Tag: Highland Whisky Page 7 of 13

Whisky of the Week review and tasting notes for whisky from the Highland Region in Scotland. Highland single malts are single malt Scotch whiskies produced in the Highland region of Scotland. This category includes the whiskies produced on the islands around Scotland. However it excludes Islay.

Balblair 17 year old Whisky

By Jeannette Wentzel

On 10/07/2019

In Single Malt whisky

The third in my series on the new Balblair age statement releases and this week I look at the Balblair 17 year old single malt Scotch whisky. The Balblair 12 year old whisky set the foundation on which the rest of the series stands.

This is followed by the Balblair 15 year old, which is just delicious. The Balblair 17 year old whisky is a travel retail exclusive, so not quite part of the standard range, but something to look forward to when you travel.

Balblair is one of Scotland’s oldest distilleries. Founded in 1790 by John Ross, the distillery lies in Edderton in the Northern Highlands of Scotland. Balblair is owned by Inver House Distillers who also own the anCnoc whisky and Speyburn whisky brands.

Interestingly only an estimated 15% of Balblair’s capacity is bottled as a single malt. The rest are all used for blends, including Hankey Bannister.

The Balblair 17 year old single malt whisky is matured in American oak ex-bourbon casks and then finished in first-fill Spanish oak butts. It is not chill-filtered with no added colour.

Balblair 17 year old Whisky Review

REGION: Highland

ABV: 46%

COLOUR: Gold

NOSE: Dark chocolate, bits of sultanas and cherries with wood spice. Minced fruit, oak and pepper.

PALATE: Not as sweet as the 15 year old with more wood spice and fruit. Nutmeg, white pepper mixed with vanilla. Red apples, sweet figs and juicy oranges with oak and hints of honey. Bold and chewy with a medium body. Adding water makes the 17 year old a bit sweeter, but interestingly, it does not tone down on the spicy notes.

FINISH: Dark chocolate and pepper with a hint of dried orange peel in the background.

RATING: EXCELLENT

The Balblair 15 year old release showcased the fruity sweeter part of the Balblair style. This Balblair 17 year old whisky focused on the more wood spice part of the profile. It is delicious and a perfect after-dinner whisky.

This whisky will work well with a cheese board filled with fresh fruit and mature cheddar cheese. Next time I look at the last of my samples, the Balblair 18 year old whisky.

Sample disclosure: I received this sample from Balblair. Though received as part of a promotional event, the review and tasting notes are my own honest, fair and independent thoughts about the whisky.

Loch Lomond Original Whisky

By Jeannette Wentzel

On 07/22/2019

In Single Malt whisky

I have tried many of the releases from Loch Lomond, but have not written about the entry-level release; the Loch Lomond Original single malt Scotch whisky. So today I write about the last Loch Lomond mini from my stash that I have tasted but not yet captured.

The Loch Lomond story is captured in my post on Loch Lomond Signature as well as on Loch Lomond Single Grain. It is a very versatile distillery; producing both malt and grain whisky and they have a big brand portfolio including Inchmurrin and Inchmoan.

Also Read: Loch Lomond Buitenverwachten 6 year old Whisky

From their range, I prefer the Glen Scotia releases. In the future, I hope to try some of the other brands within their portfolio.

The Loch Lomond Original whisky is a peated single malt aged in American oak and has no age statement. It retails for around R850 in SA.

Loch Lomond Original Whisky Review

REGION: Highland

ABV: 43 %

COLOUR: Golden with green hints.

NOSE: Caramel, tropical fruit and toasted oak. There is a fresh green note to the nose like fresh-cut hay and green grass. Soft peaty hints with bits of roasted nuts and cereal.

PALATE: Green notes mixed with honey sweetness and vanilla. Green grass and fresh herbs mixed with fruity notes. Cereal and hints of bitter chocolate mixed with pepper and ginger and in the background delicate peat and smoke.

A bit of an alcohol burn. It needs some water to soften the heat and water brings more nuttiness, and lemon pepper balanced with caramel sweetness. However, the water softens the peat and smoke. Not very complex.

FINISH: Short finish ending in pepper and lemon peel.

RATING: GOOD

A bit young, with some raw sharp edges. Not very complex, and not the cheapest of single malts. The nose is the better part of the dram, but the vibrancy of the nose does not carry to the palate.

