View Full Version : I need Whiskey help please. Top 5 whiskeys.
Hey guys.
We are getting married in Las Vegas at the end of September. We decided that we want to have a cigar bar, and a whiskey bar at the wedding. I'm not that familiar with whiskey, so I'd really like some cool ideas from you guys.
Tonight I picked up a bottle of Stranhan's on sale for $49.99 at Total Beverage.
I see that most other whiskey brands come in smaller sizes, so I was thinking of a smaller ($25) bottle of Bullett, and Knob Creek as well.
Anyway, when I walked into Total Beverage, I was stunned at the sheer number and variety of whiskeys. So, if you have to put together a Whiskey bar for a wedding, what would YOU put on it?
If you have ideas for cigars as well, that would be nice, but I'll likely just order some of those variety packs off the web.
Stranahan's
Knob Creek
Bullett
?
?
?
?
?
?
kanekutter05
08-13-2012, 21:24
I'm a fan of Jack Daniels Gentleman Jack myself
And on the cigar front, I haven't found a shop that beats Tewksbury downtown on 15th and Lawrence
Not sure on the whiskeys, but Daveco has a decent size humidor if you're looking for cigars (don't actually smoke cigars, just took note of it.
Hate to rain in your parade. But I wouldn't put any of those three in my list unless for sentimental reasons. If you want to serve something from the Beam distillery, basil Hayden's, Bakers, and Bookers are all better than knob, in that order.
It would be good to get you to taste a small variety of small batch (or better, single barrel) bourbons/sour mashes, and then I could easily recommend a bunch of stellar bottles. I've done multiple tours of bullet county Kentucky, and surrounding areas, and tasted hundreds more.
Do you have a budget in mind per 750mL? Most good bottles are 750s only.
ETA, gentlemen jack goes below those you suggested, IMHO.
ChadAmberg
08-13-2012, 21:30
Bushmills for the Irish Whisky.
A fine Scotch.
I hear the Japanese make a fine whiskey now that's preferred by many.
mahabali
08-13-2012, 21:32
Those are some nice choices! Stranahans is my absolute favorite! Add some Makers mark as well. I am more of a bourbon guy. Thats why I like your choices! But maybe add some scotch as well.
No one has rained on my parade. I know there are different kinds of whiskey, and I'm not sure if I want to do like some kind of world tour, or stick to a certain kind or what. So throw out those ideas, because I'd like to hear them, whatever they may be.
Also, I only know a few people in my family that know how to, and can appreciate drinking whiskey without a mixer. I don't want to just have a table full of Jack to placate the noobs, but would like some smoother stuff so people can at least drink some of the whiskey. I'd like to be able to get away with only having a few bottles because people won't chug it like they would if I put it next to Coca-Cola as a mixer.
Jayock, to answer your question on price...I'm not sure. I've got slightly over a month, and plenty of other things I need to spend money on. I'd like to spend $30 or under per bottle if I can get away with it.
Stranahan's is about the best for the money and it's local (don't you dare ruin it with a mixer...). A glass of that and a Cohiba are weekly traditions around my fire pit. I wouldn't spend $250 per bottle on rare whiskey that no one is going to appreciate. If I run across the pond again before you leave, I'll grab you some cubans...
Goodburbon
08-13-2012, 21:38
I like bourbon, but I don't have a terribly discerning taste.
I like makers 46 and just had some Platte Valley that was surprisingly good.
Those are some nice choices! Stranahans is my absolute favorite! Add some Makers mark as well. I am more of a bourbon guy. Thats why I like your choices! But maybe add some scotch as well.
You need to try some Pappy Van Winkle Family reserve, Olde Rip Van Winkle, or Elmer T Lee, Elijah Craig, or even Bookers. Will blow your mind if you think makers is really good.
buffalobo
08-13-2012, 21:39
Your list is started ok. Finish with
(Bullet)Bulleit Frontier
(Bullet)Bulleit Rye
Gentleman Jack
Check Cigar Aficionado magazine for the latest top five cigars(am a fan of the Makers Mark cigars, I buy them at a liquor in Casper when I pass thru). I know very little about cigars except what I like and the fact that I don't want to spend alot of money on them.
Balvenie Double Wood- My favorite single malt
Dimple Pinch- My favorite blend
Lagavulin- My favorite with steak, but exceptional overall!
My only suggestion would be to avoid certain single malts, depending on your crowd. Some of the single's (Bowmore, Laphroaig for examples) don't do well with people who don't drink scotches on a regular basis.
Glenfiddich Solera Reserve Single Malt
Crown Royal XR
Jack Daniels Single Barrel
Tullamore Dew Irish Whiskey
Sharpienads
08-13-2012, 21:40
I hate Stranahans. But I do like Jack and Jameson. I have simple tastes. Buffalo Trace is really good as well. A whiskey bar is a really cool idea.
ghettodub
08-13-2012, 21:41
Whisky is such a broad category... So even though I quit drinking three years ago, here's the list from this former alky (and strictly a whisky drinker). And FWIW and my .02, don't go less than 15 year. Makes a huge difference...
