No1 for me ... Talisker 10 year old ... the maritime, sea spray and elemental smoke of that Whisky coupled with it's sweet chilli bite - makes it utterly unique every time I drink it. There is simply no other Whisky quite like Tally 10. It is for me a salt water soaked leather boot to the palate and a finish like a torn sail snapping in the wind. I utterly concur with R.L Stevenson .... it's just a grand thing! HOLD FAST!
I love how you argue why these are your top five. Another great video, Roy! Here are my five: Bunna 12 Ardbeg 10 Springbank CS 12 (any batch) OP17 Glendronach 18 The last two are expensive but I have stocked up, so they had to be included.
Kilkerran 12 could have been on the list. I already have a replacement bottle for my current open bottle. I feel that Deanston 12 can be on my list in the future since I love my first bottle that I opened recently.
Superb video quality and excellent recommendations Roy, Thank you. Any chance we can have another video like this with your updated top 5's ?? Would be interesting to see what you will recommend in 2022 with soo many good options out there. :)
great video :) of all the whiskytube reviewers, i come back to your videos time and again :p (perhaps i'm biased, being scottish too :p i revisit ralfy's videos just as often). sharing your informed and experienced voice to help guide those of us with more limited budgets is greatly appreciated :) on a side note - i was intrigued at the prospect of a futurama-themed whisky, due to one of the "chapter names" in the timeline being "calculon 12 year old" :p seems that there was an "auto-transcribe" failure to interpret "kilkerran 12 year old" correctly >_< keep up the good work :)
Great video as always! I have a no-repurchase rule that helps me try more stuff, but if I had to pick 5 basics I'd love to keep around... -Bunnahabhain 12 -Bruichladdich Classic Laddie -Arran 14 -Benromach 10 -Springbank 10 Those have all served me extremely well in the past.
This video just came up on my feed, interesting to watch from four years ago. I'm wondering what the list would be now. Kilkerran is like rocking horse $#!+ to get hold of and that Laga 16 is a no no for many of us enthusiasts. What's your list like in 2022?? All the best chap 👍
Fantastic to watch as always Roy. Very good list. Right then. 1 Old Pulteney 12 2 Ardbeg 10 3 Glendronach 12 4 Bunnahabhain 12 5 Kilkerran 12 In no particular order, they seem to be in the cupboard all the time. All £40 or less. Great value for money drams.
Nice list! Sipping a Benromach 10 while watching. One of those which I always have available. Do you find that the Lagavulin 16 has been stable in quality over the last 10 years? I know it since 4 years and I started with an 0.2L bottle which impressed me a bit more than all the 0.7 bottles a had later. Still awsome but the small bottle was better. More intense peat aroma, which was still present in the morning...
Hi Roy, I totally agree with you on the Clynelish 14 as a go to. The few times I ran into a Diageo rep at a whisky show/festival I told them that Clynelish 14 is their best whisky product in their portfolio, and that maybe they should consider offer more whisky in such a presentation (46%). Too bad, their main consumer group is the mainstream whisky buyer and not the malthead. My top 5 is random order: - Inchmurrin 12 - Clynelish 14 - Royal Lochnagar 12 - Bunnahabhain 12 - Glen Garioch 12
When my son was born, i enjoyed a little dram of lagavulin 16 - ever since that Day, it has been my favorit whisky. Not the best whisky I have ever tastet but still my favorit. So good to have you back from summervacation Roy
Thanks Kasper - good to have you joining in again and it's great to be back. Great story on the Lagavulin - and my very words, not the best whisky, but *that* whisky. Cheers to you and your son!
An admirable list to be sure. The top two on my personal list of available and reasonably priced would be easy. Hadn't really thought of a top 5 but here goes. 5. Assuming I can always source it, Compass Box Peat Monster, 4. Clynelish 14, 3. Powers John Lane, 2. Lagavulin 16, 1. Talisker 18
Just received my 2 bottles of the Talisker 8 Cask Strength Special Release. Sampled it last night and loved it. Expected it to be akin the the Cadenhead Talisker cask strength releases back in the day, but it was quite dissimilar. Creamy, some of that tradition talisker pepper and spice, the brine mostly covered up by the proof. Add a little water and it becomes a luscious cream and introduces some vanilla. A taste I haven't found often in Talisker.
Lagavulin, absolutely but I would Go with the 16, using your criteria I’d have to go with Laga 16/Laphroaig 10 CS/Balvenie 15/Glenfarclas 25/Highland Park 18... at least without getting too expensive... always enjoy your videos! Cheers. ~Mike
Very interesting video (as always). Here's my 5 go to whiskies: 1. Method and Madness Pot Still 2. Compass Box Spice Tree 3. Linkwood 12 4. Deanston 12 5. Benromach 12 Close to these: Redbreast 12, Glenlivet 18, Hakushu DR, Clynelish 14
The whisky that has had a similar impact on me is the Dalwhinnie 15 year old. I'm fairly new on my "whisky journey" took me from something I'd drink from time to time because holding a whisky always looks good that was until I had this and it Changed my entire perception of whisky. But it was bought at random as I was in the whisky library in Tokyo and i got this because my wife liked the name of it and it was a transformative moment for me and really opened my eyes. I now find myself keen to try as much as I can and really broaden my horizons and videos like yours are really allowing me to do that.
I had the 8y0 CS KilKerran at a tasting a few months ago -- was by far the favorite of everyone there. Uniquely delicious. Lag 8yo far cheaper than the 16yo standard where I'm at and I'd say I like it more. One of my favs up there with Ardbeg 10yo. The Old Pultney 17yo is excellent. My top 5: 1. Ardbeg 10/and or Uigeadail 2. Talisker 10/and or DE 3. Abelour A'Bunadh 4. Lagavulin 8yo 5. Johnnie Walker Green
Lagavulin 16...MY FAVORITE, also. When someone I know first takes a whiff (particularly someone new to Scotch) the smokiness can be overpowering(although I LOVE the nose)....once they've tasted it everyone has been mightily impressed. If you like this I highly recommend the GOT House Lannister Lagavulin 9....another AMAZING dram.
Great picks, Roy. They're all in my cabinet within easy reaching distance - as are the Ardbeg 10 and the Caol Ila 12 (for peat) and the Glengoyne and Glenfarclas 15s (for Sherry). Reading through the comments here, I can see just how spoiled we are for choice these days. There are just so many damn good drams available for an everyday "go to" drop! Makes the journey of our whisky experience just as important (and just as much fun) as the destination. Here's to variety and the richness of a thousand palates and tastes! Cheers.
Nice vid, Roy. I can't fault any of your choices. Here's my top five go-to list: 1. Ardbeg 10. This was my intro to Islay whisky and brings back so many good memories that I have to keep a bottle around. 2. Oban 14. I catch a different nuance every time I try it. Just a beautiful chameleon of a whisky. 3. Aberlour A'Bunadh. What's not to love about a cask strength sherry bomb? 4. Glendronach 18 Allardice. My first celebration whisky that stretched the wallet a bit at the time. More good memories. 5. The Peat Monster. A blend, true, but it's got wonderful peat with subtle, sweet undertones. It just tastes great to me.
Yep, I'd happily have any of those in my cabinet! Only one I've not tried is the Deanston but it's on 'the list' ;) My top five readily available and affordable I like to have on hand are: Ledaig 10, Ardbeg 10, Benromach 10, Springbank 10, Arran 14.
For me it's the Cardhu 12. It was the first single malt I tried and it has a place in my heart and my cabinet. It's also my go-to whisky for friends who say they don't like whisky. They always like it.
Greetings from the Malt wasteland that is Thailand and fellow Clynelish devotee. It's not easy to find and around double the price of the UK but Laga 16 is the only one of your 'widely available' top 5 availble here. Honourable mention to Arran 10 also available if you know where to look. I may or may not be guilty of finding a few extra bottles in my suitcase on the return journeys.
Top 5 cheap go to whiskies 1. Old Pulteney 12 ($38) 2. Laphroaig 10 ($35) 3. Wyoming Whiskey ($35) 4. Slaine Triple Cask Irish ($25) 5. Wild Turkey 101 ($20) Honorable Mention: Glenfarclas 12 ($45). Thanks for the video! My thoughts on your list: I need to try that Clynlish 14 still. I prefer the ardbeg and Laphroaig 10 to the lag 8. The Deanston 12 was tasty, but never really spoke to my soul (I think heavy barley sugar notes are not really my cup of tea). I also really like the Lag 16, but I prefer wild and charismatic whiskies to balanced ones. I also thing the Lag 16 is a little pricey at $85 here.
When I tasted that Bunnahabain 12 with that same label coloration as yours, I had to get a case of this.... There is really no other flavor profile that I have found that is this unique, yet truly enjoyable. Different yet great..
