On Friday, February 12, seven members of the River City Whisky Society met for an “Under $30 Bottle” whisky tasting. We had a good variety that included three bottles of single malt scotch, two blends, two Irish whiskies and a Kentucky rye whiskey.
Each of the tasters rated the whiskies and here are the results, in order of worst to best, along with a few tasting notes:
8) Tullamore Dew 12 year old Irish Whiskey – Not much taste, very soft flavors, a beginner’s whiskey.
7) Russell’s Reserve 6 year old Rye – Smell of rye with hints of pepper, strong finish.
6) Johnnie Walker Black 12 year old Blended Scotch – Strong peat taste, some smoke, good after taste.
5) Chivas Regal 12 year old Blended Scotch – Very sweet taste like bourbon, long finish.
4) The Glenlevit 12 year old Single Malt – Creamy smell, good even taste, simple and clean, good finish. Good all around scotch.
3) Powers 12 year old Special Reserve Irish Whiskey – Warm smell, smooth, sweet after taste.
2) Glen Garioch 8 year old Single Malt – Smell of caramel and peat, light and fruity taste, very smooth for its age.
1) Tomatin 12 year old Single Malt (matured in spanish sherry cask) – Great smell of fruit, complex flavor, compares to much pricier single malts.