Dalwhinnie is probably my favourite scotch whisky
I liked Makers Mark for bourban
Rye: Hard to beat Crown Royal
Irish: Jameson 18 is wicked, as is Connemara
Japanese: Suntory Yamazaki is pretty great.
Stranahan's is about the best for the money and it's local (don't you dare ruin it with a mixer...). A glass of that and a Cohiba are weekly traditions around my fire pit. I wouldn't spend $250 per bottle on rare whiskey that no one is going to appreciate. If I run across the pond again before you leave, I'll grab you some cubans...
I think I must be a whiskey snob. But stranahans is very overpriced for the quality IMHO compared with what you can get in single barrel small batch out of bullet county. feel the same way about peach street out of palisade. I really want a good Colorado whiskey, haven't found it yet.
The CO guys charge 15-20 year prices for a 3-5 year whiskey.
Rye: Hard to beat Crown
Crown is a blend, less than half rye.
I hate Stranahans.
Blasphemy! I forgot, you AF guys probally hate MREs too and enjoy chow hall slop. Are you even allowed to sit around some Ranger TV (camp fire) or do you get hazardous duty for not having a toilet nearby?
Blasphemy? More like truth. It is really a very mediocre $50+ bottle of whiskey.
bobbyfairbanks
08-13-2012, 21:46
Hands down Jefferson's Reserve is the finest Bourbon ever made.
Arturo Fuentes are my favorite cigars. Check them out-
Agreed, good cigars...The Opus X are tough to find but well worth it.
Ooh. Forgot about Jefferson's. Their "very small batch reserve" is quite good.
Thanks for the reminder. Need another bottle of that soon.
For a good sub 30 dollar whiskey pick up some buffalo trace I would put it above knob an bullet myself
I appreciated the qualities of buffalo trace, so I respect it a lot. It didn't quite fit my personal palett, so it isn't one I buy often. But I understand what they were going for and appreciate it for what it is.
Rucker61
08-13-2012, 21:59
Are you going to have a regular bar? If so, I'd set the good stuff for straight drinking on the other side of the room from the mixing stuff, just to keep it safe from the nekulturny.
I'd go with 3 Scotches, two Bourbons and an Irish. My choices for Scots whisky would be Macallan 18, an older Glenmorangie, perhaps in a mixed barrel lot, and a Lagavulin or Ardbeg for the adventurous. I don't have much experience with Bourbons, and there are some nice single malt Irishes out there. You might want a nice VSOP or XO Cognac, too, as they go quite nicely with cigars.
Oh, many happy returns.
electronman1729
08-13-2012, 22:05
Elmer Lee
Rye whiskey (bullet is great as well)
Bookers bourbon (made by knob creek)
Elmer Lee
Bookers bourbon (made by knob creek)
No.
Bookers is made by Beam, as is knob. Booker Noe was the 4th master distiller at The Beam distillery as we know it, Jim beams son had a daughter who married a Noe, their son was Booker. Each beam master distiller, plus Baker Beam (who was assistant master distiller under Booker) get their own small batch they design themselves. Basil Hayden's is from the same situation.
Knob creek was a small distillery bought by beam many years ago.
I've had a good chance to talk with Baker Beam, and he has some great stories to tell of the history of the beam distillery post prohibition.
If I run across the pond again before you leave, I'll grab you some cubans...
That would be beyond cool, however, what are the chances of the TSA throwing a fit if they go through my luggage?
Tinelement
08-13-2012, 22:21
I would love to contribute to this thread, but.....
I'm scared Jayock is gonna scream at me!
[ROFL1]
I would love to contribute to this thread, but.....
I'm scared Jayock is gonna scream at me!
[ROFL1]
Not screaming. Hope it isn't coming across that way. Just stating my opinions, and correcting facts.
GilpinGuy
08-13-2012, 22:23
Gongrats on getting married man. Best thing I ever did was get married. Probably saved my life. I still don't get why she accepted, but we're happy as hell so life is good!
[Beer]
patrick0685
08-13-2012, 22:27
i feel like jayock and i should have been friends when i lived in CO i could have learned a lot and drank a lot
Tinelement
08-13-2012, 22:36
Not screaming. Hope it isn't coming across that way. Just stating my opinions, and correcting facts.
Yes sir I know. That's why I put the little laughy dude on there!
It was just funny reading through the thread!
I like the basics,
Wisers
Jack
Knob
Jamison
Makers
Old Charter
Dancing Pines
quondom fremd
08-13-2012, 22:41
If you are looking for something that is so thoroughly enjoyable, and even more so with a habano NUB, look at Black Maple Hill 14 Cask 152, it is by far my favorite bourbon albeit a little pricier
Being the Jack fan that I am...Stranahan's is a total ripoff.
