This is EXACTLY what turned me on to higher quality whisky in the first place my dear malt-mate! I used to be a half a bottle a day drinker... Jim Beam Devil's cut, sometimes more... johnny black too, but when I discovered heavily peated whisky, and other complex, deep, richly flavored whiskys, my desire to drink so much so quick diminished, and I became satisfied having a beer and a few drams on a drinking night, not drinking every night, and if I do have a stretch, a beer or three does the trick if it's not the night for whisky. This video meant a lot to me, because at my worst, after about 3/4ths of a bottle of black label in a night, which turned out badly, I quit for 5 months... and ever since, I've had a much deeeper appreciation for this art and hobby that we all love, and I've been far more cautious with that fine line between healthy fun and "self-medication". I'm forever wary now of my mental state before I partake, and if I'm not happy and positive, and I feel like I have stress, anxiety, or depression, I'll either skip the stuff entirely, or have a glass of wine, a good meal, and live to taste another day. You're a true gent man, thank you for the videos, I've only been a subscriber for about 4 days now, but I must have listened/watched to 30 or 40 videos already, I'm a programmer by trade, and I let these play in the background at work, I learn a lot, and it always gives me ideas as to what my next "luxury" purchase might be. Thanks, again... I just felt I couldn't refrain from posting on this one.
I read your comment like "a bit of good stuff will substitute lots of average stuff". But sorry, this is the wrong understanding of alcoholism. And if someone drinks half a bottle (350ml?) per day, I would say this is alcoholism. In my opinion alcoholism is not cured by drinking better stuff, it could get even worse if you buy more expensive whiskys. Someone who drinks half a bottle of whisky a day should think really hard about quitting to drink alcohol AT ALL, as it is not the taste that makes you drink half a bottle a day. You this much because you wanted the EFFECT of the alcohol, at least that's my guess. You watched Ralfy since 4 days when you commented. I wonder how long it has been since you drank less by then. How is it now? [Sorry, I thought it was important to say this, because many people saw and liked your comment.]
Ralfy, I've enjoyed every one of a few hundred of your vlogs, so far. This vlog moves me to make a first posting. As a fellow malt lover and eldest son of a deceased alcoholic (whose drink of choice was whiskey) I want to thank you for a sincere, well said, and powerful presentation. I plan to show this vlog to our daughter, someday. Know that you always have a friend, in NYC. Cheers!
I was a hardcore alcoholic for over a decade. I was lucky to be able to overcome it on my own. I didn't touch a single drop for four years because I became terrified of it. Somehow I came across Ralfy's reviews while surfing the web. His passion for whiskey was fascinating and infectious. For me, alcohol was only a means to an end; I was taught to plug your nose and pour it down your throat. Ralfy showed me that alcohol can be enjoyed for a different reason. I now enjoy just a dram of quality whiskey now and then, especially while watching Ralfy review it. So thank-you Ralfy, for helping me to better understand whiskey and how to enjoy it responsibly.
Ralfy, thank you for taking the time to seriously comment on the dangers of alcohol abuse and not merely pay lip-service to it. Coming from a well respected and experienced malt lover such as yourself carries a lot of weight. The right words by the right person at the right time can save a life.
I like to come back to this video from time to time. Not just to remind me of the dangers of alcoholism, but to also remind me about the positive moments of enjoying a nice drink responsibly (as you stated nicely Ralfy). My oldest uncle is recovering from advanced staged liver cancer. He drank a lot during his youth. Mostly beer but nonetheless. He went through radiation to shrink the tumor, enough for removal. Fortunately he quit and hasn't touched a drop in months. He has also become an important reminder as well for me.
Good video! People do sometimes confuse the fact that alcohol, like smoking, is legalised with the idea that these things are harmless, and alcohol and tobacco companies often intentionally do very little to sort out this confusion. Much as whisky companies like to constantly portray and talk about the "good times" side of whisky, that's not the only side that there is, and I've yet to talk to anyone who ever planned to be an alcoholic or got a free detox program from their whiskymaker, or their pub, of choice. When everything's wonderful, everyone smiles with you, but when it goes wrong, it's all about individual responsibility and you're on your own - and many of those same people don't want to worry about you then because "you've got a problem and you're bad for business".
This is by far the best video on alcohol awareness I have ever seen. I agree with your ideas 100 %. Thank you for tackling such issue without being melodramatic or alarmist.
Thank you for this video ralfy. I'm sober over 2 years now and I am guilty of abusing alcohol for probably 10 years. My life really suffered because of my lack of control. I still enjoy learning about scotch from your videos, but I know deep down that I can never drink again. Thank you for discussing the taboo, it's important.
Excellent job, my friend. I used to be a prettyadvanced home-brewer, cultured my own yeast, had two refrigerators, one for serving and one for lagering, yada yada yada. One night I had a party and a friend came over and got quite tossed on my latest creation. I was worried until I saw him on Monday... I showed bad judgement in letting him drive home because I was a bit wobbly myself. All worked out OK but I served no more of my home-brew at parties. Point being that as a reviewer you could be seen as facilitating or at least condoning alcohol consumption, so I highly respect you taking the time and pointing out the dangers. That said, I look forward to the next whisky review. We always enjoy and respect your opinions, Ralfy, this one included... Thanks!
Coming out of the madness that was 2020 and only really discovering your channel through Clive's recent experimentation, this video touched me. For me, the greatest danger is when we replace the experiences of life with the experience of drinking. Good alcohol of all kinds can help lift a good experience (I quite enjoy milk stout beers; and I'll never turn down a good mead). But when we use it as the experience itself is when we start to lose contact. Experience the whisky for what it is, take the nose, appreciate it. But the moment isn't just the alcohol, it's the whole experience; and losing sight of that is when we start stepping off the path. Thank you.
Ralfy, I'm a licensed professional counselor who's worked with chemical dependency and mental health issues for several years, and many in the field couldn't have said it near as eloquently. Wonderful that you address such an important issue, that many others in your situation would avoid. Funny, I had two drams tonight (3/4 oz), and would have loved a few more given the perfect late spring weather tonight. However, I knocked off at two, because as you said it's just too easy for it to sneak up on you especially when your drinking some of the finest whisky in the world. Cheers Ralfy!
Thank you for tackling such an important issue with your audience. As a medical doctor who has recently come to enjoy my quality malt moments I have often wondered about health issues relating to alcohol. This is still very much a topic which is avoided by many. How one approaches alcohol is really the fundamental question to be sincerely asked as well as taking note of one's daily consumption. Binge drinking is just as (if not even more) harmful to one's health than prolonged heavy drinking. Take care and thanks for your commendable review!
Thank you for addressing this fundamental problem for so many people. People who have problems with alcohol should simply not touch it. No shame in not drinking, only shame in continuing to drink when a person knows he/she has a problem.
I’m here in Lockdown. Long time watcher....I’m stuck in Nepal in in lockdown....been drinking with hindsight way too much. This is your best video mate. 👍
My father had alcohol problems, a great man but always had that demon. It has made me always aware of what and how much I am drinking. I have learnt in my life that I am someone who can drink A LOT in one sitting and not feel intoxicated and as you mentioned, that can be a problem. I do not drink every night, I only drink on Fridays and Saturdays normally. Your advice here has really made me more aware of drinking responsibly and affirmed what I already do to limit my drinking. I enjoy a nice whisky on a Friday after work or a JD and Cola ... but I know not to go over board.
