Exploring the world of Single Malt Scotches

Archive for March, 2012

Penderyn Welch Single Malt

Penderyn Welsh Single Malt – Wrong freekin’ island you say ?  Not so fast you snobbish consumer. While you’re not likely to find this unique bottle at the corner store, it is worth a special delivery.  The Prince of Wales might better have a case of this fine drink than whatever Camilla brings to the party…..The whisky itself is lightly peated and has an engagingly mellow nose that transitions into a minor flavor explosion.  There is a fruity sense and the sherry casks also make their presence known  in the finish.  I found that swirling the whisky in my mouth allowed the complexity to come forward like a royal parade on a spring day.  Don’t get you kilt in a knot over the origins of this very drinkable whisky, just go with the flow.  Snobbishly rated an 8. 


Springbank Private Label

Springbank Private Label,  Some days are better than others….and today was a rockin’ fine example . Here’s a very special bottle that was purchased as an entire barrel many moons ago and man o man was it worth the wait.  This is a rich and mellow malt with lovely vanilla notes leading to an oaky spice in the background.  My friend Adrienne who provided this example reports that robbing a bank might be the only way to acquire your own stash, as the last bottle sold at auction for a cool grand. Compare this rare scotch with the distinctive tones of a vintage Rickenbacker and you’ll get the picture.  I wonder if Mr. Thomas Petty enjoys the occasional dram……..this liquid music rates a 9+ ,or a Grammy.

Springbank Private Label


The Macallan 12

The Macallan 12- Here’s one very mature 12 year old, way past the usual pre-teen shenanigans! This Highland smoothy is one whisky that you can enjoy with meals as well as during the evening; it’s creamy enough and perfectly flavored for accompanying a juicy steak with your mate.  The rich golden color is the result of perfectly roasted all Scottish barley aged in sherry casks for a full dozen years. This lingering finish lasts longer than War and Peace did on your nightstand. I found fruity notes with vanilla in the background, probably should have another glass in case I missed anything.  I rate this classic a solid 8

The Macallan 12