RonMexico
08-13-2012, 22:45
Jonny walker blue or black or green
Makers mark
If you are looking for something that is so thoroughly enjoyable, and even more so with a habano NUB, look at Black Maple Hill 14 Cask 152, it is by far my favorite bourbon albeit a little pricier
Ooh. Maple hill is very good too. I prefer the red label if I had absolute choice to give out and expect lots to like. Both can be a bit of a chore to find at times. Another great reminder of a bottle I am missing and need to restock into my collection.
RonMexico
08-13-2012, 22:48
That would be beyond cool, however, what are the chances of the TSA throwing a fit if they go through my luggage?
Nope just take out the sticks from the tubes and bands. Thrown them in a different cigar box or travel container.
hghclsswhitetrsh
08-13-2012, 23:21
Wtf no one has said red stag yet? [LOL]
I kinda got drunk the other night and took a couple pulls off of the bottle. Gross.
GilpinGuy
08-13-2012, 23:47
Crown Black (i think).
I'm not a whiskey guy really, but I have dabbled lately. My bachelor party last year left me with a bunch of good booze.
The "Crown Black" was damn good, but I'm no whiskey expert.
Wtf no one has said red stag yet? [LOL]
I kinda got drunk the other night and took a couple pulls off of the bottle. Gross.
You're going to end up with "High Point affectionado" or something similar as your title for that one...
You're going to end up with "High Point affectionado" or something similar as your title for that one...
Ooh, ooh!!!
hghclsswhitetrsh
08-13-2012, 23:59
You're going to end up with "High Point affectionado" or something similar as your title for that one...
Hahaha. [Beer]
Someone listened. Lookie there.
hghclsswhitetrsh
08-14-2012, 00:09
Haha ah hell! Cheers!
Waywardson174
08-14-2012, 01:06
Putting together a 5 bottle dream team:
Strannahan's - because you're from CO
Middleton Irish Whiskey (I didn't see a price range, so why not)
Johnnie Walker Blue - yes, its a blend, but nothing under 35 years old
Jack Daniels Single Barrel - if you feel you need an american classic
McCallan - 16 yr or higher
Cigars - for a reasonable price
Nubs - Great smokes, last forever (about an hour) look great in photos
CAOs - anything in the Mx2 variety is smooth as anything I've ever smoked
I don't always indulge my vices, but when I do, I spend all of my money on them.
If you are serious about this situation I would highly recommend purchasing Jim Murray's: Whiskey Bible (http://www.whiskybible.com/)
Very good read and this guy is pretty much spot on on describing each individual whiskeys unique notes.
My personal opinions on the nectar of the God's are as follows:
Johnny Walker- Over priced, especially Blue label.
Jack Daniels-Oily in taste and buying Gent's Jack is like choosing a V6 Camaro over a V8 (bland). Green label tastes the best.
Best surprise whiskey-Hibiki 12-
Best Scotch- MaCallan 12 Sherry Oak or 15 Fine Oak. Both are dangerously drinkable and I have yet to meet a Scotch drinker let alone whiskey drinker that does not enjoy a good sip of this stuff.
Best Bourbon-4 Roses or Maker's 46
Either drop by Barnes & Nobles or get with one of your buddies who knows whiskeys. No one like a faker, let alone a fake whiskey lover. In the end, you pick what YOU think tastes good. Piss on everyone else who thinks otherwise because YOU are the one paying the tab and all they have to do is smile, nod, and enjoy your company. Be mindful that there will always be those who nitpick on shit like "oh I wish they had <insert random $$$ brand here> scoff.
Enjoy your whiskey tasting adventure
Cheers
http://i52.photobucket.com/albums/g35/jasonwaaa/1344869150919.jpg
Bailey Guns
08-14-2012, 06:04
Blasphemy? More like truth. It is really a very mediocre $50+ bottle of whiskey.
And "mediocre" is being VERY generous. I made the mistake of buying a bottle of Stranahan's. After an attempt at the first glass it became a really high-priced mixer. After trying that, I gave it away. It is, by far, the harshest whiskey/bourbon I've ever tried.
1. Buffalo Trace - hands down the best I've had, WAY underrated.
2. Bulleit Bourbon - gots a little more bite than Buffalo...but really good flavor.
3. Basil Hayden's
4. Booker's
5. ? - haven't bothered to get this far down the list. I've tried lots of others but nothing's made a "Top 5" list yet.
Just my personal choices...but I really don't think you'll be disappointed with Buffalo Trace.
Ok. My list, if I had to pick only 5:
1. Pappy Van Winkle Family Reserve 18 year
2. Elmer T Lee
3. Jefferson Reserve Very Small Batch
4. McCallan 12 Sheery Oak
5. Bookers
Costco has Crown XR for $89. Smoothest I've ever had.
But then again, I usually opt for a bottle of the Leopold Brothers New York Apple whiskey just for sippin'.
You can't go wrong with most Irish Whiskeys.
