lime juice, a daiquiri is the same as a margarita
Quote from: bwv 1080 on August 30, 2014, 08:08:51 AMadding a shot of orange liqueur
That might have helped. My rum, lime juice, simple syrup concoction didn't thrill. It wasn't bad but didn't inspire either.
Sarge
Quote from: karlhenning on August 30, 2014, 07:57:13 AM
When I learnt that simple syrup is sugar dissolved in water, I found two reasons not to add it to my liquor 8)
The only thing I want in my scotch is .... more scotch.
Quote from: Ken B on August 30, 2014, 12:42:27 PM
The only thing I want in my scotch is .... more scotch.
Aye, just so.
Quote from: Sergeant Rock on August 30, 2014, 08:05:13 AM
Yeah, I know ;D And considering rum is made from sugar cane, I fear a sweetness overload. But once upon a time I liked daiquiris. It'll be interesting to see now if I can understand why.
Sarge
Sweet drinks are like first wives: you know you liked them at the time but you can't imagine why.
>:D
Quote from: Ken B on August 30, 2014, 03:56:38 PM
Sweet drinks are like first wives: you know you liked them at the time but you can't imagine why.
>:D
An analogy I can certainly identify with ;D
Sarge
Had a Laphroaig dark chocolate truffle yesterday. Mmmmm.
Quote from: Sergeant Rock on August 31, 2014, 06:49:14 AM
An analogy I can certainly identify with ;D
Sarge
I was going to say that, since I remain wedded to my (sole) wife, I could probably agree with that on a technicality, without provoking a yellow card.
Lord knows I had girlfriends prior to my marriage, who (had I married them) would have been corn to this sickle.
I mentioned earlier that I prefer bourbon to scotch, although over the years I've tried quite a few kinds of scotch and like some better than others. A friend gave me a bottle of Johnny Walker Blue as a gift for doing him a favor. I am very impressed. It's extraordinary. My wife says I drank a bottle that her father gave me during Chinese New Year a couple of years back and enjoyed it then, too, but I have no memory of that ;)
Quote from: karlhenning on August 31, 2014, 06:55:31 AM
I was going to say that, since I remain wedded to my (sole) wife, I could probably agree with that on a technicality, without provoking a yellow card.
Lord knows I had girlfriends prior to my marriage, who (had I married them) would have been corn to this sickle.
You were more prudent than I ... :(
Although my better half since 2001 has been the first girl I ever kissed, way back when.
Quote from: Baklavaboy on August 31, 2014, 07:09:43 AM
I mentioned earlier that I prefer bourbon to scotch, although over the years I've tried quite a few kinds of scotch and like some better than others. A friend gave me a bottle of Johnny Walker Blue as a gift for doing him a favor. I am very impressed. It's extraordinary. My wife says I drank a bottle that her father gave me during Chinese New Year a couple of years back and enjoyed it then, too, but I have no memory of that ;)
It better be, the bottle costs more than even you spend on CDs in month ...
Quote from: Ken B on August 31, 2014, 07:15:36 AM
It better be, the bottle costs more than even you spend on CDs in month ...
I doubt that very much :D It's been a good month.
Quote from: Baklavaboy on August 31, 2014, 07:23:14 AM
I doubt that very much :D It's been a good month.
About $350 a litre in Canada. Probably noticeably lower in the States. A few years ago a friend paid almost $400.
Quote from: Ken B on August 31, 2014, 07:35:25 AM
About $350 a litre in Canada. Probably noticeably lower in the States. A few years ago a friend paid almost $400.
Mine's a fifth. I think it costs about $130 here. This one seems to have been "re-gifted". The bottle was quite dirty, and it had been opened, although it seemed to be full.
I got the Brilliant Haydn and Bach boxes this month, as well as the KG Abbado and the DHM French Baroque, so...
(http://38.media.tumblr.com/50dd66a6de66db0f16ce3d1187689e2f/tumblr_n8d8inesgI1s71q1zo1_1280.png)
Children's Whiskey?
BTW, I recently got a bottle of fairly cheap yet (I believe) respectable scotch "Famous Grouse". However, it seems that even if I just have 3 or 4 ounces, I still wake up with a mild hangover...is that just an aberration, or is it much worse than I had thought? Any input?
