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South => Scarborough Renaissance Festival => Topic started by: Merlin on January 07, 2011, 04:06:55 PM

Title: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: Merlin on January 07, 2011, 04:06:55 PM
I'm a scotch drinker... not sure I've had rum more than a couple times in college and I'm thinking of taking the rum-plunge.

Why?

Rum sounds like a fun thing to drink. LOTS of paytrons drink it. It must be good....right?

So let's discuss it here and decide which rum I should try. Now... granted... just because you like it in no way means I will like it based only on "It's good" so please help me pick one.

The scotch I drink is only single malt. My faves are Highland Park 18 and 12, Aberfeldy 21, Balvenie 21, and Macallan. What makes one scotch better or different than another?
Some are fruitier, some have more of a wood flavour, some are just smoother.
What makes 1 rum better than another and which brand leans which way?

Do you drink the rum straight up (neat).... on ice.... mixed with soda?

Which rums are better mixed...which better straight up?

Any help would be much appreciated.

Plus it's fun to talk about rum when getting ready for fair ! ! !
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: Merlin the Elder on January 07, 2011, 04:23:30 PM
When I was your age, son—several centuries ago—I would drink the cheap stuff... Big mistake.  Your taste in good Scotch should carry over to good rum. But since I am a sour-mash (there can be only one...Jack of Daniels) wizard, I can offer little guidance.

When I did drink rum, it was as a Cuba Libre. Be assured that a proper Cuba Libre can only be made with Coca Cola, and that comes from the US court system! Really!
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: Merlin on January 07, 2011, 04:36:54 PM
Crap.... dad caught me drinking...again!

I'm not a snob but I really only like "the good stuff" which usually means "the expensive stuff".

Many a time I've had a friend tell me.."You gotta try this stuff...it's better than Glen-whatever" and I sip it and I WANT to like it...but I never do.

Scotch is a weird drink.... the differences in one from another are HUGE.

Are rums the same way? I mean...is Bicardi (sp) really different from Captain Morgan?

In whiskey... I can tell the difference in my dads stash of Jack Daniels and Crown Royal but I like them both equally as much. One is Tennessee whiskey and the other is Canadian but they are somewhat similar and both tasty. Once mixed with coke.... the difference is minimal. (I know... whiskey drinkers swear there's a big difference but I bartended through college and trust me...after 2 drinks, they don't know the difference)

Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: Merlin the Elder on January 07, 2011, 04:55:23 PM
Good liquor is all about quality. I don't care much for Scotch in general, but like an expensive single-malt.

Jack Daniels is a sour-mash whiskey, while Crown is a bourbon (blended, I believe). Just as you (and I) can discern the differrence between Chevas Regal (now I know it's a cheap scotch!) and something as tasty as Macallan, JD and Crown, to me, are as different as Otis Knight and Susan Dey (and I can tell the difference in Coke, even after a couple, unless they are really weak).  Jack Daniels single barrel is a superb, albeit not particularly smooth, whiskey. It has a distinctive bite, but my gawd, it is so good!  Gentleman Jack is—well, as Col Potter would say, "there aren't enough O's in smooth to describe it!"  I used to drink a lot of Canadian Club...I can't get it down anymore.

There are some real rum drinkers out here.  We need to hear from them. 
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: The Rabbi on January 07, 2011, 05:05:56 PM
My personal favorite would be Whalers Rum a bit hard to find herabouts but they have a Vanilla Rum that mixes very well with Coke. Personal opinion if you mix Rum it only mixes with coke. I do not care for dark or spiced rums but a buttered rum on occasions is rather nice. Of course I am also of the opinion that grease is good butter is better. Bacardi is a decent rum but I have never aquired a taste for Captain Morgan but again Ive only had Morgans spiced and as I stated do not care for spiced rum. I would recomend a clear Bacardi for a start and then Whalers flavored Rums. Coke is a must.
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: bran_gray on January 07, 2011, 05:39:08 PM
Where's Teach when you need him  ???
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: brier patch charlie on January 07, 2011, 06:31:41 PM
I go with  Scotch, I like it with a very lite peat and smokey taste. Rum to me has a taste that is like drinking cough syrup.
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: Amyj on January 07, 2011, 06:39:40 PM
I'm not the expert Teach is, but I have earned the nickname "Ms. Rum" at our local faire, so I will put my 2 shots in.... I only know spiced or dark rums, and I don't mix, so my opinions are for "sippers"...but:

