8 Best Scottish Whisky's You Need to Try
As whisky connoisseurs, we’re constantly looking for the best whiskies on the land.
Whisky preferences differ from person to person. However, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best and most popular Scottish whiskies that you need to try at least once in your life!
From the delicate, floral aromas of Speyside to the smoky depths of Islay, each area presents a different interpretation of this cherished drink. So, sit back, relax, and join us as we explore eight of the best Scottish whiskies.
1. Glenfiddich, 12-Year-Old (Speyside)
Glenfiddich 12-year-old Speyside whisky offers a fresh and fruity taste with notes of apple, pear, oak, and malt, perfect for those with a sweet tooth.
This ranks so high over other whiskies due to its creamy and smooth profile. This single malt was also one of the first to market its whisky outside of Scotland, becoming a beloved classic across the globe.
- Price range: £30-£40
- Why it’s a must-try: This whisky offers a consistent and enjoyable experience. It provides a delicious taste, whether neat, on the rocks, or added to a cocktail.
2. Lagavulin, 16-Year-Old (Islay)
Rich and smoky, the Lagavulin 16-year-old Islay Whisky includes notes of seaweed, iodine, and a hint of sweetness.
This was first introduced in 1816 and has since grown in popularity due to its smoky and peaty profile. This is topped off by a touch of spice and oak, and hints of dried fruit and cherry.
- Price range: £60-£70
- Why it’s a must-try: This is ideal for those who appreciate heavily peated spirits. For a unique experience, pair it with strong cheeses and smoked meats, as they complement each other.
3. The Macallan Sherry Oak 18-Year-Old (Speyside)
The Macallan Sherry Oak 18-year-old whisky is for the refined palette of a whisky connoisseur.
This whisky offers notes of ginger, vanilla, and dried fruits alongside prominent flavours of dark chocolate and a scent of sherry. With warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg and subtle hints of orange and oak, it is truly a unique and complex drink.
- Price range: £250-£300
- Why it’s a must-try: This luxurious whiskey showcases the depth and complexity of sherry cask ageing, ideal for the collector. This is the drink for commemorating special occasions.
4. Talisker 10-Year-Old (Isle of Skye)
The Talisker 10-Year-Old whisky is beloved for its maritime essence and deep complexity.
With hints of salt, smoke, and citrus, this drink is complemented by sweet malt, black pepper, and a touch of brine. Talisker is the only distillery on the Isle of Skye, producing whiskey with a distinctive maritime character.
- Price range: £40-£50
- Why it’s a must-try: Its bold and smoky profile is perfect for those who love strong whisky. This is best enjoyed by the sea and paired with seafood dishes.
5. Oban 14-Year-Old (Highland)
Rich and full of flavour, the Oban 14-year-old Highland whisky provides hints of honey, smoke, and citrus.
This layered palate offers a unique drinking experience, with orange and lemon flavours at the forefront and hints of dried figs and spices. Founded in 1794, the Oban distillery is a prominent figure in the history of highland whisky.
- Price range: £60-£70
- Why it’s a must-try: This whisky combines a coastal influence with rich flavours, perfect for whisky enthusiasts or those branching out from traditional whisky.
6. Glenkinchie, 12-Year-Old (Lowland)
The Glenkinchie 12-year-old is renowned for its light profile, the epitome of Lowland whiskies.
With its creamy and smooth palate, this whisky offers floral aromas of grass and citrus with flavours of vanilla, nut, and sweet malt. This is a refreshing whisky, perfect for lovers of sweeter drinks.
- Price range: £35-£45
- Why it’s a must-try: The delicate profile of Glenkinchie whiskeys is a result of the long fermentation and slow distillation processes of the distillery. This makes it a must-try for those seeking a more nuanced dram.
7. Highland Park, 18-Year-Old (Orkney Islands)
Highland Park 18-Year-Old Whisky is one of the best Scottish whiskies due to its balance and complex profile.
This is created using traditional whisky methods derived from the Orkney Islands, producing a deliciously smooth whisky. Within this concoction, you will find fruity aromas, hints of dark chocolate and toffee, and a subtle peat smoke. This also features layers of cinnamon, nutmeg, and dried fruits.
- Price range: £120-£150
- Why it’s a must-try: This well-rounded whiskey showcases how well sweet and smoky flavours blend together, pairing well with smoked meats and cheeses. It also offers an unbeatable mouthfeel.
8. Ardbeg, 10-Year-Old (Islay)
The Ardbeg 10-Year-Old Islay whisky is at the forefront of Islay’s offerings, with its bold and complex profile.
This whisky combines smoky and citrusy aromas with a medicinal note reminiscent of tar and iodine. Hints of lime and lemon add a sweet taste to the drink, balancing out the strong peaty smoke. Sweet vanilla and a touch of black pepper soften the flavour.
- Price range: £45-£55
- Why it’s a must-try: Ardbeg 10 is a quintessential Islay whiskey for those who love their whiskies strong. This also features notes of espresso, dark chocolate, and seaweed for a groundbreaking experience. Enjoy this with BBQ dishes and smoked fish.
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