(http://www.31dover.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/1000x1000/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/3/1/31dover-lagavulin-shadow320x1000_1_.jpg)
Quote from: milk on September 18, 2014, 03:35:51 AM
(http://www.31dover.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/1000x1000/9df78eab33525d08d6e5fb8d27136e95/3/1/31dover-lagavulin-shadow320x1000_1_.jpg)
Oh I do like that one. More than I'm willing to pay alas, but the best I've ever had.
Quote from: Ken B on August 29, 2014, 06:31:38 PM
This, which seems no longer available in MI, is a very good low price bourbon, as good as many mid priced ones. I prefer it to Buffalo Trace but it's not as good as Knob Creek, to name two popular examples.
(http://img.thewhiskyexchange.com/270/brbon_jer1.jpg)
Usually about $17, comparable to a $30 plus bottle. Weed makes other things to be avoided though.
You surprise me. With the new legal status of marijuana in Denver, I would have thought a drink called "Weed" would be unavoidable--but no, I haven't heard of it! :o
Quote from: Baklavaboy on September 18, 2014, 01:47:08 AM
Children's Whiskey?
Gotta get 'em started sometime.
(http://33.media.tumblr.com/d7a21af12b0c464d779c01cebbcfe57e/tumblr_n8zewb6XC81s71q1zo1_1280.png)
Quote from: The Six on September 18, 2014, 11:02:44 AM
Gotta get 'em started sometime.
(http://33.media.tumblr.com/d7a21af12b0c464d779c01cebbcfe57e/tumblr_n8zewb6XC81s71q1zo1_1280.png)
Our family is split on children's whiskey. My son preferred this to Country Recess when he was 7 or so, but I remember grandpa reminiscing about Recess when he was a youngster. I was more partial to
Captain Parrot's Children's Rum.
Quote from: Ken B on September 18, 2014, 01:32:21 PMI was more partial to Captain Parrot's Children's Rum.
Oh yes, especially good with a splash of lime and some simple syrup. A great party drink. I recall it fondly; the drink of choice at my sixth birthday party.
Sarge
From your Daiquiri Period :D
Quote from: karlhenning on September 19, 2014, 03:56:50 AM
From your Daiquiri Period :D
I was really young, what did I know about taste? :laugh:
Sarge
Say it ain't so. (http://time.com/3555773/worlds-best-whisky-yamazaki-single-malt-sherry-cask-2013-suntory-jim-murrays-whisky-bible-2015/)
Quote from: Todd on November 05, 2014, 06:55:03 PM
Say it ain't so. (http://time.com/3555773/worlds-best-whisky-yamazaki-single-malt-sherry-cask-2013-suntory-jim-murrays-whisky-bible-2015/)
Wait 'til you try the Japanese haggis.
Quote from: Todd on November 05, 2014, 06:55:03 PM
Say it ain't so. (http://time.com/3555773/worlds-best-whisky-yamazaki-single-malt-sherry-cask-2013-suntory-jim-murrays-whisky-bible-2015/)
Here's a list of the winners in all categories:
http://blog.thewhiskyexchange.com/2014/11/jim-murrays-whisky-bible-2015-the-winners/
I was particularly interested in the Highland Park Loki...until I saw the prices being asked (€738 at Amazon DE ??? )
(http://photos.imageevent.com/sgtrock/may2014/HighlandParkLoki.jpg)
Sarge
I remember this ad campaign from when I was just a lad. Appeared in Ranger Rick every month. I remember once it even came with a scratch n sniff card. Goot times.
(http://scs-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/int/v21n8/htdocs/sean-t/country-recess.jpg)
Popping in into this thread for some recommendations please. I do not know anything about scotch/bourbon at all but I am looking to buy a nice bottle for my dad for Christmas. All I know is that he likes Johnnie Walker (Red Label I think) for "basic" apéritif and Chivas Regal either 12 or 18 years for more special occasions.
If I am looking for something a bit more special that would fall into his tastes above, which bottles / brands would you recommend please ? Budget probably 70 GBP / 90 Euros tops.
Cheers ;D
Edit : in the UK, for comparison, Chivas 12 is £27 and the Chivas 18 is around £40.
Others will have more to add, but I much enjoy The MacAllan 10-year, and Glenmorangie La Santa.
