Great video! Monkey Shoulder is my go-to, and according to a rep from the company, it's a blend of Glenfiddich, Balvenie, and Kininvie.
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Great info thank you!
@brandy4522
2 жыл бұрын
Monkey shoulder has been my go to as well. I liked it better than Glenlivit 12.
@doctorzombie9799
Жыл бұрын
They're all nextdoor to each other in Speyside. GREAT blended malt.
@Adam-mj5hl
10 ай бұрын
Monkey Shoulder belongs on monkey’s shoulders. Take it from the late, great Chris Hitchens….the best blended scotch whiskey in the history of blended scotch whiskey is and always will be JWBL.
@Digglerdirk79-l4y
7 ай бұрын
@@Adam-mj5hlwe see where that got him😂 better stay away from JWBL😂
@dinglayne
2 жыл бұрын
If you get the chance find some Kirkland 12 year blended (Costco's house brand) It's priced at $37 for a 1.75L and delicious!
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Will do! Really want to do an all Kirkland show!
@vitalsteve1
2 жыл бұрын
i also dont discriminate between single malts and blends. im all about the flavors and what i enjoy, never stick my nose up being a non-purist myself. ive found some true gems that way. i love monkey shoulder, it was actually my very first wisk(e)y on my journey. on about my 3rd bottle after 3.5years😅 i also have a bottle of naked grouse, the bottle was crazy appealing on the shelf. i got it home and i got notes of dates/fig on the nose and palate. quite intriguing.
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
I am with you! I am in it for pure enjoyment. If a blended scotch tastes good than it’s good!
@thesuccessfulbarber
Жыл бұрын
Agree. Its about the sipping experience not the manufacturing process
@sowhat...
Жыл бұрын
Wym stick your nose up? Like literally to smell the aromas? Also I thought it was funny you apparently went perfectionistic by including the "(e)" to refer to both whiskey and whiskey but you totally skipped the "h" which absolutely must be there 🤦🤣
@royboy2124
2 жыл бұрын
Good picks but Johnnie Walker Black and Monkey Shoulder are usually just a step up from what I would consider budget where I am going closer to $40. I would say Chivas Regal 12yr is better than the Johnnie Walker in that grouping. At the price of Grant's, I highly recommend you search out Teacher's Highland Cream. It's my favorite budget blend, it has 45% Single Malt which is higher than most blends and it's lightly peated which is also rare for a budget bottle. Also, the price is usually unbelievably low for the quality. Cheers!
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Great info here thank you! I don’t have a Chivas either so need to look into that as well. Others have also said Teachers. Def on my list to find!
@ThomasTVP
2 жыл бұрын
Great video. I started in Scotch whisky with Chivas Regal 12 YO blend, and it's by no means a bad whisky. A very popular blend in my country, and certainly not bottom of the barrel. The attraction of blends is that year after year you'll get approx. the same taste experience. Single malt fans think there's something wrong with that. There isn't.
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
No sir! Nothing wrong with that at all! If the whiskey is good and enjoyable than I like it!
@lexsteppling7149
2 жыл бұрын
Grant's has long been an underrated cheap blended scotch. I wouldn't say it's "good" but its decent, and for the class it's in, it's very doable. I have fond memories of it.
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Great explanation! It’s def not top shelf but I think it’s very adequate for the money spent.
@osamashatat
2 ай бұрын
Nice bottle too
@tonyn152
2 жыл бұрын
Thank you so much for this video. I've been starting to "dip my toe" in the Scotch waters, so to speak, and these look like some good, affordable beginner Scotches to try. Thanks!
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Def a good place to start and won’t cost you an arm and a leg.
@1trucxhondamov589
2 жыл бұрын
For some reason, I am in a lot more control under the influence of Scotch and Irish whiskies than vodka. I also like rum, yet I like the Irish and Scotch the best for my taste. I'm sippin a scotch right now,...Highlander & Lord, and feel a lot more in control than vodka or even rum!
@MattSchuster2565
2 жыл бұрын
I just bought a bottle of the Grant's today because of this video. I'm drinking it right now, and I have to say, it's exactly how you described it. I agree it's a well-balanced blended Scotch. Nothing really stands out in it, but it's an easy drinking Scotch at a great price. I paid $27 for it here in Oklahoma, but it's pretty good, so I don't mind. I can't wait to try the monkey shoulder next, if I can find it around here. I did find naked grouse but it's over $50 here, so it will probably be a while before I buy it. The Dewars is over $50 here as well, so that's a shame.
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Ya that is a shame! Sorry bout that! Glad you are enjoying the Grants!
