What brand of whiskey is better to choose. What is the best whiskey
A little about tape in general
As you know from the previous post, Scotland is considered the birthplace of whiskey, which is called scotch there (that is, not only there, but everywhere) and every bottle of drink produced in this country of the Kingdom is labeled Whiskey Scotch.
There are several significant differences between original Scotch and whiskey produced elsewhere, which can only be called Whiskey or Bourbon.
There are several types of Scotch whiskey:
- Malt is 100% barley malt scotch.
- Single Malt is a single malt whiskey made at one distillery and bottled there.
- Single Cask Malt is a blend of multi-malts aged in one barrel.
- Pure Malt is a blend of several single malt whiskeys from different distilleries aged in a single cask.
- Blend - blended whiskey, a combination of different varieties of malt and grain alcohols in various proportions.
- Grain is a whiskey made from pure wheat alcohol of very high quality. This is the most expensive brand of non-malt scotch.
- Single Grain - also a pure grain whiskey, lower in category.
- Grain Single Barrel - scotch only from a mixture of grain alcohols, aged in one barrel for at least 6 months.
- Pure Grain is a combination of several grain drinks produced by different distilleries.
We rarely find pure grain whisky. Most often - blend or single malt varieties. In total, 148 brands of Scottish scotch are now on the market.
The most famous brands of adhesive tape
If you ask someone who knows a little about whiskey what brand is the most famous, he will no doubt name Johnnie Walker. In Russian, the name sounds like Johnny Walker - this is the name of the founder of the distillery. The event happened in 1820. Now it is the best-selling brand in the world. There are 5 Johnnie Walker labels:
- The cheapest is Red Label. Its manufacturer positions it as an adhesive tape "for every day". It consists of 35 barley varieties, the basis is the Cardu brand, aged in sherry casks from 3 to 5 years.
The cost of a bottle with us ranges from 1.8-2.0 thousand rubles per bottle of 0.7 liters. Further I will indicate just such a spill - for convenience. The first price - in online stores and wholesalers, the second - in retail trade. This is the number 1 whiskey in the world. 7.5 million 9 liter boxes are sold annually worldwide!
- Black Label is a great blend, aged over 12 years. It contains almost 40 single malt spirits. It has the softest, honey taste and a light smoky note in the aroma. The cost is 3.0-4.2 thousand rubles.
- Gold Label, or it is also called the Golden Label, has an exposure of at least 18 years and is made up of 15 of the most valuable barley and grain alcohols. The recipe was developed for the centenary of Johnny Walker & Sons. It is considered the most "honey and smoky" brand. Price - within 5-5.5 thousand rubles.
- Platinum Label is the newest product of the company. Born in 2011, blended by Jim Beveridge. Alcohols are infused for at least 18 years, the composition is kept secret. Connoisseurs say that the blend was created under the influence of the blend master's trip to India. And so Scotch has a very strong, spicy and at the same time, sweet taste with a traditional smoky aroma. Price - about 8 thousand rubles.
Among the luxury varieties of whiskey, the brand has been holding the championship for decades Chivas Regal- products of the Chivas Brothers distillery (founded in 1801).
The blend is 39-41% malt whiskey. Three types are available: Chivas Regal 12 Y.O. with 12 years of aging (price is about 3 thousand rubles per 0.7 l), with 18 years - Chivas Regal Gold Signature 18 Y.O. (6.5 thousand rubles) and Chivas Regal Royal Salute 50 Y.O., created for the half-century anniversary of the Queen's coronation in 2003.
A special feature is colored bottles that imitate the play of precious stones on the royal crown. The price of an exclusive bottle is from 15 thousand rubles.
Whiskey Scotch Glenlivet, read as Glenlivet, is one of the best brands of Single Malt single malt whiskey. Date of birth - 1824. Aged from 12 to 25 years. Drying of malt is carried out with peat smoke, which is practically fresh in composition, extracted only in one place.
It has a fairly light golden color, honey flavor and a delicate smoky floral flair. It is aged in ex-bourbon barrels (one type is ex-sherry), and water has been taken from only one source for almost 200 years. Cost - from 4 thousand rubles. for a bottle of 12 years old up to 30-35 thousand - for 25 years of age.
Famous Grouse Scotland's national pride. Only there is wild partridge grouse, which is depicted on the label. Drink strength 43% alc. Consists of malt spirits from two distilleries. The best selling stamp in Scotland itself.
And at the same time, many houses have their own recipes for how to make Famewes Grouse. Connoisseurs note spices and orange in the taste, caramel in the aftertaste, and fruit (orange and cherry) and peat smoke in the aroma. The price is in the region of 2-2.5 thousand rubles.
Among the very famous and valuable brands, you should definitely mention:
- Ballantine's- third place in sales in the world. It has the title of "Impeccable Taste". Price from 1000 rubles. for 3 years of age and up to 35 thousand for aging for 30 years.
- Cutty Sark- the lightest and most original variety in taste. And the cheapest original adhesive tape - from 800 rubles. per bottle
- Dewar's White label l - the most complex blend in composition. He has a Royal Patent and more than 400 international awards. Exposure from 3 to 25 years, price 4-25 thousand rubles.
- Glenfiddich or scotch tape with deer antlers. Every 4th bottle sold in the world has them on the label. This is a single malt whiskey of the elite class. A bottle of a 40-year-old drink costs 210,000 rubles. The cheapest is about 4 thousand.
The most popular whiskey in Russia
Well, I want to complete my review with the most popular brand among compatriots. Naturally, this is the White Horse - white horse. Also, this whiskey is the first in Japan, the second in Brazil and the third in the US in popularity.
Interestingly, at home, this drink is not even included in the top 20. But on the other hand, the manufacturer is White Horse Distillers Limited, the only one to have the Queen's Award for Achievement in the Development of International Trade.
The distilleries were recently taken over by Diageo, which now owns almost half of the listed brands. The White Horse blend contains more than 20 types of malt and grain alcohols, the taste is sweet, with fruits, the aroma is smoky, with vanilla notes.
On this I say goodbye, although I could tell a lot more interesting things about scotch tape. I will switch to other drinks for now - well, so as not to be offended. Subscribe - and you will receive a letter with a new, exciting investigation on the topic of alcohol. And remember - everything is good in moderation!
Sincerely, Dorofeev Pavel.
Whiskey is an exquisite alcoholic drink that is made from grains of various types using special methods of distillation, storage and aging. Usually it is drunk in its pure form, or mixed in cocktails. Like any other type of alcoholic product, this drink is produced both in the highest and lower quality. In this article, we will give a whiskey rating so that you can decide which option to buy for a home feast, which one is not ashamed to give to a big boss, and which one to use as an investment for the future. After all, collectible bottles “leave” auctions for many thousands of dollars.
Rating of the best whiskey according to the authoritative magazine "Whiskey Bible"
First, it should be noted that the best whiskey is Scotch (Scotch) and Irish. Often a separate rating is compiled, exclusively for these species. Aging and composition are also important - after all, the drink can be single malt, double malt and multi-malt. Even the material from which the barrels for storing alcohol are made is important (oak barrels are considered the best). Taking into account all these factors, and make up a whiskey rating. So, let's listen to the opinion of experts and see how the authoritative sommeliers of the American magazine Whiskey Bible distributed the prizes:
1. In first place is Old Pulteney 21 YO, which earned 97.5 points out of 100 possible. The price for 700 ml is about 200-250 dollars, which is pretty good for the first place winner.
2. The second place of honor, according to experts of the Whiskey Bible, should be given to the noble drink George T. Stagg, the price for a bottle of which is about 150-160 dollars.
3. Parker's Heritage Collection Wheated Mash Bill Bourbon 10 YO is in third place. Its cost is much less - only 80-90 dollars for a bottle of 750 ml.
We have named three main winners of the rating. Experts then looked at the best varieties in different categories, such as Scotch (Scotch Whiskey), Single Malt Scotch, Irish Whiskey and American Whiskey. I must say that this, perhaps, the most authoritative whiskey rating in the world does not include the varieties of the drink that are widely known to Russian buyers. The only thing that was recognized as one of the best in the “Blended Scotch” category was the more or less familiar Johnnie Walker Black Label 12 YO.
The most delicious whiskey: customer opinion
Agree, you can take into account the opinions of experts about which whiskey is the best in the world. But is it worth relying on them when talking about the taste of the product? After all, sommeliers evaluate drinks according to some special, semi-secret criteria, and what may seem like a divine pleasure to them, an ordinary buyer will not like at all. So, let's look at the rating of whiskey by taste, based on the reviews of the consumers themselves, as well as sales estimates. So, William Lawson’s (Baccardi) is in first place, Johnnie Walker Black Label is firmly in second, and Maccalan whiskey is in third place. Whether experts agree with this rating is a big question... The above Top 3 drinks are based on sales growth data for 2013.
Whiskey rating in the world: top 10 most expensive drinks
Now we come to perhaps the most interesting, because collectible whiskeys cost tens of thousands of dollars, and few people buy them just to enjoy a fragrant drink, sitting by the fireplace and smoking a cigar. Such bottles are considered as investments and are carefully stored in special cabinets, which, by the way, also cost a lot of money. So, we present to your attention another whiskey rating. The main selection criterion in it was the price for one bottle of the drink (the rating is based on data from 2013):
1. In first place - a blend of three varieties of Macallan whiskey, a blend of 1946, at a price of $ 460,000 per bottle. Believe me, the cost of a drink will only increase over the years.
2. In second place is Glenfiddich Janet Sheed Roberts Reserve 1955 whiskey at a price of $94,000 per bottle (compared to the first-place winner, this price seems extremely “affordable”).
3. The third place is again with Macallan, but already with the 1926 blend. The price is $75,000 per bottle.
4. The fourth position is occupied by Glenfiddich of 1937 - it seems that the brands Glenfiddich and Macallan have entered into serious competition in terms of price and quality of the product. A bottle of Glenfiddich 1937 costs $71,700.
5. In fifth place is the rare Dalmore 62 Highland Malt Scotch Matheson whiskey at a price of $58,000 per bottle.
6. Positions six to ten were taken by Macallan 55, Dalmore 50, Glenfarclas 1955, Macallan 1939 and Chivas Regal Royal Salute 50, where the last number in the title is the number of years of aging. Prices per bottle range from $15,500 for Macallan 55 to $10,000 exactly for Chivas Regal Royal Salute 50.
Popularity rating of inexpensive whiskeys
Of course, it's good to be a millionaire and have a bottle worth ten off-road jeeps in stock ... However, such pleasure is not available to everyone. And therefore, let's look at the whiskey rating by popularity. It includes exactly those drinks that are available to the average customer, because their price does not exceed $30–40 for a standard 0.7 liter bottle. In the process of compiling the rating, the taste of the drink, quality, aftertaste and other important criteria were taken into account.
1. The first place belongs to Kingdom 12 Year Old Scotch whiskey: the product has 12 years of aging and a soft aftertaste.
2. Second on the list is Town Branch Bourbon, a famous American brand.
3. The third is Elmer T. Lee Bourbon Whiskey.
4. The fourth position is occupied by Black Bottle Blended Scotch whiskey (experts say that this “Scotch” has a bright aftertaste with fruity undertones).
5. In fifth place is Russell’s Reserve 6 Year Old Straight Rye Whiskey, it is noteworthy that its strength is 45 degrees.
Value for money: the continuation of the popularity rating of inexpensive whiskeys
If you are a lover, not a connoisseur of this drink, the first five names listed above are unlikely to cause you any associations. But, continuing the rating, you will finally see familiar brands in the list. So:
6. Six-year-old Sazerac Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey is in sixth place.
8. In eighth position - Smooth Ambler Exceptional White Whiskey. It is said to have a pronounced taste of cornmeal.
9. Ninth place was taken by a brand more or less familiar to Russians: the Johnny Drum Green Label drink has a standard 40 degrees and a slightly spicy taste.
10. And the last, tenth place is given to Johnny Drum Black Label, which also has a strength of 40 degrees, and in its taste and aftertaste - shades of vanilla and ... leather.
Popular cocktails containing whiskey
Making alcohol mixes is an art. And a professional bartender can name a dozen cocktails, which include the drink in question. Here are the best and most popular ones:
- the famous whiskey-cola mix (albeit only two ingredients, but still a cocktail) is a real bestseller;
- a cocktail called “Nail” or “Red Nail”, which also includes whiskey and Scottish liqueur “Drambuie”;
- many people like "Irish coffee" - a hot drink, where whiskey is also added.
In general, it is customary to drink the noble “Scotch” or “Single Malt” simply with ice, so there are not many cocktails with the addition of this Scottish or Irish drink. So, we looked at the rating of whiskey - the most expensive, as well as the most inexpensive, but at the same time of high quality, and the most popular with buyers. We hope our article will help you choose your drink or decide on a gift for a friend or colleague, because alcohol in this category is often used as a present for a birthday or any other holiday.
- single malt whiskey
- Blended whiskey
- Grain whiskey
- The best whiskey in the world
- How to choose whiskey?
Whiskey is a strong alcoholic drink made from various grains. There are stages in its preparation:
- Germination of seeds (malting).
- Fermentation.
- Distillation.
- Aging in oak barrels.
Usually whiskey is made from barley or wheat, but sometimes it can be made from rye. Separately, there is bourbon, which is made from corn. The strength of whiskey can vary over a very wide range, more often it is 32-50%, but sometimes there are drinks containing 60% alcohol. This variety makes it difficult to decide which whiskey to choose.
According to the difference in production technology, three types of whiskey are distinguished:
- malt;
- blended;
- grain.
single malt whiskey
This type of this drink is usually the answer to the question of which whiskey is the best, since it is considered elite, the most expensive and of high quality. Whiskey connoisseurs most fully enjoy single malt whiskey. The technology for the production of this drink is the longest, since it must be infused in oak barrels for at least 3 years. The average exposure time is 10 years.
Single malt (malt whiskey) whiskey - a drink for the production of which germinated barley (barley malt) is used. It must be distinguished from grain whiskey in order not to confuse which whiskeys are considered good.
The amazing ability of this whiskey is the dependence of its aroma and taste on the place of manufacture.
But single malt whiskey is not all the same, but has several subspecies:
- Actually single malt single malt whiskey is made at one distillery, although it allows blending fractions of different harvest years.
- Whiskey single cask is taken from one barrel, it can have cask strength (cask strength), but often it is brought to the standard.
- Quarter cask whiskey is taken from a smaller barrel, which must be American oak. In this case, the strength of the drink increases to 50%, the taste is more saturated, and the ripening process is accelerated. This type of whiskey is most often chosen by the stronger sex, which is not surprising.
- The last type of pure malt (otherwise, blended malt or vatted malt) is a mixture from different distilleries.
There was a well-founded opinion about single malt whiskey that it had too strong a smell and a somewhat unusual taste. For this reason, it began to be mixed with whiskey of other varieties. But such a drink can no longer be called single malt whiskey.
Video about which whiskeys are considered good
Although any single malt whiskey is produced according to standard technology, but in each region it acquires its own specific aroma, by which it is easy to distinguish it from others.
The producers have a little secret that they do not like to advertise too much: there are two different types - consumer whiskey and whiskey from merchants. Both varieties are good. The only difference is that whiskey from merchants is produced in small distilleries, so it is more expensive. The consumer version, on the other hand, is made on an industrial scale, so it is closer to the definition of a good inexpensive whisky. There is also a difference in personality. Consumer whiskey has a standard good taste and aroma, and the bouquet of whiskey from the merchants is very “dancing”, and not necessarily for the better.