This is not my favourite of the Loch Lomond range. However, the subsequent releases does get better and more interesting and complex. Looking back at some of the releases I have tried, my favourite is still the Glen Scotia Victoriana whisky.

Also Read: Paul John Mars Orbiter Whisky

Glenfiddich 18 vs Glenmorangie 18 year old Whisky

By Jeannette Wentzel

On 06/03/2019

In Whisky Comparison

In today’s exploration, we dive into the exciting realm of 18 year old whiskies, pitting two iconic releases against each other. It’s a showdown of Speyside elegance versus the bold Highland spice as we compare Glenfiddich 18 vs Glenmorangie 18 year old single malt Scotch whiskies in the ultimate battle of flavours and craftsmanship.

Let’s make one thing clear from the start – this isn’t about crowning a winner, and choosing a favourite would be akin to picking a favourite child.

Both of these drams are exceptional in their own right, and today, we’re delving deep into their distinctions and uncovering their unique taste profiles. So, without further ado, let’s delve into the captivating world of Glenfiddich versus Glenmorangie whisky.

Glenmorangie 18 year old Whisky

Review and tasting notes for the Glenmorangie 18 yo single malt whisky with glass
Our journey begins in the Highlands, in Tain, Ross-shire, Scotland, where Glenmorangie proudly stands as a towering icon. Literally, with the tallest stills in Scotland. The Glenmorangie 18 year old single malt whisky is a testament to their dedication to craft and tradition.

This Highland gem matures in bourbon casks, with some Sherry casks added. The process unfolds over 15 years in standard oak casks, after which approximately 30% of the liquid embarks on a three-year adventure in Spanish Oloroso casks.

Once both components reach the ripe age of 18, they are masterfully blended. This exquisite whisky is in the Glenmorangie Prestige Expressions collection, alongside the Signet and the 25 year old release.

Glenfiddich 18 year old Whisky

Tasting notes for the Glenfiddich 18 yo Single Malt Whisky with glass
Heading south to Dufftown in the Speyside region of Scotland, we find Glenfiddich. This distillery has been delighting whisky enthusiasts since its establishment in 1886. What sets Glenfiddich apart is its continued dedication to family ownership, a rarity in the industry.

Glenfiddich’s 18 year old single malt whisky, a part of their Core range, blends Oloroso Sherry and Bourbon casks. The result is a harmonious marriage of flavours that tantalize the palate.

Also Read: Ardbeg 10 vs Talisker 10 yo Whisky

Glenfiddich 18 vs Glenmorangie 18 year old Whisky

Glenfiddich 18 vs Glenmorangie 18 Whisky Comparison

	Glenfiddich 18 yo	Glenmorangie 18 yo
Region	Speyside Whisky	Highland Whisky
ABV	43%	43%
Colour	Rich gold	Light golden amber
Nose	Oak and fresh apple notes are intertwined with barley and cereals. There is a definite sweetness of dried fruits and hints of toffee in the background.	Toffee sweet, rich and creamy. Creme Brule, honey with hints of spice and oak. An abundance of fresh fruit, dried pear and fruits of the forest.
Palate	Notes of oak, barley and cereal. An extraordinary smooth whisky. Fruit cake and Christmas pudding with warming cinnamon and roast nuts. Multi-layered.	Big and bold. Thick and syrupy with lots of spice and oak. Fresh fruit, pears and rich heather honey. It is rich and complex with a big fruit and spice kick.
Finish	A lingering spicy finish with mild nuts and toffee.	Long and lingering with hints of butter, chocolate and citrus peel.
My Rating	Excellent	Excellent
Comments	Wonderfully complex but still easy drinking.	Well-balanced and smooth.
You will like it if you are looking for…	Something sweeter with winter fruits and nut notes.	Summer fruits with a spicy kick that is bold and warming.
Price	$132	$140
Pairs well with	Brebirousse d’Argental cheese, Cassoulet, freshly baked apple pie with ice cream	Coffee and dark chocolate macaroons, aged gouda cheese

The Glenmorangie 18 year old is big and bold with notes of fruity sweetness, hints of warming spices and a creamy texture. Notes of toffee, dried pear and creamy oak mix with cinnamon and chocolate.

The Glenfiddich 18 year old also has fruity notes, but there are more cereals, baked pudding and nuts on the palate. Oak and fresh apples balanced with Christmas spices and fruit cake.

