Scotch Malt Whisky Society

[Colr]

Anyone a member? Is it worth the money.

I'm in London but in Edinburgh quite a bit on business these days. So I'd use the venues down south much more but not exclusively.

Interesting selection of single cask on their shop but doesn't say which distilleries.

[Pretty Boy]

Anyone a member? Is it worth the money.

I'm in London but in Edinburgh quite a bit on business these days. So I'd use the venues down south much more but not exclusively.

Interesting selection of single cask on their shop but doesn't say which distilleries.

None of the whiskies on sale at the society officially tell you what distillery they come from. They are all identifiable by a code number, of course in the modern day a quick google will get you a list of what number relates to what distillery.

I had a joint membership with a couple of guys on here for a while and then had my own the last couple of years. Worth the money imo, some of the events are very good.

[Holmesdale Hibs]

How much is it? My wife took me whiskey tasting there a few years ago and really enjoyed it. Not sure I'd use it often enough to merit a membership but it's a good place.

[Colr]

How much is it? My wife took me whiskey tasting there a few years ago and really enjoyed it. Not sure I'd use it often enough to merit a membership but it's a good place.

It's £122 a year.

Cheaper than the Caledonian Club which would ever have me as a member anyway!!

[JeMeSouviens]

One of my previous employers had corporate membership. We had 4 cards and you got 4 people in on each one. Tbh though, I don't remember ever being asked to show them so you could probably blag your way in for an introductory visit. The Leith place is great, especially in the winter in front of a roaring fire. I wasn't so keen on Queen St. The descriptions on the whisky menu will usually give you a good clue as to what you're drinking but if you don't get it, the bar staff will tell you. :wink: The food is pretty good too.

[TRC]

They are in the process of selling queen Street just now or may have already don't quite know how it'll be after the refurbishment. Always a delight no phones for a long time which was amazing. Love the place used to go out with a few of the staff for a session on occasion as well all good guys and knew their stuff

[snooky]

How much is it? My wife took me whiskey tasting there a few years ago and really enjoyed it. Not sure I'd use it often enough to merit a membership but it's a good place.

Oh dear, bad start there, HH. :wink:

[Holmesdale Hibs]

Oh dear, bad start there, HH. :wink:

Oh dear, that's blasphemy. I'm feeling quite ashamed and will hold my hands up on that one and say that is must have been predictive txt.

[Colr]

Well,I signed up and have treated myself to this little number.

https://www.smws.com/fresh-as-a-winter-waterfall

Might get something with more fruit and body for the late evenings when I get my wee voucher.

Up in Edinburgh next week but I don't know if my card will be through in time.

How much is a dram in 28 Queen Street? Anyone remember?

[Hibbyradge]

Well,I signed up and have treated myself to this little number.

https://www.smws.com/fresh-as-a-winter-waterfall

Might get something with more fruit and body for the late evenings when I get my wee voucher.

Up in Edinburgh next week but I don't know if my card will be through in time.

How much is a dram in 28 Queen Street? Anyone remember?

Anything from about £4 to £30.

[ACLeith]

Been a member for a while. I much prefer The Vaults to Queen Street, for the surroundings and atmosphere.

Food is good though menu could change more than it does and is not cheap. Oh and the descriptions of the whiskies are good for a laugh!

[hibs#1]

The description to go with the bottle is alot pretentious crap

Never understood the patter that goes along with wine and whisky tasting

It either tastes nice or it doesn't to me

[Mr White]

The description to go with the bottle is alot pretentious crap

Never understood the patter that goes along with wine and whisky tasting

It either tastes nice or it doesn't to me

I've always taken the whisky society notes to be a tongue in cheek piss take of the patter you don't like... whilst still giving a bit of a comparative idea of what the particular dram is going to be like. I could easily be wrong though.

[hibs#1]

I've always taken the whisky society notes to be a tongue in cheek piss take of the patter you don't like... whilst still giving a bit of a comparative idea of what the particular dram is going to be like. I could easily be wrong though.

Well if your right then it's a big whoosh moment for me

My point still stands though

[Pretty Boy]

The description to go with the bottle is alot pretentious crap

Never understood the patter that goes along with wine and whisky tasting

It either tastes nice or it doesn't to me

It's worded from a marketing viewpoint.

'Has hints of freshly baked apple pie with lashings of custard and vanilla' reads better than 'might have a wee bit of an apple taste and the vanilla probably comes from the bourbon cask'.

It's all over descriptive nonsense of course but it's good fun imo. When I taste whisky I can pick out flavours that are blindingly obvious but there are others that I can't quite put my finger on and that's where I like the notes.

Nowt wrong with just thinking it tastes nice or otherwise either I would add.

[ACLeith]

The description to go with the bottle is alot pretentious crap

Never understood the patter that goes along with wine and whisky tasting

It either tastes nice or it doesn't to me

Agree 100%. I recall one description that mentioned it being like a "whisky flavoured condom". I decided I wouldn't try that dram!

[hibs#1]

It's worded from a marketing viewpoint.

'Has hints of freshly baked apple pie with lashings of custard and vanilla' reads better than 'might have a wee bit of an apple taste and the vanilla probably comes from the bourbon cask'.

It's all over descriptive nonsense of course but it's good fun imo. When I taste whisky I can pick out flavours that are blindingly obvious but there are others that I can't quite put my finger on and that's where I like the notes.

Nowt wrong with just thinking it tastes nice or otherwise either I would add.


Fair enough just feel some of it comes across as way ott

Each to their own I suppose

[hibs#1]

Agree 100%. I recall one description that mentioned it being like a "whisky flavoured condom". I decided I wouldn't try that dram!

Hahaha strangest and funniest one I've heard

[Colr]

Very nice.Pricing seemed a bit random compared with the bottle price but good stuff.

Must try the London place next.

[Godsahibby]

Was down at the Leith Society last night, amazing night great food and some fantastic nips.

Not s member but will be joining soon. I believe the one on Queen street is due to close for a refurbishment think I will join once that's reopened as likely to use it more often.

[Leithwalk]

Was down at the Leith Society last night, amazing night great food and some fantastic nips.

Not s member but will be joining soon. I believe the one on Queen street is due to close for a refurbishment think I will join once that's reopened as likely to use it more often.

London members room very small, and can fill up quite early in the evening, but still worth a visit. The pub downstairs (the Bleeding Heart) used to carry some SMWS stock.

The staff in all the members rooms are really well clued up, and it's worth chatting to them if you're not sure what to try. They used to do an all-day tasting school at The Vaults in Leith, which is wroth looking out for if they are still running them

[Colr]

Just tried a spot of Abhain Dearg whilst on a stopover in Ullapool. This is a new distillery on the Isle of Lewis. Only a 3 year old malt at 46% but nice with burnt biscuit and lemon flavours and a little bit oily and salty .

Looks like a good one and a new island malt - the most westerly distillery in Scotland.

Hope SMWS will head up their and pickups decent cask for us all!!

[gringojoe]

How much is a skoosh of lemonade if the nips are 30 quid?

[Pretty Boy]

Just tried a spot of Abhain Dearg whilst on a stopover in Ullapool. This is a new distillery on the Isle of Lewis. Only a 3 year old malt at 46% but nice with burnt biscuit and lemon flavours and a little bit oily and salty .

Looks like a good one and a new island malt - the most westerly distillery in Scotland.

Hope SMWS will head up their and pickups decent cask for us all!!

I tried their new make spirit and the 3 year old alongside each other and actually prefered the new make. I believe they had real cask problems early on though which could explain that.

It will be interesting to see what the 10 year old is like, due out in a couple of years. It's interesting they haven't released much between 3 and 10 years. Kilchoman had new releases out every year since they began distilling in 2005.

There's all kinds of distilleries popping up at the moment and it will be intriguing to see how they develop. IMO there has been a noticeable decline in quality over the last few years as demand has started to outstrip supply with increasingly young whisky hitting the shelves and corners being cut in the production.

[marinello59]

Just tried a spot of Abhain Dearg whilst on a stopover in Ullapool. This is a new distillery on the Isle of Lewis. Only a 3 year old malt at 46% but nice with burnt biscuit and lemon flavours and a little bit oily and salty .

Looks like a good one and a new island malt - the most westerly distillery in Scotland.

Hope SMWS will head up their and pickups decent cask for us all!!

I've had a bottle of this in my cupboard for a while now and haven't opened it yet The reviews I read hadn't been good. Fingers crossed they last the course though, there are so many new smaller distilleries opening. Islay has at least one other new one planned.

[Colr]

I tried their new make spirit and the 3 year old alongside each other and actually prefered the new make. I believe they had real cask problems early on though which could explain that.

It will be interesting to see what the 10 year old is like, due out in a couple of years. It's interesting they haven't released much between 3 and 10 years. Kilchoman had new releases out every year since they began distilling in 2005.

There's all kinds of distilleries popping up at the moment and it will be intriguing to see how they develop. IMO there has been a noticeable decline in quality over the last few years as demand has started to outstrip supply with increasingly young whisky hitting the shelves and corners being cut in the production.

Tried a Kilchoman tonight on Skye along with anCnoc 16. Latter was pretty good but is really Knockando. Kilchoman was fine but I'm only just getting into prayed whisky. Great to see these new whiskies available here.

[Hibbyradge]

Dors anyone elsr think thsy Laphroaig has changed for the worse in recent years?

It seems to have lost some of its pungency, but it could be my palate.

[Moulin Yarns]

Dors anyone elsr think thsy Laphroaig has changed for the worse in recent years?

It seems to have lost some of its pungency, but it could be my palate.


Still affects your typing, you are slurring your words :greengrin

[Colr]

My favourite of the whole trip was 21yo Speyburn but I also really liked Clynelish 14yo. Quite liked the Talisker, too.

[grunt]

My favourite of the whole trip was 21yo Speyburn but I also really liked Clynelish 14yo. Quite liked the Talisker, too.
Talisker is the bees knees.

[Colr]

Talisker is the bees knees.

I used to just go for Speyside but I'm developing a real taste for more Coastal whiskies these days.

[grunt]

I used to just go for Speyside but I'm developing a real taste for more Coastal whiskies hear days.Another coastal one I like is Caol Isla - not too dramatic, just a very nice taste.

[Colr]

Another coastal one I like is Caol Isla - not too dramatic, just a very nice taste.

I agree. I've got the 12yo.

Not whisky but if you like the ozone taste of coastal Linie Aquavit from Norway is interesting stuff. They stick it in barrels, load it on a sail ship, take it to Australia and back then they bottle it!!

Someone should try it with Whisky. I'd invest!!

[ACLeith]

Another coastal one I like is Caol Isla - not too dramatic, just a very nice taste.

Bought the Distillers version when visiting a few years ago. Excellent.

[Moulin Yarns]

I agree. I've got the 12yo.

Not whisky but if you like the ozone taste of coastal Linie Aquavit from Norway is interesting stuff. They stick it in barrels, load it on a sail ship, take it to Australia and back then they bottle it!!

Someone should try it with Whisky. I'd invest!!

Kings Ransom whisky from Edradour used to do that. No longer available but I have a bottle.

[Hibbyradge]

Still affects your typing, you are slurring your words :greengrin

:faf:

Bloody phone!

[Colr]

Kings Ransom whisky from Edradour used to do that. No longer available but I have a bottle.

All you need is sailor and enough money to buy and bottle a cask. Looks like an easy profit!!

[TRC]

After the birth of number one son i'm going to open the Dallas DHU 1979 i've got in the house!! looking forward to that

[Mr White]

I used to just go for Speyside but I'm developing a real taste for more Coastal whiskies these days.

:agree: not a fan of islays but I like springbank, old pultney, highland park and scapa but my favourite for a good while now has been oban. Beautiful whisky.

[Hibbyradge]

:agree: not a fan of islays but I like springbank, old pultney, highland park and scapa but my favourite for a good while now has been oban. Beautiful whisky.

I've taken to Oban recently and I visited the distillery a couple of months ago.

As well as a couple of bottles of the 14 yo, I bought a bottle of the 2015 distillers edition.

I've not opened it yet, but the dram I had during the visit was lovely

[Mibbes Aye]

I used to just go for Speyside but I'm developing a real taste for more Coastal whiskies these days.


:agree: not a fan of islays but I like springbank, old pultney, highland park and scapa but my favourite for a good while now has been oban. Beautiful whisky.

Old Pulteney is my go-to malt. A bit of salt and brine that makes it more sophisticated than a Speyside, but doesn't load up on the peatiness like the Islay malts.

I could never say there was one single malt that was my favourite, but if I was only allowed to keep one it would probably be OP.

Saying that, I've only had Oban once. May need to revisit it :greengrin

I'm in full agreement with the original post - the coastal whiskies are the best expression IMO. Sharp without being peat-heavy.

[Moulin Yarns]

I've taken to Oban recently and I visited the distillery a couple of months ago.

As well as a couple of bottles of the 14 yo, I bought a bottle of the 2015 distillers edition.

I've not opened it yet, but the dram I had during the visit was lovely


The Distillers Edition is good, even better when it was waiting for me when I got home on the 21st of May :greengrin

[Holmesdale Hibs]

Old Pulteney is my go-to malt. A bit of salt and brine that makes it more sophisticated than a Speyside, but doesn't load up on the peatiness like the Islay malts.

I could never say there was one single malt that was my favourite, but if I was only allowed to keep one it would probably be OP.

