Enjoyed the video. My Dad’s Scot, and you have to understand Scotland is not an easy landscape. It’s stunningly beautiful but just as harsh and unforgiving. And single malts reflect that 100%. You can start with the Glen ( Glenfidich) and move to a Macallan 18 or so, but not until you get to the Laphroaig 10, which is a full blast of whale piss are you starting to appreciate all that is Scotland. Then you slide into the Laphroaig triple wood and the heavens open and the sun shines on your face and off the salt spray from the waves and you smile. Then you journey a little further down the isle and land on the Ardbeg and indulge in the Uigeadail and everything seems right with the world and the emerald green expanse in front of you reflects into the bottom of your soul and warms you to your toes. And upon the final journey down the isle you end up at Lagavulin and at first taste of the 16 you know there is a God. And when you pour a dram of the Distillers Edition you know you’ve seen the face of God and smiled. And all the glory of Scotland, it’s pride and history and traditions make sense and you can savor the traditional Burn’s Supper with many large drams of the Distiller’s perfection.
Tried Ardbeg for the first time last weekend. It tasted like I was sitting next to a bonfire at the beach and somebody shaved their balls, threw the hair into the fire, then the smoke from the fire blew directly into my mouth.
Awesome ain't it?! I love Ardbeg but never would have made the analogy you did. Scotch is an acquired taste and I've acquired it. I say this while drinking Old Grand Dad 100 proof. Quite a difference to say the least.
Scotch is my first love and not only have I tried but own all the ones on the list. First let me say you’re 100% right about the Aberlour A’Bunadh (one of my favorite) and Bunnahabhain. If you ever get a chance to buy or try the Bunnahabhain 18 do it. It’s worth it. Second for a list of showing someone who normally doesn’t drink single malt what they have to offer you’re spot on. Only thing I might change is the Macallan or GlenDronach 12 and possibly add something from Campbeltown. As always amazing job and facts. Slainte 🥃
Lagavulin 16!! I started with bourbon, going up in proof with 1920, Stagg Jr., ECBP. I always wanted to try scotch, thought I would love sherry but when I tried Lagavulin 16 at a party it blew my mind. Been really into Peat since. (Lagavulin 16, Ardbeg 10, Port Charlotte)
I've had the Glenmorangie, the Balvenie, the Bunnahabhain, and the Ardbeg and liked them all, but I put the Glenmorangie at the top of those. I think that bourbon drinkers would also like the Balvenie Sweet Toast of American Oak, it's excellent. I also love Edradour 10yo.
Thank you for this I have spent most of 2020 as a bourbon junkie but am looking to explore. I will definitely come back to this video in 2021 as I begin to step out into Scotch.
I really hated Scotch growing up but it seems my tastes have changed as I've gotten older. I bought my 1st bottle of Scotch about a month ago. Some Aberfeldy Highland Single Malt that my brother in law convinced me to try. Really good stuff. Bought my second bottle about a week ago, some Aberlour and wow, that's some great stuff too, as you mentioned in this video! I recommend both to anyone who loves bourbon like me. You will be pleasantly surprised at how good those are.
Great video. Been trying to find some scotches I would like (never really been a fan) so I took your advice and I got the Bunna 12 and I'm blow away by how good this stuff is. At like $50 this is going to put a major dent in my future bourbon purchases...Got the Quinta Ruban in my bar to try next!
Great list! I'm a Bourbon drinker and I agree with your picks except for the Ardbeg. Peated whiskys just doesn't get along well with my palate. I would add Glenlivet 18 yr old (Speyside), and Deanston 12 yr old ( Highland) for Bourbon drinkers to try.
Adding the Tomatin 12 year bourbon and sherry casks to your list. Originally visited the distillery while on vacation in Scotland. Found it in Portland OR for less than $40. Enjoy.
I’ve been a single malt guy for years. But until the last 5 years or so just slowly fell in love with Bourbon. That being said, I will always keep a bottle of The Dalmore on the shelf & still reach for it quite frequently. Most of my bourbon friends also enjoy it as well. Im curious about the scotch being barreled in the used charred oak barrels. 2 best worlds collide!
As a Brit who loves whisky and bourbon I found this interesting... For bourbon drinkers I’d recommend the Glengoynes (15, 18 and 21 especially) and anything by Glenfarclas. I’d also recommend checking out Murray McDavid as an independent bottler, they make some cracking stuff, really know their stuff! For anyone in the US the BEST investment you could make is (once the Covid nonsense is over) is get a flight here and attend a festival. They happen in most major cities, I live near Birmingham and we have 2 great ones, one in March and one in September. You can try so much new stuff and learn from the distilleries/distributors more about the product.
Have to say you’re spot on with the list. I have one of each and they are excellent. Give the Kilkerran 8 Cask Strength and a particular favorite, Port Charlotte Islay Barley...cheers.
Great job Jason! Couple of suggestions: Don Draper drank Canadian Club, not Scotch. I would also recommend GlenDronach 12 over Macallan 12. Macallan's cut and barrel quality has really fallen off.
