Value-hunting, anti-hype and mystery/blind tastings
Key Questions
Why is Pikesville Rye 110pf recommended as a value pick?
Pikesville Straight Rye Whiskey at 110 proof and $76 offers great value from Heaven Hill Distillery with a 51% rye mashbill.
What makes Laphroaig Select a good intro to peated whisky?
Laphroaig Select is sweet, smooth, and subtle, serving as a mellow single malt blend perfect for introducing peated Islay whiskies.
What value does Glenfiddich 12 in 1.75L offer?
Glenfiddich 12 in a 1.75L bottle is highlighted as a budget-friendly option among value Scotches.
What is special about Glen Moray Forbidden Fruit?
Glen Moray Forbidden Fruit, a budget Speyside Scotch with Calvados finish, tastes like apple pie with bright orchard fruit and vanilla.
Which bourbons can be bought in liter sizes?
Liter-sized bourbons provide value, with standard 750ml as reference, emphasizing size benefits in bourbon shopping.
Why defend Jack Daniel’s Old No.7 against whiskey snobs?
Jack Daniel’s Old No.7 is defended as undervalued, countering snobbery in whiskey circles.
What are some wheated bourbons under $50 like Town Branch?
Town Branch under $50 pairs naturally with Kentucky golf culture; new wheated releases include Chicken Cock, Castle & Key, and Middle West.
What Texas rye surprised reviewers?
A contract-distilled Texas rye impressed in a tasting video, highlighting underrated options.
Blinds/budget picks: Pikesville Rye 110pf $76; Laphroaig Select mellow intro; Glenfiddich 12 1.75L; Redemption 92pf $30 relaunch; Blended Scotch cocktails; 12 Scotches > Macallan; Glen Moray Forbidden; Sherry beginners; wheated; Town Branch <$50; Knob Creek Rye $39; liter bourbons; Texas rye; Jack Daniel’s Old No.7.