I couldn't agree more about adding water. Definitely, if someone has tried it and it's not for them, fine. But I think many people tend to be dismissive either because their water is hard (and yes, that'll totally ruin a dram) OR because they think of water only "diluting" the ethanol. In reality it is diluting all the various flavor components, which have different perception thresholds, kind of like our hearing is logarithmic and not linear. A single drop may "turn off" that note of "acetone" (in reality it's ethyl acetate) or turn it into a tropical fruit note, which in turn will reveal something else, which was previously drowned out by it. Multiply this by several hundred - there might even be several different sweet spots in a dram. And they'll be in a different place for different people. Lots of people are just addicted to the pleasant "bite" of cask strength spirits. I can understand that, it can be enjoyable on its own, but there are simpler high abv whiskies for that. A well matured, complex bourbon or malt presented at a higher abv just have so much to offer with water. But do this: take a high quality overproof rum (like Hamilton 151 or Plantation O.F.T.D.) and keep tasting it while adding good soft drinking water (use bottled if you have to, don't use mineral water). This is a bit cheaper if you worry about wasting your malt. If you learn to do this right, it'll feel like you're "watering up", not "watering down". And fair dues: some spirits, including some whiskies, don't take water at all.
Yeah. I'm glad you mentioned that some drams don't improve by adding water. Most do, but one of my favourites, Caol Ila 12, definitely doesn't improve by adding water.
Great video! No water, no ice, just neat! I find that time in the glass (minimum 30-40min before the first sip) is best to get all the whisky has to offer rather than watering down a great dram.
OK, I have just watched all of your videos in a single sitting in one Aqavitae channel binge.. I only have one word to say... *MORE!!!!* ((((( please :)))))
One of the few whisky reviewers who suggested even adding ice. I know it’s sacrilege but on occasion I add a bit of ice to do two things: Adds water and chills the scotch a bit. Room temp in So. California is 80F...way to warm to drink.
Of all your videos this is the one that had me cheering the most... I laughed out loud when you produced the oat cakes! You put things together here so eloquently and well that I couldn't think of anything that could have been added to make this video any better... Slainte!!
Well - I missed "Let it sit....." 😊 Thanks Quig! I'm struggling to think of a whisky I could've introduced you t o that would've had the same impact as the oatcakes!
I often forget "Let it sit..." myself, especially when I just get home from work. Most of the letting it sit happens for months in the opened bottle. I believe it adds up to the same thing in the end of the day... The oat cakes have improved every whisky I tasted after eating them, so I agree that such an impact would be hard to top.
Indeed I had some whiskies I did not enjoy - only to find out after months and even years of neglect that the have completely changed for the better. Longmorn 15 is my best example. This works for traditional quality whiskies without peat. For peated whiskies my observation is that the peat reduces significantly which I typically do not appreciate, e.g. Laphroaig. So what I do is to refill the rest in small bottles with little air, works well. Regards from Munich area.
GREAT TIPS! I especially like tip 10 to SHARE the whisky, even on your own, search the whiskey your drinking, and watch videos of others drinking the same whisky as you, just BRILLIANT IDEA!
I am a former alcoholic. After 5 years of being sober I'm getting into wisky and appreciating the flavor. I limit myself to 1 glass whenever I do partake. I also only do it with my wife now, who I've given permission to hold me accountable, making sure that I have no more than a glass. It's really fun to sip and talk about what we're tasting as opposed to downing a fifth a night just to get plastered.
3 years latger (probably a bit more) I have to congratulate you to having found a way of appreciation of taste rather than anhybriation! May you live long and prosper! (I had to finish with this last phrase, meaning it in its full sense!!)
I have to agree about various food pairings, like chocolate, cheese, etc. There's also a gentleman that reviews [mostly American] whiskeys and he usually includes separate notes when tasted with a walnut and with a dried cranberry. And I think Woodford does an extended version of that in their tastings. Well, I've tried all these things, along with fresh fruit, and I find that whisky may enhance the foods sometimes, but the food tends to dumb down the whisky. It's a bit like emphasizing a single band of a graphical equalizer while listening to music, while dialing back all the others - yes, it'll enhance that frequency, but the overall music perception will degrade. I could see doing this to "access" certain aspects, such as when a master blender is assessing various casks or batches, but not for appreciation. Just my opinion, of course :) Oh, and make sure your water isn't hard, especially the water you add to whisky. Those minerals tend to bind flavor components. The same goes for strong-tasting things like nuts (skins will contain astringent tannins, which chemically bind aromatics), chocolate (also tannins), cheese (protein and fat, which will alter flavor, but also strong glutamic flavor aka "umami"). Funny, people associate cheese with wine but cheese is more to mask ordinary wine, it will detract from good wine, especially the sharper cheeses.
I’m a huge Ralfy fan, watched almost all his videos...have been looking for a new channel to supplement it...well I’ve found it! Love your videos, such well presented, credible, insightful information. I’m a subscriber!