A very good and informative video. All I'd like to add, if it hasn't been added by someone already, is that I've observed (and I'm sure many with me) that eccentric alcohol consumtion often sneaks up on people after holidays. When on holiday it's not unusual to have a few extra glasses of beer, wine or whisky, and that's normally absolutely fine. What are holidays for if not enjoyment and spoling yourself a little bit extra? It is however important to take note of our holiday behavior so we do not carry on the holiday drinking habit into our daily lives once we return from our days off. Drink sensibly and enjoy the whisky slowly - if nothing else you'll be able to afford even better spirits with a low/moderate consumption. :)
It’s fantastic that you decided to address this topic head-on. It really takes your channel to another, professional level and not mere infotainment. The problem with good quality alcoholic drinks, and especially high content drinks like whisky, is that consumption can grow insidiously until one realises that one is drinking to excess, regularly. Alcohol is like fire: a good servant, but a destructive master. We all need to treat it with wary respect.
Well done Ralfy. You prove once more that you're the best authority on whisky online. I find that when you feel you haven't had enough of your alcoholic beverage of choice, and you're ready to pour another, if you wait another half hour instead of pour, the alcohol catches up with you. A tip for binge drinkers. Cheers.
My father abused alcohol. I saw it first hand. I am a 51 year old man and I am not ashamed to say it made me cry. Knowing that there is that in my family, I am keenly aware of the dangers of alcohol abuse. I have seen it in my duties as a firefighter. I sincerely thank you for talking about this.
Ralfy, I enjoy your reviews but this one is the BEST. I have always appreciated fine spirits; however I have kept a healthy fear of developing substance dependence in me and I almost never have more than two drinks a day. Thank you for speaking from the heart and giving a wonderful public announcement!
Ralfy, I just started my whiskey journey about six months ago. I have watched a couple of your video's in the past but found this one today and I believe we all need to take heed of what you are saying in this video. Thank you so much for taking a stand and not worrying about what the whiskey community thinks of what you say. I just hit the subscribe button and look forward to all your new content as well as the older stuff. Thanks again for watching out for ALL of us.
Thanks Ralfy for this video. Your timing is amazing. I was just thinking about how much whisky I drink recently. I've started with a dram a week. Now it's about 12 drams a week. It's still not a lot but the increasing numbers got me thinking. I feel that there is so many great malts I have to try before they go away that there is no time to lose. It's time to reconsider a thing or two...
I love your shows and this was the best, as a lover of fine whisky I was falling into the trap of buying several single malts and trying them the same night, this video is great and makes us understand that though we indulge in one of humanities greatest creation (single malt) like the fire which separated us from the animals if left unchecked could burn down everything we built. PS. Finally got a bottle of Highland Park 12yrs and it brought tears to my eyes that so much greatness can be contained in so little a drop.
Thanks for taking the time to say it Ralfy mate. 100% agree with all that you brought up. Someone needed to say it and you did it well without patronising anyone. Bonnets off to you.
Wow, so I only just found your channel a week ago and I have to say, very pleased to see this video. You're also the first reviewer of alcohol that has ever told me to be responsible. My father brews beer so I've been around alcohol my entire life, and my father long before I ever started drinking made me understand the need to be responsible and reasonable. A very valuable lesson. So thanks Ralfy for taking the time to say what so many neglect.
I am not sure what brought this on, but I am glad it happened. Alcohol abuse can tear a community apart. And all too often we never want to talk about it. I have an uncle (now teetotal) who suffered with alcohol abuse, but fortunately was sensible enough to (with family support) seek the help he needed. Kudos to you for addressing this issue. I like to think we're all adult enough to be able to enjoy the odd glass of something nice without letting it get out of control. But as you correctly point out, it can sneak up on us. For this reason it is important that enjoying drink remains a social activity and not a solitary one. In groups we can look out for each other a bit more. This is why the death of traditional public houses and move to cheap supermarket driven "home drinking" en masse is a lot more dangerous than it first appears.
In a consumption driven culture, no one wants to promote moderation or personal responsibility because THAT might affect profits. I watched Ralfy's last blog on moderation and have used his "Shadow Bottle" concept. I didn't calibrate it, but I drew a line on the bottle about a third of the way up. If I reached a 1/3 of a bottle in a week, I knew I was overdoing it. @shelltune I completely agree that drinking alone can lead to over consumption. On the other hand, who wants to go out and spend money on cheaper whiskey or beer at a bar, when you have the good stuff at home.
Bars, with their outrageous markups on booze, contribute as well. I enjoy martini cocktails, however cannot abide paying $7 USD and up, then tip, at a pub. I can buy a whole bottle of good gin for under $20 and enjoy a perfectly made martini at home.
Ralfy. I've watched 40 or 50 of your videos, and thoroughly thoroughly enjoy them. You are not only very knowledgeable about, and love whisky, but this video shows you also have a great respect for it, and care about your viewers. Well done mate!
Fantastic vlog Ralfy! This is something I'm trying to convey to the people close to me. Personally I drink because I like the taste of what I Drink. But I'm afraid to say that the current environment in today's pubs (not just drinking at home) is that if you don't drink a lot then your not doing your part to support local pubs (I've seen it here in the Yorkshire a few time). I think there is an underlying problem facing this country with alcohol abuse that has not been addressed and is really starting to cause problems. I just turned 30 and have been amazed at the amount of my peers who will happily spend upwards of £80 on a Friday just on drink for themselves. Where as I usually spend £20 on both myself and my Girlfriend for the whole night.
Wow. Again, you are the best source for education about alcoholic beverages from ALL directions. Your honesty is refreshing in an internet full of shills. Thank you, and bless you for your good works.
Great advise, ralfy you're a great human being. My uncle died because of alcohol abuse, more than one bottle a day as you say. Great review maybe the best. He never listened anybody, i think education in that sense is the key to the problem.
a very good speech about a big problem in our society,the whisky distillers avoid to speak about that because this can maybe affect the sales in a bad manner. I like very much to listen the wonderful scottish dialect.
Thanks for breaking the taboo, Ralfy. I agree with you when you say that you shouldn't drink when you are sad. It doesn't work. You only get sadder and you wake up with a headache. Drink to enhance the moment, when you are relaxed and enjoying the experience. On average I only drink about every other night or so, but when I do, I ask myself: why do I pour a glass? Do i do it because I am sad or feel the need to relax? Do I do it 'just because?' Or do I pour a glass because I am looking for a taste experience? Only if it is te latter do I actually pour a dram and almost never more than the one per night. The more you drink the less you taste anyway, and whisky is far too expensive to let go to waste. It can become so easy to drink out of habit. But addictions grow out of habits and habits grow out of mindless behaviour and repetition.
Thanks again Ralfy, what an excellent and responsible video tackling a tough topic, in a measured and appropriate way. At the end of the day, we all win (including whisky!). Perhaps a suggest to all of us could be to setup a simple drinking rule of thumb, much like you mentioned in your video. 1. One night on, one night off 2. Set yourself a limit on the number of malt moments you'll have in an evening.
Have watched hundreds of your reviews and enjoyed every one immensely, I cannot believe I missed this one! Fantastic episode... you are the man; the real connoisseur
Thank you Ralphy. Such a big amount of knowledge in one video. Glad there are some people like you, not following what medias and cultural bias are telling them but instead go on seeking the truth. You are pride to the humankind on many aspects.
This is an extremely well-paced and thoughtful reflection, Ralfy. I am certainly not alone in expressing my great thanks for your consideration of this topic, and its importance for all who choose to drink. I am very grateful for the advice and perspective.