Saying that, I've only had Oban once. May need to revisit it :greengrin

I'm in full agreement with the original post - the coastal whiskies are the best expression IMO. Sharp without being peat-heavy.

Same with me. The 21yr is my favourite but the 12yr is a good and much cheaper substitute. Think they have a 15yr and 17yr as well but never tried them.

[snooky]

25 year old McCallans if you want to die and go to Heaven.
Aberlour and Glen Moray are also my close friends.

[marinello59]

:agree: not a fan of islays but I like springbank, old pultney, highland park and scapa but my favourite for a good while now has been oban. Beautiful whisky.

Bunnahabhain is the Islay whisky for those who don't like Islay drams.😃
It's closer to Highland Park than your traditional peaty Islay malt.

[ACLeith]

I'm a peated Islay type of guy but reading the comments about Old Pultney, Talisker, Highland Park etc I have to say I'm prepared to "force them down", especially if someone else is buying 😀

It's a bit like a debate on who the MOM was on 21st May - who cares, they are all great!

[Mr White]

Bunnahabhain is the Islay whisky for those who don't like Islay drams.😃
It's closer to Highland Park than your traditional peaty Islay malt.

Cheers I'll give that a shot :greengrin

I haven't tried too many islays tbf but I'm not a big fan of peaty/smoky drams and the only one ive tried and had another of is Bruichladdich.

[Hibbyradge]

I'm a peated Islay type of guy but reading the comments about Old Pultney, Talisker, Highland Park etc I have to say I'm prepared to "force them down", especially if someone else is buying 😀

It's a bit like a debate on who the MOM was on 21st May - who cares, they are all great!

My tastes are (were?) similar with Laphroaig being my favourite. However, as I postrd earlier, I think Laphroaig has changed for the worse.

Give Oban a try. It's quite different from what you're used to, but I love it. Honey and orange peel. Yum! 😋

[ACLeith]

My tastes are (were?) similar with Laphroaig being my favourite. However, as I postrd earlier, I think Laphroaig has changed for the worse.

Give Oban a try. It's quite different from what you're used to, but I love it. Honey and orange peel. Yum! 😋
It's 110 on the SMWS list. I'll see if they have it next time I'm there. 😀😀

[Colr]

Got a bottle of Oban on the recommendation. Lovely stuff. Still prefer the Clynelish which has more honey and salted caramel taste. Nice though.

Got some Scapa on order.

[Colr]

From the latest outturn, I am particularly liking Smoke & Mirrors. A 24year old Cali Ila which has had a second maturation in an ex white wine hogshead!!

[ACLeith]

My tastes are (were?) similar with Laphroaig being my favourite. However, as I postrd earlier, I think Laphroaig has changed for the worse.

Give Oban a try. It's quite different from what you're used to, but I love it. Honey and orange peel. Yum! 😋
I'm in a hotel bar in Bardolino on Lake Garda and they have Oban So had to take your recommendation. Very generous measures. I have to say .......... a great choice, you might have a convert here 😀

[beensaidbefore]

Anyone looking for a nice peaty number, I have a 10-12 year old bottle of tcp in the bathroom cupboard. Smells just like Laphroaig tastes and a fraction of the price to the highest bidder... 😈😀

[Colr]

Anyone looking for a nice peaty number, I have a 10-12 year old bottle of tcp in the bathroom cupboard. Smells just like Laphroaig tastes and a fraction of the price to the highest bidder... 😈😀

I quite like Laphroaig now!

[Scouse Hibee]

Jeez not being a whisky man at all I tried a small Highkand Park at my Dad's last week.........****** horrible.

[Colr]

Jeez not being a whisky man at all I tried a small Highkand Park at my Dad's last week.........****** horrible.

They use heather peat to dry the barley. I quite like it.

Looking forward to Scapa becoming available.

[grunt]

Jeez not being a whisky man at all I tried a small Highkand Park at my Dad's last week.........****** horrible.
Does this translate as, "I don't like whisky and when I tasted it last week, I didn't like it"?

:confused:

[Scouse Hibee]

Does this translate as, "I don't like whisky and when I tasted it last week, I didn't like it"?

:confused:

No it translates as not really knowing my whisky I tried one I thought might appeal.

[grunt]

No it translates as not really knowing my whisky I tried one I thought might appeal.
Sorry I was trying (failing) to be amusing.

Maybe try one of the gentler whiskies to start with? Maybe a Glenmorangie or a Macallan Glenlivet 12yo?

[Scouse Hibee]

Sorry I was trying (failing) to be amusing.

Maybe try one of the gentler whiskies to start with? Maybe a Glenmorangie or a Macallan Glenlivet 12yo?

Is Highland Park not considered to be gentle. I thought it had a smokey taste,is that right?

[Mr White]

Is Highland Park not considered to be gentle. I thought it had a smokey taste,is that right?

It's not the best one to try first imo. It's got a slight smokiness, and a definite taste of the sea. Dalwhinnie is worth a go I'd say. If you don't like a wee sip of that after its been mixed with a very small dash of water then whisky probably isn't for you. Again imo as everyone's different of course.

[grunt]

Is Highland Park not considered to be gentle. I thought it had a smokey taste,is that right?It's not one I know. Sorry. here's what the bible says.

http://www.scotchmaltwhisky.co.uk/highland-park.htm

[Mibbes Aye]

Is Highland Park not considered to be gentle. I thought it had a smokey taste,is that right?

Highland Park isn't a gentle introduction :greengrin

It's not as astringent as the full-on peaty malts but it's probably one you would progress to.

As per Mr White's post, a good starting point is a Dalwhinnie, or a smooth Speyside like Aberlour, or one of the Central Belt ones like Auchentoshan or Glenkinchie. Very small sips and don't be afraid to try adding a few drops of water (literally no more) as it opens up the flavours.

If you decide you like it then you can think about stepping it up with the coastal and Islay malts (or indeed go the other way, with some of the really rich Speysides for example)

[TRC]

I'd add craggenmore to the starter list a great dram

[Colr]

No it translates as not really knowing my whisky I tried one I thought might appeal.

10 year old Aberlour is pretty quafable

[Pretty Boy]

Tbh I've always found the idea that people need to start on a 'beginners' whisky a bit of a myth. I think people just like what they like.

I followed the same path of trying some of the quite frankly bland Speysides thinking I would develop a taste. It was only when I tried the likes of Talisker and Ardbeg that I fell in love with whisky. The peatiness, smokiness and warmth appealed far more than anything I had tasted previously. From there I was able to begin to appreciate the various whiskies from Springbank (the distillery producing by far the best whisky in Scotland at the moment), the likes of Old Pultney, Highland Park and other whiskies with brine and smoke pouring from them. I also began to appreciate the richer Speysides as opposed to the 'easy' ones I'd been pushed towards.

For someone trying to get into whisky I'd suggest buying a few miniatures from each of the regions and trying 2 or 3 at a time until you start to work out what you like. From a collection of say:

Islands - Talisker and Highland Park
Speyside - Glenfarclas and Cragganmore
Highlands - Dalwhinnie and Clynelish
Islay - Lagavulin and Ardbeg
Campbletown - Springbank and Longrow (same distillery, very different whisky)
Lowland - Glenkinchie and Bladnoch

Most people will start to find out what they like. It takes time but the 'effort' is generally enjoyable.

There used to be 3 or 4 of us from here met up and tried a few whiskies, if anyone fancied it again I'd be keen.

[Colr]

Tbh I've always found the idea that people need to start on a 'beginners' whisky a bit of a myth. I think people just like what they like.

I followed the same path of trying some of the quite frankly bland Speysides thinking I would develop a taste. It was only when I tried the likes of Talisker and Ardbeg that I fell in love with whisky. The peatiness, smokiness and warmth appealed far more than anything I had tasted previously. From there I was able to begin to appreciate the various whiskies from Springbank (the distillery producing by far the best whisky in Scotland at the moment), the likes of Old Pultney, Highland Park and other whiskies with brine and smoke pouring from them. I also began to appreciate the richer Speysides as opposed to the 'easy' ones I'd been pushed towards.

For someone trying to get into whisky I'd suggest buying a few miniatures from each of the regions and trying 2 or 3 at a time until you start to work out what you like. From a collection of say:

Islands - Talisker and Highland Park
Speyside - Glenfarclas and Cragganmore
Highlands - Dalwhinnie and Clynelish
Islay - Lagavulin and Ardbeg
Campbletown - Springbank and Longrow (same distillery, very different whisky)
Lowland - Glenkinchie and Bladnoch

Most people will start to find out what they like. It takes time but the 'effort' is generally enjoyable.

There used to be 3 or 4 of us from here met up and tried a few whiskies, if anyone fancied it again I'd be keen.


Good list of whiskies. I would not disagree with any. I also like Speyburn and Allt a Bhaine in the Speyside categories.

Old Pultney's nice in the coastal whiskies

I've taken your advice and ordered a 25year old Bladnoch!!

[Colr]

http://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/food-and-drink/whisky-expensive-what-does-it-taste-like-glenlivet-winchester-collection-vintage-1966-a7345456.html

[Pretty Boy]

http://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b07z8644

This starts next Tuesday for anyone interested. David Hayman is pretty good at these sort of shows, his tribute to Weirs Way last year was really enjoyable.

[Colr]

Worth a look.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/group/b07zk5cx

[Colr]

Just tried a scotch and green tea as is popular in China. It's actually pretty good!!

Also, coconut water (how they drink it in Brazil).

Japanese whisky is really good as a highball with ice cold soda.

[Bishop Hibee]

I wouldn't mix a malt whisky with anything other than water but have no problem mixing a blend with anything. Whisky and coke was big in Spain when I was at a wedding there a few years ago and whisky was pretty much always mixed with lemonade at family parties in the 70's and 80's.

On topic, has anybody been in to the Queen St Malt Whisky Society premises since it was done up?

[Moulin Yarns]

Had a pleasant evening with my brother at the Vaults on Thursday. I chose two whiskies from the list and my brother had a list of the distilleries. The first was a Glenlivet 9 year old 64.9% and the second a Tullibardine 16 year old 56.5% and I think I want a bottle of the Tullibardine.

[Colr]

Had a pleasant evening with my brother at the Vaults on Thursday. I chose two whiskies from the list and my brother had a list of the distilleries. The first was a Glenlivet 9 year old 64.9% and the second a Tullibardine 16 year old 56.5% and I think I want a bottle of the Tullibardine.

Is that the one which was matured in the Sauterne cask?

[Moulin Yarns]

Is that the one which was matured in the Sauterne cask?

Not sure. But it was sublime. Nectar is the best way to describe it.

[Colr]

Not sure. But it was sublime. Nectar is the best way to describe it.

I've got a bottle of Tullibardine 28.3 "Pure Indulgence"

It's very nice indeed.

[Moulin Yarns]

I've got a bottle of Tullibardine 28.3 "Pure Indulgence"

It's very nice indeed.

Seriously think I will get the bus to Blackford to get a tasting.

[Colr]

I recommend American Rye whiskey with pepsi or even Dr Pepper. Knocks JD into a cocked Stetson.

[snooky]

10 year old Aberlour is pretty quafable

:agree: It's Aberlovely :aok:

[snooky]

Is Highland Park not considered to be gentle. I thought it had a smokey taste,is that right?

My late father's favourite tipple (mind you, he had 50% Orkney blood in him).
Alas, too smokey for me. I'm a Speyside man. Each to his own, though.
Slainte!

[danhibees1875]

Tbh I've always found the idea that people need to start on a 'beginners' whisky a bit of a myth. I think people just like what they like.

I followed the same path of trying some of the quite frankly bland Speysides thinking I would develop a taste. It was only when I tried the likes of Talisker and Ardbeg that I fell in love with whisky. The peatiness, smokiness and warmth appealed far more than anything I had tasted previously. From there I was able to begin to appreciate the various whiskies from Springbank (the distillery producing by far the best whisky in Scotland at the moment), the likes of Old Pultney, Highland Park and other whiskies with brine and smoke pouring from them. I also began to appreciate the richer Speysides as opposed to the 'easy' ones I'd been pushed towards.

For someone trying to get into whisky I'd suggest buying a few miniatures from each of the regions and trying 2 or 3 at a time until you start to work out what you like. From a collection of say:

Islands - Talisker and Highland Park
Speyside - Glenfarclas and Cragganmore
Highlands - Dalwhinnie and Clynelish
Islay - Lagavulin and Ardbeg
Campbletown - Springbank and Longrow (same distillery, very different whisky)
Lowland - Glenkinchie and Bladnoch

Most people will start to find out what they like. It takes time but the 'effort' is generally enjoyable.

There used to be 3 or 4 of us from here met up and tried a few whiskies, if anyone fancied it again I'd be keen.

I've made it a new year's resolution to get into whisky (I think I slightly missed the point of resolutions with this one - so a second to run a marathon was added), and it's interesting that you mention that myth of spayside for bigenners as that was the general advice I'd been getting.

I like the idea with the miniatures though and think I'll go for that approach. Thanks for the list of recommendations for each area!

I've done a couple distillery tours and found them very interesting, being able to really enjoy the tasting session at the end would be good. :greengrin

Thanks! :aok:

[WeeRussell]

Jeez not being a whisky man at all I tried a small Highkand Park at my Dad's last week.........****** horrible.

I would agree with you Scouse if that was the only whisky I tried. Really not one for the smokey/Peaty ones at all. However, I've recently learned there are a few that I REALLY like and like the more I drink them.

Snooky mentioned Aberlour and Macallan's which are two very agreeable ones in my opinion.