Quote from: Papy Oli on November 18, 2014, 10:40:43 AMAll I know is that he likes Johnnie Walker (Red Label I think) for "basic" apéritif and Chivas Regal either 12 or 18 years for more special occasions.
Karl and I are on the same page. Your father might enjoy The Macallan (the "Rolls Royce of Single Malts"). Like Chivas, it's a Speyside whisky. The 12yo is 70 pounds from Amazon (http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Macallan-Sherry-Single-Whisky/dp/B001TZ3ZN4/ref=sr_1_10?s=grocery&ie=UTF8&qid=1416340775&sr=1-10&keywords=macallan+whisky).
I like Lagavulin 16.
Avoid anything Islay, such as Laphroaig, unless you know he likes that style.
duly noted, thank you gents !
Elgarian would undoubtedly suggest http://www.aberlour.com/range/aberlour-abunadh/
And he would undoubtedly right.
Quote from: Jeffrey Smith on November 18, 2014, 06:43:34 PM
Elgarian would undoubtedly suggest http://www.aberlour.com/range/aberlour-abunadh/
And he would undoubtedly right.
Oh, he would, indeed!
After reading and searching a bit over the last few days, I decided to go for a bottle of Aberlour-A'bunadh (batch 48) for now.
on the colour alone, I might even try a sip of that at Christmas myself :o
There's still a month to go though, plenty of time to throw in a Macallan as well ... 0:)
Quote from: Papy Oli on November 24, 2014, 10:58:17 AM
After reading and searching a bit over the last few days, I decided to go for a bottle of Aberlour-A'bunadh (batch 48) for now.
on the colour alone, I might even try a sip of that at Christmas myself :o
There's still a month to go though, plenty of time to throw in a Macallan as well ... 0:)
Ralfy on Youtube warns that A'bunadh isn't quite as special as it used to be.
https://www.youtube.com/v/1-yj61VPPnY
As long as my old man likes it in 30 days' time, it's all good :)
I should give him the link to those videos for him to practice his "English" >:D
Quote from: North Star on November 24, 2014, 11:13:31 AM
Ralfy on Youtube warns that A'bunadh isn't quite as special as it used to be.
Interesting review....and it may explain why I didn't have an Elgarian-type whisky epiphany with the bottle I purchased (batch 45).
Sarge
'Tis the season: more unscripted opinions about Laphroaig, this time set to Christmas carols ;D
https://www.youtube.com/v/UzR9cvsz85g
Sarge
Scotch or Bourbon? *urp* My answer is *rup* yes. :laugh:
Quote from: Sergeant Rock on December 15, 2014, 04:09:47 AM
'Tis the season: more unscripted opinions about Laphroaig, this time set to Christmas carols ;D
https://www.youtube.com/v/UzR9cvsz85g
Sarge
Filter it?
Wimps.
Order is everything 8)
Quote from: jochanaan on December 15, 2014, 12:16:20 PM
Scotch or Bourbon? *urp* My answer is *rup* yes. :laugh:
BTW, that was a joke. I'm not into Scotch or bourbon, although I do enjoy an occasional shot of Jack. That's ONE shot! ;D
Just bought two bottles of Ardbeg Uigeadail and one bottle og Bruicladdich Port Charlotte Heavily Peated. I'm set for Christmas.
Quote from: The new erato on December 16, 2014, 12:07:19 PM
Just bought two bottles of Ardbeg Uigeadail and one bottle og Bruicladdich Port Charlotte Heavily Peated. I'm set for Christmas.
Norwegians only drink during daylight?
Yep, the limited light saved me some money.
To change the pace
(http://www.totalwine.com/_static/webupload/731/2_103766750_3_3.jpg)
Rich 10 year old Bajan. Seale's is appatently the major distiller on Barbados.
Pepsi.
Thanks. You're going to regret it some day, though. ;)
That time of the year again to set my brother up with a bottle or two of decent drink. (Last year you might remember that we went with a moonshine).
Kept it Colorado this year:
(http://www.klwines.com/images/skus/1060264x.jpg)
http://www.leopoldbros.com/#!home/c10rj
Also, thrown into the "mix":
(http://www.wallywine.com/images/Product/large/148268.jpg)
Dunno, and do not want to know, what Navy strength means. Sounds more like a cleaner than a sipper.
