Fresh start with Scotch/Whiskey and single malt

[Frodo]

Originally Posted by Goldie

1. Is there is solid source of information (website) that is rather comprehensive when it comes to Scotch and single malts?

2. Does anyone know of an online retailer that sells a single malt sampler? I would like to get some small 50ml bottles as a taster before I start buying bottles.

And other than the above questions, does anyone have any general recommendations, information, etc that they would be happy to share with a Scotch newb. I look forward to diving into this world as much as I enjoy the cigar world.

Hi Drew:

1) The two biggest on-line forums are www.whishkywhiskywhisky.com and www.whiskymag.com with a ton of blogs out there. Wouldn't know where to start with the blogs - just google and start looking.

2) Not sure of on-line retailers in the US. But what I understand about 50ml bottlings is that most come in sets that illustrate a line with its extentions (ie. 4 Glenmorangies, Glenfiddich 12, 15 & 18, the 6 "Classic Malts" by Diagio etc.). I think getting these would be cheaper than going to a bar but only a few malts are bottled at 50 ml.

3) Try a dram before buying a bottle. Try it at a bar if you have to but don't just plonk down your coin because a review said it was good. Jim Murray's Whisky Bible is a really comprehensive tool when thinking about buying a dram at a store. A ton of whiskies tasted and reviewed.