How to get into Scotch?

[ghart999]

Newbie Scotch drinker here. I know nothing about it other than the distillation process, etc. I have tried a few and am slightly beginning to gain an appreciation for it. However, I don't know what I like and what I don't.

For a pure beginner here, recommend a decent single malt that's not too harsh, of decent quality and reasonable price. By price, I would say no more than $30/bottle.

Also how should I drink, with water, ice? Again I know nothing. I have some brandy sniffers, wine glasses and Belgian beer flutes. Of those, what is preferred or do I need to go buy a nice Scotch glass? Thanks all.

Gregg

 

[GilaMinumBeer]

For anything, you pretty much just go to the store and buy whatever you haven't tried or what catches your eye in your price point. Lots of stores have a sample section too. So, take advantage of that when you can. and try it everyway until you find what you like. Neat, watered, iced, with soda, whatever.

I have tried just about every sctoch sample my stores carry and guess what I found out?

I hate Scotch.

 

[dataz722]

I would suggest that you start out with some blended scotches and with a little ice and/or water. The ice and water will help detract away from some of the harshness of the alcohol and let you notice flavors you normally probably wouldn't have. Over time you may want to reduce the water or ice.

 

[motobrewer]

under $30 a bottle for single malt? not really much there

I think Johnny Walker Black is about $30. decent blend.

how you take it is up to you. i personally like neat with a splash of room temp bottled water. out of your glass selection, i'd use a snifter, but i'm not exactly sure what you mean by a "belgian beer flute". that might work fine.

 

[ghart999]

So maybe start blended. Makes sense. Someone have me a bottle of Johnny Walker Gold about 6 years ago. It was opened and tried back then and I hated it. Would it still be good having been opened?

What other blended scotch would be decent in the $30 range. Also how much water are we talking here. A few drops?

 

[motobrewer]

i've never had the gold. actually the only blends i've had are Black and Chivas Regal. Chivas is disgusting.

you could probably pick up a bottle of Glenlivet for under $30. Otherwise I'd recommend The Macallan if you don't like peat, Talisker or Laphroag if you do.

also, this guy is pretty interesting:
http://www.maltmaniacs.org/

 

[strat_thru_marshall]

I LOVE Macallan 12. Its about $45 a bottle...but its so, so, so good.

Three fingers of Macallan 12 over 2 ice cubes. Heaven. Add a good cigar....oh man.

 

[KellyK]

Welcome to Scotch! I think I can be of assistance. As a brief introduction, there are basically 4 regions of scotch, highland, lowland, islay, and Campbletown. Each has their own general characteristics: ie: highland tend to be more peaty than lowland, islay will frequently have a seaweed/seasalt character to them. Campbletown is the smallest production area. The highland scotches tend to be more available than many of the other areas. Most scotches should have their region identified on the lable. If you're interested the internet provides a wealth of information on these regions.

A great introductory single malt, in my opinion, is Auchentoshan. Their basic single malt 750 is usally around the $25 mark, though I've seen it as low as $19. It's a lowland scotch. For highland, the basic 750 single malt glenlivet or glenfiddich can typically be procured in the $25 range as well. I see you are in Denver, me too. Davidson's, Argonaut, and Tipseys should all offer a strong selection of single malt scotches in the below $40 range.

Personally, I'd stay away from the blended scotches if what you're wanting to do is begin your single malt appreciation and education. Blended scotch has an entirely different character than single malt, and frequently blended scotch costs as much if not more that many single malts. Not that there's anything wrong with blended, some of them are just delicious, but I just caution to keep your goal of what you're trying to do in mind.

For service, you can choose to take your scotch a couple of ways. Neat means no ice and generally no water, though note "cask strength" scotch should always be served with some water. There is no specific glass for scotch, but a standard tumbler (if serving on ice) or a snifter (neat) are my suggestions. For water about 1/2 tsp to 2 oz of scotch is about right, though make sure the water is of good quality free of chlorine or anything that could inhibit the scotch. The theory is the water (in small quantities) opens up the scotch and allows for better presentation of the aromatics.

