The Top 5 Whiskies for a Night In: Dads looking to try a new drop
Whisky, with its rich tapestry of flavours and long-standing tradition, can seem intimidating and have no idea where to start. Yet, the world of whisky offers a range that it can be a journey to find the one that you like. As a beginner or someone looking to expand what their palette is, it’s ideal to start with whiskies that are smoother, less complex, and offer a gentle introduction to this vast universe. Below are five such whiskies, perfect for those who are just wetting their taste buds.
1. Glenfiddich 12-Year-Old:
Region: Scotland
This single malt scotch is among the world’s best-selling and most recognised. It offers a wonderful introduction to the characteristic fruitiness of malts. With hints of pear, apple, and subtle oak, the Glenfiddich 12 is not overly complex but still provides a delightful array of flavours. Its smooth finish makes it easy on the palate, proving an excellent starting point for beginners.
2. Jameson Irish Whiskey:
Region: Ireland
Jameson is a household name when it comes to Irish whiskey. Triple-distilled for extra smoothness, it is characterised by its light, floral fragrances and an undertone of spicy wood. On the palate, one can detect a nice balance of spicy, nutty, and vanilla notes with hints of sweet sherry. Jameson’s mellow nature and lack of peaty smokiness (a trait found in some scotch whiskies) make it a favourite for those new to the whisky world.
3. Woodford Reserve:
Region: USA
If you’re keen on exploring the sweeter side of whiskies, American bourbon is a great choice. A distinguished expression from one of Kentucky’s revered distilleries. This unique bourbon undergoes a second maturation in deeply toasted, oak barrels, this creates a richer flavour profile.
4. Yamazaki 12-Year-Old:
Region: Japan
Japanese whiskies have been gaining international acclaim over the past few decades, and Yamazaki is one of the pioneers in this category. The 12-Year-Old variant is a splendid introduction to Japanese whisky. It provides a harmonious blend of flavours, ranging from peach, pineapple, and grapefruit, to a subtle touch of Japanese Oak. The taste is a delicate balance of sweet and sour, perfect for those who appreciate nuance.
5. Monkey Shoulder:
Region: Scotland
Unlike the others on this list, Monkey Shoulder is a blended malt whisky, meaning it’s a mix of single malts from different distilleries. With dominant notes of orange, vanilla, and spiced oak, it’s not just for beginners but also appreciated by seasoned whisky lovers.
Conclusion
For many, whisky is an acquired taste. But with the right introductory, the acquisition can be both smooth and enjoyable. The five whiskies listed above serve as gentle gateways, offering a variety of flavours without overwhelming the senses. As with any journey, the world of whisky is best explored at one’s own pace, taking time to savour each experience. As an added tip, these aren’t made to be mixed with coke but if you want to add something as you get introduced into the world of whiskey i would recommend cloudy apple juice (but reduce it over time). So, raise a glass to new beginnings and embark on a flavorful adventure that can last a lifetime. Cheers!
