Whisky 2016 -- Rebalancing to 50/50 Ratio to add more Single-Malts

Whisky Collection Plans for 2016 and Beyond

Introduction

I'm excited to share my plan for building back up my whisky collection in 2016. After years of indecision, I'm going all-in on learning about my preferences in various Scotch whiskies. This means I will be actively purchasing more bottles to explore the world of whisky.

Consumption Rates

My overall whisky consumption has been consistent, averaging around 175 mL per week. This is roughly equivalent to a six-pack of lite beer, which is relatively modest. Over the course of a month, this amounts to about 750 mL (or one bottle), and annually translates to approximately 9 liters, equating to 12 bottles.

Consumption Ratios (Blends vs. Single Malts)

• First Half of 2016: 80% Blends / 20% Single Malts

  • 5 Blended Whiskies
  • 1 Single Malt (Glenfiddich 12)

• Second Half of 2016: 50% Blends / 50% Single Malts

  • 3 Blended Whiskies
  • 3 Single Malts

The 80/20 ratio turned out to be somewhat dull, allowing me to enjoy only a single bottle of Single Malt. While Johnnie Walker Black was pleasant and Johnnie Walker Red acceptable, drinking the same whiskies for several months became uninteresting. I'm optimistic that the 50/50 ratio will be more enjoyable without significantly increasing costs.

Recent Purchases

To move towards my 50/50 goal, I've recently picked up three bottles:

• Johnnie Walker - Black
• Macallan 12 Year Old
• Laphroaig 10 Year Old

These additions bring me closer to my desired ratio, and I still have some Glenfiddich 12 on hand.

In a month or so, I plan to add two more bottles:

• Lagavulin 16 Year Old
• Johnnie Walker - Green

This will help balance my collection and provide additional options for tasting.

2017 Plan

Looking ahead to next year, I’m excited about the opportunity to expand my collection to a full twelve bottles while maintaining a year’s supply on hand. Some bottles will be mainstays, and I'll replace them as needed, but I also plan to leave slots open for exploring new brands and finding potential mainstays.

Planned Collection

• Blended

  • Johnnie Walker - Red x 2 *
  • Johnnie Walker - Black x 2 *
  • Johnnie Walker - Green
  • Monkey Shoulder

• Single Malt

  • Macallan 12 *
  • Highland Park 12 *
  • Laphroaig 10 *
  • Oban 14
  • Lagavulin 16
  • Glenmorangie 10

• Special

  • Macallan 18
  • Johnnie Walker - Blue

(* My Mainstay Brands)

I'm particularly excited about the Johnnie Walker Green, which is said to be a mix of Caol Ila and Talisker, among other blends. It sounds phenomenal. Additionally, I will reserve some space for special occasion bottles, starting with Macallan 18 Year Old and Johnnie Walker Blue Label.