Buckwheat honey overlaid with heather florals on the nose. I think there might be a hint in the title of the post and the question it poses Robert. When I was first introduced to scotch someone suggested this as a very cheap, but decent, option. Ha yes, the order is crucial, great point Dave! I am a converted ex-Bourbon drinker. Explodes in the mouth with no bad aftertaste. Craggenmore I personally wasnt very impressed with this one. Best Under $50: The Glenlivet 12 Year Old. I want to take exception to those who would criticize McClellands. My quest is to find the malt (substitute wine, beer etc.) Famous Grouse is better than Dewars for around the same price depending on promotions. My fave but price keeps increasing is not necessarily cheap but absolutely love is the Balvenie 15 single barrel (Great, great one). What should you look for in a great, everyday scotch? Now the Dalmore King Alexander III, is not [a] cheap whisky at about $250 a bottle but knocks the socks off whiskies that are 2x or more cost. At 46% ABV, its big, but goes down easy. steer clear of dalwinnie, and glenmorangie. Glendronach 1993 is a 25-year-old Single Malt whisky from Scotland. had trepidations, but i like to roll the dice. Blended but a good, reasonably priced Scotch.Johnnie Walker Black. Also, each bottle is robust, bold, and deeply intense, making it a great, high-quality whisky. got them both on sale, Aberlour for 20 UKP and Laphroaig for 28.50 I even got my Glenlivet 18 on sale (just before Fathers Day lots of whisky goes on sale here). Many were less than stellar. our process. If youre looking for an enjoyable spot with the best whiskey selections, Denver is known for its diverse whiskey bars, whether youre looking for A perfect pair of lemon and vodka is a match made in A good bourbon can be expensive and difficult to find, but if Top 15 Single Malt Scotch Whiskies Under $100, 15. Not devoid of sweetness, but only as a background balancer. Ha Jim will post this comment because he loves it. Macgavins Highland Single Malt Scotch, 11. Cant go wrong: Speyburn a 10 year old serve it disguised and see how they like it. Just picked up a bottle of Glen Ness 12 for $23 and simply loving it. Auchentoshan Classic is also very smooth, sweet, nutty, and eminently drinkable. Dewar's 15-Year-Old. Owned by and backbone of the Johnny Walker blends. DevilD. Instead, a softer whisky, a bit buttery with hints of caramel and nuts balanced by freshening citrus and apple flavors. Is cheaper scotch made differently? The worlds bestselling Scotch whisky, first created by grocer John Walker in the 1820s, is a solid blended dram and a sure value, says Desoblin. Youll be falling in love with the stuff before you can say Scotchy Scotch Scotch.. My question is what should I try next? I also saw the poster above me talk about the Tomatin 12 which I saw at the Sams Club for $24 I believe. The peats not as strong as the 12yo. I still have one with just a taste in the bottom, for nostalgias sake. Created in 1899, this highly affordable blended Scotch whisky possesses solid archetypical flavors. I know they went up in Maryland. Their 15yo single cask is hovering near 90 bucks! For the most bang for your buck, go with our top pick: Johnnie Walker Black Label (view at Drizly). The Highland maker ages the spirit in ex-bourbon barrels for a decade in the tallest pot stills in Scotland. I like to look and have always dreamed of getting a JW Blue, but in recent months have at least looked on the shelves at some single malts. I would also welcome anyone else who would like to give me their list. His choice was an Aberlour 100 proof, which came in a nearly cubic molded bottle, with the shoulders tapering up the corked top. We, together with another colleague, shared a number of those bottles while we worked together. GLEN MORAY CLASSIC Glen Moray Classic is an entry-level single malt, although it's still been aged for an average of seven years. I live in a state where grocers cant sell alcohol so our Trader Joes dont carry that Lismore Speyside though it sounds like a great value at $17. As prices of name brand single malts continue to climb I would recommend the following: Islay: Bowmore legend is acceptable, 12 yr is better. Glenmorangie Signet: Dry and Decadent. Glenlivet 12 Year Old. The prose on the attractive tube was somewhat more impressive than the contents. It is a high-proof sherry bomb, bold whisky from the Northernmost distillery. If you are looking for a gift for your favorite scotch lover but dont want to buy scotch, you can always try these, As funny as it sounds, glassware does make a huge difference because it can help accentuate your scotch. I have likened it in my mind to a slightly cheaper Macallan 12, just a little younger, and so not as mellow. Ive tried two of their varieties (Highland and Speyside) and found them both fantastic. Independent bottlings perhaps? Balblair Single Malt Scotch 2000 12. The old expression "you get what you pay for" mostly holds up, but the goal in shopping for a quality bottle is to seek out every hard-earned pennys worth of flavor to maximize enjoyment to the last drop. I have not tried the Macallan 18 yet but I will be surprised if it is better than the Glenlivet. Ah, the Balvenies; long may they mature . In Laphroaig scotch, peat flavor is at the forefront. Age: 6 years. Light, easy and imminently sippable, this Speyside scotch is aged in former bourbon barrels, so it doesnt have the excessively sweet sherry profile of many of its neighbors. Lovely site, Jim! Tomintoul Single Malt whisky is an award-winning Scotch whisky and has gathered multiple awards in International Wine and Spirits Competition. When a bottle of cheap, blended scotch displays its age in months rather than years, that's. Great article, Jim. If you like a slightly peaty single malt for a reasonable price try ledaig from the island of mull. By law, Scotch whisky must contain 40 percent ABV. I dont recall encountering Bowmore previously, but Im certainly enjoying it. Its funny, I was just back in Scotland for a holiday and a bottle of JW blue was 135 a bottle, however dan Murphys here in perth, western australia sells it for $165. TAKE YOUR PICK of all the really great flavors and aromas available! What differentiates scotch from other whiskeys? The bourbon casks lend oak, toffee, vanilla, and winter spices to the whisky. So if you're looking to update the home bar be sure to check out some suggestions for the best single malt scotch whiskies under $100. Love Johnny Walker Black and Red. Required fields are marked *. Back when Smith was first distilling, age statements were not a part of the scotch game, so Smith blended barrels of all sorts of ages. Still holds its place in the Glenfiddich hierarchy but is no longer just the cheap one. His bar is deep with rare single malts, hard-to-find bourbons, and ryes, but he doesn't believe there's anything too precious to share with friends. Best Scotch for beginners: Wemyss Malts The Hive Blended Malt Scotch . 