I have never seen the Deanston or Clynelish in australia I will be keeping a keen eye out. I tried the Ledaig 10 after hearing you speak about it and now its one of my top 5 favourites to go to. Here's my top 5: 1. Nikka yoichi 2. Ledaig 10 3. Uigeadail 4. Lagavulin 16 5. Laphroaig 10
I recently got the Lagavulin 16yo, as a gift. I had not tried it before. The bottle disappeared, and had to run out and get another. I always have Redbreast 12yo, Macallan 12yo, Highland Park 12yo, Johnny Walker Green and Black and Jameson. Cheers Roy!
Roy, I'd agree on some of your recommendations...1. Lagavulin 16, 3. Ledaig 10, 4. Talisker 10 , 5. Clynelish 14, ....but I'd always have 2. Aberlour 16 in there. Looking forward to the next list....Mortlach 16 F&F perhaps?
Aberlour 16 is a heartbreak whisky for me, can you imagine how good that would be at a decent ABV? In the UK it's at 40% and every time I feel robbed. I guess I could throw in a splash of A'bunadh and still have a nice single malt. Cheers Craig.
Agreed ...a higher ABV would be nice, but perhaps the 40% is what helps make it such an easy go to dram...I just find it delicious and goes down all too easily. A'bunadh was actually my first ever foray into Aberlour
Lagavulin 16 was the whisky that made me interested in Scotch world, Lagavulin 8 is my all favorite whisky over 100 Scotch I’ve had. Love it’s fruity peaty notes.
Man I am so with you here! 1) Lagavulin 12 2) Springbank 12 3) Clynelish 14 4) Kilkerran 12 5) Bunnahabhain 12 Haven’t had a chance to try the Deanston 12 yet. But I know what I’m buying tonight.
I love that you included two Lagavulins, the 8 and 16. What amazes me about Lagavulin is the balance. Most peated whiskys are too strong, hitting you over the head with smoke. Lagavulins are strong, but balanced. Nice list.
Great review Roy. I love your enthusiasm. Keep up the good work. My top 5 for the not so expensive whiskies at the moment: spring bank 10, ardbeg 10, lagavulin 16, laphroaig quarter Cask and glenmorangie quinta ruban. Cheers mate.
My five 1. Oban 14 (like your lagavulin 16, it brings me back to what I started with). 2. Clynelish 14 3. Compass box spice tree 4. Highland park 12 5. Macallan (whatever current edition is avail, now the #4). Amazing.
Hi Roy, I absolutely love Clynelish 14! I do have a question. What do you recommend to a Clynelish fan outside of the 14? I noticed there isn't much from their distillery available. Thanks!
As whisky changes and changes so much (radically even, some would argue) I was glad to see you added ‘2018’ in the title. I’d say that by 2019 and definitely by 2020 that list my change. I know mine will. If I am to dismiss all those that aren’t available anymore - despite having a few spare bottles (like AnCnoc 16 or Old Pulteney 17) and consider only those bottles I always have open regardless of time of year: Bunnahabhain 12 Glenfarclas 15
My first Peated Scotch was the Lagavulin 16. Love at first breath! I did not want to exhale. This is my all time favorite to which all others are judged. Thank you to the Scotch 4 Dummies for it and Thanks to the Scotch Test Dummies and you for the Lagavulin 12 year old 2017 Cask Strength recommendation. :0)
Hey Roy, I have just bought a trio of Deanston whiskies, those being: Virgin Oak (which I've already had, and LOVED), Deanston 12 and Deanston 10 Bordeaux Cask (which was on offer at an impossible to resist price at 32 EUR). Knowing how you love Deanston, and how much the entry range Virgin Oak impressed me, I look forward to trying the other two.
I’ll make a prediction. You’ll love the bold, bright hooks and flavours of the 10 & the VO and the 12 will leave you contemplative. Halfway down you’ll be torn. By the end of the bottles you’ll be replacing the 12. Probably immediately. Really hope you enjoy, and that is a good price!
I really enjoyed this video and find it very helpful. I am just starting my whisky collection and my first bottle is lagavoulin 16, I love it so much! I am looking forward to adding the other bottles you've mentioned!
Wonderful video, I have yet to find a Clynlish 14, but have been hunting for it. Mine 1-Glendronach 12, 2-Deanston 12 (You converted me) 3-Bunnahabhain 12, 4-Balvenie 12 Doublewood (Its the one that got me into Scotch from Irish). Number 5 is mood influenced. I am not a peat guy, but I appreciate the Laga 16, Springbank 10, and recently Glen Scotia 15 a lot). I too give honorable mention to the Op 17. I love this stuff. This is why I really enjoy scotch as opposed to Bourban, The diversity in flavors is truly amazing. They can all touch your soul in different ways and when shared with a friend....the best.
It was a available and then Ralfy gave it such a high mark. It sold out in week or 2 after the airing of his video. Ralfy has that kind of power, and reaches across the pond.
I really appreciate your advices. We´ve just tried a lagavulin 16 because of you! hahaha. I'm beginner but I believe is one of the most different and marvelous flavours I ever taste. Thanks!
Great video to go back to and calibrate the common malt experience Roy... can’t argue with any of your choices for top five and honorable mentions. Thanks
Great list Roy, I wish there were more Deanston options here in Ontario. My top 5 affordable and available are. 1)Ardbeg 10. 2) Highland Park 12. 3) Lagavulin 16 4) Glendronach 12 5) Old Pulteney 12.
Thanks for a great selection and for giving us your reasoning behind all the selections. I love these videos & I can’t imagine how difficult it must’ve been for you to select just 5! Personally, my top 5 go-back-to whiskies would be: (1) Lagavulin 8 (absolutely agree 100% with everything you said about this beauty); (2) Old Pulteney 12 (I get just enough echo of the beloved 17 & 21 in the baby brother so that I keep going back to the 12); (3) Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban (I’m a sucker for Port finished whisky and, imo, glenmorangie’s done a great job with this one. Also super affordable & easy to find anywhere); (4) Redbreast 12 Cask Strength (affordable, beautiful and oh so easy to drink. Always my go-to Irish dram); (5) Angel’s Envy Port Finished Bourbon (again, I’m a sucker for Port finishing. This beautiful whiskey gives me the best of bourbon notes with an interesting kiss of port. Also cheap & available everywhere). Thanks again for all the great videos you put out! If you get a chance, I’d love to get your recommendation on whether I should try the Deanston 12 or 14yo organic as my first Deanston? After hearing you & a few others extol the virtues of Deanston, I’ve been meaning to try it asap. Both the 12 & 14 are fairly similarly priced (only about $20 difference) so I’d love to get your thoughts on which you think I should try first
The organic should be a 15yo but there was a"hiccup" with the first batch and it was rendered 14yo. It's a very good dram, really. But if you can find the newly packaged 12yo - that's the one to go for (as featured here) and it's great. Would love to get your feedback on it.
Great video Roy. I was convinced we would have the same 5 drams. But not quite and only because of 1 factor - availability here. As the market currently stands; Clynelish 14 📍 Lagavulin 16 📍 Deanston 12 📍 Lagavulin 8📍 and the Springbank 10 ❌ The Kilkerran 12 replaces the SB10 if I can walk into a shop and just pick one up, but they are a little more allocated than that at times. I would consider it readily available but wiser if I buy a replacement (if I can) at the same time.
I had Springbank 10 in my hands half a dozen times. It's just sooo good. In the end I was a little petulant with it because twice in the last year we've been unable to buy it locally due to shortages in the supply chain. I know Springbank are not the biggest, but it's gotten ridiculous.
@@Aqvavitae so we both had the same issue on the Campbeltown just at other ends of the spectrum. If getting alcohol into this country wasnt such a palava I would suggest a swap. You send me Kilkerrans I send you Springer 10s
I've been watching all the end of 2018 reviews. Started with Ralfy, then Mark's whisky ramblings, liquor hound and now yours. All good, although I have not yet had a chance to check out whisky Wednesday or Horst Luening. All great quality reviews. Keep um coming in 2019! Merry Christmas and happy new year!
I started my whisky journey with Highland Park 12 VH knowing I really wanted to try Lagavulin 16, I have a bottle waiting for the anniversary to open it. Really looking forward to the Lagavulin. Interested to try some Japanese whiskys as well, the Japanese Harmony is on the list.
I always keep tomatin 14yr Portwood, Glenmorangie Lasanta, Lagavulin 16 and glenfiddich 14yr bourbon barrel reserve on hand. Gives a great change of very affordable whiskies to match any scotch-mood.