Glenlivet is my go to safe whisky just now - but I was recently introduced to a 12 year old Ben Riach (sherry cask) and it is possibly my favourite. Lovely it was.

I would recommend trying any of the above and sip away (even if it's after a few pints when moving onto 'nip stage')

Also don't be put-off if you don't love it the first few tastes. I don't think anyone likes whisky the first time they drink it!

[WeeRussell]

Tin-hat and ready to be shot-down/laughed at.

But as far as your cheap/supermarket budget drinks goes - I can't half tolerate Grant's Whisky :greengrin

Genuinely.

(this came from drinking it after a few beers at cheltenham without knowing what the whisky was... really enjoying it I thought I'd ask what it was, expecting some fancy whisky to take note of).. clueless bartender turned round the bottle and revealed it was 'Grant's' :greengrin

Turned the racing bender into a blender :wink:

[Pete]

Tin-hat and ready to be shot-down/laughed at.

But as far as your cheap/supermarket budget drinks goes - I can't half tolerate Grant's Whisky :greengrin

Genuinely.

(this came from drinking it after a few beers at cheltenham without knowing what the whisky was... really enjoying it I thought I'd ask what it was, expecting some fancy whisky to take note of).. clueless bartender turned round the bottle and revealed it was 'Grant's' :greengrin

Turned the racing bender into a blender :wink:

If Grant's does it for you then there's no need to justify yourself. I don't mind it either and I recommend the ale and sherry cask finish editions...very nice with a splash of water (none of this mixing nonsense)

[Pete]

Tbh I've always found the idea that people need to start on a 'beginners' whisky a bit of a myth. I think people just like what they like.

I followed the same path of trying some of the quite frankly bland Speysides thinking I would develop a taste. It was only when I tried the likes of Talisker and Ardbeg that I fell in love with whisky. The peatiness, smokiness and warmth appealed far more than anything I had tasted previously. From there I was able to begin to appreciate the various whiskies from Springbank (the distillery producing by far the best whisky in Scotland at the moment), the likes of Old Pultney, Highland Park and other whiskies with brine and smoke pouring from them. I also began to appreciate the richer Speysides as opposed to the 'easy' ones I'd been pushed towards.

For someone trying to get into whisky I'd suggest buying a few miniatures from each of the regions and trying 2 or 3 at a time until you start to work out what you like. From a collection of say:

Islands - Talisker and Highland Park
Speyside - Glenfarclas and Cragganmore
Highlands - Dalwhinnie and Clynelish
Islay - Lagavulin and Ardbeg
Campbletown - Springbank and Longrow (same distillery, very different whisky)
Lowland - Glenkinchie and Bladnoch

Most people will start to find out what they like. It takes time but the 'effort' is generally enjoyable.

There used to be 3 or 4 of us from here met up and tried a few whiskies, if anyone fancied it again I'd be keen.

Agree with this. Single tasting sessions that cover most of the spectrum can help you understand the contrasts.

I'd leave something like Johnnie Walker double black until the end though. I've just sampled the bottle my dad bought me (his favourite dram) and flavour wise, it's big. :eek:

[TRC]

The snobbery that surrounds malts is the thing that does my nut in. When I first moved to Sweden I did whisky tasting nights in a Hotel and one month I did some blended whiskies, had tons of people telling me it wasn't proper whisky. The funny thing is ask any distiller in the world and they'll tell you that making a blend is a far more difficult process than making a malt. It's the nature of the beast if the blend doesn't taste how it has done for the last forty years, then the old boy down the pub who has drunk the same whisky for thirty years will taste it straight away, with a malt there is a little more leeway.

[WeeRussell]

If Grant's does it for you then there's no need to justify yourself. I don't mind it either and I recommend the ale and sherry cask finish editions...very nice with a splash of water (none of this mixing nonsense)

:aok: As I said in previous post I really liked the sherry edition of Benriach I was drinking, so will look out for that!

I've become a very much 'as it comes' man with the whisky though. Only ever used to put ice in it (Macallan's with a block of ice back when I was 'forced' to have a whisky!) but recently it's always been neat for me.

Do appreciate it's 'meant' to change depending on what whisky you drink though.

Agree on the no mixer part though (although lemonade and whisky was the first night I actually "liked" whisky.. drank that many that I enjoyed it by the end :greengrin)

[Pretty Boy]

The snobbery that surrounds malts is the thing that does my nut in. When I first moved to Sweden I did whisky tasting nights in a Hotel and one month I did some blended whiskies, had tons of people telling me it wasn't proper whisky. The funny thing is ask any distiller in the world and they'll tell you that making a blend is a far more difficult process than making a malt. It's the nature of the beast if the blend doesn't taste how it has done for the last forty years, then the old boy down the pub who has drunk the same whisky for thirty years will taste it straight away, with a malt there is a little more leeway.

All malt whisky, with the exception of single cask, is blended anyway.

A distillery doesn't open a cask on the exact date it was filled 10, 15 or 20 years later. They take a range of casks and blend them to achieve a consistency of flavour. Single malt simply refers to the fact a whisky is made from malted barley at a single distillery and the age statement refers to the youngest whisky used.

Re people getting sniffy about blends. Not something I understand really. There are many good blends out there and, increasingly in recent years, a lot of crap malts.

[Hibee87]

I grew up drinking the usual bourbons jack d, southern comfort etc. I think i drank enough jack d over the years that I actually don't like it that much any more, and i really dont like coke at all!

I found some of the better bourbons bullitt, monkey shoulder etc mixed with dr pepper to be a very nice drink.

Any way, I do like malts and decided like someone else this year I was going to try getting into it more so the mrs got me a bottle of Ardmore legacy and I found it to be a nice smoth drink. The others I have tried tended to have a real stronger peaty taske like laphroig (sp?) and I enjoyed them far more.
Luckily my mate works in a whiskey shop up ythe royal mile and does all the tours etc so im planning on meeting up with him to go for tasters. In my youth i thought whiskey tasted like whiskey and wasnt keen but now I do notice the difference and appreciate it more so with a bit of his help on which ones I like I hope to learn a bit more about what ones to go for and start to stock up my collection. My only problem is the grief I get for actually drinking it, she gets me a bottle then moans that ive drank it over a couple of weekends, go figure eh.

[snooky]

I grew up drinking the usual bourbons jack d, southern comfort etc. I think i drank enough jack d over the years that I actually don't like it that much any more, and i really dont like coke at all!

I found some of the better bourbons bullitt, monkey shoulder etc mixed with dr pepper to be a very nice drink.

Any way, I do like malts and decided like someone else this year I was going to try getting into it more so the mrs got me a bottle of Ardmore legacy and I found it to be a nice smoth drink. The others I have tried tended to have a real stronger peaty taske like laphroig (sp?) and I enjoyed them far more.
Luckily my mate works in a whiskey shop up ythe royal mile and does all the tours etc so im planning on meeting up with him to go for tasters. In my youth i thought whiskey tasted like whiskey and wasnt keen but now I do notice the difference and appreciate it more so with a bit of his help on which ones I like I hope to learn a bit more about what ones to go for and start to stock up my collection. My only problem is the grief I get for actually drinking it, she gets me a bottle then moans that ive drank it over a couple of weekends, go figure eh.

Oh dear, and you were doing so well too. :wink:

[Hibee87]

Oh dear, and you were doing so well too. :wink:I wish I could claim dyslexia as well, but really spelling is just not my thing :thumbsup:

[TRC]

All malt whisky, with the exception of single cask, is blended anyway.

A distillery doesn't open a cask on the exact date it was filled 10, 15 or 20 years later. They take a range of casks and blend them to achieve a consistency of flavour. Single malt simply refers to the fact a whisky is made from malted barley at a single distillery and the age statement refers to the youngest whisky used.

Re people getting sniffy about blends. Not something I understand really. There are many good blends out there and, increasingly in recent years, a lot of crap malts.

Monkeys shoulder being one of my favourite whiskies, but I was just highlighting the struggle of trying to run something like a whisky night when people don't want to hear what's being said. Drive me nuts and cause the place was a hotel bar you've to be extra nice to customers which ig I'm brutally honest after working in the trade for over 15 years gets a bit tiresome.

[hibsbollah]

I've stayed on Islay quite a few times now and despite it being my favourite island I'm not a big fan of the heavy peat and smoke. Laphroaig in particular I avoid, I just get the smell and taste of antiseptic from it. This year we went to Bruichladdich distillery and got talking to the guy about heavy peat. He brought out the Octomore, which he claimed as the most heavily peated malt in existence if you measure by parts per thousand (or somesuch dodgy chemical science). I wasn't optimistic but it was stupendous, I can't even put into words how good it was, massive complex flavours. I believe it was £125 or thereabouts but id happily buy a dram or two if I found it in a bar somewhere.

All of which goes to show that the great thing about whisky is it always has the ability to surprise you :greengrin

[snooky]

I've stayed on Islay quite a few times now and despite it being my favourite island I'm not a big fan of the heavy peat and smoke. Laphroaig in particular I avoid, I just get the smell and taste of antiseptic from it. This year we went to Bruichladdich distillery and got talking to the guy about heavy peat. He brought out the Octomore, which he claimed as the most heavily peated malt in existence if you measure by parts per thousand (or somesuch dodgy chemical science). I wasn't optimistic but it was stupendous, I can't even put into words how good it was, massive complex flavours. I believe it was £125 or thereabouts but id happily buy a dram or two if I found it in a bar somewhere.

All of which goes to show that the great thing about whisky is it always has the ability to surprise you :greengrin

That price did for a start, HB. :greengrin

[hibsbollah]

That price did for a start, HB. :greengrin

Just to clarify, it was that price for a bottle, not a nip :greengrin

[Colr]

The snobbery that surrounds malts is the thing that does my nut in. When I first moved to Sweden I did whisky tasting nights in a Hotel and one month I did some blended whiskies, had tons of people telling me it wasn't proper whisky. The funny thing is ask any distiller in the world and they'll tell you that making a blend is a far more difficult process than making a malt. It's the nature of the beast if the blend doesn't taste how it has done for the last forty years, then the old boy down the pub who has drunk the same whisky for thirty years will taste it straight away, with a malt there is a little more leeway.

Agree with this. The snobbery comes from folk who have limited knowledge of whisky IMO.

Some of the blends are amazing. Great King Street is one of my favourites ( esp. Artists Blend). Cutty Sark is very good but not so easy to find.

[Pete]

:aok: As I said in previous post I really liked the sherry edition of Benriach I was drinking, so will look out for that!

I've become a very much 'as it comes' man with the whisky though. Only ever used to put ice in it (Macallan's with a block of ice back when I was 'forced' to have a whisky!) but recently it's always been neat for me.

Do appreciate it's 'meant' to change depending on what whisky you drink though.

Agree on the no mixer part though (although lemonade and whisky was the first night I actually "liked" whisky.. drank that many that I enjoyed it by the end :greengrin)

I was in Asda today looking for Islay miniatures to have a wee tasting session with as I've only ever tried about one or two of them. Coincidently, I saw a bottle of Bowmore sherry cask for £15 and decided to get that instead...nothing to lose for that price.


Also, on the subject of quality blends, they were selling one called Tasgall and it came in 25 and 30 year variants, priced at £20 and £25 respectively. Ive never heard of it before and the complexities will probably be lost on a beginner such as myself but it might be of use to someone. Awful cheap for whisky that age.

[Colr]

BTW you can get whisky on Amazon. This helps if some bottles are a little hard to come by (I've bought Cutty Sark - great in a club soda high ball - and Clynelish 14yo - my favourite malt).

Another good online source in Whisky Exchange.

https://www.thewhiskyexchange.com/

If you're ever down in the Big Smoke they have a fantastic shop near Charing Cross with a hreat range of Scottish and world whiskies. Waitrose are good for Japanese but seldom have Kukubin which is the absolute best and my favourite blend of all. Its my go to drink with an ice cold club soda!! ****** lovely. .

[Pretty Boy]

I've stayed on Islay quite a few times now and despite it being my favourite island I'm not a big fan of the heavy peat and smoke. Laphroaig in particular I avoid, I just get the smell and taste of antiseptic from it. This year we went to Bruichladdich distillery and got talking to the guy about heavy peat. He brought out the Octomore, which he claimed as the most heavily peated malt in existence if you measure by parts per thousand (or somesuch dodgy chemical science). I wasn't optimistic but it was stupendous, I can't even put into words how good it was, massive complex flavours. I believe it was £125 or thereabouts but id happily buy a dram or two if I found it in a bar somewhere.

All of which goes to show that the great thing about whisky is it always has the ability to surprise you :greengrin

The Guildford regularly has a bottle of Octomore behind the bar. About £6.50 a nip iirc.

Think both Whiski and Whiski Rooms have it as well but they are aimed at tourists and the prices reflect that.

[hibsbollah]

The Guildford regularly has a bottle of Octomore behind the bar. About £6.50 a nip iirc.

Think both Whiski and Whiski Rooms have it as well but they are aimed at tourists and the prices reflect that.

Nice one. I'm out with a few whisky loving jakeballs tonight so I might end up there.

[Captain Trips]

Brand new boxed Royal Salute Green flagon 70cl comes in velvet bag £80. Let me know if interested.