Great video Ralfy. A very important issue honestly addressed. I have personally found that drinking good quality spirits has given me much more respect for not only the processes behind making these beautiful creations but also for the amount of alcohol I consume. I now have much more enjoyable nights drinking 3 or 4 drams with friends over good conversation than I used to guzzling beer and low quality spirits & mixers like they were going out of fashion (I'm also over 30 now so the hangovers are enough of a turn-off in themselves)! This also means I spend less on alcohol overall, even though a good quality single malt costs at least twice the price of a standard bottle of blended whisky in the UK. I would emphasis the point that days off are important too, two or three a week are recommended. I know this may be obvious to some people but as Ralfy says, it can easily creep up on you if you're not careful. Keep up the good work as always.
I have had issues with alcohol, my brothers have, my relatives have, and it's still a problem. For me it has been used for the majority of my years consuming primarily whiskey and beer in moderation of 4-5 small portions across several hours maybe twice a month. Then I started drinking more, bit by bit, until I was consuming up to 750 ml bottles Friday and Saturday night. It cost me a lot of money, productive time, some of my health presumably, and created a lot of problems in my relationships. Thankfully, I've gotten better now, and am down to less than a quarter of a bottle of whiskey over 3 days a week and am still reducing that portion. I appreciate you talking about the issue of alcohol abuse. Happy hunting.
Excellent and important message sir. Having come from a home with an alcoholic father and now some siblings, I know the horrors of alcohol abuse first hand.
Well said Ralfy! Creep up is exactly what it will do -- unless we are truly vigilant. I just took a three month time-out. And while I'm not the whisky media, I too have been talking about the issue, most recently in my review of Glenmorangie Extremely Rare.
Well thought out and said! You, sir, are a man of class and taste! I practice everything you have mentioned... Always have, and always will! Thank you for doing this episode!
Thanx for This, I have always wanted get into malts but b/c I come from a family with alcoholic history I have been Dry. However; I am encouraged by your videos and especially this Ralfy PSA to not fear Malts but to Respect them. Thank You for caring enough for the Whiskey Community to address a serious subject.
Beautiful video and very well needed and put. Thank you for your service to humanity, and thank you for showing the line between appreciation and addiction.
Just a terrific commentary and perspective on this subject Ralfy. I agree with you 1000%. Cheers to you for having the balls to talk frankly about this considering your passion - whisky.
Here, here Ralfy! Thoughtful and well said. I've recently discovered Scotch, and like all new interests I find myself mildly obsessed with knowing as much as possible about the subject. In this case, tasting different whiskies and developing a palette capable of nosing and tasting the myriad notes within each whisky. But it's been two months since I began my Scotch journey and this video served me well today. I haven't lost control and don't plan too. But hearing your thoughts helps me to know that this hobby/interest can be enjoyed responsibly. Sláinte!
Love this video. I find the better a whisky is, the longer a single glass will last. A single malt I really enjoy will take me nearly an hour to drink and enjoy from a small glencairn portion! A simple blended whisky, 15-20 minutes depending out of a small glencairn portion.
It’s certainly very important and I love the fact that the major liquor-related channels on RUclips are talking about alcohol awareness. The information that people such as Ralfy, The Whisky Vault etc have brought up truly have (in a positive way) influenced the alcohol consumption on many on their viewers including me.
Thank you for your thoughts on this matter, Ralfy. I've promised myself no more than a bottle a month, and it seems like a good way to track drinking for me. Yours is a great contribution to the art of whiskey!
Well said again, Ralfy! I work for a company whose facebook page frequently features seemingly jokey posts about abusing whisky and alcohol- which disappoints me, because as retailers of fine whisky, we should be sending out exactly the opposite message. I hope everyone appreciates you putting these points across in a non-self-righteous and light-hearted way. I do.
Excellent video. I limit my drinking to twice a week, with no more than 4-5 standard pours each time. Those are consumed over the course of an evening (4-6 hours) and I always eat first and have a bottle of water to sip on in between.
This is a great video. From my perspective, this problem is more pervasive in the craft beer community where over-consuming is still not really seen as a problem. I think endemic to both scenes is the idea that one can't be an abuser of quality alcohol products. As you say, it's easy to go from a nice dram or pint per night to a regular habit. Personally, I prefer to alternate dry days just to ensure I'm in control. The worst thing is to drink without thinking about it; it's the first step to habitual drinking and it's a waste of a quality product.
Ralfy, I've been on youtube for years, and I've watched many videos, but I've never "liked" one before... until today. I'm just getting into whisky, and my friend recommended your channel to me. I want to say thank you for the video! Not enough people are saying this. I enjoy the reviews! Keep it up, and cheers!
thank you for the topic, I lost my brother to alcoholism about 6 months ago.. I myself have been an excessive drinker until I started learning how to enjoy whiskey instead of just downing it.
I realize this is old, but let me just say thank you Ralfy. Whisky(bourbon first, than malt) began for me as a neat hobby that I got into about 12 years ago. Because good whisk(e)y is expensive the sipping nature and the fact that I didn't drink much during the week made it appealing. I could buy a bottle and many lasted me years because of the casual nature of it all. Eventually about three or four years ago a single whiskey per night became a habit. Then a double became a habit every night. You can see where all of this is going. My not-to-expensive weekend frisson became an expensive nightly habit. Whisky also stopped being fun in the hobby sense of it all. Well, I am happy to say that thanks to your other videos I have recaptured the fun and resolved to take it a lot easier. My mother is an alcoholic. My best friend's dad died when we were only 22 by literally drinking himself to death. He fell off the wagon after twelve years of cold turkey sobriety due to a failed marriage. In four years he went from a partner at an engineering firm to dead in a homeless shelter. I needed(presently) to recall the danger of alcoholism that made me moderate in my younger days, especially now that I have a "wee bairn" of my own. So thank you Ralfy for reinvigorating my curiosity at curating a good collection and appreciating whisky, while reembracing the moderation that I lost as long days at work and the day to day malaise of life took a toll. You're a treasure gent. Cheers!
after browsing through the comments i must say i disagree strongly ,that you should "never drink alone".drinking with company leads to much higher consumption than drinking alone. to clarify:i mean as a whisky drinker/fan/anorak.if i drink at home (in the company of my GF) to explore a whisky i know how much i want to drink on that evening and i know how many drams i will have(mostly 1 dram, 3 or 4 times a week).if you are in a Bar with friends all in good mood you will drink unconsciously.you will concentrate on the conversations and the fun and drink without noticing it.and THAT is the most likely road to addiction.when you drink alcohol like its nothing to think about. after all how many times have you heard your friends say" ah comeon dont go yet.lets have another pint".and how many times have you given in to the herd?
Unfortunately, other people are also very good in pushing you to drink. When in company at a bar, people will order beer for you without asking. Skipping a round is frowned upon. Once, I'd had two (strong) beers at an office party. The party moved to a bar, and I thought "well I'd better pace myself" and ordered a coke. Immediately someone asked "DON'T YOU DRINK?!" like it was some cardinal sin to order something non-alcoholic and I had to defend myself for it :/
@@piderman871 i once had a person who was so damn alcoholic call my trauma with my alcoholic uncle a phobia. He deadass had to justify and call disliking alcoholisms affect on people a phobia (an irrational fear) cus he was so far up his own ass in denial. As if drunk people havent hurt people around them before... Ngl it hurt so fucking much and it still does, after that i feel less safe with anyone irl who says they like alcohol. Its thanks to people like ralfy that im able to feel less scared, not thanks to people like him
I was going down this path, a bottle of everclear every 2 to 3 days or so, I woke up one day not knowing what day or week it was and looked at my self and said "This isn't how I want to die, alone and drunk" so i'm sober now and enjoy a fine dram of Whiskey or Bourbon every now and then. Great video as all ways ralfy, Thank you sir.
