Whether it’s music, restaurants, films, or bars, there are always things that don’t get the appreciation they deserve, and Scotch is no different. There are several reasons that a whisky may be underrated, with one being that it doesn’t have the level of popularity it deserves. While that’s a credible reason, we wanted to look beyond just having a list of obscure yet delicious whiskies. We also wanted to include popular expressions that some whisky enthusiasts look down upon for one reason or another.
This list may include popular Scotches you’ve heard of but not yet tried, while it also hopefully includes some that will be completely new 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
Johnnie Walker Red Label
It may seem a little curious to include such a popular whisky, but there are some justifiable reasons why this is an underrated Scotch. The Red Label is often overshadowed by its more premium counterparts. Jonnie Walker markets its expressions via colors, with Red being the youngest and cheapest of the lot. The next step up is the Black Label, which receives much more acclaim as an affordable yet delicious blended whisky. We’re not pretending that the Red Label is a fantastic Scotch, but it’s a versatile and well-balanced blend that delivers a smooth and accessible taste.
Most often used for mixing in cocktails, Red Label is also good enough for casual sipping. That can’t be said for many other Scotches in this price range. The nose is a little shallow, but you get some fruits and a hint of smokiness. The palate reveals a pleasant sweetness with touches of vanilla and a subtle warmth. Some may turn their noses up at affordable whisky, but we see blends such as this as a good gateway into the world of Scotch. If you’re new to Scotch or are on a budget, you can’t go wrong with a bottle of Red Label.
Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, apple.news, Tasting Table