Lagavulin 16 is something that will always be in my collection. It was the first bottle ever that I replaced before the open one was empty. The others I would always like to have are Glenfarclas 105 (very tasty and if watered down a bit explodes with flavour), Clynelish 14, Deanston 12 (thanks for the recommendation Roy) and something from Talisker (*Storm or 10). Sláinte Roy!
Good calls Markus and a lot of folks love their Talisker, while I've grown to like it - it's never been a favourite. (Yet!) So glad you're enjoying Deanston and Clynelish, 105 is a good shout too. I think you'd also enjoy some glengoyne cask strength. Cheers Markus!
Lagavulin 16 - £10-15 more now as now £60-65 Oct 2021. To be honest I’m just trying what we’re recommendations several years ago - Deanston 12, Clynelish, Lagavulin 16! A whisky journey enhanced by WhiskyTube highlighting so many great whiskies.
Heh....Lag16 was part of my journey. A detour, actually. After decades of blissful ignorance when I bascially drank only Glenfiddich 12, I stumbled across Highland Park Einar as a travel special (after having been to the Orkneys). It had a light smokey finish that I really liked. Unfortunately, none of the readily available core HP offerings provided that 'lilting hint of peat smoke' that I sought. I knew from my meetings with Laphroaig and Ardbeg that they were off my list. I then heard that peat flavoring is the first to go. It tames relatively quickly. So, I figured that an older (and much more expensive) Islay would have a more 'tamed' peat flavor. I put down the $100 US for a bottle of Lag16. It was true; it was tamed. Compared to Laphroaig and Ardbeg, at least. But, the peat flavor still had that...lapsang tsuchong creosote flavor that alienates me. Lag16 just wrapped it up with other stuff that it was muffled. Then I found Benromach. I had to buy the expensive 15 year before I got my hands on the 10, but I had come home. This was my sought after flavor profile. When I got the 10, I confirmed that it was a more robust and brash expression of the more 'cultured' 15. The Lag16 still holds a place of honor in my selection and it is offered around as 'what Nick Offerman drinks'. It will not go to waste, as I will drink it. And, it is still the elder in my cabinet. That's gotta count for something.
I like how most distilleries on anniversaries release some 200 dollar older whiskey but lagavulin always goes younger and affordable but still just as delicious.
2023, just bought one of my favourites, Clynelish 14,surfed some reviews and whilst doing that spotted this vid. Scary stuff, the first four are sitting on my cabinet here behind me. The fifth (Laga 16) is a firm fave also but in 2023 in Australia it’s moved from affordable to starting to hurt. If I had to name a fifth, purely based on price ( and for sentimental reasons) it would be Johnny Green, on taste Cotswolds Founders Choice or Arran, pretty much any expression.
Your go to 5 is a perfect balance of great Scotch whiskies. My favorite is the Clynelish 14, but sometimes I lean toward the Isle of Arran 14. My go to is: Cardhu 12, Macallan 12, Old Pultney 12, Bunnahabain 12, and finally Glen Garioch 12. The search for new whiskies to try is an adventure that can bring a life time of happiness. Slainte to a life well lived full of great drams!
Great share, thank you! 👍 My top 5 are: 5. Laphroaig 10 Cask Strength 4. Glen Moray 12 3. Oban 14 2. Ben Nevis (Most any single Cask Indy over 15 YO) 1. Glen Scotia 10 (from disco cow days.)... Don't know how long my stash will hold out...Will probably replace with current 15 YO. Honorable Mentions: Benromach 10, Bruichladdich -Laddie 10, Ardmore (most anything) and Talisker 10.
Glen Scotia are doing great things but they're long term character has yet to settle I think, stock up on those "disco cows" if you love em. And a good list. Laphroaig 10CS is distillery only in the UK.
@@Aqvavitae Thanks for taking a look at my list! I'll consider myself lucky on the 10-year Cask strength Laphroaig. Really is difficult to funnel it down to 5. 😉🥃
Roy, this was another great high quality video as usual ! While it is really hard to pick just 5 for this list, based on value, here are my top 5. Not surprisingly for me personally, it is an all Islay list: 1. Ardbeg Uigeadail, 2. Lagavulin 16 , 3. Ardbeg 10, 4. Laphroaig 10, 5. Bunnahabhain 12 . I know what you mean about a special whisky and a personal connection to it like you mentioned with the Lagavulin 16. For me, it is the Laphroaig 10 and it will always have a special meaning for me. About 30 years ago, I tried Laphroaig 10 for the first time, my first Islay peated Whisky, and I have consumed many bottles of it over the years. Therefore, it will always have a preferred place on my bar. Sláinte !
You are a true lover of the magical Isla Duane, good shouts all! And you're probably one of the most experienced and well-versed at Laphroaig through the years. Slàinte right back!
As an American, my list might be a bit different, all relatively easy to obtain in the US: Lagavulin 14 (for bourbon and scotch drinkers) Colonel EH Taylor Small Batch Laphroaig Lore Nikka from the Barrel (need to represent Japan) Heaven Hill Bottled in Bond (knocked Old Ezra 7 off the list)
What a wonderful, thoughtful and reasonable Top 5 List you have. Makes one wonder why they would feel the need to spend more when those fine whiskies are so affordable and available. A very notable mention you made of Ledaig 10 year old too! Would love to hear your "Top 5 " thoughts on blended scotch whiskies and bourbons as well.
Blended is a great idea, although I don't sip a lot of blends if I'm honest. I am starting to get familiar with some bourbons but I'm still in kindergarden. Thank you Spirited!
Those are all great choices Roy! I was a bit surprised at not even an honorable mention for the Glendronach 12, with your list though I guess it is not surprising on second thought because the closest you get to sherried whisky is Lagavulin 16. Well, each to their own. Since everyone else is doing a top 5 list of absolute must haves, here goes (in no order because I must have them all)... 1. Glendronach 12 - 2. Clynelish 14 - 3. Lagavulin 16 - 4. JW Green Label (first love nostalgia going on here) - 5. Ledaig 10. I look forward to your next video, Cheers! 🥃
You know, I think GlenDronach 12 really deserves to be in a crowd-sourced top 5, but for me it was easy to choose other things over the soft sherried style drams - Mac, Glengoyne, Glenfarclas, GlenDronach, - all of them. I fully expect to find myself back there one day, but right now they're occasional pleasures, not my go to's.
Thanks Roy for a great video! I love your measured and clear comments, I also love your choices and will now seek out the Clynelish on your recommendation!
I’m in Australia Roy, i loved your comments about Lagavulin 16. It was a ‘beginning’ for me too. I tried Legaig after watching your videos. Really enjoyed it! Now I have to find the Clynelish. It is not so common here. Cheers!
Hi Roy, Just wanted to follow up on my Clynelish 14 story. Following the discussion above with you I went looking. Found it, bought it, loved it! Interestingly, it took a view drams to love it. Not sure what else I’d drunk before it the first time but I was unimpressed. A few days later and then a few days after that I tried some more. A month later as I got towards finishing the bottle, I can’t wait to replace it. Roy thanks again for your style and advice. Very much appreciated! 😉🥃
Great video Roy. Its good to know i have 3 out of the 5 choices and your honourable mentions as well. I havent tried the Deanston 12 and havent seen it in Canada. How do you feel about theDeanston virgin oak? Thinking of trying it . Have you?? Also curious of what you think of the Lagavulin Distillers Edition as well. Slainte
Lagavulin DE is good but I prefer the standard. The Deanston VO is good, but it's a different animal, it's a sweeter whisky with lots of bourbon-esque notes. Still, I do enjoy it and it's very good value.
Nicely done. I have yet to try any Kilkerran and Lag 8. My Top 5 would be. 5. Talisker 10, 4. Deanston 12, 3. Dronach 12, 2, Clynelish 14, and totally agree with Lag 16 as number 1.
Roy, I really enjoy your review content. The bit you do next to the recycling container is brilliant. I wish you had more like that! The live events are tough to watch due to the duration. More recorded bits!
I hear you - the lives are there for the event of being "live" the duration is the duration, but I can knock them out with some prep and a tidy up afterward. 5 hours max all told. The pre-recorded stuff takes a day for a quick one and longer for something more project-focused. Recycled I can do in a day, but honestly - can you imagine my liver if I put out a monthly recycled? Thanks my friend.
@@Aqvavitae Maybe you could consier cutting up intersting bits from your live streams and upload them as short videos. I've seen quite a few people that do that (although not whisky-related channels).
Roy, very interesting video! I'm fairly new to scotch so still trying various expressions and have many at home that I have yet to taste. However at this point in time I favor the following. Lagavulin 16, Caol Ila 12, Deanston 12, Arran 14 and Clynelish 14 (I also have a 15 special bottling as well that I haven't tried yet). Haven't tried the Bunnahabhain 12 yet but I have it. Its nice to know that I have similar tastes to you which will help in future selections. Thanks LeRoy....
