Tomcat Courtney — Downsville Blues (2008) @@@@

Thomas "Tomcat" Courtney (1929–2021) was born in Texas, moved to San Diego in 1971, and began playing regularly in local clubs. He released some recordings on his own before having Bob Corritore produce this album for Blue Witch Records. Courtney is joined by Chris James on second guitar, with about half the tracks also featuring a rhythm section and Bob's tasteful harmonica. Three of the songs are old blues standards, including Meet Me In The Bottom, which can be traced back to Blind Boy Fuller's Boots and Shoes, Bottle It Up and Go, first recorded by Tommy McClennan, and Crying Won't Help You by Tampa Red. The remaining tracks are Courtney's originals, though I Wonder immediately brings Smokestack Lightning to mind with its classic guitar riff. Tomcat's playing is very strong across the whole record, with occasional solid slide work, and his vocals are quite soulful and powerful. This is real deep Texas-style blues, full of feeling, with some influence from the great Lightnin' Hopkins. A very enjoyable recording that's easy to put on repeat.

My 100th post in 2025.

Ben Nevis 2005/2023 tasting notes

Ben Nevis 17YO Blackadder 70cl 56.1% ABV
Ingelred series
Distilled 05.2005, bottled 04.2023
Cask type: Bourbon
Cask no. 398
Bottle 171 / 248 (different number on the stock photo)


Color: golden.
Nose: apricots, damp oak, clay, cloves, floor wax, rubber, grapes, marshmallow, oatmeal cookies, rose pepper, wool, vanilla, marzipan, yellow apples, figs, pickles in brine, chocolate, tar soap, meadow herbs, and savory notes. Very nice.
Taste: apricots, chocolate, cocoa, green apples, pepper, pears, gooseberries, mint, and limes. Smooth, with sweetness nicely balanced by acidity.
Finish: pears, green apples, apricots, chocolate, cocoa, pepper, wood, licorice, and mint gingerbread.
Score: 9. Between good and excellent. +2+2+2.

Conclusion: what a wonderful bourbon cask Ben Nevis! Nearly eighteen years old, dangerously drinkable. No need to add water, the malt shines on its own and does not need any time to open up. 91/100. These Ingelreds are something.