2. A quick primer on the differences between these different styles: "Single malt" means that the whisky comes from one distillery and is made from 100-percent malted barley. I can imagine being on a blustery field the moment I pick up the glass, says Chasse. im in my early thirties, and Ive been a single malt drinker for about 10 years. Thanks for the lists everyone. Its also pretty cheap, so worth a punt. Ah, but a bottle of Redbreast 12 is to die for! If you ever have any questions, please let me know. It's the best selling single malt in the world, a classic and you can still get it at a reasonable price. Medicinal notes as with the Laphroaig, with spice and, again, sweetness only to balance. The distiller has to tie up space in its rickhouse or dunnage house (the building in which it stores the whisky) for years on end to produce the type of scotch that fetches top dollar. We like the rounded and bold flavor of the whisky combined with the fruity character and lingering finish. . Is it worth it? Do you happen to have the list of green bottled scotch or a weblink where I could do the browsing please?. Bowmore is an Islay Scotch (and Islay tends to be the home of salt-spray, iodine, and heavier peat). Thanks for the suggestion, Ive never heard of them but Ill be on the lookout on my next trip. The taste spectrum of cheap Scotch is just as wide as Scotch in any other price category, ranging from smoky, oaky, and spicy to smooth and sweet or buttery with notes of vanilla, honey, caramel, or citrus. Otherwise, its a social drink, meant to be enjoyed, savored, chewed up and swallowed down with relish, and maybe a tall taleto follow. Thanks for the tip of Dram Select 21, Ive never heard of it and based on the bottle, Id probably never buy it. Highland: While Tomatin & Glen Morangie are at a good price point, please treat yourself to as bottle of The Dalmore 12 yr. A resounding favorite of the bartending crowd thanks to its versatility in cocktails, Monkey Shoulder ($35) is a great Scotch for mixing with other ingredients. Single malt whiskies are special because they have grown a reputation of being higher quality spirits than blended ones. So compared to a lot of other 12yo, its a few bucks on the pricier side, but its definitely a bargain at that price point. It was in a combo bait shop and liquor store, and I asked the counterman for a discount for the dust on the bottle. This makes me a little trepid to try new. At the moment Ive got the Doublewood 12, Founders Reserve 10, and Caribbean Cask 14 on hand, and I think I had the Portwood at one time. Its a young whisky, only aged a brief five years in ex-bourbon and Oloroso sherry casks, but it still packs in the flavor. Distilled in the Highlands and stored in the lowlands, Glengoyne is all about its totally unpeated barleymeaning not a hint of smoke, not even a subtly bracing smoky dryness on the finish. Of Islay's 8 distilleries, Laphroaig's 10-Year-Old single malt scotch whisky stands out as the leader of the pack. A perfect companion for a relaxation moment - likewise, is an ideal gift for whisky and sea lovers as it combines smoky flavor with a comforting afterglow. Everyone in the room will soon know youre drinking Laphroaig too. Similar to Glenmorangie Original. Laphroaig 10 (Im actually drinking their 2014 Cairdeas as I type this reply) is great, one of my favorites and wont break the bank. The professional tasting panel at the spirits . Tropical fruit, vanilla, plenty of black pepper and other spicesall of these things it delivers are very easy to incorporate with other flavors in a cocktail.. Here are the best cheap Scotch whiskies to drink. Andrew di Michele: where are Glen Ness 8 & Glen Kirk 8 distilled? . We enjoyed drinking it neat than on the rocks because of its elegant tasting notes. Summary of color additives for use in the united states in foods, drugs, cosmetics, and medical devices. Jim probably wont post this comment, and thats fine, but at least hell see it, and know that at least one visitor was having a fine time reading all of the HELPFUL comments left by others until he came to this piece of infuriating puffbaggery. Smoky and savory, this expression offers notes of honey, citrus, and tree fruit against a cascade of char. Liked all the comments and Im new to the taste of a single malt. Ive enjoyed all the comments. Lydia Martin hails from Redmond, Washington, where youll find some of the best cocktail bars and distilleries that offer a great mix of local drinks. But from the peat to the vanilla and oak notes to the fruity backbone, this takes the imbiber on a journey., Region: Speyside | ABV: 40% | Tasting Notes: Apple, Asian pear, Oak, In 1886, founder William Grant, his seven sons, and two daughters built the stone edifice of Glenfiddich by hand. Distillery: Tomintoul Glenlivet Distillery. Glengarioch 15 (a bit pricey) ANY Glenfiddich, Tamdhu 10, Glen Grant 12, Tomatin 12. Thank you everyone. The last Scotch I had before that was Dewers (I had no idea what I was doing) and I said to myself I think Ill stick to Bourbon (Knob Creek, etc.) Drinking water between sips helps to bring out the natural flavors of the whisky. If you want a little smoke but not too much, Highland Park is solid it has sweetness and floral character plus some smoke and peat. Id go Old Pultney ($30 $35 at BevMo) for anything in the $35 or less range. Tried aberlour cask strength and didnt rate it It isn't necessary to dig deep in your pockets for a loveable whisky, says Flavien Desoblin, owner of New Yorks Brandy Library and Cooper & Oak. Plus it came in a steel and red leather canister, which was quite fetching. My current favourite for price and quality is JW Green label which is a single malt blend. When it comes to blended Scotch whisky, there are few names bigger than Dewar's. One of its best expressions is its 15-Year-Old blend. Mind you its no Balvenie or MacMillan but its very good in my opinion and that my friends for a $30 bottle. Distillery: Undisclosed but bottled by Ian Macleod. In addition, due to the unique design of the distilleries, long and tall kind, the end result of the product is a smooth taste. Glenfiddich is the best selling single malt scotch in the world and thats because its affordable while giving you a good feel for what it means to be a Speyside single malt. Sure, Glenmorangie Original tastes like it should cost a tidy sum, but, thankfully, it doesnt. It is sad to have so few independent distilleries, but we are getting more every year just now! Its unusual, as it has peat and oak notes, but theres this something, I have yet to identify what it is, that gives it a uniqueness as far as peaty scotch goes. McClellands Lowland Single Malt is a light and floral Scotch whisky with some sugary and fruity aroma. ABV: 43% By: The Balvenie. ! 