[Armind]

Slow clap

^ Party at Rallydrv! I'll bring the cigars. :cool:

[Obsideon]

my collection.

getting serious into collecting. been trying not to open bottles till i have 2nd bottle to add to the collection

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v731/tool001/IMG_7630_zps0atky91m.jpg

http://static.comicvine.com/uploads/original/11119/111198831/4557577-4294835091-mog1..gif

[Obsideon]

However the Skull Vodka at the bottom tastes nasty and overpriced. Doesn't belong in that collection :drunk:

[Rallydrv]

However the Skull Vodka at the bottom tastes nasty and overpriced. Doesn't belong in that collection :drunk:

was a gift, so kept it.

vodka wise , i usually drink potato vodka over grain. way smother.

[Ch28]

my collection.

getting serious into collecting. been trying not to open bottles till i have 2nd bottle to add to the collection

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v731/tool001/IMG_7630_zps0atky91m.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/LvkXDu9.gif

[6thGear.]

Nice to see a Scotch/whiskey thread going on here! Read some nice information. I'd post my collection up but not worth taking pics of 2 bottles of Glenfidditch and Aberlour, LOL. Has anyone heard of "The Scotch Malt Whiskey Society"? https://www.smws.com/

[hillmar]

I started getting into whiskey ( Actually all spirits ) collecting and tasting in the last year. And nothing beats a good Dram with a nice cigar on a Sunday afternoon. Hope this hobby last a very long time, here is my current collection.

[Obsideon]

Solid collection, but I absolutely abhor that Chinese wine stuff. It's like a mix of vinegar and gasoline haha.

[hillmar]

Solid collection, but I absolutely abhor that Chinese wine stuff. It's like a mix of vinegar and gasoline haha.

I agree... Usually that's all that gets poured when I have relatives from China that visit! I just close my eyes, and do the throw up face when I'm drinking with them. Lol

[Obsideon]

https://scontent-sea1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/13312632_10157066286685473_8751067181765646882_n.j pg?oh=635d8f473d7e8e043ae68d9115c0e1d6&oe=57C60DE5

Just picked up a few of these.
Super limited they only released 6 cases and that's it for the year.
There should be a couple cases at each Signature Liquor Store. The ones at Bute are almost gone.

I'll save some at the restaurant for anybody that wants a glass ;)

[Rallydrv]

27220My loot from tonight..had asked my friend to pick up 21 and yamazaki 18 a while back..before I bought one myself :S

[Hondaracer]

The signature by my place had 10 cases of the crown northern harvest last week, picked up a bottle.

For the price, I'll drink this over most of the 18 year olds I've got all day long. A very enjoyable drink

[Gallardo]

http://i.imgur.com/W19UBwk.jpg

Big thanks to Obsideon on the heads up. The Green Label's price has gone up $5 since it's limited release last summer.

Store clerk says that a few cases of the Green Label came in just last week.

Picked up 4 bottles of these, a tad expensive but for what it is, it's very very delicious.:nyan:

[Bender Unit]

JW Green Label is another best bang for buck whiskey.
I will definitely stock up couple more

[Rallydrv]

Earlier I had read somewhere that hibiki 12 and yamazaki 12 are being discontinued but thought it were just rumors. Yesterday got an email from place that use to stock these, confirming the rumors. Company will focus on harmony and 17/21 instead

Rip Hibiki 12.

[Z3guy]

^ Hibiki & Yamazaki 12/17/21 are still available, just not in the Canadian market. If you see it available in other countries or at duty free, just buy it.

Harmony is the only sku available for Canada. Also, at the lower price point, we have just launched Suntory Toki.

[rageguy]

http://i.imgur.com/hLEbktg.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/86nweSs.jpg

I found this bottle of Yamazaki 12 in the storage room, according to my family, it was purchased from an airport duty free in the early 1990's. Is this worth anything or should I just drink it?

[Z3guy]

^ you could probably sell it for $100 to $200, but I would just enjoy it. Once the product leaves the barrel or cask, it does not get better with age like wine.

[winson604]

Just drink it, unless you're desperate for money to put food on the table or something you are not going to get enough money to make it worth your while. Unless of course you don't even like whiskey then I guess sure why keep it at all.

[6o4__boi]

^ Hibiki & Yamazaki 12/17/21 are still available, just not in the Canadian market. If you see it available in other countries or at duty free, just buy it.

anyone know for sure if there are still some in Portland area?
I'm going to head down there next month and i'm hoping to pick up a bottle or two.

[Expresso]

Anybody pick up the Lagavulin 8 and is it worth picking over the 16?

[6o4__boi]

never tried the 8
but the 16 is fucking delicious, i just can't imagine the 8 being on the same level
(i'm a peat guy)

[6thGear.]

Has anyone tried the Suntory whiskey Toki at BC Liquor yet? Tempted to buy it soon. Looks to be a blend of Hakushu, Yamazaki, and Chita distilleries.

[hillmar]

Currently in Texas and picking up a pair of crowns for my collection.
Single barrel and cornerstone!

[Gallardo]

So I dropped by at the liquor store today and spotted a lot of the Crown Royal Rye in stock. Which makes me wonder, at its current jacked-up price of $40, is it still a good buy?:ahwow:

Back when it first deputed, it was priced at $30, and it’s considered by many to be a great price for what you get. As the CR Rye can be a tasty daily sipper without breaking the bank. But now the $40 price tag is interesting, because for $20 dollars more, you are in the Highland Park territory. Or if you again pony up a few more bucks, you can have the excellent Johnnie Walker Green Label at $65.

For anyone’s who’s interested, the Kavalan Soloist Sherry Single Malt is in stores for a limited quantity. I’ve been trying really hard to decide if I should pick up the Soloist or try to find the Kavalan Vinho instead… (cueing Obsideon on this one haha) :smug:

[winson604]

So I dropped by at the liquor store today and spotted a lot of the Crown Royal Rye in stock. Which makes me wonder, at its current jacked-up price of $40, is it still a good buy?:ahwow:

Back when it first deputed, it was priced at $30, and it’s considered by many to be a great price for what you get. As the CR Rye can be a tasty daily sipper without breaking the bank. But now the $40 price tag is interesting, because for $20 dollars more, you are in the Highland Park territory. Or if you again pony up a few more bucks, you can have the excellent Johnnie Walker Green Label at $65.

For anyone’s who’s interested, the Kavalan Soloist Sherry Single Malt is in stores for a limited quantity. I’ve been trying really hard to decide if I should pick up the Soloist or try to find the Kavalan Vinho instead… (cueing Obsideon on this one haha) :smug:

Picked up anot her bottle of the crown as stores just had a huge restock. Hear it's a different pour but what the heck $40 is fine. I know $20 gets you in Highland 10 range but relative to % that's a 50% increase from the crown.

[6o4__boi]

Finally got my hands on a Yamazaki 12
I was honestly surprised that it came with a twist cap lol

Went down to Rogue and did the tour and tried their Chipotle Whiskey.
Anyone every try it? I really liked it but I couldn't justify spending $40 USD on it.

[Ch28]

You get the Yamasaki locally?

[Armind]

If so, WHERRRREEEEEEEEEE?!?!

[6o4__boi]

nah, unfortunately not locally
found it in some hole in a wall liquor store in Beaverton

[Armind]

Hmmm... i'll be travelling to Toronto really soon. Any particular stores that I should try my luck on?

[roastpuff]

For anyone’s who’s interested, the Kavalan Soloist Sherry Single Malt is in stores for a limited quantity. I’ve been trying really hard to decide if I should pick up the Soloist or try to find the Kavalan Vinho instead… (cueing Obsideon on this one haha) :smug:

I actually picked this up in Taipei Airport for $90USD... quite a fruity whiskey, smooth bite and has a very sherry finish. Depends on your taste, one of my friends didn't like it very much but he's a peat guy.

[Obsideon]

So I dropped by at the liquor store today and spotted a lot of the Crown Royal Rye in stock. Which makes me wonder, at its current jacked-up price of $40, is it still a good buy?:ahwow:

Back when it first deputed, it was priced at $30, and it’s considered by many to be a great price for what you get. As the CR Rye can be a tasty daily sipper without breaking the bank. But now the $40 price tag is interesting, because for $20 dollars more, you are in the Highland Park territory. Or if you again pony up a few more bucks, you can have the excellent Johnnie Walker Green Label at $65.

For anyone’s who’s interested, the Kavalan Soloist Sherry Single Malt is in stores for a limited quantity. I’ve been trying really hard to decide if I should pick up the Soloist or try to find the Kavalan Vinho instead… (cueing Obsideon on this one haha) :smug:

I actually picked this up in Taipei Airport for $90USD... quite a fruity whiskey, smooth bite and has a very sherry finish. Depends on your taste, one of my friends didn't like it very much but he's a peat guy.

I don't know why but the Crown North has lots it's appeal to me even at the cheaper price point. Especially I was drinking it side by side with my new go-to, the Johnny Green.

In terms of Kavalan I felt that Soloist was my least favourite but it's most readily available compared to the other ones. As roastpuff mentioned it's definitely fruitier due to the sherry cask, personally I prefer that over peaty. If you can pick up a Concertmaster, that is the best bang for buck IMHO.

[Gallardo]

I actually picked this up in Taipei Airport for $90USD... quite a fruity whiskey, smooth bite and has a very sherry finish. Depends on your taste, one of my friends didn't like it very much but he's a peat guy.

Jeezus, even at the current exchange rate, $90 USD is still marginally cheaper than what BC Liquor Store is charging--$199.99 CAD before tax:heckno:

I don't know why but the Crown North has lots it's appeal to me even at the cheaper price point. Especially I was drinking it side by side with my new go-to, the Johnny Green.

In terms of Kavalan I felt that Soloist was my least favourite but it's most readily available compared to the other ones. As roastpuff mentioned it's definitely fruitier due to the sherry cask, personally I prefer that over peaty. If you can pick up a Concertmaster, that is the best bang for buck IMHO.

Thanks for your input Obsideon. The JW Green has been my go-to as well, with the occasional Balvenie here and there. I'll make a point to visit the King Car distillery in Taiwan for a Kavalan line-up tasting when I get the chance. Heard great things about them and that they are delicious.


On a side note, what's with BC Liquor Store lately? they have been jacking up the prices on everything. The Hennessey X.O goes for roughly $189.99 in 2012, now? $269.99. A simple JW Black got bumped from $45.99 to $54.99 in the span of one year.