@andrewma923
2 жыл бұрын
Gosh! I like Johnnie Double Black so much more than the Black. I’m not sure if the Double Black is a 12 year as well? Dewars catches such a bad rap. I suppose it’s the cheaper stuff, but I had the 18 year and it was mighty fine for the price.
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Lots of the blended scotch is pretty decent for the money! I have never tried the double black. Have to get that on the list.
@markbowerii7632
Жыл бұрын
Blinded Johnnie walker black against monkey shoulder tonight, JW came out on top for me, though monkey shoulder is not bad. On JW black, maybe it's just me but I get caramel with malted chocolate on the back end, great mouth feel, caramel on the nose, I don't get much peat on it at all but it does make me curious to try other peated scotches, maybe even ardbeg 10 eventually. Cheers!
@kurtanderson5349
2 жыл бұрын
Another pleasant session at the GOBBB. All good choices, Kurt; I'd recommend as well the two Compass Box blends, Glasgow Blend which is lightly peated and compares favorably with JW Black, and my favorite, the Artist Blend, which is peat-free and emphasizes pineapple and cocoanut. IMO Artist Blend should have particular appeal to a bourbon drinker.
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Thanks to my brother with the same name and spelling! I want to do one more blend show with some bottles that are more money or not budget. From your recommendation I will try to get that Artist blend! I have a few Compass box that I enjoy as well.
@jackkeeton9318
Жыл бұрын
Kurt you have the exact same taste preference in Scotch, Bourbon and Rye that I have. Thank you for these awesome reviews!
@HanginAZ
2 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the great options. Normally drink budget Bourbon but have been looking for some budget Scotch options. All of those you mentioned I can find regularly at my local Krogers. I think the Monkey Shoulder might be my next target.
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Hope you enjoy it!
@hqcu180
2 жыл бұрын
I really like Teacher's blended peated malt scotch whisky for cocktail because it's pretty smoky not as a Islay single Malt but for 20€ it's a fair price
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Never heard of this one. I will keep my eyes out for it!
@doctorzombie9799
2 жыл бұрын
I can get Teacher's Highland Cream for $25. Not sure if it's the same thing but it's delicious. It's smokey and it reminds me of Talisker.
@hqcu180
2 жыл бұрын
@@doctorzombie9799 yes it a good blended for the price and I've hearded that Arran distillery provides the peated malt.
@TheWRYYYYYYY
2 жыл бұрын
Got a bottle of Monkey Shoulder on my shelf now, it's really nice. Another cheap but really good blended scotch I've had before would be Islay Mist. Very smoky and very tasty!
@rockycampbell6027
2 жыл бұрын
Islay Mist is my favorite budget smoky scotch.
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Appreciate that recommendation! I don’t have many budget blends so this will help!
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Second recommendation for this one. I will def look for it thank you!
@dunny2124
2 жыл бұрын
Have them all but the naked malt, love sherry macallam, glen d 12, arberlour, will pick up the naked as a daily sipper at thaft value
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Really hope you enjoy it!
@badgerjeff6081
2 жыл бұрын
I thought JW Green would make an appearance but see you were highlighting lower cost options. Naked Grouse is a great recommendation. I need to try the Grant's! Never heard of that one. Thanks for being the Guinea Pig!
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
You got it lol! I want to do another blended show at some point with a few more higher dollar options. I am sure JW green will make it on that one. It’s pretty darn good!
@nicklloyd9165
2 жыл бұрын
For a rusty nail i prefer blended scotch. Thanks for covering these budget bottles.
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
I completely agree!
@rurugby
2 жыл бұрын
My favorite scotch for a Rusty Nail is Dewars Japanese Smooth right now. Actually worked much better than Talisker 10.
@DavidFraser007
2 жыл бұрын
Here in Czech Republic I can buy Grants much cheaper, I've always got a bottle at home and it's actually quite good. Johnny Walker Black is even better, I know people here who drink nothing else. Monkey Shoulder I tried on my last trip home to Scotland, yes, it's excellent, but I didn't know it's part of the Grants/Glenfiddich family. Not tried Naked Grouse, but the usual Famous Grouse is one of the most popular pub whiskies in Scotland, along with Bells. I've never tried a whisky cocktail and only once did I put ice in my whisky.
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Appreciate you checking in!
@TimDowell
2 жыл бұрын
The Naked is my favorite blend because of the sherry. I always keep three of the Naked and three of the Monkey Shoulder on hand. Both are excellent in a Rusty Nail. Great content, as always, sir!
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Great whisky’s and a great cocktail! Can’t go wrong with that plan!
@uawsux
2 жыл бұрын
two things I appreciate you turning me on to old Paul I think and monkey shoulders two very very nice very nice Scotch whiskeys I was drinking Oban pretty rough but mighty tasty very expensive avalor very nice very good but very rough and expensive..... tallister I don't like it's too rough mean... I have learned to dilute it with monkey shoulders or old paw..... I'll be going back to my liquor store for more of those two... I've got lots of things to dilute.......
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Lol well it sounds like you have a great plan! Good luck!
@Lutherson1962
2 жыл бұрын
All five are solid pours. I've enjoyed each. Favorite blend is JW Green Label. I have found quite a few Single Malts that were not as good as these blends.
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Absolutely true! I want to do one more blended show at some point highlighting more expensive bottles. I am sure JW green will be in the list!
@jcresmond1653
2 жыл бұрын
Im a fan of Grants. Good bang for the buck. Decently smooth and good for the liver! I find it comparable to Dewars, those are my budget scotch gotos.
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Excellent option for a budget blend!
@budgetdadbbqbrewing268
2 жыл бұрын
Once again, excellent and fair review of bottom shelf sippers. I’ll be checking out that Naked Malt this week for sure. Have you hit the bottom shelf Irish whiskeys? There are a few very nice budget bottles (Powers Gold, etc.) out there.
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Irish video coming out next Thursday! Not all budget bottles but hopefully you will like the format of the video.
@momorris1464
2 жыл бұрын
I appreciate your videos!! Ever since I landed that bottle of old rip I have been obsessed with bourbon and now have about 20 bottles in 3 weeks... your videos have helped guide me along the way and I would like to thank you! I will be grabbing the 3 monkeys and the johnny black tomorrow, I also love a peated scotch so I'm pumped to try the johnny black
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
That’s awesome! So happy for you!
@dane5896
2 жыл бұрын
I enjoy the Compass Box Great King Street blend. I just bought two bottles of the Dewars 12yo. I like it more than the JW Black.
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the Compass recommendation!
@魏阿芮
2 жыл бұрын
You should try Jonnie walker double black. BTW I don’t know that scotch are way expensive than Taiwan, where I live. JW 12 years is under 20 USD for 1000ml!
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
That’s a fantastic deal! Never tried the double black so will need to do that.
@scottbristow3370
2 жыл бұрын
Unpopular opinion here, but I fell into the hype of Monkey Shoulder and bought a bottle for nearly twice the price of what I usually drink (I live in New Zealand so Monkey Shoulder is expensive)... and I thought it was truly awful!
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
That’s to bad! Everything isn’t for everyone that’s for sure. Hopefully you can use it as a mixer.
@jamesking9807
2 жыл бұрын
It's fun to blow the minds of the folks who sneer at blended Scotch and only drink single malts by pointing out that almost 100% of the so-called "single malts" are in fact blends. To legally be called a single malt, all of the whiskies blended to make that bottling must come from malted barley distilled in the same distillery. And if there's an age statement, it comes from the youngest whisky used to make it. So take Macallan 12. If you had a glass at an airport in England, then another 10 years later at home in Idaho, it needs to taste the same. To achieve this consistency, at the Macallan distlllery the Master Blender samples a whole bunch of Macallan whiskies and selects those that are to be blended and in what quantity in order to produce that same flavor. There could be 18-, 21-, 15-, and whatever year old whiskies that are blended, but none can be younger than 12. So some years there may be seven different whiskies blended to make Macallan 12 Single Malt. The next year, 13. It all depends on the master blender. But if just one of those whiskies used in the blend came from a different distillery, for example Balvenie, then it can no longer be called Single Malt, it must be called Blended Scotch Whisky. It can still have an age statement, though. TL;DR: almost every Single Malt Scotch whisky is a blend.
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Thank you for sharing your knowledge! I would agree whole heartedly that some scotch drinkers are missing out from being close minded. I am a firm believer of drink what you like the way you like it but for me I love to try just about every whisky I can!
@Nikles56
2 жыл бұрын
How do you all enjoy your Blended Scotch Whiskeys? Rocks?, Neat, Fridge or Freezer chilled, Whiskey stones?
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Good question! Anything scotch I usually drink neat. However, I’m intrigued by chilling the bottle and stones.
@brentfarr2632
2 жыл бұрын
Nice list, thanks for the video. Ol Parr deserves an honorable mention I believe as well.
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Haven’t had that one. Will def have to look for it!
@jimmycarello334
Ай бұрын
I really like Grants a great pick
@andrewmeilinger6203
2 жыл бұрын
I'm my experience, only 1 in 5 "single malt only" people can't even properly explain what that means, as well how how the age statement actually works... There are some great blends out there, and conversely there are some crappy single malts as well.