Oh the wisdom of one wise man who hath the courage of a thousand men. Don't remember where I read that, but my friend you had the courage and fortitude to broach a subject that many dare not. I personally have taken your advice about how to enjoy single malt whisky to avoid the pitfalls. I have 1-2 drams per day at home, after dinner and while working on my schoolwork as I am pursuing a bachelors and then masters degree. I sip I smell I taste and I bother no one. I banter about my collection to old friends on Facebook. All the people I have spoken or corresponded with since my single malt journey savor the dram rather than besmirch it with out respect to the product the pride of the distillery communities. Springbank comes to mind in your visit you illustrated the craftsmanship and effort they place into the finished product. Part of the reason I enjoy single malt scotch so much is that for the most part the people that partake in it tend to be more in tune with the finer aspects of life and they appreciate the whole spectacle of good conversation, good drink, cigars for those who smoke, but most importantly everyone has a say and to wit, I have not witnessed any antagonistic behavior so common with people who don't have personal control. Undoubtedly I can see where problems could arise, yet starting out from a position of knowledge and having someone like you Ralfy willing to point out to your audience that while single malt scotch is fun and an enjoyable pursuit making the conscious decision to control the alcohol rather than it controls you is far more important that one maintains that perspective. Thanks for the video, it was very good to see and hear the message. Mike Maryland, USA
This is why i subscribed you. I don't get to see many of your vids, 'cause they tempt me to get whisky more often, and that is simply not possible. But you have something else to show beyond the spirits. You know honour and self-control, wich is a lot more valuable. I have a 12 Year Old Chivas Reagal waiting for me in my bedroom, and i have no rush to open it, 'cause the time to do so will come. Thanks for remindind us all how important moderation is.
Really great ralfy .I'm someone who has a wee dram for the good things in life .one or two. As I know how you can go down the slippery slope. I'm lucky I have good will power. But learnt a lot from your vlog. And gonna be more proactive and keep a diary .thanks so much
It usually takes me 3 to 4 weeks to finish a bottle of whisky but when I get a bottle of glenfarclas 105 1 litre it usually takes me 2 months to finish it. So I think it can also depend on the whisky you are drinking.
Hi Ralfy. Thinking of your heart-felt measures here in this Taboo vlog, responsible & quite admirable as a note of bravery can go a long way to those of whom have yet to tame their drinking legs and raw emotions. What tends to happen more often than not is that "our body's tell us a lot" and with common sense if we listen the brain will followI Maybe a pot of tea a java w/a wonderful cigar (even a walk in the park & dinner w/your babe) Some nights a SM/or a blend will just not do the trick. & to push it I find we can easily find ourselves dipping into deeper waters.
I watch your reviews for knowledge on specific Scotches, and appreciate your other comments for sure. I even went to research Bonniville! I came over tonight from the Whiskey Vault, who tagged you for this episode. Thanks for airing this program!
Me too! I also enjoyed the video with some great suggestions for self-moderating or possibly helping a mate out who is in a tailspin with alcohol. Great as usual Ralphy!
Fair call Ralfy ! I didn't get to the end but I realise I have to caution a friend towards the end of a tasting night. If ever you wish to advise how to avoid hangovers look me up- I have been advising others for years. I am the guinea pig and have soaked up the smarts of others. Best tip is not to get too over done, but after that smarts can save your body. We always use tiny glasses and always finish with a few waters. call by next time you are in town. Thanks for your hard work J.
Ralfy - Thank you for posting this very good advice. Glad to have run into it. Being very cognizant of the facts of what we should be be minding while having a drink is a might helpful. Thanks for your insight.
Hey Ralfy, great video. But, that bottle you referenced, assuming it is a regular 750 ml is THIRTY (not 20) units of alcohol (under the British units system). So you had it right the first time. Under the British system 25 ml of 80 proof whisky is 1 unit. In America a "standard drink" is considered 50 ml/1.5 oz. FYI.
I am an alcoholic. An active one, unfortunately. Everything you said is 100% true. I was like you, until 2007-2008. Dozens of malts and bourbon, a dram or two most nights plus the occasional Manhattan. I could afford this, as a litigation attorney for the worlds biggest bank. Then 2008 hit and I lost a long time girlfriend to cancer and in 2009 got a new boss (a psycho). I began stopping off at a watering hole on the way home alone, combined with the hugely increased stress at work, it became 3-4 Manhattans then a few doubles at home. Then I had enough at work and quit, deciding to take a few months vacation. On the way home I bought two 1.75 liters of the cheapest bourbon they had and proceeded to get hammered. It lasted from April 2011 to April 2012. Then I admitted to friends what I had known for awhile. But I wasn't really serious on quitting for another year. The initial go at quitting is ongoing and lasted another year, ending with a month-long binder in April. I never totally quit but went from a bottle a day to half or less on average.
The legal profession has a very high rate of alcohol abuse. The stress and competitiveness of profession all feed into it. I've seen many a promising career derailed by John Barleycorn and Demon Rum. The best way to fight is to take care of the ones you love and maintain all your friendships. I really think loneliness contributes more to alcoholism than anything else.
Good on you for slowing down. Keep it up! And most importantly: don't keep it to yourself, communicate with your friends about your progress and even your failings. You're not an island.
Well said Ralfy! This is why I come to Ralfy.com for whisky advice. You give it to us honestly and straight from the heart. I'm currently on an alcohol sabbatical. I have chronic back pain, and will have a glass of wine with lunch, and a small whisky or two before bed. This works better than the prescription drugs my doctor has prescribed for me, and with less harmful side effects. That said, I'm on a ten day break from alcohol. All the best to you! Sincerely, Ossie
I've been following your reviews for a while but I'm glad you've addressed this. Bravo to you. So many other reviewers would simply ignore this as a serious issue. Can't wait for some more Australian whisky reviews!!
This is EXACTLY what turned me on to higher quality whisky in the first place my dear malt-mate! I used to be a half a bottle a day drinker... Jim Beam Devil's cut, sometimes more... johnny black too, but when I discovered heavily peated whisky, and other complex, deep, richly flavored whiskys, my desire to drink so much so quick diminished, and I became satisfied having a beer and a few drams on a drinking night, not drinking every night, and if I do have a stretch, a beer or three does the trick if it's not the night for whisky. This video meant a lot to me, because at my worst, after about 3/4ths of a bottle of black label in a night, which turned out badly, I quit for 5 months... and ever since, I've had a much deeeper appreciation for this art and hobby that we all love, and I've been far more cautious with that fine line between healthy fun and "self-medication". I'm forever wary now of my mental state before I partake, and if I'm not happy and positive, and I feel like I have stress, anxiety, or depression, I'll either skip the stuff entirely, or have a glass of wine, a good meal, and live to taste another day.
You're a true gent man, thank you for the videos, I've only been a subscriber for about 4 days now, but I must have listened/watched to 30 or 40 videos already, I'm a programmer by trade, and I let these play in the background at work, I learn a lot, and it always gives me ideas as to what my next "luxury" purchase might be.
Thanks, again... I just felt I couldn't refrain from posting on this one.
I read your comment like "a bit of good stuff will substitute lots of average stuff". But sorry, this is the wrong understanding of alcoholism. And if someone drinks half a bottle (350ml?) per day, I would say this is alcoholism. In my opinion alcoholism is not cured by drinking better stuff, it could get even worse if you buy more expensive whiskys. Someone who drinks half a bottle of whisky a day should think really hard about quitting to drink alcohol AT ALL, as it is not the taste that makes you drink half a bottle a day. You this much because you wanted the EFFECT of the alcohol, at least that's my guess.
