We went beyond simply compiling a list of lesser-known yet delightful whiskies. Our goal was to encompass well-known expressions that some whisky enthusiasts may dismiss for various reasons. This selection includes familiar Scotch varieties you may have heard of but haven’t had the chance to taste, as well as exciting newcomers that could be entirely unfamiliar to you. Tasting Table’s editors have personally tried every whisky on this list, and it takes into account not only taste but also value for money and availability. All of these whiskies should be fairly easy to acquire, so you can see this as a checklist and decide for yourself how highly rated they deserve to be.
- Johnnie Walker Red Label
- Monkey Shoulder
- Talisker Skye
- Lagavulin 8-Year
- Glenfiddich 12-Year
- Bunnahabhain Stiùireadair
- Tomatin 12-Year
- Kilkerran 12-Year
- Dewar’s 12-Year
- Clynelish 14-Year
- Ardbeg Wee Beastie
- Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban 14-Year
- Caol Ila 12-Year
- Laphroaig Quarter Cask
- Loch Lomond 12-Year
Bunnahabhain Stiùireadair
Bunnahabhain Stiùireadair may be underrated because, unless you know Gaelic or are a whisky enthusiast, you probably have no idea how to pronounce it! While it can be difficult, its name is not why Bunnahabhain (Bunn-na-ha-venn) Stiùireadair (stew-rahdur) is on this list. The reason is because of where this whisky is from, the notorious island of Islay. As with the aforementioned Lagavulin 8-year, most whiskies made on this island use peat to dry the malted barley after germination. Peat imparts a distinct flavor profile and smoky quality to the final Scotch many Islay enthusiasts love. In many ways, this can be both an advantage and disadvantage for Bunnahabhain.
It helps it stick out from the crowd, but conversely, it can mean the expressions can be overlooked by those wanting an Islay whisky with the common peated taste. The main aromas with this Scotch are brine, toffee, and a subtle note of dried fruit. Moving to the palate, you’ll enjoy a captivating mix of dark chocolate, sherry influence, and gentle smoke, creating a well-balanced and complex flavor profile. Hardcore enthusiasts greatly appreciate Bunnahabhain whisky, but it’s important for those newer to Scotch not to overlook this fantastic distillery.
Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, apple.news, Tasting Table
