Tasting Notes By Region
Islay  |  Islands  |  Campbeltown  |   Speyside   |   Highlands   |  Lowlands

Irish Whiskey  |  Blended, Vatted & Grain  |  American Tasting Notes

    How to taste whisky

1. Start with a tulip shaded glass (never a whisky tumble). This will concentrate the aroma of the spirit.
2. Nose the whiskey two to three times
3. Take a small sip and let the whisky coat your mouth and note what flavors you pick up
4. Add water to the spirit to open it up and to release the oils in the dram (I add just a splash)
5. Take a big sip and note the overall body of the spirit
6. Move the whisky around in your mouth to pick up additional flavors
7. Swallow and note how long the finish is
8. Take your time and try only a few at a time and drink plenty of water between sips.
   
    

Glen – 98

The standard by which other Islay’s are judged. An intense dram full of peat and smoke. A powerhouse that needs to be sipped slowly and enjoyed on cold nights around the fire. Lagavulin 16 has the best finish in the business, long and dry.

Jeff – 90

Massive, peat-smoke typical of southern Islay, yet with a dry finish & a hint of salt that makes up a classy package. It has a long finish with great complexity. Not for the beginner

 

Brett’s take: 96
My desert island dram.  Peat, smoke, brine, seaweed,
a balanced sweetness to set it all off.  If I ever need a transfusion, please use this! 

Available at most fine Liquor stores but becoming more rare and pricey.

$$$

Glen – 92

A refined dram for the true Islay connoisseur. More subtle and salty than the 16 year old and not as much of a punch in the gut.

Jeff – 91

Some smoke and saltiness, with pleasant peat-smoke. Well-balanced, leaving a sweet-peat aftertaste. Not as much sherry characteristics as its older brother. Great Whisky that should be a dram to savior.
 

Brett’s take: 88
Not better than the 16 year old; not worse either.  Definitely different, though. 
Less balance.  Notes of tar and burnt rope (in a good way).  More fun, less contemplative than the 16. 

Limited availability at some fine Liquor stores.

$$$$

Glen – 90

This is one very tame Lagavulin. Still fantastic, but in a much different way. The dram is well balanced and the sherry doesn’t overpower the whisky. The great dry Lagavulin finish (which I love) is gone, but it’s been replaced with an equally complex long and sweet finish. Subtle, rich and deep. Still, nothing compares to the 16 year old, which is not a fair comparison (to any dram).

Nose: Malty, sherry, fresh sea air, a whiff of smoke
Body: Chewy and sweet
Finish: Long, sharp and sweet, drying with some peat coming through in the end

A sweet Lagavulin.
 

Jeff – 92

A fantastic whisky that seems to get better with each sip. I think this is the best besides the Lagavulin 30 year old.

Lots of vanilla in the nose with a roasted maltyness that keeps you coming back for more. The body is heavy with a sweet salty taste that all most makes you call your ex-girlfriend and invite her over.

Finish is long and with some dried fruit with hints of peat. WOW I'm in love just don't tell my wife.

Brett's Take: 92
Secondarily matured in Pedro Ximenez sherry casks, one whiff will help delineate this Lagavulin from its brethren. As you would expect, this is a very sherried dram! Almost Cabernet-like, this whisky also noses blueberries and floral notes along with its light peatiness, and one taster even picked-up stewed fruits. A medium mouth feel gives way to a not-overly-complex finish, predominated by a pleasing astringency that is actually almost cooling! Wine-like in its tannic character, this dram wafts away on a pillow of dried nuts. Very enticing.

Not Available in the US

$$$

Glen – 91

Dec/2007
A great lagavulin that has everything except that long and amazingly dry finish that defines the 16 yr old. The nose is dominated by maple cured bacon and peat smoke while the body is thick and mouth coating. The finish is big, dry and medium length.

Nose: Maple cured bacon, a camp fire, leather and peat smoke
Body: Thick and moth coating
Finish: Big and dry, sharp, medium length

Not a classic but respectable.

 

Jeff – 87

When I received this bottle I couldn't hide my emotions calling my brother and telling him he better be nice to me or else no 21. Then I had it, A very nice whisky but I was hoping for so much more. It had a nice big toffee, dried fruit, morning breakfast nose, then it kind of went south from there. The body was rich and full bodied. With peppery notes with a hint of salt. The finish was smoky, leathery and sharp.

Brett's Take: 90
Lots of overpowering stuff here. The nose is extremely perfumed; full of ripe fruits, peaches, caraway seeds, and loads of malt. It is coastal, lightly smoky, and, according to another taster contains hints of caramel fudge, though I have to admit, I’m missing that. Deliciously full-bodied and mouth-coating. The finish is also extremely big and full, stuffed with cooked fruits, sugar almonds, nonpareils, and especially smoke. Honestly, a very nice dram, though I would have liked a little more balance between the beginning perfume and the ending smoke.

Not Available in the US

$$$$$

Glen – 95

My wife gave me this bottle for my 37th Birthday and quickly announced that it would be the last bottle she ever bought me. It seems she thought the price was a little high and thought the money should go to (supposedly) more important things like the mortgage or groceries. My ramblings about the ‘water of life’, ‘Lagavulin being my favorite distillery’ and ‘price doesn’t matter for such a great work of art’; fell on deaf ears.

It’s hard to top Lagavulin’s 16 year old but this whisky makes a good attempt. It still has much of the great Islay fire that can get too tamed down after such a long maturation process. A very smooth, complex and big Lagavulin that’s very warming and flavorful. This dram stays with you for an eternity and one glass can last you the whole night. This dram will consume you whole.

Nose: Ancient and woody, sweet, tobacco, heather, peat smoke and coastal brine
Body: Medium to thick, lighter without water
Finish: Incredibly dry, long and peaty, a slow burn and then a roaring fire, some sweetness, amazing!

You don’t drink this whisky, you experience it.
 