[Colr]

I've stayed on Islay quite a few times now and despite it being my favourite island I'm not a big fan of the heavy peat and smoke. Laphroaig in particular I avoid, I just get the smell and taste of antiseptic from it. This year we went to Bruichladdich distillery and got talking to the guy about heavy peat. He brought out the Octomore, which he claimed as the most heavily peated malt in existence if you measure by parts per thousand (or somesuch dodgy chemical science). I wasn't optimistic but it was stupendous, I can't even put into words how good it was, massive complex flavours. I believe it was £125 or thereabouts but id happily buy a dram or two if I found it in a bar somewhere.

All of which goes to show that the great thing about whisky is it always has the ability to surprise you :greengrin

I'll give that a go!!

Laphroaig is a bit medicinal in its smokey flavour. Ardbeg is technically more smokey but doesn't task quite so much of iodine!!

Some of the peated SMWS bottles are well worth a try - nice on a cold winters evening round the fire (or the radiator in the case of the London venue)!

[Colr]

Italian whisky.

Very stylish building!

http://www.puni.com/#/

[Holmesdale Hibs]

My wife took me to the Deanston distillery just outside Doune a few days ago as a second wedding anniversary present (it's in an old cotton mill). Well worth the trip up from Edinburgh, its and excellent tour and there's a nice wee cafe there for some lunch. The 12yr is good but I preferred the Virgin Oak which is very reasonable at about £39 a bottle. The tasting also includes the 18yr which is also alright and quite different to the 12.

[Colr]

https://www.theguardian.com/science/2017/aug/17/whisky-and-water-galore-scientists-conclude-dilution-enhances-flavour

[Colr]

Anyone had SMWS blended that's just been brought out?

[Captain Trips]

I am in process of sorting out my collection as I work for one of the big companies.

I have a nice bottle of Glenlivit Nadurra Peated 61‰ going boxed 75cl for £50.

[Moulin Yarns]

I have a bottle of Aberlour 1964 25YO. bottle number 05378 of 10,000 which 'might' be opened when I retire. or maybe not. https://www.thewhiskyexchange.com/p/151/aberlour-1964-25-year-old

[Captain Trips]

I have a bottle of Aberlour 1964 25YO. bottle number 05378 of 10,000 which 'might' be opened when I retire. or maybe not. https://www.thewhiskyexchange.com/p/151/aberlour-1964-25-year-old

Keep it.

[Moulin Yarns]

Keep it.

Open to offers

[Colr]

I have a bottle of Aberlour 1964 25YO. bottle number 05378 of 10,000 which 'might' be opened when I retire. or maybe not. https://www.thewhiskyexchange.com/p/151/aberlour-1964-25-year-old

When did you buy it?

[GlesgaeHibby]

I've stayed on Islay quite a few times now and despite it being my favourite island I'm not a big fan of the heavy peat and smoke. Laphroaig in particular I avoid, I just get the smell and taste of antiseptic from it. This year we went to Bruichladdich distillery and got talking to the guy about heavy peat. He brought out the Octomore, which he claimed as the most heavily peated malt in existence if you measure by parts per thousand (or somesuch dodgy chemical science). I wasn't optimistic but it was stupendous, I can't even put into words how good it was, massive complex flavours. I believe it was £125 or thereabouts but id happily buy a dram or two if I found it in a bar somewhere.

All of which goes to show that the great thing about whisky is it always has the ability to surprise you :greengrin

Was over on Islay a couple of weekends back and tried the Octomore. Like yourself, I was pleasantly surprised by it as I'm not a fan of Ardebg/Laphroaig.

Bowmore 15 still a real favourite though!

[Pretty Boy]

Off to Islay again in 3 weeks. I daresay a few whiskies will be enjoyed in between seal watching in Portnhaven and looking for otters at Bunnahabhain. Planning on finally visiting Jura distillery as well.

[Moulin Yarns]

When did you buy it?

Who said anything about buying it. My wife used to work for the company and it was given to her.

[snooky]

I have a bottle of Aberlour 1964 25YO. bottle number 05378 of 10,000 which 'might' be opened when I retire. or maybe not. https://www.thewhiskyexchange.com/p/151/aberlour-1964-25-year-old

Open it and have it 50/50 with lemonade.

:troll: :wink:

[Colr]

Who said anything about buying it. My wife used to work for the company and it was given to her.

Any idea how much its gone up in value?

[hibsbollah]

Off to Islay again in 3 weeks. I daresay a few whiskies will be enjoyed in between seal watching in Portnhaven and looking for otters at Bunnahabhain. Planning on finally visiting Jura distillery as well.

Enjoy Bunnahabbhain, we saw a pair of otters at the beach 100 yds from the distillery last year. The distillery is about to be 'improved' with a multi million visitor centre complex so it's your last chance to see it in its current 'post apocalyptic' state :greengrin

The A82 is a shocking state at the moment on the way to the ferry landing so watch out for potholes that you could disappear into!

[grunt]

Off to Islay again in 3 weeks. I daresay a few whiskies will be enjoyed in between seal watching in Portnhaven and looking for otters at Bunnahabhain. Planning on finally visiting Jura distillery as well.Suggest Saligo Bay if looking for a peaceful beach walk, and Caol Ila for a fine whisky selection. Wish i was going back to Islay.

[Mibbes Aye]

Open it and have it 50/50 with lemonade.

:troll: :wink:

:rolleyes:

Pepsi Max with an Aberlour :agree:

[snooky]

:rolleyes:

Pepsi Max with an Aberlour :agree:

I hope, like me, you're joking. :pray:

[Mibbes Aye]

I hope, like me, you're joking. :pray:

I obviously put a slice of lemon in :agree:

:greengrin

[Moulin Yarns]

Open it and have it 50/50 with lemonade.

:troll: :wink:

Neat or a dash of spring water. Nothing else. Promise

[Colr]

Neat or a dash of spring water. Nothing else. Promise

QED

http://uk.businessinsider.com/why-add-water-to-whiskey-2017-9?r=US&IR=T

[Colr]

:rolleyes:

Pepsi Max with an Aberlour :agree:

Rye whiskey’s not bad with coke.

[Scouse Hibee]

Rye whiskey’s not bad with coke.

Coke in any drink just over powers it in my opinion.

[snooky]

Coke in any drink just over powers it in my opinion.

Don't like coke. It gets up my nose. :wink:

[Colr]

Coke in any drink just over powers it in my opinion.

Usually but rye cuts through the taste. I’ve had it with Dr Pepper as well and that’s OK.

Bullitt Rye is good with coke.

Bit off topic (maybe needs another thread) but red wine and coke is popular in the Basque country of Northern Spain.

Its called a kalimotxo. Quite refreshing in the heat.

[danhibees1875]

I've made it a new year's resolution to get into whisky (I think I slightly missed the point of resolutions with this one - so a second to run a marathon was added), and it's interesting that you mention that myth of spayside for bigenners as that was the general advice I'd been getting.

I like the idea with the miniatures though and think I'll go for that approach. Thanks for the list of recommendations for each area!

I've done a couple distillery tours and found them very interesting, being able to really enjoy the tasting session at the end would be good. :greengrin

Thanks! :aok:

To update on the above new year's resolution - I got into whisky (and also ran a marathon).

I've got a wee collection of standard whiskies going (glenmorange, Talisker, Glenrothes, ardberg) but I'm on the hunt this year for a special occasion whisky. Something a cut above those that I wouldn't find in a lot of pubs etc.

I'd prefer the chance to sample it though before committing to a bottle.

Any suggestions from the .net experts?

[Hibbyradge]

Open it and have it 50/50 with lemonade.

:troll: :wink:

I'd use coke as it gives you a caffeine hit into the bargain.

[Hibbyradge]

To update on the above new year's resolution - I got into whisky (and also ran a marathon).

I've got a wee collection of standard whiskies going (glenmorange, Talisker, Glenrothes, ardberg) but I'm on the hunt this year for a special occasion whisky. Something a cut above those that I wouldn't find in a lot of pubs etc.

I'd prefer the chance to sample it though before committing to a bottle.

Any suggestions from the .net experts?

Where to start?

You'll get as many different suggestions as there are folk on this thread!

However, how much do you want to spend?

[danhibees1875]

Where to start?

You'll get as many different suggestions as there are folk on this thread!

However, how much do you want to spend?

Good point! That was pretty vague and open to opinion.
I guess I should rephrase as what people would consider to be their preference for a nice whisky and I can consider/try from there.

Probably looking within the £80-150 bracket. Not the really exclusive stuff. Potentially a bit higher if it was something I could try first at a bar and then buy in the knowledge that I'm a fan.

[Colr]

Good point! That was pretty vague and open to opinion.
I guess I should rephrase as what people would consider to be their preference for a nice whisky and I can consider/try from there.

Probably looking within the £80-150 bracket. Not the really exclusive stuff. Potentially a bit higher if it was something I could try first at a bar and then buy in the knowledge that I'm a fan.

Have a look on the SMWS site. Some of the whiskies finished in wine barrels are interesting.

Alternatively, Cadenhead do some good single cask. Allt-a-Bhainne being one that I enjoyed.

Off the shelf, I had a great bottle of Bladnoch a while back.

[hibsbollah]

Good point! That was pretty vague and open to opinion.
I guess I should rephrase as what people would consider to be their preference for a nice whisky and I can consider/try from there.

Probably looking within the £80-150 bracket. Not the really exclusive stuff. Potentially a bit higher if it was something I could try first at a bar and then buy in the knowledge that I'm a fan.

I mentioned it earlier in the thread but the Bruichladdich Octomore is in that bracket and is very special. But all the distilleries do various special bottlings, so there are probably a couple of thousand whiskies you could choose from, all probably equally fantastic :greengrin. My grandad used to say malt whiskies aren't like wine, there are no 'bad' ones.

[Pretty Boy]

Good point! That was pretty vague and open to opinion.
I guess I should rephrase as what people would consider to be their preference for a nice whisky and I can consider/try from there.

Probably looking within the £80-150 bracket. Not the really exclusive stuff. Potentially a bit higher if it was something I could try first at a bar and then buy in the knowledge that I'm a fan.

I bought this as a present to myself when my daughter was born:

https://www.whiskyshop.com/old-malt-cask-bunnahabhain-26-year-old

It’s a stunning Whisky. I find Old Malt Cask to be consistently good quality and they offer something a bit different. Bunnahabhain is a bit different from the south Islay big hitters but it’s an interesting whisky and the regular bottling are readily available to give you a rough idea of what you are getting from a more expensive bottle.

[danhibees1875]

Thanks for the replies guys! :thumbsup:

I'll have a look into the ones suggested! The link to the bunnahabhain above looks interesting and sounds up my street (on the sweeter side). I'll try to look out a bottle in a pub somewhere to get a taste for it. Have you came across it in Edinburgh at all PB?

[lyonhibs]

Thanks for the replies guys! :thumbsup:

I'll have a look into the ones suggested! The link to the bunnahabhain above looks interesting and sounds up my street (on the sweeter side). I'll try to look out a bottle in a pub somewhere to get a taste for it. Have you came across it in Edinburgh at all PB?

As much as it's a tourist trap, Whiski on the Royal Mile will have it. In fact, I'd imagine there'll be a few "old man" boozers (aka the ones I go into these days) with it.

Try Teuchters on William Street, though beware the Ring of Fire game. Get good at that and you'll taste plenty of whisky but oh the hangovers!!!

[Pretty Boy]

Thanks for the replies guys! :thumbsup:

I'll have a look into the ones suggested! The link to the bunnahabhain above looks interesting and sounds up my street (on the sweeter side). I'll try to look out a bottle in a pub somewhere to get a taste for it. Have you came across it in Edinburgh at all PB?

The Bow Bar had a bottle a while back, that's where I tried it and decided I wanted a bottle. Not sure if it will still be available. Their whisky selection is excellent, including a Port Ellen at £250 a nip, and the staff are knowledgable and friendly into the bargain.

[Lancs Harp]

The Bow Bar had a bottle a while back, that's where I tried it and decided I wanted a bottle. Not sure if it will still be available. Their whisky selection is excellent, including a Port Ellen at £250 a nip, and the staff are knowledgable and friendly into the bargain.

The Bow is excellent. I was in there last year when a rep was round giving them a tutorial and tasting. fully attentive crew, I spent a very interesting hour or so earwigging over a couple of pints. Top bar top service.

[danhibees1875]

Whiski, teuchters, and the bow - cheers guys! :aok:

I was looking forward to the bow being on the way to Easter road from my work - not to be tonight!

Lyonhibs - what is the ring of fire game? :confused:

[Moulin Yarns]

Whiski, teuchters, and the bow - cheers guys! :aok:

I was looking forward to the bow being on the way to Easter road from my work - not to be tonight!

Lyonhibs - what is the ring of fire game? :confused:

Teuchters, and Teuchters Landing in Leith have a hoopla that you can through at the whisky display, and get a nip of what you manage to get the hoop over. I guess that is what he means.

[Mr White]

Teuchters, and Teuchters Landing in Leith have a hoopla that you can through at the whisky display, and get a nip of what you manage to get the hoop over. I guess that is what he means.

It is or at least used to be called "the hoop of destiny" at teuchter's landing. You get a nip of Monkey Shoulder if you fail to land on a bottle.

[Jack]

Anyone going to the The Whisky Stramash at The Surgeons’ Hall?

19/20 May?

I'm not a whisky but was given a voucher by one of my kids. There's 5 of us going altogether.

From their website http://www.thewhiskystramash.com/2018/?

