Quote:
Originally Posted by CaptainHoneySmacks
Well, I would provide an update. I tried Chivas, Red Label, and Deware(Sample mini bottles). I managed to get some of the Chivas down, but the Red label was too potent with Iodine for me to be able to take more than a sip. I think maybe Islay and I are simply not meant to be. I think I will shop around and try some of the Speyside. Part of me would feel guilty if I bought a $40 bottle of Macallan and ended up not liking it. As long as it doesnt have the iodine taste though, I shouldn't have a problem with it.
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Given the blends you've tried, I think you'll eventually find the malts to be more intriguing than the blends. I'd recommend some of lighter malts which aren't peated as a point from which to continue. Try Strathisla 12; it's a major malt component in the Chivas blends. You might also give Strathmill and Jura 10 a shot. All of these can be had for $45-55. The Macallan 12 will run about the same and isn't peated, and it's pretty sweet given its time in sherry casks.
Unfortunately, there are very few malts available in 50ml bottles in the U.S. In New York there are a total of 21 Scotches listed for sale in this size. Of those, there are only 11 currently available, and of the 11 only 3 are malts. Thus, if you're not wanting to throw out the dough without knowing what something is like, the best place to try the base stuff like Macallan is in a bar, but unfortunately most bars (U.S. anyway) have very few malts outside of the standard Glenlivet, Glenfiddich, Glenmorangie, Macallan bottlings. So, you're going to have to take some risks or consult the board before you buy.