Jeff – 94

This was the finiest Lagavulin, i've tried.Very pricy, but if your brother haa a bottle drink his. I found this whisky very well balenced and so complex. You will pick up sweet oak, vanellia, some Tabacco in the nose. then here comes the body rich, full bodied, silky with a sexy smoky finish that makes you stop for a moment and say wow was that whisky really that good.

Brett's Take: 94
Damn. Why do some expensive whiskies have to taste so darn good? Subtle and elegant, the 30 year old has very little bite, replacing that with notes of butterscotch, malt, light citrus, and fresh almonds. Medium-bodied, this whisky is just so…so…smooth, with a finish containing light peat and smoke (of course), malt, oak, Kona coffee, and fresh cream. All-consuming. I hate this dram.

Limited.

$$$$$

Glen – 85

I've always been a big Bowmore fan. Bowmore is a great whisky to start with if you new to Islays. This dram has that trademark peaty Bowmore taste and a nice sweetness to balance it out.

Nose: peat, cigarette ash
Body: Firm
Finish: Intense while it lasts, the peat sticks to your mouth, some light smoke

A great peaty dram that’s not too intense

Jeff – 83

A light Islay whisky that has a fresh coastal character about it. A nice dram to enjoy during the summer. Not as complex as the other Islays' but a good dram none the less

Available at most Liquor stores.

$$

Glen – 81

Jeff – 79

A nice Islay whisky with out the heavy price. A bit young with a sharp body. I like to add a splash of water to this one and enjoy.

Available at some Liquor stores.

$

Glen – 89

Jeff – 85

This is a nice bottle of whisky but I don't see what Glen is all excited about. I will admit I'm a speyside sherry fan, so I was pretty exited to try this whisky for the first time. It has  a winey, nutty fresh nose with a sweet woody aroma. The body and palate was very nice, chewy creamy and the finish was very delicate smooth and long.

A nice whisky but just missing that wow factor for me.

Glen –

Jeff – 96 Editor Pick Spring 2008

I had the pleasure, and it was a pleasure, to taste the new Black Bowmore 1964,
aged 42 years. It was one of the top 5 whiskies I’ve tried in the last 6 months.
The first thing that struck me was how different this whisky was. The nose was
ripe with exotic fruit (mangoes, papayas) with an old feel to it that was surprisingly
very fresh. What makes this whisky so unique is, it was aged in walnut
(yes, walnut) sherry casks. The taste was silky -- not oily nor heavy, just perfect,
with no hint of smoke from this Islay, but with a sexy lingering finish.
It’s like you’re in the Caribbean on the beach, listening to steel drums with a
beautiful island girl sitting next to you. WOW!
The whisky, I feel, is almost underpriced.
 

Rare.

$$$$$ - $4,500

Glen – 83

Brett – 85

Ah…an Islay. And a nice old one at that, though you wouldn’t know it from the freshness of the nose – very pretty. There is also licorice and light sherry, but what predominates is a profound Bowmore smokiness, specifically salami and smoked summer sausages. The body on this dram continues the “chewy” theme, being beautifully full-bodied. This Bowmore’s finish was not nearly as big as the nose, though it did still have a level of smokiness to it, along with old sherry and a slight mustiness, and (possibly) too much oak. Still, nice to see how some extra time in the cask can change a classic whisky.

Very limited.

$$$$$

Glen – 75

Brett –

Very limited.

$$$$$

Glen – 77

A very different Bowmore (until the next one we tried) that came off sweeter and lighter than the distillery bottled drams we’re used too. I enjoyed the nose that had hints of smoke, must and coconut. The body was light while the finish had a sweet smoky flavor. We also picked up grape soda of all things. I love Bowmore but this one may be a little too adventurous for me.

Nose: Light smoke, must, coconut, light peat, cooked vegetables
Body: Light
Finish: Fresh, sweet smoke, dry, grade soda, unique

Sweet and different.

Rating: 77

Brett –

Very limited.

$$$$$

Glen – 88

Feb 2008
A very comforting and flavorful Bowmore that grows on you after each sip. It definitely gave up its secrets slowly. The nose was rich with hints of leather, dark chocolate and orange peel. Had a medium soft mouthfeel and a rich smoky explosion for a finish. Well done and a great Bowmore.

Nose: Leather, dark chocolate, orange peel, overripe fruit
Body: Medium mouthfeel and soft
Finish: Medium length and a rich explosion of fruit and smoke, warming

A dram you didn’t want to end.
 

Brett –

Limited.

$$$$

Glen – 77

Oct 2008
Can this whisky live up to all the hype and anticipation I had built up in my mind? That’s what I was thinking as a sat down to sample this rare and pricy dram? Let’s just say I was a wee bit disappointed. My co-taster expounded on all the fruit, fruit, fruit but what he failed to mention was a bitter orange finish and unpleasant peach aftertaste. Not fresh peaches mind you but peach hard candy, and who the heck likes peach candy? NOT ME! The nose was by far the best part of this dram with dried apricots, leather, a touch of ash and peat. The body was silky smooth but the finish really ruined what was up to that point a good date.

Nose: Big and robust, dried apricots, peat, pencil shavings, ash, leather
Body: Silky smooth
Finish: Long, bitter orange, peat, unpleasant peach aftertaste

A big let down.
 

Brett –

Limited.

$$$$$

Glen –

Jeff – 84

A Light Islay malt, with a beautiful floral nose. Light peat gives it a nice smooth fruity body, with hints of orange. A nice sweet finish rounds out a nice glass of whisky. I do feel the heart of Bruichladdich gets lost with to many expressions.

Available at some Liquor stores.

$

Glen – 81

A young but good expression from Bruichladdich. Sometimes it’s difficult to cut through all of the different expressions that are offered from this Islay distillery. At its core, Bruichladdich makes lightly peated whisky that is much lighter than many of the more pungent whiskies found on Islay. You know your drinking a young whisky but it holds up well with a nice dry peaty finish. Bruichladdich tends to be pricey so this is a nice inexpensive option.

