I had to report some recent findings.
I really really like the Jim Beam Black.
Based on NadB's suggestion I bought a bottle of the Wild Turkey 101. I like the taste, but after one or two good drinks my heart starts pounding, especially when I lay down to go to bed. I can hear/feel my heart beating in my ear and it keeps me awake. I don't think the 101 agrees with me for some reason. They do have an 80 proof vesion so perhaps I will try that one.
Jordan Mills on choosing Tech:
“It’s a great experience seeing them play. It was a good atmosphere. The fans stood up the whole game and never sat down. They have a great fan base.”
Johnnie Walker Black Label....
''Don't be a bad dagh..."
Pretty good article on the rising popularity of bourbon.
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/25520630/
I'm switching back to Knob Creek as my normal drink after finishing off a bottle of Maker's Mark finally. KC's just a little bit smoother than MM. Gentleman Jack is right out. I may try Jim Beam Black or JW Black based on recommendations here.
"To announce that there must be no criticism of the president, or that we are to stand by the president right or wrong, is not only unpatriotic and servile, but is morally treasonable to the American public." - Theodore Roosevelt
Single malt scotches to try:
Glengoyne small spot in Pasley, (highlands) sits on the spring, so has really good consistency. Try to get the 12 or 17, have had the 21, and although pricey, very nice. The long time spent in the barrel strenghtens the color and taste.
Glenrothes (speyside) not found in US until a couple of years ago. Very nice, and the short squatty bottle packs better for the road trips.
For a little different experience look for a cask strength bottle of any of the single malts. You will typically need to cut this with a little water, but will show you just how full they can be in the cask.
Around here the house brand is Turkey. But a very good and generally less expensive favorite is Dickel black label. A real bourbon flavor, just a little smokey.
Sorry for the late reply Rabidawg. Blanton's if you can find it is around $45 per 750ml. Eagle Rare I really recommend - about $34 per 750 ml. Bulliet the upper $20's. I'm drinking Jim Beam Black now. It is really good and probably the best value along with Bulliet. I can buy a 1.5 liter bottle for upper $20's. These are Houston Spec's prices.
Anyone here been to Spec's in downtown Houston. Three full city blocks - an adult beverage playground.