Desert Door Texas Sotol

 

The first segment(Mostly not available on google search)

Occasions, Tips, alternates, cocktails, food pairings, SJ's Rating, Feel

SJ's Rating- Top Shelf

First time trying sotol. I found it an amazing,  smooth & clear spirit from Texas. Tastes a lot like tequila but it is not tequila 😀

Occasion- Casual over Dinner

SJ's Pro tip- Great as a gift, since the bottle looks like a piece of artwork

Alternates- Aha yeto Tequila

Cocktails- Desert door sangria

Feel(Afer drinking)- Amazed

The Second Segment(Technical details that are mostly available on google search)

What is sotol? 

According to their website, Sotol is both the name of the spirit and the plant it is made from. 

Reads the website description "We wild harvest our sotol on ranches across Texas, we don't farm or cultivate any of our sotol stock "

What is wild harvesting? 

Unlike farming, ingredients are collected from crown native land that hasn't been farmed and no trees are cut down in the process. 

Vital stats- Desert Door Texas Sotol(Spirit distilled from Sotol)

Price- $36.99 for 750ml($2.99 for pictured 50 ml sampler)

Age- NAS(No Age Statement)

ABV- 40%

Region/Country- TX,USA

Distillery- Desert door, Driftwood,TX

Awards won- None found but I give it a gold medal

Tasting info- 

Serving glass- Glencairn glass

Serving style- Neat

Appearance- Clear

Aroma- Botanicals, fruity, juniper

Flavor- Sweet but not too much, fruity, spicy

Body- Full

Finish- Warm, lingering

This was an amazing find, I loved sampling it and hope you give it a shot. Cheers 🥃🥃. Enjoy Responsibly! 

Not in the mood to read? Listen to my SingleMaltLives Podast

Old Forester 100 Proof

 

The first segment(Mostly not available on google search)

Occasions, Tips, alternates, cocktails, food pairings, SJ's Rating, Feel

SJ's Rating- Middle Shelf

Not quite the taste profile I was looking for yet still enjoyable. 

Occasion- Casual drinking with friends

SJ's Pro tip- Two cubes of ice mellows down the high ABV and makes it smooth

Alternates- Wild Turkey

Cocktails- Old Fashioned

Feel(After drinking)- Neutral 😐

The Second Segment(Technical details that are mostly available on google search)

Old Forester Distillery has been around since 1870 and wiki says it is the first bourbon sold exclusively in sealed bottles. 

Old Forester 100 proof- The product label reads "This whisky is distilled by us only, and we are responsible for its richness and fine quality. Its elegant flavor is solely due to original fineness developed with care. There is nothing better in the market"

I disagree with the last part, there are much better and cheaper whiskies out there in the market like Old Turkey. 

Vital Stats- Old Forester Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whisky 100 Proof

Price- $22.99 for 750ml

Age- NAS(No Age Statement)

ABV- 50%

Region/Country- Kentucky,USA

Distillery-Old Forester Distilling Company, Louisville, KY

Awards won- Gold, 2019 International Spirits Challenge -Straight bourbon 10 years or younger category

Tasting info-

Serving glass- Whisky Tumbler

Serving style- On the rocks

Appearance- Dark Amber

Aroma-Oak, vanilla, fruits, cornbread

Flavor- Sweet, oak, vanilla, some bitterness, cinnamon spice

Body- Full

Finish- Warm, not so smooth, lingering

I really enjoyed reviewing this bad boi. Hope you will too. Cheers! Enjoy Responsibly

Not in the mood to read? Listen to my SingleMaltLives Podcast instead. 

Sho Chiku Bai Nigori

 

The first segment(Mostly not available on google search)

Occasions, tips, alternates, cocktails, food pairings, SJ's Rating, Feel.

SJ's Rating-  Middle Shelf

Nigori is definitely an acquired taste. My taste buds did not like the taste of this milky nigori to put it in the top spot. It is a decent change of pace from drinking other types of spirits. 

Occasion- Casual, after dinner

SJ's Pro tip-  Don't forget to shake the bottle

Alternates- Jinro Soju

Food Pairing- Spicy korean bbq or as a after dinner dessert

Feel(After drinking)- Neutral, not highly satisfied

The second segment(Technical details that are mostly available on a google search)

Reads the product label "Nigrori is one of the oldest style sakes, which is coarsely filtered and milky white in color. Its full, pleasantly sweet and complex flavor and smooth texture guarantee you a uniquely delicious drinking experience."