Brands & Companies last year included: Pernod Ricard with Chivas and Glenlivet, Scapa, Longmorn (to name a few), Gordon & MacPhail with lots including Benromach, Douglas Laing and their regional blended malts, BenRiach, GlenDronach, Glenglassaugh, Bunnahabhain, Deanston, Tobermory, Whyte & Mackay with Jura, The Shackleton and Dalmore, Weymss Malts, R & B distillers,The Lost Distillery Company, Glen Moray & Label 5, Loch Lomond and Glen Scotia, Hi Spirits with lots of bourbon including White Dog (mash 1), Benchmark, Buffalo Trace, Eagle Rare 10yr, Stagg Jnr, 1792, EH Taylor, Murray McDavid Independent Bottler, Robert Graham Independent Bottler, Fraiser Liqueur, Glenfiddich, Grant's Blended Whisky, West Cork Distillers, Dictador Rum.

Tickets are now on sale with a limited Early Bird Offer!
2 tickets @ £40 with Glencairns and tour vouchers for either the Fettercairn or Jura distilleries.

[edinburghhibee]

I’m looking for a Ardbeg lord of the isles box if anyone knows where I can get hold on one. There was one on eBay last week which I missed out on and was gutted


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Pretty Boy]

I’m looking for a Ardbeg lord of the isles box if anyone knows where I can get hold on one. There was one on eBay last week which I missed out on and was gutted


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

https://www.houseofwhiskyscotland.com/product/ardbeg-lord-of-the-isles-25-year-old/

1 left in stock apparently.

[Colr]

SMWS have opened another London bar in Devenshire Square EC2.

[Pretty Boy]

I was at the Lagavulin distillery today and tried the 2017 distillery exclusive bottling. It was an absolute cracker and I ended up forking out £100 for a bottle. It was only spoiled by some thick twat telling me a 'true Scot' would never add water to whisky. Trying to taste 54.1% spirit with no water seems far dafter than adding a splash but each to their own. Tried the latest Ardbeg limited edition, Grooves, like a few recent Ardbegs it wasn't great; better than the hideous Ardbog but that's a low bar. The 10 year old is still the flagship for them imo. For a distillery that was almost untouchable in terms of quality 5 years ago something has gone wrong, the Uigedail in particular is unrecognisable from what it was.

Had a wee poke about the new Ardnahoe distillery. They are almost there with building and expect to be starting production by this summer. Work is due to start any day at Port Ellen and they plan to be back in production by 2020, work has already started on the stills and they are attempting to get them as close to the originals as possible.

Finally tried the Bunnhabhain Toiteach. An unusually heavily peated whisky for them and it was very enjoyable although I can see why it splits opinion. Very light bodied, loads of iodine to smell and the taste is very spicy; it's almost like popping a whole peppercorn in your mouth.

All in all another successful trip to Islay and already aiming to be back in the summer.

[Hibbyradge]

I was at the Lagavulin distillery today and tried the 2017 distillery exclusive bottling. It was an absolute cracker and I ended up forking out £100 for a bottle. It was only spoiled by some thick twat telling me a 'true Scot' would never add water to whisky. Trying to taste 54.1% spirit with no water seems far dafter than adding a splash but each to their own. Tried the latest Ardbeg limited edition, Grooves, like a few recent Ardbegs it wasn't great; better than the hideous Ardbog but that's a low bar. The 10 year old is still the flagship for them imo. For a distillery that was almost untouchable in terms of quality 5 years ago something has gone wrong, the Uigedail in particular is unrecognisable from what it was.

Had a wee poke about the new Ardnahoe distillery. They are almost there with building and expect to be starting production by this summer. Work is due to start any day at Port Ellen and they plan to be back in production by 2020, work has already started on the stills and they are attempting to get them as close to the originals as possible.

Finally tried the Bunnhabhain Toiteach. An unusually heavily peated whisky for them and it was very enjoyable although I can see why it splits opinion. Very light bodied, loads of iodine to smell and the taste is very spicy; it's almost like popping a whole peppercorn in your mouth.

All in all another successful trip to Islay and already aiming to be back in the summer.

When do you leave the island?

You've tempted me with the Lagavulin.

Edit: I'm going to my kip now so if you see this and are going to be at the distillery, I'd definitely like a bottle and could pay you for it on Tuesday when I'm up for the game.

[hibsbollah]

I was at the Lagavulin distillery today and tried the 2017 distillery exclusive bottling. It was an absolute cracker and I ended up forking out £100 for a bottle. It was only spoiled by some thick twat telling me a 'true Scot' would never add water to whisky. Trying to taste 54.1% spirit with no water seems far dafter than adding a splash but each to their own. Tried the latest Ardbeg limited edition, Grooves, like a few recent Ardbegs it wasn't great; better than the hideous Ardbog but that's a low bar. The 10 year old is still the flagship for them imo. For a distillery that was almost untouchable in terms of quality 5 years ago something has gone wrong, the Uigedail in particular is unrecognisable from what it was.

Had a wee poke about the new Ardnahoe distillery. They are almost there with building and expect to be starting production by this summer. Work is due to start any day at Port Ellen and they plan to be back in production by 2020, work has already started on the stills and they are attempting to get them as close to the originals as possible.

Finally tried the Bunnhabhain Toiteach. An unusually heavily peated whisky for them and it was very enjoyable although I can see why it splits opinion. Very light bodied, loads of iodine to smell and the taste is very spicy; it's almost like popping a whole peppercorn in your mouth.

All in all another successful trip to Islay and already aiming to be back in the summer.

Sounds fantastic. Were the roads still in a state? The locals are in rebellious mood apparently...possibly time for the distilleries to make some serious contribution to the islands infrastructure?

Im old enough to have had a dram or two of the original Port Ellen so it'll be interesting to see what the new iteration looks like :aok:

[Hibbyradge]

:thumbsup:

[danhibees1875]

Has anyone tried the Glenmorangie 18YO or Signet? My "go to" whisky is the Original Glenmorangie (and the Quinta Ruban is also nice) and was thinking about getting one of these. The original is available in Tesco for £26 at the moment for those who like it!

I got to try Old Particular's Glendullan 15Y the other day. It was quite nice - but it didn't blow me away in the way I was looking for with a £100 bottle.

[Pretty Boy]

Sounds fantastic. Were the roads still in a state? The locals are in rebellious mood apparently...possibly time for the distilleries to make some serious contribution to the islands infrastructure?

Im old enough to have had a dram or two of the original Port Ellen so it'll be interesting to see what the new iteration looks like :aok:

The roads weren't great, particularly a small stretch between Bridgend and Bowmore. I was chatting to a guy from Ballygrant in the Lochindaal Hotel the other night and he was tearing into Bunnhabhain who will be knocking down several houses for their new 'visitor experience' with no plans to replace them. Much like anywhere there is a shortage of affordable housing and he said there's a belief they could be renovated back to a habitable standard but the distillery hasn't paid much more than lip service to the idea.

I'm wary of taking this into a topic well covered elsewhere but I noticed a lot of little blue and yellow flags when out and about stating that the area, project etc had been funded by the EU rural development fund. In less than a year you have to wonder where the money is coming from to close the potential funding gap.

[danhibees1875]

The roads weren't great, particularly a small stretch between Bridgend and Bowmore. I was chatting to a guy from Ballygrant in the Lochindaal Hotel the other night and he was tearing into Bunnhabhain who will be knocking down several houses for their new 'visitor experience' with no plans to replace them. Much like anywhere there is a shortage of affordable housing and he said there's a belief they could be renovated back to a habitable standard but the distillery hasn't paid much more than lip service to the idea.

I'm wary of taking this into a topic well covered elsewhere but I noticed a lot of little blue and yellow flags when out and about stating that the area, project etc had been funded by the EU rural development fund. In less than a year you have to wonder where the money is coming from to close the potential funding gap.

Expensive PFI projects for the private sector to hoover up in the absence of EU funding would be my guess.

[overdrive]

I was at the Lagavulin distillery today and tried the 2017 distillery exclusive bottling. It was an absolute cracker and I ended up forking out £100 for a bottle. It was only spoiled by some thick twat telling me a 'true Scot' would never add water to whisky. Trying to taste 54.1% spirit with no water seems far dafter than adding a splash but each to their own. Tried the latest Ardbeg limited edition, Grooves, like a few recent Ardbegs it wasn't great; better than the hideous Ardbog but that's a low bar. The 10 year old is still the flagship for them imo. For a distillery that was almost untouchable in terms of quality 5 years ago something has gone wrong, the Uigedail in particular is unrecognisable from what it was.

Had a wee poke about the new Ardnahoe distillery. They are almost there with building and expect to be starting production by this summer. Work is due to start any day at Port Ellen and they plan to be back in production by 2020, work has already started on the stills and they are attempting to get them as close to the originals as possible.

Finally tried the Bunnhabhain Toiteach. An unusually heavily peated whisky for them and it was very enjoyable although I can see why it splits opinion. Very light bodied, loads of iodine to smell and the taste is very spicy; it's almost like popping a whole peppercorn in your mouth.

All in all another successful trip to Islay and already aiming to be back in the summer.

Not been to Islay before but hoping to take a wee trip once Ardnahoe is open. We know the family that owns it... me and my wife met through the daughter.

[hibsbollah]

The roads weren't great, particularly a small stretch between Bridgend and Bowmore. I was chatting to a guy from Ballygrant in the Lochindaal Hotel the other night and he was tearing into Bunnhabhain who will be knocking down several houses for their new 'visitor experience' with no plans to replace them. Much like anywhere there is a shortage of affordable housing and he said there's a belief they could be renovated back to a habitable standard but the distillery hasn't paid much more than lip service to the idea.

I'm wary of taking this into a topic well covered elsewhere but I noticed a lot of little blue and yellow flags when out and about stating that the area, project etc had been funded by the EU rural development fund. In less than a year you have to wonder where the money is coming from to close the potential funding gap.

Bridgend is where we stay when we're there...my suspension still isnt the same. I posted earlier about the Bunnahabhain plans, its not going to benefit folk who live there. The only new development up that way is a hipster style shepherds hut next to a loch, you probably drove past it, absolutely gorgeous setting but only for bed and breakfast of course.
Time for them to set up a community council, break away from Argyle and Bute and negotiate with the distilleries directly. Its ridiculous that the island has a luxury product that sells makes millions but alot of the basic facilities are crumbling.

[Pretty Boy]

Bridgend is where we stay when we're there...my suspension still isnt the same. I posted earlier about the Bunnahabhain plans, its not going to benefit folk who live there. The only new development up that way is a hipster style shepherds hut next to a loch, you probably drove past it, absolutely gorgeous setting but only for bed and breakfast of course.
Time for them to set up a community council, break away from Argyle and Bute and negotiate with the distilleries directly. Its ridiculous that the island has a luxury product that sells makes millions but alot of the basic facilities are crumbling.

We did spot that. It's certainly eye catching.

One of the things I think people don't realise is how few people are directly employed by the Islay whisky industry on a full time basis. Production at Lagavulin is operated by 7 people, Ardbeg by 5, that's with both running production 24 hours a day. Obviously there are seasonal tour guide jobs, admin jobs and a lot of indirect employment through whisky tourism but I think some people, myself included before I visited a distillery for the 1st time, still imagine an old fashioned cottage industry with a lot of hardy men doing manual labour.

[Colr]

Bridgend is where we stay when we're there...my suspension still isnt the same. I posted earlier about the Bunnahabhain plans, its not going to benefit folk who live there. The only new development up that way is a hipster style shepherds hut next to a loch, you probably drove past it, absolutely gorgeous setting but only for bed and breakfast of course.
Time for them to set up a community council, break away from Argyle and Bute and negotiate with the distilleries directly. Its ridiculous that the island has a luxury product that sells makes millions but alot of the basic facilities are crumbling.

What’s the vehicle in Scotland?

In England, parish (or town) councils can charge a precept on rates and, if they get their fingers out their collective ***** and produce a parish plan, they get a decent slice of the Community Infrastructure Levy from development.

Unfortunately, most of them are made up of pound shop Captain Mainwarings driven by their own sense of importnance than any vision for the community.

[hibsbollah]

What’s the vehicle in Scotland?

In England, parish (or town) councils can charge a precept on rates and, if they get their fingers out their collective ***** and produce a parish plan, they get a decent slice of the Community Infrastructure Levy from development.

Unfortunately, most of them are made up of pound shop Captain Mainwarings driven by their own sense of importnance than any vision for the community.

My experience of local government is all in England so my knowledge is similar to yours. I suppose the Eigg trust is a good example of what can work in Scotland. Whisky is so intimately linked to 'place' in my mind (in the same way as wine is in France with their terroir) that the distilleries and the community should be working closely together and let the benefits trickle down. Its easy to forget that a massive global brand like Laphroaig is actually named after a wee village with a few cottages without which the brand wouldn't exist!

[hibsbollah]

Not been to Islay before but hoping to take a wee trip once Ardnahoe is open. We know the family that owns it... me and my wife met through the daughter.

I've had a few peeks at the Ardnahoe developments through social media and it looks fantastic.

[marinello59]

Bridgend is where we stay when we're there...my suspension still isnt the same. I posted earlier about the Bunnahabhain plans, its not going to benefit folk who live there. The only new development up that way is a hipster style shepherds hut next to a loch, you probably drove past it, absolutely gorgeous setting but only for bed and breakfast of course.
Time for them to set up a community council, break away from Argyle and Bute and negotiate with the distilleries directly. Its ridiculous that the island has a luxury product that sells makes millions but alot of the basic facilities are crumbling.