Nose: Fruity, crushed apples, malty, young
Body: Hot, creamy
Finish: Short, dry some peat smoke


 

Jeff –

Not widely available

$$

Glen – 82

Matured in refill Spanish oak, Links is a fruity dram that noses younger than it is. I still don’t understand the need for all of the specialty woods from this distillery. When you’re maturing whisky on Islay just let the Island and the sea do the work.

Nose: young with a tequila like character, cantaloupe, hints of lemon
Body: Medium with a fruity sweetness
Finish: Medium length, has some bite

 

Jeff –

Available at some fine liquor stores

$$$

Glen – 85

A real step up compared to the younger expressions. No peat to speak of but the dram has an appealing freshness to it that I enjoyed. Reminded me more of a coastal whisky than an Islay. Not too subtle or smooth this one has some character and attitude.

Nose: Fresh sea air, briny, nutty, some oak and vanilla
Body: Sweet and creamy
Finish: Long sharp and flavorful

Very Good.

 

Jeff –

Not widely available

$$$

Glen – 82

I enjoyed the 15 more but this is still a good whisky. It just didn’t have the same great finish of the 15 year old. Has that freshness in the nose that seems to be a trademark of Bruichladdich.

Nose: Fresh cut grass, sea air, vanilla, oak
Body: Medium, coats the mouth
Finish: Short, dry and a little rough for its age

Seemed younger then it is.

 

Jeff –

Not widely available

$$$

Glen – 79

Updated Nov 2008
The standard Laphroaig ten year old is an intense dram at the very top of the single malt flavor profile. The first time I tried this robust malt it was like eating a charred piece of wood dipped in iodine. Loads of smoke and peat, and by far the most pungent and distinctive of the Islay malts. Definitely a dram you build up to. A tab too medicinal for my taste.

Nose: Big smoke, iodine, very medicinal, heather
Body: Full
Finish: Long and dry, a smoke and peat assault

Not for the faint of heart.
 

Jeff – 88

The only Distillery to make a profit in the US during prohibition because of its iodine & peat character it was sold for medicinal purposes. A truly underrated whisky that grows on you like a fungus. A great night cap for the experienced whisky lover.

Brett’s take: 82
I know that, as an Islay man, I should like this, but I don’t. The smoke seems to overpower the peat and drown-out everything else.  All in all, the experience leaves me flat. 

Available at most Liquor stores.

$$

Glen – 88

This dram definitely needs water, without it I could smell the peat from 2 feet away. A must for the peat freaks. With water the dram was remarkably smooth even though it’s all peat. A very good tough as nails whisky.

Nose: Strong peat, very medicinal, charcoal, (honey when water is added)
Body: Fills the mouth
Finish: Like chewing ash but in a good way, long and dry

Remarkably smooth while still maintaining its rugged Islay character.
 

Jeff –

Available at some fine Liquor stores.

$$$

Glen – 92

Updated Nov 2008
This is Islay whisky at its truest and most basic form. This complex and smoky full throttle dram will leave your head spinning. The nose has a wonderful fresh sea air quality that hides the true power of this dram, which hits you in the finish. This dram is the very pinnacle of what Islay is all about. I usually will make this the only, or the last, dram of the night since it will destroy your palate for anything else. One of the best.

Nose: Seaweed and salt, a fresh sea breeze, earthy, smoke and peat
Body: Medium
Finish: Very long and dry, wet ash, a morning campfire

A dram to fear; but one you’ll grow to love.
 

Jeff – 91

The should have a warning on the label don't try this at home unless under the direct supervision of others. A very complex whisky with massive peated flavor with a hint of sweetness that gives this whisky a truly great finish.

Brett’s take: 92
Now this is more like it.  Maybe it’s because I “water to taste”, but here is where I’m catching it all.  Like Glen says, it’s like drinking whisky out of an ashtray.  (Am I the only one who looks at these descriptions and wonders who in the world would drink this stuff?)  Amazing, complex whisky – don’t just dismiss it as “too intense”; this dram is much more than just smoke. 

Available at some fine Liquor stores.

$$$

Glen – 93

A tremendous dram that all Islay fans should love. You’ll fall in love with this one right away. The nose was subtle and not over powering with a distinctive bonfire smoke and ash character. The finish had a big initial smoky flavor that lingered for an eternity. A must have in my collection. Then again, I feel that way about the entire Laphroaig range.

Nose: Subtle, bonfire smoke and ash
Body: Huge smoky flavor, big
Finish: A huge punch of smoky flavor in the beginning, some hidden notes of vanilla bean, warming and lingering

A great one!
 

Jeff – 93

I fantastic whisky and one of my favorite Islays'. It seems every time I go doen to my bar The bottle is almost gone. I seem to drink alot of this spirit and for good reason. You will be hard pressed to find a better Islay for the money then this sweet baby.It so smooth with a beautiful nose of smoked bacon, sitting around a camp fire on a cool crisp night. The body is smoky but just right with a sweet leathery taste. Did i happen to mention smooth. I feel this is one of the most well balanced Islays' on the market today.

Available at some fine Liquor stores.

$$$

Glen – 93

I love Laphroaig! But as I was enjoying this dram I had to keep reminding myself that I was actually drinking a Laphroaig. The smack in the face is gone but it’s been replaced with a wonderfully complex and flavorful dram that may be loved by more non Laphroaig fans than the laphroaig faithful. The fire is gone and replaced by sweet notes of chocolate and spices. The dram retains enough iodine and peat to make you feel at home. Sometimes age isn’t a friend to Islay whiskies but this one pulls it off well. Very smooth and enjoyable.

Nose: Sweet, chocolate, orange marmalade, some peat and iodine
Body: Medium bodied
Finish: Long, spicy, has a sharpness in the center of your mouth, Big at first and waffs away slowly (a great finish)

A tame but wonderful Laphroaig.
Special!
 

Jeff – 95

If you Wife, Girlfriend happens to give you a bottle as a present shes a keeper. My wife bought me a bottle for my birthday - not knowing I had 4 other bottles of this nectar of the gods. I find whiskies reach their peak form 15-19 years old. But, not this one. The nose is fruity with hint of peat. The body is very smooth and reminds me of that crispy cream donut with the chocolate glaze after a night out on the town. The finish is very lingers and makes you savor the moment and stop talking.

