My grampa is a huge lagavulin drinker and he always says, “there are two types of whisky, 16 year old Lagavulin and children’s whisky!” Grampa used to work on a farm on the mainland near Islay, he had a friend that worked in the Lagavulin distillery who would let him into the warehouse and they used to use these tin tube things to steal it out of the barrels. At grampa’s 90th birthday we gave everyone there a lagavulin 16 to toast his long life with.
Cool story! 😎 I think the tube like device you are referring to is called an Aberdeen Dog. Distillery workers used to use them for exactly the purpose you describe. If the device has a popular name you can be pretty sure your Grandad was not the only one with a taste for a bit of illicit whisky!
So far, that Lagavulin 16 is my favorite Islay. Laphroig 10 just a bit too briny for me, but their "Select" is nice if you can find it. Lore is not available readily in Pennsylvania.
Same :)) I found Wild Turkey thanks to the movie. And ofc Lagavulin thanks to Ron Swanson and that bottle was the doorway to the whole world of whiskey to me. My drinking experience is on a whole new level ever since. Fun Fact: when Ron was shot in a head he actually drinks North Port 20. Unfortunately that distillery was demolished in 1994 and last bottles are long gone for insane prices.
@@travelerempty from whiskey tribe I discovered a ton of whiskeys that are unavailable in my area and I will never ever have a chance to try anyway. Cool xDDD
>this Same here. Had I not seen Parks I wouldn't have discovered the depths of Islay. I have had Lagavulin and Laphroaig and Ardbeg. No shame, why not share a beautiful taste with the world. Hell scotch can be a dish with the flavors given.
also Ardbeg at 0:40 #5 Laphroaig Lore at 0:56 #4 Laphroaig 10 at 2:37 #3 Ardbeg Uigeadail at 4:30 #2 Ardbeg 10 at 5:22 #1 Lagavulin 16 at 7:27 honorable mention whisky at 8:27 whisky science at 10:38
That's not how I would describe these. I love Islay Scotch but I think describing them like this is irritating. Smokey yes, briny, like the sea. Think of a campfire on the beach. You also get medicinal qualities but to me it's herbal and sharp in a pleasant way, clean and brisk. Especially with the Laphroaig. The smell of evaporated rain off the road. If you add water to some of these, just a drop, you'll start to pick up more of the mellow flavors of honey and vanilla. Especially if they have used bourbon casks.
The first Scotch I ever bought was Laphroaig 10 when I was 18. I bought it because the protagonist in the novel The Eiger Sanction drank it. I liked it back then because it was such a unique and challenging experience. I like it now because it tastes great and has great memories attached to it.
I bought Wild Turkey because protagonist in some movie about snowboarding was drinking it. No regrets. The smoothest simplest bourbon I've ever had. Lagavulin coz of Ron Swanson obviously. Even better. First time I could truly appreciate the taste of whiskey.
i went from not drinking alcohol at all to trying laphroaig and talisker first and didnt find them challenging at all. i then went almost straight to octomore and found it slightly challenging the first time, these days it doesnt do much for me ☹ i have high smoke resistance i guess.
Awesome timing of your video! Myself and four friends just got back today from a week on Islay. We toured and tasted at all nine distilleries (including Ardnahoe - they don't have any aged whisky yet but they are distilling in a brand new facility and let us taste the wash). Also had quite a few different whiskies during a Lagavulin tour hosted by Iain McArther who let us taste some special editions and even a 53 year old straight from the cask. We asked him what he thought was the best, and he said, "you'll not get better than the 16." Bunnahabhain was also memorable with their peated Toiteach a' dha and a 14 year old peated whisky that was aged in Pedro Ximinez sherry barrels which were hands down some of our favorites. Bottom line, all the Islay distilleries produce amazing whisky and it was an epic trip.
Laphroaig 10 was the first scotch I ever had. I said out loud to no one, "Oh my God, what is happening in my mouth!?!". No matter what other whiskeys I try, in the end, I always wish it had been Laphroaig 10. Could be my palate isn't sophisticated enough to enjoy "delicate".
lol for years i refused to try an islay seeing as all those descriptors are repulsive and things i was certain i'd never want to consume, but after trying laphroaig quarter cask and lagavulin 8 i was totally sold and find myself preferring heavily peated islay's to most any other type of scotch.
@French Frys No, you're ignorant because you confuse your opinion for fact and present it as such... and then proceed to insult those who feel differently. These are things you do if you're ignorant, or unintelligent, or six. (I apologize if it turns out you're six. But grow up. By the time you turn seven you should be better than this.)
@ Rhabdo B Y'know that was my first impression when my nose came into contact with Ardbeg 10...Then instead of allowing it to intimidate me, I took a sip and since, I've become hopelessly smitten. Ardbeg 10 is the ELIXIR VITAE!
The crossover of flavors between islay scotches and Latakia pipe tobacco blends is amazing. I’ve always had the traditional Speyside blends. As I explore more I am headed straight for the Islay blends.
Of the readily available Islay scotches, Uigeadail is hands down my favorite. The proof, the sherry, the smoke, the bacon. There is nothing in whisky that is quite as good as fruit finished scotch.
I had my first laphroaig 10 a couple of weeks ago (I know I have been slow to the scotch game). It gave me a flashback to a trip on a fishing boat from Ayr to Arran when I was 11 years old. On the island we saw them making small boats covering them with hides and painting them with hot tar. That is drinking Laphroaig 10 to me.
I just bought a bottle of laphroaig 10 because of all the hype. I’m sorry to say the smell of the peat and iodine then the flavor was the biggest let down of my life. I admit, I do not have an distinguished nor experienced whisky pallet, especially not scotch whisky. I was so looking forward to falling in love with it. No disrespect to the company or those that enjoy it. I’ll keep searching.
@@Dad8802112 Honestly to me it tastes like burnt pine sap and wet leather. That being said two of my hobbies are woodworking and making renaissance armor... so it's perfect for me.
The Laga 16 is still my favourite of the peat beasts. It's just so rich and welcoming and makes me want to get amongst it like a campfire would. I wish I could bottle it in a cologne but sadly I'd smell like an alcoholic!
We had our company Christmas party the other night and I ordered laphroaig. My coworkers were turned off by the aroma of it, but once I had them try it, they loved the salty/sweetness of it. I love the smokey smell as it reminds me of winter and sitting by the fireplace.
I was camping a few weeks ago with friends, and after I had a few sips, we poured some Octomore for someone, and he damn near was in tears professing love for it.
Just tried Ardbeg 10 tonight. It did NOT disappoint. I feel like I was laying in the barley while it was smoked. I feel like I need a shower because I just enjoyed a bonfire in the back yard but the firewood was too wet so now I stink like smoke. I look forward to peeling back that smoke layer because the first thing that hit me on the taste was amazing. Then the smoke almost immediately overwhelmed it to the point where I couldn’t even identify what I was tasting. So glad I found this channel.
I have a Pavlovian response whenever I hear the words "Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky"... I immediately begin to drool and dream of returning to Islay, to once again visit the distilleries and drink of the sweet nectar of the gods. In terms of more readily available Islay whiskies my Top 5 would be (1) Ardbeg 10 which in my opinion has one of the highest quality/price ratios (2) Laphroaig 10 Cask Strength. It is nothing like the regular 10. I recently had the Batch 010 and it is freaking awesome! (3) Bunnahahbain 12 is very lightly peated (3 ppm) but if you can get your hands on a Bunnahahbain Moine Oloroso bottling BUY IT! (4) Lagavulin 16 - no explanation necessary (5) Octomore from Bruichladdich. They are EXPENSIVE ($175-$200 USD) but absolutely phenomenal!