Other than greed for margins/profits, is it also due to our weak dollar?:alone:

[6o4__boi]

i hate how you have to add tax on top of BC Liquor stuff now

i liked it when i could look at a booze and pay the shelf price
now when i'm shopping around for beer or others, it might look cheap but i always get gut-punched at the cashier

[Gallardo]

So I finally cracked open a bottle of the Crown Royal Rye for a tasting.

This quick review is not intended to point out why I bought it nor am I trying to justify this whiskey's price-point.

In fact, I have trained my palette to distinguish between young and old whiskies, and whether or not it's a blended or single malt. It's gets easier when you practice blind tastings, as certain tasting notes gets etched in memory.

Crown Royal Rye:

-->On the nose, it was harsh. I had to tone it down with a few wee drops of water.
Honey, vanilla, sappy flower petals.

-->On the palette, walnut, green fruits and young tree sap.

-->Finishing note was near non-existent. However, 30 seconds after swallowing, bright fruity tones lingers in the mouth after exposing to the air.



My initial reaction was wtf in a negative kind of way. After a second dram of the whiskey, it was still kind of meh.

I did my best to be unbiased when trying this Rye, but in my opinion, I personally wouldn't recommend this whiskey to anybody to try.

Honestly, if Jim Murrary hadn't named this the Whiskey of the year, I highly doubt this Rye blend will appear on the radar with people jumping on the bandwagon raving about it. Again, just my opinion.

[roastpuff]

Interesting, maybe it's a difference in bottling? CR was trying to cash in on the hype, and the subsequent bottlings are sub-par?

I still have an unopened bottle of the early bottling from last year, maybe it is different...

[Expresso]

What are green fruits?

[Liquid_o2]

What are fruit pedals?

I think the Northern Harvest was a bit overrated, but I suppose I am no Rye expert. I got two bottles last December and everyone who I have given it to try has said it was just OK. Not bad, but nothing to rave about.

[Z3guy]

So I finally cracked open a bottle of the Crown Royal Rye for a tasting.

This quick review is not intended to point out why I bought it nor am I trying to justify this whiskey's price-point.

In fact, I have trained my palette to distinguish between young and old whiskies, and whether or not it's a blended or single malt. It's gets easier when you practice blind tastings, as certain tasting notes gets etched in memory.

Crown Royal Rye:

-->On the nose, it was harsh. I had to tone it down with a few wee drops of water.
Honey, vanilla, sappy flower pedals.

-->On the palette, walnut, green fruits and young tree sap.

-->Finishing note was near non-existent. However, 30 seconds after swallowing, bright fruity tones lingers in the mouth after exposing to the air.



My initial reaction was wtf in a negative kind of way. After a second dram of the whiskey, it was still kind of meh.

I did my best to be unbiased when trying this Rye, but in my opinion, I personally wouldn't recommend this whiskey to anybody to try.

Honestly, if Jim Murrary hadn't named this the Whiskey of the year, I highly doubt this Rye blend will appear on the radar with people jumping on the bandwagon raving about it. Again, just my opinion.

If you are a fan of 100% rye Cdn whiskey, try the AB Premium or Canadian Club 100% rye

[hillmar]

When it comes to Rye and Canadian, my vote is for lot40. I like it a lot more then the crown northern harvest.

[Gallardo]

Interesting, maybe it's a difference in bottling? CR was trying to cash in on the hype, and the subsequent bottlings are sub-par?

I still have an unopened bottle of the early bottling from last year, maybe it is different...

They did afterall ramp-up the production numbers after the initial batch really took off and was sold-out everywhere. We can only hope that their standards of Quality Control is high...

What are green fruits?

Green fruits usually describes the skins of unripe fruits. It alludes to young whiskies, sharp tartness that's often masked behind sweetness.

What are fruit pedals?

I think the Northern Harvest was a bit overrated, but I suppose I am no Rye expert. I got two bottles last December and everyone who I have given it to try has said it was just OK. Not bad, but nothing to rave about.

Typo sorry, flower petals. Floral tones with a subdued hint of sweetness that barely comes through.


If you are a fan of 100% rye Cdn whiskey, try the AB Premium or Canadian Club 100% rye

You are spot-on Z3Guy, I wanted to mention the Alberta Premium as well, but didn't want to digress from my review of the CR. The Alberta Premium is no slouch, I find that it greatly benefits from letting it sit for 15min before drinking like the various Jim Beams that I've had. A metallic but syrupy sweetness appears like no other. Oxidization at play is my best guess, combined with the partial evaporation of alcohol, making it easier to savour.

-->A note to y'all whiskey lovers, never let whiskies that are peaty- sit too long after pouring, a bitterness tend to develop and adding water to it doesn't help very much.

-->Oh, and this is a fun one. Pour a small bit of whiskey in a glass, cover it partially and come back to it a couple hours later. What you'll benefit from is being able to actually taste the whiskey's flavours with the alcohol being absent. Of course, this is my non-scientific method for tasting something without having the alcohol anaesthetizing or numbing your tastebuds.

-->Also, try drinking your dram of whiskey without reading-up on reviews of it first, as it can create a bias. I would for example read about notes of dark chocolate and syrup in a review, and have a completely skewed session with my dram.

-->As I finish typing this post, I am finishing up on a small blind-tasting session that includes the CR Rye...the sharp-bite from this youthful whiskey is very apparent, and I am getting this unpleasant lingering sweetness in my mouth that is akin to aspartame from those sugar-free chewing gums.

[Presto]

The Crown Northern Harvest is currently in stock at the BCL in Langley (64th and 200)

[6o4__boi]

-->A note to y'all whiskey lovers, never let whiskies that are peaty- sit too long after pouring, a bitterness tend to develop and adding water to it doesn't help very much.


i dunno about this
i've got a Laphroaig that's almost a year old and it's still just just as good as the first day i've cracked it open

Have also had a JW double black that's more than a couple of years old and still tasted the same.

Though both of them still have ~2/3 left.
usually when i'm down to the last 1/4, i'll pretty much try to finish it off.

[jasonc]

my collection so far. downsized a bit after a few social events but ill have a few more bottles with time.

also have the jw gold route and royal route in my bedroom. its so beautiful i dont even want to open it :(

https://s5.postimg.org/85nm93q3b/20160823_175652.jpg

[unit]

i dunno about this
i've got a Laphroaig that's almost a year old and it's still just just as good as the first day i've cracked it open

Have also had a JW double black that's more than a couple of years old and still tasted the same.

Though both of them still have ~2/3 left.
usually when i'm down to the last 1/4, i'll pretty much try to finish it off.

i think he meant after pouring into your glass.

[Ch28]

my collection so far. downsized a bit after a few social events but ill have a few more bottles with time.

also have the jw gold route and royal route in my bedroom. its so beautiful i dont even want to open it :(

https://s5.postimg.org/85nm93q3b/20160823_175652.jpg

http://i.imgur.com/cmQe1Ze.gif

[jinxcrusader]

I bought a second bottle of Harvest Rye yesterday and cracked it open immediately.
It tastes different from the glass I had back in July?

[hillmar]

my collection so far. downsized a bit after a few social events but ill have a few more bottles with time.

also have the jw gold route and royal route in my bedroom. its so beautiful i dont even want to open it :(

https://s5.postimg.org/85nm93q3b/20160823_175652.jpg

Nice layout and collection!

On my last 2 trips recently I brought back two bottles for my collection:

On a flight out of Houston airport, I had a sampling of the JW Island green! It tasted more intense and smoky then the original JW green so I picked up a bottle. It was priced at $60 USD.

I was in Jefferson Texas and visited a small liquor store since I had time to burn and noticed they had a Highland Park 18 priced at $109.99 USD. What a steal, even with the CAD to USD exchange rate!
27643

27644

[winson604]

Nice layout and collection!

On my last 2 trips recently I brought back two bottles for my collection:

On a flight out of Houston airport, I had a sampling of the JW Island green! It tasted more intense and smoky then the original JW green so I picked up a bottle. It was priced at $60 USD.

I was in Jefferson Texas and visited a small liquor store since I had time to burn and noticed they had a Highland Park 18 priced at $109.99 USD. What a steal, even with the CAD to USD exchange rate!
27643

27644

I remember it wasn't that long ago that the Highland park 18 was in that price range :(

jinxcrusader - The current stock is a different pour than the OG so it's a bit diff indeed.

[jinxcrusader]

I wasn't sure if it was simply because the pour from a few months ago was because the bottle was opened for a good month and air had altered the scent and notes. I think this thread has confirmed it for me that it is different.
I don't quite like it

[jasonc]

is the island green available at bc liquor?

usually not a johnny walker fan but after trying the green and the gold route i am hooked. kinda wished jw had a better finish. most of them flatten out pretty quick.


cant bear to open my explorers club. its so pretty
https://s5.postimg.org/aha0w3yl3/20160827_161629.jpg

[hillmar]

I know Island Green is available at duty free all over the US. Not sure locally but it's worth a try if your a fan of JW Green label.

[jinxcrusader]

Is there any physical marking/difference between the batches for the harvest rye? Is there a way to tell if the bottle in stores are the new CRHY or the older original run?

[hillmar]

I'm not sure .. Under close examination of a bottle I did find these numbers
L5345 N3 12:27
I'm sure it stands for production and batch number. Which batch is good, I have
No idea.

[racerman88]

Crown Royal Northern Harvest is on sale at BCLDB for $36.99 if anyone is interested.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Rallydrv]

Damn. Tried the crown royal northern harvest first time.. And I very much dislike it, had to mix with soda just to finish my drink. Reminds me of Woodford reserve which I also dislike ...maybe just not in strong rye flavors...

On that note...anybody here like potato vodka over grain.....?

[Eff-1]

It's probably terrible, but I'll still buy a bottle!

Liquormen's Ol' Dirty Canadian Whisky (http://liquormens.com/)

https://pbs.twimg.com/profile_images/653300210966200320/ETTCSUzo.jpg

https://www.thestar.com/business/2016/10/06/trailer-park-boys-whisky-creates-buzz-at-lcbo-launch.html

[Obsideon]

Is there any physical marking/difference between the batches for the harvest rye? Is there a way to tell if the bottle in stores are the new CRHY or the older original run?

A few of us just tried the "new" and "old" batch side by side 2 days in a row.
It's just a mindfuck, it's 100% identical. No one could tell the difference. Blindfolded it's like flipping a coin.

It's now $39.99 but $3 off this month at BC Liquor.

[dat_steve]

Anyone curious to try Drake's bourbon?

Virginia Black Decadent American Whiskey Breaks LCBO Single Day Launch Sales (http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/virginia-black-decadent-american-whiskey-breaks-lcbo-single-day-launch-sales-300342382.html)

ib4 fuckb0i hypebeasts pull a crown harvest on these

[Ch28]

I've read reviews and they've all been horrible. Said the best part of pour was when it went down the drain

[6793026]

what would you use to make a good old fashion?

