Firsthand reviews. No sponsored rankings.

Reviews from the things I actually try

Cigars, beer, spirits, food, fragrance, and whatever comes next—organized in one searchable journal.

52 reviews

Scotch

Ardbeg an oa review photo
Scotch

Ardbeg An Oa

Not yet rated

a lot smoother than the 5-year, but not nearly as smoky. I think overall I like it more although I miss the smokiness from the other one. Has an almost medicinal flavor to it but not in a b…

Reviewed Jul 13, 2026Read full review
ardbeg 5 review photo
Scotch

Ardbeg 5

3/10

smokey, a bit not smooth. Good taste, but the not smoothness of it is a bit of a downer. I will give this a 3.

Reviewed Jul 13, 2026Read full review
Hudson Maple rye review photo
Scotch

Hudson Maple Rye

9/10

this is great, a hint of maple, just enough to give it character. Smooth, not too sweet like I was worried about. 9/10

Reviewed Jul 13, 2026Read full review
Benromach Peat smoke review photo
Scotch

Benromach Peat Smoke

7/10

definitely smokey, pretty smooth. Mild for a peaty scotch. Pretty enjoyable, 16 bucks a glass. Lacking a bit of depth, is give it a 7

Reviewed Jul 13, 2026Read full review
Glenlivet 18 review photo
Scotch

Glenlivet 18

6/10

lots of complexity, not super smooth, not bad, was around 20 bucks for a shot at the bar. A bit of a bitter wood hits at the beginning. I'd give it around a 6

Reviewed Jul 13, 2026Read full review

A consistent 1–10 system

What the scores mean

1–3 Skip it

4–6 Mixed to good

7–8 Recommended

9–10 Exceptional