Very well thought out list and and your reasoning was presented very articulately. I was struck by the wording that you used to describe your feelings about the number one on your list, Lagavulin 16 yo, which would also be in my top five, always on hand, list. In my mind, that wording would also apply to Laphroaig 10 yo, which is also a sort of touchstone for me since my first taste of it 30 + years ago.
OK so the 1 thumbs down on this video has me wondering who got lost and stumbled into this? Great video I was expecting as this was a top 5 go to to see Glennfiddich 12 somewhere even if not on the list. My top 5 at this time in no order. Aberlour A'bunadh, got to have 1 sherry bomb. Aultmore 12. Bunnahabhain 12. Clynelish 14 or Compass Box the Spice Tree, these are tied and cant make up my mind. Deanston 12. Honorable mentions: Craigellachie 13, Glengoyne 12, Old Pulteney 12. Cheers Roy
The more down thumbs I get indicates TH-cam is sharing my video outside of my usual circles, I'll read it as a good sign. Opinion pieces like this should also attract quite a few who don't find their favourites and it disgruntles them. Glad you liked it though DPW! Good shouts on your list too - I have guilt about not having a Glengoyne in there, given how pivotal a whisky it was for me.
Of course it's a great list, although I just couldn't put both Lag on a list that short even though the 16 would be there. For me, Talisker was a gateway drug for me and I would always have it on my list. I need Highland Park - I can smell the bees, hear the malt, and taste the wind on it. Glenmo is probably not far behind. I'd have a tough time with which one is last - Balvenie Double Wood, that Clynelish, or of late AnCnoc is really hitting it out of the park.
Great video! Everyone will have a different list. Here's mine: 1) Talisker 10 - This was the first whisky that opened my eyes to the concept of depth of flavor and character. Everybody has 'that' whisky. This is mine. 2) Wild Turkey 101 8-Year ( I live in Japan) - It's cheap, available, and delicious. 3) Springbank 10 - It's Springbank 10. 4) Glenfarclas 105 - I'm not rich, and that's a lot of flavor. I'll take it. 5) Tobermory 10 - Fruit, fruit, fruit!!! - It's also a bit briny. It replaces Old Pulteney for me. Personal tastes may vary. Also, I live in Japan, and there are quite a few whiskies that I can't get. But I could live the rest of my life with just those five whiskies (though I'm grateful that I don't have to).
Great list Roy. Always use your recommendations to guide my growth further into scotch. As a Bourbon drinker who has been moving into scotch this is my list : Bookers, Pikesville Rye, Springbank 12 CS, Elijah Craig, Bunnahabhain 12. Honorable mention to Glenmorangie 18.
Great list, you're drinking like a lord. The Springbank CS is great, usually. But here it's very often difficult to get and disappears fast. Thanks VegasArt!
Another great vid mate, most of those choices I thoroughly concur with (except the Clynelish 14, just couldn't get a handle on that at all). Prefer the Lag 16 to the 8, though heard great things about the 12. Grabbed a bottle of Bunna 12 again the other month. First time in about three years since I had it, and immediately remembered why I love it, it really should be a mainstay on everyone's shelf. Was annoyed the day after I bought it though (£33 Sainsbury's), as missed an unbelievable deal at Morrison's where they were getting rid of the stock of the 12's for £20 a bottle! Still gutted about missing out on that. They replaced it with the Stiùireadair. Is that any good, is it worth a purchase? Really liked the Kilkerran 12 too, and agree about that salty buttery note through it, just adds depth to a fairly light but very tasty dram. Ashamed to say I haven't tried the Deanston 12 or Ledaig 10 yet, they look like being some of my Christmas purchases I reckon! :)
Laphroaig 10 I thought would get mentioned more than it has. In terms of it's ambassador status it should score highly, I find in line ups I choose over it often. Still, it's very close to my heart. Cheers B guns!
There's a core few expressions Vin that I like to have to help newbies (new meat!) when they arrive at Casa Aqvavitae, under the guise of a "dinner" or "coffee" invite - only to get clubbed by me trying to indoctrinate them into whisky!
Hi Roy. Based on your recommendation a bottle of Clynelish 14 arrived this afternoon. I'm waiting for it to warm up before I give it a try. I'll let you know how it goes : )
Very good Roy. It was Lagavulin 16 YO that made me a serious malt head. I have not tried Deanston 12 - yet. Here's my 5 with the caveat that I don't know exactly what you mean by 'affordable'. 5. Benromach 10 YO 4. Springbank 15 YO 3. Clynelsih 14 YO 2. Killkerran 12 YO 1. Ardbeg 10 YO Cheers.
Great work and great list Chris. Affordable was in around £50 in the UK, but I appreciate that varies. Availablility was more important, which killed off the Springbanks this time and that Benromach is a great bottle right now. Tried the 57% 100º proof version? Epic.
No1 for me ... Talisker 10 year old ... the maritime, sea spray and elemental smoke of that Whisky coupled with it's sweet chilli bite - makes it utterly unique every time I drink it. There is simply no other Whisky quite like Tally 10. It is for me a salt water soaked leather boot to the palate and a finish like a torn sail snapping in the wind. I utterly concur with R.L Stevenson .... it's just a grand thing! HOLD FAST!
I love how you argue why these are your top five. Another great video, Roy! Here are my five:
Bunna 12
Ardbeg 10
Springbank CS 12 (any batch)
OP17
Glendronach 18
The last two are expensive but I have stocked up, so they had to be included.
Kilkerran 12 could have been on the list. I already have a replacement bottle for my current open bottle. I feel that Deanston 12 can be on my list in the future since I love my first bottle that I opened recently.
Awesome Rolf - except there's no way I can include the Springbank 12 CS - as much as I love it it's not an available whisky, not here.
Superb video quality and excellent recommendations Roy, Thank you. Any chance we can have another video like this with your updated top 5's ?? Would be interesting to see what you will recommend in 2022 with soo many good options out there. :)
great video :) of all the whiskytube reviewers, i come back to your videos time and again :p (perhaps i'm biased, being scottish too :p i revisit ralfy's videos just as often). sharing your informed and experienced voice to help guide those of us with more limited budgets is greatly appreciated :)
on a side note - i was intrigued at the prospect of a futurama-themed whisky, due to one of the "chapter names" in the timeline being "calculon 12 year old" :p seems that there was an "auto-transcribe" failure to interpret "kilkerran 12 year old" correctly >_<
keep up the good work :)
Great video as always!
I have a no-repurchase rule that helps me try more stuff, but if I had to pick 5 basics I'd love to keep around...
-Bunnahabhain 12
-Bruichladdich Classic Laddie
-Arran 14
-Benromach 10
-Springbank 10
Those have all served me extremely well in the past.
Benromach 10 really deserves to be in anyone's cabinet. Thanks Adam.
This video just came up on my feed, interesting to watch from four years ago. I'm wondering what the list would be now. Kilkerran is like rocking horse $#!+ to get hold of and that Laga 16 is a no no for many of us enthusiasts. What's your list like in 2022?? All the best chap 👍
Fantastic to watch as always Roy. Very good list. Right then.
1 Old Pulteney 12
2 Ardbeg 10
3 Glendronach 12
4 Bunnahabhain 12
5 Kilkerran 12
In no particular order, they seem to be in the cupboard all the time. All £40 or less. Great value for money drams.
We're pretty closely aligned Paul. Good ones all!
Nice list! Sipping a Benromach 10 while watching. One of those which I always have available. Do you find that the Lagavulin 16 has been stable in quality over the last 10 years? I know it since 4 years and I started with an 0.2L bottle which impressed me a bit more than all the 0.7 bottles a had later. Still awsome but the small bottle was better. More intense peat aroma, which was still present in the morning...
Hi Roy, I totally agree with you on the Clynelish 14 as a go to. The few times I ran into a Diageo rep at a whisky show/festival I told them that Clynelish 14 is their best whisky product in their portfolio, and that maybe they should consider offer more whisky in such a presentation (46%). Too bad, their main consumer group is the mainstream whisky buyer and not the malthead.
My top 5 is random order:
- Inchmurrin 12
- Clynelish 14
- Royal Lochnagar 12
- Bunnahabhain 12
- Glen Garioch 12
When my son was born, i enjoyed a little dram of lagavulin 16 - ever since that Day, it has been my favorit whisky. Not the best whisky I have ever tastet but still my favorit.
So good to have you back from summervacation Roy
Thanks Kasper - good to have you joining in again and it's great to be back. Great story on the Lagavulin - and my very words, not the best whisky, but *that* whisky. Cheers to you and your son!