Rare.

$$$$$

Glen – 82

Updated Nov, 2007
When I think peat, Ardbeg is always the first dram that comes to mind. Although peat dominates all their drams, Ardbeg still has a nice drinkable character. The ten year old has a nice fresh peat smoky nose with notes of malt and iodine. Clearly the nose is the best part of the dram. The body is thick and warming while the finish is overwhelmingly peaty. The dram does linger although the finish is medium to short in length.

Nose: Fresh peat, malt, smoke, iodine and fruit
Body: Thick
Finish: Medium length, dominated by peat, lingering

Calling all peat freaks….

Jeff – 83

Love it or hate it, you must love peat to enjoy this dram or need to seek professional help. A ferociously powerful dram with a medicinal phenols finish. They say scotch is an acquire taste, then you have to acquire a new one for Ardbeg

Brett's Take: A nose that is on the one hand peaty with light smoke, and on the other somewhat youthful, with hints of gauze and tar. The medium-heavy mouthfeel gives way to an overpowering finish of smoke and peat, along with hints of butterscotch. Powerful, and what people think of when discussing Ardbeg. Rating: 80 (Nov, 2007)

Available at most Liquor stores.

$$

Glen - 86

Updated Nov, 2007
As with most Ardbeg’s, this ones all in the nose. Fresh and clean with notes of orange, ash and coastal brine. Oh yes, and of coarse peat, but it’s not over done. I simply love the nose of this dram, one of the best. The finish is dominated by big roaring peat which tends to unbalance the dram a wee bit. Otherwise, a very nice Ardbeg.

Nose: Fresh, peat, oranges, oak char, ash and coastal brine
Body: Medium, mouth coating
Finish: Roaring big peat, long and dry, had a hard candy sweetness that came through at the very end

I could NOSE this one all day long.
 

Brett – 83

Nov, 2007
This one has a nose that’s much fruitier than the 10 year old (though that’s not saying much), with melons, oranges, fresh ivy, fruit scones, charred oak, and of course smoke and peat. A medium-bodied malt, the peat really rears its head, with an intensity that makes me feel like I’m cutting it myself. Uigeadail is also verrrry smoky in the finish, with hints of wet earth, iodine, and a spicy/sweetness that we found appealing.

Available at some fine liquor stores

$$$

Glen - 89

Updated Nov, 2007
This one is my favorite Ardbeg in the current distillery range. Again, a great nose but the dram is much more balanced. This is all peat but done very well. The peat warps itself around you instead of punching you in the face. Less smoke and more sweetness come through. Very complex and enjoyable. A BIG, BIG peaty whisky.

Nose: Fresh and clean, peat, smoke, menthol, deep-pulls you in, chocolate, sweet, coastal brine
Body: Medium
Finish: Big peat and fiery, burning, medium length, perfumed sweetness

A thinking man’s Ardbeg
 

Brett – 88

Nov, 2007
A beautiful, complex nose. A juxtaposition of descriptions went flying around the testing table with this one: meadow freshness, mint, seashore, smoke, fishing nets, menthol, chocolate mints, a perfumed sweetness. Somehow, though, everything complemented each other. Like most Ardbegs, “the Beastie” was medium-bodied, but unlike most, the finish was a little short, though warming. The finish was nicely balanced; still peaty, less smoky, with baked apples and more mint. Well done.

Available at some fine liquor stores

$$$

Glen - 93

Dec/2007
We were fortunate enough to sample Ardbeg’s new Double Barrel collection that retails for the low low sum of only $20,000. The collection includes two hand made bottles of single cask 1974 Ardbeg, a Purdey guncase, six Silver Hamilton and Inches silver cups and a wooden pen. The case and cups are cool but the real question is, how’s the whisky? Well it didn’t disappoint but I did disagree with my fellow tasters on which one was the best. I preferred Cask #3145, which I found to be very subtle and elegant. Much different then the BIG peat character of many Ardbeg drams. Very well balanced and exceptionally smooth.

Nose: Subtle and elegant, peat smoke, honey, brine, very fresh and clean
Body: Light and flavorful
Finish: Medium length and subtle, peat, very smooth and gentle, flavorful

A very gentle and elegant Ardbeg. I loved it.
 

Jeff – 94

Rare

$$$$$

Glen - 88

Dec/2007
This one was the crowd favorite (excluding me). Hey not that it wasn’t great but I preferred the smooth elegance of cask #3145. This dram came off much spicier, incredibly well balanced and enjoyable. Had a fresh clean nose that you could loose yourself in. Not quite the experience I was promised but an exceptional dram nonetheless.

Nose: Fresh and clean, peat, subtle smoke, nutmeg and allspice
Body: Medium and spicy
Finish: Medium length, cloves, peat, malt

Well put together.
 

Jeff – 98

Glen has lost his marbles on this one, I almost paid the 20,000 for the two bottles because I enjoyed them so much. I thought this whisky had it all nose, taste, balance, peat, finish all working together with one common goal, whisky bliss

Rare

$$$$$

Glen – 82

The gentlest of the Islays. A very good dram at a reasonable price. Doesn’t have the same power as others but can definitely stand on its own. A good dram if you like a little smoke but not that distinctive Islay iodine taste.

Nose: Salty, burnt chocolate, sea air
Body: Medium, covers the mouth
Finish: Long, satisfying

I could drink this one all day.
 

Jeff – 88

A very refreshing dram that has a gentle fresh sea-air quality. A underrated whisky because of its difference from other Islays. A gentle dram at a great price that is no longer a secret.

Brett’s take: Rating 85
Boring.  Not bad, just not enough of what’s good.  This is as un-Islay a dram as the island has to offer – a little salt, a little “nose sting”, a little sweetness, a little finish.  Give me something BIG, even if it’s a BIG softness.  Maybe it’s just more subtle than I am?  Probably. 