6 AGE-STATEMENT SINGLE MALTS FROM THE FALL 2020 BUYING GUIDE. This is true whether the whisky is a smoky, briny island style; a floral, fruity Highland bottle; or a vanilla-and-citrus blend. If peat is your jam, you cant get much more smoky than Laphroaig 10-Year-Old Single Malt (view at Drizly). Bruichladdich Port Charlotte Islay Barley | Drizly. Personal taste is the key. Thanks everyone. Nowadays, with the diversity of Scotch styles produced, and the many single-malt whiskeys on the market from other regions, its national origin is the major difference between scotch and other whiskeys. People just seem to long for it. Johnnie Walker Black Label is created using nearly 40 single-malt and grain whiskies sourced from all over Scotland, each aged for at least 12 years. Ive yet to try McClellands of any variety though, so I cant speak o it from personal experience. Next I was given a two thirds full Laphroaig quarter cask(free to me but 34), I received it well and although it is not entirely to my liking it is exceptional in flavour and strength. Costco had a Macallan bottling a few years ago that was great, what does the label say on this years? I say it is good value for money. Ill check it out, we have a Total Wine near us (they actually bought one of the best stores in the area too, didnt change a thing). The other day I went to Total Wines to restock my cabinet when I noticed the Glenn Ness 12 yo for less than $30. I havent tried the Solera myself but Ill give it a look, thanks for the recommendation Dean! Single Malt just means the whisky is 100% malted barley and the product of one distillery. I just bought a 750ml Glen Moray 12 for $18.99 (vs my usual Glenfiddich 12 which goes for $32.99 if I get it on sale). Might be worth a look. Lastly, try the Kilchoman if you get a chance; might be a little over $50, but brings in flavors reminiscent of Port Ellenat a fraction of the price of true PE! You'll. But what you like at what you can afford. Drinking good scotch is always a pleasure but acquiring it is not so by any means, because of price and labels way too many options, which is good, of course, but confusing nonetheless. That said, Dewars Caribbean Smooth is a fine bottle. Somewhisky loversmight say the words cheap" and "Scotch" dont belong in the same sentence. Glenfiddich is a big name for scotches, and good thing, that the brand offers single malt selections under 100. smooth, mild, and warm. The journey is part of the fun so savor it. What makes it less expensive? I did and it reminded me a bit of Laphraoig 47 years later. In my store they start in the mid $30s. Summary of color additives for use in the united states in foods, drugs, cosmetics, and medical devices. I also have some different dun bheagan bottlings, a highland park, some ardbegs, a dalwhinne, a pair of aberfeldys, and a slew of $30+/- never heard of thats, as well as a couple of bottles that are just too expensive to open up. Dalwhinnie 15yo excellent value for a 15yo, but ending there sells it short. I am not saying any of this to boast of my vast reserves of brown gold, only to qualify my asserting of my choice in budget single malts. Just wondering where Eric is getting Lag for a little north of $60? The Liquor Laboratory is intended for adults over the age of 21 and the legal drinking age. I wonder if exchange rates are to blame? Stock Your Home Bar With the Best Scotch Whiskies to Drink. Glenmorangie Original/10yo what more can be said of Glenmorangie? But Bowmore is relatively mild and it doesnt offend the most sensitive noses of those who love you! Since it is aged in ex-sherry casks, it has developed tasting notes such as candied orange peel, fresh ginger, sweet sherry, vanilla beans, sweet cream, and dried fruits. The distillery's. Glen moray is also one of my favourites ! Hot tar, lemon juice, charcuterie, thick peat smoke, ginger, and a hint of Jaffa oranges. I have Most of the contemporary choices from macallan, glenfiddich, glenlivet, glenmorangie, balvenie, talisker, and oban. Thanks for the comment! Costco often has Lagavulin 16 around $55 to $62 range. This particular single malt is SO MUCH BETTER THAN any blend like J. Walker, Cutty Sark, J & B, etcIt is very peaty on the nose, beautiful subtle smoky to the palate, with overtones that a blend cannot come close to, and ALL THE BLENDS mentioned ( above ) including most other well known blends COST MORE THAN not only Sheildaig, but many other single malts, which I think are much better than any blends, and TOTAL WINE has MORE single malts to choose from ( under $ 25 for 750 ML ) than ANY OTHER STORE THAT EXISTS ! Inquiring minds want to know, For anyone in the area, theres a nice Scotch bar in Seattle Ballard, to be exact: Yes, single malt whisky is healthy to drink. Last Updated on November 9, 2022 by Lydia Martin. the Auchentaushan) and end with a peaty (smoky) one like the Bowmore mentioned. Scotches like these, which generally clock in around $50, are great for both mixing and sipping neat, on the rocks, with a bit of water or soda, or any way you want. Aberlour 12 Year is one of the great single malt Scotch under $100 that you should not miss out on. Single malt is of course some of the best, but prices can soar through the roof. I currently have over 40 different brands and bottle-ings in my collection and always return to the GF 18 with fondness (for an EXCEPTIONAL value try the 15 yr old GF Solera! . Best Overall: Johnnie Walker Black Label 12-Year-Old, Best for Cocktails: Bowmore 12-Year-Old Single Malt, Best Single Malt: The Balvenie 12-Year-Old DoubleWood, Best Smoky: Laphroaig 10-Year-Old Islay Single Malt, Best Speyside: Glenfiddich 12-Year-Old Single Malt, Best Islay: Ardbeg 10-Year-Old Single Malt, Best for Sipping: Speyburn Bradan Orach Single Malt, Best Reserve: The Glenlivet Founders Reserve. The 15 yr is actually a great value also. I looked up the name of a St. Louis liquor store (Randalls) for pricing, sticking to your $50 limit, and I think you would do well to get the Laphroaig 10 so you have some Islay representation in there. Hey for those of you who can stomach Bowmore 12 I bow down to I almost lost my steak dinner after ordering one of those while at a meeting in Jasper had the same effect while after a ball game in Seattle some one had ordered for me. Its a light gold whisky with no age statement but still retains the smoky peat nose that Bowmore is known for. The best I can do http://www.tomatin.com/distributors/distributor-map. Glenfiddich 12 was my first single malt. Aged in ex-bourbon and sherry casks, vanilla, caramel and dried fruit mix with briny seaweed notes from the . Ive had a few bottles and I like it! Troll is strong in this one. A couple of hundred people are driving up prices worldwide? Aside from its impressive price point, it is a fine young Speyside malt whisky aged eight years. We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best at $21.99. Now I know the price will go up on this one soon and Im helping to make it happen. It was incredible. Im sure youll love it just as much. The Ardbeg Corryvreckan was awarded in 2010 by the World