Oh, Islay (prounounced, Eye'Luh)... Generally Islay malts being an extremely peaty experience, last night's final round 1 function at JR's abode was a very pleasant one. While I preferred a new scotch, Bowmore 18, over one of my favorites, Lagavulin 16 (95 in MJ's bible), the latter won the Top Scotch honor for the evening. It appears the group is coming around to enjoy more peaty malts. I love to see that our tastes are collectively evolving and our analysis much more debated and intellectual. An interesting aside is that the Dalmore 21 was a disappointment in my eyes (and merely a lighter scotch in the others'). Lesson of the day is that age isn't dispositive, and moreso that region does matter to flavor, aroma and experience.
I didn't hear no bell. Round two gents.
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Saturday, June 20, 2009
A June Affair. June 19, 2008--Bayonne, NJ
--"You know what's good about whisky?"--JR
--"Everything." --ASL
The last session's topscotch of the Tomintoul wanted a friend. After delaying the monthly frequency of our brotherhood, a June affair was held by ASL; a final nice function at his home in Bayonne. Warehouse Spirits on Broadway and Waverly afforded a fine selection of delicious whisky. The features of the night included: (i) Cragganmore-Distiller's Edition 1993; (ii) Ardbeg Uigedail, and (iii) a newly available dram, the Glenmorangie Astar. The latter was our top scotch, but not without "spirited" debate! One vote for the Ardbeg- big, smoky golden elixir, yet more for the Astar. The Astar did not come without fanfare and a fair amount of information as to the new designer whisky from Glenmorangie. The host was a fan of Glenmorangie's Signet (another fairly newcomer on the scene). The Astar, an alcoholy smell but not taste. Aroma pungent, taste peppery, finish sharp. A winner worth the title.
Consider the Ardbeg nevertheless, but rest assurred the Astar is a treat. I have to tell however that the Cragganmore, a 90+ scotch (Jackson) should not be overlooked. It was a night filled with treats. Special thanks to Allyson for the fabulous dinner and dips. Nothing better than a dram with a peanut butter chocolate chip cookie.
--"Everything." --ASL
The last session's topscotch of the Tomintoul wanted a friend. After delaying the monthly frequency of our brotherhood, a June affair was held by ASL; a final nice function at his home in Bayonne. Warehouse Spirits on Broadway and Waverly afforded a fine selection of delicious whisky. The features of the night included: (i) Cragganmore-Distiller's Edition 1993; (ii) Ardbeg Uigedail, and (iii) a newly available dram, the Glenmorangie Astar. The latter was our top scotch, but not without "spirited" debate! One vote for the Ardbeg- big, smoky golden elixir, yet more for the Astar. The Astar did not come without fanfare and a fair amount of information as to the new designer whisky from Glenmorangie. The host was a fan of Glenmorangie's Signet (another fairly newcomer on the scene). The Astar, an alcoholy smell but not taste. Aroma pungent, taste peppery, finish sharp. A winner worth the title.
Consider the Ardbeg nevertheless, but rest assurred the Astar is a treat. I have to tell however that the Cragganmore, a 90+ scotch (Jackson) should not be overlooked. It was a night filled with treats. Special thanks to Allyson for the fabulous dinner and dips. Nothing better than a dram with a peanut butter chocolate chip cookie.
Monday, April 6, 2009
April 3rd, 2009: The Commencement
Scotcheads commenced on April 3, 2009. Our gracious host GEZ provided a lovely atmosphere to taste fine whisky and enjoy friendly company. Our host offered fine foods and an excellent array of scotches.
They were: Balvenie 15 (Bottle 44 of 350 handnumbered bottles), Tomintoul 16 (the "Gentle Dram") and Aberlour A'bunadh The firstmost, a light yet spicy spirit. The second very buttery with an easy drink and pleasant nose. And the latter, a strong cask strength spirit, quite enjoyable, sherry cask. We are looking forward to our next event.
The club mascot: "Scotchasaurus" was born.
The purpose, although indirect, of each event is to find the evening's "TopScotch." First TopScotch, im sure all would agree, was the Tomintoul 16.
They were: Balvenie 15 (Bottle 44 of 350 handnumbered bottles), Tomintoul 16 (the "Gentle Dram") and Aberlour A'bunadh The firstmost, a light yet spicy spirit. The second very buttery with an easy drink and pleasant nose. And the latter, a strong cask strength spirit, quite enjoyable, sherry cask. We are looking forward to our next event.
The club mascot: "Scotchasaurus" was born.
The purpose, although indirect, of each event is to find the evening's "TopScotch." First TopScotch, im sure all would agree, was the Tomintoul 16.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)