Available at some Liquor stores.

$

Glen – 83

I’ve never met a Bunna I didn’t like and this one is no exception. Bunnahbhain never seems to get the credit it deserves even though they make outstanding whisky. The 18 year old is less briny then the 12 and has more sweetness and sherry. I prefer the 12 year old slightly more since it’s a little less sweet and has more of a salty character.

Nose: Crushed red apples, honey, nutty
Body: Very smooth and well balanced
Finish: Medium length and dry, some brine, spice, smooth

Well balanced and delightful.

 

Jeff –

Available at some Liquor stores.

$$

Glen – 92

This one is all in the finish!
The smoke comes through in a long smooth finish. Amazing depth and complexity. A gentle, smooth malt that should be savored neat.

Nose: Floral, heather, light smoke
Body: Light, complex
Finish: Long, smooth, smoky

Truly exceptional!
 

Jeff – 87

Not as big of a fan as Glen, But it's a nice whisky. The finish seems a little creamy for me, almost like mom but to much peanut butter on your sandwich. A nice salt air nose and a complex body with hits of toasted nuts.

Brett’s take: Rating 93
Ahhh, now that’s a Bunna!  Older isn’t always better, but it is in this case!  Light smoke, elegant sweetness, a nuttiness that only barely appears.  And a finish that wafts away slowly with ever lessening crescendos (Sorry, I’m getting a little carried away).  The only thing wrong with this dram is the inflated price – even at 25 years, I still can’t help thinking , “but it’s still a Bunna!”  Of course, I’ll probably change my tune when I finish my bottle and have to go buy another, which will then seem entirely reasonable. 

Not widely available

$$$$$

Glen – 85

Dec, 2007
A nice flavorful Bunna that had some bite and enough subtle peat to please. A fairly sweet nose with hints of honey and peat. Without water that dram came off a bite sharp but adding just a wee drop opened it up nicely.

Nose: Flavorful and fresh, honey and peat
Body: light to medium
Finish: Medium length and dry, peat, honey

Well rounded.
 

Jeff –

Limited.

$$$$

Glen – 87

A wonderful big smokey dram. I fell in love with the 18 year old Caol Ila and
this one is almost as good. Big smoke in the nose and a deceptively light body,
the smoke comes back in a great medium length finish.

Nose: Green grass, smoke, peat, a little young
Body: light and a tad oily
Finish: Medium to long and smoky, vanilla, full of flavor

I could drink this one all day!

 

Jeff – 84

This dram Jumps right at you, At first the nose and body seems a little young. But, then the light oily body coats your Palate with spicy notes and hints a vanilla. A nice whisky to enjoy by yourself with the lights dimmed and tasting each hidden note.
 

Brett’s take: Rating 87
Fantastic smoke on the nose and finish.  Almost overpowers everything else, but the oak and vanilla do peek through, as does the spice in the body.  Young, but distinctive – you know what you’re drinking the moment you smell it.  If you like the smell and feel of a campsite the morning after a rain, this is the dram for you! 

Available at some Liquor stores.

$$

Glen – 88

A very unique dram that’s very difficult to find. We found a few in some specialty shops in Scotland and quickly snatched them up. The distillery uses unpeated barley in this dram but the whisky still has some smoke. The dram felt older then it is and wasn’t overly grassy that so many young drams have in abundance. A subtle nose greets you with hints of grass, tart apples and charcoal. The body is light to medium and the finish is sharp and intense. Not a very well balanced dram but it all seemed to work exceptionally well.

Nose: Fresh, grassy, charcoal, tart apples, sea air

Body: Light to medium

Finish: Long and sharp, the bite lingers, warming, smoke

Not a dram that you drink all day but perfect for when you’re in the mood for an intense treat.
 

Jeff – 86

Not available in the US

$$-$$$

Glen – 93

A great scotch that starts out sweet and then the smoke begins. A wonderful whisky seemingly made for a flask and enjoyed hiking or fishing. Add water to really bring out the character on this great dram. Offers much more complexity than younger Caol Ila's and is little more tame. Has a sweetness that comes through with it's long maturation process.

I love this one.
 

Jeff – 88

A good dram but always leaves me wanting something more. A nice nose it has a nice light smokiness to it.

Brett’s take: Rating 84
More elegant than the 12-year-old, but loses some of its distinction in the process.  I can see where it’s a “better” malt; more complex, a richer nose (do I detect gingersnaps?  Why, yes, Jess, I do!).  For my money, though, I like the quirkiness of the 12-year-old.

Available at some Liquor stores.

$$-$$$

Glen – 92

This one’s a wow whisky from one of my favorite distilleries. Finished in Moscatel casks this is one of the best of the Distillers Edition range. This is a beautiful whiskey that still maintains that great Coal Ila character while offering more sweetness and complexity. The Moscatel sets off the smoky Coal Ila perfectly and my co-taster and I fell in love with this exceptional whisky. The dram wasn’t too smooth and had a wild side we both enjoyed.

Nose: Clean and fresh, peat, seashore breeze, sweet, red table wine
Body: Light and delightfully sharp.
Finish: A long burn, dry and hot, spicy, smoke, wild

A drink all day, hot & spicy Islay. Caol Ila can do no wrong.

 

Jeff – 91

Not Available in the US.

$$-$$$

Glen – 79

The best part of this dram was its dry smoky finish. The nose just didn’t seem to move me. The nose has a vegetable feel with hints of menthol and earth. The body was light to medium.

Nose: Menthol, melon, dry. earthly, smoky

Body: Medium to light

Finish: Dry and smoky, medium length, a nice fruity sweetness coming through in the end

This one’s all in the finish.
 

Jeff –

Not Available in the US.

$$-$$$

Glen – 82

A complex but tamed Coal Ila that had a marked sweetness to it. I love the 12 and 18 year old expressions due to their fire and classic Islay taste. I found the fire missing with this dram and replaced by more complexity and sweetness. Age seems to tame Islay whiskies a little too much for my taste.