It’s funny how you mention going on extreme flavor journeys. A friend and me sought out and drank nothing but dark ales, stouts, and porters for an entire winter. Beer brewed with oysters, bacon, molasses, maple syrup, etc. We traveled to various breweries and would even travel to other states to buy beer that wasn’t available locally (this is just before places like Half Time and other craft beer exclusive stores came around, so we had trouble ordering stuff to our local beverage marts). It was super cool. We were also huge into bourbon. A few years later, I was diagnosed with a health condition (not alcohol related) and I can’t drink due to the medication I take for it. We still nerd out over beer and whiskey, though. I drink vicariously through my pals lol
This is why I love you guys!! The whole time I was like, poor Bruichladdich, they never get the recognition they deserve. And of course, you guys pay tribute at the end.
Lagavulin 16 is the literal best scotch of my life. I love it so so much. I fell in love with it over 20 years ago and I will always go to this as a personal choice and will always advise friends who ask about ‘a good whiskey’ to get this. It’s greatness knows no bounds.
I never thought that I would enjoy a peaty smokey scotch, and I tried the Ardbeg Uigeadeil. It has lovely layers of flavor. It totally shocked me by how much I enjoy it. Thank you!
This week was my first contact with Islay peat whiskeys. My first glass of Laphroaig 10 was overwhelming and somewhat disappointing. Two days later I tried Lagavulin 8 this time and was equally amazed and fascinated. I did not know that smoky aromas could marry so well with a sweetness that little by little it was coming out of its hiding place behind a smoke screen. Today I just gave Laphroaig 10 a second chance and this time I have managed to tune in to what this whiskey is capable of offering. It has taken me to Scorsese's movie "Shutter Island" over the cliff, into the cave with the fire, into the gloomy corridors of a drug-scented asylum. And suddenly, in two drinks it has turned into a placid beach gathering on a starry night with friends around a candle. And the anise, raisins and candied dark fruit have come out behind the same mysterious smokescreen from the beginning. What a trip, friends!
Back in the late 1980's I was fortunate to have lived for two years close to Hadrian's Wall in Scotland. During my time in Scotland my wife and I visited its far reaches with a singular goal in mind, to visit each and every scotch distillery we possibly could. Early on I bought by chance a bottle of Lagavulin 16 while in Edinburgh. Later, back to our B+B in one of the most mememorable moments of my life, just before turning in for the night, I decided to crack the bottle open for a wee dram (neat). As I raised it to my nose I was immediately taken back by the most exquisite, complex, and sensual aroma I'd ever smelled, and totally surprised, I then spent minutes examining its color and savoring its remarkable aroma. I then took a small sip and let it float around in my mouth and I was totally taken aback by what I can only explain as an out-of-body, unearthly experience... Though liquid, the Lagavulin tasted as if it were in a gaseous state in my mouth, again, something I had never encountered before in anything that I had ever eaten or drank. But, hard to believe, the best was yet to come as I slowly swallowed this luscious liquid/gas. I am at loss to put it into words, but as it slowly trickled down my throat it felt as if I had just taken a magical potion, some lozenge of a liquid and gaseous honey infused with magical herbs and smooth as silk as it went down. Better yet, the taste and feeling stayed in my mouth, nose and throat for several minutes as I continued to relish both the aroma, taste, and feel for several minutes as I tried to figure out what I had just experienced. My wife asked me if I was OK, to which I said try this, and after she tried just a small sip and savored it for minutes she said, oh my God, what the F is this stuff, totally amazed..! We spoke in amazement and then both slowly finished off what remained in the glass, each sip as good as the first. In the morning we rushed into town and bought what remained of the same stock (about 2 cases worth), vowing to use it as a gold standard by which to compare other scotch whiskies. We lived in other parts of Europe for several years before returning to the states in 96 and unfortunately, soon discovered that the Lagavulin sold stateside was very different from that sold in Scotland. To test our theory we have twice returned to Scotland and Islay, where Lagavulin is distilled, and though not as great as our late 80's batch, found the Lagavulin sold in Scotland to be light years better than that being marketed in the states. We still have 3 bottles of our old stock left, treat it like gold, and sip some together every New Years Eve while we reminiscence. Over the years we have shared a touch of it to other scotch whiskie lovers, some who stock up on the thousands of $$$ a bottle stuff, and just sit back and watch as their mouths drop after tasting it and hear them all describe it as unearthly experience like no other. And though we have never been able to find another Lagavulin bottle comparable to our first cases, I agree that even a mediocre bottle of modern day Lagavulin 16 is better than 95% of the other scotch whiskies being marketed nowadays in today's glutted, over hyped and expensive market. But, to each their own, and I wish you luck finding that perfect batch! Just remember, as any good Scottish Innkeeper will remind any tourist asking for a glass of scotch with ice and water will say -- so laddy, you're going to ruin it twice? -- and always order it neat, and if you must, with a touch of water on the side. You will earn a Innkeepers respect doing so. For those interested in traveling Scotland and learning more about whiskie, I would recommend researching the "whiskie trail" and taking a detour to Islay. Live long and prosper!
I agree 100/100. When you start on cask strength and peatiness you never go back. Also I am proud to have drank every one of those that you presented in the video haha. Lastly, Glenlivet nadura heavily peated is a very nice Highland contender to the Islay dominance in the field. I definitely recommend to any cask strength and peat lover
So I definitely consider myself a hardcore peat man, and I'm so glad you've introduced Octomore to me, I already have a bottle in the cart, just gotta wait until next payday. I'm near giddy with excitement.
So....... I had Ardbeg for the first time tonight. I know this is an old video. BUT Jesus!!! Everyone I was with smelled it and said I was a "better man" (though I am a girl). No idea which vintage/version I had but loved the smoke/taste!! Usually stick to bourbon exclusively. First sip was strong like I have heard in your other videos but I kept loving it more and more with each sip. Thank you for helping me try new things!
I'm pretty happy with this list and think you've nailed it, of the four I've tasted (not had the Lore). Lagavulin 16 really is a prime Islay sample. As for your comments on peat lovers, I was actually in that boat until I discovered your two youtube channels--they've made me want to learn so much more about whisky and trying so many new things, and now I can appreciate both smoky and other whiskies alike.
I owe my first introduction to Islay Scotch to the magnificent legendary "Ron Swanson".. on an episode of Parks and Rec, they took a trip to England. Ron's reward for suffering through the trip was a trip to the Lagavulin distillery. It brought him to tears. I knew at that moment I must search out this great elixir of life. After that it was the very same commercials you discussed that got me hooked on Laphroaig.. been hooked on the smoke ever since even though I cant smell it.
Wow! I really loved what Rex was saying about the journey of Islay. I have found myself knee-deep in that journey and am beginning to find sweet, almost toffee notes under some Islays. I guess I need to try some bourbons and highland single malts next!
Just tried Ardbeg 10 for my first trip onto Islay. Whoa, it does not taste like anything I have ever tried. Took forever for the flavor to leave my mouth, lol. Not sure it is my type, but worth having it in the cabinet for comparison when other are over. Now I know what everyone talks about when it comes to Islay. And I thank you MB's for getting me to try it!
I had the Octomore several months ago. From what I remember: It was like if you took a band-aid, smeared it with a thin layer of petroleum jelly, dunk that in salt, burn it black directly on an electric stove-top, and then put that in a bottle of Lephroaig-soaked-Ham-water for like 8 months.
When we made it through 5-2 and there was no mention of Lagavulin I was sure it was going to be left out. I'm not sure I'd personally put it #1 but I'm super happy that it's on the list.
Lagavullin 16 as the first place was not really a surprise, and it is great. And I never expected my personal favorite to come up. But I gotta just write "Caol Ila 12" as my normal day go to and "Caol Ila 18" as a birthday whisky.
First time I tasted Laphroaig I said out loud "How could anyone drink this! " The next day I decided to try it again. "Oh, I get it!" was what I said. It's now my favorite.