[punkwax]

Basil Hayden has been my go to bourbon lately which makes a mean old fashioned.

[Obsideon]

Knob Creek

[dat_steve]

I like knob creek or bulleit for an old fashioned. or something a bit nicer like basil hayden if you ease up on the bitters and simple.

[6o4__boi]

i'd go with bulleit
it's the most versatile one imo...not too exp, not too cheap and always smooth

i like my expensive bourbons neat

[rageguy]

+1 knob creek. The Nikka barrel is not bad too. As is the Toki if you want a Japanese Old Fashioned.

[Ch28]

I make my old fashioneds at home with bulleit. It's readily available and won't break the bank and tastes pretty damn good for what you're paying.

[Expresso]

+1 on Bulleit

[6o4__boi]

where do you guys buy your bitters?

[Expresso]

Save on foods online or Gourmet warehouse on Hastings.

[dat_steve]

whole foods has fancier ones like moondog bitters

[hillmar]

Picked up a few bottles during my U.S. trip this month. Really looking forward to trying out the Macallan 15 Fine.
Macallan 15 Fine came to $109 U.S tax in.
Macallan 12 double cask came to $80 U.S. tax in.
and Yamazaki 12 came to $108 U.S. tax in.

[Rallydrv]

booked my tour to Suntory Hakushu distillery during my stopover in Japan .... cant wait.

btw whats popular in Vietnam.. any native Vietnamese alch.

[winson604]

Picked up a few bottles during my U.S. trip this month. Really looking forward to trying out the Macallan 15 Fine.
Macallan 15 Fine came to $109 U.S tax in.
Macallan 12 double cask came to $80 U.S. tax in.
and Yamazaki 12 came to $108 U.S. tax in.

You were able to just get a Yamazaki 12 on your trip and for that price?

[chinesespareribs]

Talking about JW Island Green Just picked up a bottle from the Duty free store. It's only sold there.

[Cman333]

Yamazaki 12 was definitely not my type of whisky. I bought a bottle in Japan ($50 CAD) and found it pretty bad. It's what they use as mixing whisky in Japan.

[roastpuff]

Yamazaki 12 was definitely not my type of whisky. I bought a bottle in Japan ($50 CAD) and found it pretty bad. It's what they use as mixing whisky in Japan.

It feels young and rough, compared to Hibiki/others. Wasn't a huge fan of it. Hibiki more to my liking.

Now, the Yamazaki 18 or 25 on the other hand, has had time to mellow significantly. The 25 was spectacular.

[6o4__boi]

I liked it.
It's a pretty easy-going sipper that's a little on the sweet side but it's a nice break from my usual peaty stuff.

It does lack a finish so I could see why it'd be good as a mixing whisky in Japan.

[Cman333]

It feels young and rough, compared to Hibiki/others. Wasn't a huge fan of it. Hibiki more to my liking.

Now, the Yamazaki 18 or 25 on the other hand, has had time to mellow significantly. The 25 was spectacular.

Yep! EXACTLY. I think I prefer JD or Crown Royal over it. I polished off the bottle while I was in Japan, but it took ALOT of effort to get there. It was more of a punishment rather than an enjoyment. LOL

Don't buy it for $100+, it's not worth it. Even $50 wasn't worth it IMO. I might be jaded because I had pretty high expectations, and everyone was telling me to bring back Yamazaki. So because of the hype and low price I got a bottle to try. I definitely prefer Hibiki for the similar price.

I have had Hibiki Jap Harmony and Master Select and love it. Smooth and easy. No nasty bite on the end.

I couldn't justify $500CAD for Yamazaki 18. I've never tried it. 25 I can only imagine how much it is.

What else do you guys like in terms on easy drinking whisky that's budget (<$100)?

My usual's are Maccallan, Glenfiddich, Aberlour, Hibiki. Jameson's is my get "crunk" drink. I'm not much of a peaty whisky type. Wouldn't mind trying something new.

[winson604]

Yep! EXACTLY. I think I prefer JD or Crown Royal over it. I polished off the bottle while I was in Japan, but it took ALOT of effort to get there. It was more of a punishment rather than an enjoyment. LOL

Don't buy it for $100+, it's not worth it. Even $50 wasn't worth it IMO. I might be jaded because I had pretty high expectations, and everyone was telling me to bring back Yamazaki. So because of the hype and low price I got a bottle to try. I definitely prefer Hibiki for the similar price.

I have had Hibiki Jap Harmony and Master Select and love it. Smooth and easy. No nasty bite on the end.

I couldn't justify $500CAD for Yamazaki 18. I've never tried it. 25 I can only imagine how much it is.

What else do you guys like in terms on easy drinking whisky that's budget (<$100)?

My usual's are Maccallan, Glenfiddich, Aberlour, Hibiki. Jameson's is my get "crunk" drink. I'm not much of a peaty whisky type. Wouldn't mind trying something new.

Easy drinking sub $100 definitely Dalwhinnie 15 imo

[Cman333]

I've heard that too. I'll grab a bottle next time to try

On a side note, Someone brought me back some Ballantines 21 yr. Definitely not my cup of tea. Far better than Yamazaki 12 year though. I think I may not be much of a blended scotch guy.

I got news that Pappy Van Winkle 20 year is releasing Nov 5 for $300 CAD. Extremely limited supplies. Sells for about $100/ounce at bars that have it. Dude at BC Liqour said people likely will be waiting days in advance for it. :S

[6o4__boi]

What else do you guys like in terms on easy drinking whisky that's budget (<$100)?

My usual's are Maccallan, Glenfiddich, Aberlour, Hibiki. Jameson's is my get "crunk" drink. I'm not much of a peaty whisky type. Wouldn't mind trying something new.

Jamieson is fucking horrendous lol
It tastes like vodka to me
I'd like to try other Irish whiskeys though...but a little hesitant to spend the asking going in blind.

Cheap everyday wise, i like J&B and Cutty Sark

Laphroaig is a pretty good place to start if you're interested in peaty. Might be overwhelming at first but it goes so goddamned good with a cigar.

If you've never tried it, i'd recommend Balvenie doublewood. Seems like something you might like based on your usuals. iirc it's under $100 at local stores.

[Cman333]

I've tried Balvenie Double Wood. I enjoyed it, but not enough to put it on my usuals. lol

Like I said, I like Jameson's when I'm getting crunk, not sipping it slowly for the night. I somehow find it easier on the rocks to handle over Yamazaki 12.

And I drink vodka also, but again. When I'm getting crunk. Don't enjoy the taste much, but it's tolerable. Don't drink it on the norm.

I'm just not into peaty flavours, maybe Talisker kicked my ass too much. I don't enjoy cigars either. I can totally see why people enjoy peaty scotch with a cigar though.

Thanks for everyone's opinions. Surprised I never found this thread earlier. Pretty cool to talk to other whisky/bourbon lovers.

[Armind]

Mmmmm balvenie, my go to.

[roastpuff]

Yep! EXACTLY. I think I prefer JD or Crown Royal over it. I polished off the bottle while I was in Japan, but it took ALOT of effort to get there. It was more of a punishment rather than an enjoyment. LOL

Don't buy it for $100+, it's not worth it. Even $50 wasn't worth it IMO. I might be jaded because I had pretty high expectations, and everyone was telling me to bring back Yamazaki. So because of the hype and low price I got a bottle to try. I definitely prefer Hibiki for the similar price.

I have had Hibiki Jap Harmony and Master Select and love it. Smooth and easy. No nasty bite on the end.

I couldn't justify $500CAD for Yamazaki 18. I've never tried it. 25 I can only imagine how much it is.

What else do you guys like in terms on easy drinking whisky that's budget (<$100)?

My usual's are Maccallan, Glenfiddich, Aberlour, Hibiki. Jameson's is my get "crunk" drink. I'm not much of a peaty whisky type. Wouldn't mind trying something new.
Glenlivet 15, some interesting ones that are probably not sold here (Kavalan, Laird of Fintry). I didn't buy the Yamazaki 18 or 25, I tasted them at the distillery when I did a tour there while visiting Japan.

Easy drinking sub $100 definitely Dalwhinnie 15 imo
This one is good too, great value for $.
I've tried Balvenie Double Wood. I enjoyed it, but not enough to put it on my usuals. lol

Like I said, I like Jameson's when I'm getting crunk, not sipping it slowly for the night. I somehow find it easier on the rocks to handle over Yamazaki 12.

And I drink vodka also, but again. When I'm getting crunk. Don't enjoy the taste much, but it's tolerable. Don't drink it on the norm.

I'm just not into peaty flavours, maybe Talisker kicked my ass too much. I don't enjoy cigars either. I can totally see why people enjoy peaty scotch with a cigar though.
Talisker isn't peaty... try an Ardbeg or Auchentoshan!

[Cman333]

Talisker isn't peaty... try an Ardbeg or Auchentoshan!

I have. Ugh. Ha ha. Tastes like camp fire in a glass lol

I recieved a bottle of Talisker Dark Storm, I ended up just selling it a friend instead. Didn't even want to crack it open to try.

I think MAX level of peat I like is JURA. Don't like much more than that. I'll probably eventually develop a taste for it, much like wine. Start off drinking lighter easier stuff and eventually you develop a taste for bolder flavours.

[6o4__boi]

Surprisingly, I've never tried Ballantyne's finest before. Not even the cheap one.
How is it?

[Cman333]

Surprisingly, I've never tried Ballantyne's finest before. Not even the cheap one.
How is it?

For the price I paid, I don't think I would buy it again. It's mildly peaty but lacks any depth to the flavour. Kinda watered down tasting. It's not horrible, definitely drinkable, but not worth $100+ a bottle.

[hillmar]

You were able to just get a Yamazaki 12 on your trip and for that price?

Yeah, I picked up the Yamazaki 12 during last weeks trip. It was a little on the high end for a 12 years old but all Yamazaki bottle prices has sky rocketed after winning the whiskey of the year award a few years back. I usually only buy one bottle per trip due to customs. For me, my favourite 12 year is the regular Macallan 12.

[Obsideon]

Cman, surprised you thought Balvenie was just ok. It is by far my go-to drink as well and it's under a buck, very delicious!
We have similar tastes, I also am not "advanced" enough to be able to enjoy a peaty whiskey. Talisker and Ardberg were very hard to finish haha.