I have just spent a rather pleasant afternoon at Bowmore’s open day, donations at the door to cover all tastings. The Ileach I was with is satisfied that he did his best to drink his share of the whisky revenues.

[hibsbollah]

I have just spent a rather pleasant afternoon at Bowmore’s open day, donations at the door to cover all tastings. The Ileach I was with is satisfied that he did his best to drink his share of the whisky revenues.

:greengrin Nice. avoid the curry house like the plague.

[marinello59]

:greengrin Nice. avoid the curry house like the plague.

:greengrin
It is a bit hit and miss but I’ve had some decent meals from there over the years. It is deserted in there tonight though.

[One Day Soon]

My experience of local government is all in England so my knowledge is similar to yours. I suppose the Eigg trust is a good example of what can work in Scotland. Whisky is so intimately linked to 'place' in my mind (in the same way as wine is in France with their terroir) that the distilleries and the community should be working closely together and let the benefits trickle down. Its easy to forget that a massive global brand like Laphroaig is actually named after a wee village with a few cottages without which the brand wouldn't exist!

The various iterations of land reform legislation post devolution help, but basically the community needs to find cash backing, critical mass and an organised framework to legitimately represent the community in order to take things forward.

There are also some interesting examples of community activity around renewables generation and community benefit.

I've long felt that the whisky industry's 'sainted' position as a prime Scottish product has meant they've been unchallenged on what goes back into local communities on the back of their global sales.

[Pretty Boy]

:greengrin
It is a bit hit and miss but I’ve had some decent meals from there over the years. It is deserted in there tonight though.

Chinese was bloody mobbed this time last week. Waited an age whilst the poor guy behind the counter juggled about 40 orders.

[hibsbollah]

The various iterations of land reform legislation post devolution help, but basically the community needs to find cash backing, critical mass and an organised framework to legitimately represent the community in order to take things forward.

There are also some interesting examples of community activity around renewables generation and community benefit.

I've long felt that the whisky industry's 'sainted' position as a prime Scottish product has meant they've been unchallenged on what goes back into local communities on the back of their global sales.

Ah, we agree on something. Cheers to that.

[Lancs Harp]

I wouldnt claim to be a whisky expert but have had one or two in my time. Having had a bottle or two in my time of Macallan (my personal favourite based on what Ive tried) I was fortunate enough to have a tipple of Macallan rare cask over New Year, wow, its difficult to come to terms with its price tag but seeing as I wasnt buying and was purely there to enjoy I can honestly say the best whisky Ive had by a considerable margin, lots and lots going on there, thoroughly enjoyed and would recommend not that Ive tried too many "elite" Whiskys in that price bracket.

[danhibees1875]

Had the Glenmorange 18 year last night in Quesquabe. Was disappointed by it though - the Quinta Ruben they have a bit lower down their price range is nicer.

[Mr White]

Bit of a side-step here if not a full on hi-jack... I've been meaning to get a decent Irish whiskey for a while now. Picked up a bottle of The Quiet Man in the airport at Belfast yesterday. It's produced in Derry and has just been bought by an American firm and the distillery is currently undergoing an expansion I believe.

They do a single malt and a blend. I went for the single and having just opened it I have to say it's surprisingly good. Quite delicate and subtle but I like that in a dram.

Tbh I only picked it over the other Irish malts because of the link to Pat Stanton in it's name but I'm glad I did!

[Colr]

Bit of a side-step here if not a full on hi-jack... I've been meaning to get a decent Irish whiskey for a while now. Picked up a bottle of The Quiet Man in the airport at Belfast yesterday. It's produced in Derry and has just been bought by an American firm and the distillery is currently undergoing an expansion I believe.

They do a single malt and a blend. I went for the single and having just opened it I have to say it's surprisingly good. Quite delicate and subtle but I like that in a dram.

Tbh I only picked it over the other Irish malts because of the link to Pat Stanton in it's name but I'm glad I did!

Redbreast is very nice whiskey.

[Pretty Boy]

Bit of a side-step here if not a full on hi-jack... I've been meaning to get a decent Irish whiskey for a while now. Picked up a bottle of The Quiet Man in the airport at Belfast yesterday. It's produced in Derry and has just been bought by an American firm and the distillery is currently undergoing an expansion I believe.

They do a single malt and a blend. I went for the single and having just opened it I have to say it's surprisingly good. Quite delicate and subtle but I like that in a dram.

Tbh I only picked it over the other Irish malts because of the link to Pat Stanton in it's name but I'm glad I did!

Green Spot is the whiskey all other Irish whiskeys should aspire to imo. It's unbelievably well balanced, it's hard to explain but if you taste it you'd know what I mean.

[Mr White]

Redbreast is very nice whiskey.



Green Spot is the whiskey all other Irish whiskeys should aspire to imo. It's unbelievably well balanced, it's hard to explain but if you taste it you'd know what I mean.

Cheers gents, going to sample those 2 next :aok:

[Jim44]

I enjoy my whisky but am no expert. I’m familiar with most of the popular malts and like most regional variations. One I recently loved was Glen Scotia Double Cask from Campbeltown. I recently got a present of a bottle of Port Ascaig 100% but fear it might be a step too far for me. Anybody familiar with it?

[Colr]

I enjoy my whisky but am no expert. I’m familiar with most of the popular malts and like most regional variations. One I recently loved was Glen Scotia Double Cask from Campbeltown. I recently got a present of a bottle of Port Ascaig 100% but fear it might be a step too far for me. Anybody familiar with it?

New one on me.

The reviews says its very smokey!

You’ll have to let us know when you’ve tried it.

[Pretty Boy]

I enjoy my whisky but am no expert. I’m familiar with most of the popular malts and like most regional variations. One I recently loved was Glen Scotia Double Cask from Campbeltown. I recently got a present of a bottle of Port Ascaig 100% but fear it might be a step too far for me. Anybody familiar with it?

Port Askaig is a Caol Ila bottled under a different name, expect smoke and an oiliness, I’ve got a bottle somewhere and iirc it’s pretty decent.

[Mr White]

Redbreast is very nice whiskey.

Green Spot is the whiskey all other Irish whiskeys should aspire to imo.

Having had a chance to get to know both of these I have to say the Redbreast is definitely my favourite. Have you tried the Quiet Man S? Greenspot is a nice one, but similar to Scotch matured in former sherry casks I find that flavour a bit harsh and acidic for some reason. Both great recommendations though and excellent additions to the cupboard :aok:

[Colr]

Good programme on Radio 4 this week about Japanese Whiskey.

You can get it on iPlayer.

[Colr]

Got a bottle of the Swedish whiskey Mackmyra on a recommendation.

Needs a bit of dilution but quite sherbetty taste and quite pleasant.

[JeMeSouviens]

The various iterations of land reform legislation post devolution help, but basically the community needs to find cash backing, critical mass and an organised framework to legitimately represent the community in order to take things forward.

There are also some interesting examples of community activity around renewables generation and community benefit.

I've long felt that the whisky industry's 'sainted' position as a prime Scottish product has meant they've been unchallenged on what goes back into local communities on the back of their global sales.

Are the Bruichladdich guys not meant to be fairly right on?

A mate of mine works for Edrington (Highland Park, Macallan, Grouse, etc) and they are wholly owned by a charitable trust iirc. Not sure what charities get the money, mind you, but I feel it's worth supporting and he gets me HP-12yo at £16 a bottle :greengrin. These things may be connected.

[Pretty Boy]

Are the Bruichladdich guys not meant to be fairly right on?

A mate of mine works for Edrington (Highland Park, Macallan, Grouse, etc) and they are wholly owned by a charitable trust iirc. Not sure what charities get the money, mind you, but I feel it's worth supporting and he gets me HP-12yo at £16 a bottle :greengrin. These things may be connected.

Bruichladdich was sold to Remy Cointreau in 2012, they are the biggest employer of all the distilleries on the island.

[JeMeSouviens]

Bruichladdich was sold to Remy Cointreau in 2012, they are the biggest employer of all the distilleries on the island.

As ever, I'm bang up to date. :rolleyes:

[danhibees1875]

Had a tour of Glenkinchie recently.

I never associated whisky and this far south before, but it's in a lovely setting just outside of Edinburgh and was a good tour. :agree:

Tastings at the end were good too. I'd had the 12YO before which is nice, but there was a distillers edition that had went through a 13th year in a differnet (Sherry I think) cask which made all the difference - a lovely wee tipple.

[TRC]

Got a bottle of the Swedish whiskey Mackmyra on a recommendation.

Needs a bit of dilution but quite sherbetty taste and quite pleasant.

Did you like it? I've been to the distillery a couple of time. Some decent stuff but if it's their standard bottling I wasn't a fan thought it was far to rough.

[Hibernia&Alba]

In the news today - Aldi home brand whisky voted the best in the world! Highland Black RRP 12.99.

[Pretty Boy]

In the news today - Aldi home brand whisky voted the best in the world! Highland Black RRP 12.99.

Both Aldi and Lidl have a couple of excellent whiskies.

One of the Lidl ones was a Caol Ila a couple of years ago and it was superb. The Aldi Glen Marnoch which also won an award is also a Caol Ila.

[Hibbyradge]

Stuart, I'm having my first dram out of that Lagavulin.

Sensational.

[ACLeith]

A friend brought me back 2 bottles from Islay, Lagavulin Distillers edition and the same from Caol Ila. She brought others as well so organising a big get together for opening them all. Getting more tempting to try them now though as each week goes by!

Anyone tried either of them?

[Hibbyradge]

A friend brought me back 2 bottles from Islay, Lagavulin Distillers edition and the same from Caol Ila. She brought others as well so organising a big get together for opening them all. Getting more tempting to try them now though as each week goes by!

Anyone tried either of them?

It's the Lagavulin I mentioned in the above post.

Lovely.

[Pretty Boy]

Stuart, I'm having my first dram out of that Lagavulin.

Sensational.

It really is a beauty. Glad you enjoyed it.

[ACLeith]

It's the Lagavulin I mentioned in the above post.

Lovely.

Thanks PB. Even more tempting now to open it!

[Hibbyradge]

Thanks PB. Even more tempting now to open it!

I'm not PB 😁

[ACLeith]

I'm not PB 😁

Oops! Can't even use the excuse that I've had too many drams! Just old age 😱

[Hibbyradge]

Oops! Can't even use the excuse that I've had too many drams! Just old age 😱

:greengrin

PB deserves credit too. He found it in Islay and brought it back for me.

Beware! I didn't open mine for weeks, but now I can't wait for my next dram.

:drool:

[danhibees1875]

Is anyone going to the Whisky fringe this year?

I'm going on Friday and just got the programme - there are some rather good, and expensive, whiskies on offer. I'm going to have a better study of the programme tonight so that I have a decent idea of what I'm wanting to try when there rather than going in blind and grabbing the first ones I see! If anyone has any recommendations then let me know! :aok:

https://www.royalmilewhiskies.com/media/wysiwyg/Whisky_Fringe/WF_2018_web_programme.pdf

[Rattler]

Not going to manage to get to the Whisky Fringe this year (as I forgot to get tickets!!) but have been along almost since it started...

If it were me, I'd be tempted with Stall 8 - Hunter Laing - and Stall 14 - Adelphi.

Would also pay a visit to Kilchoman, but seeing as I was over there at the distillery just 3 months ago and had a particular enjoyable tasting event at the time, maybe wouldn't be worthwhile.

I note that the programme still mentions sampling 6 drams maximum - not for me! can easily get a good couple of dozen in for the time that you're there, and then go back for seconds!!

[danhibees1875]

Not going to manage to get to the Whisky Fringe this year (as I forgot to get tickets!!) but have been along almost since it started...

If it were me, I'd be tempted with Stall 8 - Hunter Laing - and Stall 14 - Adelphi.

Would also pay a visit to Kilchoman, but seeing as I was over there at the distillery just 3 months ago and had a particular enjoyable tasting event at the time, maybe wouldn't be worthwhile.

I note that the programme still mentions sampling 6 drams maximum - not for me! can easily get a good couple of dozen in for the time that you're there, and then go back for seconds!!

I'll have a look at them!

I went through the programme and found the brands that I liked and highlighted the more expensive versions of them to try - maybe that's a waste of time though and I should be trying new things (which your stall suggestions would mostly be!).

I was also going to roughly categorise them from smooth to smokey and work up the scale for fear of some early smokey ones overpowering the later drams - not sure if that's stupid though! :greengrin

I noticed that about the 6 drams too. I wasn't sure if you would even get full measures when you taste, so I was certainly planning on going way over that suggestion. :greengrin

[Rattler]

You most definitely DON'T get full measures. Most of the bottles have the clear plastic dispenser fitted to the top of them, although not all - just depends on what the supplier/company that is operating that particular stall wants to do. Could be wrong, but seem to think it's around 10ml - very small indeed!

There are various ways of working the Whisky Fringe...

If you've never been before then all the stall are generally set around the outside of the hall, in numerical order. Like you say, a lot of people know what they are after and head straight there. There's plenty of time to sample everything that you intend to. People will hog space at particular stalls, but take your time and space will appear - either that or just force your way through!

If you're not sure what you're after then it's a good idea to start with the lighter stuff, working your way through to the really heavily peated stuff.

Either that or concentrate on the stuff that you wouldn't normally buy or wouldn't consider due to the cost.

Don't be ashamed to try some of the grain whisky either - often very good and you'd be struggling to notice the difference ( I couldn't anyway).

Great way to spend an afternoon!!