I recall that my 1st Laphroaig 10 yr experience was like my first wasabi experience. In neither case had I been warned to not inhale while tasting. Sinus FIRE!! :O
I just bought Laphroig 10 for my first taste of Islay scotch, primarily because it was half the price of Lagavulin 16. Laphroig did not disappoint. Now I have to pony up the cash for Lagavulin.
I became a huge Islay fan and then went back to Macallan and had exactly the experience you mentioned. The wealth of subtle flavors I had never tasted before was eye opening.
100% agree. The most strange balance ever tasted. It is an absolute surprise. I never imagine that butter and sea taste, with the long smokiness between, create such pleasure.
I’m a little late to the party, but Caol Ila 12 is my favorite. They are a sister distillery with Lagavulin, and to my knowledge, the only difference in their production is the shape of the stills and maturation. It’s basically the afternoon shower version of Lagavulin’s downpour.
That journey through Islays that Rex talked about is me over the past several years. I became a peat-head (and a hop-head) in college, and while I do still enjoy those occasionally, my current favorite Scotch brand is The Balvenie. Although my single favorite whisky is Aberlour A'bunadh, it's not sold at the stores in Mississippi, so The Balvenie 12, 14, and 15 have been my go-tos.
When I went to the whisky live in Paris the octomore taste stayed in my mouth for at least 24h even though I brushed my teeth like 3 times and drank a lot of water! Still I'd love to have another go at this special drink!
Interesting that Octomore and Classic Laddie , on opposite ends of the scale in terms of peatiness, come from the same distillery. Loved touring bruiccladdich, not only for the scotch, but an excellent tasting gin in the Botanist. Well done.
DARRELL D It pains me to say, it’s not what it used to be. I’ve been drinking it since 1986 and my last 2 bottles were ‘just going through the motions’. Still a decent dram though 🏴
I love when my random purchase lines up with your videos. The first was when I picked up Yamazaki 12. And today I picked up Ardbeg An Oa My first Ardbeg, looking forward to when this sinus infection bugs out. So I can enjoy this new whiskey
I have An Oa in my glassware as of writing, I call it the softie of Islays, the great gateway drug to Islays, very balanced, a true delicacy if you appreciate the smoke and tar but do not like the coal charred grittyness that can be had with some Laphroaigs. I went through Laphroaigs Swedish edition many years ago, some of my tasting notes include "the taste of high end vodka sifted through the remains of your smoldering burnt down home". Laph S.E., Not the best Scotch for me but I don't even regret it, it takes exploring to know what you like. (Laphroaig 10 is almost always available at my house, love 'em.. but next bottle will be 16 or 18)
Well.. what can I say , years ago I tasted 2 cl of Supernova (Ardbeg) in a hazy small bar founded by an old sailor. That experience is the most memorable of all , because the whiskey lives up to its name. Too bad that bottle is pricey these days , so I probably can't relive that moment ever again. But the top 5 list is all my favorites too.
Lagavulin 12 was the first drink that I had which made me understand the idea of a complex flavor. My wife asked, "Do you like it?" I responded, "I don't know, but I enjoy it." It starts off sweet on the tongue. As you take it across the tongue it gives a hint of pepper, before changing into the deep smoky finish. That transforming flavor just unhinged my brain with trying to grasp how one sip could change so drastically in a single sip.
Way to go Joe. You are a trooper. The Octomore 7.1 was the last one I picked up. We grabbed it for a big Isla tasting. The folks that tried it after and let it breath in the glass for 30 minutes all started picking up figs and raisins and sweet cherries. This one was pretty hot and definitely benefited from a bit of time in the glass. Hop in, buckle your chin strap and hang on. It was a fun one.
New to this journey - started with a solo trip to KY this year to hit the trail. Found you two shortly before. Two good decisions thus far! Thanks for the education and the shenanigans.
I’ve done the Isla whiskey tour. On the way there we stopped at Jura. They make some really great whiskey, but it can be hard to find. While I like the smoky flavor, much of the Ardbeg is too peaty-it’s their trademark. We really enjoyed Bruichladdich, Laphroaig and Caol Ila, but the best Caol Ila isn’t exported, and most of their output goes into Johnny Walker blends. I tend to favor cask strength and sherry cask, but some of them also use bourbon casks that gives the scotch a unique flavor. There’s too many different ones to sample them all. So much Scotch, so little time. Plan to take at least a week because it’s hard to do more than three distillery tours a day.
I remember the first time I bought a bottle of Laphroaig 10, I had at that point bought a couple dozens bottles of scotch while still buying my favorite bourbons mixed in. I had even spent about $200 on a 18 year Glenlivet and really enjoyed most of what I had purchased. I spring for the Laphroaig because of this channel and learning about Islay scotch from you guys, it was like a boot to the teeth with the iodine. I remember thinking, how in the hell am I ever going to drink this. It sat on the shelf for a month or two and I lit a cigar one night and decided it was a good opportunity to pour a full glass and just work through the flavor. It was still a smack in the face but the more of that bottle I drank over the next couple weeks the more I began to notice flavor beyond the iodine. If it wasn’t for you guys and the many many excellent recommendations I’ve taken your word on before, idk if I would’ve followed through to enjoy Laphroaig or Islay in general. Lagavulin 16 is among 3 bottles that I must try next, I’ve never had a Macallan 18, or a Glendronach 15.
I bought a bottle of lagavulin so long ago, never opened it because I never had a scotch before. I mainly only drank bourbon, but I finally tasted it and it killed me in smokeyness..... But after I tried it a second time, I love it now!!! Wife got me an ardbeg uigeadail, but I'm loving lagavulin MORE than ardbeg.
Have yet to try the Bruichladdich Octomore, but it's on my list. I actually tried the Ardbeg Uigeadail before the Ardbeg 10, which I have yet to try, and I loved it! Looking forward to discern the difference between the Uigeadail and the 10.
My wife usually buys me Lagavulin 16 for Christmas and my birthday. She couldn't find any this year. She did find Lagavulin 12 which is pretty good and Lagavulin 8 which is OK.
I love your channel. You guys are great. Thank you for all your reviews and help. I started my Whisky journey with a few picks from the top 10 choices for beginners. (I know taste is subjective but these top 10 videos help a lot). I got a bottle of Monkey Shoulder and Glenfiddich 12. Both very excellent Whiskys' but I just picked up a bottle of Laphroaig 10 and I've fallen in LOVE with those nose. (I've kept the bottle within arms reach so I can smell it all day). Those smoky, briney, medicinal, meaty, barbecue notes are incredible I really can't see myself being able to go back to Monkey Shoulder / Glenfiddich 12 at the moment. I know I need to keep an open mind and continue to explore different flavors and regions like Irish, Japanese, Bourbon etc, but I have a feeling my future purchases are going to be Islay Whisky for the time being. I LOVE IT. It's fantastic.
Nice comparison made between Islay drinkers and hop heads. I've been exposed to the world of craft beer way more than whiskey, and I do find myself reaching for highly hopped IPAs...AND...delicate lagers. I think it's all part of the journey to appreciate both ends at different times.
I love the stories and comments on here. For me, my first bottle was when I was 13 - say 1986. It was a gift for dad. He was a scotch lover but he did not know about Lagavulin. Each Father’s Day I would go with mom to the liquor store and I would just point to a random bottle, that year it happened to be Lagavulin. That was the first time any of us had tried it. And of course it was it in an instant star. It’s been a family favorite ever since……
Laphroaig reminds me of going to work with my dad early in the morning. The catch is that we have to drive through an industrial steel processing area that smells terrible, shout out to the armpit of Ontario know more formally as Hamilton.
There are 9 distilleries now, a new one just opened about 2 months ago........Ardnahoe. It's on the same road as Bunnahabhain, only a small distillery but has great view up the sound of islay where you can see colonsay and mull on a clear day
I have an Octomore 09.1 that I'm afraid to finish because I don't think I can get it again. When I first tried the 09.1, I really had to work for it, but now I love it. Lagavulin was my gateway. I haven't picked up a bottle in a looong time, though. Maybe I should revisit it...