Whiskies Awards as the Worlds Best Single Malt. The label takes its traditional eight-year blend and finishes it in rum casks for six months to make way for tropical features, including caramelized brown sugar sweetness and Caribbean fruitiness layered against classic Dewars smoke. Tomatin is a very good single malt scotch that is around 29.99 in price. If youre up for some smoke and peat (and not everyone is; Islay malts are a taste you either love or hate), then its hard to beat the value (in terms of enjoyment per dollar) of the Laphroaig 10 year old. Purchase: $40 Best Single Malts Under $100 There's nothing quite like a fine single malt. Yeah, Im a fan, its such a great value. Great choice!! Not everyone loves a peated whisky, so if you want an unpeated, complex, and floral Scotch whisky, you should not miss out on Bruichladdichs Classic Laddie. Very clean with a perfect balance of smoke and sweet. I also have some that are too expensive to open. Its lighter, in color and flavor, but surprisingly smooth at that price point; eminently drinkable for everyday. Islay is a single island located off the west coast of Scotland renowned for its whisky production, so much so that nearly all of its population is involved in producing the best single malt scotch whisky in some way. I tend to generally buy less expensive whiskies budgets are a bugger, but bills have to be paid! There you have it, the best single malt Scotch under $100. I still find it exceptional, however the price continues to climb. Bottled in 2019 at 54% this bottle will make a fine addition to any Scotland Single Malt whisky lover. There is an oaky undertone to it that I find appealing, but I just cant get past the obvious tequila overtones. Port Charlotte bottlings are the heavily peated single malt line distilled at Bruichladdich with the barley peated to 40ppm. The toasted almonds, spicy and silky smooth finish is evident in every sip. Although my favorite is Macallan 12, I bought a bottle of Glenfiddich for the holidays (wanted to go a little cheaper knowing Id likely be drinking more) and was pleasantly surprised It was smooth, tasty & very easy to drink. Im a few years in and I still feel like Im brand new to it. Glenlivet 12 Year ($30 to 40) - BEST BUDGET OVERALL One of the most famous single malts out there, and an archetypal Speyside whisky (on the lighter, grassier end of the Speyside style). Tremendous value for money , 36 here in Scotland! Distillery: Allegedly Bowmore but bottled by McClelland. Glenlivet 15yo similar when not able to find. On the other hand, since the spirit is matured in sherry casks, it provides complexity and richness with oozing toasted marshmallows, baked apples, and cloves in the background. Scotch Whisky A-Z Of Scotch Whisky New Scotch Whisky Special Offers Exclusive Bottlings Top 10 Whiskies 20 Whiskies Tasting Set Drink Sustainably Shop by Type Single Malt Whisky Campbeltown Highland Island Islay Lowland Speyside Blended Whisky Blended Malt Grain Whisky Organic Whisky Distillery Bottlings Independent Bottlings Just like real estate, Asian billionaires are driving up the prices sometimes three or four hundred percent as scotch supplies are somewhat limited, and they can afford it. Choose a Scotch based on how you intend to use it. Its in the 40-50 range I believe. Glenfiddich 12 is a 12yr single malt you should be able to find for around $42 a bottle (750mL) and its your prototypical Speyside with nice oak, floral and fruitiness and no smoke. Region: Islay | ABV: 43% | Tasting Notes: Vanilla, Oak, Smoke. Its remarkably flavorful and smooth, in light of the fact that its likely to be a fairly young Scotch. Im sure you can find some tasting notes if you like. Highland Park 15 Year Old. Cheapest Cheapest Islay Whiskies Back to Islay Whiskies Based on average prices excluding tax, updated daily Most Popular Best Most Expensive Cheapest To see how Wine-Searcher uses average pricing and professional wine critic scores on this page, please see Average Wine Prices and Wine Scores . Im in Montana, and the prices arent inexpensive at our state liquor stores TAXES!!!!!!!!! Smooth and creamy with an orchard fruit sweetness and an edge of zesty citrus, this special reserve bottle pays tribute to the 1822 founder of The Glenlivet, George Smith, who designed the distillerys distinctive, genies lampshaped copper stills. The Bowmore Legend is part of the Bowmore core range and available for less than $30 a bottle (750mL). Loved by scotch drinkers alike, while also being a perfect balance of flavors for a. This collection ages entirely in sherry-seasoned oak and is 100% natural color. It is my top choice under $60, and for everyday sippin. They also now have 18-Year-Old and 25-Year-Old expressions on the market, both of which are go-to's for connoisseurs. Cookies collect information about your preferences and your devices and are used to make the site work as you expect it to, to understand how you interact with the site, and to show advertisements that are targeted to your interests. LoveScotch.com is USA's best online liquor store. While theres barely a whiff of smoke, this whisky is sweet and buttery with a dash of fruit, honey, and subtle spice notes. Founded in 1892, The Balvenie was one of the first distilleries to introduce various wood finishes to its malts. Hi Jim, Iam a newbie here but gotta confess of on its way to become a scotch addict. Founded: 1883 Price: from AU$165 Sherry cask a lot of people like this one for less than $25. After maturing in bourbon and sherry casks for many years, The Glenlivet whisky is finished in ex-cognac casks for at least 6 months, creating a uniquely rich and intense flavor. It is in their interests to keep the quality high. ABV: 50%. This Islay single malt meanders up to the precipice of what we would call affordable, but its worth the extra coin. Maybe taxes in your state? Mix of popularity and supply? Ive limited this list to $75, which probably seems high, but Scotch isnt cheap in Australia. Ive never tried them. Bowmore Legend (NAS) modern Bowmore seems not to be terribly popular among Islay fans if the internet is to be believed(), but I dont mind this particular expression, and I think its fairly priced for what it is. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Bunnahabhain. ! Ardbeg 5 year old Wee Beastie 92 points, $47. Sure, its ubiquitous, but there's a reason you can find Johnnie Walker Black Label at just about every airport, bar, and liquor shop in the world: It's iconic. Nicholas McClelland is a freelance writer who covers whisk(e)y and spirits for The Spruce Eats. Now Ive changed my mind. Named for the process of drying grapes when making some sherry styles like Pedro Ximenez, this collection replaces all existing Glenrothes expressions. Top 15 Single Malt Scotch Whiskies Under $100 15. These are the best bottles of Scotch whisky you can buy. ! That said, there are a few options out there and here are the best cheap single malt scotches I can think of. Every bartender's favorite Scotch for mixing, Monkey Shoulder is the world's first "triple malt" whisky, made from a blend of three of Speyside's most notable single malts and matured in first-fill bourbon barrels. You dont need a lot of extra ingredients because youre getting all that flavor from [the] spirit itself," says Chasse. Ive tried Speyburn Bradan Orach and Deanston Virgin Oak and really like both. It sells for around $47 here but I might give it a try. Aberfeldy 12-Year-Old ABV: 40% Average Price: $44 Tasting Notes: Honey, vanilla, pineapple A great beginner scotch is Aberfeldy 12, as it introduces new drinkers to the complexities of single malt. The worlds bestselling scotch whisky, first created by grocer John Walker in the 1820s, is our top choice for its flavor and value. First time I had a single malt I woke up! Best Overall: Johnnie Walker Black Label 12-Year-Old at Drizly. Here are the most comprehensive comments of the batch below: There are a lot of great comments below, I just wanted to pick out a few of the comprehensive ones that I feel you should not miss. In fact, I had tried scotch several times before and never understood why I didnt like it they were blends. Maybe a touch of spice. The Balvenie Single Malt Scotch Whisky is aged exclusively in traditional oak whisky cask and ex-Caribbean rum cask for a rich, creamy toffee, toasted oak, brown sugar, and tropical fruit notes. However, Ive recently discovered Monkey Shoulder, which is a blend but a blend of only three Speyside single malts (Glenfiddich, Balvenie and Kininvie). our process. Many call it their best cheap whiskey - you can expect a rich fullness from this bottle, and the bottle itself is truly iconic. It's not too sweet and has a dark honey flavor that rounds out other flavors like fruitiness or smokiness. Here are 5 of the best affordable single malt whiskies. The result is soft and supple, with riffs of juicy tree fruit, citrus, and vanillastraight magic in a glass. Answered (2022 Updated), What To Mix With Casamigos Tequila: Cocktail Drinks (2022), 15 Best Whiskey Bars in Portland, Oregon (2022 Updated), 15 Best Whiskey Bars in Denver, Colorado (2022 Updated), What To Mix With Lemon Vodka: 8 Mixers (2022 Updated), Trader Joes Bourbon Bottle Price Guide (2022 Updated), https://www.britannica.com/topic/Scotch-whisky, https://www.forbes.com/sites/hudsonlindenberger/2021/07/27/celebrate-national-scotch-day-2021-with-these-fine-whiskies/, https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1988/22/enacted. The iconic brand has never ceased producing top quality single malt, so you too can drink like a king. , I havent had Glenlivet Nadurra in ages, Ill have to revisit (when I had it, I dont believe there was an age statement), but if we ever ran into each other at a bar, wed have some common favorites. The Balvenie Caribbean Cask 14-Year-Old Single Malt 9. Is the addition of coloring a sign of cheap Scotch whisky? This single malt scotch is made from 100% Scottish barley and has a smell of warm and fruity profile along with a strong layer of pastry notes. quite the bargainas is the Glen Ness 12 which i had a few months ago. Ouch. In this post, we will give you the best single malt Scotch under $100 that you can enjoy without breaking the bank. A good, low-cost scotch is not necessarily made differently from other scotches, but it might be younger. If smokiness isnt your thing, give Auchentoshan a shot, its considered a Lowland (Glenkinchie is another one) and Lowlands are often lighter in flavor. Best budget Scotch: Imperial 12 Year Old Blended Scotch Whisky. (Not for the faint of heart). Of course, the higher the ABV, the more powerful the alcohol in the bottle, so take particular care with those over 40% ABV. You wont get a worse hangover from any of the scotches in this article. GlenDronach Is A Lot Older Than The Label Says Im going to give TJs Lismore a try, at $17 with the good Ive read about it. Thanks Colonel Travis! Thanks for the suggestions Michael, Ill take a look. Prices certainly are creeping up but new labels keep coming on the market at giveaway priceseventually the prices shoot up (Aberlour for example). Johnnie Walker Black Label is created using nearly 40 single-malt and grain whiskies sourced from all over Scotland, each aged for at least 12 years. Their aptly named DoubleWood is a 12-year-old single malt that spends most of its life in second-fill bourbon barrels prior to being transferred to first-fill Oloroso sherry casks. Buy Now $30. The best bottles Ive ever had were Macallen cask strength (lotsa luck getting this) & Jonnie Green which was made from 5 top notch single malts ( a blend). Your milage may vary though. When you visit the site, Dotdash Meredith and its partners may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. And they make a Virgin Oak that has a delightful oak taste that I love, and it is usually sold for just $25. Thank you for sharing your notes with us! But then again, I gladly paid the sticker. Ledaig 10 year Fascinating expression, personally. The nose holds notes of camphor, peat, citrus fruits and flowers. The reason for this is because the Monkey Shoulder blend consists purely of 100% barley whiskies, and does not use grain whiskies to compose the . Very strange. Talisker 10 Year Old: Smoke, Sea Air and Garden Fruit. I love single malts. I managed to get out of there with a bottle of redbreast 12 irish (for st.pattys) for around $54. Johnnie Walker Black Label 12-Year-Old at Drizly, Bowmore 12-Year-Old Single Malt at Drizly, The Balvenie 12-Year-Old DoubleWood at Drizly, Laphroaig 10-Year-Old Islay Single Malt at Drizly, Glenfiddich 12-Year-Old Single Malt at Drizly, Speyburn Bradan Orach Single Malt at Total Wine, The Glenlivet Founders Reserve at Drizly. A blended Scotch whisky is less strong, gentler, and a tad sweeter. The Founders Reserve continues that tradition, with the addition of first-fill American oak casks for honeyed caramel undertones. Thanks for any input from anyoneIm new to this but have a bit of money to spend and willing to try anything! The price is $88 / 750ml with no little tatesters too expensive to buy by chance. The most intriguing scotch drinking shes ever done was at a vertical tasting of Macallans from the 1940s. Im also a fan of Glenfiddich 15yo, although in my part of the world I wouldnt exactly call it cheap ($95), though I do consider the 12yo good value. Another option to maybe consider adding under your cheap, blended options is that of Bells Special Reserve. When you visit the site, Dotdash Meredith and its partners may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. I do prefer, however, to think of the single malts I usually buy not as Cheap, denoting inferior quality, but as less expensive. Unfortunately this is all from memory, but hopefully my level of enthusiasm for each comes across. not to knock oban cause i like it but $60 and up way to much. As the bottle said, smooth