As an Aussie I hate the whole “never put ice in whisky” bs. Yeah I love a heavily peated cask strength whisky neat but not on a 40 degree summer day. A nice easy drinking dram over ice on a hot day goes down a treat
Roy: Forgot to mention that your point about sharing whisky is Right on! I went to a Bottle share Birthday and brought two whiskies not many had tried ISLE OF JURA Duirachs' Own and Té Bheag. They were both a hit. It was a pleasure to see people find new whiskies to enjoy. Mike
Well spoken and spot on with a lot of these recommendations. It’s funny you mentioned the coffee, as I do find that a shot of black espresso prior to whisky tasting leaves my palate better suited to picking up nuances. I’ve gotta seem out these oat cakes, but when sitting for enjoyment, dark chocolate and shortbreads are quite good pairings without preparation. I always have something on hand to snack on late nights while sipping on a dram or three.
spot on with the pairings, try a wee bit of hard, nutty cheese (like Manchego) and watch how it switches up the whisky flavours and gives it a great texture!
i totally agree the point of drinking in a larger glass esp. for cask strenght. my favorite glass for higher alcohol content malt's is the Laddie dram glass from Bruichladdich
I'll add a suggestion as something maybe you can try. I find when a dram gets really low in the glass (almost empty) that the nose changes dramatically as it not overpowered by alcohol. Sometimes I keep just the smallest amount of whiskey in the bottom of the glass for hours to appreciate it. Because of this, I picked up the habit of starting a session with only 5mL or less in the glass, only pouring a proper dram once I have had a chance to really appreciate the nose. You can also use two glasses, alternating between your "nosing glass" and your "drinking glass." Great fun.
I will you Roy when you are on holiday with your family but I plan on watching all your recorded shows and drink along just like you were live. Who knows I might be better on the quiz the second time around :D
Awesome video Roy! I love your passion, knowledge, and practical wisdom. The thing that makes you and your videos amazing is that you know so much about whisky but still don't have that scotch snobbery thing going on:) Slainte my friend!
I'm so glad to hear someone suggesting different glassware! In my case, I'm sure it's a psychological effect, but I find many whiskies more enjoyable when it's slightly chilled (just cooler than room temp) in a wide open rocks glass. Maybe it just softens the punch of the alcohol, or maybe it just reminds me of the bars I started drinking whisky in a dozen years ago when I knew nothing of whisky regions and flavor profiles, back when we drank purely for fun and good times with friends.
🙏 my no 11. If lucky enough, visit the distilleries. Did a pilgrimage to Islay 2yrs ago and every dram transports me back. The taste of Bruichladdich, Kilchoman and Bunnahabhain particularly. Then there’s the taste of home (Melbourne) with Starward... 🥃🥰 Slainte
To add to the glass aspect: The Irish Tuath Glass sports a widened lip in addition to the tulip shape. This helps spread the liquid on the tongue. To me, it is mechanically upping the Glencairn. However, the latter will always be a champion in durability!!
I love your advice about ice adding to enjoyment. In Texas where I live it's routinely 40+ degrees C in the summertime, so adding an ice cube can make all the difference on a warm evening. Having been to Scotland twice in the last 3 years I've really started to enjoy and branch out into the world of whisky, and your video's have been a real treat. I will also start trying the shot of black coffee as a warmup, that makes a lot of sense.
Well put, Enjoyment vs Analysis, two very different things. The "moment" matters so much and I cannot agree with you more, experiment with it. I must compliment you on your voice. Your delivery, cadence and tone are mesmerizing. If I had your voice my kids would have been asleep long before the chapter ended on the bedtime stories. Great Job!
Great tips. I totally agree with the occasional ice on ones you get real familiar with. Ardbeg 10 works surprisingly well on some ice. Tends to give it some butter. That whisky is amazing. Ice will not screw it up. It changes it in a good way. Cheers. I like your style. Great Job!
Having a glass of Glenffidich 12 with a flight has really helped me getting flavours. How amazing the tasting blind I attended recently was. One of the best video's I've watched, to help my appreciation of whisky. Atb Paul.
with regards to coffee, that was something new I learned during the macallan tour. A sniff of the coffee beans on the table would reset my smelling senses. Quite remarkable how it worked between each dram of whisky.
Great video. I think you should mention the oxidation and how different the taste can be if you leave the glass for 10 minutes before you drink it. Newly opened bottles never taste as good as when you taste it again a few weeks later, in my experience.
I agree completely, some whiskies change dramatically especially when comparing with the first pour. Also, having the patience to let a dram sit (or foresight to pour an extra!) can improve it a lot too.
New to the this site, all ready following 3-4 others as well. Good information here BUT- you really don’t need the loud background music, it’s a little annoying
Hello Roy: More experimenting, I had an Ice-cream soda (Mint Chocolate-Chip) with Doctor Pepper and Templeton 4 y.o. Rye as dessert tonight. Enjoyed the Rye note backing up the Mint. Finished the heel of the bottle. Dr. Pepper is a Spicy soft drink. On a separate note, learned that the name Campbell in Gàidhlig is CAM=Crooked or Rye BUEL= Mouth COOL. SLÁINTE Mike
Interestingly Camron in the original Camshròn pronounced (CamRo nn) can be understood as Crooked Nose Cam=crooked Srón=Nose. When the two words are combined it causes an H=Hah sound to replace the S Haron (Camharon) Srón in both Irish and Scottish Gaelic means Nose Only the accent mark changes direction depending if it is IRISH or SCOTTISH Gaelic. Some of this needs further research since sometimes it is too easy. Mike
Aqvavitae I completely agree with you. It's better to taste without knowing the brand. I find the results are very surprising. For me i like to cleanse my plate with a shot of tequila. I actually prefer my whisky with no water. I want to enjoy it in its natural form. Diluting it in my opinion ruins the flavor but Great Review.