I agree with you about getting into the Islay scotches and scotch in general , that now bourbons have largely lost their cache with me, and I used to be repulsed by scotch. It’s been a weird transition .
Because of Whiskey Tribe I’ve recently branched out from only drinking bourbon to now loving the super Smokey scotches I used to be afraid of. Like the Ardbeg Wee Beastie I just got yesterday…so tasty!
I'm 1000% in agreement about Lagavulin 16. I have a bottle of the Octomore that a friend bought me a few years back and haven't opened. After your comments on the Octomore, I'm going to have to crack it open. Excellent review.
My dad has always drank blends. Ive spent the better part of the last 2 years trying to get him to try bourbons, sherry cask finishes, Irish and all other types. He was never a fan of those. Thought he wouldn’t like Islay, until I brought a lephroigh, his words “finally a good one”. Turns out he liked peat. Who would though.
@@WhiskeyTribe God yes. My wife still hates me for buying a bottle of Ardbeg uigeadail last month. But I'm addicted to that peat. I know I will buy it someday. I just hope my marriage can survive.
@@jasonmacdonald3056 are the .3's different from the rest? The 08.3 is the only Octomore I ever tasted. I know there is a bar here somewhere that serves another Octomore by the ml. But didn't go for it yet.
Went to Islay exactly a year ago and had the best experience. Never heard of Octomore until we visited Bruichladdich. I thought I was a peathead but that is intense. Spot on comment about delving into peat and coming back around to discovering more in other whiskeys later on.
It is a beautiful island and village...it try to visit Islay and Port Ellen as much as possible..to visit my very good friends Freddie and Magie Bell...I really love the Peat monsters of Islay but if you love the sweetness and fullness of Islay I would recommend Bunnahabhain 18 or the more exclusive Bunnahabhain Moine aged on Marsala casks.
I honestly don't agree Raccoon. To me Laphoraig is more peaty, and flavorful. If I drink Laphoraig before Lagavulin I don't even taste the stuff. The other way around however is how I prefer to drink Islay Scotch.
By far the best crash course experiencing the notes I’ve seen. Probably should teach this class, everyone that comes in is required to learn the proper notes...
Funny thing is, I just started making a conscious effort of learning to appreciate whiskey 2 months ago, not really having drunk any alcohol before. It's been a rough ride. But more importantly, I had no idea such a thing as peated whiskeys existed until I started looking into all the different types. So I wouldn't assume this to be common knowledge.
Same. Couldn't stand whiskey for the longest time, then I started buying stuff I recognized from Whiskey Tribe and Whiskey Vault and fell in love Angel's Envy, which fueled a desire to find more stuff I like. Planning on buying an islay today, so I'm here rewatching this
@@Grom-rl8bm I asked a guy at my local store for some advice. He said "If you're new to Whiskey and want to try something peated, start with Connemara, don't go for an Islay straight away, it'll scare you off. Words of wisdom, probably. I didn't regret it.
@@Krawurxus I ended up going with Oban 14. Can't say the funk being the leading note didn't suprise me. I don't dislike it, I like all the flavors besides for the funk but it's growing on me as I try to pick it apart and figure out exactly what that funk reminds me of
Just recently tried an islay at a restaurant. Asked for their best. Loved it and purchased a bottle. The scotch? Lagavulin 16. Talk about lucky for a scotch newbie.
I definitely started with heavy smokey Islay's myself, but later found a nice sweet spot with good ol' murican burban. Moral of the story Whiskey is good.....all of it...OK most of it. LOL
After drinking Laphroaig, GlenFiddich, Macallan... I cant drink Jack Daniels anymore. Its been ruined for me, so there is truth to what he said about the Islay's.
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My grampa is a huge lagavulin drinker and he always says, “there are two types of whisky, 16 year old Lagavulin and children’s whisky!”
Grampa used to work on a farm on the mainland near Islay, he had a friend that worked in the Lagavulin distillery who would let him into the warehouse and they used to use these tin tube things to steal it out of the barrels. At grampa’s 90th birthday we gave everyone there a lagavulin 16 to toast his long life with.
damn , hes a legend , cheers to him
Cool story! 😎
I think the tube like device you are referring to is called an Aberdeen Dog. Distillery workers used to use them for exactly the purpose you describe. If the device has a popular name you can be pretty sure your Grandad was not the only one with a taste for a bit of illicit whisky!
Those tube tins are call copper dog. He is a real OG. Slainte to your Grandpa!
So, it isn't Angel's Share why whisky disappears from barrels, it's grampa's share.
That's awesome
I just bought a bottle of the Lagavulin 16, haven't opened it yet. I'm waiting for a special occasion like, maybe, 6 o'clock tonight?
Rowland Hempel nice
How did u find it? I'm unsure lol
@@yanan3681 It was delicious. Highly recommended.
@@yanan3681 I hope you grabbed a bottle, Lagavulin is essential.
So far, that Lagavulin 16 is my favorite Islay. Laphroig 10 just a bit too briny for me, but their "Select" is nice if you can find it. Lore is not available readily in Pennsylvania.
I’m not ashamed to admit that I discovered Lagavulin because of a TV show. God Bless you Nick Offerman for changing my life.
Same :)) I found Wild Turkey thanks to the movie. And ofc Lagavulin thanks to Ron Swanson and that bottle was the doorway to the whole world of whiskey to me. My drinking experience is on a whole new level ever since.
Fun Fact: when Ron was shot in a head he actually drinks North Port 20. Unfortunately that distillery was demolished in 1994 and last bottles are long gone for insane prices.
i am newbie and i discovered most whiskey from WHISKEY TRIBE !!! REX AND DANIEL IS WAY TOO COOL AND AWESOME !!! MAGNIFICENCE !!!
@@travelerempty from whiskey tribe I discovered a ton of whiskeys that are unavailable in my area and I will never ever have a chance to try anyway. Cool xDDD
>this
Same here. Had I not seen Parks I wouldn't have discovered the depths of Islay.
I have had Lagavulin and Laphroaig and Ardbeg.
No shame, why not share a beautiful taste with the world.
Hell scotch can be a dish with the flavors given.
If it helps I discovered Ardbeg thanks to these guys
also Ardbeg at 0:40
#5 Laphroaig Lore at 0:56
#4 Laphroaig 10 at 2:37
#3 Ardbeg Uigeadail at 4:30
#2 Ardbeg 10 at 5:22
#1 Lagavulin 16 at 7:27
honorable mention whisky at 8:27
whisky science at 10:38
No Talisker?
Fungus Amungus talisker isn’t an islay
Was just going off the top 5 smoky title
You the real MVP
@@derricka8880 Not from Islay.
“Stinky cheese and a burning tire”
Wonderful. My wife just said “I don’t understand you”
Lol...same with my wife!
I don't get it either and I'm a big bearded man lol. But my buddy is a whiskey head so here I am.
That's not how I would describe these. I love Islay Scotch but I think describing them like this is irritating. Smokey yes, briny, like the sea. Think of a campfire on the beach. You also get medicinal qualities but to me it's herbal and sharp in a pleasant way, clean and brisk. Especially with the Laphroaig. The smell of evaporated rain off the road.
If you add water to some of these, just a drop, you'll start to pick up more of the mellow flavors of honey and vanilla. Especially if they have used bourbon casks.
Lol same as my husband!
Same here but it's my boyfriend that does not understands ME! I love it!!
The first Scotch I ever bought was Laphroaig 10 when I was 18. I bought it because the protagonist in the novel The Eiger Sanction drank it. I liked it back then because it was such a unique and challenging experience. I like it now because it tastes great and has great memories attached to it.