The location of a particular distillery and climate will inevitably affect the quality of single malt whiskey, so each batch is unique in taste. The water used in production is also important, as is the way it is distilled.
The best single malt whiskeys can be found in bottles with the following names:
- Glen Grant, Glenfiddich.
- Bowmore, Highland Park.
- Aberlor Single Malt.
Blended whiskey
It is this type of whiskey that can most often be found in most stores, it is the most affordable. The prices for it are quite reasonable, and the taste is quite pleasant.
Blending is the blending of malt whiskeys with grains during the production. In total, the composition of the blend can include up to 50 different varieties. If the label contains the inscriptions “Deluxe” or “Premium”, then this indicates that the blend is made up only of elite expensive varieties, and the best whiskeys are in front of the buyer.
If we consider the issue in terms of sales volume, then 90% of whiskey sold in the world is blended. There are types of whiskey that contain a minimum of malt drink, such as Chivas Regal, although producers trumpet the opposite. Drinks containing a large proportion of the malt fraction are labeled "Delux", which is something you need to know before choosing a good whiskey. For those who do not yet understand the difference in the tastes of different whiskeys, it is best to study them by blended drinks.
Andrew Asher in 1853 developed the first recipe for blended whiskey, and it became the most common and was subsequently called "Old Vatted Glenlivet". Since 1860, whiskey production in England has come under state control. The meaning of blending is not so much to get a unique bouquet, but to maintain its stability from year to year. Any batch of the drink selected for blending immediately undergoes a tasting after distillation. And what kind of whiskey is better: single malt or blended - everyone decides for himself.
Famous representatives of blended whiskey are:
- Ballantines.
- Chivas Regal.
- Bell's.
Grain whiskey
Experts attribute grain whiskey to the lowest quality, even call it technical. Such a drink is made from burnt barley or corn. Grain whiskey also has a significant technological difference from malt whiskey in its production - for its distillation, special stills are used, in which steam contributes to the continuous production of alcohol. In the open sale, such a drink appears quite rarely, since it has almost no smell or taste. But after additional purification, it is used as a semi-finished product for the production of vodka or gin.
Famous brands of grain whiskey:
- Greenore.
- Choice Old Cameron Brig.
The best whiskey in the world
Whiskey producers established the World Whiskeys Award in 2007, which became a kind of Oscar for them. And there were several nominations:
- best malt;
- the best single malt;
- best blended,
as well as the best whiskey by producing countries:
- the best Japanese;
- the best Irish single malt, etc.
The historical spelling of the word "whisky" is whiskey, but in the late 19th century a corruption of the word "whiskey" appeared to distinguish producers in other countries.
New winners are announced every year, so the question of which whiskey is better is more rhetorical. So, in 2014 the following brands won:
- Sullivans Cove French Oak Cask is the best single malt whiskey in the world;
- Taketsuru 17 Years Old - the best blended whiskey;
- The Lost Distilleries Blend - the best blended whiskey;
- Sons of Liberty Pumpk in Spice - the best flavored whiskey;
- Master of Malt Speyside Whiskey Liqueur 40 Years Old - the best whiskey liqueur in the world;
- Teeling Single Grain - the best single grain whiskey;
- Thomas H Handy Sazerac is the best rye whiskey.
How to choose whiskey?
The qualities of whiskey, like other drinks, depend on the ingredients and their proportions, and they create a unique bouquet.
In Scotch whiskey, the main ingredient is barley malt, minimalism rules here. But the Irish decided to add rye there, which has become an integral part of the rich taste. America brought corn and wheat, and in Japan rice and corn get into whiskey along with barley.
A rather free choice and a combination of initial ingredients will not help in deciding which drink is better - this is solely a matter of personal taste. If we are talking about the best classic examples of whiskey, then Scottish and Irish drinks are undoubtedly in the lead. It is important to learn how to drink whiskey correctly in order to feel the fullness of the taste of the drink.
Video about which whiskey is the best
When choosing whiskey in a store, you should look at its composition and strength. The more modest the composition and the higher the fortress, the whiskey is considered “more solid”. Good whiskey can have a color from light yellow to brown.
The presence of sediment is not allowed.
On the walls of the bottle, when turned over, the liquid should go off in a “stocking”, and not in streams. After shaking the bottle with a drink, large air bubbles that do not disappear for a long time should appear in it.
Do you like whiskey? Which variety do you think is the best? Share your opinion in the comments.
There are many types of whiskey in the world. Producers of strong wine have been honing their manufacturing technology for centuries, testing recipes for creating unique alcohol. As a result of many years of trial and error, distillers around the world began to produce some of the most sought-after types.
Whiskey varieties
In accordance with the raw materials used and production technology, the following varieties are distinguished:
Malt whiskey
Single malt whiskey is considered the most expensive and refined. What does this mean? This alcohol is made from barley using a special technology and is made in accordance with old recipes and traditions. Initially, single malt whiskey was used as the basis for blending mixed alcohol.
In 1960, an old recipe for single malt alcohol was restored at the Glenfiddich distillery in Scotland. Connoisseurs of good wine appreciated the revealed taste and aromatic qualities of this noble drink. Since that time, single malt whiskey began to rapidly conquer the world alcohol market.
In turn, this type of strong alcohol has several options. What is the difference between single malt whiskeys?
- Vatted malt - cask whiskey. This type of drink is born by mixing malt alcohol from various distilleries (pure molt). Whiskey production technology at different enterprises is almost the same. But the water used and the special climatic conditions make the alcohol of each distillery individual. When mixing strong wines from different manufacturers, a noble drink of unique taste and aroma is obtained. This whiskey can be called two-malt, although officially there is no such concept in alcohol production technology.
- Single malt - whiskey from one distillery. For the manufacture of this type of alcohol, the manufacturer uses only single malt whiskey of its own production. In the technology of creating a drink, it is allowed to mix only the same type of alcohol of various degrees of exposure.
- Single cask - whiskey from one barrel. When creating this type of alcohol, the manufacturer varies only in strength. Extracted from one barrel, whiskey can have its own barrel strength acquired during maturation, or it can be brought by the creator to a standard strength.
Grain whiskey
This type of strong whiskey is made mainly from corn. This is the most base drink that has no flavor. The scope of the drink is the use for making blends. Although a small batch of grain whiskey in its pure form goes on sale.
The drink, which is planned to be used for blending, undergoes a single distillation. With more thorough distillation (up to 5 times), alcohol is used to create vodka and gin.
Blended whiskey
90% of the production volume is blended drink. What is the difference between single malt alcohol and blended alcohol? The answer is simple - composition. Blended alcohol consists of single malt and grain whisky. Each manufacturer of strong alcohol creates its own unique bouquet, taking into account the traditions and preferences of the consumer. The most famous and noble is the Scottish blended version.
When getting acquainted with this amazing drink, many people have a question - which whiskey is better single malt or blended. The answer to this question can only be found by tasting these drinks. As you know, there is no comrade for the taste and color. Someone likes the rich bouquet created as a result of blending. Someone prefers a discreet, monogamous drink. This problem can only be solved experimentally. And everyone will have their own decision.
Another type is bourbon. This is an American whiskey made from corn using a special technology. And, although it belongs to the category of whiskey, it has an absolutely unique taste and aroma, different from other types of this alcohol.
Classification by place of production
In addition to classification by composition, the drink is also divided by country of origin.
- Scottish (scotch). The most common type of whiskey is produced in Scotland. Traditionally, whiskey is considered to be Scotch, the alcohol for which was produced in Scotland. And it doesn't matter in what part of the world this drink was bottled. A huge number of distilleries supply single malt and blended whiskey to the world market.
- Irish. A distinctive feature of this alcohol is the absence of smoke flavor. Alcohol with such properties is born thanks to a special maturation process and the container used.
