April 06, 2005
A Wee Nip
I have to say it again. This is the stuff to give the lads:
The Highland malts - Glenfiddich and the like, are just fine in their way and I wouldn't say no if offered a glass, but there is something about that peaty, smokey Isle of Islay flavor which just sets the Froyg head and shoulders above everything else I've ever tasted.
Recently, I had a bit of an education about some other Island malts. I had never associated the Island of Scapa in the Orkneys with anything in my mind other than the fact that it was there that the Jerries bagged the Royal Oak. But it turns out there are two distillaries there, Scapa and Highland Park. My God-brother (if you will) gave me a bottle of Scapa 10 year old for my birthday. We tried it together. Frankly, well, eh. Not much there. However, after Easter Dinner, my God-father had me try the Highland Park 18 year old. Much better, with a taste that, although still fairly subtle, hits you right on the front of your tongue.
All in all, tho, I think I'm staying on Islay.
UPDATE: Heartfelt Highland Yips! to "Chip" over at the Hatemonger's Quarterly, who knows a thing or two about stocking a bar as evident from this past weekend's First Anniversary Celebratory Bash. (A reminder to Kathy and my other fellow guests: What happens at THQ stays at THQ! Yip! Yip!)
Skye. Talisker. That is all.
Posted by: Dave Schuler at April 6, 2005 01:58 PMNot familiar with it. Journalistic integrity demands a fact finding expedition, I think.
Posted by: Robert the LB at April 6, 2005 02:22 PMMy sister's Tartan Day post is all about whisky. Her favourite is Scapa & Highland Park, though it's hard for me to keep track!
I'm more into tequila, but I like Talisker and McCallan -- though which year, I never remember.
Posted by: Ith at April 6, 2005 02:33 PMInteresting that your sister and I have opposite tastes because I like the smokey flavor and she doesn't. Fortunately, there's plenty to go 'round.
Posted by: Robert the LB at April 6, 2005 02:52 PMYeah, your secrets are safe. Not because I wouldn't spread them. I would. But because, apparently, I was so blotto I can't remember a damn thing about it.
Posted by: Kathy at April 6, 2005 03:02 PMShe likes the flavour too much is the problem. She's an ex smoker and she says the really smokey stuff gives her the overwhelming urge to have just one cigarette. So she avoids temptation :)
Posted by: Ith at April 6, 2005 06:30 PMTalisker is an Island whisky. Like the others it tends to be a little smokier than the Highland Single Malts. More balanced than most.
But why take my word for it?
Posted by: Dave Schuler at April 6, 2005 06:44 PM