I like Captain Morgan Private Stock when I am wanting a sweeter, more "molassesy" spiced rum.  It doesn't seem to be good for rum & coke...but it's fantastic in hot cocoa! 

Pyrate XO is my "go to rum".  To me, it's complex...I get a burst of citrus, then a light mollasses taste and a spicy, almost black peppery finish.  (my sweetie and I got the Pyrate Cask 1623 once and it is even better, but expensive...XO is affordable and a pretty dead-on sub).

Goslings Black is pretty good...to me it was not as sweet as Captain, and had an almost....coffee? chocolate? woody?  flavor...hard to describe...It was an interesting taste...good for a diversion, but not a go-to.

I personally prefer my rum room temp (or should I say from-the-flask-that-has-been-carried-around-faire temp)...but I would suggest experimenting, rums have different nuances (or whatever the term is) at different temps.

(I have been told that for mixing rum & cokes, Admiral Nelson spiced rum is a good, economical alternative to regular Captain Morgan spiced...but I didn't find it to be as good straight up)

I recently got some rum in Nassau (Ole Nassau Dark and Ole Nassau Coconut, Appelton Estate Reserve and Fire In De Hole "Erotic Rum"...I'll let y'all know how those go...gonna need to do a tasting party.

Anyhoo, there you go. :)
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: Zardoz on January 07, 2011, 10:35:31 PM
I was gonna reply to this thread but Merlin said everything I would have!


Quote from: Merlin the Elder on January 07, 2011, 04:55:23 PM
Good liquor is all about quality. I don't care much for Scotch in general, but like an expensive single-malt.

Jack Daniels is a sour-mash whiskey, while Crown is a bourbon (blended, I believe). Just as you (and I) can discern the differrence between Chevas Regal (now I know it's a cheap scotch!) and something as tasty as Macallan, JD and Crown, to me, are as different as Otis Knight and Susan Dey (and I can tell the difference in Coke, even after a couple, unless they are really weak).  Jack Daniels single barrel is a superb, albeit not particularly smooth, whiskey. It has a distinctive bite, but my gawd, it is so good!  Gentleman Jack is—well, as Col Potter would say, "there aren't enough O's in smooth to describe it!"  I used to drink a lot of Canadian Club...I can't get it down anymore.

There are some real rum drinkers out here.  We need to hear from them. 

About the only rum we keep around the house is Railean http://www.railean.com/home.html ,
We use it to make Sailor Jacks, a shot of rum and a shot of Jack Daniels in a pint glass of Coke  ;D
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: *Teach* on January 08, 2011, 09:20:56 AM
Scotch is ok when there there isn't rum available...

