wokeupnew
Well-Known Member
Laphroaig is second only to Ardbeg as the smokiest scotch. Lagavulin is a bit more approachable. Talisker and Caol Ila even more so if you still want some smoke.
Otherwise, highlands/speysides are probably your friend.
If you like just a touch of smoke, and you want the price kept down, I'd suggest Black Bottle. It's a blend of single malts and is a really great bargain scotch. Its something friends of mine who want to branch out a little from Glenlivet territory seem to enjoy. Last I recall it was in the $25 dollar a 750ml range
I ended up getting a Glen Moray 12. Which is a Speyside distillery. Notes say it’s pretty sweet so I’m excited to try it! It was $35~ which is not bad.Not sure of prices where you are so I apologize if some of the suggestions are pricier than you are looking for.
I would check out Bowmore 12yr. This is an Islay whisky and I find it a nice coastal sip (you can close your eyes and taste the ocean).
Probably too expensive down in the US, but keep an eye out for Balvenie, either Doublewood or Caribbean Cask, on a menu somewhere and give them a try. They are pricey but both are interesting and less of a peat monster. Doublewood is matured first in an oak cask then in a sherry butt. Caribbean Cask starts in an oak cask and is finished in a rum cask, which give it an interesting flavour profile.
the store that I normally go to didn’t have any of the other suggestions so I settled for that one. There’s another store a town away that has BY FAR a greater selection, so I’ll be on the lookout for something different next time I’m there.