Thank you for sharing. You’ve quickly become one of my favorites. I’m mostly a bourbon whiskey drinker, but now I want to try more whisky because of you. Thank you!
These are Great Tips! Regarding Blending, I Blended a 1/2 Tasting Snifter pour of REDBREAST 12 Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey with a Tablespoon of LAPHROAIG 10 Whisky and got a dram which merged the best of both! At least to my palette! SLÁINTE Mike
Yes Mike it's great fun to 'play' with the whisky sometimes. Right now I have an experiment to make an imitation Brora ( I'm calling it "Brogus" 🙃 ) Where I've taken 20cl of old Clynelish and adding 1 or 2 teaspoons of old Caol Ila, it's waiting in the bottle, I'll let you know how it goes!
All of your videos are great. Here are some ideas. Let's say one of my off the wall ideas causes you to have some other, different idea for a video... great. Consider introducing your friends who helped sample and compare some of the whisky's in your earlier episode. There's a scene of whiskys being poured in multiple glasses around a table, with friends to give you their impressions... Consider showing us your current whisky collection, or alternatively tell us your own favorites that you have tried, and/or your favorites where you purchased the bottle yourself (you could taste a sample yet possibly not have encountered a full bottle to purchase). You could tell us of your travels, possibly to visit distilleries, or possibly visits to stores to find some new selections. Comment about some of Ralfy's ideas. Example: To NAS or not to NAS in reviews or in your own purchases. Also note how he 'fixes' whisky that he feels has a bad taste... he sometimes has further aged whisky with his own free floating staves in a small barrel or container. He sometimes adds a small amount of great tasting whisky from the same distiller. Ralfy talks about distillers he avoids due to his initial experience (Bowmore for example) but over the years the initial bias seems to go away. You could give your own similar experiences. Tell us if you know of a 'sidekick' who might join you for reviews of whisky. Ralfy does it all himself, but other channels that include two good friends are also great. You could give us your take on adding small amounts of water to whisky to 'open up' or improve a dram of whisky. What is your preference? Irish, Bourbon, Rye, Canadian, Japanese, or other world Whiskys. Your thoughts? Adding an ice cube on a hot summer day? I'm interested to hear your views. Thanks!
Thanks Raster. One of my friends from the video you mention is dabbling with his own set-up for RUclips and you can find him here: ruclips.net/channel/UCEsRnzvFCjOIZptp1zAOpqQ I have a lot of ideas, but I find making the time difficult with a young family and a real job. I'll still put together concepts and ideas I find interesting or useful but I hope folk are patient with me as my pace is a little slow. On ice and water - I covered these in this video here 👍 Cheers!
These are all great suggestions. I've done nearly all of them. And about ice: when it's 90 degrees outside, whisky with ice is wonderful. So is whisky in a rocks glass, neat. I've also been taking notes for a few years now: docs.google.com/document/d/1KYlbLjQyADQskTHFoOPbRmqPqRvne_ceqniX4oEpF9k/edit?usp=sharing
Ok, I went and bought the exact same oatcakes that you showed... Well, they are certainly more salty and less bland than I expected. But they also managed to eliminate any bitterness I had from an IPA before the whisky. Interesting.
Nice one Roy. Have been collecting/drinking whiskies for a few months now and I always learn something new from people like yourself and Ralfy etc. Keep up the good work. Slainte.
I like his points: coffee which for me clouds my palate and nose for a long time, I prefer a nice Porter. It also works well for me as a palate cleanser interspersed and water too of course. Also I tend to let things sit in a Glencairn with watch-glass cover often for over an hour nosing about every 15 minutes or so then proceed to the flyte-sipping. Often I find water is no longer essential, although it can be fun to experiment with a few drops at time with 5 or 10 minutes between drops. Bottoms-up, Frankie
Not sure why this only now came up on my suggested videos but I enjoyed it. If I added an 11th thing. It would be "change things up".. I was getting a little tired of whisky, so I swapped to some nice rums for about 4 or 5 month.. Now I drink everything really.. It's probably extremely bad for me. If they made apple flavoured lighter fluid i'd probably give it a try.
I especially enjoy adding club soda and a big ice cube to even my most prized whiskies. I no, it's sacreligious, but I love it that way. Also, I love to mix a sweet whiskey with a peated whisky, 3 to 1 and add bitters with a big ice cube.
Thank you Roy. I've just watched this following a binge watch of your recycled reviews and it certainly adds to my overall intell / whisky journey. I've discerned so much from Ralfy since I re-discovered single malts, but it is always good to listen to another man's opinions. Slainte Mhath 👍.
Grand,that’s a double measured wisdom . As different lengths fingers serves us much better, It’s more enriches watching different reviewers. Keep those Tube “drams” coming🥃
Fantastic video. And great comments. The whisky community all appreciating your love and respect for the product as well as guidance. Funnily the only one I don't naturally do is take notes. One more I like to do is create a solera. Obviously chucking in any old dregs will result in a mish-mash ( unless it's bourbons) but putting together the final inch of well matched whiskies into a bottle and topping up, sipping and repeating can be very enjoyable. A new flavour profile every time.
We have a whiskey bar at home. Hubby drinks his with water. I drink mine with a cube of home made ice. It melts slower than fridge made ice and the whiskey opens up as I drink it. He thinks I’m crazy. Thanks for proving me right 👏🏾
On nights I am tasting, I work to a pour 4 schedule ... not together however. I pour, nose and taste each dram individually - make my notes then move towards the next. Usually working from something light towards bold flavours. This still works for contrasting if you have good sensory recall - the difference between each Whisky is apparent without having them side by side. It has allowed me to appreciate complexities and aspects of various Whiskies that may have gone unnoticed as you say ... great way to work. This can also lead to "Malt Revelations" ...
