Scotch and Similar Malts

Welcome to JD's Single Malt page. I love a good Single Malt after dinner, usually with a fine cigar. I drink scotch neat in Riedel Vinum Scotch glasses with just a hint of water. As with our wine tasting notes, the scotch tasting notes are usually unblind and highly suspect. You'll just have to confirm them yourself.

Aberlour 15 year old (Speyside): This highland malt is a little different. The nose is very herbaceous, including a big dollop of gooseberry (catpiss) that is normally associated with Sauvignon Blanc. Decent mouthfeel without much peatiness. It's a decent medium bodied scotch but not among my favorites.

Bowmore 17 year old (Islay): Big bang for the buck here. A complex scotch with peat, iodine, sea salt and an almost perfumey quality that turns some people off. Peaty in the mouth without being overwhelming and a nice finish. This is good stuff.

Macallan 12 year old (Speyside): An entry level scotch for those you want to introduce to the world of Single Malts without overwhelming them. Aged in sherry casks, it comes across smooth and rich with the sherry aromas and flavors predominating. Unfortunately, there's not a lot more to offer.

Oban 14 year old (Highland): I love this stuff. You could almost call it my "house scotch" along with the Bowmore 17 year old. Plenty of smoky peat on the nose without being overwhelming. Peat and iodine with a touch of the sea come across the palate. Although made in an Islay style, Oban does not get so dry on the finish that it sucks the moisture out of your head.