Top 5 Whiskeys To Try Right Now

Traditionally, whiskey has been synonymous with men in suits, pouring a tumbler of whiskey over the rocks after a tough board meeting. And whilst that may still be true, whiskey drinking has evolved with the rise of cocktails and mixers making it a popular choice once again. So whether you’re a long time whiskey lover or fancy trying something new, this guide is for you.

Firstly, there are many different types of whiskeys available, the main ones being scotch, Irish, bourbon and rye. But what are the differences between these?

Irish Whiskey

Typically, Irish whiskey is triple distilled in a copper pot and are divided by different classifications, single malt, grain, single grain and blended. Irish whiskey tends to have a smooth, light and fruity taste and is a great one for sipping.

Scotch

In order to be called a scotch, this whiskey must be made from malted barley, be made in Scotland and be aged for more than 3 years. Scotch is an acquired taste, being quite a woody and peaty and is usually drank by experienced whiskey lovers.

Bourbon

This whiskey must be made in America from at least 51% corn and must be aged in oak barrels for at least 2 years. Bourbon must not contain any additives and tends to have a sweet taste with a hint of smoke. Tennessee whiskey is also American and is very similar to bourbon with the only noticeable difference being the filtering method.

Rye

Finally, Rye must be made from at least 51% rye grain and charred in new-oak barrels for at least two years and tends to have a crisp, spicy and sharp taste.

Top 5 Whiskey’s To Try

1. Balvenie DoubleWood 12 Year Old Scotch

Balvenie is a great scotch, especially for those who are new to Whiskey. It has a very smooth and sweet taste with a nice spicy hint and finishes with a touch of orange. We recommend serving neat at room temperature, why not try with a few drops of mineral water.

2. Monkey Shoulder

A blended Scotch Whiskey loved for its orangey vanilla taste with added spicy and floral notes, this whiskey is versatile and tastes great neat, on the rocks or in a cocktail. We recommend trying it in the Ginger Monkey cocktail, with Ginger Ale and an orange wedge to finish.

3. Blanton’s Original Single Barrel Bourbon

The first official single barrel bourbon from one of America’s most popular producers. This Bourbon is highly reviewed and much loved, with a creamy vanilla, orange and nutmeg smell and a soft but rich taste of sweet caramel and corn. Now much harder to find, if you’re lucky enough to get your hands on a bottle then we recommend serving it on the rocks.

4. Bulleit Rye

This highly regarded, flavoursome rye is a Double Gold medal award-winning Whiskey. The Bulleit Rye is loved for its sweet and spicy taste pallet and hints of cumin, honey and caramel with a spicy finish – making it the perfect Whiskey for cocktails. We recommend trying it in a classic Manhattan, stirred and strained with sweet Vermouth, aromatic Bitters and finished with a cherry on top.

5. Jameson Irish Whiskey

Last, and most certainly not least we have the exceptionally smooth blended Irish Whiskey, Jameson. Triple distilled and aged in oak casks for a minimum of 4 years allowing for the perfect balance of spicy, nutty and vanilla notes. This one of a kind Irish whiskey is a best-seller around the world, best served chilled, over ice or in a cocktail. We recommend trying a classic irish hot toddy. With ginger syrup, lemon juice and boiling water makes for a perfect winter warmer.