- American. In America, hard liquor is made from corn, rye, and a small amount of barley. Thanks to the peculiarities in the technological process and the unique recipe, the drink differs significantly from the Scottish and Irish.
- Canadian. In Canada, the main raw material for the production of alcohol is rye. On the labels of this drink there is a mark "RYE".
- Japanese. Alcohol produced in Japan goes to the Asian market, it is almost impossible to try it here. The quality of Japanese whiskey resembles scotch. The difference lies in the absence of peat aftertaste.
Each species is original in its own way and deserves attention. The final choice remains with the consumer.
If earlier whiskey was something strange and outlandish in our country, today this drink is loved by connoisseurs for its unique taste and aroma. Therefore, the question of how to choose whiskey as a gift is relevant. Even if a person does not consider himself a connoisseur, a bottle of aromatic drink will be a good present for a birthday or other important event. There are a few rules to help you make the right choice. Let's consider them in more detail.
Choosing the right whiskey
When choosing whiskey, buyers make simple mistakes. For example, they believe that the more expensive the drink, the better it is. Price is not the criterion to be guided by. Consider how to choose the right whiskey and what to look for.
- Regional differences.
The most famous whiskey is Scotch. The label must be labeled Whiskey or Scotch. Irish whiskey is labeled Whiskey. They have a persistent aroma perfectly combined with a soft, delicate taste.
American whiskey is called "Bourbon" and consists mainly of corn alcohol. The famous "Jack Daniels" consists of 80% of corn alcohol. This makes it taste really soft and light.
How to choose whiskey as a gift?
- Variety of whiskey
This is the first thing to pay attention to. This criterion directly affects taste, prestige and price. Allocate malt, grain and blended drink. Malt is made from pure barley, cereal from other crops, and blended is obtained by mixing the previous two types.
American whiskey, bourbon, is made from corn and is not classified, it is unique. Malt whiskey is considered the best, but it is almost impossible to find it in stores. This is a luxury drink. Cereal is also not found in stores due to low quality and almost complete lack of taste. When thinking about which whiskey to choose from inexpensive ones, look for well-known and trusted brands such as White Horse.
Blended whiskey accounts for about 90% of the total turnover and is designed for mass consumption
Many connoisseurs of spirits believe that Scotland is the birthplace of whiskey. Unless in Ireland this alcohol is extolled and revered just as strongly and with inspiration.
The first written mention of Scotch whiskey dates back to 1495. Information about recorded 89 years earlier.
For those who are curious about what Scotch whiskey is made of, it is worth knowing that there were already two varieties of it from the very beginning: malt (grain is soaked, germinated and dried with hot air) and grain. The production uses barley and other crops, primarily wheat and rye. As a result of the processes of malting, distillation, fermentation and long-term aging in oak barrels, the legendary drink is born.
The name "Scotch" in Scotland, in fact, is synonymous with whiskey - this can only be called that strong alcohol that was made and bottled at the distilleries of the country. At the same time, the double inscription - Scotch whiskey - is always indicated on the label.
For the inhabitants of the country, scotch tape has long become a national brand. In the 16th century, it was sold in local pharmacies as a medicine and only later spread everywhere. Many well-known brands of Scotch whiskey date back to the 19th century. It was then that the first distilleries were founded, which later became world-famous leaders in their industry.
The name whiskey is fixed by law and refers to alcohol produced in Scotland. Other countries write whiskey.Scotch whiskey classification
Today there are 126 distilleries in the country. They produce a total of about two thousand brands of Scotch tape in different price segments. Impressive, isn't it?
The country has developed a strict system of requirements for manufacturers. So, for example, the period of scotch aging should be at least 3 years, and the alcohol content in the finished product should reach at least 40%.
There are 5 main types of whiskey in Scotland:
- single malt- malt alcohol; alcohol is produced at one distillery in strictly regulated copper cubes;
- single grain- pure single-grain scotch, which is also produced at the same plant, but using a different technology;
- Blended Malt- blended (mixed) whiskey from different malt varieties; several distilleries are involved in the manufacture of the product;
- Blended Grain– blended whiskey from different grain varieties; the ingredients are produced by several distilleries;
- Blended Scotch- scotch, obtained by mixing malt and grain alcohols; this category is most often found on the Scottish market.
Top Brands of Scotch Whiskey
The list of the best brands of Scotch whiskey includes over a hundred items. Of these, 10 of the most popular brands in different categories can be distinguished (the cost is indicated in pounds for a bottle of 0.7 liters).
single malt
Glenfiddich (40-56.3%). The fifth generation of the Grant family owns the most famous brand of single malt Scotch whiskey. It got its name in honor of the Deer Valley, where the production is located. Since the cost of whiskey in Scotland depends primarily on the aging time, Glenfiddich prices start at 6.99 and go up to 2,900 and more. Classic varieties are aged for 12-18 years, premium - 21-30, old limited - 40-50. "Glenfiddich" has a pear-apple aroma with hints of sherry and heather honey.
The Glenlivet (40-61.5%). Glenlivet single malt whiskey has been known since 1824. It is produced in bourbon barrels, has a vanilla-floral aroma and a fruity taste with hints of nuts and honey. The brand is especially popular in the United States. The brand is represented by 12-25-year-old varieties costing from 18 to 1,250 pounds and more.
single grain
Cameron Brig (40-58.2%). The stamp has been produced since 1824. This scotch is aged 24-40 years and has a pleasant taste with hints of caramel, citrus, honey and apples. Due to its softness, it is ideal for those who are going to try whiskey for the first time. The value of the stamp is from 19 to 229.
Haig Club (40%). Among the grain brands, Haig Club, which appeared quite recently, in 2014, occupied a worthy place. Alcohol is distinguished by a mixture of pleasant aromas of orange, vanilla and apples, as well as the taste of fresh bananas and toffees with hints of tropical fruits. The brand is available at prices ranging from 20 to 270.
Blended Malt
The Famous Grouse (40-43%). Well-known to connoisseurs, the famous partridge brand - this is how the name of the brand, which appeared in 1905, is translated - is represented by several varieties. Most of them are made on the basis of a mixture of malt spirits. Scotch is characterized by a golden amber or tan color, as well as the taste of spices, dried fruits and vanilla. Whiskey is aged from 12 to 30 years. Prices for it are relatively low - 17-65.
Interestingly, Famous Grouse is the only blended whiskey that is delivered to the court of the British Queen herself.Monkey Shoulder (40%). For a long time, the process of malting barley was carried out manually. Sometimes because of this, industrial injuries arose - dislocations of the shoulder - which is reflected in the name of the whiskey "Monkey's Shoulder". This whiskey is made by blending the malt spirits of three distilleries. It has an exquisite vanilla-orange flavor with a hint of honey. The cost of the stamp starts from 22.
Blended Grain
Hedonism (43%). Among the blended grain whiskeys - there are very few brands in this category in the country - Hedonism stands out. Scotch is aged from 14 to 29 years in large American oak barrels. In "Hedonism" you can find the taste of coconuts, hops, toffee and hints of vanilla. Brand value - 54-240.
Snow Grouse (40%). Having appeared quite recently, in 2009, Snow Partridge blended whiskey quickly became in demand among Scotch whiskey lovers. Its strength and low cost - 20-27 pounds or a little more - as well as the taste of delicate vanilla, nutmeg and honey contributed to the growth of the brand's popularity. Snow Grouse is usually drunk chilled, which is why it is often compared to vodka.
Blended Scotch
Johnnie Walker (40–43%). Among the blended varieties of scotch "Johnny Walker" - one of the most famous and oldest, the brand has been produced since 1867. It can be purchased for 14-58 pounds; more expensive varieties will cost 625–832. Whiskey is aged from 3 to 25 years. There are five main lines in production: Platinum, Blue, Black, Gold and Red. They differ in aging time, as well as the composition of mixtures of malt and grain alcohols. The Green label is for malt spirits only.
