I bought a bottle of Bowmore Legend when I was taking a taste tour of the various regions of Scotland. The Bowmore Legend is an inexpensive introduction to the Islay Malt, which (on first taste) was pretty overpowering.
I have since tasted the Bowmore, and really enjoyed it. I found that it was more enjoyable as a second drink, not a first. Unlike other whiskies, the Islay whiskies are still flavorful after drinking a lighter whisky first.
Over the weekend, I tried a Laphroaig 15yr while I was out at a local cigar bar. It was only a taste, and not a full dram, but I liked it!
I have an early edition of Michael Jackson's book on scotch, and saw that he rated the Lagavulin 16yr a 95. This was the highest score I remember seeing, and I also remembered seeing several people on the various boards saying the Lag 16 was their favorite drink.
When I found a bottle of Lagavulin 16yr at the local shop, I pulled the trigger and brought it home!
This whisky is incredible! However, it set me back $80! This is the most expensive bottle I have bought, and I'd really like to find a less expensive bottle that still 'brings it' in the taste realm.
I was back at the cigar bar last night, and after first trying the Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban and the La Santa (wasn't impressed with the QR, but did enjoy the LS), I ordered a Laphroaig Quarter Cask. It was quite tasty, but I did not get a very 'clean' taste, as I was smoking a cigar and (as mentioned) had already had a couple! In fact, I had just come from a wedding reception with an open bar, and had already enjoyed a few other whiskies (Red Label, Jim Beam, Jack Daniels).
I've taken the plunge, and have really enjoyed getting into the Islays!
Who else out there has enjoyed getting to know the Islay malts? What is your 'daily' dram, and what do you really enjoy when you have the opportunity?