I agree for the most part except that it claims for a delicious drinking experience. This depends on what a person likes and some may not like the texture and taste of nigori. 

Frequenly Asked Questions

1. What is sake? 

Sake is an alcoholic beverage of Japanese Origin made by fermenting rice that has been polished to remove bran. 

2. What is nigori? 

Nigori means cloudy and refers to sake that still contains rice solids that have not fermented. 

Vital Stats- Sho Chiku Bai Nigori  Unfiltered Sake Silky Mild

Price-  $5.99 for 750ml

Age- No age statement

ABV- 15%

Country/Region- USA

Distillery- Takara sake USA Inc, Berkley, CA

Awards won- None found

Tasting info-

Serving glass- Wine glass

Serving style- Chilled

Appearance- Milky white

Aroma- Fermented rice

Flavor- Somewhat lactose sweet, rice

Body- Medium

Finish- Slightly lingering, warm 

I am happy I reviewed this one so you can make a sound decision on whether or not to buy one. Cheers! Enjoy Responsibly. 

Not in the mood to read? Listen to my SingleMaltLives Podcast

Sauza Conmemorativo Anejo Tequila

The first segment(Mostly not available on google search)

Occasions, Tips, alternates, cocktails, food pairings, SJ's Rating, Feel

SJ's Rating- Middle Shelf

Does not cut out to be on the top spot. Though enjoyable, it is more like a reposado than an anejo. The color, aroma and flavor would be better with more maturation in the barrels. 

Occasion- None

SJ's Pro tip- It is a budget anejo tequila

Alternates- Aha Yeto Anejo

Food Pairing- Chipotle chicken burrito bowl

Cocktail- Margarita of course 

The Second Segment(Technical details that are mostly available on google search)

Conmemorativo means in  honor of. This tequila is made in honor of the founding of destiliria la preserverancia 1873 as per the bottle. 

The product label says "Sauza Conmemorativo Anejo is 100% agave tequila that's both versatile and mixable. It's wood notes creates a complex drinking experience attained only through its aging process in medium toasted American Oak casks"

Vital Stats- Sauza Conmemorativo Anejo Tequila

Price-  $14.99 for 750ml(Was on discount)

Age- NAS

ABV- 40%

Region/Country- Mexico

Distillery- Destiliria la preserverancia, Jalisco, Mexico

Awards won- None found

Tasting info-

Serving glass- Tumbler

Serving style- Neat

Appearance- Very light golden, almost pale

Aroma- Vanilla, citrus, light spices

Flavor- Fruity, oak

Body- Medium

Finish- Smooth, warm, slightly lingering

I enjoyed sampling this tequila and hope you will too!. Cheers !! Enjoy Responsibly. 

Not in the mood to read? Listen to my SingleMaltLives Podcast

Kirkland Signature Citrus Hop IPA

 

The first segment(Mostly not available on google search)

Occasions, Tips, alternates, cocktails, food pairings, SJ's Rating, Feel

SJ's Rating- Middle Shelf

Though fairly enjoyable, it's too weak to be called an IPA and the head of this beer does not hold strong. For 24 bottes at $21 can't complain much lol. 

Occasion- Dinner

SJ's Pro tip- If you don't like light beer it is not for you

Alternates- Twisted X,TX Austin lager has much more flavor 

Food Pairing- Bratwurst & noodles

The Second Segment(Technical details that are mostly available on google search)

This beer is a private label of Costco under the brand Kirkland Signature. It sells a lot of great quality products under this name.  Hopfen and Malz Brewing Company makes these beer for Costco. There is really not much information about this brewery apart from the product packaging. Just like anything in a wholesale price, this beer is good but not the best for beer lovers. It is just a generic beer and a budget price so does the job. 

Vital Stats- Kirkland Signature Citrus Hop IPA from Costco

Price- $21 for 20 pack(12oz each)

Age- NAS(No Age Statement)

ABV- 4.9%

Company/Brand- Costco Wholesale

Region/Country- California, USA

Brewery- Hopfen und Malz Brewing Company, San Jose, California

Awards won- None

Tasting info-

Serving glass- Tall beer glass

Serving style- Chilled

Appearance- Light golden

Aroma- Citrus, some hops, very fruity aroma

Flavor- Citrus, some faint hops, fruits

Body- Light

Finish- Short, non-lingering

Enjoyed drinking and reviewing. Hope this helps to make a choice in your next beer. Cheers! Enjoy Responsibly. 

