Tastes

My dad once described Laphroaig as "sucking on a charcoal briquet." He then offered me his glass, which I found entrancing. Ever since, I keep coming back to this one when I want something wild. It has a sharp-yet-flat nose, almost like the peat is holding itself back. But on the tongue, it's a straight-up riot - smoke, seaweed, peat, and a little dry fire on the end. Unlike any other and not for all times... But when it IS time, well, by God, accept no substitute.

Sweet but not overwhelmingly so - there's a little fruit in there, some honey. A wonderful easy-drinking scotch.

A scotch for an autumn night - smokey, dark, with just the right amount of pepper and peat.

A light scotch, sharp to the taste and not terribly complex on the surface. Once it opens, there are some herbal notes but still lacking in any striking qualities.

A sweet, easy-drinking bourbon. More complex than basic bourbons but still with a sharp American finish.