There are a ton of rum options though that just don't work with scotch. With rum you can have straight, flavored or in elebenty bajillion different mixed drinks.
My favorite straight rum is Pyrate XO reserve based on a combo of price and taste. My favorite just for flat out incredible taste has a new winner though, Ron Zacapa Centenario 23. Hands down the best rum I have ever had but definitely on the pricey side.
Flavored rums were an awesome invention. When it comes to mixing a quick drink nothing compares to the simplicity of coconut rum and Mountain Dew. For those of you who think I am crazy, try it. You will be quite amazed. I mix mine about 1 part rum to two parts Dew but I like a LOT of rum in my drinks. I have tried every flavored rum I can get my hands on and like most of them. The ones I don't like are the mango kind of things. Just not my taste there. At faire I usually start off with a fifth of either coconut or vanilla rum stashed on my person for mixing with soda during the day. I am not a huge beer drinker and paying faire beer prices galls me. Soda I am willing to pay for. Scotch does mix with soda but to me it always has an odd twang when you do that so... I don't.
As for mixed drinks... scotch just can't compare. Yes there are mixed drinks that use scotch but by flat out numbers the amount of mixed drinks made with rum far exceeds scotch. If I am at a new bar the first drink I ask for is a Hurricane. That is my standard bartender test. If they make that one well then I will just ask them to make me a mixed drink with rum in it and let the surprises happen. I can't begin to tell you how many new rum drinks I have found with that method.
OK all that being said here are a few rum recommendations:
Ron Zacapa Centenario 23- Pricey but the best sipping rum I have found ever
Pyrate XO reserve- Excellent sipping rum and a decent  price
Captain Morgan Private Stock- My "go to" for spiced rum if I am not mixing with soda
Sailor Jerry- My "go to" spiced rum for when I AM mixing it with soda
Parrot bay Coconut- My favorite flavored. Excellent with hot chocolate on a cold faire morning.

*Pyrat Cask 23 is also an incredibly wonderful sipping rum but I refuse to pay the kind of prices (275-500 bucks) it demands for a bottle that wont last past the first day in my house*
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: DonaCatalina on January 08, 2011, 10:57:06 AM
Quote from: Merlin on January 07, 2011, 04:06:55 PM
So let's discuss it here and decide which rum I should try. Now... granted... just because you like it in no way means I will like it based only on "It's good" so please help me pick one.

The scotch I drink is only single malt. My faves are Highland Park 18 and 12, Aberfeldy 21, Balvenie 21, and Macallan. What makes one scotch better or different than another?
Some are fruitier, some have more of a wood flavour, some are just smoother.
What makes 1 rum better than another and which brand leans which way?

Plus it's fun to talk about rum when getting ready for fair ! ! !
Quality aged Rums are judged pretty much in the same way that brandies are.
White Rums are generally light-bodied (although there are a few heavy-bodied White Rums in the French islands). They are usually clear and have a very subtle flavor profile. If they are aged in oak casks to create a smooth palate they are then usually filtered to remove any color. White Rums are primarily used as mixers and blend particularly well with fruit flavors.

Golden Rums, also known as Amber Rums, are generally medium-bodied. Most have spent several years aging in oak casks, which give them smooth, mellow palates.

Dark Rums are traditionally full-bodied, rich, caramel-dominated Rums. The best are produced mostly from pot stills and frequently aged in oak casks for extended periods. The richest of these Rums are consumed straight up.

Añejo and Age-Dated Rums are aged Rums much in the same manner of age dated single malt whiskeys. Does that help?
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: Merlin the Elder on January 08, 2011, 10:57:27 AM
Quote from: *Teach* on January 08, 2011, 09:20:56 AM
....When it comes to mixing a quick drink nothing compares to the simplicity of coconut rum and Mountain Dew. For those of you who think I am crazy, try it....

I no longer question questionable mixers. I jumped on my wife's back for desecrating Jack Daniels by mixing with Fresca. Now I use Fresca as often as I use Coke as a mixer...when I mix.  I love straight, but it's easier on my stomach with a mixer. But back to the story, Fresca makes for a really quick-and-dirty whiskey sour type highball. And it saves me a few calories so I can watch my girlish figure...
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: Bob of the Lake on January 09, 2011, 10:30:38 AM
I enjoy both scotch and rum. (Come to think of it, I like pretty much anything that has alcohol in it!) I used to drink a lot of single malts (The Macallan, Glenlivet, Laphroaig, and Balvenie were favorites) but that was back before the single malt boom of the 90s that pretty much priced them out of reach for me. I've now traded down to blended scotch for everyday with the occasional bottle of single malt if I've been good. Same thing with rum. I love high end sipping rums but can't drink them regularly so shoot for the middle--Cruzan, or sometimes Mount Gay.  I have to agree with other posters that rum beats scotch hands down when it comes to mixed drinks--especially in the summer! A Scotch and Soda just doesn't hold a candle to a Mojito when it's 90 degrees and 90 percent humidity out!
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: Merlin on January 09, 2011, 04:03:48 PM
CRAP ! ! ! Poor planning ! It's now Sunday and I can not go get a bottle of rum to try out.