[danhibees1875]

Whisky fringe was great!

Everyone very happy to tell you about their history and what they recommend. Was brilliant.

No idea why they suggest trying 6 though, I managed to enjoy 32. :aok:

[danhibees1875]

32 was mistakes

[Colr]

Up in Auld Reekie for the festival at the weekend so I thought I’d treat myself at Cadenhead. Got a 16yo Glen Spey single cask.

Frankly, it’s like industrial grade ethanol. I bought some of their standard 12yo as a comparison and its much better - also doesn’t need 2:1 water to be able to drink it.

Lesson learned. Single cask is strong but not as complex as the blend that the distilleries put together.

[Colr]

Did you like it? I've been to the distillery a couple of time. Some decent stuff but if it's their standard bottling I wasn't a fan thought it was far to rough.

Yeh, it was nice stuff.

I see a London whisky is due to launch soon. First in 145years!

[Pete]

Spent an enjoyable evening in Queen Street at one of the tasting sessions. Food was lovely, the host was good and we met some interesting characters.

Whiskies were all lovely and very strong. Should’ve joined there and then as we were offered a discount but never mind.

Highly recommended 👍🏼

[offshorehibby]

Thought i'd stick this on here rather than start a new thread.

I heard about the 8 Game Of Thrones whiskies but looking online can only see 4 or 5 for sale. Any of you whiskey buffs got any info.

https://www.decanter.com/wine-news/game-thrones-scotch-whiskies-launched-407338/

[Colr]

Thought i'd stick this on here rather than start a new thread.

I heard about the 8 Game Of Thrones whiskies but looking online can only see 4 or 5 for sale. Any of you whiskey buffs got any info.

https://www.decanter.com/wine-news/game-thrones-scotch-whiskies-launched-407338/

Clynelish (High Garden) is just about my favourite whisky. Good to see that featured.

[HiBremian]

Spent an enjoyable evening in Queen Street at one of the tasting sessions. Food was lovely, the host was good and we met some interesting characters.

Whiskies were all lovely and very strong. Should’ve joined there and then as we were offered a discount but never mind.

Highly recommended 👍🏼

I gave my lad a membership for xmas (what you do at my age :greengrin) and he invited us to the Burns Night in Queen Street. Was great, with three impressive whiskies punctuating the meal.

By the way, if anyone wants 20% off membership, PM me. I've got a voucher.

[Mantis Toboggan]

If anyone is interested, I have 2 tickets for the (predictably sold out) Whisky Fringe at Mansfield Traquair on Friday 9 August that I can no longer use. They were £40 each but I would take £60 for the pair from a fellow .netter.
PM me if interested.

[southsider]

In the news today - Aldi home brand whisky voted the best in the world! Highland Black RRP 12.99.
They also got an award for the best gin. A superb orange based drink. Wasn't really a gin drinker before I tasted this.... but is so easy to drink. My wife and I got through a bottle the other night watching the Freddie Mercury movie. Its only £15.99 and a litre of lemonade for about 50p

[Killiehibbie]

Thought i'd stick this on here rather than start a new thread.

I heard about the 8 Game Of Thrones whiskies but looking online can only see 4 or 5 for sale. Any of you whiskey buffs got any info.

https://www.decanter.com/wine-news/game-thrones-scotch-whiskies-launched-407338/

You can also get limited edition White Walker, limited to millions of bottles.

There's also a couple based on the dragons.

https://scotchwhisky.com/magazine/latest-news/26080/johnnie-walker-debuts-song-of-ice-and-fire/

[Pretty Boy]

Bumping this thread.

I'm on Islay at the moment and my mission whilst here was to complete the set of distillery tours for the island. Despite staying in Port Charlotte every time I'm here and having driven past Bruichladdich dozens of times I'd never been in. Went on the tour yesterday and it was great, really interesting and far more about the whisky heritage on the island and the history of the distillery than the production process itself. I ended up having a long chat with our guide and once the rest of the tour disappeared I got a few extra tasters. The 2010 Bere Barley was about as far removed from my usual taste in whisky as you can get but it was very pleasant. The Octomore 09.2 was excellent, remarkably smooth for such a heavily peated whisky bottled at close to 60% ABV. With regards to that whisky, after some gentle interrogation my suspicions where confirmed that the peat used was not from Islay but is sourced from the mainland. Finally I tried the Port Charlotte 2011 Islay Barley. I ended up buying a bottle of this one and have already enjoyed a fair few drams. It's very good.

I'm off to Ardanhoe tomorrow morning. Very interested to see what the new kid on the block has to offer. That just leaves Bowmore, I don't really have a huge interest Tbh but will try and grab the basic tour before heading home just to tick it off the list.

[JeMeSouviens]

Bumping this thread.

I'm on Islay at the moment and my mission whilst here was to complete the set of distillery tours for the island. Despite staying in Port Charlotte every time I'm here and having driven past Bruichladdich dozens of times I'd never been in. Went on the tour yesterday and it was great, really interesting and far more about the whisky heritage on the island and the history of the distillery than the production process itself. I ended up having a long chat with our guide and once the rest of the tour disappeared I got a few extra tasters. The 2010 Bere Barley was about as far removed from my usual taste in whisky as you can get but it was very pleasant. The Octomore 09.2 was excellent, remarkably smooth for such a heavily peated whisky bottled at close to 60% ABV. With regards to that whisky, after some gentle interrogation my suspicions where confirmed that the peat used was not from Islay but is sourced from the mainland. Finally I tried the Port Charlotte 2011 Islay Barley. I ended up buying a bottle of this one and have already enjoyed a fair few drams. It's very good.

I'm off to Ardanhoe tomorrow morning. Very interested to see what the new kid on the block has to offer. That just leaves Bowmore, I don't really have a huge interest Tbh but will try and grab the basic tour before heading home just to tick it off the list.

Bowmore at least has a floor malting which is quite rare these days.

Have you been to Campbeltown? Springbank used to be a brilliant tour (by appointment). Mind you, haven’t been for a good few years.

[Pretty Boy]

Bowmore at least has a floor malting which is quite rare these days.

Have you been to Campbeltown? Springbank used to be a brilliant tour (by appointment). Mind you, haven’t been for a good few years.

I was in Campbeltown 3 or 4 years ago but missed the Springbank tour. Thankfully the kind folks at Glen Scotia meant it wasn't total waste of a day.

Visited Ardnahoe today and it was a really good tour. The view from the still room is stunning. A huge glass wall looking right over the sounds of Islay and the Paps of Jura. The worm tub condensers are a nice touch and a bit of a rarity these days. It's disappointing to hear they are currently casking and storing their whisky in East Kilbride but they do have plans to change that in future. On the positive side there is no plan to release a new make, liqueur, gin or 3 year old. There is finance in place to ensure they can release absolutely nothing for up to 10 years. The quality will decide when anything is released for sale. I was 1 of only 3 people on the tour and the other couple had to shoot off so I got a bit extra time tasting. I had a taste of the new make which is amazingly viscous and oily at such an early stage. The cereal notes are still to the fore but at 40ppm the peat is noticeable. Because the distillery is owned by the Laings they have a huge range of bottling to taste on site. I tried a Girvan single grain 25 year old which was a beautiful dram. Very sweet, it reminded me of a really good, smooth bourbon. I also had a Laphroaig 12 year old single cask. It was finished in a sherry cask and I was a bit underwhelmed tbh. Pleasant enough but nothing to write home about.

All in all I think it's a distillery to look out for. They are clearly doing things properly and aren't just churning out any old rubbish to turn a profit.

[Hibbyradge]

I'm in Rio de Janeiro just now, but I'm jealous of you! :greengrin

If you happen to find any more distillery editions ... 👍

[JeMeSouviens]

I was in Campbeltown 3 or 4 years ago but missed the Springbank tour. Thankfully the kind folks at Glen Scotia meant it wasn't total waste of a day.

Visited Ardnahoe today and it was a really good tour. The view from the still room is stunning. A huge glass wall looking right over the sounds of Islay and the Paps of Jura. The worm tub condensers are a nice touch and a bit of a rarity these days. It's disappointing to hear they are currently casking and storing their whisky in East Kilbride but they do have plans to change that in future. On the positive side there is no plan to release a new make, liqueur, gin or 3 year old. There is finance in place to ensure they can release absolutely nothing for up to 10 years. The quality will decide when anything is released for sale. I was 1 of only 3 people on the tour and the other couple had to shoot off so I got a bit extra time tasting. I had a taste of the new make which is amazingly viscous and oily at such an early stage. The cereal notes are still to the fore but at 40ppm the peat is noticeable. Because the distillery is owned by the Laings they have a huge range of bottling to taste on site. I tried a Girvan single grain 25 year old which was a beautiful dram. Very sweet, it reminded me of a really good, smooth bourbon. I also had a Laphroaig 12 year old single cask. It was finished in a sherry cask and I was a bit underwhelmed tbh. Pleasant enough but nothing to write home about.

All in all I think it's a distillery to look out for. They are clearly doing things properly and aren't just churning out any old rubbish to turn a profit.

Sounds good. :aok: I haven't been to Islay for ages. I think the last time was during the Bruichladdich closure. I'm overdue a visit.

[Hibbyradge]

I found this and thought you'd like it;

In 1952, Armon M. Sweat, Jr., a member of the Texas House of Representatives, was asked about his position on whiskey. What follows is his exact answer (taken from the Political Archives of Texas):

"If you mean whiskey, the devil’s brew, the poison scourge, the bloody monster that defiles innocence, dethrones reason, destroys the home, creates misery and poverty, yea, literally takes the bread from the mouths of little children; if you mean that evil drink that topples Christian men and women from the pinnacles of righteous and gracious living into the bottomless pit of degradation, shame, despair, helplessness, and hopelessness, then, my friend, I am opposed to it with every fiber of my being.

However, if by whiskey you mean the oil of conversation, the philosophic wine, the elixir of life, the ale that is consumed when good fellows get together, that puts a song in their hearts and the warm glow of contentment in their eyes; if you mean Christmas cheer, the stimulating sip that puts a little spring in the step of an elderly gentleman on a frosty morning; if you mean that drink that enables man to magnify his joy, and to forget life’s great tragedies and heartbreaks and sorrow; if you mean that drink the sale of which pours into Texas treasuries untold millions of dollars each year, that provides tender care for our little crippled children, our blind, our deaf, our dumb, our pitifully aged and infirm, to build the finest highways, hospitals, universities, and community colleges in this nation, then my friend, I am absolutely, unequivocally in favor of it. This is my position, and as always, I refuse to compromise on matters of principle."

[Jim44]

Bumping this thread.

I'm on Islay at the moment and my mission whilst here was to complete the set of distillery tours for the island. Despite staying in Port Charlotte every time I'm here and having driven past Bruichladdich dozens of times I'd never been in. Went on the tour yesterday and it was great, really interesting and far more about the whisky heritage on the island and the history of the distillery than the production process itself. I ended up having a long chat with our guide and once the rest of the tour disappeared I got a few extra tasters. The 2010 Bere Barley was about as far removed from my usual taste in whisky as you can get but it was very pleasant. The Octomore 09.2 was excellent, remarkably smooth for such a heavily peated whisky bottled at close to 60% ABV. With regards to that whisky, after some gentle interrogation my suspicions where confirmed that the peat used was not from Islay but is sourced from the mainland. Finally I tried the Port Charlotte 2011 Islay Barley. I ended up buying a bottle of this one and have already enjoyed a fair few drams. It's very good.

I'm off to Ardanhoe tomorrow morning. Very interested to see what the new kid on the block has to offer. That just leaves Bowmore, I don't really have a huge interest Tbh but will try and grab the basic tour before heading home just to tick it off the list.

I did the same tour last weekend. I always thought of Islay whisky as always being peaty, so was surprised to discover they did a non-peaty one using, as you say, malted barley from Inverness.

[Colr]

I did the same tour last weekend. I always thought of Islay whisky as always being peaty, so was surprised to discover they did a non-peaty one using, as you say, malted barley from Inverness.

The characterisation of regional whisky is not a bad place to start but isn’t always correct.

[Moulin Yarns]

Anyone fancy a nip?

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-business-50170555

[Jim44]

Anyone fancy a nip?

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-business-50170555

I was in a shop, the Islay Whisky Shop, in Bowmore, last weekend. I was buying a bog standard bottle when the sales guy jokingly asked if I might fancy a bottle of this at £7,200.00 per bottle. I suggested that sales of that particular bottle would be few and far between but was surprised to hear him say ‘ you would be surprised’. I think investment in bricks and mortar might be safer than in tasty water. :greengrin

[Moulin Yarns]

I was in a shop, the Islay Whisky Shop, in Bowmore, last weekend. I was buying a bog standard bottle when the sales guy jokingly asked if I might fancy a bottle of this at £7,200.00 per bottle. I suggested that sales of that particular bottle would be few and far between but was surprised to hear him say ‘ you would be surprised’. I think investment in bricks and mortar might be safer than in tasty water. :greengrin

I have a bottle of Aberlour 1964 25 year old in wooden presentation box. Every bottle is individually numbered and each time a bottle is opened the value of an unopened bottle increases. Last time I checked it was a 4 figure sum.

I should have opened it on the evening of 21 May 2016.

[Pretty Boy]

I was in a shop, the Islay Whisky Shop, in Bowmore, last weekend. I was buying a bog standard bottle when the sales guy jokingly asked if I might fancy a bottle of this at £7,200.00 per bottle. I suggested that sales of that particular bottle would be few and far between but was surprised to hear him say ‘ you would be surprised’. I think investment in bricks and mortar might be safer than in tasty water. :greengrin

The Japanese in particular spend crazy money on Islay.

