[NYFriend]

No, no, no. Johnnie Black, or Gold (Premium, AKA Green outside of the U.S. is basically the same as Gold, just a bit more expensive). I've got 3/4 of a bottle of Blue, what's left from the bottle my wife bought be for Christmas. I think that Premium is the best for the money, followed closely by Black, The blue is very good, much better than Black, but much more expensive. My wife actually bought mine at the duty free at Heathrow. We were traveling separatly, and I was upset that she spent so much on booze. I got over it. Black for the exchange runs about 1/5th the cost of Blue at the exchange.

I don't much care for Dewars. I like Craggenmore as a single malt. Frankly thought, I drink blends.

[Captain Beyond]

You can't beat the "Blue". It the smoothest thing there is. I got a couple of fifth's when I first saw it advertised in Cigar Aficionado.( Rush was on the cover.) I think it was 1996 or 97. You don't need ice and water for the "Blue" but I prefer it that way.

[Fifth Business]

I think that Premium is the best for the money, followed closely by Black, The blue is very good, much better than Black, but much more expensive.

Very nicely stated. I like the Blue better than the Gold, but it's just not worth the money if you imbibe regularly. The Gold is a great value at $50-60. It's exquisite.

Have you found a single malt that has the same balance? I've tried dozens, but they are so idiosyncratic and imbalanced that I keep returning to JW. I do like The MacAllen, but I am suspicious that the sherry may be providing some of the body on the mid-palate and flavor on the finish.