Quote from: Bogey on December 23, 2014, 03:18:38 AM
Dunno, and do not want to know, what Navy strength means. Sounds more like a cleaner than a sipper.
Navy strength: gin with a very high alcohol content. "...the historical proof at which gunpowder might still be fired should it unfortunately be soaked by spilled spirit."
Sarge
Quote from: Sergeant Rock on December 23, 2014, 04:54:56 AM
Navy strength: gin with a very high alcohol content. "...the historical proof at which gunpowder might still be fired should it unfortunately be soaked by spilled spirit."
Sarge
Uh, oh. ;D
I debated which thread to put this in, here or the eating thread. I had smoked salmon for lunch, salmon that had been marinated in Glenmorangie 8)
(http://photos.imageevent.com/sgtrock/foodandwine/whiskylachs.jpg)
Sarge
Quote from: Papy Oli on November 24, 2014, 10:58:17 AM
After reading and searching a bit over the last few days, I decided to go for a bottle of Aberlour-A'bunadh (batch 48) for now.
on the colour alone, I might even try a sip of that at Christmas myself :o
The Aberlour A'bunadh was thoroughly enjoyed at Christmas. My dad really liked it. I even did like the aftertaste !!
Thanks again to you all for the recs.
Quote from: Sergeant Rock on December 23, 2014, 04:57:45 AM
I debated which thread to put this in, here or the eating thread. I had smoked salmon for lunch, salmon that had been marinated in Glenmorangie 8)
(http://photos.imageevent.com/sgtrock/foodandwine/whiskylachs.jpg)
Sarge
Oooooooooooooooooo.
Anything else in the marinade?
Quote from: Ken B on December 30, 2014, 11:01:42 AM
Oooooooooooooooooo.
Anything else in the marinade?
Just salt and sugar.
Sarge
Quote from: Papy Oli on December 30, 2014, 10:49:24 AM
The Aberlour A'bunadh was thoroughly enjoyed at Christmas. My dad really liked it. I even did like the aftertaste !!
Excellent!
I bought a bottle of Glenfiddich (sp?) 15 year old to drink with a visiting Scotch drinker. I usually prefer bourbon, but was very pleasantly surprised. Rich, mellow flavor--heavy and even a bit sweet.
Quote from: Mookalafalas on December 31, 2014, 07:39:20 AM
I bought a bottle of Glenfiddich (sp?) 15 year old to drink with a visiting Scotch drinker. I usually prefer bourbon, but was very pleasantly surprised. Rich, mellow flavor--heavy and even a bit sweet.
Ever had Elijah Craig? That's my favourite mid priced bourbon. (My favourite high price bourbon is a box of CDs and a cheap bourbon 8))
Quote from: Ken B on December 31, 2014, 10:52:56 AM
(My favourite high price bourbon is a box of CDs and a cheap bourbon 8))
A wise man :)
Quote from: Ken B on December 31, 2014, 10:52:56 AM
Ever had Elijah Craig? That's my favourite mid priced bourbon.
I have, not my favorite, but nigh thereunto.
Quote from: Papy Oli on December 30, 2014, 10:49:24 AM
The Aberlour A'bunadh was thoroughly enjoyed at Christmas. My dad really liked it. I even did like the aftertaste !!
Thanks again to you all for the recs.
Whew! ;)
Quote from: Bogey on December 23, 2014, 03:18:38 AM
That time of the year again to set my brother up with a bottle or two of decent drink. (Last year you might remember that we went with a moonshine).
Kept it Colorado this year:
(http://www.klwines.com/images/skus/1060264x.jpg)
http://www.leopoldbros.com/#!home/c10rj
Also, thrown into the "mix":
(http://www.wallywine.com/images/Product/large/148268.jpg)
Dunno, and do not want to know, what Navy strength means. Sounds more like a cleaner than a sipper.
Oooh, haven't seen those! Nor have I yet had a chance to taste Stranahan's... :)
When placing an order with Amazon, I couldn't decide between bourbon and scotch, so I ordered both: an Islay I've never tried before, Caol Ila; and a bourbon that is also new to me, Bulleit Frontier Whiskey.
The Bulleit purchase was inspired by an article and accompanying comments about the insane prices for Pappy Van Winkle. Several folks claimed there were other bourbons just as good, and reasonably priced. Bulleit was mentioned a few times.