Actually the entire Balvenie line is amazing, haven't had one that I didn't like.
12 Year Doublewood - my go-to.
14 Year Caribbean Cask - sweeter than the rest of the lineup, full of flavour
21 Year Portwood - my newbie pallete can't really tell if this was that much better than the Caribbean Cask lol, pretty similar.
12 Year Triple Cask - currently my daily cuz I picked up a 1L at Dutyfree
12 Year Single Barrel First Fill - This was my least favourite, but it's still very good. It's a bit more smokey.
15 Year Single Barrel Sherry Cask - this is actually my favourite of them all, light, fruity with nice finish

Can't justify or afford the 25 and 30+ years lol

[DA9ve]

Classes | HOPSCOTCH - Canada's Premium Whisky, Beer, and Spirit Festival (http://www.hopscotchfestival.com/vancouver/classes)

anyone interested? i might give these classes a try

[winson604]

Yeah, I picked up the Yamazaki 12 during last weeks trip. It was a little on the high end for a 12 years old but all Yamazaki bottle prices has sky rocketed after winning the whiskey of the year award a few years back. I usually only buy one bottle per trip due to customs. For me, my favourite 12 year is the regular Macallan 12.

Was surprised because Yamazaki 12 has basically been extinct for a while now due to reason we all know as well as price if you were even able to find it was way overpriced. After reading that you basically just grabbed it I looked online at some US sites and to my surprise what was out of stock for as long as I Can remember is suddenly back in stock. I wouldn't mind getting a bottle just for shits and giggles and see what the fuss was all about.

[guurl]

Talking about JW Island Green Just picked up a bottle from the Duty free store. It's only sold there.

how much did that cost at the duty free? $60?

edit: oops nvm question answered just checked previous pages

[6o4__boi]

BC LIQUOR STORES ANNIVERSARY - 20 YEAR OLD CANADIAN WHISKY | BC Liquor Stores (http://www.bcliquorstores.com/product/629410)

anyone pick this up yet?
intriguing for a supposed 20 year old
doesn't seem to say who the distillers are

also, the premium spirit release is coming up Nov 5th
http://www.bcliquorstores.com/flipbooks/spirits/2016/

some interesting ones...most of them i can only dream of having
:okay:

[Armind]

:drool

[punkwax]

@ LAX Duty Free earlier today:

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i199/nodnarb17/Mobile%20Uploads/image_zpskqpjwpov.jpeg

In my kitchen now:

http://i72.photobucket.com/albums/i199/nodnarb17/Mobile%20Uploads/image_zpslkrdpkke.jpeg

Had to. It's a 1L bottle and 750mL here is $290

[roastpuff]

BC LIQUOR STORES ANNIVERSARY - 20 YEAR OLD CANADIAN WHISKY | BC Liquor Stores (http://www.bcliquorstores.com/product/629410)

anyone pick this up yet?
intriguing for a supposed 20 year old
doesn't seem to say who the distillers are

also, the premium spirit release is coming up Nov 5th
http://www.bcliquorstores.com/flipbooks/spirits/2016/

some interesting ones...most of them i can only dream of having
:okay:

Picked one up! Will crack it open and report taste back later.

[DA9ve]

Picked one up! Will crack it open and report taste back later.

got this today, quite tangy with citrus notes. I am not a super fan of canadian whisky but this one would pass as it is very smooth. for a $50 bottle cant really complain.

i wouldnt go out of your way to get it though seems like the whole rack was full of them when i went to BCL in solo

[roastpuff]

got this today, quite tangy with citrus notes. I am not a super fan of canadian whisky but this one would pass as it is very smooth. for a $50 bottle cant really complain.

i wouldnt go out of your way to get it though seems like the whole rack was full of them when i went to BCL in solo

I found it smooth, with very candy-like notes. Lots of toffee, caramel, vanilla, not a lot of smoke or burn. Rather sweet-tasting?

Not bad, but yeah, wouldn't go out of my way.

[6o4__boi]

Got one today too...will try it out later
Still curious who the distillers are. Bottle just says distilled by SL55-1

My laphroaig is almost done and i want a cheaper, peaty bottle i can drink regularly.
Has anyone every tried McClelland's Islay? What are your thoughts?
They're the cheapest single malts available and i tried a Highland one a few years back and for the price, i thought it was pretty good.
Any other recommendations on peated scotch (or maybe even any peated whisky) around $40-$60?

[DA9ve]

Got one today too...will try it out later
Still curious who the distillers are. Bottle just says distilled by SL55-1

My laphroaig is almost done and i want a cheaper, peaty bottle i can drink regularly.
Has anyone every tried McClelland's Islay? What are your thoughts?
They're the cheapest single malts available and i tried a Highland one a few years back and for the price, i thought it was pretty good.
Any other recommendations on peated scotch (or maybe even any peated whisky) around $40-$60?

the person at BCL said the distillery is in Alberta...not sure where exactly


for a $40-60 is going to be tough to find a peaty bottle. The closest i can think of would probably be the bowmore 12 thats on sale right now. its a lighter version of laphroaig 10 but by no means on the same level of smokiness.

[Obsideon]

From you guys recommendation I also picked up a bottle of the Old Canadian Whiskey. Will crack it open tonight!

[6o4__boi]

heard a few recommendations and cheapest one i found is The Famous Grouse Smoky Black which is a blend of Islays and goes for $32.99

Apparently McClelland's are bastard Bowmore's.
I'll probably pick up a Grouse...can't really bitch at that price.

[Z3guy]

Yamazaki 12 was definitely not my type of whisky. I bought a bottle in Japan ($50 CAD) and found it pretty bad. It's what they use as mixing whisky in Japan.

Haha! that's how most Japanese drink their whiskey, heck they drink Louis XIII with green tea. You might not like Yamazaki 12, but the world does, it is so highly sought after countries like Canada cannot get any allocation.

[Z3guy]

Got one today too...will try it out later
Still curious who the distillers are. Bottle just says distilled by SL55-1

My laphroaig is almost done and i want a cheaper, peaty bottle i can drink regularly.
Has anyone every tried McClelland's Islay? What are your thoughts?
They're the cheapest single malts available and i tried a Highland one a few years back and for the price, i thought it was pretty good.
Any other recommendations on peated scotch (or maybe even any peated whisky) around $40-$60?

Not sure which Laphroaig you tried, but both 10yr and quarter cask are very peaty. We just launched Laphroaig Select in private retail. It is a lower on the peat scale and approx. -$10 less expensive. Most consumers either love Laphproaig or absolutely hate it. Select was developed to bridge the smoke gap.

McClelland's is the best value single malt period. It is owned by Beam Suntory so the liquid is the real deal. They produce all their own product and do not buy from other suppliers. McClelland's Highland and Spyside are really good value as well.

[Z3guy]

the person at BCL said the distillery is in Alberta...not sure where exactly


for a $40-60 is going to be tough to find a peaty bottle. The closest i can think of would probably be the bowmore 12 thats on sale right now. its a lighter version of laphroaig 10 but by no means on the same level of smokiness.

It is produced by Highwood Distilleries in AB. They make inexpensive and high quality whiskies.

[Z3guy]

heard a few recommendations and cheapest one i found is The Famous Grouse Smoky Black which is a blend of Islays and goes for $32.99

Apparently McClelland's are bastard Bowmore's.
I'll probably pick up a Grouse...can't really bitch at that price.

Famous Grouse is another great value whiskey, it is a vatted malt, which means they use only Macallan's and Highland Park as the base whiskey. Whatever does not make the grade for Macallan's or Highland Park you will see it in regular famous grouse.

[Z3guy]

heard a few recommendations and cheapest one i found is The Famous Grouse Smoky Black which is a blend of Islays and goes for $32.99

Apparently McClelland's are bastard Bowmore's.
I'll probably pick up a Grouse...can't really bitch at that price.

not sure what you mean by that comment, but that is like saying Toyota's are bastards of Lexus.....

[6o4__boi]

not sure what you mean by that comment, but that is like saying Toyota's are bastards of Lexus.....

read it from here

McClelland's Islay Single Malt Review - The Whiskey Jug (http://thewhiskeyjug.com/scotch-whiskey/mcclellands-islay-single-malt-review/)

Bastard malt whisky (http://www.maltmadness.com/spirits/bastard-malt-whisky.html)

[Z3guy]

^ as the world's demand for quality brown spirits keeps rising and the globalization of the spirits business, you are going to see more interesting products coming out. I can't wait to see how global players like Brown Foreman, Diageo, Beam Suntory are going to be blending bourbons and Single Malts. These are definitely great times to be a whisky lover......

[Obsideon]

Bad times for my wallet lol

[6thGear.]

BCL will be releasing some exclusive Scotches.

MACALLAN - LALIQUE VI | BC Liquor Stores (http://www.bcliquorstores.com/product/793828) RS group buy?

[6o4__boi]

BCL will be releasing some exclusive Scotches.

MACALLAN - LALIQUE VI | BC Liquor Stores (http://www.bcliquorstores.com/product/793828) RS group buy?

taxes in $50,025

we need 750 people to chip in $66.70 for a 1mL swig of the good stuff

Even 14 dolla ballas can get in on this
RS DEAL OF THE CENTURY!

[Rallydrv]

im thinking of picking up some from premium batch from bc lic

BRORA - 37 YEAR OLD | BC Liquor Stores (http://www.bcliquorstores.com/product/874362)

GLENGLASSAUGH - 40 YEAR OLD | BC Liquor Stores (http://www.bcliquorstores.com/product/226183)

BUNNAHABHAIN - 25 YEAR OLD | BC Liquor Stores (http://www.bcliquorstores.com/product/694836#)

http://www.bcliquorstores.com/product/430470#

anything else worth looking 2k-100 range.

anybody know where can i get list of product/prices at vancouver duty free?

[DA9ve]

http://www.theprovince.com/life/food/thirsty+work+weeklong+lineup+liquor+store+spirits+ release/12348460/story.html

[hillmar]

Depending on how high of a percentage the 52 year old highland malt scotch is used, the limited union 52 seems to be the one I'm most interested in.

[Rallydrv]

So who picked up wat today? I'll start

[DA9ve]

So who picked up wat today? I'll start
makes my purchase go to shame FeelsBadMan

on a side note, i was able to try some for free (talisker, dalwhinnie, oban, Pittyvaich, etc.) over at the 39th and cambie store which was a plus!

[Obsideon]

Went this afternoon cuz lazy, nothing left lol FeelsBadMan

Anyway, so I cracked open the 20 Year Old Canadian Whiskey.
I don't like it at all. It's way too too sweet and the finish tastes almost artificial. At least it's very smooth though. Probably gonna end up being my mixer drink.