Oh well.... guess I'll have a snort of Highland Park 12 on this cold wet dreary day. That'll warm me up !
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: SirRichardBear on January 09, 2011, 07:49:05 PM
Teach the reason you don't mix scotch much is because most people know not to mess with perfection.  On the other hand its ok to mix rum after all you can only improve rum.  :P
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: Bob of the Lake on January 09, 2011, 08:32:51 PM
Quote from: Merlin on January 09, 2011, 04:03:48 PM

Oh well.... guess I'll have a snort of Highland Park 12 on this cold wet dreary day. That'll warm me up !

I'll trade you the Highland Park for some Cruzan rum if you're up for it!
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: Merlin on January 09, 2011, 08:47:30 PM
Come on over ! !
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: *Teach* on January 09, 2011, 09:41:08 PM
Rum is perfection. Perfection may be added to but it always shines through.
Scotch is imperfect. Mix it with anything and it becomes... blech.

*I know a Scot who is losing his rum rations...*
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: eloquentXI on January 10, 2011, 12:45:46 AM
My faire Uncle might disown me for not claiming rum the better but I enjoy both equally.

Mmmm, I'll take Macallan any day.

But- I am a pirate Captain after all.

Not likin' me rum would be heresy, and I expect my crew to mutiny before the thought even passes thru my head.
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: Queen Bonnie on January 10, 2011, 06:54:51 AM
 Both me and my evil pirate twin drink Scotch! It is perfection!
I am fond of the Spey side single malts- but it is all good!
We do enjoy rum at times.  Try Meyers dark rum and grapefruit juice on a hot day. Refreshing!

Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: Molden on January 10, 2011, 09:07:47 AM
You have to make a choice ???

I kid - I LOVE Scotch, and currently have some Glenlivet French Oak Finish (single-malt) for sippin' and enjoyin'.

But I lurvs me some rum as well. More like the spiced rum that's been popular of late, but white's (Bacardi, Ron Rico) and dark's (Meyer's) have their place.

For trying out, a nice spiced rum is Sailor Jerry's Navy Rum. It actually uses the spices and cherrys vs. artificial flavors/colorings used by Captain Morgan's spiced rum. Pretty cost effective for a trial run as well. And easy to pass off if you decide you don't like.

For me, I'm lovin' me some Kraken (black currant spiced rum) - but it ain't for everybody. (Why escapes me...but it's an "is". oh well)
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: SirRichardBear on January 10, 2011, 10:55:43 AM
Its OK Teach I have some 18 year old single malt I'll share with you so you can learn the errors of you ways. ;D

I do like a Rum and coke at times and of course a Hot spiced butter rum is good on a cold night.

But nothing beats a good single malt for simple slipping pleasure.
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: Laird Fraser of Lovatt on January 10, 2011, 11:40:49 AM
Quote from: SirRichardBear on January 09, 2011, 07:49:05 PM
Teach the reason you don't mix scotch much is because most people know not to mess with perfection.  On the other hand its ok to mix rum after all you can only improve rum.  :P


Where's the damn "like" button!?!
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: DonaCatalina on January 10, 2011, 01:39:39 PM
Quote from: SirRichardBear on January 10, 2011, 10:55:43 AM
Its OK Teach I have some 18 year old single malt I'll share with you so you can learn the errors of you ways. ;D

I do like a Rum and coke at times and of course a Hot spiced butter rum is good on a cold night.

But nothing beats a good single malt for simple slipping pleasure.
I had one shot of a 25 year old MacAllan once. Just the smell was like christmas eve and new years all rolled into one. The sherry oak gives it a hint of nuts and vanilla on top of its base smokey flavor.
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: Kruzar on January 10, 2011, 02:05:22 PM
I personally drink both, but normally when I goto to just drink something I start at Rum.  I personally prefer a silver or white rum to spiced rum, but they both have their place in my cabinet.  I find that the white rum is much cleaner and always makes for a good mix, and you can put it in just about everything.  Spiced rum is always great in darker mixers, and is a really good in Coke.