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Lol yes does work both ways some bad some good. I am in the corner of if it’s good it’s just good!
@saltylettuce7541
2 жыл бұрын
I need to get a bottle of Naked Grouse this is the third time in 2 weeks someone has recommended it. Thanks again guys we appreciate you.
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Super glad you enjoyed the show! If you happen to get the NG let me know what you think!
@jeffhowland867
2 жыл бұрын
Could you recommend a budget blended scotch that doesn't taste peaty? I myself am not a fan, that earthy taste turned me off of scotch years ago. I would like to try some more, and would like to go easy on the peat. Thanks for the vid!
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
My suggestion honestly would be Glenmorangie 10 yr. I know it isn’t a blend but it is very reasonable and completely non peated.
@bfulks2001
2 жыл бұрын
I personally love single malts but I am a blue collar guy so they are a treat. As far as blended Scotch goes anything from Famous Grouse is great. I think the value is excellent. Nice list I will try the two I haven't had yet, thanks for the video.
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Appreciate that! Love the NG as well!
@xiamengbaby
2 жыл бұрын
Coming from a bourbon background I enjoy some higher proof whiskey. With that in mind I like the Cutty Sark Prohibition. Yes it's a young whisky, more brash than refined. But it has a nice punch to it that I like in a whisky. Especially when so many blended scotches fall flat and come across as "smooth" (read boring"). I've also recently found a store selling it for $20 a liter. Can't beat it. Compass Box has a couple blended whiskys that are fairly reasonable at about $35 a bottle. The Great King Street Artist Blend and Glasgow Blend. The Artist Blend is more spice and the Glasgow blend has a touch of peat. They are more pricey than some blended scotches but they do have a higher malt content than many, which is a big plus.
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Good points here! My scotch ABV wheel house is 92 proof. I enjoy barrel proof bourbon more than cask strength scotch for the most part. Agree with you the more it gets towards 80 proof I tend to not like it as much.
@nathanclark3575
2 жыл бұрын
Single malt being more expensive is somewhat of a myth. In every price range you find blended and single malt alike, non age stated and age stated alike. Case in point, lagavulin 16 and compass box menagerie are about the same price- $120. Dewars double double 27 is $100 for a 375… meanwhile Glenmorangie signet is $200 for a 750. Plenty more examples but you get my point.
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Yes absolutely do. I have a couple really nice blends for bout 100.00. That’s why I wanted to start with a budget blend video. Obviously can’t get single malts for 20.00. Great thoughts here thank you!
@kevinruble6858
2 жыл бұрын
Couldn't agree more with your line up. I never had a problem with blended scotch myself. I would like to add as favorites The Famous Grouse Smokey Black & JW Green which I know isn't budget but it is delish. Thanks for the video
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
I will take all the recommendations I can get in this category. Appreciate that so much!
@mouse7123
2 жыл бұрын
You should try Carlyle Blend scotch $26 for 1.75 bottle. I like it more then the Grants.
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Haven’t had that one. Thanks for the recommendation!
@raylaux8295
Жыл бұрын
Blends introduce wheat, and corn mash. Scotch is barley malted. Blended Malt Scotch is the only "Blend" for me
@slbdrinks
Жыл бұрын
I get that point.
@MattSchuster2565
2 жыл бұрын
I'm coming up to Indiana in March, so I'll be picking up a bunch of liquor at much better prices to bring back home with me!
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Good idea! Get ya a few to last you for a while.
@mikem4432
2 жыл бұрын
Black Label is very peaty and smokey.. just FYI if you do not like that smoke then do not go black
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Peat is a love or hate that’s for sure!
@cliffnorman178
Жыл бұрын
Fully agree that Naked Grouse is a wonderful blend.
@darbyheavey406
Жыл бұрын
Blends made Scotch a global product. Single malts are a function of affluence.
@slbdrinks
Жыл бұрын
One thing I can’t stand is a whiskey snob so with you there. There are some great 12 yr single malts for round 60.00. Some great blends out there as well!
@lukeraynor3704
2 жыл бұрын
Is the johnnie Walker black label much better than the red label? I bought some red label recently and it was god awful.
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Yes it is much better. Many other comments will say the same thing.
@nickarellano7266
2 жыл бұрын
Back to the liqour store🤠
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
😂😂😂
@michaelgalindo9162
2 жыл бұрын
My favorite is Chivas Regal
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Have to get that one!
@tomweston5380
2 жыл бұрын
Totally agree on the Naked Grouse-- a new favorite. Another great blend--bit pricier: Dewar's 18
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
I bet that is good just based on the 12 yr.
