2. best-of
  3. 986328624

Best single-malt Scotch...

I have to give credit to Redwiki for the inspiration to start this thread. Yes, certain malts better compliment certain music or certain moods. Of the fifteen or so different malts in my cabinet right now, my favorites are: Aberlour "Antique", similar to the popular Macallan, but not as syrupy; a bit drier, light hearted and less complicated; great with Mozart and Brubeck. Mortlach "Limited Edition" cask strength. Powerful, smoky, mysterious. Great with Bartok, Berg and late 'Trane. Loch Morar 25 yr old. Incredibly complex and intense, with a hint of honey and flowers. Great with Poulenc, Stravinsky and Bill Evans. Any other single-malt aficionados out there?
frogman
gliderguider's avatar
gliderguider
294 posts
 
Blended? Pinch, probably. It's been so long... :-)

I had a shot of Johnny Walker Blue in a bar once, courtesy of my boss (it was during the tech bubble, 'nuf said). I was seriously underwhelmed.
redkiwi
1,092 posts
 
I will "third" Gliderguider's list. I rarely bother with Laphroig these days, and if I wander away from the Lagavulin and Talisker, then it is to sample a less powerful, more gentle drop such as the Balvenie or even the Glenmorangie that they mature in port kegs.
gliderguider's avatar
gliderguider
294 posts
 
And let's not forget the cask strength whiskies!

There are quite a number of distilleries that have "cask strength" bottlings, with an alcohol content ranging from 55% to 65%. They can be a remarkably potent experience, from the alcoholic start, through an usually complex middle to a finish that goes on for days :-)

I opened a bottle of Aberlour Abunad'h last night (60%, sherry-cask matured) and I was reminded again whey I like this style so much. It's robust, involving deeply satisfying. Kind of like a really good SET amp.
tombowlus
416 posts
 
Gliderguider is dead spot on with my impressions (to the extent that I have had experience with the brands he mentions). Lagavulin is my #1 fave, but I do stray for variety's sake, every now and then (including single-barrel bourbons and cognac). With regard to blends, the Chivas Regal 18 year old Reserve is quite nice, as is Johnny Walker Blue.

Tom.
unsound
7,332 posts
 
With regard to blended Scotches, I think the best I've had is the Johnny Walker Blue, but one can purchase much better Single Malts for half the price. I do enjoy the Haig and Haig Pinch and even Johnny Walker Black.
More to discover