An admirable list to be sure. The top two on my personal list of available and reasonably priced would be easy. Hadn't really thought of a top 5 but here goes. 5. Assuming I can always source it, Compass Box Peat Monster, 4. Clynelish 14, 3. Powers John Lane, 2. Lagavulin 16, 1. Talisker 18
Just received my 2 bottles of the Talisker 8 Cask Strength Special Release. Sampled it last night and loved it. Expected it to be akin the the Cadenhead Talisker cask strength releases back in the day, but it was quite dissimilar. Creamy, some of that tradition talisker pepper and spice, the brine mostly covered up by the proof. Add a little water and it becomes a luscious cream and introduces some vanilla. A taste I haven't found often in Talisker.
I'm enjoying these videos. Straight forward and well presented: no people skylarking or showing off for effect. Well done.
Damn that description of the Kilkerran bottle was stellar Roy! Beautiful! I wanted to bolt to the liquid store!
Good luck trying to get a bottle of Kilkerran 12 years old for around £40 as he suggests. You can double that figure!
Lagavulin, absolutely but I would
Go with the 16, using your criteria I’d have to go with Laga 16/Laphroaig 10 CS/Balvenie 15/Glenfarclas 25/Highland Park 18... at least without getting too expensive... always enjoy your videos! Cheers. ~Mike
Must have affordable staples in the cabinet:
1. Bunna 12
2. Glendronach 12
3. Laphroaig QC
4. Deanston 12
5. Glenfarclas 105
Very interesting video (as always).
Here's my 5 go to whiskies:
1. Method and Madness Pot Still
2. Compass Box Spice Tree
3. Linkwood 12
4. Deanston 12
5. Benromach 12
Close to these: Redbreast 12, Glenlivet 18, Hakushu DR, Clynelish 14
The whisky that has had a similar impact on me is the Dalwhinnie 15 year old. I'm fairly new on my "whisky journey" took me from something I'd drink from time to time because holding a whisky always looks good that was until I had this and it Changed my entire perception of whisky. But it was bought at random as I was in the whisky library in Tokyo and i got this because my wife liked the name of it and it was a transformative moment for me and really opened my eyes. I now find myself keen to try as much as I can and really broaden my horizons and videos like yours are really allowing me to do that.
I had the 8y0 CS KilKerran at a tasting a few months ago -- was by far the favorite of everyone there. Uniquely delicious. Lag 8yo far cheaper than the 16yo standard where I'm at and I'd say I like it more. One of my favs up there with Ardbeg 10yo. The Old Pultney 17yo is excellent. My top 5:
1. Ardbeg 10/and or Uigeadail
2. Talisker 10/and or DE
3. Abelour A'Bunadh
4. Lagavulin 8yo
5. Johnnie Walker Green
Good list of mentions - and JW Green, a great malt often overlooked! Thanks Billy.
Lagavulin 16...MY FAVORITE, also. When someone I know first takes a whiff (particularly someone new to Scotch) the smokiness can be overpowering(although I LOVE the nose)....once they've tasted it everyone has been mightily impressed. If you like this I highly recommend the GOT House Lannister Lagavulin 9....another AMAZING dram.
Great picks, Roy. They're all in my cabinet within easy reaching distance - as are the Ardbeg 10 and the Caol Ila 12 (for peat) and the Glengoyne and Glenfarclas 15s (for Sherry). Reading through the comments here, I can see just how spoiled we are for choice these days. There are just so many damn good drams available for an everyday "go to" drop! Makes the journey of our whisky experience just as important (and just as much fun) as the destination. Here's to variety and the richness of a thousand palates and tastes! Cheers.
Amen Russell. Amen! And good shouts on your list too. Caol Ila 12 especially was in there for me. Love it!
Nice vid, Roy. I can't fault any of your choices. Here's my top five go-to list:
1. Ardbeg 10. This was my intro to Islay whisky and brings back so many good memories that I have to keep a bottle around.
2. Oban 14. I catch a different nuance every time I try it. Just a beautiful chameleon of a whisky.
3. Aberlour A'Bunadh. What's not to love about a cask strength sherry bomb?
4. Glendronach 18 Allardice. My first celebration whisky that stretched the wallet a bit at the time. More good memories.
5. The Peat Monster. A blend, true, but it's got wonderful peat with subtle, sweet undertones. It just tastes great to me.
Charlie, that Oban 14 is an absolute peach of a shout out and one that's too easily forgotten. America gets too much Oban, it's a cracking whisky.
Yep, I'd happily have any of those in my cabinet! Only one I've not tried is the Deanston but it's on 'the list' ;) My top five readily available and affordable I like to have on hand are: Ledaig 10, Ardbeg 10, Benromach 10, Springbank 10, Arran 14.
Great list (and great for value too) Rian, thanks for watching.
For me it's the Cardhu 12. It was the first single malt I tried and it has a place in my heart and my cabinet. It's also my go-to whisky for friends who say they don't like whisky. They always like it.
Good work on the sharing it! Your "epiphany" whisky always has a place in your heart. Thanks Rodrigo.
Greetings from the Malt wasteland that is Thailand and fellow Clynelish devotee. It's not easy to find and around double the price of the UK but Laga 16 is the only one of your 'widely available' top 5 availble here. Honourable mention to Arran 10 also available if you know where to look. I may or may not be guilty of finding a few extra bottles in my suitcase on the return journeys.
Top 5 cheap go to whiskies
1. Old Pulteney 12 ($38)
2. Laphroaig 10 ($35)
3. Wyoming Whiskey ($35)
4. Slaine Triple Cask Irish ($25)
5. Wild Turkey 101 ($20)
Honorable Mention: Glenfarclas 12 ($45).
Thanks for the video! My thoughts on your list:
I need to try that Clynlish 14 still. I prefer the ardbeg and Laphroaig 10 to the lag 8. The Deanston 12 was tasty, but never really spoke to my soul (I think heavy barley sugar notes are not really my cup of tea). I also really like the Lag 16, but I prefer wild and charismatic whiskies to balanced ones. I also thing the Lag 16 is a little pricey at $85 here.
When I tasted that Bunnahabain 12 with that same label coloration as yours, I had to get a case of this.... There is really no other flavor profile that I have found that is this unique, yet truly enjoyable. Different yet great..
I have never seen the Deanston or Clynelish in australia I will be keeping a keen eye out. I tried the Ledaig 10 after hearing you speak about it and now its one of my top 5 favourites to go to. Here's my top 5:
1. Nikka yoichi
2. Ledaig 10
3. Uigeadail
4. Lagavulin 16
5. Laphroaig 10
I recently got the Lagavulin 16yo, as a gift. I had not tried it before. The bottle disappeared, and had to run out and get another. I always have Redbreast 12yo, Macallan 12yo, Highland Park 12yo, Johnny Walker Green and Black and Jameson. Cheers Roy!
You're onto a good thing with all of those, the Redbreast is a favourite here!
May I suggest the 12CS. It takes the 12 to another level!
Highland Park 12, the Old , or the Viking bottle ?.
Roy, I'd agree on some of your recommendations...1. Lagavulin 16, 3. Ledaig 10, 4. Talisker 10 , 5. Clynelish 14, ....but I'd always have 2. Aberlour 16 in there. Looking forward to the next list....Mortlach 16 F&F perhaps?
Aberlour 16 is a heartbreak whisky for me, can you imagine how good that would be at a decent ABV? In the UK it's at 40% and every time I feel robbed. I guess I could throw in a splash of A'bunadh and still have a nice single malt. Cheers Craig.
Agreed ...a higher ABV would be nice, but perhaps the 40% is what helps make it such an easy go to dram...I just find it delicious and goes down all too easily. A'bunadh was actually my first ever foray into Aberlour
Lagavulin 16 was the whisky that made me interested in Scotch world, Lagavulin 8 is my all favorite whisky over 100 Scotch I’ve had. Love it’s fruity peaty notes.
Nice review Roy.
1. Glenfarclas 15
2. Bunna 12
3. Ardbeg 10
4. Mortlach 15 (G&M)
5. Macallan 12 (sherry)
Oooh - a sherry head then Jez? Only Ardbeg 10 is sherry-free! Cheers my friend!
Man I am so with you here!
1) Lagavulin 12
2) Springbank 12
3) Clynelish 14
4) Kilkerran 12
5) Bunnahabhain 12
Haven’t had a chance to try the Deanston 12 yet. But I know what I’m buying tonight.
Awesome. Let me know how that Deanston experience goes - try to get the latest packaging which I show here.
Oh my, I have all of those whiskies. I've always thought I have a very similar taste to you Roy, this pretty much confirmed it.
I love that you included two Lagavulins, the 8 and 16. What amazes me about Lagavulin is the balance. Most peated whiskys are too strong, hitting you over the head with smoke. Lagavulins are strong, but balanced. Nice list.