1-Jameson
2-Bushmills
are my top 2
3-Clontarf
4-Michael Collins
Single Malt Scotch Whiskey's are awesome and not too pricey unless you want the top shelf ones. Any Glens from the Highlands...
1-The GlenLivet
2-Glenfiddich
3-Glen Moray
glenmorangie is amazingly good.
Bourbon:
Woodford Reserve
Elijah Craig 18 yr
Eagle Rare
Makers Mark
Blanton's
Scotch-
Balvenie Doublewood
Glenmoangie
Glenfarclas
Macallan 12 or older
Laphroaig
Through college and up until about 8 years ago, I only drank bourbon and no scotch. Now if a bottle of scotch gets opened, it's usually gone in one night between my neighbor and I.
I still love bourbon though. Went to the distilleries on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail about 5 years ago (7 at that time, Buffalo Trace had some sort of issue with the dept of tourism in KY since then). That was a good time with a private tour of Makers Mark and Buffalo Trace.
I'd go with 3 Scotches, two Bourbons and an Irish.
First, thank you everyone for the great ideas. I really like this suggestion because it lends some structure to the plan and gives me parameters to work within. So, with this structure in mind, I'd like to set up a kind of intro to whiskey bar. I want these three types of whiskey. If possible, I'd like a distinct flavor difference between brands in each type, and certainly between each type.
I want opinions on choosing 3 Scotches instead of one scotch. I find that scotch is the hardest to appreciate for a new whiskey drinker. Is that because I haven't had good scotch? I don't want to put stuff out that people can't handle.
Do these new suggestions change anyone's lists? Could we start putting what type of whiskey each suggestion is as well, since I don't know?
Zombie Steve
08-14-2012, 10:35
Hands down Jefferson's Reserve is the finest Bourbon ever made.
If I don't get some whiskey, I'M GONNA DIIIIEEEE!!!!
(c'mon, someone other than bobby name that movie...)
I'll second the Jefferson's Reserve.
Jameson is a great all-rounder Irish whiskey
Congratulations on getting married, by the way...
Waywardson174
08-14-2012, 11:10
I want opinions on choosing 3 Scotches instead of one scotch. I find that scotch is the hardest to appreciate for a new whiskey drinker. Is that because I haven't had good scotch? I don't want to put stuff out that people can't handle.
Do these new suggestions change anyone's lists? Could we start putting what type of whiskey each suggestion is as well, since I don't know?
Scotch is hard for a lot of folks to taste. I had an interesting experience in JW Blue Label being the first whiskey I ever tried, it was so smooth and tasty that I've been a scotch drinker ever since. Many of my friends are not.
For the novices, I serve Cardhu (a great $35 dollar bottle). It is light and sweet. Very nice on the pallat. Easy for a non-scotch drinker to get into.
With two scotches left to go, I admit my earlier Blue Label recommendation is quite pricey (that's why I let my brother buy mine).
The Macallan's are very hard to go wrong with, and there is one for every price range.
I'm glad someone mentioned Balvenie, those are also really good, but with the other two I've recommended, I think the best final bottle is a Laphroig. It is harder than the others, and will provide a nice balance across your scotch offerings.
All the above are scotches.
Irish Whiskey - I still say go Middleton, at $140 a bottle, it is pricey, but it is a light caramel whiskey that ANYONE can appreciate. (If you see anyone water this stuff down, kindly take their glass, set it down on a solid table, and proceed to beat them; I'll consider it a personal favor).
If that is way out of your price range Bushmills is great, but get an older bottle, the 16 year-old is head and shoulders above the younger ones, and for not too much more money.
Everyone seems to have whiskey covered.
For cigars I buy from JR's Cigars. you can order a sampler, they have them often, say 20 mixed cigars for about $30-40. Honestly most people cannot taste the difference in cigars, like wine, beer or bourbon. The nuances are tough to pick up even for experienced smokers.
The key thing is to buy smooth easy smoking cigars. I like the Nicaraguans, but they are stronger. Dominican and Honduran are generally milder.
Fuentes are great cigars, if you can find them at a reasonable price.
Haven't read the while thread yet but I have to agree with this. Stranahans is way over priced for it's quality. If you want something along these lines made in Colorado for a much cheaper price go with Leopolds made here in Colorado
http://leopoldbros.com/New_site/Whiskies.html
I happen to be a scotch snob and if cigars are in order I suggest having a couple on hand. A good intro, quality one would be Balvenie Doublewood which should run you around 40 (Also consider their Carribean Cask). Macallen is a great choice for those who want something not to complex and would probably be enjoyed by all. Glenmorangie is pretty light and also relatively inexpensive. If you have to drink an Irish I would suggest Redbreast in 12 year or if you can get your hands on it Jameson Gold Reserve
I think I must be a whiskey snob. But stranahans is very overpriced for the quality IMHO compared with what you can get in single barrel small batch out of bullet county. feel the same way about peach street out of palisade. I really want a good Colorado whiskey, haven't found it yet.