I bought Wild Turkey because protagonist in some movie about snowboarding was drinking it. No regrets. The smoothest simplest bourbon I've ever had. Lagavulin coz of Ron Swanson obviously. Even better. First time I could truly appreciate the taste of whiskey.
i went from not drinking alcohol at all to trying laphroaig and talisker first and didnt find them challenging at all. i then went almost straight to octomore and found it slightly challenging the first time, these days it doesnt do much for me ☹ i have high smoke resistance i guess.
That's funny as shit, I bought it the first time because of the book Shibumi by Trevanian.
@@buddystewart2020
Gold!
Probably easier to get into Laprhoaig than spelunking too
@@alberttresslevic914 ... Fact.
Awesome timing of your video! Myself and four friends just got back today from a week on Islay. We toured and tasted at all nine distilleries (including Ardnahoe - they don't have any aged whisky yet but they are distilling in a brand new facility and let us taste the wash). Also had quite a few different whiskies during a Lagavulin tour hosted by Iain McArther who let us taste some special editions and even a 53 year old straight from the cask. We asked him what he thought was the best, and he said, "you'll not get better than the 16." Bunnahabhain was also memorable with their peated Toiteach a' dha and a 14 year old peated whisky that was aged in Pedro Ximinez sherry barrels which were hands down some of our favorites. Bottom line, all the Islay distilleries produce amazing whisky and it was an epic trip.
TCBColt Jealous.
My five of what I’ve had would be
5 - Caol Ila 12
4 - Port Charlotte 10
3 - Laphroaig Quarter Cask
2 - Ardbeg 10
1 - Lagavulin 16
That’s a fine list.
Laphroaig 10 was the first scotch I ever had. I said out loud to no one, "Oh my God, what is happening in my mouth!?!". No matter what other whiskeys I try, in the end, I always wish it had been Laphroaig 10. Could be my palate isn't sophisticated enough to enjoy "delicate".
First smokey scotch I've tried was Laphroaig and I feel the same. Everything else seems sub par since.
@@As_Asa_PhD hola mates, if you had to chose for one drink to have for thanksgiving which one would it be, laphroaig 10 or port charlotte ?
@@robertoalvarez88 As long as you enjoyed it then you drank it correctly, screw the snobs who say you have to drink it a certain way
Laphroaig 10 was my first Islay, and I had a similar experience. My first Scotch was Macallan 12, and it was a good intro.
Same here. I thought it was like drinking a campfire.
I enjoyed it very much.
I am so happy Lagavulin got number one, that stuff is the nectar of the whisky gods.
dude!!! spoiler...
@@perlofski only if you are reading the comments while watching instead of after.
And rightly so. It is Islay #1 for a reason.
Lagavulin 16 is really really good and complex, but Ardbeg 17 or Dark Cove were so damn good too.... You have too try 👍😉
for not much more the distiller's edition is even better
Burnt rubber, iodine, stinky cheese, pool smell, seagull armpit... here, take my 90 bucks.
lol for years i refused to try an islay seeing as all those descriptors are repulsive and things i was certain i'd never want to consume, but after trying laphroaig quarter cask and lagavulin 8 i was totally sold and find myself preferring heavily peated islay's to most any other type of scotch.
hahahaha TAKE. MY. MONEY
@French Frys I appreciate your enthusiasm for weaponizing your ignorance.
@French Frys No, you're ignorant because you confuse your opinion for fact and present it as such... and then proceed to insult those who feel differently. These are things you do if you're ignorant, or unintelligent, or six. (I apologize if it turns out you're six. But grow up. By the time you turn seven you should be better than this.)
@ Rhabdo B
Y'know that was my first impression when my nose came into contact with Ardbeg 10...Then instead of allowing it to intimidate me, I took a sip and since, I've become hopelessly smitten. Ardbeg 10 is the ELIXIR VITAE!
The crossover of flavors between islay scotches and Latakia pipe tobacco blends is amazing. I’ve always had the traditional Speyside blends. As I explore more I am headed straight for the Islay blends.
Of the readily available Islay scotches, Uigeadail is hands down my favorite. The proof, the sherry, the smoke, the bacon. There is nothing in whisky that is quite as good as fruit finished scotch.
I had my first laphroaig 10 a couple of weeks ago (I know I have been slow to the scotch game). It gave me a flashback to a trip on a fishing boat from Ayr to Arran when I was 11 years old. On the island we saw them making small boats covering them with hides and painting them with hot tar. That is drinking Laphroaig 10 to me.
I just bought a bottle of laphroaig 10 because of all the hype. I’m sorry to say the smell of the peat and iodine then the flavor was the biggest let down of my life. I admit, I do not have an distinguished nor experienced whisky pallet, especially not scotch whisky. I was so looking forward to falling in love with it. No disrespect to the company or those that enjoy it. I’ll keep searching.
@@Dad8802112 good luck with your search.
@@Dad8802112 Honestly to me it tastes like burnt pine sap and wet leather. That being said two of my hobbies are woodworking and making renaissance armor... so it's perfect for me.
The Laga 16 is still my favourite of the peat beasts. It's just so rich and welcoming and makes me want to get amongst it like a campfire would.
I wish I could bottle it in a cologne but sadly I'd smell like an alcoholic!
lol brilliant! :D
Would really love to see a top 5 whiskeys of each region
My very first whisky was Lagavulin 16, and I haven’t found a new favorite since.
Thank you Ron Swanson
We had our company Christmas party the other night and I ordered
laphroaig. My coworkers were turned off by the aroma of it, but once I had them try it, they loved the salty/sweetness of it. I love the smokey smell as it reminds me of winter and sitting by the fireplace.
I was camping a few weeks ago with friends, and after I had a few sips, we poured some Octomore for someone, and he damn near was in tears professing love for it.
LMAO 😂 I must get myself a bottle.
Just tried Ardbeg 10 tonight. It did NOT disappoint. I feel like I was laying in the barley while it was smoked. I feel like I need a shower because I just enjoyed a bonfire in the back yard but the firewood was too wet so now I stink like smoke. I look forward to peeling back that smoke layer because the first thing that hit me on the taste was amazing. Then the smoke almost immediately overwhelmed it to the point where I couldn’t even identify what I was tasting. So glad I found this channel.
Give the wee beastie and ugedail a try. Both are exceptional. The wee beastie is only 45$ a bottle but absolutely delicious.
I have a Pavlovian response whenever I hear the words "Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky"... I immediately begin to drool and dream of returning to Islay, to once again visit the distilleries and drink of the sweet nectar of the gods. In terms of more readily available Islay whiskies my Top 5 would be (1) Ardbeg 10 which in my opinion has one of the highest quality/price ratios (2) Laphroaig 10 Cask Strength. It is nothing like the regular 10. I recently had the Batch 010 and it is freaking awesome! (3) Bunnahahbain 12 is very lightly peated (3 ppm) but if you can get your hands on a Bunnahahbain Moine Oloroso bottling BUY IT! (4) Lagavulin 16 - no explanation necessary (5) Octomore from Bruichladdich. They are EXPENSIVE ($175-$200 USD) but absolutely phenomenal!
That sounds like a solid list right there
It’s funny how you mention going on extreme flavor journeys. A friend and me sought out and drank nothing but dark ales, stouts, and porters for an entire winter. Beer brewed with oysters, bacon, molasses, maple syrup, etc. We traveled to various breweries and would even travel to other states to buy beer that wasn’t available locally (this is just before places like Half Time and other craft beer exclusive stores came around, so we had trouble ordering stuff to our local beverage marts). It was super cool. We were also huge into bourbon. A few years later, I was diagnosed with a health condition (not alcohol related) and I can’t drink due to the medication I take for it. We still nerd out over beer and whiskey, though. I drink vicariously through my pals lol
This is why I love you guys!! The whole time I was like, poor Bruichladdich, they never get the recognition they deserve. And of course, you guys pay tribute at the end.
Lagavulin 16 is the literal best scotch of my life. I love it so so much. I fell in love with it over 20 years ago and I will always go to this as a personal choice and will always advise friends who ask about ‘a good whiskey’ to get this. It’s greatness knows no bounds.
