Tastes

Consistently beats out the Redbreast 21 and all the other Irish whiskies in my collection. The extra abv helps, but it's also the most balanced, nearly as complex as the 21, and ultimately the one Irish I'd reach for more than any others (except possibly Green Spot). For the money, this is a no brainer.

Unremarkable, unpeated dram from Ardmore that kicked off the year 2020 as my only 20-year-old Scotch in the collection. This is my first expression from the distillery and although my initial impression was even more negative (notes of stale bread), it did improve with time in the glass. I need to go back to this with more wits about me to provide a proper mark, but starting here as a first impression.

Uncorked on New Years Eve 2019 as one of only two 19-year-old whiskies in my collection. It offers soft, rounded peat with some lightly fruited (pineapple) notes sitting on top of a heavy backdrop of salty sea air. The age is clear here and does a lot to mellow things out but also diminishes the peat smoke that makes Ardbeg great. A solid dram but one not worth the price of admission imo.

Absolutely nothing wrong with this one. My first intro into higher-end Islays about 18 months ago hasn’t let me down yet. Welcoming peat lets go to leather, plums, wood-cleaner, and berries as the finish adds in earthier tree branches and floral notes. Gorgeous.

Still super unique. Overpriced, sure, but something I enjoy drinking when I want a change up. Old, 100% rye is not something you see every day.

It’s in my top 2 because it transports you to another place and time...namely, an evening summer barbecue outside a fishing village. This Dram offers an Incredible balance of seaside salt, rich fruits, floral sweetness, and whispering peat. Truly a top notch Scotch whisky and happy to own a bottle. Top of the line Caol Ila

This is pretty close to being my perfect bourbon. Caramel corn on the nose with bits of cherry sweetness and mild spice on the palate. Highly recommended FR recipe.