As you'll discover I'm in a bit of a Lagavulin sucker phase right now. Loving the stuff. Thanks for watching and commenting!
Love your videos, such credible whisky advice...and a fantastic soundtrack, quality all round!
Wow! thank you Mark, please come back soon!
Great review Roy. I love your enthusiasm. Keep up the good work. My top 5 for the not so expensive whiskies at the moment: spring bank 10, ardbeg 10, lagavulin 16, laphroaig quarter Cask and glenmorangie quinta ruban. Cheers mate.
Thank you for the nice words! Yes, the Springbank 10 was a deliberate omission due to inconsistency in supply. Cracking whisky though.
Top 5
1 Lagavulin 16
2 Highland Park 12
3 Talisker 10
4 Ardbeg 10
5 Cragganmore 12
Not always in that order - depends on the mood!
Mood is crucial and often overlooked. Thanks Howard!
Only had highland park. Was fantastic. Will try your number 1
Thank you all for sharing your lists, it's very valuable
My five
1. Oban 14 (like your lagavulin 16, it brings me back to what I started with).
2. Clynelish 14
3. Compass box spice tree
4. Highland park 12
5. Macallan (whatever current edition is avail, now the #4). Amazing.
Solid list. I'm a sucker for the Spice Tree too.
Hi Roy, I absolutely love Clynelish 14! I do have a question. What do you recommend to a Clynelish fan outside of the 14? I noticed there isn't much from their distillery available. Thanks!
As whisky changes and changes so much (radically even, some would argue) I was glad to see you added ‘2018’ in the title.
I’d say that by 2019 and definitely by 2020 that list my change. I know mine will.
If I am to dismiss all those that aren’t available anymore - despite having a few spare bottles (like AnCnoc 16 or Old Pulteney 17) and consider only those bottles I always have open regardless of time of year:
Bunnahabhain 12
Glenfarclas 15
My first Peated Scotch was the Lagavulin 16. Love at first breath! I did not want to exhale. This is my all time favorite to which all others are judged. Thank you to the Scotch 4 Dummies for it and Thanks to the Scotch Test Dummies and you for the Lagavulin 12 year old 2017 Cask Strength recommendation. :0)
Glad you're enjoying SD Dude!
Hey Roy, I have just bought a trio of Deanston whiskies, those being: Virgin Oak (which I've already had, and LOVED), Deanston 12 and Deanston 10 Bordeaux Cask (which was on offer at an impossible to resist price at 32 EUR).
Knowing how you love Deanston, and how much the entry range Virgin Oak impressed me, I look forward to trying the other two.
I’ll make a prediction. You’ll love the bold, bright hooks and flavours of the 10 & the VO and the 12 will leave you contemplative. Halfway down you’ll be torn. By the end of the bottles you’ll be replacing the 12. Probably immediately.
Really hope you enjoy, and that is a good price!
I really enjoyed this video and find it very helpful. I am just starting my whisky collection and my first bottle is lagavoulin 16, I love it so much! I am looking forward to adding the other bottles you've mentioned!
Great to hear - feedback how they go for you too!
Wonderful video, I have yet to find a Clynlish 14, but have been hunting for it. Mine 1-Glendronach 12, 2-Deanston 12 (You converted me) 3-Bunnahabhain 12, 4-Balvenie 12 Doublewood (Its the one that got me into Scotch from Irish). Number 5 is mood influenced. I am not a peat guy, but I appreciate the Laga 16, Springbank 10, and recently Glen Scotia 15 a lot). I too give honorable mention to the Op 17. I love this stuff. This is why I really enjoy scotch as opposed to Bourban, The diversity in flavors is truly amazing. They can all touch your soul in different ways and when shared with a friend....the best.
Thanks
I can hook you up with the Clynelish 14 sometime old man =) I know where you can get a bottle locally as well.
Glen Scotia is a great shout - I just think that availability isn't great on it yet... you think? thanks Everwind!
That's a saintly gesture Telex!
It was a available and then Ralfy gave it such a high mark. It sold out in week or 2 after the airing of his video. Ralfy has that kind of power, and reaches across the pond.
always nice to hear the views of someone who has a passion for whisky.
The whisky beats it's way out of me. I love it so.
Ooops - thanks Colin!
I just started drinking whisky, coming from Dutch (old) jenever and korenwijn and I recently purchased the Lagavullin 8 and I have to say : I love it!
I really appreciate your advices. We´ve just tried a lagavulin 16 because of you! hahaha. I'm beginner but I believe is one of the most different and marvelous flavours I ever taste. Thanks!
The road ahead is amazing... enjoy 😉
Great video to go back to and calibrate the common malt experience Roy... can’t argue with any of your choices for top five and honorable mentions. Thanks
Great list Roy, I wish there were more Deanston options here in Ontario. My top 5 affordable and available are.
1)Ardbeg 10. 2) Highland Park 12. 3) Lagavulin 16 4) Glendronach 12 5) Old Pulteney 12.
The OP12 should be in there too, but there's so much out there! Good shouts Locknes!
Couldn't agree more on the Clynlish 14 and Lagavulin 16!
Capn' MakeItHappin' thank you Cap! 😊
I spent hours with my first glass of clynelish because of how awe inspiring the experience was
Laguvulin...any particular yr? As I see on some sites different yrs listed..also what of the distiller edition?
I was able to find Clynelish 14 in Portland, ME USA. It was 44$ and it was so damn good! Thank you for the recommendation!
Thanks for a great selection and for giving us your reasoning behind all the selections. I love these videos & I can’t imagine how difficult it must’ve been for you to select just 5! Personally, my top 5 go-back-to whiskies would be: (1) Lagavulin 8 (absolutely agree 100% with everything you said about this beauty); (2) Old Pulteney 12 (I get just enough echo of the beloved 17 & 21 in the baby brother so that I keep going back to the 12); (3) Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban (I’m a sucker for Port finished whisky and, imo, glenmorangie’s done a great job with this one. Also super affordable & easy to find anywhere); (4) Redbreast 12 Cask Strength (affordable, beautiful and oh so easy to drink. Always my go-to Irish dram); (5) Angel’s Envy Port Finished Bourbon (again, I’m a sucker for Port finishing. This beautiful whiskey gives me the best of bourbon notes with an interesting kiss of port. Also cheap & available everywhere).
Thanks again for all the great videos you put out! If you get a chance, I’d love to get your recommendation on whether I should try the Deanston 12 or 14yo organic as my first Deanston? After hearing you & a few others extol the virtues of Deanston, I’ve been meaning to try it asap. Both the 12 & 14 are fairly similarly priced (only about $20 difference) so I’d love to get your thoughts on which you think I should try first
The organic should be a 15yo but there was a"hiccup" with the first batch and it was rendered 14yo. It's a very good dram, really. But if you can find the newly packaged 12yo - that's the one to go for (as featured here) and it's great. Would love to get your feedback on it.
Great video Roy. I was convinced we would have the same 5 drams. But not quite and only because of 1 factor - availability here. As the market currently stands;
Clynelish 14 📍 Lagavulin 16 📍 Deanston 12 📍 Lagavulin 8📍 and the Springbank 10 ❌
The Kilkerran 12 replaces the SB10 if I can walk into a shop and just pick one up, but they are a little more allocated than that at times. I would consider it readily available but wiser if I buy a replacement (if I can) at the same time.
I had Springbank 10 in my hands half a dozen times. It's just sooo good. In the end I was a little petulant with it because twice in the last year we've been unable to buy it locally due to shortages in the supply chain. I know Springbank are not the biggest, but it's gotten ridiculous.
@@Aqvavitae so we both had the same issue on the Campbeltown just at other ends of the spectrum. If getting alcohol into this country wasnt such a palava I would suggest a swap. You send me Kilkerrans I send you Springer 10s
I've been watching all the end of 2018 reviews. Started with Ralfy, then Mark's whisky ramblings, liquor hound and now yours. All good, although I have not yet had a chance to check out whisky Wednesday or Horst Luening. All great quality reviews. Keep um coming in 2019! Merry Christmas and happy new year!
I started my whisky journey with Highland Park 12 VH knowing I really wanted to try Lagavulin 16, I have a bottle waiting for the anniversary to open it. Really looking forward to the Lagavulin. Interested to try some Japanese whiskys as well, the Japanese Harmony is on the list.
I always keep tomatin 14yr Portwood, Glenmorangie Lasanta, Lagavulin 16 and glenfiddich 14yr bourbon barrel reserve on hand. Gives a great change of very affordable whiskies to match any scotch-mood.
That's a neat line up Jonathan, Tomatin a great shout, especially for value. Thank you.
Thanks. This will come in handy for my next whiskey tasting/purchase. Can’t wait.