@TheReal_DeanD
2 жыл бұрын
I’ve been closed minded on Grants. I’m going to find that triple wood now.
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
It isn’t mind blowing but solid for the price.
@ernestclayton8550
2 жыл бұрын
I enjoy J&B or a Monkey Shoulder on the rock's after a round of Golf ⛳ Cheer's
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Great choices!
@marvinwilks5893
Жыл бұрын
Smoking imported premium Cigars with a Bourbon or Scotch drink cocktails & watching Videos on those subjects the Most Excellent way to spend a couple of hours. Great Show!
@Forestwalker111
9 ай бұрын
Ok, so I am along time scotch lover. However I don’t claim much knowledge of them. I had enjoyed 12 yr double balvenie. Then the price double where I am. Can you offer any suggestions in the 62 $80 range that would give me an extremely similar flavour profile? I really enjoyed the honey notes and the smoothness. Please help? Be well, Craig
@dwill123
2 жыл бұрын
A very good video. I am unashamedly a Grant's man. I really like the taste. If I'm on the road I'll drink 'Black Label'.
@siv1882
2 жыл бұрын
I've tasted blended brands that taste better then some high end single malt, at the end of the day drink what you like and don't be a snob
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Perfect! I couldn’t have said it better!
@lecheff4836
2 жыл бұрын
Should do 5 smokey scotch vs 5approachable scotches
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Great idea! Thank you
@frankquinby5502
2 жыл бұрын
What cocktails do you make with scotch? I’ve only had it neat.
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
There are a decent number. If you research on your phone you will find some good recipes. One of the easiest and delicious is the rusty nail. Requires only scotch and a liqueur called Drambuie. Try 2 oz let’s say monkey shoulder 1 oz Drambuie See how you like that than adjust if necessary. Tasty cocktail! Good question!
@harpintom1
2 жыл бұрын
I feel that the taste of single malt whisky is sometimes overrated. For example, I liked Monkey Shoulder much more than the usually recommended Glenfiddich 12 or 15. Both Glenfiddich samples tasted like soap.
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Single malt def isn’t for everyone.
@jaysterling7257
2 жыл бұрын
Monkey shoulder is a blend of single malts.
@johnpickett8533
2 жыл бұрын
I read a positive review on Johnny Walker Double Black. Have you had it ,if so what's your take? I buy blind sometimes, because it's exciting, but I've been on a bad streak of crap lately.
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
That happens sometimes when you don’t know. I haven’t had the double black yet. Not sure good or bad. Sorry
@johnpickett8533
2 жыл бұрын
@SLB Drinks Thank you. Someone is buying so it can't be too bad. I really like the Gold Johnny...15 year Green sound great also .
@xOogieBoogie3x
10 ай бұрын
I like Buchanan's DeLuxe 12 and Cutty Sark. Dewar's is always fine too.
@artn.7107
2 жыл бұрын
I’m off to get some Monkey Shoulder now!!!
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Really hope you enjoy it!
@enricojaun2880
2 жыл бұрын
Whoo! Naked grouse is great! Love sherried scotch. Oddly kind of hard to come by for me. Spending a little more for highland park 12 is also a good buy.
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Agreed for sure!
@fturla
2 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the video. I've never seen the Naked Grouse bottle around. The Monkey Shoulder bottle has become more popular in the last few years as a go to scotch especially for entry into scotch whisky. I do recommend the Johnny Walker Black, especially if you want a similar taste to the Johnny Walker Blue Label version. I can't comment on the Dewar's 12 yr since I haven't tasted it. The Grant's Scotch, I've seen around for over 20 years and the price has been stable without much price appreciation.
@bdwilcox
2 жыл бұрын
Found a blended single malt that I like even better than both Monkey Shoulder and Naked. It's called Mash Cut and is a house brand for Total Wine & More. Total Wine also sells a fantastic Islay Peated Single Malt blend called Scarabus for a ridiculously low $35 but man is it good.
@jackbackband7733
Жыл бұрын
What on earth is a blended single malt
@Sven95lwb
2 жыл бұрын
Just had JW green the other day...truly excellent 👌 blend
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Agreed! Hoping to do one more blend show highlighting a bit more expensive bottles. I am sure JW green will be on the list!
@sevrenearhart1967
2 жыл бұрын
It’s very easy to just walk by the blended scotch section in your local liquor store, I think some blends might need to be tasted! Thanks guy
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Hopefully it was helpful! Enjoy!