(http://photos.imageevent.com/sgtrock/foodandwine/P5191984_550.jpg)
Sarge
Caol Ila 12 YO is very good stuff IMO.
Quote from: Sergeant Rock on May 19, 2015, 09:21:43 AM
When placing an order with Amazon, I couldn't decide between bourbon and scotch, so I ordered both: an Islay I've never tried before, Caol Ila; and a bourbon that is also new to me, Bulleit Frontier Whiskey.
The Bulleit purchase was inspired by an article and accompanying comments about the insane prices for Pappy Van Winkle. Several folks claimed there were other bourbons just as good, and reasonably priced. Bulleit was mentioned a few times.
(http://photos.imageevent.com/sgtrock/foodandwine/P5191984_550.jpg)
Sarge
I have liked the Bulleit I have tried. I have a bottle in the basement. It is quite popular.
One good development this year is I have have started to prefer bourbon. My wallet is very happy. I even found a good ridiculously cheap rum, Cruzan Aged Dark. Insist on the dark! The Cruzan Aged Rum is pale crap. But the dark is a decent tipple and under $10 a bottle.
(http://static1.squarespace.com/static/544598ade4b06ae7933812d2/554b8661e4b09bf8cbb8b00a/554bd7efe4b019d54908f85b/1443544019007/?format=1500w)
After a good long while of drinking a variety of ryes, I'm returning to scotch, though of the blended variety. I got some Johnnie Green, and it is delicious, and the most single malt-y blend I've yet sampled.
Scotch, and Islay whenever possible. Lagavulin 16 is my go to whisky. I built an Irish Pub in my basement and everything is Irish but the malts.
Quote from: Mr. Three Putt on October 10, 2015, 02:27:27 PM
Scotch, and Islay whenever possible. Lagavulin 16 is my go to whisky.
+1 to both
Quote from: Mr. Three Putt on October 10, 2015, 02:27:27 PM
Scotch, and Islay whenever possible. Lagavulin 16 is my go to whisky. I built an Irish Pub in my basement and everything is Irish but the malts.
Lagavulin 16 is tops with me too, but I am drinking bourbon almost exclusively these days.
Quote from: Ken B on October 10, 2015, 02:48:01 PM
Lagavulin 16 is tops with me too, but I am drinking bourbon almost exclusively these days.
wow! A wonder you get your spelling right!
Quote from: Ken B on October 10, 2015, 02:48:01 PM
Lagavulin 16 is tops with me too
You're now my best friend
Quote from: Ken B on October 10, 2015, 02:48:01 PMbut I am drinking bourbon almost exclusively these days.
Unfriended ;)
Quote from: Mr. Three Putt on October 10, 2015, 03:12:42 PM
You're now my best friend
Unfriended ;)
We should try to convince each other. You buy me some Lagavulin 16, I'll buy you some Elijah Craig. ;)
Quote from: Ken B on October 10, 2015, 04:59:58 PM
We should try to convince each other. You buy me some Lagavulin 16, I'll buy you some Elijah Craig. ;)
You drive a hard bargain. I'll take mine neat.
And for the record, your two quotes are works of brilliance.
We went to the cinema yesterday (to see the Grigorovich 'Giselle' - featuring a particularly ethereal Svetlana Zakharova) and beforehand had an early dinner in our favourite Italian restaurant. The owner was on the premises and as usual kindly offered me a drink on the house before we left. I chose a single malt in the shape of an ever humble Glenfiddich 12yo. At home we usually keep a bottle of Edradour in case the neighbours stop by because we fear them reporting us to the Residents' association if I offend them by offering my go to old faithful, Whyte & Mackay Special Blend -
(http://i.imgur.com/AbenN36.jpg)
Totally clueless about bourbon, but a local bartender I trust recommended Eagle Rare 10 Year. I grabbed a bottle for $25 to use in making old-fashioneds and so far, so good. Wouldn't mind hearing from you more knowledgeable people if this was a good buy.
Quote from: Brian on October 12, 2015, 10:00:57 AMTotally clueless about bourbon, but a local bartender I trust recommended Eagle Rare 10 Year.
It's good stuff. I think the local price where I live is $30-ish.