[6o4__boi]

damn
that's a pretty good haul


The 20 year old Canadian was ok. Didn't like the plastic cork.
I agree with obsideon...it does taste pretty sweet and there's something synthetic in the finish that kinda leaves the same aftertaste.
Wouldn't buy it again. Even regular crown kinda tastes better lol

Side note, just saw Teacher's Highland Cream (supposedly peaty) and noticed it's even cheaper than the Black Grouse. I've never actually heard of it before. Has anyone ever tried it?

[Obsideon]

Friend brought over the Virginia Black a few days ago. You need to pour a drab on the rocks and let it sit for it to open up. Then it tastes pretty good, a bit sweet but not overbearing. Not bad for $50.

[6o4__boi]

so i picked up a bottle of Teacher's

I gotta say for peat lovers, it's easily the best blended out there for the price. It's not overpowering and there some light flavors with the peaty undertone. For a $20 blended bottle I was pretty surprised. Easily my go to blended now, though I will try out a Black Grouse for comparison's sake.

What's your wish list for this season? I'm hoping to pick up a bottle of either Talisker or Ardberg.

[Armind]

Which bottle to pick up after work.. :considered:

[Ch28]

Which bottle to pick up after work.. :considered:

What did you decide on?

[Armind]

As of now, my go to Balvenie 12 double wood

or

Glemorangie 10

But i'm still at work..



What did you decide on?

[6o4__boi]

Tried out Virginia Black over the weekend

It's not bad, currently at $49.99 at BC Liquor Stores
Definitely better than the 20 year old special they had a few months back.

It's pretty good sipper for the price.
I love how at the back of the bottle it says "Not From Virginia"

[Rallydrv]

so on my trip to Vietnam, i choose to stopover in Japan.
main purpose was to take a tour of one of the Suntory distilleries.

I like Hakushu alot, and seeing that it was easier to get to than yamazaki (near osaka), i booked the tour (3 months in advance).

cost was about $240-250 cad (2ppl/express train), plus cab to from distillery, and 10000 yen p/p (tour fee, very cheap!).

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v731/tool001/IMG_8590_zpswaa3xsdi.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/tool001/media/IMG_8590_zpswaa3xsdi.jpg.html)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v731/tool001/IMG_8597_zpsejuhaqvn.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/tool001/media/IMG_8597_zpsejuhaqvn.jpg.html)

was given a english audio/tour handheld guide.
we first walked to building where mashing/mixing and fermentation process takes place. then pot stills, and distillation.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v731/tool001/IMG_8606_zpsna1witxz.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/tool001/media/IMG_8606_zpsna1witxz.jpg.html)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v731/tool001/IMG_8607_zpslvx6oyad.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/tool001/media/IMG_8607_zpslvx6oyad.jpg.html)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v731/tool001/IMG_8611_zpsaxvbf0wc.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/tool001/media/IMG_8611_zpsaxvbf0wc.jpg.html)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v731/tool001/IMG_8610_zpsy5rsx5pw.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/tool001/media/IMG_8610_zpsy5rsx5pw.jpg.html)


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v731/tool001/IMG_8619_zpsasaakiws.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/tool001/media/IMG_8619_zpsasaakiws.jpg.html)


last was where Hakushu is matured. This was just amazing. all the intense smell just overwhelm you.
Some people had to leave the room as they weren't able to take strong whiskey aroma. :lawl:


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v731/tool001/IMG_8625_zpszkezon9b.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/tool001/media/IMG_8625_zpszkezon9b.jpg.html)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v731/tool001/IMG_8650_zps0fbl5bnp.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/tool001/media/IMG_8650_zps0fbl5bnp.jpg.html)


Lastly, the tasting room.
got to take oak cask hakushu (not sold anymore) and others.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v731/tool001/IMG_8674_zpsu9v5onuc.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/tool001/media/IMG_8674_zpsu9v5onuc.jpg.html)

Even Hakushu distillery didn't have any aged whiskey on hand, neither did most liq stores. i bought what i could find + considering i already had purchased a few bottles of other stuff (over limit already :( )..

i picked up a few bottles from various airports and in japan. (missed out on some good selection in Hanoi airport, thinking Philippines airport would have better selection/prices FeelsBadMan)


my haul from this trip..
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v731/tool001/IMG_8732_zpssegr3pbh.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/tool001/media/IMG_8732_zpssegr3pbh.jpg.html)

[dapperfied]

Gimme those Japanese whisky, I need it for my collection!

Cheers fellow lad.

https://media.giphy.com/media/ENagATV1Gr9eg/giphy.gif

[Ch28]

my haul from this trip..
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v731/tool001/IMG_8732_zpssegr3pbh.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/tool001/media/IMG_8732_zpssegr3pbh.jpg.html)

What was the total cost for all that given that you completely went over the alcohol limit?

[Obsideon]

Grabbed a couple bottles of of IWAI Japanese Whiskey from the premium spirit release, it's very light and tad sweet. Easy to drink, not sure if it's worth the $99 price tag though.

[Rallydrv]

What was the total cost for all that given that you completely went over the alcohol limit?

Think about $850-900.
Feel like Oswald & catcher in the rye, every time I see good Japanese whiskey , I have to buy it. :okay:

Never tried iwai, but been liking nikka whiskey.

That said, suntory released brandy recently, I bought one at nrt airport for 50000 yen, but left it with my friend.
https://fasola-assets.s3.amazonaws.com/spree/images/43460/product/XO%E3%82%A8%E3%82%AF%E3%82%BB%E3%83%AC%E3%83%B3%E3 %82%B9(%E3%82%AB%E3%83%BC%E3%83%88%E3%83%B3%E4%BB% 98).jpg?1472177621

[punkwax]

Northern Harvest currently $3 off so $36.99 @ BCL.

[Expresso]

Grabbed a couple bottles of of IWAI Japanese Whiskey from the premium spirit release, it's very light and tad sweet. Easy to drink, not sure if it's worth the $99 price tag though.

I swear I've seen Iwai for like $30 or so in Japan...

[DA9ve]

so on my trip to Vietnam, i choose to stopover in Japan.
main purpose was to take a tour of one of the Suntory distilleries.

I like Hakushu alot, and seeing that it was easier to get to than yamazaki (near osaka), i booked the tour (3 months in advance).

cost was about $240-250 cad (2ppl/express train), plus cab to from distillery, and 10000 yen p/p (tour fee, very cheap!).

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v731/tool001/IMG_8590_zpswaa3xsdi.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/tool001/media/IMG_8590_zpswaa3xsdi.jpg.html)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v731/tool001/IMG_8597_zpsejuhaqvn.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/tool001/media/IMG_8597_zpsejuhaqvn.jpg.html)

was given a english audio/tour handheld guide.
we first walked to building where mashing/mixing and fermentation process takes place. then pot stills, and distillation.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v731/tool001/IMG_8606_zpsna1witxz.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/tool001/media/IMG_8606_zpsna1witxz.jpg.html)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v731/tool001/IMG_8607_zpslvx6oyad.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/tool001/media/IMG_8607_zpslvx6oyad.jpg.html)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v731/tool001/IMG_8611_zpsaxvbf0wc.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/tool001/media/IMG_8611_zpsaxvbf0wc.jpg.html)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v731/tool001/IMG_8610_zpsy5rsx5pw.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/tool001/media/IMG_8610_zpsy5rsx5pw.jpg.html)


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v731/tool001/IMG_8619_zpsasaakiws.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/tool001/media/IMG_8619_zpsasaakiws.jpg.html)


last was where Hakushu is matured. This was just amazing. all the intense smell just overwhelm you.
Some people had to leave the room as they weren't able to take strong whiskey aroma. :lawl:


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v731/tool001/IMG_8625_zpszkezon9b.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/tool001/media/IMG_8625_zpszkezon9b.jpg.html)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v731/tool001/IMG_8650_zps0fbl5bnp.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/tool001/media/IMG_8650_zps0fbl5bnp.jpg.html)


Lastly, the tasting room.
got to take oak cask hakushu (not sold anymore) and others.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v731/tool001/IMG_8674_zpsu9v5onuc.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/tool001/media/IMG_8674_zpsu9v5onuc.jpg.html)

Even Hakushu distillery didn't have any aged whiskey on hand, neither did most liq stores. i bought what i could find + considering i already had purchased a few bottles of other stuff (over limit already :( )..

i picked up a few bottles from various airports and in japan. (missed out on some good selection in Hanoi airport, thinking Philippines airport would have better selection/prices FeelsBadMan)


my haul from this trip..
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v731/tool001/IMG_8732_zpssegr3pbh.jpg (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/tool001/media/IMG_8732_zpssegr3pbh.jpg.html)

how much did you pay for the glenlivet 18 ?

[racerman88]

What do you guys suggest for someone new to the scotch, whisky and bourbon game?


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[rsx]

What do you guys suggest for someone new to the scotch, whisky and bourbon game?


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You just have to figure out what your preference is. Everyone is different. Personally, I prefer speyside single malt. I don't like islay or anything blended.

[roastpuff]

What do you guys suggest for someone new to the scotch, whisky and bourbon game?


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Start with Dalwhinnie for Scotch, Bulleit for bourbon and Forty Creek for blended whisky.

[racerman88]

Someone suggested the Irish whiskies as a good starter too


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[Rallydrv]

start off w/ nothing too complex or pricey, and less peaty. develop on what u like and what u dont. (ie. i can't stand rye whiskey)

go to liq store when they do releases, as u get to try different stock. last bclc release had quite good selection to try out.

hopscotch festival is good also to start. but at times its sensory overload for me, as u need time to adjust to different tastes and to appreciate a good pour.

[Armind]

Glenlivet 12 is a good starter..

I got my buddies hooked on scotch on one of their wedding days.

Glenlivet 18 for breakfast amongst best men that day :drunk:

[punkwax]

Not a huge fan of the Glens myself but I've never tried the 18s etc.

Oban for scotch
Basil Haydens bourbon
CR Northern Harvest is a good whisky

[Ch28]

What do you guys suggest for someone new to the scotch, whisky and bourbon game?


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Definitely recommend the Crown Royal Northern Harvest. It's at a cheap price point, which is perfect for someone such as yourself that is just starting to get into it. I'd recommend against buying any expensive bottles, because you haven't really developed your palette yet and will have no idea what you like. The problem with having this as a hobby is that taste is entirely subjective.

[racerman88]

Thanks for the suggestions, I will look into some of these bottles. Definitely keep recommending more.
I agree that I should start on the less expensive price point for now.


