Glen Moray 16 Year Old

Hi @GMJ, I'm surprised to hear that you find Speysides a little harsh, as they are often considered as the entry-level malts ... but each to his own ... and that's the way you see it. I could only suggest that Lowlands, such as Auchentohan, would be a bit softer. But I'm just curious as to what malts or categories you would find to be less harsh ? You seem to like the Glenmoray 16 in a big way ... I've never tasted one ... but will have to try it.

My entry to malt was Taliker and Lagavulin, I know that their smokey peaty flavor is too much for some but they have a smooth after taste, Speysides like Glenlivet and Glenfiddich do not have the depth, which to some makes them accesible, but they tend to have kick. But I will concede that there are other spey siders like, Balvenie, Craggenmore among others so to correct my self it the south west corner of central Spey side I am not so keen on. I appologise to rest of speyside ....Oh yes Auchentohan is a great choice...

I quite agree with GMJ: islay whiskies of course have the smokey/peaty flavours, but they cover the alcohol kick, which IMHO is much more evident in the average 12 yo speysider...

Nice review. This month, in the Virginia (USA) ABC stores they are carrying this whiskey for US $59.95 plus 6% tax. They are offering a US $15 rebate, which makes it a very good deal. So, it's off to the ABC store tomorrow to pick up a bottle. Thank you for a very helpful review.