I'm still a newbie. I've no idea about bourbon. I've tried a few whiskeys though -
- Glenfiddich 15 & 18, and so far Glenfiddich 18 is my favorite, though it's only a hair better than Glenlfiddich 15
- Chivas Regal 18, which I also like almost as much as Glenfiddich
- Glenlivet 15 & 18, both very good but it will be a long time before I buy one again if Glenfiddich or Chivas Regal are around
- Johnnie Walker black & blue
- Jameson, which my brother-in-law likes with his horrible cheap cardboard cigars
- and of course, lots of Jim Beam and Jack Daniels
I have a story about Johnnie Walker blue. When my wife, then fiancée, and I were going to ask her parents for permission to marry (which was just a formality but we wanted to be polite), she told me it would be a good idea, given that her parents were Korean, to bring gifts. So what should I bring? Flowers for the mom, she said, and liquor for the dad. So I figured, I want to make a good impression on this guy who is going to be my father-in-law, and I got this massive bottle of Johnnie Walker blue. I don't remember exactly how much, but I'll guess it was two liters, and with Korean taxes it cost something like $500. So we get permission to marry. That night her father, his brother, and his brother's son-in-law drank the entire bottle.
What a waste. I should've just given them soju.
In the much better than one would expect for $15 department
(http://ep.yimg.com/ay/yhst-137288250956011/black-powder-bourbon-8.jpg)
And I have been getting into this.
(http://static1.squarespace.com/static/5100ee6be4b02a000f7bfad9/510123b1e4b00028821b8df2/519dc70ce4b03e792399d20f/1369294696374/ערק+אשקלון+-+תמונת+מוצר.jpg?format=1000w)
Unlike most araks, it is made from molasses, not grapes ( which allows them to avoid the restrictions involved with kosher wine) by Barkan, one of the biggest wineries in Israel (possibly the biggest )
Quote from: coffee on October 12, 2015, 11:21:39 AM
I'm still a newbie. I've no idea about bourbon. I've tried a few whiskeys though -
- Glenfiddich 15 & 18, and so far Glenfiddich 18 is my favorite, though it's only a hair better than Glenlfiddich 15
- Chivas Regal 18, which I also like almost as much as Glenfiddich
- Glenlivet 15 & 18, both very good but it will be a long time before I buy one again if Glenfiddich or Chivas Regal are around
- Johnnie Walker black & blue
- Jameson, which my brother-in-law likes with his horrible cheap cardboard cigars
- and of course, lots of Jim Beam and Jack Daniels
I have a story about Johnnie Walker blue. When my wife, then fiancée, and I were going to ask her parents for permission to marry (which was just a formality but we wanted to be polite), she told me it would be a good idea, given that her parents were Korean, to bring gifts. So what should I bring? Flowers for the mom, she said, and liquor for the dad. So I figured, I want to make a good impression on this guy who is going to be my father-in-law, and I got this massive bottle of Johnnie Walker blue. I don't remember exactly how much, but I'll guess it was two liters, and with Korean taxes it cost something like $500. So we get permission to marry. That night her father, his brother, and his brother's son-in-law drank the entire bottle.
What a waste. I should've just given them soju.
This might sound (look) crazy but I prefer the 15 to 18 in both Glens, and prefer the 'livet to the 'fiddich. I've also found Old Pulteney to be a decent option as they offer some interesting limited releases. I do enjoy Blue Label but do not find it 3x better than my beloved Islays. And speaking of the Blue, my bottle is open but mostly full, in large format, and awaits your arrival, dear friend. If that last sentence had too many commas, chalk, it, up, to, the, whisky. I have no problem with us destroying it in one night, yet my liver may have certain conditions. It's the least I can do.
Quote from: Brian on October 12, 2015, 10:00:57 AM
Totally clueless about bourbon, but a local bartender I trust recommended Eagle Rare 10 Year. I grabbed a bottle for $25 to use in making old-fashioneds and so far, so good. Wouldn't mind hearing from you more knowledgeable people if this was a good buy.
Probably. They make small batches so the variance between bottles can be high. Sounds like you got one you like. But, straight or on ice!