I have been drinking scotch for the last 40 years and single malts for the last 25. But I have a problem. I got to have a drop of soda water. I've tried the most expensive water but it does not work for me! What do you think Roy?
A great and educational video. You just missed mentioning a knowledgeable and professional whiskey master, Horst Lüning. He is undoubtedly one of the bests in the business.
Finally an online voice in the malt whisky community points out the possibilities on ice. A nice pour over 3 large, good quality pieces and you get a slightly different experience each sip. Doesn't replace neat, but a fine way not only to enjoy but actually appreciate, also.
Brilliant! Thank you for sharing - a bit cheeky nicking the oatcakes at the end...this video should be watched by anyone who drinks whiskey for whatever reason.
Great video. Hope you’ll get the inspiration and time to produce more of them. I’m not so crazy about the 1-2 hour long live videos. Cheers, Claus from Copenhagen, Denmark
This is some, it teaches so much in 15 minutes that you couldn't learn in a life time of drinking whisky, especially when you though you knew it all. Thank you Brother
I agree about the rocks glass and a little ice for just enjoying good whiskey! I think it’s interesting how the flavor changes as the ice slowly melts and changes the dilution.
Wow, I'm the 55th comment. The people love you. Some great tips there. My big tip is simply enjoy it if you do enjoy it. It's not compulsory to like whisky. Some people bend over hoops to like wine and whisky like it's part of finishing school. Whisky is an amazing and life enhancing drink though and your advice is top notch. Cheers. WelshToro
Talking of hasta proxima, I'm of to southern Spain around half term. Would love to meet up down there. Let me know when you go down there and maybe we can sort something out. (The missus will kill me)
I couldn't agree more about adding water. Definitely, if someone has tried it and it's not for them, fine. But I think many people tend to be dismissive either because their water is hard (and yes, that'll totally ruin a dram) OR because they think of water only "diluting" the ethanol. In reality it is diluting all the various flavor components, which have different perception thresholds, kind of like our hearing is logarithmic and not linear. A single drop may "turn off" that note of "acetone" (in reality it's ethyl acetate) or turn it into a tropical fruit note, which in turn will reveal something else, which was previously drowned out by it. Multiply this by several hundred - there might even be several different sweet spots in a dram. And they'll be in a different place for different people. Lots of people are just addicted to the pleasant "bite" of cask strength spirits. I can understand that, it can be enjoyable on its own, but there are simpler high abv whiskies for that. A well matured, complex bourbon or malt presented at a higher abv just have so much to offer with water. But do this: take a high quality overproof rum (like Hamilton 151 or Plantation O.F.T.D.) and keep tasting it while adding good soft drinking water (use bottled if you have to, don't use mineral water). This is a bit cheaper if you worry about wasting your malt. If you learn to do this right, it'll feel like you're "watering up", not "watering down". And fair dues: some spirits, including some whiskies, don't take water at all.
Nice feedback and insight
Yeah. I'm glad you mentioned that some drams don't improve by adding water. Most do, but one of my favourites, Caol Ila 12, definitely doesn't improve by adding water.
@@shadmo8629 they don't leave much room for water 😎
Great video! No water, no ice, just neat! I find that time in the glass (minimum 30-40min before the first sip) is best to get all the whisky has to offer rather than watering down a great dram.
Roy if you posted more videos you’d blow us all out of the water. You’re top notch brother. Great review. Cheers.
Loving how we all have a different style and niche, thanks Rob, looking forward to our hook-up. #whiskyfabric
OK, I have just watched all of your videos in a single sitting in one Aqavitae channel binge..
I only have one word to say...
*MORE!!!!*
((((( please :)))))
I'm on it my friend!
One of the few whisky reviewers who suggested even adding ice. I know it’s sacrilege but on occasion I add a bit of ice to do two things: Adds water and chills the scotch a bit. Room temp in So. California is 80F...way to warm to drink.
I am very impressed, and thankful for your sharing, perspective and approach to whiskies.
Awesome comment! Thanks for taking the time WT - you're welcome here anytime!
Of all your videos this is the one that had me cheering the most... I laughed out loud when you produced the oat cakes! You put things together here so eloquently and well that I couldn't think of anything that could have been added to make this video any better... Slainte!!
Well - I missed "Let it sit....." 😊 Thanks Quig! I'm struggling to think of a whisky I could've introduced you t o that would've had the same impact as the oatcakes!
I often forget "Let it sit..." myself, especially when I just get home from work. Most of the letting it sit happens for months in the opened bottle. I believe it adds up to the same thing in the end of the day... The oat cakes have improved every whisky I tasted after eating them, so I agree that such an impact would be hard to top.
Indeed I had some whiskies I did not enjoy - only to find out after months and even years of neglect that the have completely changed for the better. Longmorn 15 is my best example. This works for traditional quality whiskies without peat. For peated whiskies my observation is that the peat reduces significantly which I typically do not appreciate, e.g. Laphroaig. So what I do is to refill the rest in small bottles with little air, works well. Regards from Munich area.
GREAT TIPS! I especially like tip 10 to SHARE the whisky, even on your own, search the whiskey your drinking, and watch videos of others drinking the same whisky as you, just BRILLIANT IDEA!