The CO guys charge 15-20 year prices for a 3-5 year whiskey.
Aloha_Shooter
08-14-2012, 11:48
I like Makers Mark and Gentleman Jack on occasion but go to 18 year old Glen Fiddich for special occasions. You probably don't want 18 year old anything for an open bar at the wedding, 12-year-old single malts like Talisker, Dalwhinnie and The Macallan should suffice. You really need to taste the varieties as some are smoother than others or will have a smokier flavor.
Some of the larger brands will have small single-shot taster bottles -- that would give you a chance to sample several and pick a few tastes you want people to experience.
I'm glad someone mentioned Balvenie, those are also really good, but with the other two I've recommended, I think the best final bottle is a Laphroig. It is harder than the others, and will provide a nice balance across your scotch offerings.
Just for reference, Balvenie Doublewood was my "gateway" scotch. Couldn't stand most scotch before I tried the Balvenie, but it was so smooth, not so peaty and I was hooked on scotch from then on.
Just for reference, Balvenie Doublewood was my "gateway" scotch. Couldn't stand most scotch before I tried the Balvenie, but it was so smooth, not so peaty and I was hooked on scotch from then on.
Nectar of the Gods [Beer]
Rucker61
08-14-2012, 12:01
Just for reference, Balvenie Doublewood was my "gateway" scotch. Couldn't stand most scotch before I tried the Balvenie, but it was so smooth, not so peaty and I was hooked on scotch from then on.
For me, it was Laphroaig. Not smooth, quite peaty, but it's still my favorite.
<soapbox>
After reading this whole thread I am convinced only a few of you actually have taste buds (Jayock). I am a whiskey/bourbon and scotch snob - with my current collection being worth more than some peoples cars. I have been to 200+ distilleries in my life (75% of them in Scotland) and will one day retire, get my license from the fed and start making my own.
This is my list for top 5 affordable bourbon/whiskey that you can actually find on the shelves in Colorado:
5. Breckenridge Distillery
4. Buffalo Trace
3. Pappy Van Winkle
2. Basil Hayden's
1. Woodford Reserve Distillers Select
If you want a Scotch to throw in there you cant go wrong with Balvinie Doublewood - for the money it is flat out the best Scotch, at its pricepoint, on the market right now. Followed closely by Highland Park (if you can find it).
Oh and for all of you cretins who keep saying "McAllen", "McAlan" and the like its "The Macallan" -- and the best value for the money there is the 15 Sherry Oak (if you can find it -- fine oak != sherry oak) and 18 year being the absolute best scotch that money can buy (and yes I have a bottle of, and tasted, 25 and 40 and I have also tasted 100 year old at Easter Elchies).
For anyone that is trying to recommend something like Lagavulin, Laphroaig, or Talisker - STOP. These are not beginner scotches - some people don't like the taste of Band-Aids and Iodine in their drinks.
</soapbox>
Everyone seems to have whiskey covered.
For cigars I buy from JR's Cigars. you can order a sampler, they have them often, say 20 mixed cigars for about $30-40. Honestly most people cannot taste the difference in cigars, like wine, beer or bourbon. The nuances are tough to pick up even for experienced smokers.
The key thing is to buy smooth easy smoking cigars. I like the Nicaraguans, but they are stronger. Dominican and Honduran are generally milder.
Fuentes are great cigars, if you can find them at a reasonable price.
Agreed, and this is my general plan.
electronman1729
08-14-2012, 12:32
No.
Bookers is made by Beam, as is knob. Booker Noe was the 4th master distiller at The Beam distillery as we know it, Jim beams son had a daughter who married a Noe, their son was Booker. Each beam master distiller, plus Baker Beam (who was assistant master distiller under Booker) get their own small batch they design themselves. Basil Hayden's is from the same situation.
Knob creek was a small distillery bought by beam many years ago.
I've had a good chance to talk with Baker Beam, and he has some great stories to tell of the history of the beam distillery post prohibition.
Thanks
Didnt know the complete back story there.
My barber has a good selection at his place "clip joint barber shop" off 6th and I-225 might be far for you though. Don't know much about whiskey, but I know there is a Colorado company I saw on the history channel that had very good whiskey. Sorry don't know the name. I'm getting married the same time here, congrats and good luck!! Vegas would get me in trouble, lol.
Templeton rye its hard to get local. You can get ot from san fran wine co online.
soldier-of-the-apocalypse
08-14-2012, 14:42
I like regular jack and crown royal and pendletons but I'm whiskey tango
Troublco
08-14-2012, 15:23
Blasphemy! I forgot, you AF guys probally hate MREs too and enjoy chow hall slop. Are you even allowed to sit around some Ranger TV (camp fire) or do you get hazardous duty for not having a toilet nearby?
