Showdown of the cask strength Glens!

[lockejn]

I've nearly run out of new whiskies to try on offer at my state liquor stores. I'm considering one of these cask strength beauties for purchase in the near future. Which do you prefer and why?

[pkt77242]

I am going to answer this the only way I know how. Taste off. Glenmo Astar vs 2 Nadurras.

Glenmo Astar.
Lots of vanilla. honey, malt, and some floral notes (carnations?). Feels a little lab created. Must like vanilla to enjoy this. 82 points. Nice but simple.

Nadurra Batch 0606A
Ginger and grass. Slight vanilla, and a green apple. Slight oak and some white pepper. 85 points. More complex.

Nadurra Batch 1206B (thanks for the sample Jobi)
Malt, slightly unripe apples and apple skins. Slight cardboard. Water helps. Brings out ginger, oatcakes, and some yeastiness. 72 without water. 78 with water.

hmm. Tough decision. I will choose........

Nadurra. Just seems to be more complex, though if you like vanilla the Astar would be an excellent choice.

Sean

[jimidrammer]

I have not noticed any batch variation in the Nadurra yet and I would still take it over the Astar even at the same price. They are both good but the Astar seems more like a beefed up 10yo, while the Nadurra has complexity and that fresh mint profile that sets it apart. Whichever you go for put the other on the list for later.

[orangedogofglory]

I have not had the Astar, so my input isn't particularly helpful. But, I have had a sample of the Nadurra and can say that I would not be disappointed in picking up a bottle. It was a very enjoyable dram and easy drinking for such a high ABV.

[Ganga]

Jimi gives a very good description of the Astar, a beefed up 10. Astar is much more on the malty side while the Nadurra exemplies fresh fruits. There does seem to be a little variation in the batches but the various ones I've had present some fresh greens, green apples, pineapples and some other citric fruits.

[steveblack]

I have not noticed any batch variation in the Nadurra yet and I would still take it over the Astar even at the same price. They are both good but the Astar seems more like a beefed up 10yo, while the Nadurra has complexity and that fresh mint profile that sets it apart. Whichever you go for put the other on the list for later.

+1

Most of the Glenmo range seem to be similar with only the intensity separating them. At least to me. That is not to suggest it is bad, I like them. But Nadurra ahead of Astar/Lasanta/Nectar/Original for me.

[Deactivated Member]

I dont know which Nadurra batch you have over there. I have the 0109G sat in front of me. Quite nice and even with no water added ( 53.6% ) it goes down very easy, even too easy. The Astar i've just finished was far too minty ( for some reason ). Others dont mention the mint - maybe its just me but for that reason i'd go for the Nad.

[Drammed]

Nadurra is miles ahead of the Astar.

I am a little baised though as I have a bottle of Nadurra in my "zombie Apocalypse" cabinet

[Willie JJ]

Whichever you go for put the other on the list for later.

I concur. The Nadurra is better value (at least in the UK) but I would be surprised if you didn't find them both to be enjoyable whiskies.