As for my favorites, I actually go Puerto Rican for my favorites and that means Bacardi.  My favorite is actualy Don Q rum, but can't get it except on the Island.  And if you ever make it Puerto Rico, I highly recommend going to the Bacardi factory and getting some of their aged rum.

But it is all good...
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: Merlin the Elder on January 10, 2011, 03:33:40 PM
Let me know when you folks are ready to talk about a real sipping pleasure—Single Barrel Jack Daniels. I appreciate you Scots and your Scotch, and you pirates with your rum, but we wizards like our Jack Daniels!
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: Woodland Artisan on January 10, 2011, 04:17:15 PM
I was wondering when you were going to get to that, Merlin.    Scotch and Rum are all nice, and all, for cocktail parties and such.  But, a sippin whiskey is kind to the soul and quick to the fight (as my ol pappy used to say).

A dear, sweet, kind and somewhat bat-foolish relative of the family out East presented to the rest of the family out here in the sticks of the Ozark Mountains precisely one of those barrels you mentioned for a holiday tradition near on a year ago.  Oh, yes.  Quite the escalation of tradition that year!  Our thoughts were, and still are, that he intended it to be a good stash on his infrequent pass-throughs in the area.  Nope, we've still not cracked into it.  Just admired it from near (quite near at times) and far (yet, still within sight at all times).  Afterall, how does one merely peak beneath the veneer drapery of something so wonderful and desirable ...  without ripping the whole of the velvety covering off and consuming every last drop?   ;)

JD Single Barrel, Gentleman Jack and Makers Mark 46 (bourbon) are staples in the family.  We're just simple hill people and haven't really appreciated the taste of the Irish, Canadian, etc. whiskeys.  But, when it's time to actually drink for the sake of drinking instead of with polite company ... well, it's out to the cellar.
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: Hercules on January 11, 2011, 11:26:10 AM
While at the Colorado RenFest I was told to try "Bloodberry" rum. You steep bloodberry tea (linky below) into rum (found coconut tastes best). Let it steep on a countertop for 2 weeks (or 5 hours in the Texas summer sun). Good Halloween drink too cause it does come out blood red. 

http://spicetradersteas.com/teas.htm
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: Kruzar on January 13, 2011, 03:52:08 PM
The Tea Trader is my only source for teas, and the stuff he carries is really good... one more to try... his Pirate Chai tea done in a similar preparation in Captain Morgans...  now that is a drink made for a Pirate. 
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: LadyStitch on January 14, 2011, 10:23:57 AM
The PP got a taste of real Glenlevit 18 a year ago.  He refuses to drink the other less stuff since. We have had Johnny walker blue before but to be honest, I wasn't THAT impressed.
He got hooked on sailor jerry's during a pirate show he was doing, but then we met teach this past spring at Rendevous, and tried Pyrate.  He is hooked on that now.
His sipping pleasure is JD Single barrel, and to be honest it is the only whisky  I will drink straight up.  As for makers mark, it is banned from our house, not because it is a bad drink but because of a bad bad expereince a few years back. nuf said... :-\

There is something about having a simple glass of a fine drink and sitting around chatting with friends that is missing in these times.  Every one seems to want to drink to get a buzz not drink to enjoy the flavors of the drink and company.
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: Merlin the Elder on January 14, 2011, 03:05:32 PM
I'm impressed, Lady Stitch. JD Single Barrel is not nearly as smooth going down as Gentleman Jack, but is much tastier. (It's stronger, too, in case you haven't compared proofs). Nim will drink Jack straight on occasion, GJ no problem, but JDSB has a little more "umph" to it and she's not crazy about sipping it straight.