The hazardous duty pay only starts when we can't get cable. And why would we have a fire when we have climate control? It's not like we need a fire to make coffee, we have coffeepots for that. Food you heat in a microwave. Wait, you're not talking about deer camp, are you? [ROFL1]
Stranahan's is one I like. It has gotten pricier than I think it's worth, though.
Connemara
Tyrconnell
Clontarf
Red Breast
Jameson Gold
Gentleman Jack
And I'd be lyin' if I said I didn't like Johnny Walker Blue. But that doesn't really belong here.
I am anything but a whiskey snob, but I look at it the way I look at wine. I drink what I like. If I want to drink a white wine with beef, I do.
Cigars - I'm not a big cigar aficionado, but on the occasion when I want one, I like Ashton VSGs. They aren't terribly cheap, though.
wctriumph
08-14-2012, 16:11
If it comes in a wine bottle, don't buy it!
Jack Daniels is always good
Makers Mark is smooth
Jefferson's Reserve is really yummy but way pricey
Johnny Walker Black Label is the lowest to go on Scotch
I like the older Jamisons for Irish
and a McCallums is great too.
Please forgive the spelling
I'm not much of a whisky guy, but here are my favorite Scotch and Bourbon.
Scotch:
Maccallan
Aberlour
Auchentoshan (three wood)
Glenlivet
Glenfidich
Oban
Bourbon:
Woodford Reserve
Jefferson's
Blanton
Also, if you can find it Connemara is an excellent single malt Irish whiskey.
Cigars:
Ashton
Macanudo
Oliveros
Baccarat
Onyx
Author Fuente
Padron anniversary
Bulleit, obviously - Best for mixing in Mint Julep or with a splash of Ginger Beer.
Woodford Reserve - On the rocks Bourbon - Add a splash of water to appreciate
Bushmills - Regular is very good- 400th anniversary is spectacular(was on sale at AppleJack for 39.99)
Crown Royal is good for Canadian Whiskey
Stay away from Knob Creek...oversmoked for a Bourbon
Scotch - reasonable price _ Glenfiddich
Just my Humble PROFESSIONAL opinion.. ROFL
Scotch - reasonable price _ Glenfiddich
Normal (read 8/12 yo) Glenfiddich is some of the worst rated scotch in existence. I'd rather drink Old Sheep Dip, or Dewars, than 8/12 year Glenfiddich.
Their Caoran is decent (if you like peat) - but there is soo much better at that price point.
^^^^
I will defer my Scotch pick to the connesewers(intentional spelling) of the swill.
XC700116
08-14-2012, 18:22
Basil Hayden's or Bookers has to be on the list IMO.
XC700116
08-14-2012, 18:30
I think I must be a whiskey snob. But stranahans is very overpriced for the quality IMHO compared with what you can get in single barrel small batch out of bullet county. feel the same way about peach street out of palisade. I really want a good Colorado whiskey, haven't found it yet.
The CO guys charge 15-20 year prices for a 3-5 year whiskey.
Check out Deerhammer Distillery in BV. Right now they are only doing "white whiskey" which honestly is fantastic. But they've started aging as well of course that's a few years out though for obvious reasons since they just got their license about a year ago.
centrarchidae
08-14-2012, 19:01
Bourbon or "American": Stranahan's, Basil Hayden's Knob Creek, Woodford Reserve (Yes, I like Stranahan's, god help me)
Rye: Ri1 (Yes, it's made by the Jim Beam people. But it's good enough that you wouldn't know it)
Irish: Bushmill's, Tullamore Dew.
Scotch: I don't know scotches that well.
Cigars: If these aren't semi-regular smokers, then I'd go mild: Macanudo with Connecticut wrappers (everybody knows Macanudo) or Rocky Patel Edge Lite or RP Connecticut 1999 or Oliva Connecticut reserve (which I like a hell of a lot better than the first two).
Ashton Classic and Ashton Cabinet are also good for milder smokes, but a lot more spendy.
If you want something a little stronger, I've been on a CAO Brasilia and Man-o-War kick lately.
I'd skip the cigar stores and go straight to online: http://www.cigarbid.com or http://www.cigarauctioneer.com, which are the auction sites owned by http://www.cigarinternational.com and http://www.famous-smoke.com. They've both sucked an unholy amount out of my wallet over the years.
keylay31
08-14-2012, 20:08
+1 for Maker's Mark
This thread makes me thirsty! There goes the wallet! [Coffee]
Normal (read 8/12 yo) Glenfiddich is some of the worst rated scotch in existence. I'd rather drink Old Sheep Dip, or Dewars, than 8/12 year Glenfiddich.
Their Caoran is decent (if you like peat) - but there is soo much better at that price point.
This. The 18 year Glenfiddich is fine though
GilpinGuy
08-14-2012, 21:53
Holy crap. Just get a few good whiskeys for your wedding and be done with it. You have enough bullshit to deal with. After an hour nobody knows the difference anyway.