I never thought that I would enjoy a peaty smokey scotch, and I tried the Ardbeg Uigeadeil. It has lovely layers of flavor. It totally shocked me by how much I enjoy it. Thank you!
Same here. Bought a bottle with the intention of only breaking it out on special occasions but I downed the whole bottle in like two weeks
This week was my first contact with Islay peat whiskeys. My first glass of Laphroaig 10 was overwhelming and somewhat disappointing. Two days later I tried Lagavulin 8 this time and was equally amazed and fascinated. I did not know that smoky aromas could marry so well with a sweetness that little by little it was coming out of its hiding place behind a smoke screen. Today I just gave Laphroaig 10 a second chance and this time I have managed to tune in to what this whiskey is capable of offering. It has taken me to Scorsese's movie "Shutter Island" over the cliff, into the cave with the fire, into the gloomy corridors of a drug-scented asylum. And suddenly, in two drinks it has turned into a placid beach gathering on a starry night with friends around a candle. And the anise, raisins and candied dark fruit have come out behind the same mysterious smokescreen from the beginning. What a trip, friends!
Lagavulin 16 is my favorite scotch. The only knock I have on it is that coloring is added to the scotch to make it look darker.
The abv is a bit low for me. I like the 8 better.
Back in the late 1980's I was fortunate to have lived for two years close to Hadrian's Wall in Scotland. During my time in Scotland my wife and I visited its far reaches with a singular goal in mind, to visit each and every scotch distillery we possibly could. Early on I bought by chance a bottle of Lagavulin 16 while in Edinburgh. Later, back to our B+B in one of the most mememorable moments of my life, just before turning in for the night, I decided to crack the bottle open for a wee dram (neat). As I raised it to my nose I was immediately taken back by the most exquisite, complex, and sensual aroma I'd ever smelled, and totally surprised, I then spent minutes examining its color and savoring its remarkable aroma. I then took a small sip and let it float around in my mouth and I was totally taken aback by what I can only explain as an out-of-body, unearthly experience... Though liquid, the Lagavulin tasted as if it were in a gaseous state in my mouth, again, something I had never encountered before in anything that I had ever eaten or drank. But, hard to believe, the best was yet to come as I slowly swallowed this luscious liquid/gas. I am at loss to put it into words, but as it slowly trickled down my throat it felt as if I had just taken a magical potion, some lozenge of a liquid and gaseous honey infused with magical herbs and smooth as silk as it went down. Better yet, the taste and feeling stayed in my mouth, nose and throat for several minutes as I continued to relish both the aroma, taste, and feel for several minutes as I tried to figure out what I had just experienced. My wife asked me if I was OK, to which I said try this, and after she tried just a small sip and savored it for minutes she said, oh my God, what the F is this stuff, totally amazed..! We spoke in amazement and then both slowly finished off what remained in the glass, each sip as good as the first. In the morning we rushed into town and bought what remained of the same stock (about 2 cases worth), vowing to use it as a gold standard by which to compare other scotch whiskies. We lived in other parts of Europe for several years before returning to the states in 96 and unfortunately, soon discovered that the Lagavulin sold stateside was very different from that sold in Scotland. To test our theory we have twice returned to Scotland and Islay, where Lagavulin is distilled, and though not as great as our late 80's batch, found the Lagavulin sold in Scotland to be light years better than that being marketed in the states. We still have 3 bottles of our old stock left, treat it like gold, and sip some together every New Years Eve while we reminiscence. Over the years we have shared a touch of it to other scotch whiskie lovers, some who stock up on the thousands of $$$ a bottle stuff, and just sit back and watch as their mouths drop after tasting it and hear them all describe it as unearthly experience like no other. And though we have never been able to find another Lagavulin bottle comparable to our first cases, I agree that even a mediocre bottle of modern day Lagavulin 16 is better than 95% of the other scotch whiskies being marketed nowadays in today's glutted, over hyped and expensive market. But, to each their own, and I wish you luck finding that perfect batch! Just remember, as any good Scottish Innkeeper will remind any tourist asking for a glass of scotch with ice and water will say -- so laddy, you're going to ruin it twice? -- and always order it neat, and if you must, with a touch of water on the side. You will earn a Innkeepers respect doing so. For those interested in traveling Scotland and learning more about whiskie, I would recommend researching the "whiskie trail" and taking a detour to Islay. Live long and prosper!
I don't have much experience with scotch yet, but the ardbeg 10 is my favorite so far. I love the smoked meat flavor. It reminds me of a cookout.
I agree 100/100. When you start on cask strength and peatiness you never go back. Also I am proud to have drank every one of those that you presented in the video haha. Lastly, Glenlivet nadura heavily peated is a very nice Highland contender to the Islay dominance in the field. I definitely recommend to any cask strength and peat lover
So I definitely consider myself a hardcore peat man, and I'm so glad you've introduced Octomore to me, I already have a bottle in the cart, just gotta wait until next payday. I'm near giddy with excitement.
How did you like it?
So....... I had Ardbeg for the first time tonight. I know this is an old video. BUT Jesus!!! Everyone I was with smelled it and said I was a "better man" (though I am a girl). No idea which vintage/version I had but loved the smoke/taste!! Usually stick to bourbon exclusively. First sip was strong like I have heard in your other videos but I kept loving it more and more with each sip. Thank you for helping me try new things!
I'm pretty happy with this list and think you've nailed it, of the four I've tasted (not had the Lore). Lagavulin 16 really is a prime Islay sample. As for your comments on peat lovers, I was actually in that boat until I discovered your two youtube channels--they've made me want to learn so much more about whisky and trying so many new things, and now I can appreciate both smoky and other whiskies alike.
I owe my first introduction to Islay Scotch to the magnificent legendary "Ron Swanson".. on an episode of Parks and Rec, they took a trip to England. Ron's reward for suffering through the trip was a trip to the Lagavulin distillery. It brought him to tears. I knew at that moment I must search out this great elixir of life. After that it was the very same commercials you discussed that got me hooked on Laphroaig.. been hooked on the smoke ever since even though I cant smell it.
Wow! I really loved what Rex was saying about the journey of Islay. I have found myself knee-deep in that journey and am beginning to find sweet, almost toffee notes under some Islays. I guess I need to try some bourbons and highland single malts next!
Just tried Ardbeg 10 for my first trip onto Islay. Whoa, it does not taste like anything I have ever tried. Took forever for the flavor to leave my mouth, lol. Not sure it is my type, but worth having it in the cabinet for comparison when other are over. Now I know what everyone talks about when it comes to Islay. And I thank you MB's for getting me to try it!
Remember to enunciate when you tell the bartender, "I really like peatiness" otherwise she'll look at you funny and just walk away :(
I rarely laugh out loud..... But I did. Congrats!
You win the comments section today
Jesus christ I actually laughed out loud
I don’t get it?
I had the Octomore several months ago. From what I remember: It was like if you took a band-aid, smeared it with a thin layer of petroleum jelly, dunk that in salt, burn it black directly on an electric stove-top, and then put that in a bottle of Lephroaig-soaked-Ham-water for like 8 months.
lol........I like octomore
When we made it through 5-2 and there was no mention of Lagavulin I was sure it was going to be left out. I'm not sure I'd personally put it #1 but I'm super happy that it's on the list.
Kilchoman Sanaig and Ardbeg Corryvreckan are my go to drinks
Lagavullin 16 as the first place was not really a surprise, and it is great. And I never expected my personal favorite to come up. But I gotta just write "Caol Ila 12" as my normal day go to and "Caol Ila 18" as a birthday whisky.
First time I tasted Laphroaig I said out loud "How could anyone drink this! " The next day I decided to try it again. "Oh, I get it!" was what I said. It's now my favorite.
