One for the whisky lovers

[sjmuktop]

I do love my spirits, in particular whisky and brandy.  

If I'm at the pub, though I do sometimes opt for a red wine, which will usually be a Malbec or a Merlot, more often than not these days, I opt for whisky.

My preference is always a single malt Scotch (no blended malts, please). I do occasionally enjoy a delicious bourbon (like Woodford Reserve), and my palate also appreciates a good brandy - especially a cognac or Brandy de Jerez. 

I have in recent times taken to enjoying a whisky or two in the evenings to mark the end of the day. I love sitting back, putting my feet up, putting on music or something to watch, whilst slowly sipping a quality malt. My favourite Scotch is currently Talisker 10, sometimes neat or with just a dash of water to open some sweetness, in my Waterford Crystal cut glass tumbler (I still don't have a Glencairn yet). I always drink my whisky neat or with a dash of water. I never commit any criminal acts like adding ice and / or a mixer. 

I do love what you might call 'contemplative' sipping sessions. That is, where I just sit listening to the ticking of my mantle clock whilst enjoying the flavours and aromas of the Scotch or brandy I happen to have in my hand; no other external distractions or sounds. 

Though I like non-age statement (NAS) Scotch whiskies, I prefer single malts with age statements. 

Anyone else here a whisky lover? Scotch? Bourbon? What is favourite whisky and how do you like it? In what environment? 

In terms of Scotch, I do like the gentle Speysides (The Singleton 12, Glenfiddich 12, The Glenlivet 12), but also enjoy lightly to moderately peated whiskies like Talisker (10 and Skye) or Highland Park 12. No Laphroaig or Ardbeg yet. Talisker is my favourite whisky thus far on my whisky journey. I'd love to know what you like and any recommendations would be very welcome.

Sláinte!

[+ JamesB]

I’m a big fan of blended Scotch, and my go to bottles are usually Buchanan’s 18 Year or Royal Salute 21. For special occasions, I’ll break out the Johnnie Walker Blue Label.