Great stuff Aqvavitae. Completely agree with your suggestions, to include the golden rule.... drink your whisky the way YOU enjoy it! 😉
Cheers! - I'm gonna gueeesssssss - Andrew! (mebbe Mark)
Aqvavitae Mark 😉
I am a former alcoholic. After 5 years of being sober I'm getting into wisky and appreciating the flavor. I limit myself to 1 glass whenever I do partake. I also only do it with my wife now, who I've given permission to hold me accountable, making sure that I have no more than a glass. It's really fun to sip and talk about what we're tasting as opposed to downing a fifth a night just to get plastered.
3 years latger (probably a bit more) I have to congratulate you to having found a way of appreciation of taste rather than anhybriation! May you live long and prosper! (I had to finish with this last phrase, meaning it in its full sense!!)
Mate, this was absolutely amazing. Thank you so much for your wisdom and advice! Cheers!
I have to agree about various food pairings, like chocolate, cheese, etc. There's also a gentleman that reviews [mostly American] whiskeys and he usually includes separate notes when tasted with a walnut and with a dried cranberry. And I think Woodford does an extended version of that in their tastings. Well, I've tried all these things, along with fresh fruit, and I find that whisky may enhance the foods sometimes, but the food tends to dumb down the whisky. It's a bit like emphasizing a single band of a graphical equalizer while listening to music, while dialing back all the others - yes, it'll enhance that frequency, but the overall music perception will degrade. I could see doing this to "access" certain aspects, such as when a master blender is assessing various casks or batches, but not for appreciation. Just my opinion, of course :) Oh, and make sure your water isn't hard, especially the water you add to whisky. Those minerals tend to bind flavor components. The same goes for strong-tasting things like nuts (skins will contain astringent tannins, which chemically bind aromatics), chocolate (also tannins), cheese (protein and fat, which will alter flavor, but also strong glutamic flavor aka "umami"). Funny, people associate cheese with wine but cheese is more to mask ordinary wine, it will detract from good wine, especially the sharper cheeses.
I’m a huge Ralfy fan, watched almost all his videos...have been looking for a new channel to supplement it...well I’ve found it! Love your videos, such well presented, credible, insightful information. I’m a subscriber!
Thank you Mark - such a wonderful comment to read! I hope you stick around!
Likewise!
I feel like this video is an elaborate conspiracy to promote oatcakes
Mark Wilson busted 😖
As an Aussie I hate the whole “never put ice in whisky” bs. Yeah I love a heavily peated cask strength whisky neat but not on a 40 degree summer day. A nice easy drinking dram over ice on a hot day goes down a treat
Love it! Agree with all. Cheers!
Thanks, I really appreciated this. I'm going to try the coffee tip. Blind tasting is really enlightening it gives a whole new insight.👍
Roy:
Forgot to mention that your point about sharing whisky is Right on! I went to a Bottle share Birthday and brought two whiskies not many had tried ISLE OF JURA Duirachs' Own and Té Bheag. They were both a hit. It was a pleasure to see people find new whiskies to enjoy.
Mike
The late lamented anCnoc 16 was sublime over ice. Arran 12 is too.
Still haven't tried the shot of coffee idea!
The Whisky Wuman the AnCnoc 16 was sublime for sure, they have it currently at the Horse. Still miss that. You try the coffee, I'll try the Arran 😉
Well spoken and spot on with a lot of these recommendations. It’s funny you mentioned the coffee, as I do find that a shot of black espresso prior to whisky tasting leaves my palate better suited to picking up nuances. I’ve gotta seem out these oat cakes, but when sitting for enjoyment, dark chocolate and shortbreads are quite good pairings without preparation. I always have something on hand to snack on late nights while sipping on a dram or three.
spot on with the pairings, try a wee bit of hard, nutty cheese (like Manchego) and watch how it switches up the whisky flavours and gives it a great texture!
Aqvavitae I’ll have to try that out... meat and cheese trays are a favourite of mine while entertaining.
Very Good tips Roy. Gave me some ideas.
Tapadh Leat/Thank you
Mike
I sip my glen morey here - smoke a robusto zigar and i Need Go Thank you so much vor the video and greetings, love Form Bavaria germany ❤️
i totally agree the point of drinking in a larger glass esp. for cask strenght. my favorite glass for higher alcohol content malt's is the Laddie dram glass from Bruichladdich
I'll add a suggestion as something maybe you can try. I find when a dram gets really low in the glass (almost empty) that the nose changes dramatically as it not overpowered by alcohol. Sometimes I keep just the smallest amount of whiskey in the bottom of the glass for hours to appreciate it. Because of this, I picked up the habit of starting a session with only 5mL or less in the glass, only pouring a proper dram once I have had a chance to really appreciate the nose. You can also use two glasses, alternating between your "nosing glass" and your "drinking glass." Great fun.
Something I've never done, but I can see the appeal - thanks Michael.
I will you Roy when you are on holiday with your family but I plan on watching all your recorded shows and drink along just like you were live. Who knows I might be better on the quiz the second time around :D
Awesome video Roy! I love your passion, knowledge, and practical wisdom. The thing that makes you and your videos amazing is that you know so much about whisky but still don't have that scotch snobbery thing going on:) Slainte my friend!