You watched Ralfy since 4 days when you commented. I wonder how long it has been since you drank less by then. How is it now?
[Sorry, I thought it was important to say this, because many people saw and liked your comment.]
Ralfy,
I've enjoyed every one of a few hundred of your vlogs, so far. This vlog moves me to make a first posting. As a fellow malt lover and eldest son of a deceased alcoholic (whose drink of choice was whiskey) I want to thank you for a sincere, well said, and powerful presentation. I plan to show this vlog to our daughter, someday. Know that you always have a friend, in NYC. Cheers!
. . . happy to help with your malt-moment !
I was a hardcore alcoholic for over a decade. I was lucky to be able to overcome it on my own. I didn't touch a single drop for four years because I became terrified of it. Somehow I came across Ralfy's reviews while surfing the web. His passion for whiskey was fascinating and infectious. For me, alcohol was only a means to an end; I was taught to plug your nose and pour it down your throat. Ralfy showed me that alcohol can be enjoyed for a different reason. I now enjoy just a dram of quality whiskey now and then, especially while watching Ralfy review it. So thank-you Ralfy, for helping me to better understand whiskey and how to enjoy it responsibly.
Ralfy, thank you for taking the time to seriously comment on the dangers of alcohol abuse and not merely pay lip-service to it. Coming from a well respected and experienced malt lover such as yourself carries a lot of weight. The right words by the right person at the right time can save a life.
100 out of 100 and that's a Malt Mark.
I like to come back to this video from time to time. Not just to remind me of the dangers of alcoholism, but to also remind me about the positive moments of enjoying a nice drink responsibly (as you stated nicely Ralfy).
My oldest uncle is recovering from advanced staged liver cancer. He drank a lot during his youth. Mostly beer but nonetheless. He went through radiation to shrink the tumor, enough for removal. Fortunately he quit and hasn't touched a drop in months. He has also become an important reminder as well for me.
Good video! People do sometimes confuse the fact that alcohol, like smoking, is legalised with the idea that these things are harmless, and alcohol and tobacco companies often intentionally do very little to sort out this confusion. Much as whisky companies like to constantly portray and talk about the "good times" side of whisky, that's not the only side that there is, and I've yet to talk to anyone who ever planned to be an alcoholic or got a free detox program from their whiskymaker, or their pub, of choice. When everything's wonderful, everyone smiles with you, but when it goes wrong, it's all about individual responsibility and you're on your own - and many of those same people don't want to worry about you then because "you've got a problem and you're bad for business".
This is by far the best video on alcohol awareness I have ever seen. I agree with your ideas 100 %. Thank you for tackling such issue without being melodramatic or alarmist.
One thing to add is that just because you pour a glass of beer/wine/whisky doesn't mean you have to finish it.
Great vid thanks for all the thoughts hopefully people will take it to heart
Love Ralfy!
Thank you for this video ralfy. I'm sober over 2 years now and I am guilty of abusing alcohol for probably 10 years. My life really suffered because of my lack of control. I still enjoy learning about scotch from your videos, but I know deep down that I can never drink again. Thank you for discussing the taboo, it's important.
The great taboo.... another release of Ardbeg. I fell off my chair laughing. Good one, Ralfy!
How true you are.about.Ardbeg!
Excellent job, my friend. I used to be a prettyadvanced home-brewer, cultured my own yeast, had two refrigerators, one for serving and one for lagering, yada yada yada. One night I had a party and a friend came over and got quite tossed on my latest creation. I was worried until I saw him on Monday... I showed bad judgement in letting him drive home because I was a bit wobbly myself. All worked out OK but I served no more of my home-brew at parties. Point being that as a reviewer you could be seen as facilitating or at least condoning alcohol consumption, so I highly respect you taking the time and pointing out the dangers. That said, I look forward to the next whisky review. We always enjoy and respect your opinions, Ralfy, this one included... Thanks!
Coming out of the madness that was 2020 and only really discovering your channel through Clive's recent experimentation, this video touched me. For me, the greatest danger is when we replace the experiences of life with the experience of drinking. Good alcohol of all kinds can help lift a good experience (I quite enjoy milk stout beers; and I'll never turn down a good mead). But when we use it as the experience itself is when we start to lose contact. Experience the whisky for what it is, take the nose, appreciate it. But the moment isn't just the alcohol, it's the whole experience; and losing sight of that is when we start stepping off the path.
Thank you.
Ralfy,
I'm a licensed professional counselor who's worked with chemical dependency and mental health issues for several years, and many in the field couldn't have said it near as eloquently. Wonderful that you address such an important issue, that many others in your situation would avoid. Funny, I had two drams tonight (3/4 oz), and would have loved a few more given the perfect late spring weather tonight. However, I knocked off at two, because as you said it's just too easy for it to sneak up on you especially when your drinking some of the finest whisky in the world. Cheers Ralfy!
Thank you for tackling such an important issue with your audience. As a medical doctor who has recently come to enjoy my quality malt moments I have often wondered about health issues relating to alcohol. This is still very much a topic which is avoided by many. How one approaches alcohol is really the fundamental question to be sincerely asked as well as taking note of one's daily consumption. Binge drinking is just as (if not even more) harmful to one's health than prolonged heavy drinking. Take care and thanks for your commendable review!
Thank you for addressing this fundamental problem for so many people. People who have problems with alcohol should simply not touch it. No shame in not drinking, only shame in continuing to drink when a person knows he/she has a problem.
I’m here in Lockdown. Long time watcher....I’m stuck in Nepal in in lockdown....been drinking with hindsight way too much. This is your best video mate. 👍
My father had alcohol problems, a great man but always had that demon. It has made me always aware of what and how much I am drinking. I have learnt in my life that I am someone who can drink A LOT in one sitting and not feel intoxicated and as you mentioned, that can be a problem. I do not drink every night, I only drink on Fridays and Saturdays normally. Your advice here has really made me more aware of drinking responsibly and affirmed what I already do to limit my drinking. I enjoy a nice whisky on a Friday after work or a JD and Cola ... but I know not to go over board.
Bravo, Ralfy! What an excellent reminder for us all. Thanks for being one of the most transparent and level-headed whisky voices on the net!
A very good and informative video. All I'd like to add, if it hasn't been added by someone already, is that I've observed (and I'm sure many with me) that eccentric alcohol consumtion often sneaks up on people after holidays. When on holiday it's not unusual to have a few extra glasses of beer, wine or whisky, and that's normally absolutely fine. What are holidays for if not enjoyment and spoling yourself a little bit extra? It is however important to take note of our holiday behavior so we do not carry on the holiday drinking habit into our daily lives once we return from our days off. Drink sensibly and enjoy the whisky slowly - if nothing else you'll be able to afford even better spirits with a low/moderate consumption. :)
I remember a quote you once said, "Drink to enjoy, don't enjoy to drink".
It’s fantastic that you decided to address this topic head-on.
It really takes your channel to another, professional level and not mere infotainment.
The problem with good quality alcoholic drinks, and especially high content drinks like whisky, is that consumption can grow insidiously until one realises that one is drinking to excess, regularly.
Alcohol is like fire: a good servant, but a destructive master.
We all need to treat it with wary respect.
Always good to see someone who is as well respected as you Ralfy talk about a subject that many people tip toe around.
Well done Ralfy. You prove once more that you're the best authority on whisky online. I find that when you feel you haven't had enough of your alcoholic beverage of choice, and you're ready to pour another, if you wait another half hour instead of pour, the alcohol catches up with you. A tip for binge drinkers. Cheers.
