Is single malt scotch an aquired taste?

Question

When I first tried regular blended scotch, I hated it, but someone told me it will grow on you, so stick with it. I did, and Chivas Regal is now my favorite drink. However, I then tried some of the premium single malt, Glenlivet, and again, I didn't particularly care for it, but am hoping it will get better over time. Is there something I should be looking for when drinking single malt? Is it similiar to wine, in that when you learn about it, and know what to look for, it enhances the experience and taste?

Answer 1

I took to Scotch the moment I tried it.  Both blend and single malt.  Glenlivet is a bit harsh.  Try Glenmorange or Macallam (15 year old is a good starting point).

Answer 2

Scotch as any alcohol is an acquired taste. I can't drink distilled alcohol straight.

Answer 3

Very much so-an acquired taste. But if you just a water to them they are very enjoyable.

NOT LIKE WINE AT ALL.

Answer 4

Yes it's definitely an acquired taste.  As for what you should be looking for, the bottom line is look for something you like.  It'll take some experimentation, so your best bet will be trying it in bars rather than buying bottles, because if you pay $20 to HOLY c**p HOW MUCH? for a bottle and don't like it, you just wasted it.  Instead of going to your average nightclub or the corner bar, find places that are a little higher end.  They're more likely to have a greater variety of single malts.  Bars in nicer hotels and restaurants are a good place to start.  I wouldn't recommend higher end/fancy NIGHTCLUBS, because they pretty much stick with what's trendy, not necessarily good.  

You can also experiment with how you prefer to drink your Scotch.  To me, anything other than neat (straight up, no water, no ice) is sacreligious, but some like it on the rocks or with anywhere from a splash of water to a half and half mix of water and Scotch.

As for brands, my personal favorites are Lagavulin (very nice smoky/peat smell and flavor), Glenmorangie, and Glen Garioch.  Macallan's another good one.  Two of the best known and seemingly popular in the U.S. are Glenfiddich and Glenlivet.  They're okay, but once you learn what else is out there, you won't go back to them.

Answer 5

no