Awesome comment Keith. Very cool to have you stop by! 😊
A much needed alternative to those "drink whisky like a gentleman" videos out there, loved it!
yeah pile of shite those
I'm so glad to hear someone suggesting different glassware! In my case, I'm sure it's a psychological effect, but I find many whiskies more enjoyable when it's slightly chilled (just cooler than room temp) in a wide open rocks glass. Maybe it just softens the punch of the alcohol, or maybe it just reminds me of the bars I started drinking whisky in a dozen years ago when I knew nothing of whisky regions and flavor profiles, back when we drank purely for fun and good times with friends.
you are a pleasure to listen to and are very informative .cheers
You are a pleasure to read! Thank you for a fantastic comment Daniel!
another helpful post thanks
🙏 my no 11. If lucky enough, visit the distilleries. Did a pilgrimage to Islay 2yrs ago and every dram transports me back. The taste of Bruichladdich, Kilchoman and Bunnahabhain particularly. Then there’s the taste of home (Melbourne) with Starward... 🥃🥰 Slainte
To add to the glass aspect: The Irish Tuath Glass sports a widened lip in addition to the tulip shape. This helps spread the liquid on the tongue. To me, it is mechanically upping the Glencairn. However, the latter will always be a champion in durability!!
All great tips Roy. I like the pairing w/ dark chocolate, experimenting w/ blending, switching up the glassware, and most importantly sharing. Cheers!
Hope you're enjoying all Travis! 👍
I don't remember what I drank last week alone, but I remember what I drank last year with my friends. Amazing what sharing a drink does!
Haha! that's too true Jaime!
I love your advice about ice adding to enjoyment. In Texas where I live it's routinely 40+ degrees C in the summertime, so adding an ice cube can make all the difference on a warm evening. Having been to Scotland twice in the last 3 years I've really started to enjoy and branch out into the world of whisky, and your video's have been a real treat. I will also start trying the shot of black coffee as a warmup, that makes a lot of sense.
Well put, Enjoyment vs Analysis, two very different things. The "moment" matters so much and I cannot agree with you more, experiment with it. I must compliment you on your voice. Your delivery, cadence and tone are mesmerizing. If I had your voice my kids would have been asleep long before the chapter ended on the bedtime stories. Great Job!
Yeh, I often send people close to sleep! But seriously, thank you for a wonderful and confidence-filling comment, it's really very much appreciated! 🙏
Great tips. I totally agree with the occasional ice on ones you get real familiar with. Ardbeg 10
works surprisingly well on some ice. Tends to give it some butter. That whisky is amazing. Ice will not screw it up. It changes it in a good way. Cheers. I like your style. Great Job!
Thanks my friend - so glad you're enjoying your drams anyway you like 'em, and fully agree on playing with ice. It's ....er..."cool". Apologies.
Sir, Awsome information
Having a glass of Glenffidich 12 with a flight has really helped me getting flavours. How amazing the tasting blind I attended recently was. One of the best video's I've watched, to help my appreciation of whisky. Atb Paul.
Awesome Paul - so nice to read. Thank you and great to hear how much you're enjoying. 👍
I love your very thoughtful videos. Quite different than the Whiskey Vault videos, but equally entertaining and extremely informative.
Thanks Tom! when it comes to good whisky, everyone has something to share!
with regards to coffee, that was something new I learned during the macallan tour. A sniff of the coffee beans on the table would reset my smelling senses. Quite remarkable how it worked between each dram of whisky.
Great vid!
I did a video of how to cool your whisky and people were really not happy hahaha
Great video. I think you should mention the oxidation and how different the taste can be if you leave the glass for 10 minutes before you drink it. Newly opened bottles never taste as good as when you taste it again a few weeks later, in my experience.
I agree completely, some whiskies change dramatically especially when comparing with the first pour. Also, having the patience to let a dram sit (or foresight to pour an extra!) can improve it a lot too.
New to the this site, all ready following 3-4 others as well. Good information here BUT- you really don’t need the loud background music, it’s a little annoying
Great video!
Thank you Moose - sorry for the late reply!
Hello Roy:
More experimenting,
I had an Ice-cream soda (Mint Chocolate-Chip) with Doctor Pepper and Templeton 4 y.o. Rye as dessert tonight. Enjoyed the Rye note backing up the Mint. Finished the heel of the bottle. Dr. Pepper is a Spicy soft drink.
On a separate note, learned that the name Campbell in Gàidhlig is CAM=Crooked or Rye BUEL= Mouth COOL.
SLÁINTE
Mike
I didn't know that. Campbell = Rye-mouth!
Roy: One of my IRISH speaking friends in Ireland mentioned that in IRISH gaelic the name means Battle Steward
Interestingly Camron in the original Camshròn pronounced (CamRo nn) can be understood as Crooked Nose Cam=crooked Srón=Nose. When the two words are combined it causes an H=Hah sound to replace the S Haron (Camharon) Srón in both Irish and Scottish Gaelic means Nose Only the accent mark changes direction depending if it is IRISH or SCOTTISH Gaelic. Some of this needs further research since sometimes it is too easy.
Mike
Aqvavitae I completely agree with you. It's better to taste without knowing the brand. I find the results are very surprising. For me i like to cleanse my plate with a shot of tequila. I actually prefer my whisky with no water. I want to enjoy it in its natural form. Diluting it in my opinion ruins the flavor but Great Review.
Tequila huh? Wow, never tried that. Good one to keep in mind. Thanks Matt.