My father abused alcohol. I saw it first hand. I am a 51 year old man and I am not ashamed to say it made me cry. Knowing that there is that in my family, I am keenly aware of the dangers of alcohol abuse. I have seen it in my duties as a firefighter. I sincerely thank you for talking about this.
Ralfy, I enjoy your reviews but this one is the BEST. I have always appreciated fine spirits; however I have kept a healthy fear of developing substance dependence in me and I almost never have more than two drinks a day. Thank you for speaking from the heart and giving a wonderful public announcement!
Ralfy, I just started my whiskey journey about six months ago. I have watched a couple of your video's in the past but found this one today and I believe we all need to take heed of what you are saying in this video. Thank you so much for taking a stand and not worrying about what the whiskey community thinks of what you say. I just hit the subscribe button and look forward to all your new content as well as the older stuff. Thanks again for watching out for ALL of us.
Thanks Ralfy for this video. Your timing is amazing. I was just thinking about how much whisky I drink recently. I've started with a dram a week. Now it's about 12 drams a week. It's still not a lot but the increasing numbers got me thinking. I feel that there is so many great malts I have to try before they go away that there is no time to lose. It's time to reconsider a thing or two...
a bottle of whisky bought now will be drinkable in 100 years, so no hurry !
I love your shows and this was the best, as a lover of fine whisky I was falling into the trap of buying several single malts and trying them the same night, this video is great and makes us understand that though we indulge in one of humanities greatest creation (single malt) like the fire which separated us from the animals if left unchecked could burn down everything we built.
PS. Finally got a bottle of Highland Park 12yrs and it brought tears to my eyes that so much greatness can be contained in so little a drop.
This is brilliant...honest...& vital. This vlog should be 'required viewing' for every malster, at least once.
Thanks for taking the time to say it Ralfy mate. 100% agree with all that you brought up. Someone needed to say it and you did it well without patronising anyone. Bonnets off to you.
Wow, so I only just found your channel a week ago and I have to say, very pleased to see this video. You're also the first reviewer of alcohol that has ever told me to be responsible. My father brews beer so I've been around alcohol my entire life, and my father long before I ever started drinking made me understand the need to be responsible and reasonable. A very valuable lesson. So thanks Ralfy for taking the time to say what so many neglect.
I am not sure what brought this on, but I am glad it happened. Alcohol abuse can tear a community apart. And all too often we never want to talk about it. I have an uncle (now teetotal) who suffered with alcohol abuse, but fortunately was sensible enough to (with family support) seek the help he needed. Kudos to you for addressing this issue. I like to think we're all adult enough to be able to enjoy the odd glass of something nice without letting it get out of control. But as you correctly point out, it can sneak up on us. For this reason it is important that enjoying drink remains a social activity and not a solitary one. In groups we can look out for each other a bit more. This is why the death of traditional public houses and move to cheap supermarket driven "home drinking" en masse is a lot more dangerous than it first appears.
I totally agree with your views on Supermarket-fuel home drinking.
In a consumption driven culture, no one wants to promote moderation or personal responsibility because THAT might affect profits. I watched Ralfy's last blog on moderation and have used his "Shadow Bottle" concept. I didn't calibrate it, but I drew a line on the bottle about a third of the way up. If I reached a 1/3 of a bottle in a week, I knew I was overdoing it.
@shelltune I completely agree that drinking alone can lead to over consumption. On the other hand, who wants to go out and spend money on cheaper whiskey or beer at a bar, when you have the good stuff at home.
Bars, with their outrageous markups on booze, contribute as well. I enjoy martini cocktails, however cannot abide paying $7 USD and up, then tip, at a pub. I can buy a whole bottle of good gin for under $20 and enjoy a perfectly made martini at home.
Ralfy. I've watched 40 or 50 of your videos, and thoroughly thoroughly enjoy them. You are not only very knowledgeable about, and love whisky, but this video shows you also have a great respect for it, and care about your viewers. Well done mate!
Thanks, ralfy. Excellent message on a very serious and often overlooked subject.
Fantastic vlog Ralfy!
This is something I'm trying to convey to the people close to me.
Personally I drink because I like the taste of what I Drink. But I'm afraid to say that the current environment in today's pubs (not just drinking at home) is that if you don't drink a lot then your not doing your part to support local pubs (I've seen it here in the Yorkshire a few time).
I think there is an underlying problem facing this country with alcohol abuse that has not been addressed and is really starting to cause problems. I just turned 30 and have been amazed at the amount of my peers who will happily spend upwards of £80 on a Friday just on drink for themselves. Where as I usually spend £20 on both myself and my Girlfriend for the whole night.
Wow. Again, you are the best source for education about alcoholic beverages from ALL directions. Your honesty is refreshing in an internet full of shills. Thank you, and bless you for your good works.
Great advise, ralfy you're a great human being. My uncle died because of alcohol abuse, more than one bottle a day as you say. Great review maybe the best. He never listened anybody, i think education in that sense is the key to the problem.
a very good speech about a big problem in our society,the whisky distillers avoid to speak about that because this can maybe affect the sales in a bad manner.
I like very much to listen the wonderful scottish dialect.
Thanks for breaking the taboo, Ralfy. I agree with you when you say that you shouldn't drink when you are sad. It doesn't work. You only get sadder and you wake up with a headache. Drink to enhance the moment, when you are relaxed and enjoying the experience.
On average I only drink about every other night or so, but when I do, I ask myself: why do I pour a glass? Do i do it because I am sad or feel the need to relax? Do I do it 'just because?' Or do I pour a glass because I am looking for a taste experience? Only if it is te latter do I actually pour a dram and almost never more than the one per night. The more you drink the less you taste anyway, and whisky is far too expensive to let go to waste.
It can become so easy to drink out of habit. But addictions grow out of habits and habits grow out of mindless behaviour and repetition.
Thanks again Ralfy, what an excellent and responsible video tackling a tough topic, in a measured and appropriate way. At the end of the day, we all win (including whisky!).
Perhaps a suggest to all of us could be to setup a simple drinking rule of thumb, much like you mentioned in your video.
1. One night on, one night off
2. Set yourself a limit on the number of malt moments you'll have in an evening.
My first visit to your channel. It won't be the last. Good advice. Great presentation.
Great and true message, I only drink for flavor and do not like a "buzz". Thanks for another great piece of advice. Al
Have watched hundreds of your reviews and enjoyed every one immensely, I cannot believe I missed this one! Fantastic episode... you are the man; the real connoisseur
Thank you Ralphy. Such a big amount of knowledge in one video. Glad there are some people like you, not following what medias and cultural bias are telling them but instead go on seeking the truth. You are pride to the humankind on many aspects.
Nice to hear someone spelling it out so clearly and with those practical specifics with the bottle. Very helpful and nicely said.
Thank you for not being afraid of raising this topic!
This is an extremely well-paced and thoughtful reflection, Ralfy. I am certainly not alone in expressing my great thanks for your consideration of this topic, and its importance for all who choose to drink. I am very grateful for the advice and perspective.
Thank you Ralfy. Your advice here confirms my own practice. Thanks for the support.
Great video Ralfy. A very important issue honestly addressed.
I have personally found that drinking good quality spirits has given me much more respect for not only the processes behind making these beautiful creations but also for the amount of alcohol I consume. I now have much more enjoyable nights drinking 3 or 4 drams with friends over good conversation than I used to guzzling beer and low quality spirits & mixers like they were going out of fashion (I'm also over 30 now so the hangovers are enough of a turn-off in themselves)! This also means I spend less on alcohol overall, even though a good quality single malt costs at least twice the price of a standard bottle of blended whisky in the UK. I would emphasis the point that days off are important too, two or three a week are recommended.