Not in the mood to read? Listen to my SingleMaltLives Podcast

Glenfarclas 10

The first segment(Mostly not available on google search)

Occasions, Tips, alternates, cocktails, food pairings, SJ's Rating, Feel

SJ's Rating- Middle Shelf

Did not make it on the top spot because it does not have the long smooth finish and also the flavor does not pack a punch. It is an easy-to-drink everyday scotch. 

Occasion- Friends get together

SJ's Pro tip- It is a budget-friendly scotch

Alternates- Glenfarclas 12 , similar price higher ABV 

Food Pairing- Pork nachos, spicy grilled duck

The Second Segment(Technical details that are mostly available on google search)

I have already covered Glenfarclas Distillery in my previous blog. 

Link-Glenfarclas 12

The product description in it's website states "100% Olorosso Sherry Cask maturation. 

Gloriously smooth yet with the depth and finish you would normally expect of a much older dram". 

I disagree on the part where it says smooth and good finish. This is where it lags behind to be on the top spot. 

Vital Stats-Glenfarclas 10 Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Price-$39.99

Age- 10 years

ABV- 40%

Region/Country- Highland

Distillery- Glenfarclas Distillery,Speyside,Scotland

Awards won- None found 

Tasting info-

Serving glass- Whisky glass

Serving style- Neat

Appearance- Dark amber

Aroma- Toffee, spices, sherry

Flavor- Spices, sweetness, some hint of smoke, citrus

Body- Medium

Finish- Warm, slightly lingering. Not the smoothest

Had a great time enjoying this expression of Glenfarclas with friends. Cheers! Enjoy Responsibly. 

Not in the mood to read? Listen to my SingleMaltLives Podcast instead. 

Kavalan Sherry Oak Taiwanese Whisky

 

The first segment(Mostly not available on google search)

Occasions, Tips, alternates, cocktails, food pairings, SJ's Rating, Feel

SJ's Rating- Top Shelf 

Just as expected from a sherry cask. Flavorful, smooth, and sherried. I recommend it to everyone if you can find it lol.

Occasion- Casual get-together over lunch with friends 

SJ's Pro tip- Great for sipping

Alternates- Glendronach 12

Food Pairing- Spicy tacos

Feel- Amazed

The Second Segment(Technical details that are mostly available on google search)

I have already covered Kavalan in my previous blog. 

Link-Kavalan

This particular expression Kavalan Sherry Oak is quite exclusive. The product label states "Matured in hand-selected top quality Spanish oloroso sherry casks. Dried fruits and raisins are the main characteristics of this unique Taiwanese whisky" 

Pretty much the only thing left to do is drink it! 🤣 Enjoy my tasting notes. 

Vital Stats- Kavalan Sherry Oak Taiwanese Whisky

Price- $129.99 for 750ml

Age- NAS(No Age Statement)

ABV- 46%

Region/Country- Taiwan

Distillery- King Car Kavalan Distillery, Yilan, Taiwan

Awards won- Numerous awards for its other expressions but not this one

Tasting info-

Serving glass- Whisky glass

Serving style- On the rocks

Appearance- Dark Mahogany

Aroma- Sherry, dark chocolate, fruits, spices, vanilla, oak

Flavor- Toffee, sherry, fruits, spices

Body- Full

Finish- Elegantly long, warm and smooth

I thoroughly enjoyed this with friends and they loved it too. Hope you find one and enjoy it soon.

Cheers! 🥃🥃🥃 Enjoy Responsibly. 

Not in the mood to read? Listen to my SingleMaltLives Podcast instead. 

Aberlour 12

 

The first segment(Mostly not available on google search)

Occasions, tips, alternates, cocktails, food pairings, SJ's Rating, Feel. 

SJ's Rating- Top Shelf 

 It is well-rounded and very smooth to drink. I like it because it has an amazing sherry flavor and is so smooth. It is a little overpriced though. 