Thank you for sharing. You’ve quickly become one of my favorites. I’m mostly a bourbon whiskey drinker, but now I want to try more whisky because of you. Thank you!
These are Great Tips! Regarding Blending, I Blended a 1/2 Tasting Snifter pour of REDBREAST 12 Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey with a Tablespoon of LAPHROAIG 10 Whisky and got a dram which merged the best of both! At least to my palette!
SLÁINTE
Mike
Yes Mike it's great fun to 'play' with the whisky sometimes. Right now I have an experiment to make an imitation Brora ( I'm calling it "Brogus" 🙃 ) Where I've taken 20cl of old Clynelish and adding 1 or 2 teaspoons of old Caol Ila, it's waiting in the bottle, I'll let you know how it goes!
Yes Please do!!
Mike
All of your videos are great. Here are some ideas. Let's say one of my off the wall ideas causes you to have some other, different idea for a video... great.
Consider introducing your friends who helped sample and compare some of the whisky's in your earlier episode. There's a scene of whiskys being poured in multiple glasses around a table, with friends to give you their impressions...
Consider showing us your current whisky collection, or alternatively tell us your own favorites that you have tried, and/or your favorites where you purchased the bottle yourself (you could taste a sample yet possibly not have encountered a full bottle to purchase).
You could tell us of your travels, possibly to visit distilleries, or possibly visits to stores to find some new selections.
Comment about some of Ralfy's ideas. Example: To NAS or not to NAS in reviews or in your own purchases. Also note how he 'fixes' whisky that he feels has a bad taste... he sometimes has further aged whisky with his own free floating staves in a small barrel or container. He sometimes adds a small amount of great tasting whisky from the same distiller.
Ralfy talks about distillers he avoids due to his initial experience (Bowmore for example) but over the years the initial bias seems to go away. You could give your own similar experiences.
Tell us if you know of a 'sidekick' who might join you for reviews of whisky. Ralfy does it all himself, but other channels that include two good friends are also great.
You could give us your take on adding small amounts of water to whisky to 'open up' or improve a dram of whisky. What is your preference?
Irish, Bourbon, Rye, Canadian, Japanese, or other world Whiskys. Your thoughts?
Adding an ice cube on a hot summer day?
I'm interested to hear your views. Thanks!
Thanks Raster. One of my friends from the video you mention is dabbling with his own set-up for RUclips and you can find him here: ruclips.net/channel/UCEsRnzvFCjOIZptp1zAOpqQ
I have a lot of ideas, but I find making the time difficult with a young family and a real job. I'll still put together concepts and ideas I find interesting or useful but I hope folk are patient with me as my pace is a little slow.
On ice and water - I covered these in this video here 👍 Cheers!
These are all great suggestions. I've done nearly all of them. And about ice: when it's 90 degrees outside, whisky with ice is wonderful. So is whisky in a rocks glass, neat. I've also been taking notes for a few years now: docs.google.com/document/d/1KYlbLjQyADQskTHFoOPbRmqPqRvne_ceqniX4oEpF9k/edit?usp=sharing
Ok, I went and bought the exact same oatcakes that you showed... Well, they are certainly more salty and less bland than I expected. But they also managed to eliminate any bitterness I had from an IPA before the whisky. Interesting.
Very informative. Thanks for doing these Roy
Good video.
I often use Brandy glass for phenolic whiskies.
In fact, anyone who hasn't is missing many Laphroaig nuances.
Nice one Roy. Have been collecting/drinking whiskies for a few months now and I always learn something new from people like yourself and Ralfy etc. Keep up the good work. Slainte.
Excellent again Roy, love watching your videos, they get better and better each time. Keep them coming. Slainte!
Buddy you are getting the "bell"!
Excellent video. I did not know about the coffee or oat cakes. The glassware does make a huge difference.
Hey thanks for the positive feedback and taking the time to watch and comment! Cheers!
Roy:
I found Ralfy's review #711 of which you spoke. Look forward to viewing it later.Thanks for the tip.
SLÁINTE
Mike
Gachain yes, I realise I watched it on Patreon, released early. 👍
An honest man, drink it as you wish.,always best with good company. Excellent Video keep them coming
Cheers Willie!
Superb video Roy, love it keep up the great videos
Right back at you Jason 😉
I like his points: coffee which for me clouds my palate and nose for a long time, I prefer a nice Porter. It also works well for me as a palate cleanser interspersed and water too of course.
Also I tend to let things sit in a Glencairn with watch-glass cover often for over an hour nosing about every 15 minutes or so then proceed to the flyte-sipping. Often I find water is no longer essential, although it can be fun to experiment with a few drops at time with 5 or 10 minutes between drops.
Bottoms-up, Frankie
Realistic advising. Laphroig 10 yo is a good one to try over ice an ice cube to notice how it transforms.
Wonderful, very informative and really clearly put. I'll be trying all these things over the festive period.
I'll raise a glass to your enjoyment Sean. Welcome!
Not sure why this only now came up on my suggested videos but I enjoyed it.
If I added an 11th thing. It would be "change things up".. I was getting a little tired of whisky, so I swapped to some nice rums for about 4 or 5 month..
Now I drink everything really.. It's probably extremely bad for me.
If they made apple flavoured lighter fluid i'd probably give it a try.
Another RALFY caliber whiskey channel! How did I not discover this earlier? Thank you Sir!
Well done 👍 excellent video. Keep making more.
