good whiskey guidebook

I disagree with this suggestion, if you don't know the difference between the various bottles stocked at Tesco's you need a copy of Michael Jackson's Malt Whisky Companion, available on Amazon. This does not deal with blends and Irish whiskey but is a good way of getting your head wrapped around the readily available malts on sale at your local store.

Once you know the difference between the standard malt names such as Glenfddich, The Glenlivet, Ardbeg, Laphroaig, The Macallan, Glenmorangie, Bowmore, Highland Park, etc, then you will be in a better position to start exploring the nuances and differences between these, blends, Irish and other lesser knows singles. Jim Murray's book is aimed towards whisky enthusiasts who already have a good grounding in whisky, whereas Michael Jackson's book is better suited to a generalist audience and those just developing an interest in whisky.

My two cents... ;o)

Johanna

For a very basic book that covers standard bottlings of single malts and blends, try the Collins Whisky Gem by Carol P. Shaw. A handy, portable book if you're just looking for a quick reference guide.

Murray's book is great but is definitely not one I would recommend to someone looking for a directory of available malts. As Murray himself said, the "Complete" book was designed to take people on a tour of the world's distilleries and to focus people on what to expect from their make. Murray is publishing a book of whisky tasting notes coming out this fall so that might be another option.

Johanna

Michael Jacksons books are also available on tape and CD........ although they are called 'Bad', 'Thriller', etc.

ok...... terrible joke, but it least it may remove any intensity this debate seems to be creating!!!

enthusiasts who

Yes, but his proclivities and recommendations are strongly biased towards the younger stuff.

Oh, well done. I did enjoy that.

-Matt

Try The Malt Whisky Guide by David Stirk. There's a paperback version available for about 10 pounds. It has tasting notes and distillery information for most of the available malts.

Mike