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[westopher]

Glenlivet founders reserve is a really nice mellow step into the scotch world. Not too pricey, a bit easier drinking and fairly balanced to use as a good starting point.
Its on my shelf right now with a Mclellands islay (very smokey and strong, its a bit much for me) and I've got an unknown bottle under the tree to try tomorrow from my wife. Will report back. Its new to me, and just figuring out what I like at the moment. Just about to have a bit of bookers bourbon to try as well as it was a gift from my sous chefs. 126 proof.:pokerface:

[dapperfied]

Currently sippin' on my Lagavulin 16 :sweetjesus:

[racerman88]

I tried some 10yr old Glenmorangie last night and after the first sip I found it to be pretty good. I liked it a lot better neat than with ice.


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[6o4__boi]

^ one does not simply drink single malts with ice

i've never actually drank a single in any way besides neat before. I know some enthusiasts "open" things up with drops of mineral water or something like that but knowing me, i'd probably fuck it up and just dilute it.

[racerman88]

My brother in law brought a bottle of Basil Hayden's Kentucky Bourbon Whiskey for us to drink during the holidays. It wasn't bad but not as smooth like the Glenmorangie scotch. It had a nice vanilla scent but I found it went down a little hard.


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[racerman88]

^ one does not simply drink single malts with ice

i've never actually drank a single in any way besides neat before. I know some enthusiasts "open" things up with drops of mineral water or something like that but knowing me, i'd probably fuck it up and just dilute it.



Like I said, I am new to the game.
I will make mistakes. I think if I had whiskey stones, that would have been better.


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[6thGear.]

Buddy gave me a CR Northern Harvest for Christmas. Must say it surprised me on taste as it wasn't too bad. I also picked up a bottle of Macallan Select Oak at duty free when I was coming back from Scottsdale.

Like I said, I am new to the game.
I will make mistakes. I think if I had whiskey stones, that would have been better.


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My gf got me whiskey stones. I found it did nothing. Neat or rocks is really a preference but depending on what label it will matter whether it is best neat, rocks, or drops of water. At least that's what I've been reading online.

[rsx]

Like I said, I am new to the game.
I will make mistakes. I think if I had whiskey stones, that would have been better.


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You can use ice or add water, it's entirely up to your preference. If you find the alcohol overpowering, then you really won't taste the complexity - that's why people put drops of water. If you like ice use a large cube so it'll melt slower and won't dilute your drink.

[6o4__boi]

Whisky stones aren't bad but i found you'd have to use at least 4, if not all the stones that come in the set to really make a difference...mine was the square one that came with 6.

and it tends to only make the first drink cool, then next is meh and by the third one it has no effect.

Was gonna buy one of those steel balls from winners that usually come out during the holidays but i forgot. Apparently they're better than the stones.

I have a round ice mold that i bought for shiggles to see how it is and it's ok too...there will be some dilution but because it's a pretty big ball, it'd have to be sitting for quite a while to get that diluted taste.

[bcrdukes]

I personally use the King Cube Ice Tray ? Tovolo (http://www.tovolo.com/product/king-cube-ice-tray-2/) for drinks. It's a good alternative to the ice ball and the stones.

[punkwax]

I use the ice ball myself when not enjoying neat. Still melts pretty quick. Good thing I'm not much of a sipper :pokerface:

[bcrdukes]

I've spoken to some people who swear by using distilled water when making ice cubes as the belief is that ice cubes made from distilled water does not melt as fast.

I haven't tried it myself and don't care enough to look into the science behind it, but it's worth a try if you like to sip.

[Armind]

Neat and peat :thumbs:

STFU bcrdukes.

[racerman88]

Any thoughts on Jameson Irish whiskey?


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[dapperfied]

It's alright..

[punkwax]

Only had it with a pickle back to be honest..

[bcrdukes]

There is absolutely nothing wrong with Jameson Irish whiskey.

It's a good whiskey to start off with, considering the price point, to whet your palate and appetite into the rabbit hole of whiskey. Some of their reserves and special editions can be very surprising and understated as well. Get a group of friends and do a whiskey tasting night. Discover your palete and go from there. There is no right or wrong - sometimes, it's just a matter of preference, education, and being open-minded.

Some other notable Irish whiskeys worth trying are Bushmills and Tullamore Dew (fun fact - both cost extensively much more in Ireland/UK than here in North America and are prestigious brands on the other side of the pond.) When you are ready and feeling adventurous, you can stray away from the mainstream and start finding more unique Irish bonded whiskies like Green and Yellow spot, both of which I very much enjoy, but worth the chase. :)

[racerman88]

Thank you.
I like the idea of a whiskey tasting night.


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[winson604]

Thank you.
I like the idea of a whiskey tasting night.


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It's a great way to drink more baller whiskey at a fraction of the price too. Every time me and the boys meet up we do a whiskey and cigar night and split 2 bottles at $100 or more price point between usually 5 or 6 of us which only ends up costing like $40 each. If you end up liking it then go shell out money for a bottle later.

[Rallydrv]

Like I said, I am new to the game.
I will make mistakes. I think if I had whiskey stones, that would have been better.


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Don't let people tell you how to enjoy Ur whiskey. Water ice. Neat..Try whatever u like, their is no set rule.
I prefer some with water.some with ice and some neat , depends on the whisky

[Rallydrv]

I've spoken to some people who swear by using distilled water when making ice cubes as the belief is that ice cubes made from distilled water does not melt as fast.

I haven't tried it myself and don't care enough to look into the science behind it, but it's worth a try if you like to sip.

Some distilleries actually sell distilled water that the whisky is made from, and market it as, Better alternative for mixing than tap water.

[hillmar]

Picked up a couple bottles during the Christmas holidays, Ballentine's 21 year old blended whiskey is on sale at YVR for $121 taxes in at the duty free (They also had the 30 year old on sale too, $350 If i remember correctly.)
Also picked up a bottle of Peat Monster blended malt at the new liquor store located in the back of the new Walmart in Richmond. ($80 ish dollar) Really like the smoke and fruit notes when I had my first Dram.

[Obsideon]

Personally am not a fan of whiskey stones. Got like 3 sets laying around, used them once and didn't bother. Prefer big globes of ice instead.

I got this for secret santa last year, it's a bit gimmicky but I actually enjoy it a lot.
https://static.indigoimages.ca/covers/gifts/418/886245004184_hi.jpg

[6o4__boi]

I'm not a big fan of Jamieson as a "tasting" whisky

It's a good mixer and good all around whisky if you just want to get a buzz but as a taster, it's pretty one dimensional and flat. I find the "better" Irish whiskeys are a tad overpriced.

If you want to host a beginner's whisky tasting night, i recommend picking up blended scotch (or single malts), some bourbon, and some Canadian whisky...Hell, throw some Rum in for good measure.

For Blended scotch, J&B is pretty reasonably priced (same price as Jamieson iirc), Cutty Sark, Famous Grouse, Teacher's (Peaty), Red Label ... all great starters for blended scotch that bring more to the table in terms of dimension vs Jamieson.

Mcllelland's makes single malts that are in the $40-$50 range that may not be the greatest for those with refined palates and experience, but if you wanted to start of somewhere in the world of single malts, it never hurts to start off with something cheap as you try to develop a taste for things. Keep an eye out for different scotch regions as each will have their own distinct taste.
Personally, I'd recommend Auchentoshan as a starter single malt. It's balanced and pretty easy-going and is around $60-75.

Bourbon - Bulleit is great as a starter bourbon. Buffalo Trace is also a pretty good bourbon to start with. Jim Beam is on the cheap end and I'd recommend if you just wanted bourbon for the sake of having bourbon. Lots of other "higher end" bourbon out there as well but for the sake of affordability, those three pack a good dimensions for the value imo.

Canadian (or Rye-based) whiskey - I'd recommend Bulleit's rye...i thought that was a good sipper. Crown is surprisingly decent as a sipper despite a lifetime of always chugging it down or pouring it with coke. JP Wiser's is decent for the price...though they do have better editions that are cheaper than scotch. I can't remember the last one i drank, might've been the 18 or 20 year old but I thought it was solid for a $60ish bottle.

I've been getting into Rum the last couple of years after trying Kraken for the first time. I'd recommend it...pretty easy to drink. Sailor Jerry's is a great rum to get fucked up on and is pretty rough around the edges but has some good flavor. My go to rum the last little while has been English Harbour and El Dorado 12 year. The El Dorado is my favorite of the bunch and is a nice sipper with awesome value...it's $31.99 which is amazing for aged rum that's not Bacardi.

so...you gonna invite RS to the Whisky tasting night or what?

[punkwax]

Kraken and SJ are both spiced rums..

Just had a glass of Flor de Cana which is a 5 year aged rum. Easy drinking would recommend.

[roastpuff]

Kraken and SJ are both spiced rums..

Just had a glass of Flor de Cana which is a 5 year aged rum. Easy drinking would recommend.

Flor de Cana is good. So is Ron Zacapa - the 25 is only $50USD or so and it's a great sipping rum. I'd put it up against a 12 year old Scotch for taste.

[pharmed]

Flor de Cana is good. So is Ron Zacapa - the 25 is only $50USD or so and it's a great sipping rum. I'd put it up against a 12 year old Scotch for taste.

Haha you hit the nail on the head for your picks! Top two in this guy's review.

10 best rums | The Independent (http://www.independent.co.uk/extras/indybest/food-drink/best-rums-2016-dark-mojito-daiquiri-a7187561.html)

Got this for Christmas, and it's awesome. Chocolate in a bottle.

http://www.drinksdirect.co.uk/acatalog/glenmorangie-signet-highland-single-malt-whisky.jpg

[Eff-1]

With whisky stones, I find it is a case of you get what you pay for. I received some free ones from Hopscotch a couple years ago and they were a total waste of time. For xmas this year I received one made of pure jade and it's remarkably more effective. That being said, I don't really enjoy sipping my drink with the stones in the glass, so once the whisky has chilled I usually remove it.

[Obsideon]

Picked up a couple bottles of the IWAI Japanese whiskey from the November release. It's a bit on the sweeter side but very smooth. Not sure if it's worth the $95 price tag though.

[Armind]

How much is Hibiki 17 in HK? Coworker going vacay, gonna ask if he can grab me a bottle.

[Bender Unit]

How much is Hibiki 17 in HK? Coworker going vacay, gonna ask if he can grab me a bottle.
You will not find any aged Hibiki in HKG Duty Free.
Last I checked was Feb. 2016

He need to dig deep in local store, but price will be sky high

[Armind]

He's saying it's about $400 CDN

[hillmar]

So just got back from a business trip to Saskatoon where I picked up a couple bottles.

1) Ardbeg Uigeadail $119.99 + tax ( its $10 cheaper there, not much of a savings but always wanted to give this a try.) Cask Strength + Peat + Sherry= can't wait!