I had my first Jack Daniels 44 years ago. I don't drink other whiskeys anymore and probably haven't for at least 25 years. I've been a Tennessee Squire these past 18 years, which deeds me a tiny portion of land in Lynchburg, Tennessee at the distillery.

If you and PP are going to be at Scarby for opening weekend, I will have something for you...
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: Bob of the Lake on January 14, 2011, 03:15:58 PM
Quote from: Merlin the Elder on January 14, 2011, 03:05:32 PM
If you and PP are going to be at Scarby for opening weekend, I will have something for you...

Some rum, perhaps? :D (ducking and running from Merlin)


Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: Merlin the Elder on January 14, 2011, 03:25:08 PM
YOU BETTER RUN, you pond-scum sucking so-and-so.... ;)

Rum has its place, Bob O, but not in my tummy!
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: LadyStitch on January 14, 2011, 04:12:32 PM
Coem heck or high water we will be at opening day Scarby  ;D
Title: Re: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: Tom on January 26, 2011, 06:21:03 PM
Just want to say that I tried Macallen 18 year old single malt tonight and was impressed.

Sent from my EVO 4G using Tapatalk.
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: DonaCatalina on March 03, 2011, 03:37:37 PM
Woo Hoo-way to go Tom.

I just had a non-scotch drinker ask me for a recommendation on a scotch. I told him about the Macallan, but I had to admit if the person he was buying for is a casual drinker, Glenmorangie or Glenlivet might be a better choice.
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: Merlin the Elder on March 03, 2011, 03:46:12 PM
no...if you want to entice someone to Scotch, it should be good Scotch. I don't like Scotch for the most part, but Macallan 18 is pretty darn good!
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: BLAKDUKE on March 03, 2011, 04:36:15 PM
Merlin the Elder:

I'm sorry sir but I have to beg to differ with you.  Crown Royal is most definitly not a bourbon it is a Rye whiskey and can be found in the rye section of most good liqour stores.  Bourbon, by law can only be made in the U.S. and Crown Royal by law can only be made in Canada.   

The BLAKDUKE
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: BLAKDUKE on March 03, 2011, 04:45:26 PM
Sorry again M.T.E:

I have a very well stocked home bar with both blended and single malt scotches and a fine array of ryes but I would not waste the space it would take to put in a bottle of J.D. of any kind.  I've had weasel snot and ox sweat that tasted better.
PATOOOIE ON J.D.

Now for single malt try Usquebah, now that is mothers milk.  I will however have to try some rum I have never had any.


Let the drinking wars begin ...................

The Blakduke
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: Merlin the Elder on March 03, 2011, 05:05:08 PM
Quote from: BLAKDUKE on March 03, 2011, 04:36:15 PM
Merlin the Elder:

I'm sorry sir but I have to beg to differ with you.  Crown Royal is most definitly not a bourbon it is a Rye whiskey and can be found in the rye section of most good liqour stores.  Bourbon, by law can only be made in the U.S. and Crown Royal by law can only be made in Canada.   

The BLAKDUKE
I misspoke, Blakduke. There is most definitely a difference between Canadian Whiskey and Bourbon. Most people don't realize that there is also a distinct difference between bourbon and sour mash whiskey. Jack Daniels is NOT a bourbon. But in all fairness, we do all have different palates. If you've tasted weasel snot and ox sweat...well, that's your thing, but no one here is knocking another's taste...we're expressing our preferences.
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: mehan on March 04, 2011, 07:01:45 AM
A very fine gentleman wandered by our group visiting TNRF - and quietly produced a flask, not saying a word.  What was in that flask was mighty fine.  I asked him what it was... "Usquebah" he replied and just as quietly walked away.

When I discovered later, just exactly what and how rare Usquebah was, I was astounded that he would have just shared it like that with complete strangers.   Faire folk, the best in the world
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: BLAKDUKE on March 04, 2011, 07:45:27 AM
Mehan:

If I may make so bold as to ask when this was.  I did this way back in the day, when a bunch of scotsmen were vendors at TNRF and I broke open a ceramic bottle of this nectar of the gods at cast party that evening.  I managed to save a bit in my flask.

