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. We 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
Talisker Skye
Another common reason that a whisky can be underrated is if it’s a NAS Scotch. NAS stands for “no age statement,” which means that the distillery doesn’t publish how long the spirit has been matured for. However, due to the laws of what is defined as a Scotch, we know that all these whiskies need to be matured for at least three years. There are a few reasons that a distillery won’t put an age statement on its whisky. It means the distillery is not under pressure to meet what can be an arbitrary number and can simply bottle the whisky when it’s ready, regardless of how old it is.
Talisker Skye is often underrated for this reason. The presumption with NAS whisky is that it will be harsh and immature. A taste of Talisker Skye shows that isn’t true. You get plenty of notes of the nose, with the sea breeze and maritime influences of this island whisky being notable. The palate gives you a blend of sweet malt with subtle salinity and smoke. Added to these notes is a fruitiness which contributes to this being a well-rounded and accessible whisky. It’s proof that a Scotch doesn’t need an age statement to be a great pour.
Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, apple.news, Tasting Table