Nose: Subtle, sweet, light smoke, peat
Body: Medium with a sweet character
Finish: Long and dry, sweet, skunk weed, peat smoke

Very good but I miss the fire of the 12 and 18 year old.
 

Jeff – 93

A fantastic dram, Subtle complexities and hints of fruit make this one a winner. Add a splash of water and take in the bouquet.

Available at some Liquor stores.

$$$$

Glen – 88

Jan, 2008
A nice vibrant Caol Ila that has all the characteristics that have made the whisky from this distillery so sought after. Nice balance of peat and sweetness with some subtle spiciness. I really liked this dram and found it very approachable and just seemed perfect for a rainy day. Reminded me of a toned down Lagavulin.

Nose: Peat bonfire, sweetness, simple syrup, anise, floral, cloves
Body: Light and smooth
Finish: Dry and medium length, smoky peat, coastal

Very nice.
 

Jeff –

Available at www.thewhiskyexchange.com

$$ to $$$

Glen – 75

Jan, 2008
Another example of an over aged Islay whisky. All of the Islay character has been replaced with gauze and brine. Lacked that nice balance of peat smoke and sweetness that’s typical of younger Caol Ila’s. The dram improved with water but just seemed uninspired.

Nose: Light and grassy, gauze, peat, iodine, brine, very light smoke
Body: Medium
Finish: Long and sharp, peat, sticky sweetness

Uninspired.
 

Jeff –

Available at www.thewhiskyexchange.com

$$$

Glen – 79

Port Ellen demands a high price since it’s now a silent still on Islay. This whisky reminded us of a Lagavulin light and seemed to improve the longer it stayed in the glass. The nose is smoky, but with a corn syrup sweetness. The dram is medium bodied and had a dry smoky finish.

Nose: Smoky, corn syrup sweetness, charcoal, some subtle peat and iodine, fresh churned butter, some citrus
Body: Medium
Finish: Long, very dry, smoky, some sweetness at the end

A mid-range Islay, nice and not too overpowering.
 

Jeff – 71

Rare.

$$

Glen – 89

A very good dram that shines in its long finish. The more I have this one the more I like it. I may just have to buy a bottle instead of mooching it off my Brother in Law.

Nose: Salt, sea air, sweet
Body: Medium, nutty
Finish: long, salty, distinctive

One of my favorites.
 

Jeff – 84

This Salty little gem grows on you like barnacles on your wooden boat. The fresh sea air fills your nose as the delicate hints of peat fill your mouth. The finish is a little oily but very nice.

Brett’s take: Rating 88
The best thing about the 14 is that it signaled the end of the 8 year old, which was not very good.  The 14, therefore, had an easy act to follow – but they went out of their way to make a really good Scotch anyway.  I nose honey and the seaside, and taste barley and toasted nuts.  This dram has a nice balance of flavors, and a sweet, smooth finish.  About the only thing it doesn’t have is a lock, to keep my brother-in-law out of it!  (As an aside – at the last Whiskyfest New York, the Scapa folks trotted out a bottle of an older expression [25, I think] trying to get us to go out and purchase one.  But they wouldn’t pour any!  Let me tell you something:  for what that bottle probably costs, I’m darn well sampling some first!  Way to Tick someone off, Scapa!)  I do like that 14, though. 

Available at most fine Liquor stores.

$$

Glen – 90

Although only aged 10 years this is truly one of the most exceptional drams on the market. You can always pick up the Talisker influence in the Johnny Walker Blends with its peat and peppery notes. A powerful dram that gets better and better after each sip. A must in any single malt collection.
 

Jeff – 91

One of the top whiskies on the market
A big peppery single malt that gets better with every sip. Hints of salt with a peaty ruggedness to it. Just has everything your looking for in a dram.

Brett’s take: 85
Talisker 10 – Pepper, …, pepper, …, heat, …, pepper.  Just place this and a bottle of Old Pulteney 12 on the table, and you can lose the salt and pepper shakers!  A good dram, but I always think it could be better.  Hold out for the 18 year old; only a little more cash, and a lot more balance. 

Available at most fine Liquor stores.

$$

Glen – 91

Lacks the pepper of the 10 year old but a complex, smooth, smoky dram. Exceptional!

Nose: Light peat
Body: Sweet, full bodied
Finish: Amazingly smoky long finish

Exceptional.

Jeff – 93

A whisky that reminds you why you stated drinking the water of life in the first place. This dram is full of character with it's salty notes, peat nose, to the richness of it's body. Makes you fall in love all over again. Then comes the peppery long finish with a little bite. Like you've been married for 10 years and don't know how to leave.

 

Brett’s take: Rating 79
Talisker Distillers Edition:  I’ve got to admit, I’m a little lost on this one.  Everyone else loves this, but it tastes like a gimmick to me.  None of the flavors seem to marry well.  It’s like I taste the smoke, toffee, syrup, but the sweetness and depth are fighting each other.  Sorry Jeff, but if THIS is marriage, annul me!  

Available at some Liquor stores on a limited basis.

$$$

Glen – 93

Updated Dec/2007
One of my all time favorites and a truly exceptional dram. Amazingly well balanced and complex that opens up incredibly with just a touch of water. The dram has just enough Skye attitude without being overly powerful. Most of the pepper of the 10 year old is gone and replaced with a wonderful fresh sea air quality.

Nose: Peat and heather, fresh sea air, still smoldering ambers and ash, just a touch of sweetness
Body: Creamy and salty
Finish: Long and dry, peat, sweet

Another great Talisker!
 

Jeff – 92

Available at very few Liquor stores.

$$$

Glen –

Jeff – 86

A nice dram, but lacks that Talisker punch that I've come custom to love. It's spicy with a robust lingering finish.

Available at very few Liquor stores.

$$$$

Glen – 77

Heather, smoke and some citrus. Good but doesn’t compare to its older brothers. Comes off a little young.

Nose: Pungent, young, wine
Body: Medium & oily
Finish: Short, oranges, peat

Comes of a little immature.
 

