OK, a recent thread by Graham, and some other threads and references to single malts, got me wondering what the buzz (bad pun) was about. I have read good things about Macallan, Ardberg, and Laphroaig on this board. Saw some other names, but those stuck with me. So I decided to check at my local beverage supplier, and while I did not see an Ardberg, they did have Macallan, Laphroaig, Balvenie, and some others that were not familiar to me. The Balvenie sounded familiar, so I grabbed a bottle of the 10 year, they had 3 other brands, including the Doublewood. Now before I open it, did I make a wise choice? Yeah, I know that is a very subjective question, but let me know your thoughts anyway. To help understand my tastes when you are offering advice, I mainly enjoy dryer white wines for my every day, casual beverage. I really enjoy a dusky dry Merlot for special occasions and with meals that lend themselves to that taste. I don't often drink "hard" liquors other than an occasional whiskey sour (well brands) when out with friends. Probably the only "sipping" dring I have ever had and throughly enjoyed was when we went to Puerto Rico and visited the Bacardi rum distillery. They made a "sipping" rum called Anejo (can't spell it exactly without a tilda) that was fabulous and very smooth. I still wish I had some of that around.

So, let me know if I am going to enjoy the Balvenie or be disappointed.