Collecting whisky as an investment is increasingly difficult though. Distilleries, or the multinational owners of distilleries, have long since tapped into that market and push limited editions or small releases at a high price. They see an initial rush then a surge in demand before it drops off and the value plateaus. They will recover as the available bottles become scarcer over time but often 'limited' editions can often be thousands if not tens of thousands of bottles.

I have a few bottles which are stashed away:

An Ardbeg Perpetuum Distillery Edition. Cost £99, now selling for about £400.
An Octomore Comus 4.2 - Cost £ 150, now selling for about £600
A 1988 lagavulin Distillers Edition. Cost £200, now selling for £650
An Invergordon 30 Year Old Single Grain. Cost £150, now selling for £500
A 13 year Old Laphroaig. Cost £80, now selling for £300
I've also got the inaugural releases from both Kilchoman and Abhainn Dearg but they don't seem to have had any great increase in value as of yet.


I'm in no rush to part with any of them and will see what the value does over the next few years, if it doesn't grow by anything worthwhile I'll just drink them:greengrin

At the last count my total number of bottles was 174. At least half of those are from Islay and there's probably a few gems, such as the Feis Ile releases, that I've forgotten about.

[Moulin Yarns]

The Japanese in particular spend crazy money on Islay.

Collecting whisky as an investment is increasingly difficult though. Distilleries, or the multinational owners of distilleries, have long since tapped into that market and push limited editions or small releases at a high price. They see an initial rush then a surge in demand before it drops off and the value plateaus. They will recover as the available bottles become scarcer over time but often 'limited' editions can often be thousands if not tens of thousands of bottles.

I have a few bottles which are stashed away:

An Ardbeg Perpetuum Distillery Edition. Cost £99, now selling for about £400.
An Octomore Comus 4.2 - Cost £ 150, now selling for about £600
A 1988 lagavulin Distillers Edition. Cost £200, now selling for £650
An Invergordon 30 Year Old Single Grain. Cost £150, now selling for £500
A 13 year Old Laphroaig. Cost £80, now selling for £300
I've also got the inaugural releases from both Kilchoman and Abhainn Dearg but they don't seem to have had any great increase in value as of yet.


I'm in no rush to part with any of them and will see what the value does over the next few years, if it doesn't grow by anything worthwhile I'll just drink them:greengrin

At the last count my total number of bottles was 174. At least half of those are from Islay and there's probably a few gems, such as the Feis Ile releases, that I've forgotten about.

Patience is a virtue. The Aberlour 1964 was 10,000 and I have number 5378

A quick look and a bottle is on sale at £1500


https://www.whisky-online.com/aberlour-1964-25-year-old-bottled-1989-html.html

[Slavers]

Want crazy at the weekend and purchased a bottle of Glengoyne 18 years. Quite a step up in price and quality for me but the smoothness of the liquid when in my mouth was like nothing before.

Purchased it especially for the JT fight and was drinking it as he won the fight tasted extra nice.

[Slavers]

Also purchased a Talisker 10 at £30 reduced from £43 in Tesco. Makes up for paying £100 For the Glengoyne 18 when you can buy it for £85 online.

[danhibees1875]

Also purchased a Talisker 10 at £30 reduced from £43 in Tesco. Makes up for paying £100 For the Glengoyne 18 when you can buy it for £85 online.

How was the Glengoyne 18? :aok:

[Colr]

How was the Glengoyne 18? :aok:

Glengoyne was my introduction to whisky curtesy of the barman at the Grove pub in Finnieston.

Never tried the posh 18yo stuff though!!

[GreenLake]

The Japanese in particular spend crazy money on Islay.

Collecting whisky as an investment is increasingly difficult though. Distilleries, or the multinational owners of distilleries, have long since tapped into that market and push limited editions or small releases at a high price. They see an initial rush then a surge in demand before it drops off and the value plateaus. They will recover as the available bottles become scarcer over time but often 'limited' editions can often be thousands if not tens of thousands of bottles.

I have a few bottles which are stashed away:

An Ardbeg Perpetuum Distillery Edition. Cost £99, now selling for about £400.
An Octomore Comus 4.2 - Cost £ 150, now selling for about £600
A 1988 lagavulin Distillers Edition. Cost £200, now selling for £650
An Invergordon 30 Year Old Single Grain. Cost £150, now selling for £500
A 13 year Old Laphroaig. Cost £80, now selling for £300
I've also got the inaugural releases from both Kilchoman and Abhainn Dearg but they don't seem to have had any great increase in value as of yet.


I'm in no rush to part with any of them and will see what the value does over the next few years, if it doesn't grow by anything worthwhile I'll just drink them:greengrin

At the last count my total number of bottles was 174. At least half of those are from Islay and there's probably a few gems, such as the Feis Ile releases, that I've forgotten about.

I am totally unable to stash away any bottles of good whiskey. I end upon drinking them with guests.

My bar is more likely to have good rums and tequilas these days and they go fast too.

Homere Clement
Diplomatico Ambassador
Zacapa XO
Flor de Cana 25

Don Julio 1942
Fuenteseca Reserva 21

[Moulin Yarns]

I am totally unable to stash away any bottles of good whiskey. I end upon drinking them with guests.

My bar is more likely to have good rums and tequilas these days and they go fast too.

Homere Clement
Diplomatico Ambassador
Zacapa XO
Flor de Cana 25

Don Julio 1942
Fuenteseca Reserva 21

Don't come to Scotland if you are unable to differentiate your whiskey with our whisky 😉

[GreenLake]

Don't come to Scotland if you are unable to differentiate your whiskey with our whisky 😉

Whoooosh.

But sorry, couldn't resist. It annoys me too.

[Alex Trager]

Got a membership for my christmas.
Quite excited for it but totally unsure what to expect or how it all works.

[ACLeith]

Got a membership for my christmas.
Quite excited for it but totally unsure what to expect or how it all works.

If you are local, the Vaults in Leith are excellent, I am not so keen on Queen Street, aiming for a different market there.

Just turn up with your card and sign in at Reception, you can bring 3 guests with you. I love the main room, the décor, the casual atmosphere (no dress code!), the knowledge and relaxed manner of the staff - if you need advice then they will help you without patronising, the range of drink on sale (not just whisky). The food is decent. You put your card behind the bar and then settle up at the end. It's not cheap, but great for a relaxing social occasion. Or just to sup in the corner on your own reading one of the newspapers.

I go in regularly with the wife and also a big gang of us (11-ish) every couple of months. The latter make a fair bit of noise, but we have never been told to shut up - yet!

Enjoy!

[Alex Trager]

If you are local, the Vaults in Leith are excellent, I am not so keen on Queen Street, aiming for a different market there.

Just turn up with your card and sign in at Reception, you can bring 3 guests with you. I love the main room, the décor, the casual atmosphere (no dress code!), the knowledge and relaxed manner of the staff - if you need advice then they will help you without patronising, the range of drink on sale (not just whisky). The food is decent. You put your card behind the bar and then settle up at the end. It's not cheap, but great for a relaxing social occasion. Or just to sup in the corner on your own reading one of the newspapers.

I go in regularly with the wife and also a big gang of us (11-ish) every couple of months. The latter make a fair bit of noise, but we have never been told to shut up - yet!

Enjoy!

Ah I see.

Sounds great. I am local so can head to the one at the vaults.
How expensive are we talking?
I am quite excited to get started with it.

[Pretty Boy]

Ah I see.

Sounds great. I am local so can head to the one at the vaults.
How expensive are we talking?
I am quite excited to get started with it.

I'd second the recommendation for The Vaults. Queen Street is fine but The Vaults is just nicer.

For their whiskies the pricing works in bands. Starting at about £4 a nip and going up to £30+, there is something for everyone. Pints are about a fiver and wine about £7 a glass. Not cheap but not out of line with Edinburgh prices.

The service is top notch. A few years back I was in with the girlfriend and we ran up a bill of well over £100. When I went to pay they had lost my card and someone had cashed off my table in error. They arranged for a new card and told me as it was their error the night was on them.

[ACLeith]

I'd second the recommendation for The Vaults. Queen Street is fine but The Vaults is just nicer.

For their whiskies the pricing works in bands. Starting at about £4 a nip and going up to £30+, there is something for everyone. Pints are about a fiver and wine about £7 a glass. Not cheap but not out of line with Edinburgh prices.

The service is top notch. A few years back I was in with the girlfriend and we ran up a bill of well over £100. When I went to pay they had lost my card and someone had cashed off my table in error. They arranged for a new card and told me as it was their error the night was on them.

For food, the standard price of a Main is around £11, £20 for a Flat Iron Steak (I remember that cause my wife had that yesterday!). For 2 standard mains and the steak plus a glass of wine and 2 soft drinks (I was driving afterwards!) the total came to £53.

As he was clearing the table, the server knocked over my glass - all it contained was the ice, but I joked that it was nearly full. He knew I was joking, but nevertheless brought me a second drink FOC. A small example of the great staff and relaxed atmosphere.

[Colr]

Just finishing off a Mortlach 12yo (better than the 16yo IMO).

What next? Thinking a Craigelachie 17 or Cask Orkney 18.

My favourite’s Clynelish.

[Moulin Yarns]

Just finishing off a Mortlach 12yo (better than the 16yo IMO).

What next? Thinking a Craigelachie 17 or Cask Orkney 18.

My favourite’s Clynelish.

2 Ls in Craigellachie. 😉

[Colr]

2 Ls in Craigellachie. 😉

Dodged a bullet there!!

[Colr]

Went for Scapa from Orkney in the end.

Young but tasty!!

[Sylar]

This could perhaps have been in the 'Isolation Purchases' thread, but I decided to join the SMWS a couple of days ago. I've long been a whisky drinker, and have toyed with joining for a long time, but finally bit the bullet with some spare cash sitting around due to no commuting/nursery fees!

If anyone fancies joining, give me a shout and I can give you a 20% off discount (which happens to get me £20 in vouchers too :greengrin).

[Eaststand]

For all you Malt Whisky drinkers, I've just posted on the PM board some details of single malts that I'm clearing out from my attic ;-)

GGTTH

[HUTCHYHIBBY]

Getting involved in a bottle of Singleton Malt Masters Selection with my old man, going down nicely!

[whiskyhibby]

Patience is a virtue. The Aberlour 1964 was 10,000 and I have number 5378

A quick look and a bottle is on sale at £1500


https://www.whisky-online.com/aberlour-1964-25-year-old-bottled-1989-html.html


My Best Buy was a bottle of 1972 Brora From rare malts which I purchased on release at just under £50, now wort £10k 😊

Currently have just under 330 closed bottles and another 20+ for drinking and a whole cask of Bruichladdich at the distillery (filled in 2002)

[Colr]

Anyone know if the SMWS Queen Street restaurant is open or is likely to open this year?

[Hibbyradge]

Anyone know if the SMWS Queen Street restaurant is open or is likely to open this year?

0131 555 2929 👍

[ACLeith]

Anyone know if the SMWS Queen Street restaurant is open or is likely to open this year?

The Vaults has been open fir a few weeks using the usual precautions you would expect

[offshorehibby]

I see Hibs have a limited edition AN 18YO SPEYSIDE BLENDED MALT at £70 is that a bit expensive or about right for what it is.

https://rarefindwhisky.co.uk/hibernianfc

[danhibees1875]

I see Hibs have a limited edition AN 18YO SPEYSIDE BLENDED MALT at £70 is that a bit expensive or about right for what it is.

https://rarefindwhisky.co.uk/hibernianfc

I guess it depends how good it is. Some 18YO blends are cheaper than that, some more expensive (well, I'm not sure on that entirely).

At a guess, I'd assume anything with a football badge will have a higher than average mark up. Although the limited edition-ness might help it out there.

Tbh, it sounds quite nice and it's Hibs so I'll be getting one. :greengrin

[G-Reg]

I see Hibs have a limited edition AN 18YO SPEYSIDE BLENDED MALT at £70 is that a bit expensive or about right for what it is.

https://rarefindwhisky.co.uk/hibernianfc

It's a great dram and remember with it being a blended malt the age statement must be the youngest whisky in the blend. There are older malts in there. If you like sherried speyside malts you won't be disappointed. Its also natural colour and non chill filtered too

[Pretty Boy]

This looks interesting. Good chance if I buy one it won't be for drinking though. £70 for a limited edition from an independent bottler isn't particularly pricy.

I thought something like this was an area in which Hibs missed a trick after the SC win. There was a lot of tat but not much in the way of higher end items. It's good to see us trying things like this and the Eden Mill gins.

[danhibees1875]

The Hibs whisky arrived this morning - it looks great in the presentation box and the whisky has a lovely colour to it too! :aok:

[offshorehibby]

The Hibs whisky arrived this morning - it looks great in the presentation box and the whisky has a lovely colour to it too! :aok:

Orderd Monday arrived yesterday.:agree:

[G-Reg]

The Hibs whisky arrived this morning - it looks great in the presentation box and the whisky has a lovely colour to it too! :aok:

Thanks for the feedback! I hope a few people opened them to toast the Scotland result. I certainly did

[HUTCHYHIBBY]

My old man was given a bottle of Glendullan 12 year old in a wooden presentation box about 22 years ago, anyone any idea of its worth? He normally drinks the stuff instead of stashing it away.