I like to try new things. Having a fondness for Speyside whiskies, I have somehow negected to try the Islay malts. I decided to correct that oversight this weekend.

Now my usual whisky tasting time is in the evening, with a nice pipe. Abigail (lovely dog that she is!) doesn't care for tobacco smoke and excuses herself to nap in the next room. By chance I was trying a new blend of tobacco and had acquired a "Missouri Meerschaum" for the purpose, being unwilling to risk a good briar on an unknown quantity.

As I lit the pipe, I noted that the tobacco was heavy on Turkish Latakia. It had a strong, slightly bitter smoke, and while pleasant, I won't be purchasing more.

I poured a bit of Laphroaig into my glass, noting a pleasant color and a very smoky aroma. Then I tasted it.

The sensation of smoke from the glass overpowered the ACTUAL smoke from my pipe! I have to say that this is an unusual sensation. I'm finding it remarkably difficult to categorize. Obviously more research is in order!

KD

:ootd: