Scotch Tasting

Last Thursday I went to my first scotch tasting. As I get older, more and more of my friends are drinking scotch - something I know nothing about... so to learn more, I went to my first scotch tasting event. I was surprised to see how distinct the flavors in scotch were. Unlike wine tasting, where the I find the flavors more hidden, in scotch, it was in your face, you cannot miss the fruitiness, nor the smokiness....

We tasted the following scotch:

Glengoyne 17
This was very light, and very fruity, the favor of crispy apple will hit your senses immediately.

Region: Highlands
District: Highlands
Body: Medium, very firm and smooth
Palate: Rich flavors, clean fruitiness

Macallan 15 Fine Oak
This is extremely popular here in the US - almost everyone drinks Macallan. This was as if the scotch was dipped in caramel.

Region: Highlands
District: Speyside
Body: Full, smooth
Palate: Toffeeish, gently fruity

Dalmore Cigar Malt
Most interesting texture to the tongue, so smooth and slippery, oil like... and slides right through the tongue and down the throat.

Region: Highlands
District: Northern Highlands
Body: Firm, smooth
Palate: A hint of rum butter, hint of burnt sugar and faint smoke

Highland Park 18

Region: Highlands
District: Island Orkney
Body: Remarkably smooth
Palate: Lightly salty, pine nuts

Laphroaig
One gentleman at the tasting described this scotch as "Highland Park on steroids" - but to me, it was more like hospital patient smoking on his death bed. To me, it smelled like a pharmacy. It does have a nice smoky sensation, but after taking a few sips, everyone's breath smelled as if they have just been smoking

Region: Islay
District: South Shore
Body: Medium, oaky
Palate: Seaweed, salty, oily

Macallan Amber Liquor (Scotch)
yummm..... alcoholic maple syrup! If I through this on my morning pancakes it would be perfect. A perfect substitute for cognac, port or any after dinner drink!