Occasion- Rainy day momo party

SJ's Pro tip- Do a whisky flight with Aberlour 12, Balvenie 12 and Glendronach 12

Alternates- Balvenie 12

Cocktails- N/A

Food Pairing- Chicken/Pork Momo

Feel- Delighed 😊

The second segment(Technical details that are mostly available on a google search)

The product label reads "Aberlour whisky was born in the speyside village of Aberlour, made with local spring water from the Ben Rinnes and barley. Now locally sourced from the fields near our distillery"

Aberlour 12 is matured in two different casks, American oak and Spanish sherry. Their rich flavors impart the whisky over time. After twelve years of maturation in different casks, the magic of blending the whiskies is done by the master blender. This time the tasting notes are so accurate in the bottle, I honored it and pasted it in my tasting notes. The only thing left is to enjoy! Cheers! 

Vital Stats- Aberlour 12 Speyside Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Price- $57.99 for 750ml

Age- 12 years

ABV- 40%

Region- Speyside 

Distillery- Aberlour Distillery, Aberlour,Speyside, Scotland

Awards won- None found in its website 

Tasting info-

Serving glass- Whisky glass

Serving style- Neat

Tasting notes from product packaging

Appearance- Golden amber

Aroma- Soft and rounded with red apples

Flavor- Sherried, with chocolate, toffee, cinnamon, and ginger

Body- Medium

Finish- Lingering sweet and war with a little spice

I had an amazing time enjoying this with friends. Cheers! Enjoy Responsibly. 

Not in the mood to read? Listen to my SingleMaltLives Podcast

Winter drinks

Hello Single Malters, Today I am recommending some drinks that are great for Winter. The weather and season have a lot to do with my drink choices. Below are my recommendations-

Cocktails

Hot toddy- This classic drink heats the body and gives nourishment along with making you a little tipsy. 
Check out my previous post Making hot toddy for enjoying one at home. 

Irish coffee- For coffee lovers like me, it is perfect for sipping while keeping warm & energized at the same time. I will be making Irish coffee soon and posting it on my blog. 

If you are not in the mood to make a cocktail, then here are some that you can enjoy with much less effort!

Single Malts

Benriach Peated Cask Strength

Strong and smokey, just what you need for a hazy winter night. 

Ardbeg 5

Another great smokey scotch to enjoy neat or on the rocks during winter. 

Whisky/Bourbon

WhistlePig 10

Sipping by the fireside on a cold snowy night watching a Western movie would be an occasion to enjoy this bad boy. 

Jack Daniels Single Barrel Barrel Proof 

Is the winter cold challenging you? How about 65.85% ABV whisky that will take you for a ride. Enjoy this if you want a strong one. Pleasurable either on the rocks or neat. 

All right single malt lovers, it's time to stop reading and start enjoying a winter drink. If this helps in choosing the right drink for winter shoot a comment below. If you don't like my recommendations, leave a comment as well, I would like to listen and improve if necessary. Cheers 🥃🥃🥃. Enjoy Responsibly!

Not in the mood to read? Listen to my SingleMaltLives Podcast instead. 

Benriach 12 The smoky twelve

The first segment(Mostly not available on google search)

Occasions, tips, alternates, cocktails, food pairings, SJ's Rating, Feel. 

SJ's Rating- Top Shelf

It is the best smoky whisky I have ever had. The reason is the smokiness in the whisky does not overpower the sweet flavor and is very balanced and smooth. 

Occasion- Dashain celebration with family

SJ's Pro tip- If you prefer heavy smokey then look for other smokier whiskies

Alternates- Oban 14 (Similar price and taste profile)

Cocktails- N/A

Food Pairing- Goat bbq(The smokey whisky went perfectly well with smoked goat)

Feel- Delighted🤣

The second segment(Technical details that are mostly available on a google search)

The product label reads "Three-cask maturation in bourbon, sherry, and Marsala for creamy smoothness layered with ripened fruit, aromatic smokey sweetness, and warming oak spice."

From the master blender, Racial Barrie "Longer maturation brings more aromatic layers to our distinctive smokey style "

I have already covered Benriach distillery in my previous blog.

Link-Benriach Batch 2

Vital Stats- Benriach 12 The smoky twelve  Speyside Single Malt Scotch

Price- $60.99

Age- 12 years

ABV- 46%

Region- Speyside

Distillery- The Benriach Distillery, Morayshire, Scotland

Awards won- 2021 Double gold medal San Fransico World Spirits Competition

Tasting info-

Serving glass- Whisky glass

Serving style- First neat then on the rocks

Appearance- Beautiful dark copper

Aroma- Sherry, oak, fruits, spices, and of course smokey peat

Flavor- Fruits, vanilla, smoked oak, dark chocolate

Body- Full bodied

Finish- Smooth, long warm, and velvety

Absolutely loved sampling this one and presenting it to you. Cheers! 🥃🥃🥃Enjoy Responsibly.