The Glenmorangie is more spicy and fruit-forward than the Glenfiddich. The Glenmorangie has a creamier texture, but the Glenfiddich is more complex. The Glenfiddich showcases more of the creamy nuts and oak mixed with cereals that you don’t get in the Glenmorangie.

When it comes to ratings on platforms like Whizzky, it appears that the Glenmorangie might have a slight edge over Glenfiddich. However, remember that whisky appreciation is highly subjective, and personal taste plays a significant role.

I suspect many connoisseurs would agree to a place for both of these remarkable whiskies in my whisky room.

So, whether you lean toward the fruity nature of Speyside or the robust spices of the Highlands, one thing is for sure. In the Glenfiddich 18 vs Glenmorangie 18 year old whisky showdown, everyone’s a winner. Cheers to exploring these stellar 18 year old masterpieces.

Also Read: Johnnie Walker Platinum Label vs Gold Label whisky

Balblair 1990 Vintage Whisky

By Jeannette Wentzel

On 05/06/2019

In Single Malt whisky

Today I am looking at the last of the Balblair miniature bottles that I found in a cupboard at the end of last year. This one is the Balblair 1990 Vintage single malt Scotch whisky release. John Ross founded the Balblair distillery in 1790, and he situated it close to the railway.

This made shipping the whisky easy for the Ross family. Inver House Distillers Limited purchased the Balblair distillery in 1996.

Other distilleries owned by Inver House include the Speyburn Distillery, Knockdhu Distillery, Old Pulteney Distillery and the Balmenach Distillery. Inver House Distillers also own the Hankey Bannister and Catto’s blended whisky brands.

Also Read: Balblair 17 yo whisky

Balblair whisky is bottled in beautiful bottles that stand out in my collection. The design is inspired by the nearly Pictish stone Clach Biorach. The bottles don’t carry age statements but have Vintages – the year that the spirits were distilled. The current vintage at the distillery is the Balblair 2005.

The Balblair 1990 was distilled in 1990 and bottled in 2014 making it a 23 yo. The spirit was matured in ex-bourbon casks and then finished in Oloroso Sherry butts for another 2 years. It has a natural colour and is non-chill-filtered. The price for the Balblair 1990 is around R 1 750 in South Africa.

Balblair 1990 Vintage Whisky Review

REGION: Highlands

ABV: 46%

COLOUR: Golden copper

NOSE: Fruity sweetness, vanilla, hints of spice and citrus. Elegant and soft with a wonderful balance between the fruity sweetness and the spice. Bits of dried fruit, florals and soft wood.

PALATE: Plums, toffee apple, citrus fruit, oranges with hints of black pepper. Citrus fruits come through first, followed by honey-covered raisins. There are hints of spicy cloves, nutmeg and dry oak, dried fruit, honey and raisins. A bit of water releases more sweetness, but you only need a few drops.

FINISH: Medium length with hints of citrus and pepper

RATING: EXCELLENT

Every time I try this Balblair single malt release, I notice something else about it. The first time I tried it, it reminded me of a library full of old leather-bound books. Rich and dark. This weekend it reminded me of a fruit orchard in high summer. Overripe fruits, and citrus with honey bees buzzing past. Fresh and elegant. A lovely dram worth sharing with special people.

During 2019, Balblair moved away from their vintage releases into age statement releases. I captured some tasting notes for the Balblair 15 yo whisky as well as for the Balblair 18 yo whisky and a few other of their releases.

Also Read: Tullibardine 1993 Vintage Whisky

How to start a whiskey club

By Jeannette Wentzel

On 02/20/2019

In Lifestyle

How to Start a whisky club
Whiskey is a spirit that brings people together. It gets people talking and having fun. It is an experience to be shared, to learn about, and to enjoy. However, exploring new whisky can be difficult in today’s economic climate. With rising food prices and fuel costs, whisky has become a luxury item. But there’s a solution: start a whiskey club!

A whiskey club is where you and like-minded friends can taste and learn together, making quality whiskey more affordable. For example, if each of 7 members contributes $15 per month, you have $105 monthly to spend on different whiskey. With this budget, you can enjoy 1 or 2 exquisite drams every month.

How to Start a whisky club get some friends and Some glasses

1. Start a Whiskey Club

1.1 Chat with your friends

Gather friends interested in whiskey, aiming for a club of 7 to 12 members. Establish ground rules for a positive experience and create a private communication channel, like a Facebook group or WhatsApp list, for easy information sharing.