Don't forget a bottle of Fekin Whiskey (http://www.feckinwhiskey.com/input-birthday.php?redirect=/index.php) just to bring out the Irish accents in everyone. It's actually pretty fekin good too for cheap whiskey!
funkfool
08-15-2012, 10:49
Well - for cigars - I would only do one or two types - a natural (light shade wrapper) and a maduro...
I would tend to shy away from the 'samplers' where you get one of each type - they tend to arrive dry and in poor shape... (all the singles left from boxes...)
Remember - after they arrive keep the boxes sealed - or they will need to be kept protected and at ~70°/70% humidity till your event...
I don't know your budget or how many folks are invited - but here is a good starting point:
Siglo: http://www.mikescigars.com/cigars/siglo-limited-reserve-iv/box-of-25 (this is a great price)
Partagas: http://www.mikescigars.com/cigars/partagas-naturales/box-of-25
Romeo-y-Julieta: http://www.mikescigars.com/cigars/romeo-y-julieta-1875-reserve-maduro-no.-4/box-of-27
All great smokes...
I always buy from Mike's Cigars of Miami (http://www.mikescigars.com/)
Been a customer of theirs for 20+ years and never a problem.
The Macallen 18 is a great scotch....
http://www.beveragewarehouse.com/images/products/1524.gif
+1 for everyone who said The Macallan! Love that stuff! I too love Jame-o!
But shame, no one said Chivas, I love that stuff. Some say single malt is the way to go, but I love blended. And big shame no one mentioned perhaps the best of the best from the south: Wild Turkey! If it's good enough for Dr. Hunter S. Thompson to drink at least 1/2 a bottle a day it's good enough for me! [Beer]
I think we're getting close to 70 people that have rsvp'd.
I think 20 cigars will be enough, and hope I don't have 20 cigars going at once.
patrick0685
08-15-2012, 12:11
where are you getting married in Vegas?
hghclsswhitetrsh
08-15-2012, 12:22
Go with backwoods cigars. Clint Eastwood style.
I think we're getting close to 70 people that have rsvp'd.
I think 20 cigars will be enough, and hope I don't have 20 cigars going at once.
Strip clubs will have more if you need them....oh wait, you said cigars. Strip clubs will have those too (and almost every hotel there).
where are you getting married in Vegas?
We rented a house. I don't know where exactly.
So, I've got the Stranahan's and a bottle of Templeton Rye. I have to say that I like the Templeton Rye a lot better than the Stranahan's. Thanks Hobowh.
Redbreast Irish whiskey is fantastic!!
This is what I've got for the wedding. I hope people like it.
https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zjCfQFj4t4g/UE_ZHWIa0xI/AAAAAAAAAus/G_B47xkgMnE/s903/IMAG0801.jpg
Total Beverage on 104th just East of Washington has 7 bottles of Macallan Cask Strength Sherry Oak (guy said that there are only four cases left in the country) and about 20 bottles of the 12 year Sherry Oak as well.
This is what I've got for the wedding. I hope people like it.
Looks like a good selection. Hope you see the bottoms of all of 'em. ;)
Total Beverage on 104th just East of Washington has 7 bottles of Macallan Cask Strength Sherry Oak (guy said that there are only four cases left in the country)....
He was lying. Cask strength is one of the major 'lines' coming out of Macallan for the last few years - there is no shortage, they built a separate bottling line just for it.
Full disclosure: I think that is the one he pointed to. Either way, it looked fancy, but at $68+ a bottle, it was too much for me.
I wasn't sure if I felt baller, or silly, for dropping almost $150 on liquor I'll most likely not be able to enjoy. Most I've ever spent at once on booze though, that's for sure.
Full disclosure: I think that is the one he pointed to. Either way, it looked fancy, but at $68+ a bottle, it was too much for me.
I wasn't sure if I felt baller, or silly, for dropping almost $150 on liquor I'll most likely not be able to enjoy. Most I've ever spent at once on booze though, that's for sure.
Single Malts are expensive.......but so worth it. That being said $150 won't always go far, especially once you develop a palate for them.
enthusiast
09-16-2012, 16:22
Double post.
enthusiast
09-16-2012, 16:29
This is what I've got for the wedding. I hope people like it.
I went out looking for some Templeton Rye at Davidson's and they did not have any. They said it will be in soon.
I ended up with these. The Four Roses is very good and easy to drink. The Russel's Reserve has a good spice to it. (my first rye whiskey).
http://verticaltier.com/images/gunthreads/whiskey_01b.jpg
Jim Beam Red Stag black cherry! Freakin amazing bourbon! I am a beer drinker but I have a soft spot for Red Stag!
Agree with the recommendations for Bushmills or Basel Haydens.
Good stuff that...