Not in the mood to read? Listen to my SingleMaltLives Podcast instead.

High West Rendezvous Rye Whiskey

 

The first segment(Mostly not available on google search)

Occasions, tips, alternates, cocktails, food pairings, SJ's Rating, Feel. 

SJ's Rating- Top Shelf

Spicy, aromatic hits the mark to be on my top spot. 

Occasion- Casual drinking

SJ's Pro tip- Try other expressions of High West as a flight

Alternates- Jack Daniel's Rye Whisky Single Barrel(Similar ABV and flavor)

Cocktails- Rye Old Fashioned, Sazerac

Food Pairing- N/A

Feel(After Drinking)- Delighted😄

The second segment(Technical details that are mostly available on a google search)

I have covered High West Distillery in my previous blogs

Links-

High West American Prairie

High West food and cocktails

Reads the product story for High West Rendezvous "Rendezvous is a flagship whiskey, It is named for the annual gathering of mountain traders in Utah's Cache Valley in the early 1800s, 'Rendezvous' was the first whiskey ever produced by High West Distillery. This purposeful blend of aged column-and pot-still whiskeys brings a high rye mash bill and is never chill-filtered. It has a unique botanical and spice character with notes of dried cherries, cinnamon, spiced caramels, toasted walnuts, and ginger on the finish"

It could not be a more perfect product description. Single Malt Lives attests to every word of it! Now it is time to shut up and drink! 😁. Enjoy my tasting notes. 

Vital Stats- High West Rendezvous Rye Whiskey

Price- $79.99 for 750ml

Age- NAS(No Age Statement)

ABV- 46%

Region- Utah,USA

Distillery- High West Distillery, Park City, Utah

Awards won- None found

Tasting info-

Serving glass- Whisky glass

Serving style- On the rocks

Appearance- Dark copper

Aroma- Rye, botanicals, spices, honey

Flavor- Spicy, rye, lemon

Body- Full

Finish- Spicy, warm, long, and lingering

I enjoyed this expression of High west and recommend all single malt lovers to try it. Cheers!🥃🥃🥃 Enjoy responsibly. "If not sober, take an uber". 

Not in the mood to read? Listen to my SingleMaltLives Podcast instead. 

Dashain Festival Whiskies

Hello Single Malters, This week is Hindu's biggest festival, I wish everyone Happy Dashain! This festival is all about getting blessings from elders, eating goat meat, playing cards, and drinking liquor. In today's post, I am sharing my whisky recommendations to celebrate Dashain. 

My recommendations

Blended Scotch

1. Black Label Double black

For smokey whisky lovers, it is the perfect peg neat or on the rocks. 

2. Chivas Regal 

The classic ever popular whisky, especially loved in South Asian countries is perfect to drink and serve to a large party without breaking the bank. 

Single Malt Scotch

3. Macallan 12

If you are looking for a slightly smoother sipping whisky look no further!

4. Glenfiddich 12

Best value for money single malt whisky

Enjoy Responsibly! Cheers

Not in the mood to read? Listen to my SingleMaltLives Podcast

Jura 12 year old

 

The first segment(Mostly not available on google search)

Occasions, tips, alternates, cocktails, food pairings, SJ's Rating, Feel. 

SJ's Rating- Middle shelf 

It is an ok drink, did not meet my expectation to be on the top spot. A decent, easy-to-drink whisky. 

Occasion- Saturday night movie

SJ's Pro tip- Try other expressions of Jura

Alternates- Jura Turas Mara

Cocktails- N/A

Food Pairing- Chinese food. Crisp, spicy food went well with the neutral taste of this whisky

Feel(After Drinking)- Content 😎

The second segment(Technical details that are mostly available on a google search)

About the distillery, from the website "Our distillery was established in 1810 and reborn in 1963 to bring back life to the island and the community.Today, almost every family on the island has a member who works in the distillery, with our distillery, or in whisky-related tourism".  

Jura distillery does have a robust history and it's commitment to the island and its economy is duly noted!

About Jura 12. It is matured in Ameican white oak ex-bourbon barrels for 12 years and finished in Oloroso Sherry cask from Jerez Spain. More about Oloroso in Glenlivet Nadurra Oloroso cask

It is some hint of sherry in it but does not really come out that well. 

