Tiers of Quality
January 28, 2013
Thoughts on Tiers of Quality in manufacturing, and how the same concept can be applied to the whisky industry, and how it affects a consumer’s ability to effectively spend his or her money on quality products.
Supply and Demand
December 17, 2012
I like to think that the cause of the historically established whisky bubble/bust cycle is twofold. One, the law of supply and demand coupled with the lengthy aging process of whisky. Two, the capriciousness of public opinion and global taste trends.
What does Grain Whisky taste like?
March 22, 2012
I’ve complained (often) about the hated specter of GRAIN WHISKY and the ruinous effect that it has on our lovely, pure single malt when blended by greedy profit-seeking conglomerates in their quest to dull the palates and wash the brains of innocent bar-goers the world round. *cough* Turns out that’s only half-true.
Whisky Prices Trend Upwards
February 20, 2012
Right now, like it or not, we are experiencing a boom. Distilleries are opening or ramping up production, prices are ratcheting higher, and limited-edition bottles are making headlines with record prices at auction. Many distilleries are riding the boom by releasing special bottlings and limited-editions at inflated prices because they know there’s consumer demand for them. So what’s to be done?
Whisky News of Note
November 10, 2011
Compass Box releases the “Last Vatted Malt” before UK law changes the name of the category to “Blended Malt Scotch Whisky”. Also, Connosr releases a new online magazine which focuses on whisky production worldwide, edited by Dominic Roskrow.
Mackinlay’s Rare Old Highland Malt Whisky
October 27, 2011
If I were weathering a snowstorm at the South Pole, I’d sure like to have several cases of this stashed under my cabin. Or better yet, under my bed! Eminently Highlander, with loads of honey and sticky-sweet candied fruits, a touch of smoke, a hint of rubber, and lots of flavor.
Great King Street “Artist’s Blend”
October 24, 2011
John Glaser has set himself a mission: To bring good blended scotch whisky back to the masses. This stuff is awesome, and it makes me very optimistic about the future of blends. You could, of course, use this for cocktails – but I like it straight up. It’s that good.
WhiskyFested
October 10, 2011
My first whisky festival was a fantastic experience. I tasted around 42 whiskies (plus a few that I didn’t remember to take notes on), managed to not get too drunk to navigate MUNI home, and met some great people in the business. Here are some highlights, as transcribed from my increasingly slurred voice recorder notes.
I’m Published!
September 29, 2011
I’m published! That’s right, yours truly, the Scotch Noob, enjoys page 14 billing in the Fall 2011 issue of The Whisky Advocate! I figured I’d take this opportunity to expound upon the views that landed me in this month’s issue.