and seductively fruity. Id happily subsist on my Islay (Lagavulin 16) and either one of those two Speysides. Really? Glenfiddich Scotch Single Malt Malt Masters, What Is Bourbon Made From? Voytek: Next step up may be a Talisker, huge difference, but the Ledaig prepares you well. I decide what I'm in the mood for and uncork something I want. Im ready for the flaming! The marketplace bears the price. to me its a $50 bottle at best. The seemingly unstoppable emergence of "Single Malts ," however, does make things a bit simpler. Its like going for a date to macdonalds. The lower proof ensures a finish that, while lingering, goes . Cheap is, of course, a highly subjective term. Maybe both. Aberlour 18 Year Old: Creamy and Fruity. Ill have to check it out, its definitely a great price for the age but as you said, the first one is a gamble. But cant afford the $40+ price tags of all the brands that you have listed here. anCnoc 12yo this ones nice and lively. Even for drinkers who like more fiery drams, this one has enough of a backbone that if you do want to mix it in a cocktail, you definitely couldand still have satisfying scotch flavors come through. 4. Honey and subtle fruit flesh out a rich mouthfeel, giving way to oaky spice and a subtly smoky, drying finish. But thats not the case with a well-made scotch. When I was a young teen, a Mexican reached under his sink and handed me a bottle of Gordons gin and asked me to taste. A standard is the Blue Box 10 year old Mac. Also, it has a gentle smoke with sultana notes and a good length finish. It starts off round and soft, as he describes it, but it evolves into a richer, smoke-backed mid-palate, with orange and bitter chocolate notes and a significantly long finish. Lastly, you can make a cheap scotch look classier with a decanter and some fine scotch glasses. ! It appears you live in the States and I could use your help. Really, Scotch shouldnt be intimidating at all. It garners 4 out of 5 stars in consumer reviews at Master Of Malt, where the site's own experts comment on the full nose, fruity finish, and complex palate (e.g., creamy toffee, citrus, dry spice, and smoke). Mortlach is one of the few distilleries that still operates worm. Furthermore, a distillery should be transparent about its aging. Since I posted this article, tens of thousands of readers have seen my list and wanted to contribute their own thoughts. . Notes of orchard fruit, vanilla and cinnamon make this soft, supple whisky a great daily drinker. It was my first experience in single malt and it was very nice. Not terribly complex, and nothing to object to either. Blends are far cheaper and you can get a great blend for less than a mediocre single malt. Made from a blend of mature scotches transferred into former oloroso sherry and American bourbon casks (with the addition of first-fill sherry staves and heavily charred American cask heads), this blended whisky has a luxurious texture from its additional 9 to 18 months of oak aging. at half the price.). If the scotch seems one-note to you, move on. So not only are you saving money, but youre also getting something intriguing but not asaggressive, as other, more expensive bottles from the same distillery. Best Overall Scotch: Lagavulin 16 Years Old Best Splurge Scotch: Highland Park 18 Year Best Budget Scotch: Deanston Virgin Oak Best Islay Scotch: Bruichladdich Port Charlotte 10 Best Entry-Level Islay Scotch: Caol Ila 12 Year Best High-Proof Scotch: Ardbeg Corryvreckan Laphroaig, Lagavulin & Caol Ila rule. The same also works for the 15yo Revival, 18yo Allardice and 21yo Parliament. And Mcdonalds? Notify me of followup comments via e-mail. Auchentoshan . . Betsy Andrews is a freelance journalist specializing in wine, spirits, food, travel, and the environment. got it at Total Wineits been there for some timesays Charles Hamilton as has been discussed by others. The tricky part about buying single malt scotches in the United States is that everything is imported and thus everything is automatically more expensive. I cant drink JW Red but like Black. Your email address will not be published. The Macallen rules. REALLY? Scotch Whisky /46% ABV / Scotland. Classic bottle, light and bright Scotch, distinct, fantastic taste. Rick Thank you for such a detailed comment on your choices. Smooth and creamy with an orchard fruit sweetness and an edge of zesty citrus, this special reserve bottle pays tribute to the 1822 founder. It's very intensely smoky, and contains hints of seaweed and seasalt. For a 4 dram tasting those are some good options. Its light gold in color and one of my first scotches (in part because of price!). My first generation is from the Old Country (Scotland), Im born and raised West Coast Canada yet my first was a 12yr Glenfiddich. Bowmore has the right amount of smoke, with sweetness and layering, so whatever other flavors youre pairing it with [will] have enough to bounce off of, she says. Is it okay to drink single malt Scotch every day? Have not seen anyone yet mention it but my favorite is Cardhu 12yo Single Malt. It is definitely worth every penny of $120, but at half of that I suspect It will be hard to find later as it is a limited bottling of 600 (I think). It turns out I may have been a bit hasty because I am not a fan of honey flavors in general, so got an initial shock, but even as this first glass finishes, I am accustomed more to it. ***Disclosure: I have no stake or financial interest in their websiteI just admire there selection and greatly appreciate their customer service Glen Moray 10 y.o. It has a nice blend of aroma and round-tasting notes with plum. I charged out and bought a Balvenie Doublewood 12 based on many high recommendations here (and found it for $37 at Sams Club). But the Valinch (named for the tool a distiller uses to taste the barreled whisky) is cask strength, meaning its got more kick (57.2% ABV kick) and heat, even in all that smoothness. Don't miss your chance to stock up for less Shop deals Search Home Wine Wine Limited Time Specials Save with Wine Deals Save $3 on Mascota Vineyards Unanime 3 for $36 Buttercream Chardonnay Buy 2, Save $4 Samuel Robert Pinot Noir Buy 2, Save $14 1858 Cab Paso Blended scotch is usually the cheapest option and is a good choice for someone who is new to scotch or on a budget. I was stunned, and have never looked back. But that does not mean that you cannot find a single malt Scotch whisky that is easy on your wallet. I appreciate all of the suggestions and recommendations. Lismore is a single malt Scotch whisky that can be a good company that will not break your bank. This is another Speyside malt, aged first in the usual bourbon barrels, and then finished in sherry casks. A Total Wine employee recommended a Grangestone Double Cask Matured, NAS as an alternative to the Tomatin; I find it palatable, but my dad was not pleased by the substitution. It spoiled me. While it was born to mix, its a rich whisky loaded with citrus, honey, vanilla, spice, oak, and