Chivas Regal (40–43%). The blend has been known since 1801, when the Chivas brothers launched the production of the future popular brand. There are 85 flavors of this scotch, but they always have aromas of creamy caramel and dried fruits. Depending on the exposure - 12-25 years - the cost of Chivas Regal varies in the range of 22-235, more expensive varieties cost 1645-4166.
In addition to the brands mentioned, the most famous whiskey brands in Scotland are: Teacher's, Ballantine's, White Horse, Highland Park, Dewar's, Cardhu, Cutty Sark, Sovereign, Lord Kingsley, Peat Chimney, The Tweedale, Hazelburn, The Hive.
Scotch whiskey tasting
Tourists enjoy visiting whiskey museums in Scotland. There are two such institutions in the country: in Edinburgh and Dufftown, a small town. The museum in the Scottish capital is called The Scotch Whiskey Experience. Here you can not only learn the secrets of production, but also sit in a restaurant, take part in a tasting and buy a bottle of whiskey you like.
Another great opportunity to try the best brands is to visit whiskey festivals in Scotland. The most famous of them are organized in five places:
- in Edinburgh (June);
- Ivernisse (April);
- Islay (May);
- in Glasgow (November);
- Speyside (May).
What do you know about whiskey, except that it is drunk by the heroes of American films and is considered an exclusively male drink? Do you want to know more about its varieties, producers and taste characteristics? Indeed, in specialized stores and supermarkets it is very difficult for a beginner to navigate when choosing good alcohol. So that you do not get confused when buying, pay attention to the whiskey rating, which was compiled according to the reviews of real connoisseurs of this drink.
What is whiskey? This is a very strong, but tasty and aromatic alcohol, containing up to 60% alcohol. It was made on the basis of various grain crops - rye, barley, corn and even rice by malting, fermenting and distillation, and then allowed to mature in oak barrels for years.
The drink has a color from light yellow to red-brown and contains almost no sugar. The most famous and revered varieties are Irish and Scottish.
About appearance
Who, when and where was the first to make this divine drink, no one knows. The first written records about it appeared in the fifteenth century in Ireland and Scotland, but the "water of life", as the Celts began to call whiskey, was known for several centuries before that.
According to one version, the distillation of spirits began to be produced in the Middle East as early as the eighth or ninth centuries, and wandering Christian monks brought it to Ireland and Scotland.
You can get moonshine from almost any plant material, so the Celts used barley for this purpose, the Americans used corn, the Canadians used rye, and the Japanese used rice.
But the palm in the question of who owns the first whiskey recipe is still divided between the Irish and the Scots. The latter believe that the missionaries brought the method of making strong alcohol, but since grapes did not grow in the cold rocky area, the grape wine was replaced by barley beer. Braga was poured into a copper container and a fire was made under it, the vapors condensed in the coil, and then dripped drop by drop into the substituted dishes.
At first, a strong liquid was used exclusively for medicinal purposes, but gradually they learned to make it in every peasant household and drink it just for fun. Whiskey began to age in barrels much later, and earlier it was ordinary moonshine, which was consumed immediately after distillation. There was no talk of any aromas and exquisite taste qualities.
The Irish believe that whiskey was given to them by their patron Saint Patrick. Be that as it may, they were the first to enter the international market, having successfully established trade with the British, who then delivered the drink around the world.
The secret of cooking was brought to America in the seventeenth century by immigrants from the Old World, but instead of barley they began to use corn. The first production was established in the state of Kentucky, Bourbon County, so the drink began to be called "bourbon".
The freshly distilled distillate was aged in oak vats. Then, many distilleries began to use wine barrels - sherry, port or Madeira, which added new flavor notes to the drink. Experiments with taste began, spirits from different barrels were mixed, achieving new aromas and flavors. Often used and aging, when the last year or three whiskey is poured into other barrels.
Each producing country has its own cooking method, old recipes are kept in strict confidence, but you can’t hide an awl in a bag. The Scots dry the sprouted grains of barley in ovens that are heated with peat, after which the whiskey has a specific smoky aroma and flavor. The Irish do not use peat at all, but they use not double, but triple distillation of alcohol, due to which the whiskey becomes soft and easy to drink.
In Ireland, barley malt and rye are used for production, and in Scotland, only barley is used, which is grown on the islands and has a specific taste.
About high cost
The shortest period of maturation of the drink is three years. This whiskey is considered young, it can be sharp and quite aggressive. The most popular original varieties are aged in white American oak barrels for 10-12 years, and the elite ones - from twenty or more.
The most expensive whiskey in the world is Isabellas Islay, worth $6.2 million. This is a single malt Scottish drink from the Isle of Islay, made from high quality barley malt and aged for thirty years. True, it is not the drink that is of value, but a unique vessel encrusted with almost nine thousand diamonds and three hundred rubies, while the lid is made of white gold.
Second place goes to Aisla T'Orten, produced in Scotland at the beginning of the twentieth century. A barrel with valuable contents was kept by an English historian-collector for a long time, until one day he decided to sell it. A bottle of 0.7 liters of whiskey aged over a hundred years costs only 1.4 million dollars.
In third place - The Macallan in Lalique, it was sold for almost half a million dollars at one of the charity auctions. Its exposure was 64 years, and the drink was considered the oldest in the world of those that were bottled. True, a crystal vessel from the famous manufacturer Lalique, which was made in a single copy, was of great value.
Types of whiskey
If you are just starting your acquaintance with this drink, then you need to be able to understand its classification.
Malt
It is made exclusively from barley malt, not mixed with other grains. It is this variety that is considered one of the most expensive and high-quality.
It has two subspecies.
- Single malt- produced by one distillery and may contain hundreds of spirits obtained at different times and with different degrees of maturation.
- Cask (blended malt)- a mixture of spirits of different strengths and saturations from different distilleries, is quite rare.
Grain (grain whiskey)
For production, barley and corn grain are used, and only one distillation is provided. Alcohol turns out to be of low quality and is used for blending, as well as the manufacture of vodka and gin.
In the retail sale of grain whiskey can be found only in Scotland, it is represented by the only brand in the world "Choice Old Cameron Brig".
Blended
Blended whiskey, or blended, is considered the most popular and widespread. It is obtained by blending malt and grain whiskeys of different varieties, aging and saturation. This drink occupies 90% of the entire market.
Bourbon and Tennessee
American whiskey, which is made from corn and matures in oak barrels, burned from the inside. It was first made in Bourbon County, Kentucky, which is why it bears that name.
Tennessee got its name from the state of the same name. Its technology includes cold filtration through a three-meter layer of pressed maple charcoal. It is made at the stage of pouring alcohol into barrels, while bourbon is filtered immediately before bottling.
TOP 2 of the most famous American whiskey companies.
- Jack Daniels The American company was founded in 1866. The drink is made from corn (80%), barley (12%) and rye (8%). Its feature is filtering through a three-meter layer of sugar maple coal, which makes the whiskey soft.
- Jim Beam- Founded in 1795. Today it is the best-selling type of bourbon. The must contains corn (78%), rye (13.5%) and barley (8.5%). The family recipe for making the drink has been passed down from generation to generation and has not been lost to this day.
TOP-2 Irish manufacturers.
- - The distillery was opened in 1780 in the capital of Ireland, Dublin. This company is considered the world leader in sales.
- Tullamore dew- Founded in 1829. Whiskey of this brand is rightly called the best produced in Ireland.
TOP 5 Scottish brands.
- Johnnie Walker- the first place in the list of manufacturers from Scotland. The company was founded in 1820 and to this day is engaged in the manufacture of an excellent blended drink for different segments of the population and wallet sizes. It is the availability with excellent quality that has gained popularity among whiskey connoisseurs.
- Chivas Regal- the creation of the Chivas brothers saw the light in 1801. The main feature is the softness of the drink, which is not at all inherent in Scottish scotch, and this is what whiskey is called in Scotland.