I know this may be obvious to some people but as Ralfy says, it can easily creep up on you if you're not careful. Keep up the good work as always.
I have had issues with alcohol, my brothers have, my relatives have, and it's still a problem. For me it has been used for the majority of my years consuming primarily whiskey and beer in moderation of 4-5 small portions across several hours maybe twice a month. Then I started drinking more, bit by bit, until I was consuming up to 750 ml bottles Friday and Saturday night. It cost me a lot of money, productive time, some of my health presumably, and created a lot of problems in my relationships.
Thankfully, I've gotten better now, and am down to less than a quarter of a bottle of whiskey over 3 days a week and am still reducing that portion. I appreciate you talking about the issue of alcohol abuse. Happy hunting.
Cthulhu DeMighty . . . here to help with the journey malt-mate !
Excellent and important message sir. Having come from a home with an alcoholic father and now some siblings, I know the horrors of alcohol abuse first hand.
This was an amazing video, so well thought through! Thank you, Ralfy!
Well said Ralfy! Creep up is exactly what it will do -- unless we are truly vigilant. I just took a three month time-out. And while I'm not the whisky media, I too have been talking about the issue, most recently in my review of Glenmorangie Extremely Rare.
Well thought out and said! You, sir, are a man of class and taste! I practice everything you have mentioned... Always have, and always will! Thank you for doing this episode!
This video is exactly why Ralfystuff is my favorite channel on youtube, and why I follow it so religiously. Thanks Ralfy!!
Thanx for This, I have always wanted get into malts but b/c I come from a family with alcoholic history I have been Dry. However; I am encouraged by your videos and especially this Ralfy PSA to not fear Malts but to Respect them. Thank You for caring enough for the Whiskey Community to address a serious subject.
Beautiful video and very well needed and put. Thank you for your service to humanity, and thank you for showing the line between appreciation and addiction.
Well spoke, Ralfy. A serious matter discussed with insight and compassion. Keep up the good work!
Just a terrific commentary and perspective on this subject Ralfy. I agree with you 1000%. Cheers to you for having the balls to talk frankly about this considering your passion - whisky.
This video is so well done. Thanks for the advice. I watch this one over again every now and then just to remind myself to keep it quality.
Very good Ralfy, i respect you even more after watching this video. Thank you for your great work reviewing good whiskies. Cheers from Brazil!
Well done Ralfy. Always swimming against the current, well done sir.
Here, here Ralfy! Thoughtful and well said. I've recently discovered Scotch, and like all new interests I find myself mildly obsessed with knowing as much as possible about the subject. In this case, tasting different whiskies and developing a palette capable of nosing and tasting the myriad notes within each whisky. But it's been two months since I began my Scotch journey and this video served me well today. I haven't lost control and don't plan too. But hearing your thoughts helps me to know that this hobby/interest can be enjoyed responsibly. Sláinte!
Love this video. I find the better a whisky is, the longer a single glass will last. A single malt I really enjoy will take me nearly an hour to drink and enjoy from a small glencairn portion! A simple blended whisky, 15-20 minutes depending out of a small glencairn portion.
It’s certainly very important and I love the fact that the major liquor-related channels on RUclips are talking about alcohol awareness. The information that people such as Ralfy, The Whisky Vault etc have brought up truly have (in a positive way) influenced the alcohol consumption on many on their viewers including me.
Well put. Just one more reason why Ralfy is unmatched in whisk(e)y education and enjoyment.
Thank you for your thoughts on this matter, Ralfy. I've promised myself no more than a bottle a month, and it seems like a good way to track drinking for me. Yours is a great contribution to the art of whiskey!
Well said again, Ralfy! I work for a company whose facebook page frequently features seemingly jokey posts about abusing whisky and alcohol- which disappoints me, because as retailers of fine whisky, we should be sending out exactly the opposite message.
I hope everyone appreciates you putting these points across in a non-self-righteous and light-hearted way. I do.
Also, a cup of tea and/or a tonic water are my fave 'dry' drinks too!
Excellent video. I limit my drinking to twice a week, with no more than 4-5 standard pours each time. Those are consumed over the course of an evening (4-6 hours) and I always eat first and have a bottle of water to sip on in between.
Thank you Ralfy for such informative and important reminder. May we all drink because we are happy not because we are sad.
This is a great video. From my perspective, this problem is more pervasive in the craft beer community where over-consuming is still not really seen as a problem. I think endemic to both scenes is the idea that one can't be an abuser of quality alcohol products. As you say, it's easy to go from a nice dram or pint per night to a regular habit. Personally, I prefer to alternate dry days just to ensure I'm in control. The worst thing is to drink without thinking about it; it's the first step to habitual drinking and it's a waste of a quality product.
Ralfy, I've been on youtube for years, and I've watched many videos, but I've never "liked" one before... until today. I'm just getting into whisky, and my friend recommended your channel to me. I want to say thank you for the video! Not enough people are saying this. I enjoy the reviews! Keep it up, and cheers!
thank you for the topic, I lost my brother to alcoholism about 6 months ago.. I myself have been an excessive drinker until I started learning how to enjoy whiskey instead of just downing it.
you are correct about the sudden stopping; my brother died sober, but his body couldn't handle it
I realize this is old, but let me just say thank you Ralfy. Whisky(bourbon first, than malt) began for me as a neat hobby that I got into about 12 years ago. Because good whisk(e)y is expensive the sipping nature and the fact that I didn't drink much during the week made it appealing. I could buy a bottle and many lasted me years because of the casual nature of it all. Eventually about three or four years ago a single whiskey per night became a habit. Then a double became a habit every night. You can see where all of this is going. My not-to-expensive weekend frisson became an expensive nightly habit. Whisky also stopped being fun in the hobby sense of it all. Well, I am happy to say that thanks to your other videos I have recaptured the fun and resolved to take it a lot easier.
My mother is an alcoholic. My best friend's dad died when we were only 22 by literally drinking himself to death. He fell off the wagon after twelve years of cold turkey sobriety due to a failed marriage. In four years he went from a partner at an engineering firm to dead in a homeless shelter. I needed(presently) to recall the danger of alcoholism that made me moderate in my younger days, especially now that I have a "wee bairn" of my own.
So thank you Ralfy for reinvigorating my curiosity at curating a good collection and appreciating whisky, while reembracing the moderation that I lost as long days at work and the day to day malaise of life took a toll. You're a treasure gent. Cheers!
. . . happy to help with the malt-moments !
after browsing through the comments i must say i disagree strongly ,that you should "never drink alone".drinking with company leads to much higher consumption than drinking alone. to clarify:i mean as a whisky drinker/fan/anorak.if i drink at home (in the company of my GF) to explore a whisky i know how much i want to drink on that evening and i know how many drams i will have(mostly 1 dram, 3 or 4 times a week).if you are in a Bar with friends all in good mood you will drink unconsciously.you will concentrate on the conversations and the fun and drink without noticing it.and THAT is the most likely road to addiction.when you drink alcohol like its nothing to think about.
after all how many times have you heard your friends say" ah comeon dont go yet.lets have another pint".and how many times have you given in to the herd?
Unfortunately, other people are also very good in pushing you to drink. When in company at a bar, people will order beer for you without asking. Skipping a round is frowned upon. Once, I'd had two (strong) beers at an office party. The party moved to a bar, and I thought "well I'd better pace myself" and ordered a coke. Immediately someone asked "DON'T YOU DRINK?!" like it was some cardinal sin to order something non-alcoholic and I had to defend myself for it :/
@@piderman871 i once had a person who was so damn alcoholic call my trauma with my alcoholic uncle a phobia.