@glytch5
4 ай бұрын
10 or 12 years ago blacklabel was absolutely fantastic. Even after getting into single malts I still came back to black label. Now due to poor cask quality it is hardly a step up from red label in my opinion. The nose is still decent, but the finish is completely dead with re charred poor inactive cask qualities.
@hollyjhj3732
2 жыл бұрын
I had never even considered a blended Scotch until viewing your recommendation of Monkey Shoulder. So glad I tried it. And now I feel like I have a new cocktail option, as I would never waste a single malt on a mixed drink. Great recs as always, Kurt!
@mknewlan67
2 жыл бұрын
Monkey shoulder was my first foray into scotch. I loved it and it opened a huge door for me. Now I’m a scotch head. Not really into over smoked ones yet and definitely not a scotch snob. Costco has a superb mixing scotch. Kirkland scotch. It’s cheap and enjoyable. I’ll even have a dram straight.
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
This grouping is the best I have on hand. I think it’s important to have cheaper option(s) on hand. Let’s face it, it’s hard to pour 60.00 and up single malts every time. Appreciate ya!
@Lutherson1962
2 жыл бұрын
I've found many single malts that are worthy of mixers, or drain.
@jenskunc5951
2 жыл бұрын
What about J&B rare ? 🤔 Your views on it
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Have not had this one. Sorry.
@gordons3071
2 жыл бұрын
Great episode! Fun, helpful and informative. Thanks for posting!
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
You got it! Appreciate ya!
@VladMatejka
10 ай бұрын
Dewar 12 year is just a good easy drinker. Islay Mist 8 is a budget Laphroig. Naked Malt/Grouse is a budget sherry bomb with similar character to Abelour. Skip Abelour 12, save for 16, buy Naked Malt. Bowmore 12 used to be good on sale...those days are gone, but damn was it good mixed or in tea, coffee, on cakes. Ballantines or cheap Highland Park bottles will suffice. Glen Moray Port Finish is good too...12 year malt is not much more. Grants did not do it for me. Not worth it, but everyone's tastebuds are different. Got weird tastes from it. JW black is next on my list!
@permanentfitness1919
3 ай бұрын
I've become a lot more of a Dewar's fan lately- the 12, the Frenched & the Japanese style are all pretty nice. Johnny Black has kinda been the standard for a good blend - also like their double black & the green label. Blue is great, but so much $$$$
@abraham2174
2 жыл бұрын
Grants is the only budget Scotch on your list. The others are all a price range higher.
@vegetablejoe5756
Жыл бұрын
Hi. You mentioned that you enjoyed peated whiskeys. Would you comment on Teacher's Highland Cream vs. JW Black Label?
@NealKanter
4 ай бұрын
Enjoyed your video and bought Monkey Shoulder for under $30 but JW Black was around $50 I believe. Thanks!
@chrismarshall4486
4 ай бұрын
That naked grouse is naked malt now but I must have gotten a bad bottle or it’s just not for my taste. Mine has no sweetness, all dry maltyness. But that’s not even the bad part. The finish is pure astringent. It’s like drinking turpentine. That monkey shoulders is rocking though. I’m loving it. Haven’t gotten to try any of the rest.
@BD4-ManchesterIsRed
Жыл бұрын
I'm appalled that Antiquary 12yr old isn't on your list.
@slbdrinks
Жыл бұрын
I honestly haven’t heard of it. Not a scotch expert by any means but I will def be looking for it!
@BD4-ManchesterIsRed
Жыл бұрын
@@slbdrinks You won't regret it.
@johnk7093
2 жыл бұрын
Great Vid. Grants and Naked I have not had, thinking lots like the Naked so should pick on up... Dewars--hard pass, the smoke is burnt rubber. Black Label, just had it 2 weeks ago and I like it, didn't think I would.. because Red is sooo disgusting..... Monkey Shoulder is pretty good for a starter.... thought about this... my fave would be Spice Tree by Compassbox... I paid 50 for it where Im at and since Black is 45 here, 5 more bucks, I think it could be in the mix... and if you can find it.. Smokey Joe, is light fruit, bbq smoke and peppered ham. Its a blend I paid 35 for, and its 46% so could do well in a mixer. cheers my friend....
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Never heard of Smokey joe but really sounds good! Hoping to do another blended video at some point highlighting a bit more expensive bottles. I have the spice tree as well and like it so that one will probably be in that video. We have the same opinion on the JW red label, not so good! Take care
@NoName-fx9zi
Ай бұрын
Only about 10% of all Scotch on the market is single malt anyways, so seems a little silly to dismiss the rest of the 90%. If it gets the job done, let it do its' job.