Vital stats- Jura 12 years old Single Malt Scotch 

Price- $41.49

Age- 12 years

ABV- 40%

Region- Island of Jura

Distillery- The Isle of Jura Distillery, Scotland

Awards won- None found

Tasting info-

Serving glass- Whisky glass

Serving style- On the rocks

Appearance- Dark amber

Aroma- Smokey, fruity, sherry

Flavor- Chocolate, hint of sherry,fruits, spicy

Body- Medium

Finish- Not long, warm non lingering

Though middle shelf, I still enjoyed sampling this whisky. Give it a shot and let me know. 

Cheers! 🥃🥃🥃 Enjoy Responsibly. 

Not in the mood to read? Liten to my Single Malt Lives podcast instead. 

Bandipur Blended Malt -Whisky from Nepal

 

The first segment(Mostly not available on google search)

Occasions, tips, alternates, cocktails, food pairings, SJ's Rating, Feel. 

SJ's Rating- Middle Shelf 

I was not impressed by the taste, does not meet the expectation. 

Occasion- Dinner at a friend's place

SJ's Pro tip-  Packaging is excellent and amazing as a gift item.

Alternates- Himalayan Tiger from Nepal is much flavorful

Cocktails- N/A

Food pairing- Nepali food

Feel(After Drinking)- Not satisfied

The second segment(Technical details that are mostly available on a google search)

This is my third post related with liquor from Nepal. I have previously posted Khukuri rum & Old Durbar. Bandipur Blended Malt- There is almost no information available on the internet about the distillery. In my analysis, it is like a private label scotch. Whisky is imported in barrels from Scotland but filled in bottles with a label on it, in this case Bandipur. 

Reads the product story "Nepal's first 100% pure blended malt whisky. Made exclusively in small batches in collaboration with Macduff International ". Not clear what it is blended with? The website is not accessible so not much information there. The taste will feel familiar because it is Scotch but just labeled differently!

Too much analysis, now its time to taste it. Enjoy my tasting notes! 

Vital Stats- Bandipur Blended malt Scotch Whisky

Price- $44.86 for 750ml(Price in Nepal)

Age- NAS(No Age Statement)

ABV- 42.8%

Region- Nepal

Distillery- Avanish Distillery in collaboration with Macduff International 

Awards won- None found

Tasting info-

Serving glass- Glencairn glass

Serving style- Neat

Appearance- Medium gold

Aroma- Light fruits, oak. Very subtle aroma

Flavor- Fruits, oak, sweet

Body- Medium

Finish- Short, non-lingering

I enjoyed sampling this bad boy from Nepal. Not the best but definitely one to add to the whisky cabinet. Hope, this one finds your way even though not an easy catch. Cheers 🥃🥃🥃! Enjoy Responsibly. 

Not in the mood to read? Listen to my SingleMaltLives Podcast

Jameson Black Barrel Irish Whiskey

 

The first segment(Mostly not available on google search)

Occasions, tips, alternates, cocktails, food pairings, SJ's Rating, Feel. 

SJ's Rating- Top Shelf 

A great twist on the regular Jameson. Has an amazing taste especially good if you like bourbon since it is matured in American ex-bourbon barrels. 

Occasion- Friday with friends

SJ's Pro tip- Refreshing change from regular scotch

Alternates- Jameson Caskmates, just as refreshing with a hint of beer

Cocktails- Old Fashioned

Food Pairing- Boiled fish & rice

Feel(After Drinking)- Delighted 😇

The second segment(Technical details that are mostly available on a google search)

Reads product label " Double charring the wood fires up the barrels and gives them new life. Untold richness and complexity awaits in every drop of Jameson Black Barrel.It is perfect on its own or on the rocks but it's also commonly known as the best whiskey for an Old Fashioned".

I agree with most of the product story, I have not tried an Old Fashioned with an Irish whiskey though! The base ingredient for an old fashioned is bourbon.  The interesting thing is that the barrels used for aging this Irish whiskey is ex-bourbon barrels which makes sense. 

I will try an old-fashioned with this Jameson and will post in my future blogs! For now enjoy my tasting notes! 