He deadass had to justify and call disliking alcoholisms affect on people a phobia (an irrational fear) cus he was so far up his own ass in denial. As if drunk people havent hurt people around them before...
Ngl it hurt so fucking much and it still does, after that i feel less safe with anyone irl who says they like alcohol.
Its thanks to people like ralfy that im able to feel less scared, not thanks to people like him
I was going down this path, a bottle of everclear every 2 to 3 days or so, I woke up one day not knowing what day or week it was and looked at my self and said "This isn't how I want to die, alone and drunk" so i'm sober now and enjoy a fine dram of Whiskey or Bourbon every now and then. Great video as all ways ralfy, Thank you sir.
Excellent post. Self awareness of our indulgences can be hard.
Oh the wisdom of one wise man who hath the courage of a thousand men. Don't remember where I read that, but my friend you had the courage and fortitude to broach a subject that many dare not. I personally have taken your advice about how to enjoy single malt whisky to avoid the pitfalls. I have 1-2 drams per day at home, after dinner and while working on my schoolwork as I am pursuing a bachelors and then masters degree. I sip I smell I taste and I bother no one. I banter about my collection to old friends on Facebook. All the people I have spoken or corresponded with since my single malt journey savor the dram rather than besmirch it with out respect to the product the pride of the distillery communities. Springbank comes to mind in your visit you illustrated the craftsmanship and effort they place into the finished product. Part of the reason I enjoy single malt scotch so much is that for the most part the people that partake in it tend to be more in tune with the finer aspects of life and they appreciate the whole spectacle of good conversation, good drink, cigars for those who smoke, but most importantly everyone has a say and to wit, I have not witnessed any antagonistic behavior so common with people who don't have personal control. Undoubtedly I can see where problems could arise, yet starting out from a position of knowledge and having someone like you Ralfy willing to point out to your audience that while single malt scotch is fun and an enjoyable pursuit making the conscious decision to control the alcohol rather than it controls you is far more important that one maintains that perspective. Thanks for the video, it was very good to see and hear the message.
Mike
Maryland, USA
This is why i subscribed you.
I don't get to see many of your vids, 'cause they tempt me to get whisky more often, and that is simply not possible.
But you have something else to show beyond the spirits. You know honour and self-control, wich is a lot more valuable.
I have a 12 Year Old Chivas Reagal waiting for me in my bedroom, and i have no rush to open it, 'cause the time to do so will come.
Thanks for remindind us all how important moderation is.
Really sound advice Ralfy. This episode should be life mandatory viewing for anyone thinking about drinking alcohol. Thanks for posting this :-)
Great words of wisdom there Ralfy, thanks for taking the time to care about your viewers.
Really great ralfy .I'm someone who has a wee dram for the good things in life .one or two. As I know how you can go down the slippery slope. I'm lucky I have good will power. But learnt a lot from your vlog. And gonna be more proactive and keep a diary .thanks so much
Great job traversing this subject. It is nice reminder to keep an eye on ourselves.
It usually takes me 3 to 4 weeks to finish a bottle of whisky but when I get a bottle of glenfarclas 105 1 litre it usually takes me 2 months to finish it. So I think it can also depend on the whisky you are drinking.
Hi Ralfy. Thinking of your heart-felt measures here in this Taboo vlog, responsible & quite admirable as a note of bravery can go a long way to those of whom have yet to tame their drinking legs and raw emotions.
What tends to happen more often than not is that "our body's tell us a lot" and with common sense if we listen the brain will followI Maybe a pot of tea a java w/a wonderful cigar (even a walk in the park & dinner w/your babe)
Some nights a SM/or a blend will just not do the trick. & to push it I find we can easily find ourselves dipping into deeper waters.
I watch your reviews for knowledge on specific Scotches, and appreciate your other comments for sure. I even went to research Bonniville! I came over tonight from the Whiskey Vault, who tagged you for this episode. Thanks for airing this program!
Me too! I also enjoyed the video with some great suggestions for self-moderating or possibly helping a mate out who is in a tailspin with alcohol. Great as usual Ralphy!
Great Whiskey review. Bravo for highlighting a serious subject others conveniently ignore.
Responsible ralfy, great blog that should be shared.
Fair call Ralfy !
I didn't get to the end but I realise I have to caution a friend towards the end of a tasting night.
If ever you wish to advise how to avoid hangovers look me up-
I have been advising others for years. I am the guinea pig and have soaked up the smarts of others.
Best tip is not to get too over done, but after that smarts can save your body.
We always use tiny glasses and always finish with a few waters.
call by next time you are in town.
Thanks for your hard work
J.
Ralfy - Thank you for posting this very good advice. Glad to have run into it. Being very cognizant of the facts of what we should be be minding while having a drink is a might helpful. Thanks for your insight.
Good of you to address this issue. Many of the whisky vlogers I have watched on youtube seem to inadvertently endorse over consumption.
. . . just doing it my way !
I have much respect for you Ralfy, good talk.
Hey Ralfy, great video. But, that bottle you referenced, assuming it is a regular 750 ml is THIRTY (not 20) units of alcohol (under the British units system). So you had it right the first time. Under the British system 25 ml of 80 proof whisky is 1 unit. In America a "standard drink" is considered 50 ml/1.5 oz. FYI.
Reasonably modest but fairly COMMITTED.
I am an alcoholic. An active one, unfortunately. Everything you said is 100% true. I was like you, until 2007-2008. Dozens of malts and bourbon, a dram or two most nights plus the occasional Manhattan. I could afford this, as a litigation attorney for the worlds biggest bank. Then 2008 hit and I lost a long time girlfriend to cancer and in 2009 got a new boss (a psycho). I began stopping off at a watering hole on the way home alone, combined with the hugely increased stress at work, it became 3-4 Manhattans then a few doubles at home. Then I had enough at work and quit, deciding to take a few months vacation. On the way home I bought two 1.75 liters of the cheapest bourbon they had and proceeded to get hammered. It lasted from April 2011 to April 2012. Then I admitted to friends what I had known for awhile. But I wasn't really serious on quitting for another year. The initial go at quitting is ongoing and lasted another year, ending with a month-long binder in April. I never totally quit but went from a bottle a day to half or less on average.
one day at a time, and take care of yourself !
Please hang in there and thanks for telling your story. Please don't give up.
The legal profession has a very high rate of alcohol abuse. The stress and competitiveness of profession all feed into it. I've seen many a promising career derailed by John Barleycorn and Demon Rum. The best way to fight is to take care of the ones you love and maintain all your friendships. I really think loneliness contributes more to alcoholism than anything else.
Take it one day at a time and a little progress is better than no progress. Good luck to you, sir.
Good on you for slowing down. Keep it up! And most importantly: don't keep it to yourself, communicate with your friends about your progress and even your failings. You're not an island.
Well said Ralfy! This is why I come to Ralfy.com for whisky advice. You give it to us honestly and straight from the heart. I'm currently on an alcohol sabbatical. I have chronic back pain, and will have a glass of wine with lunch, and a small whisky or two before bed. This works better than the prescription drugs my doctor has prescribed for me, and with less harmful side effects. That said, I'm on a ten day break from alcohol. All the best to you! Sincerely, Ossie
This is why you're the best Ralphy!!
Good on ya friend from
Birmingham Alabama USA
I've been following your reviews for a while but I'm glad you've addressed this. Bravo to you. So many other reviewers would simply ignore this as a serious issue. Can't wait for some more Australian whisky reviews!!