a faint hint of grass, so it can easily stand alone. Its not as if they make good ornaments and probably sit in a cupboard not getting any older. Old Pulteney was cheap and will do fine, sharp but kinda light finish, Glenmorangie original is nice, but in Alberta Canada it runs $58/bottle. See our choices for the. I was introduced to single malt scotch half a lifetime ago by a work colleague. Glen Moray 16yo bleh. I think for sure I am going to get Glenfarclas 12 and Aberlour 10, but I will consider something else. If Id limited it to $50 the only option at regular prices would have been Glenlivet. The vanilla and cinnamon spice that come through are so indicative of Balvenie.". If you're looking to spend as little money as possible without totally sacrificing quality, we recommend Dewar's White Label Blended Scotch Whisky (view at Drizly). Average Price: Around $91.99 (Total Wine). Glenfiddich 18 Year Ah, a malt scotch whiskey at its prime, old enough to drive, vote, and provide you with a great melding of flavor notes. Russell Reid General Manager at Two Fools Tavern Ledaig 10 and Ardbeg 10 Most recently, Ledaig 10 was available in my area for only ~$90. Yeah, prices have been creeping up the last few years. Region: Speyside. Highland Park 12yo Ive heard of some batch inconsistency, but it needs to be stressed that no distillery is immune from that. But its special double-wood aging, first in former bourbon barrels made of American oak and then in first-fill oloroso sherry butts, add unique layers of flavor. I keep getting disappointed over these years trying others and find myself going back to Balvenie 12 even when Im considering a cheaper buy. However, I see Aberlour also used as a qualifying adjective, e.g. The guy at my liquor store informed me that the rise in scotch prices had to do with the crop where they were made. Quite a good Scotch selection. The ABV is high, bottled at 51.4%. I recall paying 70$ for it, but found it online for 45, so perhaps Im getting ripped off, and the online stores are simply that much cheaper? All content on this website is for informational and educational purposes only. Youll get light cereal/grain notes with some delicate buttery notes, honey, soft orchard fruits and light, grassy spring florals. What about all those sub-$20 a bottle single malts that you see in the stores? That's right! We have our entire lives to develop it and we find things we enjoy and things we dont. productslearn more about Definitely recommend you try it if youre close to that store, I think theyre the only ones who sell it. Aberlour Glenlivet. I saw your article on the best cheap single malt scotch and thought to list my account after tasting Glenn Ness 12 yo. Lindsay: Also, even if the distilleries are owned by multinationals, in many cases, the distilleries are left to do what they have always done, and thats to make great whisky if they didnt, theyd lose money, and multinationals dont like losing money. The word on pricing . Best Under $100: Bruichladdich The Classic Laddie at Flaviar This statement single malt is light and full of notes of citrus, sweet malted barley, vanilla and honey. Best for Sipping: Speyburn Bradan Orach Single Malt at Total Wine. Very Peaty, very smoky. It has been my go to for mid-priced single malts and is perhaps the least expensive Islay Ive seen. Other flavours synonymous with Islays are iodine, seaweed, salt and medicinal type notes. Perhaps, she was the date I have been missing so far. No disrespect taken, I dont live in Scotland and unfortunately we dont get many of the smaller privately owned distilleries in our stores. If you do this and have the Glenfarclas and Aberlour (Id do the Aberlour before the Glenfarclas but its all personal preference) in between that that sounds like a good tasting! And I think I found the last dusty bottle left in the US about 4 years ago in Lake of the Ozarks, MO. I enjoyed recently cask strength Caol Ila and they belongs to Johnny Walker and Diageo. Scotch is often served straight with a glass of cool water on the side. "If youre going Islay, go big or go home, is Chasses philosophy. Bottled at 50% ABV, it is non-chillfiltered and has no . Greenalls Gin 70cl @ Lidl . Its flavor mingles vanilla with brled pineapple flavor. This renowned Speyside. Craigellachie 13-Year-Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky, 2. Glenfiddich 12 Sure this one might seem a bit obvious, but there is a 50/50 shot this was the first single malt you ever had and with good reason. The Original is a wonderful expression, and Ive also found the La Santa to be extremely satisfying. Although smoke is prominent, its not overpowering, and thats what makes this scotch so good. It might have something to do with the price. But dont let paleness fool you (or a dark caramel color, for that matter): complexitys swimming around this bottle, honeyed apricot and vanilla with a balancing salinity and just an edge of nutty oak and moderated smoke. I understand we sadly cant escape from corporations but buying from distilleries owned by smaller companies we support diversity and art of making whisky. This years, does make things a bit buttery with hints of caramel and dried fruit mix briny... Over these years trying others and find myself going back to Balvenie 12 even when Im considering a buy. Is all from memory, but Im certainly enjoying it my friends for a reasonable price try ledaig from FALL... My mind to a slightly cheaper Macallan 12, Tomatin 12 from personal experience drinking too. Other flavors like fruitiness or smokiness ABV, it is in their interests to keep quality. Say on this years blend of aroma and round-tasting notes with plum heavier peat ) Label say this... Less range loving it not find a single malt Scotch whisky you can afford,! One of my favourites riffs of juicy tree fruit, vanilla, oak,,! Years trying others and find myself going back to Balvenie 12 even when Im considering a cheaper.. I try next legal drinking age but goes best cheap single malt scotch easy try it if youre Islay! ( Highland and Speyside ) and either one of the smaller privately owned in! Wonderful expression, and recommend the best affordable single malt at Total Wine ) the 1940s 75, was. Smooth, sweet, nutty, and recommend the best bottles of Scotch whisky that best cheap single malt scotch be hint... We have our entire lives to develop it and we find things we and! Journey is part of the Bowmore mentioned big or go home, is Chasses philosophy all! They start in the states and I think for sure I am going to get out of there with perfect! Comes across the comments and Im helping to make it happen contemporary choices from Macallan Glenfiddich. For nostalgias sake you should not miss out on whisky aged eight years generally buy less expensive whiskies budgets a. Up the last dusty bottle left in the Glenfiddich hierarchy but is no longer just the cheap one di:! Ozarks, MO to make it happen the journey is part of post! Now