Vital stats- Jameson Black Barrel Irish Whiskey

Price-  $34.99 for 750ml

Age- NAS(No Age Statement)

ABV- 40%

Region- Ireland

Distillery- Jameson Distillery Midleton, Midleton, Cork,Ireland

Awards won- Best Irish Whiskey 2021, International Spirits Competition 

Tasting info-

Serving glass- Whisky tumbler

Serving style- Neat

Appearance- Rich dark amber

Aroma- Toast, Vanilla, fruits, chocolate, spice

Flavor- Spicy, fruity, chocolate, vanilla, toasted wood

Body- Full

Finish- Warm, spicy, medium linger

Single Malters you must give this one a shot and break from your regular scotch routine! 

Cheers!🥃🥃🥃 Enjoy responsibly!

Not in the mood to read? Listen to my SingleMaltLives Podcast

Lagavulin 16

 

The first segment(Mostly not available on google search)

Occasions, tips, alternates, cocktails, food pairings, SJ's Rating, Feel. 

SJ's Rating- Top Shelf

Great! just as expected for a 16-year-old smokey single malt. Loved the richness and layers of flavor it imparted. The interesting thing about it is that even though it has a peaty flavor, the other flavors shine through and are not overpowered by smokiness. It is very balanced. 

Occasion- Friend's housewarming party

SJ's Pro tip- Goes well with food

Alternates- Benriach 12

Cocktails- N/A

Food pairing- Nepali food

Feel(After drinking)- Satisfied

The second segment(Technical details that are mostly available on a google search)

The website of Lagavulin claims "Lagavulin is said to be one of the oldest distilleries on Islay and is world-renowned for its smoky, peaty whiskies". 

Reads the product label "Revered by connoisseurs and experts, Lagavulin is known as the king of Islay. It is an essential scotch whisky that any connoisseur or enthusiast must have in their collection; one of the world's favorite Malt Whiskies. Aged in oak casks for at least 16 years, this much sought-after Single Malt has the massive peat-smoke flavor that's typical of southern Islay while also offering richness and a dryness that turns into a truly interesting dram."

As a connoisseur and expert myself I attest to every word in this product story. 

Enough said, time to devour this delicious pour, enjoy my tasting notes. 

Vital stats- Lagavulin 16 Single Malt Scotch 

Price- $103.99 for 750ml

Age- 16 years

ABV- 43%

Region- Islay

Distillery- Lagavulin Distillery, Islay, Scotland

Awards won- Best single malt scotch 13-17 yrs, 2014, International Whisky Competition 

Tasting info-

Serving glass- Party plastic tumbler

Serving style- Neat

Appearance- Dark amber

Aroma- Peat, dark chocolate, fruits

Flavor- Smokey, hints of dark chocolate & fruits

Body- Full

Finish- Warm, spicy long, and lingering

I really enjoyed drinking this and hope you will too. Cheers! Enjoy Responsibly. 

Not in the mood to read? Listen to my SingleMaltLives Podcast

Christian Brothers VS Brandy

 

The first segment(Mostly not available on google search)

Occasions, tips, alternates, cocktails, food pairings, SJ's Rating, Feel. 

SJ's Rating- Middle Shelf

Quite enjoyable for the price. Since I drink scotch there is not much of a finish though. 

Occasion- Casual, movie night

SJ's Pro tip- Great for Sangria & as an after dinner drink

Alternates- E & J Brandy X.O. Similar price & taste profile

Cocktails- Sangria

Food pairing- Pasta, grilled chicken

Feel(After tasting)- Elevated 

The second segment(Technical details that are mostly available on a google search)

The Christian Brothers was founded in 1882 and has earned a reputation of one of the most popular brandy in America. 

Reads the product label "The Christian Brothers is made from the finest grape varietals and incorporates the same time-honored copper pot still production perfected over 75 years ago. The process is similar to that of fine Cognacs that create a rich flavor and full body, enhanced by slow ageing in hand-selected bourbon barrels for at least two years. During ageing the Oak Barrels imbue the brandy with layers of well balanced fruit flavors and a warm lingering finish. Finally the brandy is carefully blended to create a soft subtle texture ". 

I do not agree that is has layers of fruits or the lingering finish. Enough said! Time to drink it and know for sure 😆. Enjoy my tasting notes. 