@tomz6594
2 жыл бұрын
There are some very solid blends out there. The ones in this video are all solid for the price. My favorite blends are The Feathery, Ballantine's, and Islay Mist.
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the recommendations!
@tomz6594
2 жыл бұрын
@@slbdrinks you like peated scotch so I'd suggest Islay Mist if you can find it. 8 year age stated blend usually around $20-25.
@alandonald9008
2 жыл бұрын
I'm not a big fan of blended whisky but I do drink Black Bottle. It's a blend of Islay malts so it has a nice peaty taste
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Have never heard of it but sounds right up my alley! Thanks for the recommendation!
@hellogodblessyou6946
2 жыл бұрын
👍👍👍👍👌👌👌👏👏🤟🥃🍻😎
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Thank you my friend! Love your KZitem name!
@ThomasTVP
2 жыл бұрын
A blended Scotch I liked quite a bit was a Whyte & Mackay 13YO (same company that makes Dalmore & Jura single malts), very smooth. Of course I watched Richard Patterson's videos as an accompaniment. But because slightly more expensive blends aren't popular in my country, the companyhas all but given up on distributing theme here. Actually visited the distillery in Scotland that makes the "Grouse" series of whiskies as part of a coach tour (surprisingly, they didn't sell electric blankets on the trip), but only the cheapest, The Famous Grouse, enjoys any popularity around here. :(
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Sorry to hear the difficulty you are having finding good blends. I do appreciate your recommendation!
@MrChristopherMolloy
2 жыл бұрын
Respectfully, grouping together ALL-MALT Blended Malts, which are their own category of Scotch Whisky, with Blended Scotch, which are again a separate category of Scotch Whisky, is confusing to your viewers IMHO. I'm sure you realize since you mentioned it that BLENDED MALT is, like SINGLE MALT, 100% MALT WHISKY; so why would you group it together and compare it to BLENDED SCOTCH which contains GRAIN WHISKY and tastes totally different?
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Unfortunately I do not have endless supplies of whiskey bottles since what bottles you see on all of our shows are 100% purchased by us. I would not have enough to separate the categories but still wanted to shed light on quality blends. I do understand your point though, does make sense.
@MrChristopherMolloy
2 жыл бұрын
@@slbdrinks My apologies, sorry to be so critical, but so many reviewers conflate the two categories, and it drives me a bit nuts because Blended Malt is terribly under-appreciated & misunderstood. It was better IMHO when this category was referred to as "Pure Malt" or "Vatted Malt"; "Blended Malt" is just a stupid name ✌️
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Lol no worries buddy I didn’t think you were being to critical at all. I appreciate constructive criticism when done respectfully which is exactly what you did. Excellent thoughts.
@MrChristopherMolloy
2 жыл бұрын
@@slbdrinks Thank you, and thanks for the reviews ✌️
@rafaelcid
2 жыл бұрын
Monkey Shoulder and Naked Grouse are both bottled at 40% abv in my region, what I think it definitely disqualifies them for cocktails, and sadly enough, both are also a bit more expensive here to buy... Would you still consider them a budget dram if you'd have to pay extra 10 bucks for your bottle? I totally agree with the rest of your list (except for the Grants which I have not tried yet) all seems very interesting blended Scotchs to my taste, I wont stock any Johnnie Walker Black Label in my cellar as it is not my cup of tea... but an interesting offer for most of your guess I have to admit.
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Great topic of conversation on your part considering ABV. I agree the 80 proof is low and probably would not work that well in cocktails. Works ok for a sipper but truthfully would rather have a little more. My scotch wheelhouse would be 92 proof. Excellent, love comments that make me think!
@cantbendknee
2 ай бұрын
Blended scotch is having a moment. The Naked Grouse is lovely on it's own. The truth is some of these are better than the basic single malts.
@Activated_Complex
2 жыл бұрын
When I’m not sipping a good Islay single malt, I quite like Johnny Walker Black, to where I don’t even really think of it as a budget blended scotch. It’s juuuuust cheap enough to enjoy on the rocks, without that feeling like a waste of good whisky. And juuuuuust strong enough to stand up to the diluting effect of the ice melting, if you’re not quick about putting it away. The real budget end, for me, tops out at Teacher’s, also quite nice for the money. And if I reach for something on the bottom shelf, it’s just as likely to be Scoresby’s as anything else. It gets a lot of flak for lacking complexity, but you’re drinking cheap scotch, the goal is to avoid offensive odors and aftertaste. Which this ultra-budget offering nimbly avoids. Plus, it works quite well for a scotch & soda, provided the ratio leans in favor the former, which is how I like them, anyway.
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Much appreciated your views on this topic! Thank you!