The BLAKDUKE
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: mehan on March 04, 2011, 10:35:53 AM
Sure - to be honest, your profile pic kinda reminds me of the kind man.  It was memorial day weekend of either 2007 or 2008.  And yes, if you were that man, know you made a huge impression on me and years too late, may I say "grammercy". 
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: LadyStitch on March 04, 2011, 10:55:46 AM
The fastest I have ever seen friends made was when a group of us walked from camp to camp at TRF with JD single Barrel and a bottle of Pyrate rum for sharing.  I got some of the best beer I ever had out of that trade.  ;D

Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: Queen Bonnie on March 09, 2011, 09:52:49 AM
 My earliest faire memory was when a total stranger shared a taste of great scotch from a flask with Lord A and I at our first trip to TRF! We were hooked! I love the kindness and generosity of rennies!
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: Merlin on March 09, 2011, 07:09:57 PM
OK.... going to get some rum this weekend. I'll carry 2 flasks.... 1 rum.... 1 single malt !

Looking for a rum to sip... not mix... prolly gonna get a dark rum of some brand
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: Gauwyn of Bracknell on March 10, 2011, 05:39:17 AM
Quote from: Merlin on March 09, 2011, 07:09:57 PM
OK.... going to get some rum this weekend. I'll carry 2 flasks.... 1 rum.... 1 single malt !

Looking for a rum to sip... not mix... prolly gonna get a dark rum of some brand

We just this past weekend purchased and "tasted" some Kracken - maybe give it a shot (or 2 or 3 or ...)
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: Merlin on March 11, 2011, 03:57:37 PM
OK.... just got home with a bottle of Kraken,

Let's try it.... *pouring a bit into the snifter.
*swirl*

Nice chocolate color....

*sniff*

OH MY GOD ! ! The bouquet is fantastic ! !


Now for the sip.... (don't let me down... they didn't have small bottles so I had to get a big bottle)

A RUSH of flavour.... a bit strong at first.... VERY warm on the way down.
Still warm in the chest..... discerning the flavours.... I detect chocolate... a bit of spice ..... and it finishes off with a hint of vanilla.

Leaves very little after taste.


Going back for sip #2 now....

WOW ! !


OK.... I could see me getting sick on this stuff.
It has such a wonderful flavour that you just want to keep chugging it. This would make SUCH a great cold weather, by the fire, snow outside drink.

OK.... on a 1-10 scale...
I give it.... a hardy 8.
This is fantastic ! !


Thanks for the suggestion.... it will definitely make it to Scarby. I may need 3 flasks !
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: DonaCatalina on May 06, 2011, 11:01:32 AM
Here's hoping for some decent scotch at the tasting this weekend at the Rose & Crown garden
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: Merlin on May 06, 2011, 11:56:25 AM
Quote from: DonaCatalina on May 06, 2011, 11:01:32 AM
Here's hoping for some decent scotch at the tasting this weekend at the Rose & Crown garden

He said they plan on having all the best...or my faves at least...
Laphroaig
MacAllan
Balvenie
Highland Park
Glenmorangie

If I can talk my wife into taking the keys...I'm doing this.
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: eloquentXI on May 06, 2011, 02:16:36 PM
Quote from: Merlin on March 11, 2011, 03:57:37 PM
OK.... just got home with a bottle of Kraken,

Let's try it.... *pouring a bit into the snifter.
*swirl*

Nice chocolate color....

*sniff*

OH MY GOD ! ! The bouquet is fantastic ! !


Now for the sip.... (don't let me down... they didn't have small bottles so I had to get a big bottle)

A RUSH of flavour.... a bit strong at first.... VERY warm on the way down.
Still warm in the chest..... discerning the flavours.... I detect chocolate... a bit of spice ..... and it finishes off with a hint of vanilla.

Leaves very little after taste.


Going back for sip #2 now....

WOW ! !