Share how you go!
Lagavulin 16 is something that will always be in my collection. It was the first bottle ever that I replaced before the open one was empty. The others I would always like to have are Glenfarclas 105 (very tasty and if watered down a bit explodes with flavour), Clynelish 14, Deanston 12 (thanks for the recommendation Roy) and something from Talisker (*Storm or 10).
Sláinte Roy!
Good calls Markus and a lot of folks love their Talisker, while I've grown to like it - it's never been a favourite. (Yet!) So glad you're enjoying Deanston and Clynelish, 105 is a good shout too. I think you'd also enjoy some glengoyne cask strength. Cheers Markus!
Lagavulin 16 - £10-15 more now as now £60-65 Oct 2021.
To be honest I’m just trying what we’re recommendations several years ago - Deanston 12, Clynelish, Lagavulin 16! A whisky journey enhanced by WhiskyTube highlighting so many great whiskies.
Great video Roy! That Lagavulin 8 makes we want to get the 16. I loved it! Deanston 12 and Clynelish are on my list. Slainte!
Excellent - on the Deanston make sure you pick up the newer packaging I share here.
Lagavulin 16 was my first serious scotch and will always be No. 1.
Funny how so many people say that - hence why I declared it our finest ambassador. Thank you Kenneth!
Heh....Lag16 was part of my journey. A detour, actually. After decades of blissful ignorance when I bascially drank only Glenfiddich 12, I stumbled across Highland Park Einar as a travel special (after having been to the Orkneys). It had a light smokey finish that I really liked. Unfortunately, none of the readily available core HP offerings provided that 'lilting hint of peat smoke' that I sought. I knew from my meetings with Laphroaig and Ardbeg that they were off my list. I then heard that peat flavoring is the first to go. It tames relatively quickly. So, I figured that an older (and much more expensive) Islay would have a more 'tamed' peat flavor. I put down the $100 US for a bottle of Lag16. It was true; it was tamed. Compared to Laphroaig and Ardbeg, at least. But, the peat flavor still had that...lapsang tsuchong creosote flavor that alienates me. Lag16 just wrapped it up with other stuff that it was muffled. Then I found Benromach. I had to buy the expensive 15 year before I got my hands on the 10, but I had come home. This was my sought after flavor profile. When I got the 10, I confirmed that it was a more robust and brash expression of the more 'cultured' 15. The Lag16 still holds a place of honor in my selection and it is offered around as 'what Nick Offerman drinks'. It will not go to waste, as I will drink it. And, it is still the elder in my cabinet. That's gotta count for something.
I like how most distilleries on anniversaries release some 200 dollar older whiskey but lagavulin always goes younger and affordable but still just as delicious.
2023, just bought one of my favourites, Clynelish 14,surfed some reviews and whilst doing that spotted this vid. Scary stuff, the first four are sitting on my cabinet here behind me. The fifth (Laga 16) is a firm fave also but in 2023 in Australia it’s moved from affordable to starting to hurt. If I had to name a fifth, purely based on price ( and for sentimental reasons) it would be Johnny Green, on taste Cotswolds Founders Choice or Arran, pretty much any expression.
Your go to 5 is a perfect balance of great Scotch whiskies. My favorite is the Clynelish 14, but sometimes I lean toward the Isle of Arran 14. My go to is: Cardhu 12, Macallan 12, Old Pultney 12, Bunnahabain 12, and finally Glen Garioch 12. The search for new whiskies to try is an adventure that can bring a life time of happiness. Slainte to a life well lived full of great drams!
Ooooh Mose! That Arran is going down well here right now - a damn fine call and one that could have made it in on another day.
glen garioch such a wonderful pear note . one of my faves.
Great share, thank you! 👍
My top 5 are:
5. Laphroaig 10 Cask Strength
4. Glen Moray 12
3. Oban 14
2. Ben Nevis (Most any single Cask Indy over 15 YO)
1. Glen Scotia 10 (from disco cow days.)... Don't know how long my stash will hold out...Will probably replace with current 15 YO.
Honorable Mentions: Benromach 10, Bruichladdich -Laddie 10, Ardmore (most anything) and Talisker 10.
Hi Tim! We were pretty disappointed by the Glen Scotia 15 at a recent blind tasting. New batch. Just sharing. Cheers, Doc
@@macallanfinerare2552 Thanks for the heads-up Doc.
Glen Scotia are doing great things but they're long term character has yet to settle I think, stock up on those "disco cows" if you love em. And a good list. Laphroaig 10CS is distillery only in the UK.
@@Aqvavitae Thanks for taking a look at my list! I'll consider myself lucky on the 10-year Cask strength Laphroaig. Really is difficult to funnel it down to 5. 😉🥃
1. BUNNA 12
2. Redbreast 12
3. Springbank CS
4. Deanston 12
5. Lag 16
Love that Redbreast
Roy, this was another great high quality video as usual ! While it is really hard to pick just 5 for this list, based on value, here are my top 5. Not surprisingly for me personally, it is an all Islay list: 1. Ardbeg Uigeadail, 2. Lagavulin 16 , 3. Ardbeg 10, 4. Laphroaig 10, 5. Bunnahabhain 12 . I know what you mean about a special whisky and a personal connection to it like you mentioned with the Lagavulin 16. For me, it is the Laphroaig 10 and it will always have a special meaning for me. About 30 years ago, I tried Laphroaig 10 for the first time, my first Islay peated Whisky, and I have consumed many bottles of it over the years. Therefore, it will always have a preferred place on my bar. Sláinte !
You are a true lover of the magical Isla Duane, good shouts all! And you're probably one of the most experienced and well-versed at Laphroaig through the years. Slàinte right back!
Thanks for sharing your top 5, I am still new in my whisky journey and have not had any of those, but now I will have to add them to my to do list.
I think you'll not go too far wrong! 😉 Thanks for watching and commenting.
Heard ya humming ;)
5. Springbank 10
4. Clynelish 14
3. Lagavulin 16
2. Balvenie 12 SB
1. Glenfarclas 15
I really struggled omitting Ledaig 10, and Amrut Fusion.
See! It's damn difficult huh? (You're the only one that noticed me placing a wee easter egg in there for another channel - good spot) Thanks Bart!
As an American, my list might be a bit different, all relatively easy to obtain in the US:
Lagavulin 14 (for bourbon and scotch drinkers)
Colonel EH Taylor Small Batch
Laphroaig Lore
Nikka from the Barrel (need to represent Japan)
Heaven Hill Bottled in Bond (knocked Old Ezra 7 off the list)
What a wonderful, thoughtful and reasonable Top 5 List you have. Makes one wonder why they would feel the need to spend more when those fine whiskies are so affordable and available. A very notable mention you made of Ledaig 10 year old too! Would love to hear your "Top 5 " thoughts on blended scotch whiskies and bourbons as well.
Blended is a great idea, although I don't sip a lot of blends if I'm honest. I am starting to get familiar with some bourbons but I'm still in kindergarden. Thank you Spirited!
I can listen to you all day good Sir, Roy. Thanks for your insights
I can read comments like this all day Mark! Thank you!
Those are all great choices Roy! I was a bit surprised at not even an honorable mention for the Glendronach 12, with your list though I guess it is not surprising on second thought because the closest you get to sherried whisky is Lagavulin 16. Well, each to their own. Since everyone else is doing a top 5 list of absolute must haves, here goes (in no order because I must have them all)... 1. Glendronach 12 - 2. Clynelish 14 - 3. Lagavulin 16 - 4. JW Green Label (first love nostalgia going on here) - 5. Ledaig 10. I look forward to your next video, Cheers! 🥃
You know, I think GlenDronach 12 really deserves to be in a crowd-sourced top 5, but for me it was easy to choose other things over the soft sherried style drams - Mac, Glengoyne, Glenfarclas, GlenDronach, - all of them. I fully expect to find myself back there one day, but right now they're occasional pleasures, not my go to's.
Thanks Roy for a great video! I love your measured and clear comments, I also love your choices and will now seek out the Clynelish on your recommendation!
Would love to hear how you go with that Clynelish. Thanks Adrian.
I’m in Australia Roy, i loved your comments about Lagavulin 16. It was a ‘beginning’ for me too. I tried Legaig after watching your videos. Really enjoyed it! Now I have to find the Clynelish. It is not so common here. Cheers!
Hope it's worth the effort Adrian!