My personal preference is neat, no water, but experiment and find out what you like.

 

[Randar]

Also how should I drink, with water, ice? Again I know nothing. I have some brandy sniffers, wine glasses and Belgian beer flutes. Of those, what is preferred or do I need to go buy a nice Scotch glass? Thanks all.

One at a time:

1) Do not ice or dilute (unless drinking a cask strength). Neat is the way to appreciate a good scotch. Anything that requires ice to be able to tolerate is not worth ole Randar's time or the calories. Tasting it neat will allow you to actually taste and smell the full character of the whiskey. Icing it just hides aspects of the whiskey that are otherwise lacking.

2) Snifter is the best of the bunch you list. I picked up a set of dedicated scotch glasses but I am dumb like that. (quick tips: http://www.cocktailtimes.com/dictionary/scotch.tasting.shtml)

Do you like Scotch or are you just trying to see if you do? Do you like Earthy, peat, smoke type of flavors and aromas? If not, it might not be worth it to even bother trying.

Skip the Cutty Sark, Dewars, etc. If you are going to try blends, go with the Chivas or Johnny Walker. Personally, when I was getting into it I would try a few single malts from the various regions and narrow in on what you like. I personally hate the Lowland and am ambivalent towards many of the of the Highland scotches. Islay, Speyside, and whiskeys from Skye and Okney islands are where it is at for me.

If you want to try some nice "reasonable" bottles of single malt, Bowmore 12 used to be on sale for around 30-35 bucks and that is about the best value bottle around if you can get it at that price. If you are comparing to full price ($45 near me), I prefer Macallan 12. Bruichladdich is also one of my favorite and has a 12 yr in the same range. I love the Bruichladdich 15, just an amazing mouthfeel and vanilla notes that just coat your tongue.

Other favorites of mine that I usually try to snag at the Heathrow Duty Free on my 2x yearly trips: Highland Park, Talisker, & Lagavulin. Laphroaig is not for the faint of heart, so you may wish to "get around" before getting into that one.


You may also be able to find liquor stores in your area doing Scotch tastings. Ask around and get a designated driver!

 

[KellyK]

I forgot to mention that Bull and Bush frequently has scotch tastings there and another GREAT place in Denver to explore without committing to the purchase of a whole bottle is Pint's Pub. It has the largest selection of single malt scotch outside of scotland, with per glass (about 4 oz) prices ranging from around $4 - several hundred dollars. Pints is located by the art museum. They offer a "tour of scotland" with a smaller pour of scotch from each region for around $20 and the majority of the bartenders are very knowledgable about the different kinds of scotch.

 

[steinsato]

I'd say I'm a Scotch beginner as well but I've found I really like 12 year Glenfidich. When it comes to Bourbon, Woodford Reserve beats everything I've tried hands down.

 

[dataz722]

One at a time:

1) Do not ice or dilute (unless drinking a cask strength). Neat is the way to appreciate a good scotch. Anything that requires ice to be able to tolerate is not worth ole Randar's time or the calories. Tasting it neat will allow you to actually taste and smell the full character of the whiskey. Icing it just hides aspects of the whiskey that are otherwise lacking.

I think this is just being an EAC. Most people that are new to liquor in general that isn't in a cocktail will have trouble just sipping on something straight. Diluting a little will make it more palatable for them. Most people you could give them a great and a terrible scotch and they wouldn't be able to tell much a difference just because of the alochol. Dilute and or chill it some and more people are able to enjoy just sipping on it and then start to notice more individual flavors. This goes for all spirts.

 

[hungrymonkey]

Start out with a six pack of beer. Then its a bit more tolerable.

Sorry to not add anything productive. I have tried for years to develope a taste for scotch. I just cannot adjust to it.