2) Glenfarclas 21 years $116.99 + tax ( A great bargain for anybody wanting to try a old single malt scotch for a reasonable price in today's market! Saving this one for a special occasion.)

3) Old Pulteney 17 years $138.49 taxes in.( Bought this bottle at Cloud 9A Liquor in the Calgary airport on the way home, This bottle was on my to get list for a very long time, but I wasn't ready to spend over $200 dollars for it over here.)

They also had the Glenmorangie Milsean at Cloud 9 for $118.00 taxes in... tempting, maybe I'll pick it up next time I fly in.

[Bender Unit]

How much is Hibiki 17 in HK? Coworker going vacay, gonna ask if he can grab me a bottle.

Hibiki 17 years is $2490 HKD at local market.

[Rallydrv]

can anybody source Yamazaki Sherry or 25? im trying to find pricing,,

anybody try brora 35/37? distillery closed down but they did some release of leftover barrels a few years back.

[hillmar]

can anybody source Yamazaki Sherry or 25? im trying to find pricing,,

anybody try brora 35/37? distillery closed down but they did some release of leftover barrels a few years back.

Those are going to be some hard bottles to find, even if your willing to shell out big dollars. When I was in Pensacola Florida last year, a small liquor store received one box of Yamazaki 18 and sold them for $190 US. Sold out within a day once news spread about the shipment.

On another note, I just got back from a business trip from Atlanta and was able to locate the Nikka Taketsuru 17 year old for $175 USD + Tax. Unfortunately, another bottle caught my eye and I picked up a super deal on a bottle of De Luze Extra Delight Cognac for $65.00 USD + Tax. (De Luze Cognac was one of those rare bottles that I always wanted to try but was never able to find. I'm not sure if it was a pricing error, but this was the flagship cognac of De Luze and way above their XO version.... Now only if I can find a bottle of Martell's Grand Creation for a good price).
I'll try to pick up the Nikka 17 the next time I fly into Atlanta.
On the way back, I connected through Denver and bought a bottle of Glenfiddich Vintage Cask for $110 USD at the Duty Free. Worker informed me that Glenfiddich has released a smokey peated whiskey only twice in their history.

[Rallydrv]

got my friend to pick up yamazaki single cask, sherry butt (distilled in 98. bottled in 2011) ., heading in april, will get a hold of it. next on the line is yamazaki 25 also on list will be nikka


http://media11.evershop.com.tw/gS2IH47_oDDWgULuewtyDWo34aU=/fit-in/600x0/http://media.evershop.tw/p/L8/products/227423582/68adb0382c244abc941169c54f9bc1b7.jpg

[hillmar]

Good find, I thought you were searching for the Yamazaki sherry Cask bottles. I know I was hunting the 2013 release after they won the whiskey of the year. Looked for it a few years back when I visited Osaka, but no luck.

[Rallydrv]

^ was, choose this a little different and more rare. will look for 25 year old. (been an expensive month.

here's my jap whiskey collection (minus a few i forgot a i had)




fuck i need to stop buying these :P

[Armind]

Fuck, a buddy is in Japan atm and can't find Hibiki 17 (he will only drop in a liquor store if he sees one, not search for it).

:okay:

[Rallydrv]

^ yah, it was hard to find.. my jap friend called around a dozen, non had.

i can only speculate, Nikka will be going same route as Suntory. Next few year will be hard to find. so if u can grab some now, go for it.

[Armind]

Wanna sell me one for my collection? =)

[Expresso]

Rallydrv, you have a lot of disposal income!

[Rallydrv]

^ no just investing in my retirement :D

[winson604]

Fuck, a buddy is in Japan atm and can't find Hibiki 17 (he will only drop in a liquor store if he sees one, not search for it).

:okay:

That shits like finding a unicorn. The small baby bottles are easy to find but a full size bottle is rare now.

I'm in honolulu right now and I swear every bar I've been to has Hella Yamazaki and hibikis like it's nothing but you still can't find them to buy without being raped. Called and place and they were selling Yamazaki 12 for 300US lol no thanks

[Rallydrv]

Was in the US for the weekend, went to total wine &more, fcuk I think I spent couple of hours in thr whisky and spirit section. Anyways picked up a few bottles. Can't wait to try Glenfiddich experimental series . Missed the XX (everything sold out) however picked up 2 IPA casks bottles.

[DA9ve]

Was in the US for the weekend, went to total wine &more, fcuk I think I spent couple of hours in thr whisky and spirit section. Anyways picked up a few bottles. Can't wait to try Glenfiddich experimental series . Missed the XX (everything sold out) however picked up 2 IPA casks bottles.

thats awesome, im heading to bellevue this weekend. ill make sure to check out total wine

[hillmar]

Just got back from Paris yesterday and picked up a few bottles during my trip.

Glen Deveron Highland Single Malt 30 year old. $199 CAD (No Tax) This is part of the Royal Burgh collection and is 30 years old. If you can pick up a very old scotch for a very decent price, I say do it. Older scotches are becoming more expensive and more rare with the NA statements becoming main stream.

Aberfeldy Highland Single Malt 18 year old. $100 euros (No Tax) Wasn't expecting to pick this up, but after a tasting at the duty free it changed my mind. I've tried the 12, 16 and 21 before but this one is smoother and richer. Complex, sweet, and goes down with no alcohol burn whatsoever. I remember walking around the duty free with the taste lingering on for over 20 minutes.

Canadian flower icewine. $39 CAD (no tax) I know this is not scotch, but bought it on impulse. Lots of talk about our Canada Icewines of late as being the worlds best so decided to see what all this fuss is about. The wine is from the Pillitteri’s Reserve in Ontario.

[Rallydrv]

]I really like Glen deveron. However never tried the 30 yo

[DA9ve]

Was in the US for the weekend, went to total wine &more, fcuk I think I spent couple of hours in thr whisky and spirit section. Anyways picked up a few bottles. Can't wait to try Glenfiddich experimental series . Missed the XX (everything sold out) however picked up 2 IPA casks bottles.

was able to snag these at Total Wine. the Hibiki was at a random japanese store

[6793026]

https://www.pressreader.com/canada/vancouver-sun/20170320/281818578649846

Japan's Prized Whisky article.

[Rallydrv]

I'm traveling with stops in Japan, Korea, and India. Will transit thru Frankfort ( apparently the cheapest duty free)

Picked up yamazaki sherry limited that my friend bought, nikka 12,macallan, and in bangalore picked up amrut fusion. Delhi airport had amrut for $90 us whereas local shops in bangalore are selling for way lower.

I'm kinda hoping to resist temptation of picking something up in Germany. :(

will try to arrange for a distillery tour of Amrut, they have scored pretty high for thr whiskeys

[hillmar]

Wow nice haul, especially the Macallan Oscuro. I heard its going to be discontinued.
Let us know how the tour went in Amrut. There is a trip penciled in for me to fly to Inverness, Scotland later in the year... I'm really hoping it doesn't get cancelled!
As for me, Just got back from Houston and picked up 2 bottles.....
Dalmore 18 $109 USD Tax Included at the ATO duty free in Houston.
Lagavulin 2016 Distillers Edition $108 USD Tax Included at the Costco in Houston.
Next week I'm off to Paris... maybe a nice bottle of Dom Perignon or maybe another nice bottle of Scotch or Cognac?! We'll see!

[Armind]

Mmmm Lagavulin

[hillmar]

Just got back from France.... what a long trip!
I had a few days to explore and shop around for whiskey during my stay and got pretty lucky! I visited a local supermarket, and happen to find 2 bottles of Laphroaig 18 hidden in the back of the shelves. Both bottles are 2011 vintages and came with the green tubes.
I paid 70 euros taxes in (about $100 CAD) per bottle, what a steal! Other prices to note:
Lagavulin 16- 48 euros taxes in ($70 CAD)
Longmorn 16- 79 euros taxes in ($115 CAD)
Scapa 16- 48 euros taxes in ($70 CAD)

[6o4__boi]

Goddamn, I'd kill for some Laphroaig right now.

[6793026]

Laphroaig is a very unique taste. A lot of friends either don't enjoy it at all or truly is a fan. Great find!

[6thGear.]

Just got back from France.... what a long trip!
I had a few days to explore and shop around for whiskey during my stay and got pretty lucky! I visited a local supermarket, and happen to find 2 bottles of Laphroaig 18 hidden in the back of the shelves. Both bottles are 2011 vintages and came with the green tubes.
I paid 70 euros taxes in (about $100 CAD) per bottle, what a steal! Other prices to note:
Lagavulin 16- 48 euros taxes in ($70 CAD)
Longmorn 16- 79 euros taxes in ($115 CAD)
Scapa 16- 48 euros taxes in ($70 CAD)


You sure travel to france a lot

[hillmar]

You sure travel to france a lot

Yeah, I have to head back early May! Food is good over there, but I'm starting to get tired of traveling there!

[hchang]

Yeah, I have to head back early May! Food is good over there, but I'm starting to get tired of traveling there!

Let me play a song for you on the world's smallest violin

#FirstWorldProblems

[CCA-Dave]

Friend and client of mine gave me a bottle of George T. Stagg. Definitely not my usual flavour profile, but wonderful all the same.
http://www.buffalotracedistillery.com/sites/default/files/Antique-GTS_0.png

[Rallydrv]

Picked a few goodies.. Amrut r 94/97 pts and above. Nikka white is discontinued.

And saw this in Edmonton. Wth.. $16xx for yamazaki 18 ~$350 for nikka 12

[winson604]

Lol $1600 for the 18? Friends just grabbed that from Japan last month for like $500 and even that's overpriced

[Ch28]

Girlfriend is leaving for Japan this weekend and she asked me if I wanted anything. Obviously, the first thing that comes to mind is whiskey.

Has anyone been back to Japan recently and can tell me where a good spot is to pick up some whiskey? I'm thinking some Yamazaki or Hibiki. She'll be in Tokyo, Osaka, and Okinawa. I've never been to Japan myself, so hopefully someone can chime in

[Expresso]

It's hit or miss. Best advice is to compile a list of small liquor stores and hit as many as you can. Pretty sure none of the big box stores like BIC/Yodobashi etc... will have them.

[Armind]

My colleague just came back from Japan, he said it's literally impossible to find Hibiki's. From his knowledge, they're discontinuing the puny Hibiki bottles too. :okay:

[Rallydrv]

^ i go to japan 1-2 times a year. its been harder and harder to get any, and prices have gone up considerably.

Hibiki 12/Yamazaki 12 have been or are in process of being discontinued as they are focusing on 18/21/25 and Harmony

As i mentioned earlier, even the Distillery didnt have any aged stock. the stores that do have , are selling at premium.