Jeff – 79

Has a nice balance to it, very smooth but isn't in the same league as Highland Park 18

Brett's take: If you like a youthful, heavily sherried, yet vibrant dram, this just might be the one for you. The hints of heather, bitter orange, and ozone in the nose belie a medium, slightly oily mouth-feel. But it’s in the finish where this expression excels. Short, warming, lightly peated, and with an essence of orange cake, it’s the finish that will hook you on this one.
Rating: 84

Available at most Liquor stores.

$$

Glen – 87

A very appealing and approachable Highland Park. Not as complex as the 18 year old but still an exceptional dram from one of my favorite distilleries. This dram doesn’t get a lot of press but it’s worth discovering.

Nose: Nutty, Fresh & clean, malty, a little young
Body: Light and crisp
Finish: Medium length, peat, iodine, very smooth & flavorful

Easy drinking and very enjoyable. I’m a sucker for Highland Park.

Brett – 88

This may seem silly, but this dram was…fun. It’s crisp, light body was preceded by a nose of lightly roasted pecans, malt, and fresh-cut lawn. Not what we expected from a Highland Park. And that carried over to the finish. I’m not sure the Highland Park people would appreciate the comparison, but the 15 year old reminded me of a “Lagavulin light”: peat, iodine, burnt rope, but offset nicely by tart apples and some chestnuts as it wafted away in a very smooth finish. In a word – Delicious.
 

Available at some Liquor stores.

$$$

Glen – 97

One of my favorites. Heather, honey notes and peat, A very well rounded firm dram. Has a little bit of everything and almost seems like a blend of every region in Scotland. A must have in my liquor cabinet.

Nose: Heather, honey, creamy and sweet, peat, toffee, nutty (very complex)
Body: Light
Finish: Long and steady, peat, oranges, fades away with some nice heat

One one my all time favorites.

Jeff – 89

A very good whisky that leaves you wanting more. A complex dram with hints of honey & peat, that has a great finish. Not in my top ten but pretty close. You can't go wrong with this one

Brett's take: As a carnival barker might say, “Alright everyone, step right up!” When “whisky aficionados” (snobs) talk about the quintessential whisky, Highland Park 18 always comes up. And though it pains me to agree with them, they’re right on the money! This is the “it’s-got-everything-you-could-want-in-a-whisky” whisky. The nose recalls fresh mixed nuts, cream soda, cotton candy, heather, and fireplace embers. The body is lightly chewy; substantial, yet not overbearing. And the finish! Muted heat of peat and smoke, some marzipan sweetness, and that trademark orange (peel) essence. This is Highland Park. Rating: 86

Available at most Liquor stores.

$$$

Glen – 90

An exceptional, easy drinking whisky that has an amazingly long smoky finish. The color, which is pale gold, will fool you. This dram is light but has a great nose and finish. Easy drinking and very enjoyable.  

Nose: Pears, light, a warm sea breeze, fresh

Body: Light

Finish: Long, smoky, lingering

Impressive!
 

Jeff – 92

Wow, A great whisky that gets better with each sip. Was pleasantly surprised how complex this whisky was. A very smooth whisky with hints of sea salt, A beautiful nose with a smooth silky body. But, the best is the long smooth finish, like your last piece of lobster, that your not going to share.

The best part it its under $70,
I don't think you could find a 23 year old this complex for such a bargain.

Only available at Bayway Liquors in Elizabeth, NJ

$$

Glen – 85

A sophisticated Highland Park that is much sweeter than others in the range. A complex whisky that isn’t drowned out by the first fill sherry casks that are used for about half of the whiskies maturation life. For me, the sherry doesn’t improve Highland Park but it does add a unique whisky to their range. Lacks that great Highland Park character that comes together so well in the 18 year old.

Nose: Big and sweet with hints of oak, sherry and chocolate, a whiff of smoke
Body: Full flavored and rich (is this a Highland Park?)
Finish: Long and sweet, some peat but not the trademark Highland Park taste

A great dram and by far the most different in the Highland Park range.

 

Brett – 92

Where to start! Very complex, with a nose full of sherry, honey, wet walnuts, hospital gauze, kumquats, and dried spices (yup, all that!), this one perked-up some tired eyes. The 25 year old had a medium body that segued nicely into a beautiful warm, shortish, lightly biting finish full of fresh oranges and lotus cakes. Syrupy, yet slightly smoky, this is the only bottle I took home with me. Need I say more?
 

Not widely available

$$$$$

Glen – 92

A wow whisky that’s complex and still has some of the fire that I love about Highland Park. I still prefer the 18 year old, but this is a very different dram. The longer maturation has tamed the beast but added complexity and smoothness. A dram that should be slowly savored and taken out for special occasions. The smoke and peat are toned down which allows sweeter notes to come through, like honey and fudge.

Nose: Complex and rich, subtle smoke and peat, fudge and a slight honey character
Body: Medium bodied with more of a chocolate sweetness than peat
Finish: Long, flavorful and dry

Special!
 

Brett – 87

Highland Park’s sippin’ whisky. Very subtle, with a (not overpowering) oaky nose, that is also slightly nutty with a vanilla sweetness and musty character. There seem to be different layers of sweetness to the nose that just add to the overall complexity of the dram. The body is crisp and clean on the palate, belying this whisky’s 30 years. This beauty’s smooth finish completes the package – dry, medium-to-short, with apples and that almost omnipresent bitter-orange character. A whisky to be savored.
 

Not widely available

$$$$$

Glen – 72

Not one of my favorites. Almost seems too young. Definite island character. Jura improves greatly in older expressions.

Jeff – 68

Seems to be better then past releases. but still lacks in almost every department, nose, taste and finish.

Available at some Liquor stores.

$$

Glen – 77

Unique bottle will peak your interest and its balance will bring you back. Peat and grassy notes with some sweetness.

 

Jeff – 72

I'm not as a fan to the superstition as Glen. It's more complex than the 10 year old. It has a nice peat flavor. But, still doesn't do much for me.