Thanks Jez! - keep being patient with me! 😉
I especially enjoy adding club soda and a big ice cube to even my most prized whiskies. I no, it's sacreligious, but I love it that way. Also, I love to mix a sweet whiskey with a peated whisky, 3 to 1 and add bitters with a big ice cube.
Thank you Roy. I've just watched this following a binge watch of your recycled reviews and it certainly adds to my overall intell / whisky journey. I've discerned so much from Ralfy since I re-discovered single malts, but it is always good to listen to another man's opinions. Slainte Mhath 👍.
This is an oldie Dave. But thank you 🙏 😊
Grand,that’s a double measured wisdom .
As different lengths fingers
serves us much better,
It’s more enriches watching different reviewers.
Keep those Tube “drams” coming🥃
Awesome vid Roy!
Fantastic video. And great comments. The whisky community all appreciating your love and respect for the product as well as guidance. Funnily the only one I don't naturally do is take notes. One more I like to do is create a solera. Obviously chucking in any old dregs will result in a mish-mash ( unless it's bourbons) but putting together the final inch of well matched whiskies into a bottle and topping up, sipping and repeating can be very enjoyable. A new flavour profile every time.
We have a whiskey bar at home. Hubby drinks his with water. I drink mine with a cube of home made ice. It melts slower than fridge made ice and the whiskey opens up as I drink it. He thinks I’m crazy. Thanks for proving me right 👏🏾
On nights I am tasting, I work to a pour 4 schedule ... not together however. I pour, nose and taste each dram individually - make my notes then move towards the next. Usually working from something light towards bold flavours. This still works for contrasting if you have good sensory recall - the difference between each Whisky is apparent without having them side by side. It has allowed me to appreciate complexities and aspects of various Whiskies that may have gone unnoticed as you say ... great way to work. This can also lead to "Malt Revelations" ...
I have been drinking scotch for the last 40 years and single malts for the last 25. But I have a problem. I got to have a drop of soda water. I've tried the most expensive water but it does not work for me! What do you think Roy?
Very entertaining and informative video.
A great and educational video. You just missed mentioning a knowledgeable and professional whiskey master, Horst Lüning. He is undoubtedly one of the bests in the business.
Thank you Pedram. Horst is a giant.
Finally an online voice in the malt whisky community points out the possibilities on ice. A nice pour over 3 large, good quality pieces and you get a slightly different experience each sip. Doesn't replace neat, but a fine way not only to enjoy but actually appreciate, also.
what an excellent video, thank you ! btw Foodquig is a good friend !
I noticed that your flavour wheel is swiss
Thank you for dropping by - I'm familiar with you and your friendship with Foodquig, a pleasure to have you drop by and comment!
Brilliant! Thank you for sharing - a bit cheeky nicking the oatcakes at the end...this video should be watched by anyone who drinks whiskey for whatever reason.
Thank you Mark, really cool feedback! 👌
Love your content, can't find the music track. Love DJ Quads.
Well said Roy, you communicate incredibly well with this “vid” (vid... dates me a little eh, couldn’t think what else to call it :-)
Great video. Hope you’ll get the inspiration and time to produce more of them. I’m not so crazy about the 1-2 hour long live videos. Cheers, Claus from Copenhagen, Denmark
I just blasted through all your videos and I'm subscribing! Give me more please and thank you.
+justin sauginas good timing, there’s one going out tonight! Thank you Justin 👍
I`m a newcomer to your site and find it enjoyable and informative in the most positive ways. Thank you, good Sir!
This is some, it teaches so much in 15 minutes that you couldn't learn in a life time of drinking whisky, especially when you though you knew it all. Thank you Brother
New sub here, getting a whisky education. Could you tell me the brand name of the water glass you're using?
I agree about the rocks glass and a little ice for just enjoying good whiskey! I think it’s interesting how the flavor changes as the ice slowly melts and changes the dilution.
Wonderful videos on my new hobby....thank you!
This was great. Thank you for your advice and wisdom.
And thank you Terry for the nice comment!
Excellent Whisky Evangelism - THANKS!!
Thanks Jason! 😊
Great video Roy! Thanks!
New to your channel and LOVING it! Looking forward to many more videos to come! Cheers...
Thank you for the nice words and taking the time! You're very welcome.
omg ardbeg with a big ass ice cube is tasting wonderful right now. it's like drinking barbecue.
Good man! (Try it later without the ice too!) Thanks for watching!
strong coffee before a flight of whisky? there goes my ulcer...
Wow, I'm the 55th comment. The people love you. Some great tips there. My big tip is simply enjoy it if you do enjoy it. It's not compulsory to like whisky. Some people bend over hoops to like wine and whisky like it's part of finishing school. Whisky is an amazing and life enhancing drink though and your advice is top notch. Cheers. WelshToro
Welsh Toro ahhh Welsh. You swung by! Now I can sleep 😉 thanks fella y hasta próxima vez.
Talking of hasta proxima, I'm of to southern Spain around half term. Would love to meet up down there. Let me know when you go down there and maybe we can sort something out. (The missus will kill me)
Welsh Toro Death by missus is painful. Will DM you.
Welsh Toro ah you have DMs switched off. You can email me at whisky@aqvavitae.com
Will do.
No ice, just don't do it .. if you have a cold add fresh lemon juice + a tad of hot water
3 year old video..still fantastic information
is that "industrial hemp" behind/side you?
I really like the fact you love to share your Whisky, chap 😂
I really like the fact you're around to share it with!
Great suggestions, great ideas!