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Rating Scale

Deciding how to rate whisky was a very tough decision when I started my YouTube channel. My earliest notes are just "buy" or "don't buy" with a couple of taste descriptions. Then, I experimented with a few different systems and apps but never really when with the full 100 point system till much later. Here, and on my channel, I wanted a simpler system. I was drawn to the "Must Have! ... Avoid" system on ScotchNoob, but then settled on a five point scale, since at the time I was using Distiller.com on my phone for quick look-ups when at a store. I've stuck with it, but I have really felt the need to move to at least a 10 point scale to try to get better variation between good whiskies. Anyway here is a simple breakdown of my star rating when you hear it or read about it;

Really incredible liquid. This ideally represents the genre or region or is just plain amazing. I would spend money I don't have to share this with friends!

Excellent whisky. Seek this out if it is in a style you know you like or at least try this when you get the chance.

Good choice for mixing or if you like your whisky with ice. An OK place to start, but there will be better expressions out there. A lot of whisky seems to fall in to this category.

Not very good. Something in the nose or taste has put me off. It may not come up for you, but I will certainly not purchase this bottle again.

Um this means it is so bad I likely have poured out the glass or bottle. Perhaps if you have a fascination with horrible tastes give it a go, otherwise, there are so many other bottles to explore!

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