OK.... I could see me getting sick on this stuff.
It has such a wonderful flavour that you just want to keep chugging it. This would make SUCH a great cold weather, by the fire, snow outside drink.

OK.... on a 1-10 scale...
I give it.... a hardy 8.
This is fantastic ! !


Thanks for the suggestion.... it will definitely make it to Scarby. I may need 3 flasks !

The Kraken Rum is a favorite among the girl aboard my crew and also among many of the men aboard our brethen ship, the Valkyrie's Furi. It is quite tasty by itself, and also mixed.

That being said, it has claimed more than one as falling under it's tasty guise and sent a few to overindulging. The aftermath is never pretty! Lol!
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: haleyileaha on May 06, 2011, 08:48:46 PM
I agree I like Kraken rum its tasty for sipping. Plus it comes in a cool bottle which ill admit is why I tried it to begin with but incidentally its tasty as well. 

But my judgement is in know way professional lol so all I can contribute is its Yummy. Lol

Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: C Dragonworks on May 21, 2011, 11:33:44 PM
Kraken is AWESOME...

So is this one
SANTA TERESA - 1796 - Venezuelan Aged Rum

I am a Rum drinker like I am a Vodka drinker...I do not mix mine...I like it neat or rocks best. I love a good spiced dark So many good ones...  If you like Vodka but not the aftertaste with cheap stuff RAIN is my first choice! I do not like flavoured rums...too much SWEET! Scotch is SMOOOOOOOTH stuff!!!YUM!
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: DonaCatalina on May 22, 2011, 04:37:33 PM
I added a new Scotch to my favorites list thanks to Paul. Lagavulin. The closest you will get to a Christmas cookie in a Scotch....cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger......
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: Merlin the Elder on May 23, 2011, 05:19:06 PM
Was this from the Scotch tasting at Scarby?? Tell me moor [sic]...
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: DonaCatalina on May 24, 2011, 12:02:42 PM
Yes it was actually. We had 4 scotches and some Drambuie. I didn't save the whole list but my memory is as follows

Pretty Good- Campbeltown scotches are  ot my favorite.
Excessively smoky highland scotch
Surprising very good Islay scoth- Lagavulin
Something average from Speyside.

Sorry- that's all I can remember.
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: Merlin the Elder on May 24, 2011, 02:50:15 PM
If I decide I like good Scotch, do I have to get naked under my robe?
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: DonaCatalina on May 24, 2011, 03:12:40 PM
Not that I've ever heard.  ::)  :D
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: Lady Kett on May 24, 2011, 08:14:50 PM
But that doesn't rule out that you CAN if you want to, Merlin! :)
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: Gauwyn of Bracknell on May 25, 2011, 05:49:53 AM
Quote from: Lady Kett on May 24, 2011, 08:14:50 PM
But that doesn't rule out that you CAN if you want to, Merlin! :)

Aren't we all naked under our clothes??
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: Merlin the Elder on May 25, 2011, 06:52:24 AM
I was just thinking...seems the Scots have a little more ventilation than most of us...
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: DonaCatalina on April 03, 2012, 08:14:23 AM
did Scotch win?
I lost track.
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: Merlin the Elder on April 03, 2012, 02:54:45 PM
No, Jack did.
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: Laird Fraser of Lovatt on April 04, 2012, 07:21:07 AM
Jack who?  Sparrow? :D
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: Drac on April 04, 2012, 07:33:44 AM
Little late on this but Merlin I will have some Haitian rhum in my flask if you want to try.  Some Bancourt 15.

Jim
Title: Re: Rum vs. Scotch
Post by: Merlin the Elder on April 04, 2012, 07:52:34 AM
I used to drink rum fairly regularly, but mostly the cheap stuff back in our lean days. It started giving me headaches—and I don't mean hangover type—so I got away from it. I've had some delicious rums since. 

More likely than not, if I had to give up my Jack Daniel's (not likely), I would side with rum. You can get good rum a lot cheaper than you can get good scotch (good by my tastes).