I recall that my 1st Laphroaig 10 yr experience was like my first wasabi experience. In neither case had I been warned to not inhale while tasting. Sinus FIRE!! :O
YES!!!!! PERFECT COMPARISON!
I just bought Laphroig 10 for my first taste of Islay scotch, primarily because it was half the price of Lagavulin 16. Laphroig did not disappoint. Now I have to pony up the cash for Lagavulin.
I love Laphroig 10 - if thats what mermaid bathwater tastes like.... i need to find some mermaids.
craigslist.
I became a huge Islay fan and then went back to Macallan and had exactly the experience you mentioned. The wealth of subtle flavors I had never tasted before was eye opening.
Best shennanigans ever 😂😂. Woulda' had the Caol Ila 12 in that list myself, but that's just personal opinion.
I like it too. The Ardbeg OnOa is another to add to your list of fun ones to try.
I'm a big fan of this too. Only discovered it 3 months ago.
It's a fine dram!
100% agree. The most strange balance ever tasted. It is an absolute surprise. I never imagine that butter and sea taste, with the long smokiness between, create such pleasure.
I’m a little late to the party, but Caol Ila 12 is my favorite. They are a sister distillery with Lagavulin, and to my knowledge, the only difference in their production is the shape of the stills and maturation. It’s basically the afternoon shower version of Lagavulin’s downpour.
That journey through Islays that Rex talked about is me over the past several years. I became a peat-head (and a hop-head) in college, and while I do still enjoy those occasionally, my current favorite Scotch brand is The Balvenie. Although my single favorite whisky is Aberlour A'bunadh, it's not sold at the stores in Mississippi, so The Balvenie 12, 14, and 15 have been my go-tos.
When I went to the whisky live in Paris the octomore taste stayed in my mouth for at least 24h even though I brushed my teeth like 3 times and drank a lot of water! Still I'd love to have another go at this special drink!
Interesting that Octomore and Classic Laddie , on opposite ends of the scale in terms of peatiness, come from the same distillery. Loved touring bruiccladdich, not only for the scotch, but an excellent tasting gin in the Botanist. Well done.
Couldn't agree more with the #1 pick 🥃
A must have for any proper scotch drinker 👍
DARRELL D It pains me to say, it’s not what it used to be. I’ve been drinking it since 1986 and my last 2 bottles were ‘just going through the motions’. Still a decent dram though 🏴
Laga 16 is my all time favorite. Just found a 750 ml for $80 here in WI when every other time I saw it in stores was around $100 - $110.
I love when my random purchase lines up with your videos.
The first was when I picked up Yamazaki 12.
And today I picked up Ardbeg An Oa
My first Ardbeg, looking forward to when this sinus infection bugs out. So I can enjoy this new whiskey
I have An Oa in my glassware as of writing, I call it the softie of Islays, the great gateway drug to Islays, very balanced, a true delicacy if you appreciate the smoke and tar but do not like the coal charred grittyness that can be had with some Laphroaigs.
I went through Laphroaigs Swedish edition many years ago, some of my tasting notes include "the taste of high end vodka sifted through the remains of your smoldering burnt down home".
Laph S.E., Not the best Scotch for me but I don't even regret it, it takes exploring to know what you like.
(Laphroaig 10 is almost always available at my house, love 'em.. but next bottle will be 16 or 18)
Well.. what can I say , years ago I tasted 2 cl of Supernova (Ardbeg) in a hazy small bar founded by an old sailor. That experience is the most memorable of all , because the whiskey lives up to its name. Too bad that bottle is pricey these days , so I probably can't relive that moment ever again. But the top 5 list is all my favorites too.
sounds like the perfect venue for a bit of smoky scotch.
Lagavulin 12 was the first drink that I had which made me understand the idea of a complex flavor. My wife asked, "Do you like it?" I responded, "I don't know, but I enjoy it." It starts off sweet on the tongue. As you take it across the tongue it gives a hint of pepper, before changing into the deep smoky finish. That transforming flavor just unhinged my brain with trying to grasp how one sip could change so drastically in a single sip.
Way to go Joe. You are a trooper. The Octomore 7.1 was the last one I picked up. We grabbed it for a big Isla tasting. The folks that tried it after and let it breath in the glass for 30 minutes all started picking up figs and raisins and sweet cherries. This one was pretty hot and definitely benefited from a bit of time in the glass. Hop in, buckle your chin strap and hang on. It was a fun one.
Might be my favorite episode thus far. We all strive to have friends that will tape us to the "wheel of fruition"!
If they didn’t choose Lagavulin 16, I would never take them seriously. By far and away Lagavulin 16 is my favorite single malt.
New to this journey - started with a solo trip to KY this year to hit the trail. Found you two shortly before. Two good decisions thus far! Thanks for the education and the shenanigans.
thanks for being here!
I’ve done the Isla whiskey tour. On the way there we stopped at Jura. They make some really great whiskey, but it can be hard to find. While I like the smoky flavor, much of the Ardbeg is too peaty-it’s their trademark. We really enjoyed Bruichladdich, Laphroaig and Caol Ila, but the best Caol Ila isn’t exported, and most of their output goes into Johnny Walker blends. I tend to favor cask strength and sherry cask, but some of them also use bourbon casks that gives the scotch a unique flavor. There’s too many different ones to sample them all. So much Scotch, so little time. Plan to take at least a week because it’s hard to do more than three distillery tours a day.
Sad to see Caol Ila didn't make the list, because I love that stuff.
Bunnahabhain 12 is a great and overlooked islay whisky, although not very peaty.
Esben Harding the moine version is, they only produce it once a year For a short time I believe.
Lagavulin is like drinking a campfire. I love it. Cheers.
I remember the first time I bought a bottle of Laphroaig 10, I had at that point bought a couple dozens bottles of scotch while still buying my favorite bourbons mixed in. I had even spent about $200 on a 18 year Glenlivet and really enjoyed most of what I had purchased. I spring for the Laphroaig because of this channel and learning about Islay scotch from you guys, it was like a boot to the teeth with the iodine. I remember thinking, how in the hell am I ever going to drink this. It sat on the shelf for a month or two and I lit a cigar one night and decided it was a good opportunity to pour a full glass and just work through the flavor. It was still a smack in the face but the more of that bottle I drank over the next couple weeks the more I began to notice flavor beyond the iodine. If it wasn’t for you guys and the many many excellent recommendations I’ve taken your word on before, idk if I would’ve followed through to enjoy Laphroaig or Islay in general. Lagavulin 16 is among 3 bottles that I must try next, I’ve never had a Macallan 18, or a Glendronach 15.
As an Islay fan I find my second favorite region is Island. I especially enjoy Jura and Talisker.
I bought a bottle of lagavulin so long ago, never opened it because I never had a scotch before. I mainly only drank bourbon, but I finally tasted it and it killed me in smokeyness..... But after I tried it a second time, I love it now!!! Wife got me an ardbeg uigeadail, but I'm loving lagavulin MORE than ardbeg.
Have yet to try the Bruichladdich Octomore, but it's on my list. I actually tried the Ardbeg Uigeadail before the Ardbeg 10, which I have yet to try, and I loved it! Looking forward to discern the difference between the Uigeadail and the 10.
My wife usually buys me Lagavulin 16 for Christmas and my birthday. She couldn't find any this year. She did find Lagavulin 12 which is pretty good and Lagavulin 8 which is OK.
I love your channel. You guys are great. Thank you for all your reviews and help. I started my Whisky journey with a few picks from the top 10 choices for beginners. (I know taste is subjective but these top 10 videos help a lot). I got a bottle of Monkey Shoulder and Glenfiddich 12. Both very excellent Whiskys' but I just picked up a bottle of Laphroaig 10 and I've fallen in LOVE with those nose. (I've kept the bottle within arms reach so I can smell it all day). Those smoky, briney, medicinal, meaty, barbecue notes are incredible I really can't see myself being able to go back to Monkey Shoulder / Glenfiddich 12 at the moment. I know I need to keep an open mind and continue to explore different flavors and regions like Irish, Japanese, Bourbon etc, but I have a feeling my future purchases are going to be Islay Whisky for the time being. I LOVE IT. It's fantastic.