YAMAZAKI 18 is around $500 US/650 cad in japan

[Expresso]

I didn't see any mini Hibiki 17s this year, last year they were everywhere.

Best I could find were mini Yamazaki 12s.

[CCA-Dave]

Friend just gave me a bottle of E.H. Taylor Single Barrel. Time to try it out...

https://www.mybottleshop.com.au/media/catalog/product/c/o/colonel-eh-taylor-single-barrel-mybottleshop-01.jpg

https://www.buffalotracedistillery.com/brands/eh-taylor#1

[hillmar]

If I knew they were getting more scarce I should have picked up more Yamazaki 12 and Hakushu 12 last month at the Paris duty free. They must have had 12 bottles of each for 95 euros ($150 CAD).
When I went through on Thursday, they have already sold out.
Anyways, this is my haul after a long 3 weeks in France.
Scapa 16 the Orcadian $49.20 euros tax in ($75 CAD)
Knockando 21 1994 distilled $78.80 euros tax in ($120 CAD)
Glenmorangie extremely rare 18 $94.50 euros tax in ($150 CAD)
Glenfiddich 21 Reserva rum cask $144 euros tax in ($220 CAD)
Pretty happy the Kockando came with 2 Glencairn whisky glasses.

[Ch28]

GF picked up a bottle of Hibiki Harmony for me. It ended up being $65 CAD after conversion. Pretty good deal considering it goes for $120 pre tax locally

[Obsideon]

Yeah I saw it for that price in Hawaii. Even though I only had 1 day left I bought it anyway cuz I figure even if I drank half of it would still be more worth it than buying it here lol.

Polished it :drunk:

[Rallydrv]

i just opened bottle of Hakushu .. though i like Yamazaki, feel like hakushu even better. i love how complex it is over yamazaki, low on sweetness with little spice and smoke. of course the peat.


that said. on the other side of the spectrum , i really like Aberfeldy , even over my go to Aberlour ,

Glenmoragie .. i hated it . short , unimpressive. felt drinking a young whiskey.

[6thGear.]

+1 for Aberfeldy 12. Good bang for the buck. I've recommended it quite a few times to friends already.

[6o4__boi]

I bought a bottle of Black Grouse thinking it'd be somewhat similar to Laphroaig in terms of smokiness

it's pretty disappointing, weaker than Teacher's. I guess you really gotta open up the wallet if you want that peat/smoke.

Johnny Walker Double Black is pretty smokey...but at the price point, you're better off spending the extra $20 to get a single malt.

[Eff-1]

Agreed on the Aberfeldy 12. Easy drinking. Great value.

[Rallydrv]

Not mine.lol

[hillmar]

If there was a high end whiskey shortage, he will last years!

[Ch28]

All the money for that whiskey, yet he can't afford to buy a proper camera.

[Rallydrv]

I finally secured my cabinets to the wall, so they don't tip over. But don't have any room for half of my stock. I'm not allowed to buy more shelving...

I'm thinking of using these and bass guitar strings to make shelves more secure

[Rallydrv]

Free whiskey tumblers at bc liquor upon purchase of macallan gold, double cask etc. Had about 10 left, macallan and few other brands, at Broadway cambie loc yesterday

[hillmar]

Free whiskey tumblers at bc liquor upon purchase of macallan gold, double cask etc. Had about 10 left, macallan and few other brands, at Broadway cambie loc yesterday
Thanks for the heads up, was able to pick up 2 Macallan Glencairn glasses a few weeks ago prior to my trip to Atlanta. Picked up 2 bottles of Japanese whiskey during my trip in Atlanta... pretty expensive but a fair price in today's market.
1) The Hakushu 12 year old. $100 USD incl taxes.
2) Nikka Taketsuru pure malt 17 years old. $200 USD incl taxes.

They also had the Nikka Taketsuru pure malt 21 year old for $250 USD incl taxes. Debating if I should pick it up during my next trip to Atlanta.

[Bender Unit]

Whisky Party at my friend's home these past 2 weekend

Green Label 15
The Glenlivet 15
Macallan 12
Dalmore 12

~ that Dalmore 12 was so spicy and not much of taste. Nobody like it & left half bottom untouch.

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[6o4__boi]

picked up a bottle of the Bowmore No. 1 last week

not sure what the age was but I liked the subtle sweetness mixed in peat

[Rallydrv]

So after finding a white Rabbit. Nikka Pure malt white.



I found 2 more. Nikka taketsuru 12 went out of production due to stock in favor of NAS taketsuru. Indication are yamazaki and hibiki will be going same route. Came with parafilm paper. Next will be visiting yamazaki distillery in Nov

[DA9ve]

So after finding a white Rabbit. Nikka Pure malt white.



I found 2 more. Nikka taketsuru 12 went out of production due to stock in favor of NAS taketsuru. Indication are yamazaki and hibiki will be going same route. Came with parafilm paper. Next will be visiting yamazaki distillery in Nov

i think suntory stuff is already limited with the aged whiskies and Nikka is slowly out as well. I was in Japan in May and the Yamazaki distillery did not disappoint.

ill post a pic of the price list when i have a chance but it was very reasonable.

[DA9ve]

i think suntory stuff is already limited with the aged whiskies and Nikka is slowly out as well. I was in Japan in May and the Yamazaki distillery did not disappoint.

ill post a pic of the price list when i have a chance but it was very reasonable.

found it, enjoy!

[hillmar]

Currently in Scotland... drove up to Dalmore and Glenmorangie distillery today! Had a good time at glenmorangie and bought some goodies fresh from their distillery. Next stop Belvenie, Glenfiddich and Glenlivet next weekend!

[DA9ve]

Currently in Scotland... drove up to Dalmore and Glenmorangie distillery today! Had a good time at glenmorangie and bought some goodies fresh from their distillery. Next stop Belvenie, Glenfiddich and Glenlivet next weekend!

thats awesome.

how much was the copita glass with the lid?

[hillmar]

thats awesome.

how much was the copita glass with the lid?

They were £5 each.

[Ch28]

Had some Oban 14 the other night and it was ridiculously good

[hillmar]

What a long day, first I hit Glenfiddich in the morning and did the tour for £10. Then went to Belviene (across the street from Glenfiddich). Drove up to Glenlivet and did that tour for also £10. Then visited the Aberlour distillery and then Macallan(unfortunately the visitor centre was closed and major construction was going on). I'm done with going to distilleries for this trip, but I'll hit some more during my next trip.

[hillmar]

Just got back on Wednesday and it was a very fun and informative trip to Scotland. Going to be headed back at the end of the month and looking forward to visiting a few more distilleries. On my trip to Scotland I was introduced to independent bottlers and the value they give to people who really want to try very old drams at a reasonable price.
Picked up a 25 year old (distilled in 1988 and bottled 2013) Highland Park and a 8 year old Highland park, both Gordon & MacPhail bottling.
Cost $250 CAD for both... going to head to their distillery on the next trip and try to hunt down a 25+ year bottling of Macallan.

[Rallydrv]

Picked up in Calgary. Amrut fusion was $79 after taxes. Bcliq has listed for $91 + tax Wat a ripoff


That said I'm almost done amrut single malt. @56%, amazed that it spends only 4-6 years ageing. If u guys get a chance try it. Pretty awesome.

[hillmar]

Really need to try out Amrut single malts someday... It seems to be getting really good reviews!
Been back from my second trip to Scotland for a few weeks now. Had the opportunity to revisit Macallan Distillery, but the new Discovery center isn't finished yet. I have a picture of it, its getting close to completion though.
Spent a day exploring Dufftown... and went to the local bar. Wow, what a scotch selection! Tried a few Drams recommended by the bar tender.
On the way home, picked up a bottle of the Dalmore 18- Vintage 1998 from the Distillery and found 1 last bottle of the 1988 G&M 25 year old Highland Park in Elgin.
Overall a good trip but if I have to return for a 3rd trip this year, I'm going to see if I can spend 3-4 days in Glasgow and drive to the Islay.

[- kT]

just finished this off tonight


https://scontent-sea1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/21558609_10154774131376714_4976133213587866568_n.j pg?oh=56e38cc04a3dda496ba4fc4d07ec1e25&oe=5A586971

bittersweet

[Obsideon]

Picked up a bottle of Strathisla 12 year on a friends recommendation. It was only $55 bucks. Taste was clean and smooth, not bad for a budget scotch.

[hillmar]

Picked up a bottle of Strathisla 12 year on a friends recommendation. It was only $55 bucks. Taste was clean and smooth, not bad for a budget scotch.
Yeah, I find sometimes my most memorable and favorite scotch experience isn't the most expensive.
I was connecting through Chicago's airport yesterday and found one of the rare unicorns I've been searching for over 3 years now at the duty free.
Not sure if they found a few bottle in there warehouse, but it was amazing luck and they sold it close to retail.
Finally found the Crown XR Waterloo bottle (the distinctive red box) $168 USD.
The search still continues for the Macallan Cask Strength 58.2%.

[6o4__boi]

for you peat lovers out there, you have to pick only one of

Ardberg 10 years
Laphroaig Quarter Cask
Talisker Storm

which one would you pick?

[Rallydrv]

^ hard one,

Laphroaig, but then again, depends on price.

try Hakushu 12 if u can get ur hands on it!

[hillmar]

Out of those, I'd choose the quarter Cask as well.

[Obsideon]

Sorry but Talisker literally tastes like a burnt cigar. I'm too green to handle that type of peat lol

[6o4__boi]

I've only ever had Talisker once...and i was already a few drams in of other kinds so I couldn't really remember

I got a bottle of Laphroaig Quarter a couple of years ago and it's honestly my favorite everyday bottle all time. I could drink it everyday til my liver gives up on me.

Ardberg was recommended to me, but i've never had it

How does the Talisker compare to say, Johnny Double Black? Harsher?

[Rallydrv]

add this to my Suntory collection



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[Rallydrv]

i visited amrut distiallry while visiting india earlier this year.

tour was free, and very thorough, u get to see the mashing process, they open up the 4-5 stills for u to smell moonshine at various days before its distilled. the only sad part was not being able to try the finished product (no lic. to sell taste liq on site) however i did sneak in a tasting of the moonshine :P

Amrut single malt @ 40 and @ cask strength are amazing. Due to the heat in souther parts of india whisky doesn't need to be aged alot to get the same depth in flavor as oppose to other aged stuff
Fusion, i haven't tried yet is rated very high, some other limited ed.are pretty hard to come by (port pipe, double cask, peated).




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[DA9ve]

What did everyone get for the BCL 2017 premium release? I thought the selection this year was kinda disappointing. Only managed to get the Ledaig 10 which turned out better than expected for the price.