Hi Roy, Just wanted to follow up on my Clynelish 14 story. Following the discussion above with you I went looking. Found it, bought it, loved it! Interestingly, it took a view drams to love it. Not sure what else I’d drunk before it the first time but I was unimpressed. A few days later and then a few days after that I tried some more. A month later as I got towards finishing the bottle, I can’t wait to replace it. Roy thanks again for your style and advice. Very much appreciated! 😉🥃
Great video Roy. Its good to know i have 3 out of the 5 choices and your honourable mentions as well. I havent tried the Deanston 12 and havent seen it in Canada. How do you feel about theDeanston virgin oak? Thinking of trying it . Have you?? Also curious of what you think of the Lagavulin Distillers Edition as well. Slainte
Lagavulin DE is good but I prefer the standard. The Deanston VO is good, but it's a different animal, it's a sweeter whisky with lots of bourbon-esque notes. Still, I do enjoy it and it's very good value.
Nicely done. I have yet to try any Kilkerran and Lag 8. My Top 5 would be. 5. Talisker 10, 4. Deanston 12, 3. Dronach 12, 2, Clynelish 14, and totally agree with Lag 16 as number 1.
Couple of good shouts there Rog, thank you. I'll compile a list and pin it.
Roy,
I really enjoy your review content. The bit you do next to the recycling container is brilliant. I wish you had more like that! The live events are tough to watch due to the duration. More recorded bits!
I hear you - the lives are there for the event of being "live" the duration is the duration, but I can knock them out with some prep and a tidy up afterward. 5 hours max all told. The pre-recorded stuff takes a day for a quick one and longer for something more project-focused. Recycled I can do in a day, but honestly - can you imagine my liver if I put out a monthly recycled? Thanks my friend.
@@Aqvavitae Maybe you could consier cutting up intersting bits from your live streams and upload them as short videos. I've seen quite a few people that do that (although not whisky-related channels).
Great video Roy for me Wolfburn Morven, Ardbeg Corryvekan, Caol Ila 18yr unpeated, Glengoyne 10yr, and Glen Grant 12yr.
Roy, very interesting video! I'm fairly new to scotch so still trying various expressions and have many at home that I have yet to taste. However at this point in time I favor the following. Lagavulin 16, Caol Ila 12, Deanston 12, Arran 14 and Clynelish 14 (I also have a 15 special bottling as well that I haven't tried yet). Haven't tried the Bunnahabhain 12 yet but I have it. Its nice to know that I have similar tastes to you which will help in future selections. Thanks LeRoy....
Spot on, it's like reading my own shelf! You're bang on track. Cheers LeRoy.
Very well thought out list and and your reasoning was presented very articulately. I was struck by the wording that you used to describe your feelings about the number one on your list, Lagavulin 16 yo, which would also be in my top five, always on hand, list. In my mind, that wording would also apply to Laphroaig 10 yo, which is also a sort of touchstone for me since my first taste of it 30 + years ago.
OK so the 1 thumbs down on this video has me wondering who got lost and stumbled into this?
Great video I was expecting as this was a top 5 go to to see Glennfiddich 12 somewhere even if not on the list.
My top 5 at this time in no order. Aberlour A'bunadh, got to have 1 sherry bomb. Aultmore 12. Bunnahabhain 12. Clynelish 14 or Compass Box the Spice Tree, these are tied and cant make up my mind. Deanston 12.
Honorable mentions: Craigellachie 13, Glengoyne 12, Old Pulteney 12.
Cheers Roy
The more down thumbs I get indicates TH-cam is sharing my video outside of my usual circles, I'll read it as a good sign. Opinion pieces like this should also attract quite a few who don't find their favourites and it disgruntles them. Glad you liked it though DPW! Good shouts on your list too - I have guilt about not having a Glengoyne in there, given how pivotal a whisky it was for me.
Of course it's a great list, although I just couldn't put both Lag on a list that short even though the 16 would be there. For me, Talisker was a gateway drug for me and I would always have it on my list. I need Highland Park - I can smell the bees, hear the malt, and taste the wind on it. Glenmo is probably not far behind. I'd have a tough time with which one is last - Balvenie Double Wood, that Clynelish, or of late AnCnoc is really hitting it out of the park.
I was waiting for you do to a video like this! Awesome!
If I'm gonna thank anyone, I'll thank Batman!
Great video! Everyone will have a different list. Here's mine:
1) Talisker 10 - This was the first whisky that opened my eyes to the concept of depth of flavor and character. Everybody has 'that' whisky. This is mine.
2) Wild Turkey 101 8-Year ( I live in Japan) - It's cheap, available, and delicious.
3) Springbank 10 - It's Springbank 10.
4) Glenfarclas 105 - I'm not rich, and that's a lot of flavor. I'll take it.
5) Tobermory 10 - Fruit, fruit, fruit!!! - It's also a bit briny. It replaces Old Pulteney for me.
Personal tastes may vary. Also, I live in Japan, and there are quite a few whiskies that I can't get. But I could live the rest of my life with just those five whiskies (though I'm grateful that I don't have to).
Great list Roy. Always use your recommendations to guide my growth further into scotch. As a Bourbon drinker who has been moving into scotch this is my list : Bookers, Pikesville Rye, Springbank 12 CS, Elijah Craig, Bunnahabhain 12. Honorable mention to Glenmorangie 18.
Great list, you're drinking like a lord. The Springbank CS is great, usually. But here it's very often difficult to get and disappears fast.
Thanks VegasArt!
Another great vid mate, most of those choices I thoroughly concur with (except the Clynelish 14, just couldn't get a handle on that at all). Prefer the Lag 16 to the 8, though heard great things about the 12. Grabbed a bottle of Bunna 12 again the other month. First time in about three years since I had it, and immediately remembered why I love it, it really should be a mainstay on everyone's shelf. Was annoyed the day after I bought it though (£33 Sainsbury's), as missed an unbelievable deal at Morrison's where they were getting rid of the stock of the 12's for £20 a bottle! Still gutted about missing out on that. They replaced it with the Stiùireadair. Is that any good, is it worth a purchase? Really liked the Kilkerran 12 too, and agree about that salty buttery note through it, just adds depth to a fairly light but very tasty dram.
Ashamed to say I haven't tried the Deanston 12 or Ledaig 10 yet, they look like being some of my Christmas purchases I reckon! :)
Holly hell so spot on with what I would have picked. I'm gonna have to try Deanston 12 again after seeing this
I think it’s gotten better since. The 18 is lovely too.
Totally agree on the Kilkerran and Clynelish. They are simply sublime.
The gifts that keep on giving! Cheers Olav!
My list:
5) Laphroaig 10
4) Ardbeg 10
3) Lagavulin 16
2) Glenfarclas 15
1) Kilkerran 12
Laphroaig 10 I thought would get mentioned more than it has. In terms of it's ambassador status it should score highly, I find in line ups I choose over it often. Still, it's very close to my heart. Cheers B guns!
Amazing video! Lagavulin 16 got me in to whisky too. You expressed so well the feeling of having it as a solid base, as "home"...
Thank you. It is though, like an anchor to judge the journey by.
Lagavulin 8 is a wonderful recommendation. Your thoughts are just as excellent on TH-cam as they are at the bar. Love the content!
Ha! which bar Justin? - Downtown Austin per chance? Thank you!
It's been such a long time since I had a 'go to'. I'm always buying different bottles. I do miss having something steady in the cabinet though
There's a core few expressions Vin that I like to have to help newbies (new meat!) when they arrive at Casa Aqvavitae, under the guise of a "dinner" or "coffee" invite - only to get clubbed by me trying to indoctrinate them into whisky!
Hi Roy. Based on your recommendation a bottle of Clynelish 14 arrived this afternoon. I'm waiting for it to warm up before I give it a try. I'll let you know how it goes : )
Ardberg 10 yo is a must. So clear & ascetic.
1. Ardbeg 10
2. Lagavulin 16
3. Clynelish 14
4. Arran 14
5. Glendronach 12
+1 Kilkerran 12
What of Arran 18? I can get for cdn100
Yes, I have these and don't plan to go without. Can't wait to see the more exclusive ones.
We're in line Doug!
1- macallan 12
2- laphroaig quarter cask
3- deanston px 10
4- glendronach 12
5- lagavulin 16
Good list - stock up on Deanston 10PX, it was an export only special and not much of it left - if any.
Yea, we’re already out of it 😢
Very good Roy. It was Lagavulin 16 YO that made me a serious malt head. I have not tried Deanston 12 - yet. Here's my 5 with the caveat that I don't know exactly what you mean by 'affordable'.
5. Benromach 10 YO
4. Springbank 15 YO
3. Clynelsih 14 YO
2. Killkerran 12 YO
1. Ardbeg 10 YO
Cheers.
Great work and great list Chris. Affordable was in around £50 in the UK, but I appreciate that varies. Availablility was more important, which killed off the Springbanks this time and that Benromach is a great bottle right now. Tried the 57% 100º proof version? Epic.
Oh yes. Seriously good stuff. Yet to try the 15.