Nice comparison made between Islay drinkers and hop heads. I've been exposed to the world of craft beer way more than whiskey, and I do find myself reaching for highly hopped IPAs...AND...delicate lagers. I think it's all part of the journey to appreciate both ends at different times.
If Lagavulin released a cask strength version of the 16 my life would be complete.
I love the stories and comments on here.
For me, my first bottle was when I was 13 - say 1986. It was a gift for dad. He was a scotch lover but he did not know about Lagavulin. Each Father’s Day I would go with mom to the liquor store and I would just point to a random bottle, that year it happened to be Lagavulin. That was the first time any of us had tried it. And of course it was it in an instant star. It’s been a family favorite ever since……
Poured some 09.1 right before I found this video. Perfect!! Also a huge port Charlotte 10 fan.
Nice. You're on to the good stuff!
Laphroaig reminds me of going to work with my dad early in the morning. The catch is that we have to drive through an industrial steel processing area that smells terrible, shout out to the armpit of Ontario know more formally as Hamilton.
Dofasco eh! I know the smell, and prefer Laphroig Lore!
There are 9 distilleries now, a new one just opened about 2 months ago........Ardnahoe. It's on the same road as Bunnahabhain, only a small distillery but has great view up the sound of islay where you can see colonsay and mull on a clear day
I have an Octomore 09.1 that I'm afraid to finish because I don't think I can get it again. When I first tried the 09.1, I really had to work for it, but now I love it.
Lagavulin was my gateway. I haven't picked up a bottle in a looong time, though. Maybe I should revisit it...
No one that talk about Laphroaig quarter cask? I love it....
I agree with you about getting into the Islay scotches and scotch in general , that now bourbons have largely lost their cache with me, and I used to be repulsed by scotch. It’s been a weird transition .
My favourit has to be the Lagavulin 16 Distillers Edition
Because of Whiskey Tribe I’ve recently branched out from only drinking bourbon to now loving the super Smokey scotches I used to be afraid of. Like the Ardbeg Wee Beastie I just got yesterday…so tasty!
Islay malts are my favourite, but they are not bottles that can be drunk in a session, maybe that is a blessing
I'm 1000% in agreement about Lagavulin 16. I have a bottle of the Octomore that a friend bought me a few years back and haven't opened. After your comments on the Octomore, I'm going to have to crack it open. Excellent review.
So how was it?
My dad has always drank blends. Ive spent the better part of the last 2 years trying to get him to try bourbons, sherry cask finishes, Irish and all other types. He was never a fan of those. Thought he wouldn’t like Islay, until I brought a lephroigh, his words “finally a good one”. Turns out he liked peat. Who would though.
Great list. My favorites in order:
1. Lag 16
2. Ardbeg Uigeadail
3. Ardbeg Corryvreckan
4. Laphroaig 10
5. Lag 12
The Corryvreckan is amazing!
I drank a laphroig 10 for the first time today, and 2 hours later, I still taste peat 🤣
Edit: I am now a full blown Islay guy
I drank one for the first time yesterday. Like drinking a campfire.
I enjoyed it very much.
@@TheVleckChannel Nice man, I’ve been collecting octomores lately, have 4 now :p it’s the holy water of peat
I was so scared that the Lagavulin 16 wouldn't be here. It's by far my favourite whiskeys.
This video made me pull up my Octomore 08.3 and pour myself a rare treat! This bottle is so amazing! :o
nice. i wish it was more affordable. i think there's a lot of peat lovers who would love octomore if it was just a bit cheaper.
@@WhiskeyTribe God yes. My wife still hates me for buying a bottle of Ardbeg uigeadail last month. But I'm addicted to that peat. I know I will buy it someday. I just hope my marriage can survive.
Kenneth Van den Berghe the Octomore .3s... once you’ve had them, that’s when everything else seems boring. Expensive, yes. But flipping amaze balls.
@@jasonmacdonald3056 are the .3's different from the rest? The 08.3 is the only Octomore I ever tasted. I know there is a bar here somewhere that serves another Octomore by the ml. But didn't go for it yet.
Having the 09.1 now Excellent.
Went to Islay exactly a year ago and had the best experience. Never heard of Octomore until we visited Bruichladdich. I thought I was a peathead but that is intense. Spot on comment about delving into peat and coming back around to discovering more in other whiskeys later on.
I live in Port Ellen! I have lived in Islay all my life
It is a beautiful island and village...it try to visit Islay and Port Ellen as much as possible..to visit my very good friends Freddie and Magie Bell...I really love the Peat monsters of Islay but if you love the sweetness and fullness of Islay I would recommend Bunnahabhain 18 or the more exclusive Bunnahabhain Moine aged on Marsala casks.
Is there not a silent distillery called Port Ellen, or at least that was the name of the whisky distilled there?
Luck lady
Just got a bottle of Ardbeg Wee Beastie and I absolutely love it! Making an old fashioned with a bit of maple is dangerously good!
I adore Islay Scotch! I'm a Laphoraig guy personally, but I do enjoy Lagavulin 16. Caol Ila?
I honestly don't agree Raccoon. To me Laphoraig is more peaty, and flavorful. If I drink Laphoraig before Lagavulin I don't even taste the stuff. The other way around however is how I prefer to drink Islay Scotch.
I also have a bottle of each, and a number of other Scotch's and Bourbons. I still don't agree.
By far the best crash course experiencing the notes I’ve seen. Probably should teach this class, everyone that comes in is required to learn the proper notes...
Funny thing is, I just started making a conscious effort of learning to appreciate whiskey 2 months ago, not really having drunk any alcohol before. It's been a rough ride.
But more importantly, I had no idea such a thing as peated whiskeys existed until I started looking into all the different types. So I wouldn't assume this to be common knowledge.
Same. Couldn't stand whiskey for the longest time, then I started buying stuff I recognized from Whiskey Tribe and Whiskey Vault and fell in love Angel's Envy, which fueled a desire to find more stuff I like. Planning on buying an islay today, so I'm here rewatching this
@@Grom-rl8bm I asked a guy at my local store for some advice. He said "If you're new to Whiskey and want to try something peated, start with Connemara, don't go for an Islay straight away, it'll scare you off.
Words of wisdom, probably. I didn't regret it.
@@Krawurxus I ended up going with Oban 14. Can't say the funk being the leading note didn't suprise me. I don't dislike it, I like all the flavors besides for the funk but it's growing on me as I try to pick it apart and figure out exactly what that funk reminds me of
Just recently tried an islay at a restaurant. Asked for their best. Loved it and purchased a bottle. The scotch? Lagavulin 16. Talk about lucky for a scotch newbie.
Lagavulin in top spot, I agree wholeheartedly. But personally, I like the rougher edges of the 8 y/o better.
True. All I drink is Ardbeg 10 since I tasted it. Delicious and the high is fantastic.
Ardbeg 10, but also Port Charlotte 10 for me. The latter is so sweet and gentle, and then a single drop of water burns your house down.
GreenMantaray Ardbeg 10 is hands down my go to Islay.
You guys are really good in expressing flavour and scent. I am new to whiskey, but I am learning so much from you guys. Thank you!
I definitely started with heavy smokey Islay's myself, but later found a nice sweet spot with good ol' murican burban. Moral of the story Whiskey is good.....all of it...OK most of it. LOL
Canadian Whiskey barely merits the honor of being called WHISKEY. As an industry it is embarrassing to be Canadian.
Good Bourbon is a wonderful thing 👍
After drinking Laphroaig, GlenFiddich, Macallan... I cant drink Jack Daniels anymore. Its been ruined for me, so there is truth to what he said about the Islay's.