Little Known SMS

I will always buy a Mortlach (can be wonderfully fruity, though some expressions are more muted) or Clynelish (light and florid peat if it's a good one) if the price is halfway decent. Ardmore is a non-islay with some solid peat character (my recent Gordon&McPhail bottle was o.k. but my Signatory non-chill-filtered is full of character). A nice Glenfarclas can be a classic highland dram (their high-proof bottling is very good, and they produce a first-fill sherry casking that can be outstanding). I've really enjoyed Benriach lately (can be had at very good prices in Europe). My recent Gordon&McPhail Miltonduff was really good--rich and fruity like the first one I had some two decades ago. (Most of these are not big, assertive whiskies like the great Islays--they derive their character more from rich & complex malt sweetness).

Thanks for the advice Douglas. You've certainly given me some ideas and I intend to start my exploration very soon.

All the Best, Fred

I would also add Longmorn to the list. The OB 15 is a little known classic.

Good luck, John

I appreciate the advice John. Thanks, Fred

How about giving a lowland ago? I really love Bladnoch from Dumfries and Galloway. The malt is typically very light with gentle, delicate notes...often floral, honeyed or cirtus. Now that summer is nearly upon us, the Islays have graduated to the back of the cupboard and the lighter whisker are moving forward. Bladnoch is perfect for drinking all summer long! There are a quite few different bottlings going about. The last I tried was a Gordon and MacPhail Connoisseurs Choice 1991...it was really nice. There is also a great independant bottle (I forget the name) of non chill filtered stuff available from the Distillery shop/mail order. It was special.

Cheers! Glen

Only for the faint of heart! 8;)

-- Larry