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I couldn't understand what all the hoopla about Single Malt Scotch Whisky was about, being a fan of blended whiskies (with mineral water) myself I thought that whisky was whisky was whisky. I think I did mention this around the boards long ago.
Then I bought a bottle of Grant's... and read the label.
I liked the Grant's, a very good blend, but what intrigued me was that the label said it tasted so good because William Grant & Sons made it using Glenfiddich and The Balvenie, their own SMSW.
So last Christmas season I bought myself a bottle of Glenfiddich.

Soooo much better than blended scotch!

Then I recently travelled to the UK, and in a pub I tried Laphroaig (after a pint of ale, of course, I remain a beer aficionado). I was curious about it, having learned that it has a smoky flavor from the peat (and being a big fan of Mezcal, the smoked agave cousin Tequila). Awesome stuff, the flavors, the peat, the aftertaste.
This was followed by Talisker and Lagavulin.
During that travel I also tried a nice Balvenie, 12 yo, double wood, finished in Sherry Oak casks after maturing in Whisky casks. It was very nice, smooth, tasty, very aromatic. Would try it again.

Now I'm a Single Malt Scoth Whisky devotee, especially fond of the Islay peaty malts.

I have just tried Caol Ila, from a 20 cL sampler pack with 12 yo, 18 yo, and cask strength.
Awesome stuff.
I still like the Glenfiddich (and Grant's remains a favorite for highballs) but I love the Islay SMSW.

I also brought a bottle of Glenfarclas 105, I might report back when I try it.