Quote from: North Star on November 24, 2014, 11:13:31 AM
Ralfy on Youtube warns that A'bunadh isn't quite as special as it used to be.
https://www.youtube.com/v/1-yj61VPPnY
Quote from: Sergeant Rock on November 25, 2014, 07:19:38 AM
Interesting review....and it may explain why I didn't have an Elgarian-type whisky epiphany with the bottle I purchased (batch 45).
Sarge
I'm halfway down a bottle of A'bunadh Batch 49, trying to determine whether there's been a 'falling-off' such as described above. It's so hard to decide, because there's no solid ground for comparison - just memories. It may be a little fiercer than it used to be; maybe not quite so 'long'. But has the whisky changed significantly, or it is me? After all, I'm older than I used to be, I'm drinking it in different company, after different food, on different days, and not always in the same place. There is no 'standard' whisky-drinking experience that I can reliably refer to.
What is certainly still there in abundance is that rich caramel luxuriousness, and the long warm resonant glow that's not like any other whisky I've tasted (there's an Aberlour 16-year-old that's been around for a few years, and which I've dallied with, but it's obviously a second-best, re-tasted now and then more in hope than faith). The upshot is that A'bunadh is still, by some distance, my whisky of choice (among those I can afford).
Quote from: Elgarian on October 12, 2015, 11:32:26 PM
I'm halfway down a bottle of A'bunadh Batch 49, trying to determine whether there's been a 'falling-off' such as described above. It's so hard to decide, because there's no solid ground for comparison - just memories. It may be a little fiercer than it used to be; maybe not quite so 'long'. But has the whisky changed significantly, or it is me? After all, I'm older than I used to be, I'm drinking it in different company, after different food, on different days, and not always in the same place. There is no 'standard' whisky-drinking experience that I can reliably refer to.
What is certainly still there in abundance is that rich caramel luxuriousness, and the long warm resonant glow that's not like any other whisky I've tasted (there's an Aberlour 16-year-old that's been around for a few years, and which I've dallied with, but it's obviously a second-best, re-tasted now and then more in hope than faith). The upshot is that A'bunadh is still, by some distance, my whisky of choice (among those I can afford).
Many thanks for your earnest report, dear fellow!
Quote from: Jeffrey Smith on October 12, 2015, 12:29:28 PM
In the much better than one would expect for $15 department
(http://ep.yimg.com/ay/yhst-137288250956011/black-powder-bourbon-8.jpg)
Note taken . . . .
Thread Duty:At the suggestion of our local purveyor.
You've all convinced me to revisit bourbon. Granted, it doesn't take a huge amount of prodding to make me try a new liquor but still. Results coming in the near future.
Quote from: karlhenning on October 13, 2015, 03:40:45 AM
Many thanks for your earnest report, dear fellow!
You're most welcome. It was hard, Karl, working through that half bottle. But a man has responsibilities to his friends, you know? And no matter what it cost me, I felt I just had to take the job on. To go out there, yet again, and report back from the whisky edge ...
. . . back from the amber edge
Quote from: karlhenning on October 13, 2015, 05:27:35 AM
. . . back from the amber edge
The Amber Edge of Elsewhere?
(http://us.thebar.com/img/bottle-shots/all/img-the-bar-collection__dp-49047_crown-royal-rye.png)
Tried the 2016 World Whiskey of the Year, Crown Royal Northern Harvest Rye. I'm not sure how one determines the whiskey of the year - though I'd gladly take on the job were it to become available - but this whiskey has the slightest tinge of sweetness, is crazy smooth, and has somewhat subdued flavors. It's the best mid-priced rye I've had (ca $30/bottle) but it doesn't match up to the earthier Michter's Rye for me. I'll probably end up buying another bottle, though.
Quote from: Todd on December 20, 2015, 08:23:06 AM
(http://us.thebar.com/img/bottle-shots/all/img-the-bar-collection__dp-49047_crown-royal-rye.png)
Tried the 2016 World Whiskey of the Year, Crown Royal Northern Harvest Rye. I'm not sure how one determines the whiskey of the year - though I'd gladly take on the job were it to become available - but this whiskey has the slightest tinge of sweetness, is crazy smooth, and has somewhat subdued flavors. It's the best mid-priced rye I've had (ca $30/bottle) but it doesn't match up to the earthier Michter's Rye for me. I'll probably end up buying another bottle, though.
Imagine how good it could have been if they hadn't spent most of the $30 on the bottle!
