Top 10 Whiskies You Absolutely Need to Try (According to Us!)
Feeling overwhelmed by the world of whisky? We've compiled a list of 10 whiskies that offer a fantastic starting point, covering a range of styles and price points. Get ready to explore the dram good world of whisky!
So, You Want to Get Into Whisky? Here's Where to Start!
The world of whisky can seem daunting. Scotch, bourbon, rye, Japanese… where do you even begin? Fear not, intrepid drinker! We've curated a list of 10 whiskies that offer a fantastic introduction to the diverse and delicious world of this spirit. This isn't just about the most expensive or the rarest bottles; it's about finding whiskies that are approachable, flavourful, and representative of their style.
Our Top 10 Whisky Picks:
- Glenfiddich 12 Year Old: A classic Speyside Scotch. Fruity, smooth, and easy-drinking – the perfect entry point. Think pears, honey, and a hint of spice.
- Maker's Mark: A wheated bourbon from Kentucky. Known for its soft, sweet flavour profile, featuring caramel, vanilla, and gentle oak. Great in an Old Fashioned!
- Highland Park 12 Year Old: A slightly peated Scotch from Orkney. Offers a balanced flavour of smoke, heather honey, and citrus. A step up for those curious about peat.
- Jameson Irish Whiskey: A triple-distilled Irish whiskey. Incredibly smooth and versatile, with notes of vanilla, spice, and toasted wood. Perfect neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail.
- Rittenhouse Rye Bottled-in-Bond: A bold and spicy rye whiskey. Offers a kick of pepper, cinnamon, and dried fruit. Essential for a proper Manhattan or Sazerac.
- Nikka From The Barrel: A blended Japanese whisky. A powerhouse of flavour, with notes of fruitcake, spice, and a touch of oak. Excellent value for money.
- Lagavulin 16 Year Old: A heavily peated Scotch from Islay. Not for the faint of heart! Expect intense smoke, seaweed, and medicinal notes. An acquired taste, but unforgettable.
- Buffalo Trace Bourbon: A widely available and well-regarded bourbon. Offers a classic bourbon profile of vanilla, caramel, and spice. A great all-rounder.
- Monkey Shoulder: A blended malt Scotch whisky. A blend of three Speyside single malts, designed for mixing. Smooth, fruity, and approachable.
- Talisker 10 Year Old: A maritime Scotch from the Isle of Skye. Offers a unique combination of smoke, pepper, and brine. A taste of the sea!
A note on enjoying your whisky: Don't be afraid to experiment! Try it neat, with a splash of water, or on the rocks. The right way to drink whisky is the way you enjoy it most. Consider investing in a good nosing glass (a Glencairn is a popular choice) to help you appreciate the aromas.
This list is just a starting point, of course. There are countless other fantastic whiskies out there waiting to be discovered. But these 10 bottles offer a great introduction to the different styles and flavours that whisky has to offer. So grab a glass, pour yourself a dram, and start exploring!
Cheers to your whisky journey!