- white horse- "White Horse" appeared on the market in 1883, although the bottle label indicates 1742, when the founder of the company, the Mackey family owned the tavern of the same name. The blend contains 70% grain and 30% malt whiskey. This brand is the most popular in Russia and Japan, ranks second in Brazil and third in the United States, although it is not even in the top twenty in its homeland.
- Glenfiddish- the distillery was founded in 1886 and named after the picturesque area where it was built, translated from Gaelic means "deer valley". The emblem of the company is the head of a deer. The brand specializes in the production of elite single malt whiskeys with a minimum exposure of 12 years.
- Cardhu The distillery was founded by a woman. Helen Cumming lived until the age of 97, and she was engaged in production until the 90s, after which her daughter-in-law Elizabeth took the reins of power into her own hands. Single malt scotch has a mild and delicate taste and is more considered ladies'.
Whiskey rating - an overview of the best drinks
And now let's go directly to the rating so that you know which whiskey is better to choose for drinking with friends or at a family celebration, and which bottle to put in a home bar and savor in the evenings in front of the fireplace with a cigar in hand.
12th place. Crown Royal
| Type of drink | Blended |
| A country | Canada, Ontario |
| Manufacturer | Diageo |
| Excerpt | 10 years |
| Bottle | Glass, 0.75l |
| Fortress | 40 % |
| Color | Intense honey golden |
| Aroma | Caramel, wood, tobacco and smoke on one side, flowers, citrus fruits and apples on the other. |
| Taste |
The aftertaste is long and persistent. |
| Use | Recommended as a digestif, with ice. |
| Price | 1 900 rubles |
"Crown Royal" was released especially for the arrival in Canada in 1939 of the English monarch George VI. After numerous experiments, a drink unique in its composition was created, which is appreciated not only by the royal person. It uses a blend of about fifty of the best whiskeys of different aging years.
Crown Royal became available for wide use only 25 years after its creation and immediately won the recognition of connoisseurs as "the legendary drink of Canada."
Before use, it is desirable to cool to 10 degrees.
What are users saying?
Advantages:
- royal whiskey;
- original design and packaging, dark blue velvet case;
- great to drink both in pure form and in cocktails;
- combined with juice, water and other drinks;
- balanced and pleasant taste;
- rich blend;
- affordable price.
Flaws:
- you can get used to it.
11th place. Highland Queen 12YO
| Type of drink | Blended |
| A country | |
| Manufacturer | Glenmorangie |
| Excerpt | 12 years in oak barrels |
| Bottle | |
| Fortress | 40 % |
| Color | Amber |
| Aroma | Rich and rich, combines powdered sugar, canned , black pepper and oriental spices |
| Taste |
Aftertaste of medium duration, with hints of milk chocolate, nuts, ginger, fruits. |
| Use |
|
| Price | 2 530 rubles |
The company was founded at the end of the nineteenth century and was originally called Macdonald & Muir. A hundred years later, it became known as Glenmorangie, after the distillery of the same name.
Highland Queen is the product of decades of experimentation and blending of different whiskeys. The drink was first released in 1893 and became the hallmark of the company. Whiskey "Highland Queen" got its name in honor of Queen Mary Stuart, who landed on the coast and rode as far as Edinburgh, the capital of Scotland. On the label of each bottle you can find the image of a rider.
The greatest recognition was received in the seventies of the last century. Since then, whiskey has been imported to many countries around the world.
What are users saying?
Advantages:
- soft and balanced taste;
- well-known brand, inexpensive price;
- pleasant aftertaste;
- complex aroma, long aftertaste.
Flaws:
- disappears too quickly
- for an amateur, a peculiar taste;
- alcoholism, hangover;
- simple design;
- difficult to buy
- harsh and aggressive.
10th place. Caol Ila Single Malt
| Type of drink | Single malt |
| A country | Scotland, Islay |
| Manufacturer | Caolila |
| Excerpt | 12 years |
| Bottle | Glass, 0.75 l, gift box |
| Fortress | 55 % |
| Color | Amber |
| Aroma | Difficult. Smooth and light at first, then clean and aggressive, includes:
When diluted with water, the smell of the medicine softens, the aromas of wet wool and a steam engine appear. |
| Taste |
|
| Use | Can be drunk as an aperitif, digestif. Good with cigars. |
| Price | 4 610 rubles |
Elite whiskey is made at the distillery, which is located on the seafront in the northern part of Islay. Nearby is a lake with the purest, lime-rich water. It is it that serves as the main supplier of water.
Whiskey matures in oak barrels, and then immediately bottled. The alcoholic drink is very strong, so it needs to be pre-diluted with a little water to soften the smoky, resinous-pepper and peaty taste.
It goes well with seafood, especially smoked, sushi, meat and mushroom dishes.
What are users saying?
Advantages:
- modest design, wooden cork;
- the taste is balanced and rich;
- oily consistency inherent in expensive and high-quality varieties of alcohol;
- pleasant to drink;
- interesting and unique.
Flaws:
- taste for an amateur - there is bitterness;
- very strong, needs to be diluted;
- expensive.
9th place. The Black Grouse
| Type of drink | Blended |
| A country | Scotland |
| Manufacturer | The famous grouse |
| Excerpt | 3 years |
| Bottle | Glass, 0.7l |
| Fortress | 40 % |
| Color | Intense, combines reddish, brown and golden hues |
| Aroma | Sweetish and smoky peaty with hints of malt and oak |
| Taste |
The finish is long, smoky with oak notes. |
| Use | As a digestif, goes well with coffee and cigars. |
| Price | 1 730 rubles |
The label of the bottle depicts a black grouse, however, the name of the drink is translated in the same way.
Black Grouse is a blend of Famous Grouse whiskey with Islay single malts. It is considered quite rare and valuable drink. From each bottle sold, fifty cents are transferred to the fund for the protection of rare birds, in particular black grouse.
The taste is sweetish with slight hints of oak and malt. It has a long peaty aftertaste. It is not recommended to dilute with water, juice and other drinks - this can only spoil the taste. But a piece of ice or a couple of drops of ice water will reveal the aroma and taste sensations to the fullest. Pairs well with coffee and cheese snacks.
What are users saying?
Advantages:
- velvety and tart taste, rich aroma;
- good and relatively inexpensive;
- nice smell;
- unusual taste, it has a little bit of everything - a good balance;
- great option for a festive evening;
- easy to drink, especially with coffee;
- oak aftertaste;
- for those who love "smoked" whiskey.
Flaws:
- strong;
- too high price;
- little exposure.
8th place. Red Label Johnnie Walker
| Type of drink | Blended |
| A country | Scotland |
| Manufacturer | Johnnie walker |
| Excerpt | 3 years |
| Bottle | Glass, 0.7l |
| Fortress | 40 % |
| Compound | Barley, wheat |
| Color | Light red-gold |
| Aroma | A touch of vanilla and smoked malt |
| Taste |
|
| Use | Ideal for mixing cocktails, goes well with apple and cherry juice, Coca-Cola and tonic. |
| Price | 1 570 rubles |
Red Label is considered the most famous and popular Scotch whiskey in the world and the foundation of the entire empire of the Johnny Walker Company, which will be 200 years old next year. The formation of the business began with tea blending, and later experiments began with single malt whiskey.
The red and black labels on the bottles are a distinctive feature of the brand. A hundred years ago, the drink was sold in 120 countries around the world.
"Red" whiskey is a standard classic blend. It includes Cardhu whiskey with a honey flavor, as well as peaty varieties with smoky notes. It has a sharp and slightly aggressive taste, due to its short exposure.
What are users saying?
Advantages:
- no hangover;
- beautiful bottle;
- democratic price.