 

[weirdboy]

You might try finding a bar that stocks a good selection and has bartender(s) knowledgable about what's available, and getting on friendly terms with them. Even if you are paying more on a per-shot basis you're still saving money if the goal is to get a broader understanding of what's out there.

 

[Boerderij_Kabouter]

Start looking into bourbon. $30 is just a bad price point for Scotch in my opinion. If you are willing to spend look into Scotch. Otherwise, some really good bourbons can be had for a much lower price.

 

[Randar]

I think this is just being an EAC.

Sorry, not familiar with this acronym and figured you weren't talking about an Exact Audio Copy... what is EAC?

 

[jmo88]

I just started to experiment with scotch. I really dig the very peaty stuff. Although one of my favorite ways to have scotch, which will surely make any scotch snob cringe, is 2 parts scotch, 2 parts freshly squeezed grapefruit juice, 1 part simple syrup. Shaken and served over ice.

 

[weirdboy]

Sorry, not familiar with this acronym and figured you weren't talking about an Exact Audio Copy... what is EAC?

Oh, no you don't get off that easy. You've got to figure it out for yourself. It's like an initiation ritual.

 

[weirdboy]

I just started to experiment with scotch. I really dig the very peaty stuff. Although one of my favorite ways to have scotch, which will surely make any scotch snob cringe, is 2 parts scotch, 2 parts freshly squeezed grapefruit juice, 1 part simple syrup. Shaken and served over ice.

I believe that's called a Choking Scotsman.

 

[Randar]

Oh, no you don't get off that easy. You've got to figure it out for yourself. It's like an initiation ritual.

I'm an experienced alcohol consumer with lots of experience with excessive alcohol consumption...

 

[jmo88]

I'm an experienced alcohol consumer with lots of experience with excessive alcohol consumption...

hah. Good try. it's much less flattering.

 

[northernlad]

A great introductory single malt, in my opinion, is Auchentoshan. Their basic single malt 750 is usally around the $25 mark, though I've seen it as low as $19. It's a lowland scotch.

Buy this Scotch^^. It is the least expensive one that won't leave you with a bad taste for Scotch.
As for others I adore Oban, Balvenie Doublewood and Laphroaig.

One at a time:

1) Do not ice or dilute (unless drinking a cask strength). Neat is the way to appreciate a good scotch. Anything that requires ice to be able to tolerate is not worth ole Randar's time or the calories. Tasting it neat will allow you to actually taste and smell the full character of the whiskey. Icing it just hides aspects of the whiskey that are otherwise lacking.

I feel the need to insert "in my opinion" anywhere in the above statement. The addition of a very small amount of clean, chemical free water allows the scotch to open up and decreases the alcohol bite without detracting from the actual flavor of the scotch. "In my opinion", if you were going to coach a guy on how to learn the appreciation of scotch, you would suggest adding water so he is not turned off by the bite.
Scotch isn't for everyone, fortunately, as none of my friends ever want to share my bottle...

 

[schmagy]

Quote "scotch scotch scotch, scotch in my belly!" Ron Burgundy

Do go out and buy Michael Jacksons book on whisky and Jim Murray's whisky bible. http://www.whiskybible.com/
those two books will save you much disappointment and may unearth a gem or two you would not have purchased.

anyone who tells you how to enjoy your own scotch is a duschebag... figure out how you like it and don't apologize. (that said, i will see if you put ice or water in it before i haul out the really rare stuff)

Tamdu is really decent and usually under $20 now that they shut it down and are liquidating the inventory.
Chivas is over priced but many ppl like it, but not for me.