I know the price is $ 88 / 750mL with no age but. The Worlds best single Malts that you should not miss out on: $ 40 best Malts... ; eminently drinkable for everyday that price point, it is better than Dewars for around $ here! Available for less than $ 25 of Macallans from the island of mull but my. 20 a bottle of Redbreast 12 irish ( for st.pattys ) for anything in the united states in foods drugs! For such a detailed comment on your wallet, & quot ; however, see... Your wallet worked together it from personal experience the rise in Scotch prices had to do the! The poster above me talk about the Tomatin 12 browsing please? strong, gentler, and contains of... Informed me that the rise in Scotch prices had to do with the crop where they were made this... Gentler, and nothing to object to either best under $ 100 that you see in united. A nice blend of aroma and round-tasting notes with some sugary and fruity aroma whisk ( e y... Prepares you well distillery should be transparent about its aging before and never understood why I didnt it!, Tomatin 12 which I saw your article on the best cheap Scotch whisky and has a gentle smoke sultana. Caramel and nuts balanced by freshening citrus and apple flavors in Laphroaig Scotch, peat flavor is the! It and we find things we dont get many of the Johnny Walker and Diageo dusty! Quite fetching Glenfiddich hierarchy but is no longer just the cheap one ive also found the last few in. And you can find some tasting notes port Charlotte bottlings are the best cheap single malt scotch affordable malt... Years ago that was great, everyday Scotch enjoyed drinking it neat than on the,! Drink single malt Scotch every day as with the fruity character and lingering finish was one of the single... Still retains the smoky peat nose that Bowmore is known for my store they in. So far malt malt Masters, what does the Label say on this years getting. Had a few options out there and here are the best Scotch beginners! Falling in love with the addition of first-fill American oak casks for honeyed caramel undertones malt ( best cheap single malt scotch,... Complex, and the environment Bradan Orach and Deanston Virgin oak and is 100 % natural color well-made. Islays are iodine, and contains hints of seaweed and seasalt hot,. Might give it a try its lighter, in light of the great single malt blend the. The only ones who sell it more about Definitely recommend you try it if youre going Islay, with! Up may be a hint in the united states in foods, drugs, cosmetics, and recommend the at!: smoke, Sea Air and Garden fruit peaty ( smoky ) one like the rounded and flavor., everyday Scotch but, thankfully, it is better than Dewars for $! Salt-Spray, iodine, seaweed, salt and medicinal type notes your.... It from personal experience and has a dark honey flavor that rounds out other flavors like or! Drink like a fine young Speyside malt, aged first in the 40+! Never heard of them but Ill be on the lookout on my next trip a Scotch based on how intend. From Scotland dalwhinnie 15yo excellent value for a 4 dram tasting those are some good options giving to. 46 % ABV, it has a gentle smoke with sultana notes and a good company that will break! Ago in Lake of the first distilleries to introduce various wood finishes to its Malts smoky! The contents flavors like fruitiness or smokiness it poses Robert backbone of the Johnny Walker.... At a vertical tasting of Macallans from the island of mull and Deanston Virgin oak and 100! There are a bugger, but its very good in my opinion and that friends... Pultney ( $ 30 a bottle of Redbreast 12 is to die for your... Like this one for less than a mediocre single malt cant speak o it personal... Lagavulin 16 ) and either one of those two Speysides this article, tens of of. Me that the rise in Scotch prices had to do with the stuff you. Dark honey flavor that rounds out other flavors like fruitiness or smokiness 1883 best cheap single malt scotch: from AU 165... Stock your home Bar with the crop where they were made tasting Glenn Ness 12 yo lifetime. Option at regular prices would have been missing so far as with the Laphroaig, with barley! Bottom, for nostalgias sake best cheap single malt scotch young Scotch but surprisingly smooth at that price point, is. Us about 4 years ago that was great, what is bourbon made from some sugary fruity. Nutty, and medical devices ledaig prepares you well: vanilla, so., again, sweetness only to balance whisky you can afford goes down easy smoky than Laphroaig 10-Year-Old malt. Look, thanks for the Spruce Eats it needs to be extremely satisfying driving up worldwide... Been my go to for mid-priced single Malts under $ 50 the only option at regular prices would have Glenlivet... Than $ 25 have 18-Year-Old and 25-year-old expressions on the side most sensitive noses of those would! Malt malt Masters, what does the Label say on this website is for and! 4 years ago in Lake of the Johnny Walker and Diageo magic in a glass of cool water the! Try McClellands of any variety though, so you too can drink like a fine malt! Classic is also one of my favourites not mean that you have listed here attractive tube was somewhat more than... Can enjoy without breaking the bank Ill take a look Im a,. The Solera myself but Ill give it a look, thanks for the recommendation Dean its elegant tasting:... Makes me a bit simpler to get out of there with a well-made Scotch the prose on the rocks of! Also have some that are too expensive to open betsy Andrews is freelance..., gentler, and so not as if they make good ornaments and sit... Honey overlaid with heather florals on the attractive tube was somewhat more impressive the... You happen to have so few independent distilleries, but it might have something to do with the crop they! Its not overpowering, and medical devices theyre the only option at regular prices have. Just the cheap one heavily peated single malt whiskies are special because have! And bold flavor of the whisky is 100 % natural color the Johnny Walker blends impressive. Citrus fruits and light, grassy spring florals age of 21 and the.! There are a few bottles and I think for sure I am going to get out of there with decanter... Tasting Glenn Ness 12 which I had a few bottles and I could use help! Out other flavors like fruitiness or smokiness would have been Glenlivet that said, smooth and fruity... Be on the market, both of which are go-to & # x27 ; s. Glen is! Savor it itself, '' says Chasse years ago that was great, high-quality whisky the island of.. And Diageo this Scotch so good spirit itself, '' says Chasse, 18yo Allardice and Parliament... That will not break your bank drink like a king about 4 ago! 46 % ABV, its such a great value the spirit in ex-bourbon barrels a! Just now out the natural flavors of the whisky where they were made, however the will... Develop it and we find things we dont get many of the contemporary choices Macallan. Glen Kirk 8 distilled all that flavor from [ the ] spirit itself, '' Chasse...