Flaws:
- at temperatures above 22 degrees too aggressive;
- hard taste;
- not the most “easy” disposition of this drink;
- male drink, not suitable for women;
- sharp, gives alcohol;
- only for connoisseurs.
7th place. Jack Daniel's
| Type of drink | Blended |
| A country | USA, Tennessee |
| Manufacturer | |
| Excerpt | 4 years in white American oak barrels |
| Bottle | Glass, 0.7l |
| Fortress | 40 % |
| Compound | Corn, barley, rye |
| Color | Amber |
| Aroma | Light, sweetish, with notes of spices and nuts, smoky nuances |
| Taste |
|
| Use |
|
| Price | 2 190 rubles |
This type of whiskey has more than a century and a half history. It is made according to old recipes and technologies, has a classic, but individual style and character.
The softness of "Jack" is achieved by filtering through a three-meter layer of sugar maple charcoal, and the aroma and taste - from the addition of pure spring water during distillation, as well as fermentation in sour must. Whiskey matures in oak barrels. The manufacturing process is long, laborious and expensive, but the taste is considered one of the best of all known bourbons.
What are users saying?
Advantages:
- high-quality and worthy drink for the male half of humanity;
- head fresh in the morning, no hangover;
- ideal for whiskey-cola;
- the best whiskey in the world;
- a classic drink without "flirting" and extra bouquets;
- beautiful bottle;
- the most delicious of serial, but high-quality bourbons.
Flaws:
- you can get involved;
- depending on the country of purchase, there is a difference in tastes;
- expensive;
- you can often find a fake;
- faceless mass market;
- more pathos than taste. gives off alcohol.
6th place. Bushmills Original
| Type of drink | Blended |
| A country | Ireland, County Antrim |
| Manufacturer | bushmills |
| Excerpt | 6 years in American oak sherry casks |
| Bottle | Glass, 0.7l, gift box |
| Fortress | 40 % |
| Color | Golden |
| Aroma | Fruity with a touch of spice, vanilla, ice cream and creme brulee |
| Taste |
|
| Use |
|
| Price | 1 939 rubles |
"Bushmills" is the oldest distillery in the world, it began its work in the early seventeenth century. That is why the products of this company is considered the benchmark for the quality of Irish whiskey. To create a drink, only barley malt dried with peat is used, and triple distillation is also used.
Bushmills Origin is made from the oldest recipe in existence. A blend of triple-distilled malt whiskey and Irish grain whiskey provides softness and lightness of the drink.
What are users saying?
Advantages:
- unique taste;
- very good price for such quality;
- original bottle;
- drink softly;
- fragrant and tasty;
- classic "Irish";
- no headache in the morning.
Flaws:
- expensive;
- no aftertaste;
- sense of alcohol.
5th place. Jameson
| Type of drink | Blended |
| A country | Ireland |
| Manufacturer | |
| Excerpt | 6 years old, oak barrels |
| Bottle | Glass, 0.7 l |
| Fortress | 40 % |
| Compound | Amended water, whiskey grain and barley distillates, natural color |
| Color | Intense amber |
| Aroma | Sherry, dried fruits, vanilla and spices |
| Taste |
|
| Use | Serving temperature 20o, recommended as a digestif. |
| Storage | From +5 °C to + 25 °C, humidity not more than 85%. |
| Price | 1 828 rubles |
This flawless whiskey is considered the softest in the world, made using ancient traditions. Since the end of the nineteenth century, "Jameson" has ranked first among all other Irish whiskeys. Elizabeth I appreciated the mild taste and was considered an admirer of it.
A distinctive feature is triple distillation, while the Scots use only double distillation. The final product loses some flavor nuances, but acquires lightness and delicate taste.
Jim Murray, a famous English writer and connoisseur of whiskey, awarded this drink as much as 95 points.
What are users saying?
Advantages:
- a wonderful drink with a mild taste;
- the best in terms of price-quality ratio;
- unique taste will outdo any Scotch whiskey;
- high quality;
- no unpleasant aftertaste;
- original bottle;
- after him a slight hangover;
- ladies drink.
Flaws:
- you can easily get carried away and "sort out";
- as part of the dye, albeit natural;
- for an amateur, a little harsh;
- often forged;
- ends quickly;
- Expensive, not for every day.
4th place. Evan Williams Extra Aged (Black)
| Type of drink | Bourbon, Straight |
| A country | USA, Kentucky |
| Manufacturer | Evan Williams |
| Excerpt | 5 years |
| Bottle | Glass, 0.75 l, gift box with two glasses |
| Fortress | 43 % |
| Color | Amber, medium intensity |
| Aroma | Light with hints of marmalade, vanilla and oak |
| Taste |
The aftertaste is rich and long. |
| Use |
|
| Price | 1 382 rubles |
For the production of the drink, the Evan Williams company uses the purest water from a nearby lake, malted barley, fresh corn and wheat, and the distillation itself takes place on modern equipment. Whiskey matures in oak barrels, which were made by hand.
The brand is the second most popular not only in the US, but also in the world.
What are users saying?
Advantages:
- sharp, creamy enveloping;
- good bourbon at a reasonable price;
- of adequate quality, it is quite suitable for use in the company.
Flaws:
- the corn and the young biting oak are all too obvious. Plus root crops, old needles and washing powder;
- drinking in its pure form is not pleasant, it is better to dilute it with Coca-Cola or juice.
3rd place. Grant's Ale Cask Finish
| Type of drink | Blended |
| A country | Scotland |
| Manufacturer | William Grant and Sons |
| Excerpt | In ale casks |
| Bottle | Glass, 0.75 l |
| Fortress | 40 % |
| Color | Golden |
| Aroma | Fresh creamy |
| Taste |
|
| Use | Pure with ice |
| Storage | +5 to +20 °C, in a dry and cool place |
| Price | 1 885 rubles |
Scotch whiskey is produced by William Grant & Sons. The products of this well-known family firm are popular all over the world and are sold in more than one hundred and eighty countries.
This is the only type of whiskey that matures in Edinburgh ale casks during the last stages of aging. After three months, the drink acquires a unique bouquet with creamy and honey notes.
What are users saying?
Advantages:
- a suitable drink for a company and a feast;
- the aroma is light and pleasant, not intrusive and without smoky notes;
- pleasant alcohol for every day;
- interesting blend for a reasonable price;
- sourness turning into sweetness.
Flaws:
- mid-level products, but not the most disgusting;
- I won’t buy in a home bar;
- the taste seemed uninteresting and rough;
- inexpressive;
- sharp and futile.
2nd place. Brora Single Malt Whiskey
| Type of drink | Single malt |
| A country | Scotland, highlands (highlands) |
| Manufacturer | Diageo |
| Excerpt | 37 years in American oak barrels |
| Bottle | Glass, gift box, 0.7 L |
| Fortress | 51,9 % |
| Color | light amber |
| Aroma | Soft and fruity with slight smoky notes, umami plums and sushi. |
| Taste |
|
| Use | With the addition of water or ice, after meals as a digestif. |
| Price | 107 560 rubles |
The Brora distillery was mothballed in the early eighties due to the unbearable tax burden on the production of alcoholic beverages - then more than two dozen enterprises were closed in the country. Its owners promise the opening of production any day, the first whiskey is expected this year, although fresh releases from the company's stocks could be found earlier.
Brora 34 is an exclusive premium release released two years ago in limited quantities (only three thousand bottles) - the drink was distilled just a year before the distillery closed.
The taste and aroma are dominated by fruity notes with light and soft nuances of smoke, since at that time peat was used in much smaller quantities.
What are users saying?
Advantages:
- expensive elite drink;
- delicate, but "juicy" taste with many undertones and nuances;
- interesting whiskey - at first a marine tone, and aftertaste - wood and dried fruits;
- balanced;
- a legendary release from a long-closed company is a rarity.
Flaws:
- not that the taste is too outstanding. Rather, it “presses” longevity and uniqueness;
- price.