Dewars is a really good low cost drink when all your "special" bottles have taken an a$$whoopin. Johny black is good and available everywhere. Green is even better, Gold is unique and interesting but i would pick many other bottles over it in its price range (try it at a bar or resturaunt) and Blue is expensive

5 scotch's worth my money:
Ardbeg followed by any of the other islay smoke bombs
Balvenie anything: if you can still find any leftover 10 YO, buy it all. I used to get it under $35 but it was under priced. better than the 15yo which is an OUTSTANDING scotch. the 12 is a sherry casked whisky. nearly identical to Macallan 12 (sets the standard for a reason), but in my opinion more complex and fruity.
Suntory Yamazaki, while not technically scotch, is really special and holds a special place in my collection.

The single best scotch i have ever purchased has been Talisker Distillers edition 2005 soooooooooooo mmmm nummy.

 

[prosper]

Try an example from each of the main scotch regions - in most cases, scotches from a common region have similar flavour profiles. You'll have a hard time finding anything decent for $30, though there are a few bargains out there.

The Islay whisky's are the manliest - lots of smoke, peat and iodine. They'll put hair on your chest, but a newbie may think they've accidentially been poured a glass of diesel. My favourite from this category (actually, my all-time favourite scotch) is Talisker Distillers Edition, but the regular Talisker is pretty good, too. Laphroaig Quarter Cask is also excellent, and the relatively new Ardbeg distillery produces some very tasty products.

The Speyside whisky's are the least manly IMO. Something like aberlour 10yo is easily approachable, and has little to no peat or smoke. It's fruity, caramelly, and toffee-like. The aberlour abunadh is more expensive, but it's a fantastic whisky.

Lowlands whisky is likewise fairly restrained and approachable. I don't care for them.

Highlands whisky is good stuff, generally a bit more peaty (but not usually smoky). I like the Dalmore Cigar Malt, but there's a lot to choose from, and this region shows the most diversity.


Also - try a bottle of amrut. It's not technically scotch (it's made in India) - but it's fantastic, and not too expensive. I'd rate it right up there with the classic Scotch scotches (even above some of them, too).

 

[EdWort]

Hmmm Scotch.

One of my favorite is Isle of Jura Superstition.

 

[cinderbike]

I enjoy Glenmorangie, Laphroig and Balvenie myself.

 

[jpc]

Buy this Scotch^^. It is the least expensive one that won't leave you with a bad taste for Scotch.
As for others I adore Oban, Balvenie Doublewood and Laphroaig.



I feel the need to insert "in my opinion" anywhere in the above statement. The addition of a very small amount of clean, chemical free water allows the scotch to open up and decreases the alcohol bite without detracting from the actual flavor of the scotch. "In my opinion", if you were going to coach a guy on how to learn the appreciation of scotch, you would suggest adding water so he is not turned off by the bite.
Scotch isn't for everyone, fortunately, as none of my friends ever want to share my bottle...

I'll echo these recommendations. This is what I was taught in Scotland as well; they always have a pitcher of clean, fresh water when serving scotch, and the drinker will add as much as needed. They told us to add enough water to eliminate the burn, and it seems to work well for me. I also watched the "locals" in a couple pubs, and they seemed to do the same.

I'm personally a fan of the Bavenie DoubleWood, Oban, and pretty much anything from Highland Park. I also like the Talisker, but it's a much different beast, as mentioned before.

 

[dataz722]

Oh, no you don't get off that easy. You've got to figure it out for yourself. It's like an initiation ritual.

hehe, exactly!

I'm an experienced alcohol consumer with lots of experience with excessive alcohol consumption...

And your point? That gives you an excuse to be arrogant and condescending?

Saying something like that is like telling someone that wants to get into good beer to go drink iipas and RIS's. If they don't like them then though **** and they shouldn't drink any beer.

 

[passedpawn]

hehe, exactly!



And your point? That gives you an excuse to be arrogant and condescending?

Saying something like that is like telling someone that wants to get into good beer to go drink iipas and RIS's. If they don't like them then though **** and they shouldn't drink any beer.

... Excessive Alchohol Consumption ... . He was taking a stab. Not close, but I like his creativity.

 

[dataz722]

I like the creativity too but I still stand behind what I said.