Christopher Hitchens talking about Johnnie Walker Black Label on UA-cam videos got me to try it, Red and Double Black and I fell in love with Scotch and with Whiskey much more in general.
Epic video! I'm a Scotch lover who came to Bourbon second and now can't' get enough. It' all about the Islay Scotches and Lagavulin 16 was the scotch that changed my life. If you like peated scotch give Compass Box Peat Monster a try. Cheers!
When transferring from bourbon to scotch, I had 2 different ones. My first taste of scotch was Laphroig, and it almost made me quit immediately. Then I had Macallan 12 sherry, and boy was I hooked. It's such a mellow yet delicious spirit. I'd recommend it for anyone looking to get into the scotch world for under 100 dollars.
@@danboom101 laphroaig was my first scotch, had it neat. It was an experience. Told my wife I don't hate it, but not sure I'd buy it for myself. I've thought about it frequently, and craved it on those nights where I'm just not in the mood for sweet bourbons.
Just bought a bottle of the Bunnah 12 yesterday. My first scotch and def getting a little peat/smoke, but it is so different and has me coming back for more..
I’m new to bourbon. I’ve always been a scotch guy. Bought my first bottle of scotch when I was 21 and spoke against bourbon passionately up until about 6 weeks ago. I’m 27 now and can’t get enough of either. Glad I’ve diversified into bourbons now!
For my first bottle of Scotch, I bought the Ardbeg Wee Beastie a few days ago and I’m loving it. Note that I also happen to have a Workhorse Pits 1975t offset smoker. The Wee Beastie offers up a different kind of smoke, but it’s still excellent and I’ve found that it pairs really well with my pulled pork. Just skip the bbq sauce.
Jason, great lineup and Macallan is what got us started on our Scotch journey. And agree Bunny 12 is one of the best. Also love the Glendronach 12 and especially the 15. Glad so many are under $60. CHEERS!!
Thanks Jason for helping us diversify! Why can’t I ever walk out of the liquor store with anything but BOURBON?? Now I have a list to work off of 😁 Cheers 🥃
my wife isn't a whiskey or whisky drinker at all. Yet even she absolutely can't get enough of Balvinie Caribbean cask. She happens to love rum so there you go. But it is good stuff
Great picks. A few I've tried. A few are on my short list to try. LOVE the Ardbeg 10. The nose gets me. Salty, briny, smoky.... reminds me of a campfire near the ocean. Having grown up on Long Island, NY and spent a lot of time at the shore, this hits home for me.
I was burned out on bourbon from over-indulging when I was much younger so I came back to bourbon after years of scotch drinking. I still love scotch and have at least 25-30 different bottles but bourbon is now climbing back into the ranks. You made some great calls for introducing bourbon drinkers to scotch. Macallan, Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban and Balvenie are great gateways. Other expressions by Glenmorangie, particularly the Original and Lasanta are easy to get into as is Balvenie Caribbean cask. My particular favorite these days is Port Charlotte Islay Barley Heavily Peated. OMG! Bacon, smoke, ocean salt and a little oil on the pallet. It isn't for the faint of heart, but I've introduced to plenty of people who appreciate it after just a few sips. My absolute goto for years has been Oban. I have several bottles in reserve just to be sure I don't run out.A touch of peat but nothing like most Islays. The tariffs haven't helped its affordability, but it is worth every penny. Another great review! I am so happy I found your channel. Mash and Drum is my Goto whiskey channel. I'll have to search, but have you done a rum video yet? Keep it up!
Thanks Matt! Appreciate you reaching out. I am a huge Bruichladdie fan and the Islay Barley, Port Charlotte's and Octomores have been some of my favorite expressions along with Bunnahbhain. Cheers and glad your enjoying the channel!
That was a pretty good review of options. No arguments from me. Generally, I think of scotch as having two major profiles. On one end is scotch with with lots of sherry (Macallan 12yo and Aberlour A'Bunadh are both great examples) on the other end is scotch with a lot of peat flavor (Ardbeg 10yo, Laphroaig 10yo, and Lagavulin 16yo are great examples). In between these two extremes is scotch without much sherry or peat where the barley is the star (Glenmorangie, Glenfiddich, and Glenlivet are great examples). Then there is something with mid-levels of sherry flavor (Balvenie DoubleWood 12yo, Dalmore 12yo) and mid-level peat (Highland Park 12yo for a high-mid level, Dalwhinnie 15yo for a hint, and Springbank 10yo for just perfect).
David Ivey Thanks for the breakdown of the range. Since I like Glenfiddich and Rum in general I think my next pick will be the Glenlivet Caribbean Reserve seems to have a tasting profile that I would enjoy. Then after that Balvenie Doublewood 12 looks interesting as I like the sherry flavor profile. Super helpful David thanks for that!