Aha! Found it.
Worth mentioning a couple of malts that I've enjoyed during the last couple of years: finding myself gravitating towards slightly lighter whiskies (lighter by comparison with Aberlour's flagship), I found an unexpected plasure in Tobermory 10 year old. Not sweet like, say, Glenmorangie, but delicate and ... nutty? For a while it became my go-to dram.
Then there was Tomatin. I've driven past the distillery (just south of Inverness) many a time, but have never stopped, or sampled the whisky. But walking along a street in Ullapool we spotted a bottle in a shop window and indulged our whim. Well, it was an instant hit, and has joined Tobermory as one of our favourites. Again, it's light and airy - and again, not sweet. But beware. There is a thing called Tomatin Legacy which can be picked up more cheaply, and this is not in the same league: quite raw and rough, by comparison, and ominously, it has no age statement on the label.
Bumpity bump 8)
Just under 6 years ago, I asked some recommendations for my dad for his Christmas gift and those served him very well at the time...and since then too, thank you. Now I am back again for his forthcoming 70th, looking for a nice new bottle or two for him to try.
His tastes so far:
* Used to love Chivas Regal for blended on special occasions.
* Now fully converted to Speyside single Malt scotch : He loved the bottles i got him of Macallan (10 or 12 yo), Glenlivet (Founder's Reserve i think), Strathisla 12 yo. Also liked the Aberlour A'bunadh Cask (48 i think it was) although a bit too strong for his usual taste.
* Other he liked a lot: Jura 10 yo (I had a sip of this one with him, that very nearly converted me to whiskey, the aftertaste was gorgeous ;D )
* Absolute no go : Peaty stuff like Laphroaig
* Non plussed : Glenfiddich, Monkey Shoulder..
Now looking for some new names for him to try: I saw Glenfarclas and Balvenie for Speyside. Is that any good ?
Anything from other regions please ? Glenmorangie for the Highlands ?
A possible side track : Japanese whiskey, any offers please ?
Any Irish Whiskey brands to look at for his tastes ?
Thank you.
Quote from: Papy Oli on May 22, 2020, 05:05:30 AM
Bumpity bump 8)
Just under 6 years ago, I asked some recommendations for my dad for his Christmas gift and those served him very well at the time...and since then too, thank you. Now I am back again for his forthcoming 70th, looking for a nice new bottle or two for him to try.
His tastes so far:
* Used to love Chivas Regal for blended on special occasions.
* Now fully converted to Speyside single Malt scotch : He loved the bottles i got him of Macallan (10 or 12 yo), Glenlivet (Founder's Reserve i think), Strathisla 12 yo. Also liked the Aberlour A'bunadh Cask (48 i think it was) although a bit too strong for his usual taste.
* Other he liked a lot: Jura 10 yo (I had a sip of this one with him, that very nearly converted me to whiskey, the aftertaste was gorgeous ;D )
* Absolute no go : Peaty stuff like Laphroaig
* Non plussed : Glenfiddich, Monkey Shoulder..
Now looking for some new names for him to try: I saw Glenfarclas and Balvenie for Speyside. Is that any good ?
Anything from other regions please ? Glenmorangie for the Highlands ?
A possible side track : Japanese whiskey, any offers please ?
Any Irish Whiskey brands to look at for his tastes ?
Thank you.
As two of my favourites, Glenfiddich and Laphroiag are out of bounds I will have to fall back on second reserves Glenlivet and Glenmorangie.
Quote from: Biffo on May 22, 2020, 06:06:26 AM
As two of my favourites, Glenfiddich and Laphroiag are out of bounds I will have to fall back on second reserves Glenlivet and Glenmorangie.
Thank you Biffo. Any particular Glenmorangie in mind please ?
Quote from: Papy Oli on May 22, 2020, 06:08:10 AM
Thank you Biffo. Any particular Glenmorangie in mind please ?
I have before me an unopened (!) bottle of 'Ten Years Old' Glenmorangie which I think is the most common variety. I am sure I have tried others in the past but can't remember what they were.
Quote from: Biffo on May 22, 2020, 06:12:43 AM
I have before me an unopened (!) bottle of 'Ten Years Old' Glenmorangie which I think is the most common variety. I am sure I have tried others in the past but can't remember what they were.
ok, cheers ;D