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
Tomatin 12-Year
Although you should want to avoid automatically equating lesser-known with underrated, it is also important to give some love to those whiskies that don’t get the attention they should receive. If you’ve already tasted all the expressions on this list, Tomatin 12-year should be the perfect Scotch for you. This Highland single malt offers a superb balance of flavors and a smooth, approachable character. You get a warm collection of orchard fruits, honey, and subtle malt on the nose that draws you into the tasting experience.
The palate unfolds with an impressive interplay of flavors, the most unique being that of ripe apples. It’s joined by vanilla and spice to give it an impressive depth of character for a 12-year Scotch. It also strikes a perfect balance between having a youthful vibrancy and the sophistication of a mature whisky. It may not be as widely recognized as some other single malts, yet Tomatin 12-year remains a hidden gem for those who appreciate a well-crafted, smooth Highland whisky.
Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, apple.news, Tasting Table