Vital Stats- Christian Brothers Brandy VS(Very Smooth)

Price- $8.99 for 750ml

Age- Minimum 2 years but has NAS(No Age Statement)

ABV- 40%

Region- Kentucky

Distillery- The Christian Brothers Vineyards, Bardstown, KY

Awards won- None found

Tasting info-

Serving style- Neat

Appearance- Dark amber

Aroma- Fruits, somewhat medicinal smell

Flavor- Fruits, Sweet, syrupy, cinnamon, spices

Body- Medium 

Finish- Short, non-lingering

Had a great time sipping this brandy. Cheers! Enjoy Smartly. "Take an Uber if not sober"

Not in the mood to read? Listen to my SingleMaltLives Podcast

Canyonlands Confluence whiskey review & Moab Distillery/Brewery visit

The first segment(Mostly not available on google search)

Occasions, tips, alternates, cocktails, food pairings, SJ's Rating, Feel. 

SJ's Rating- Bottom Shelf 

It is a shame they call it single malt whisky because it isn't! Absolutely the worst most expensive whiskey I have ever had. Has no smell, feels like you are putting gasoline in your mouth. Threw it away after a couple of sips. 

Occasion- Moab brewery & Distillery visit 

SJ's Pro tip- Terrible, avoid this 

Alternates- Jack Daniels, cheaper price-wise yet more flavorful

Cocktails- Don't ruin a cocktail with this terrible liquor

Food Pairing- N/A

Feel(After tasting)-Disgusted 😑

The second segment(Technical details that are mostly available on a google search)

Reads the product label "Our whiskey is made with pure Colorado plateau water and 100% barley, then aged in a variety of new and used charred American oak barrels for a two-year minimum. Like the confluence of the rivers, we straight blend our barrels to make a spirit that is bold and complex with notes of malt, warm caramel, and spice ". This product story is entirely rubbish, yes it might have come from colorado river but I doubt 100% barely tastes so bad! 

Vital stats- Canyonlands confluence Single Malt whiskey 

Price- $16 per shot (1oz)

Age- NAS

ABV- 45.5% ABV(91 proof)

Region- Moab,UT

Distillery- Moab distillery, Moab, UT

Awards won- I give it the worst local whiskey award 

Tasting info-

Serving glass- Shot glass

Serving style- Neat

Appearance- Light golden

Aroma- Neutral, no aroma

Flavor- Burning, too strong, terrible taste

Body- Medium

Finish- A layer of petroleum-like liquid fills the mouth, with bad after taste

There are good whiskies and there is Canyonlands Confluence. 😀I am still happy to sample it and inform my readers to avoid it. It's a tough job but someone needs to do it 😉. 

For better-tasting whiskies, check out my other top-shelf liquors in my blog. Cheers! Enjoy Responsibly. 

Not in the mood to read? Listen to my SingleMaltLives Podcast

Oban 18

 

The first segment(Mostly not available on google search)

Occasions, tips, alternates, cocktails, food pairings, SJ's Rating, Feel. 

SJ's Rating- Top Shelf

As expected, smooth & delicious.  Loved it! Some things are worth the money, Oban 18 is a fine example of that. 

Occasion- Special occasion Moab visit

SJ's Pro tip- Have it neat to get its in-depth flavor 

Alternates- Glenlivet Archive 

Cocktails- N/A

Food pairing- Chicken momo

Feel(After Tasting)- Delighted 😇

The second segment(Technical details that are mostly available on a google search)

I have already covered Oban 14 in my previous blog. Please refer to that for distillery info. 

Link- https://www.singlemaltlives.com/2019/03/oban-14-year-old.html

Reads the product label "An elegantly matured single malt that balances opulent fruit flavors with rich peat smoke and spicy wood, culminating in long, smooth finish." Nothing more to be said here 😆. Highly enjoyable single malt scotch. 

Vital Stats- Oban 18 Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Price- $156.99 for 750ml

Age- 18 years

ABV- 43%

Region- Highland

Distillery- Oban Distillery, Stafford Street, Oban, Scotland

Awards won- 2020 SIP Gold Medal and innovation star award winner among multiple others

Tasting info-

Serving glass- Whisky Tumbler

Serving style- Neat

Appearance- Beautiful dark amber

Aroma- Flowery, hits of smoke, spices, vanilla, dark chocolate

Flavor- Smokey, sweet, some spices like cinnamon, chocolate

Body- Full bodied

Finish- Smooth, long, lingering & warm

Single Malt Lovers you need to try this! 😃Period. Enjoy Responsibly. Cheers!🥃🥃

Not in the mood to read? Listen to my SingleMaltLives Podcast instead.