1st place. Benromach speyside single malt
| Type of drink | Single malt |
| A country | Scotland, speyside |
| Manufacturer | Benromach |
| Excerpt | 10 years old, in bourbon and sherry casks. |
| Bottle | Glass, 0.7l |
| Fortress | 43 % |
| Color | Amber |
| Aroma | Multilayer:
|
| Taste |
|
| Use | Pure or with the addition of water at room temperature, after which tones of oak and malt are revealed, as well as exotic fruits - kiwi, pineapple and others. |
| Price | 7 770 rubles |
Benromach is a product of the oldest Scottish company Gordon & MacPhail, which is over one hundred and twenty years old. From the day of its foundation, it purchased only high-quality spirits and aged them in barrels until the best taste qualities were achieved. Gordon & Macphail have the richest collection of whiskeys in the world, some of which are over half a century old. And this despite the fact that the distillery is very small, and only two people cope with the manufacturing process.
This drink is made only from pure barley malt without admixture of cereals, therefore it is called single malt. First, barley grains are germinated and then dried in ovens that are heated with peat, so the whiskey has a pronounced smoky taste.
After fermentation, the whiskey is distilled twice with the purest water from the glaciers, and then aged in oak barrels made of white American oak, after which the drink acquires its amber color and exquisite aroma.
The first nine years of whiskey matures in barrels of bourbon and sherry, and the last year is aged in barrels of sweet Oloroso sherry.
What are users saying?
Advantages:
- one of the best ten year old whiskeys;
- a truly elite drink;
- stunning peat smoke;
- good fortress;
- price-quality ratio;
- sharp and spicy, pleasantly tingles the tongue;
- beautiful decoration.
Flaws:
- you can drink, but do not cling;
- the balance is so-so;
- the influence of sherry is not very noticeable;
- in its pure form is too strong, it is better to dilute with water, especially since the aroma and taste become much more interesting.
What to look for when choosing whiskey
- First of all, look who is the manufacturer. If Scotland, Ireland, USA, Canada or Japan, then you can safely take it. In order not to run into a fake, pay attention to how the label is glued, whether the letters are erased, whether there are plastic "blotches" on the cork. Outwardly, the bottle should look solid, "tidy" and rich.
- Always read the composition of the drink. You will never see methyl or ethyl alcohol, flavors, food additives and other obscure ingredients in real whiskey. Only malt, barley, corn or rye and nothing else.
- If the percentage of grain whiskey is indicated in the composition, then this is no longer an elite single malt drink, but a blended one.
- Are there different aging years? So you have a blend of different varieties. Such whiskey will not cost much, because it is not bottled from one unique barrel, but is blended from many different spirits.
- The term of maturation of the product is also of great importance. If you want to treat yourself to an expensive single malt drink, then choose an exposure of eight years. Because young three-year-old varieties will not differ much from mass blended ones.
- Shake the bottle - real whiskey will show itself in large bubbles that will last a long time.
The culture of drinking
What is the right way to drink whiskey? This is best known to the Scots, who came up with the five S rule: Sight, Smell, Swish, Swallow, Splash. If you interpret it in Russian, then you get the rule of five Ps: Look, Smell, Taste, Swallow and Splash water.
It is customary to drink the drink from special thick-walled glasses with a narrowed top, which contributes to the concentration of aromatic vapors. It is necessary to pour a small amount - with a thickness of a finger.
First you need to enjoy the color, texture and aroma of the drink, spinning it in a glass and bringing it to your nose, and only then take the first sip. A good whiskey will have a long and pleasant aftertaste. It is customary to dilute some brands of whiskey with water or juice, add ice. Single malt is drunk only in its pure form.
Simple blends and short-aged whiskey go well with apple juice, it is customary to snack on cheese and seafood. Bourbons can be diluted with water and added sugar - this mix is very popular in America. No less popular is a mixture of soda or cola with whiskey.
True connoisseurs prefer not to mix the drink at all and not dilute it, except to add a few drops of cold spring water, which “reveals” the taste and aroma to the fullest.
Conclusion
Now you know everything or almost everything about this noble gentlemen's drink. At least you will not get confused when you choose a bottle or two in the store for a family bar or a present. And our whiskey rating will help with this.
Let's try to figure out which whiskey is the best inexpensive whiskey in Russian stores today.
Whiskey, like whiskey, is a noble alcohol, the use of which is invariably associated with success and status. But what if we forget about all these stereotypes and its obligatory high cost, and try to choose whiskey according to the “yellow” price tag?
Its strength varies 40 to 60 percent, and barley, corn, oats and rye act as the basis for creating alcohol. The history of whiskey is closely connected with the English monasteries, in which this drink was used for medicinal purposes. Over time, the recipe spread throughout Europe and gained popularity among the economically successful segments of the population.
The Russian market cannot offer domestic whiskey to potential consumers. But the import of this elite alcoholic beverage is carried out on a global scale. The main importing country is the UK. Ireland, USA and Canada follow.
Whiskey brands of various price categories are widely available. But consumers are mostly interested in a product designed for the mass market. Is there an affordable but worthy alcohol in this segment?
The Johnnie Walker brand delivers more than 100 million bottles of whiskey to the world market every year. In the domestic space, two brands of branded drink are especially popular:
Red Label - blended 40% cold filtered whiskey. The taste is dominated by smoky notes, which are diluted with a soft hint of vanilla. The sharpness of the drink can be noted, which is dulled by cooling it.
Price: 2,483 rubles per 1000 ml.
Reviews: the average consumer rating is 6 points. Tasters note the classic, very pleasant taste. Its only drawback is a certain “flatness” and lack of zest.
Black Label - blended 43% cold filtered whiskey. It has a dominant smoky tone, hints of malt and fruity sherry. Citrus shades and a slight aftertaste of raisins are visible. It has a "solid" aftertaste with a peaty and fruity tint, which makes it recommended to drink the drink in its pure form.
Price: 2,615 rubles for 500 ml.
Reviews: the average consumer rating is 8 points. Consumers note that alcohol has earned high marks due to its smoky-sweet taste, and a complex bouquet of various notes that gradually unfolds. No cons were found as such, but for some Black Label may be too strong.
Chivas Regal 12 years old – this is the undisputed leader among the Scottish blended elite whiskeys. The strength of the drink reaches 40%. Chivas Regal is aged in oak barrels. The flavor range consists of rich shades of honey apples, nuts, toffee and vanilla. The aftertaste is long and bright.
Price: 3,322 rubles for 700 ml.
Reviews: the average consumer rating is 9 points. Tasters note the pleasant aroma of wild herbs and heather with an admixture of honey and sweetness. A special love was found by the combination of Chivas Regal 12 YO with strong cigars or black coffee.
The blended whiskey is aged in sherry casks. It has an intense golden color, a strict aroma of wood and sherry.
The main flavor motif is woody. There are floral and spicy notes. The peculiarity of the drink lies in the double aging: 12 years the best "representatives" of malt whiskey mature in barrels. Then they are combined and ripened for another year, acquiring a special bouquet.
Price: 3,500 rubles for 700 ml.
Reviews: the average consumer rating is 9. Buyers note a delicate smell that does not “beat” on the nose, like some strong alcoholic drinks with a long exposure. Another noteworthy detail is the spicy-oak, warming aftertaste, for which whiskey is drunk in its purest form.
Ballantine's 12 YO blended whiskey is aged in bourbon casks and has an amazing creamy honey taste, as well as light shades of flowers, oak and sweetness.
The aftertaste is fundamentally different from the main "theme" of the drink and has a refreshingly salty aftertaste. The fragrance is very harmonious, but goes more into the woody theme. Sweet and vanilla notes play rather weakly.
Price: 3,400 rubles for 700 ml.
Reviews: the average consumer rating is 9.5. The main advantages noted by consumers are a very unusual aftertaste, which adds a special “zest” to the drink.
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