@FawleyJude
2 жыл бұрын
I've tried all of these except Naked Grouse, because I never can seem to find it anywhere. Either it's too popular or it's not distributed in my area. The others you list are good, but in the price range of Grant's I prefer Dewar's White Label. In fact it's been my go-to Scotch for drinks on the rocks or highballs. I may need to up my game a bit and go with the Dewar's 12 year. As far as blended Scotch not being good enough for some, I would note that Winston Churchill's whisky of choice--used in highballs--was Johnnie Walker Red. He wasn't exactly low-class.
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Good info to know! Wasn’t aware of the Churchill whisky of choice.
@joeyjohnson4826
2 жыл бұрын
Considering in my younger days I drink old crow and Evan Williams from my dad and my friend's dad's liquor cabinet I'm not too picky even though I don't drink that s*** anymore LOL you can get good Irish single malts pretty cheap 😁
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Have to get into the Irish whisky stuff sometime soon!
@beebobox
7 ай бұрын
Grants triple wood is 60$ here where I live 😢 And JW black is 71$
@peterbruno657
6 ай бұрын
I got a bottle of Dewars 12 bc I wanted to try scotch. Very citrusy in my opinion. I got a lot of spice and very little sweetness. I definitely prefer bourbon but it was a nice change.
@miamiman196
9 ай бұрын
I just got a bottle of Grant's for $11.99 - $3.00 coupon on the bottle. Total: $9.00 for the bottle.
@barryrickert6544
2 жыл бұрын
nice video as usual Kurt. Just can't get excited over Scotch whisky. Just isn't bourbon or Tennessee whiskey to my palate. Never was fortunate enough to try the Naked grouse. Reminds me of a Wild Turkey 101 bottle.(: Stay safe, stay armed, stay free.
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
I understand where you are coming from. Scotch isn’t for everyone and that’s ok! Appreciate ya!
@jshicke
2 жыл бұрын
Not a fan of the peat aroma, it smells like a new adhesive band-aid and I just can't seem to get past it. Naked Grouse sounds interesting. I will need to seek out a bottle. I appreciate you bringing other bottles to my attention that I might never otherwise hear about.
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Appreciate that thank you!
@pwrbomb1970
2 жыл бұрын
No snobbery here but I’d much prefer a single malt. Have tried blended but just don’t care for it like a single malt. Just my preference. If others like blended good on them. Enjoy what you like!!
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
That’s the attitude I aspire to as well. If you set a single malt in front of me side by side with a blend and gave me a choice I would more than likely choose the single malt every time. I do think the budget blends have there place though. Good comment!
@doctorzombie9799
Жыл бұрын
Where is Teacher's? That's a good smokey blend. 20-25 dollars.
@RealJahzir
2 жыл бұрын
So I heard on another channel that Bourbon "finished" in different barrels can no longer be sold as Bourbon? But the you mentioned you really enjoy Bourbon and scotch finished in Sherry Casks. I am curious if you have any more info on the Bourbon "Rules". I am very new to the subject. Thanks
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
So sorry but I am not aware of this “rule”. To be truthful, I don’t get into the “rules” to much when discussing whiskey. Don’t get me wrong, I understand there is a place for everything but for me I concentrate more on is it enjoyable. I look at it as it’s a bourbon (possibly even a blended bourbon) that is finished in other barrels to enhance flavors. It was definitely considered bourbon before the finishing process so I would consider it to still be bourbon. Plz know that this is my opinion only without actually looking into the legalities of it all. Not to beat a dead horse but I would rather enjoy a bourbon and not waste my time researching rules and regs. Great question though, enjoy your day!
@stabthedragonproductions6649
2 ай бұрын
The only one I have not had is Naked Grouse. Of the other 4 the JW Black is my fave.
@rurugby
2 жыл бұрын
Give Compass Box Glasgow Blend and Artists Blend a try. Wonderful blends for around $30. More peat in the Glasgow Blend.
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Thanks for your recommendations! Quite a few have suggested the artist blend. Will have to do that.
@Michael-ys5cn
Жыл бұрын
Best cheap whiskey is a Canadian one, Black Velvet! People will laugh but black velvet is so smooth
@ronfredericks1793
2 жыл бұрын
Per a guy from Islay we met at the Grand Canyon a few years ago, “blended” is merely “ cookin’ whisky”. That said, blendeds are great for mixed cocktails. Singles I only drink neat.
@slbdrinks
2 жыл бұрын
Everyone has choices and I def respect his and yours if it’s the same! Like I said in the video my friend won’t touch a blend to drink neat. To each his own but at times I feel they are missing out on some pretty decent stuff.
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