WHISKY REVIEW SCORING GUIDE

AQUA VITAE
 (10.0-8.6)
"Find it. Hoard it."
The nectar of the gods. These spirits are gifts from above in every way. For me, whiskies in this category are characterized by euphoric aroma and flavor profiles that never cease to challenge and delight me with their complex vibrance and intricately woven structure. The finish is heavenly and lasting. These spirits are to be savored and treasured as water of life! 

    SPELLBINDING 
        (8.5-7.0) 
"You have chosen...wisely."
The celebratory whiskies. Slow down and get to know these spirits. They may call you back time and time again.  Aromas and flavor profiles that are dynamic and teeming with life. The finish makes its impact but beckons you back for another sip. These spirits have a progression and evolution that challenge the mind and senses. Pop the corks on these beauties to celebrate with friends or to treat yourself on occasion!

    GOOD STUFF
       (6.9-5.5)
"Whisky worth sharing!" 
The everyday whiskies in your cabinet. Usually simple, pleasant aromas and flavor profiles with few flaws or off-flavors. Little or no harsh finishes or residual bitterness. Enough complexity to keep you anticipating the next sip or sniff.  Not the celebratory spirits, but delicious enough to enjoy at the end of the day or to share with friends. These pass my standards to make it into my whisky cabinet on a regular basis!

    STANDARD
         (5.4-4.0)
      "Run-of-the-Mill."
These are among the more typical and commonplace breeds. They neither offend nor excite the senses. While some spirits cause your brain to run wild, these more subtle whiskies require little cerebral activity. Want a tame dram to help you wind down and put your mind at ease? These are the ones for you! If you want a dram to challenge you and provide a bit of excitement, perhaps look elsewhere.

 SECOND-RATE
       (3.9-2.5)
    "Try, but don't buy." 
These whiskies are typically flawed on several levels. Aroma and flavor profiles are usually simple and perhaps a bit flat. It is common that these spirits have a few off-putting flavors or too much raw alcohol up front that really takes away from the experience. Give these a try for yourself, but approach them at your own risk. 

     ABOMINABLE 
        (2.4-0.0) 
"Dram at your own risk."
These are the brash, caustic, offensive, immature, or just-plain-bad bottles of spirit out there. For whatever reason, these whiskies and my taste buds don't get along. Weird off-flavors, bad casks, dissonant flavor combinations, etc... These represent the swill at the bottom of the barrel for me, folks. If you must embrace them, do so with extreme caution!

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