Brett’s take: 92
Isle of Jura, Superstition – A NICE mix of young and older ages.  Beautifully balanced; you taste the differences within the whisky, but it’s put together seamlessly.  I was so impressed with this when it first came out, that I ordered some from Scotland.  American distribution is sometimes way too slow to keep-up with the whisky market.  But this is now widely available Stateside.  Yay!  .

Availability at some fine Liquor stores.

$$

Glen – 84

Jeff – 88

If you can find it, pick this one. A great Smooth peaty whisky. Everything you look for in an island whisky. Will be very collectable in the future.

Difficult to Find.

$$$

Glen – 76

A very straightforward Ledaig that left me flat. This dram just didn’t get the blood pumping and came off thin and lacked complexity. No peat in the nose and only a whiff of smoke. Reminded me of the line that Bugs Bunny used to say at the close of each cartoon “that’s all folks”.

Nose: Grassy, fresh, light brine, a whiff of smoke
Body: Light, thin
Finish: Short, some iodine and brine, very light

lacks complexity.

Brett – 81

A Highland from the island of Mull, this is a rather simple dram, with a very fresh nose: lightly briny, with wisps of smoke weaving in & out of the vanilla and oak. An exceptionally light body is followed quickly by a short finish of iodine and muskmelon. An aperitif whisky, for those so inclined.

Difficult to Find.

$$$

Glen – 78

Lightly peated. A good inexpensive dram that is under appreciated. Well balanced with a dry nuttiness.

Jeff – 87

On of my favorite drams on a summers night. a light dram that still has complexity and a great finish. It has a touch of peat and a distinct island taste
This one is not going to overpower you. But, it doesn't have too. A great whisky for the beginner and for those who like a dram on a summers night.
 

Available at some Liquor stores.

$

Glen – 92

The ‘other’ Campbeltown that isn’t nearly as popular as Springbank. This dram does Campbeltown justice. The nose had a wonderful fresh and clean salty feel that reminded me more of the ocean versus the Bay. Very subtle and easy drinking but also had plenty of depth and character. A wonderful dram that I highly recommend for anyone who loves Campbeltown and/or coastal drams.

Nose: Fresh and clean, sea salt, vanilla, fudge, nougat, malty, almond extract
Body: Light to medium
Finish: Starts strong fades away and then comes back, lingering and warming, almonds

Brilliant!

Brett - 88

Any day that I can get my hands on a Campbeltown whisky is a good day. Traditionally lighter than its neighbor, Springbank, this Glen Scotia did not disappoint. A very deep, well-balanced dram, it started-off very fresh, full of sea-air, freshly mown lawn, malt, almond extract, and Italian torrone. With a satisfying medium-light body, this whisky was just setting us up for the finish; medium, yet quietly lingering, with an open-air freshness, and the soft sweetness of fresh almonds and light mocha. A delicate, elegant whisky.
 

Limited.

$$$

Glen –

Jeff – 85

This dram made at Springbank has a nice sweetness to it. It's very robust and not as oily as its brother pringbank 10. A nice dram, but not for the beginner.

Available at some Liquor stores.

$$$

Glen –

Jeff – 76

Has a little bit more sherry the other Springbanks from the past. It has a great nose with loads of spice. But, then the body coats your mouth like tooth paste you can't rinse out.

Available at some Liquor stores.

$$

Glen – 94

A remarkable dram that I couldn’t stand when I first started drinking single malts. Truly exceptional! If you own one Campbeltown this is the one to have.

Nose: Sweet, malty, dry
Body: Heavy, oily
Finish: Long, light smoke, spice 

In everyone's top ten for a reason.

Jeff – 81

I have to disagree with Glen & Bret, not one of my favorites. Its oily texture I feel lacks balance. For me I don't think it lives up to the hype nor does it replace the 21 year old. But, as a collector you can't go wrong buying a springbank as an investment.

Brett’s take: 94
Springbank 15 – Don’t believe Jeff.  He was probably drunk when he wrote his reviews (on some Speyside crap, I’ll wager).  This is one of the finest drams available, though it does taste like motor oil.  Although it is a heavy dram, it does have some sweetness, and a great finish.  It is definitely a whisky to savor.  Superb!  Rating=94

Available at some Liquor stores.

$$

Glen – 95

Springbank never disappoints and this one (to date) is the best I’ve tried. This is a big incredible malt that I only wish was more widely available. The nose is tremendous with notes of tangerines, kiwi and burnt caramel. I even noted freshly peeled cucumber skin and nectarines. The finish is long dry and warming. I found that water dulled the nose to much and the dram was better neat even tough it was cask strength. I didn’t want this one to end.

Nose: Tangerines, burnt caramel, kiwi, freshly peeled cucumber skins, over ripe nectarines (a great nose)
Body: Mouth coating (a classic Spingbank)
Finish: Long, dry and warming

A masterpiece!

 

Jeff – 87

Rare

$$$$$

Glen – 88

I bought is bottle on a recent trip to New York City, sight unseen. I broke my rule of always trying something before I buy it, but that’s tough with independent bottles. This whisky didn’t disappoint, it has the classic briny Springbank nose and chewy body but the finish was quite different. This expression has a much more pronounced dry peaty finish then the typical Springbank.

Nose: Sweet, some brine, very subtle peat, burnt vanilla, fresh
Body: Chewy, very flavorful
Finish: Very dry, peat smoke, long and satisfyingly warm with a little kick.

Very nice!
 

Jeff – 82

Available at Park Avenue Liquors in NYC

$$$

Glen – 91

Finished in sherry, this Springbank is special. It has a great nose and finish and you know you’re drinking a Campbeltown with the first sip. The nose was sweet from the sherry with under currents of light peat. The finish was long dry and lightly peated. Even though it’s aged for 31 years it maintains that wonderful springbank oiliness in the body. Water opened it up nicely.

Nose: Big, sherry, burnt caramel, under currents of peat
Body: Oily
Finish: Long dry and lightly peated

Very impressive!
 

Jeff – 92

Limited availability

$$$$$