1.2 Choose a name for your whiskey club

Select a name that defines your group, reflecting your identity. Be creative, and it could be linked to your locality or a shared interest.

1.3 Define your monthly contributions

Agree on a fixed monthly contribution; this makes budgeting easier. Even as low as $15 per month can work well, as great whiskey doesn’t have to be expensive.

1.4 Plan your venue and meeting time

Select a date and time that accommodates everyone, such as a Friday evening. Find an easily accessible venue, which could rotate among members’ homes or a central location.

1.5 Define a format

Ensure your meetings have structure and learning opportunities. Designate a leader for each event responsible for research, buying whisky, and hosting the tasting. Rotate this role to share the workload and promote learning.

The preparation can include the history of the distillery, information about the specific release as well as notes on food pairings.

2. What else you will need

2.1 Glassware

Some people will have strong opinions on what glasses you need for a whiskey tasting. Use what you have initially, but look for small tulip-shaped wine glasses as you progress. Getting glasses branded in your whiskey club’s name is a fun touch.

2.2 Tot measure

2.3 Water

Have room temperature water for adding to whiskey and cleansing the palate. We taste the whiskey first without water and then with a few drops of water. Water allows more of the flavours to open up.

The one thing we never add when tasting is ice. Ice makes the molecules contract, and you don’t taste all the aspects of the whiskey. Keep the ice for the hotter days when you are out just enjoying but not for tasting.

2.4 Tasting sheets

Standardized tasting sheets allow you to write down your impression of the whiskey you taste. Print them out or share them with the team so that they can bring a new tasting sheet to every session.

Some information to include on a tasting sheet can include:

Distillery name
Whiskey Region
Bottling information (ABV, Year distilled, Age, Cask type)
Tasting notes including colour, nose, palate and finish
Comments
Rating

3. Start a whiskey club: Your first meeting

Ensure all members share a basic understanding of whiskey. Use the first meeting to discuss how whiskey is made and the fundamentals of whiskey tasting, utilizing online resources for guidance. There are some great resources available such as:

Start a whisky club people sharing a drink

4. Choosing whisky to taste

Plan your whiskey selection based on your budget and members’ preferences. Decide whether to buy one expensive whiskey or a few medium-priced options. Create a tasting schedule in advance, considering different types of whiskey.

Start by making a list of some interesting whiskies. Look at the various regions and countries available. For example: Month 1 you taste Speyside whisky from Scotland, month 2 you try an American whiskey aged in wine barrels, month 3 it is time for a few rye releases.

During month 4 you can explore some bourbon, while month 5 looks towards Scottish Islay and you can try some peated and unpeated expressions from there.

Leverage online resources like the Whizzky App, which offers recommendations and a platform to track your club’s whiskey journey.

Who many whiskies should you taste per session? That depends on you and your club. We don’t taste more than 3 drams at a session. But that is just us. However, remember your taste buds stop working after a couple of drams. So anything after your 5^th whisky, you probably do not taste properly anymore.

5. Start a whiskey club: The process

Adapt the process to suit your club. Start with the leader sharing insights about the distillery, region, and the specific bottling. Then proceed with the following suggested steps:

Do not rush the tasting; take your time to savour each whiskey.
Pour out a measure of whiskey for everyone.
Start with the tasting sheet. Complete the basic info around region etc.
Look at the colour. Dark or light, what does the colour remind you of?
Nose the whiskey and see what flavours you can identify?
Then take a small sip (at last) and roll the liquid around in your mouth. What do you taste? What does it remind you of? Add a bit of water. Try it again. Is there a difference in the taste? Fill out the tasting notes on the tasting sheet as you go along.

When everyone has tasted the whisky, it is time to chat. See what other people smelled and tasted. Go back and taste some more.

Let the glass stand a bit and try it again. Proceed through your lineup of whiskies and if you’re lucky there’s some leftover to go back and have a 2^nd glass.

Enjoy the company of like-minded friends and a good whiskey. The rest of the night is up to you!

6. Drinking & Driving

Prioritize safety. Never drink and drive; use ride-sharing services like Uber or Taxify, designate a sober driver, or take a taxi. Ensure everyone in your club gets home safely.

Starting a whiskey club is a fantastic way to enjoy this delightful spirit, expand your knowledge, and create lasting memories with friends. So, gather your fellow whiskey enthusiasts and embark on this exciting journey of discovery and camaraderie. Cheers to your whisky club adventure!

This article was also published on LinkedIn.