Here is the result from the wedding. Thanks for all the help guys, I really appreciate it.
https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-vaUCSW80ikY/UHEtUn3xSiI/AAAAAAAAAvk/u71mO88cEdQ/s903/IMAG0831.jpg
kidicarus13
10-07-2012, 07:06
Looks like Buffalo Trace and Templeton Rye were the favorites.
hghclsswhitetrsh
10-07-2012, 07:32
Here is the result from the wedding. Thanks for all the help guys, I really appreciate it.
https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-vaUCSW80ikY/UHEtUn3xSiI/AAAAAAAAAvk/u71mO88cEdQ/s903/IMAG0831.jpg
What's up with that? Did you only have 6 people at your weddin' or what? [Stooge]
UncleDave
10-07-2012, 09:08
No kidding. That is not much damage.
Professor Frink
10-07-2012, 10:03
Based on the amount of bourbon left, I was clearly not at your wedding.
I'm confused.. those are the 3rd bottles after you had to go get more right?
I think only one person tried the Macallan. I was pretty confused by that.
Zundfolge
10-07-2012, 17:04
Was going to put this in the funny pics thread but they're still yelling at each other over there over politics.
So I'll put this here.
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8462/7950378728_b0154fde04_o.jpg
Here is the result from the wedding. Thanks for all the help guys, I really appreciate it.
https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-vaUCSW80ikY/UHEtUn3xSiI/AAAAAAAAAvk/u71mO88cEdQ/s903/IMAG0831.jpg
Clearly you need new friends.
http://www.wordans.fr/wvc-1294691167/wordansfiles/images/2011/1/10/62142/62142_340.jpg
As soon as I get it all back, I will drink each and every last one of those bottles. We finished off the Templeton Rye before we left Vegas though.
I just read this and saw that you were getting married, congratulations stuving! [Beer]
Thanks Spyder. We had a good time out there and just got back on Friday.
Aw... now you get to go through the honeymoon phase... [Coffee] Heh... have a good year. [Beer]
Congrats on your maraige. Best wishes for the future.
BPTactical
10-07-2012, 21:33
Congrats Stu[Beer]
Back on the whiskey thing-40 Creek good!
Congrats on your marriage. Best wishes for the future.
Thanks again for the Templeton. As you can see, everyone loved it.
Was going to put this in the funny pics thread but they're still yelling at each other over there over politics.
So I'll put this here.
http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8462/7950378728_b0154fde04_o.jpg
I Like! Where can I get one?
Congrats Sturving!
Looks like your friends left more than enough for you to have a tasting.
Zundfolge
10-08-2012, 09:02
I Like! Where can I get one?
http://theblight.net/store
hghclsswhitetrsh
10-08-2012, 11:09
Congrats. Which one of your family/friends drank the red stag? Hahaha
ruthabagah
10-08-2012, 14:53
Best one out there: Laphroig. It's not a bourbon, but for me the perfect whisky
Zundfolge
10-08-2012, 16:04
Best one out there: Laphroig. It's not a bourbon, but for me the perfect whisky
+1 if you want Scotch.
As for bourbon, I'm perfectly happy with Maker's Mark.
Whoa, old thread!
So, I drank all the whiskey we had left, then I bought some more (Leopold's from Colorado), and drank that. The point of this post is that the Feckin Irish Whiskey was always in a totally different ballpark than the other whiskeys, and I could never figure out how people drank Irish Whiskey. I used to hang out/work at a bar, and the bartendfers would swig out of a handle of Jameson, and I could hardly do a shot. Anyway, ever since I decided to stop spending money on liquor every weekend (so I could buy a scope), and I've only had the bottle of Feckin left, I've found it increasingly easy to just drink out of the bottle without even cringing.
What is it with drinking Irish Whiskey out of the bottle anyway?
P.S. Sorry in advance for this lubbed up post, in an old thread that has run its course.
No worries, was just thinking of this. I just broke into a new bottle of the Templeton, so right there with you.
I saw a bunch of Templeton Rye at the Total Beverage by my house the last time I was there. I asked the guy about it and he said, "Yeah, that stuff comes in all the time." I replied with "Great! Then I don't have to buy any now." He said it was common, but I've never seen it there before.
Templeton was still my favorite. I liked the Leopold Bros., but it tasted very dry.
They started getting it at Tipsy's over here as well. I usually pick up a case when I go to DesMoines to visit friends its around 20 a bottle there. I really like Whistle Pig but hate paying for it at 75 or higher, havent tried the leopold bros might have to give it a shot.
Hey all you whiskey fans I have a bottle of Stranahans for sale. I can no longer drink do to a medical condition so it is up for sale. It's sealed and has Thanks to the Vets on the comment section on the label. Send me a PM with an offer
brokenscout
03-24-2013, 10:35
Makers Mark
coldaudio
03-25-2013, 22:00
Try the Leopold stuff made with New York State apples... I think it's their best.
BPTactical
03-25-2013, 22:15
40 Creek Barrel select.
Yeah...would love to...BUT...I am boycotting anything with N Y products. If they can't control their politicos, they don't earn my business. Colorado product boycott may be next, but I'll give it until the next election cycle. I will not be hunting in CO this year...sad...but fortunately Nebraska has good hunting opportunities.
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