You're already my favourite history teacher, now you're teaching geography too (ocean currents). Very impressive 👏. Great and diverse list. I would throw in Glenmo 10 and Deanston virgin oak. Cheers Jason 🥃
MaCallan 12, Glenfiddach, are 2 of my favorites. First scotch I tried was Monkey Shoulder. I always keep a bottle of it on the bar, for a entry level scotch it is delicious.
I have made Bunnehabhian "My" Scotch because it is so wonderfully buttery and long-finish delicious. Most who see "Islay" and think "Oh, its one of those that taste like a doctor's ashtray" have to get past that and try it and they, too, will be converts. It is quite simply heaven. BTW, while the "ordinary" Glenmorangie is just okay, I find their wood-finished variants a lot of fun for special occasions.
Great video! I'm very happy I found your channel. I've had the GlenFiddich 14 and its wonderful. I'm heading out to get the GlenMorangie today! My friends and I are wanting to move to scotch as the bourbon game has gotten ridiculous. Sláinte.
Had tried a few scotches before (Glenlivet, glenfiddich 12 &Monkey shoulder) and didn't care for any of them. drinkable but meh.. So last week I bought Ardbeg 10 and actually really enjoyed it. Definitely get that meaty bacon on the nose. So I came back to this video to see what all you'd recommend for bourbon drinkers and looks like I got a few things to try and pick up.
Early on I was given a mini set of 12, 18 and 21 Glenfiddich and I remember absolutely loving the 21. It was full of flavor and so smooth. Granted I was very new to drinking as I had just turned 21 or 22. That got me curious about spirits and now I am trying out flaviar and have a bottle of Elijah Craig Small Batch (based on several recommends) and Knappauge Castle 12 (based on flaviar reviews) on the way. I really want to pick up the Glenfiddich 14 and when I find a bottle of Glenfiddich 21 I will pick that up as well :) Next quarter I will get the Smokey peaty sampler to try some northern scotches.
It was the Macallen that opened the door for me, and it's Laphraig and Ardbeg that threatens to shut it again, lol. Fortunately, I've discovered most of the ones you talk about here, as well as Auchenteshan Three Wood.
At a recent food festival where the Glenmorangie team had a tasting lineup, I went up to the rep and said “I’m a bourbon drinker that doesn’t like scotch, change my mind!” He poured me a glass of the Quinta Ruban 14-yr and you know what...it was good!
I recently found your channel, so I’m seeing this a year later. As a Canadian, I was introduced to single malt long before I was introduced to bourbon. Glenmorangie finished in port pipes was my first foray into this spirit. Started drinking bourbon almost by accident, and now love both! Thanks for giving me a better understanding of what I’m tasting with the two.
Jason!!!! I am standing up in front of my computer doing a slow clap! FANTASTIC video and an excellent grouping of scotch whisky for your bourbonites to try! Great explanations, too! I might add Old Pulteney 12 for a typical Highland and Talisker 10 for a bit more brine. Seriously great job! I'm putting a link to this in the scotch thread on my bourbon society's discord channel. Slainte Y'all!
I'm a Bourbon drinker and have been thinking about taking the next step. Scotch will be that step. This video really helps!! Plus I have had my eye on the Arbeg 10 for about a year now.
Great video topic Jason. Aberlour A'bunadh is the one took me from a Bourbon only drinker completely down the malt whisky rabbit hole. I followed up with Deanston 12 and there was no looking back. Just recently started opening up a Bourbon after not having any for quite some time. Have a small stash of cask strength Bourbon from before I switched. Cheers
Spot-on list and descriptions of introductory essential Scotches, Jason! All are approachable and delicious. The only one I've yet to try and will soon is the Ardbeg Ten😊 Cheers brother!
Great picks. That aberlour was the first scotch I could get into, and my grandfather was born in Scotland - I was the black sheep for so long! Another very approachable scotch is Glendronach 12...give it a try.
Buffalo trace got me into whiskey as a whole. And I wanted to know what scotch I should try so I found an article where they said the best scotch for them was The Balvenie Portwood 21, but that the entry level to it was the Balvenie Doublewood. So I picked that up the next time I went to total wine and it got me into scotch.
Love the list! You make very valid points. I think a lot of first time whisky drinkers (bourbon, scotch, or otherwise) will try something off the bottom shelf and base their entire opinion of whisky on that experience. You really need to move up one price level to get to know what the spirit has to offer. Scotch has so many diverse flavour profiles it can create pure magic in a glass. Definitely the most complex, educational, and enjoyable forms of whisky in my opinion.
Thats why I wanted to make this video..I thought with so much diverse flavors in scotch, theres a lot for new scotch drinker or bourbon drinker to try. These are the scotches that really got me built up into really loving scotch. Cheers!
Started my scotch journey with Johnnie Walker Red, then JW Black, and now I've gotten into single malts with the Balvenie DW 12. Been eyeing the Macallan 12 for my next buy. Honestly, I haven't really had a bad one yet. Loving it so far! Great video!
I actually started my whiskey journey with single malt Scotch, but was converted to Bourbon by a friend who happened to be a brand ambassador. After my conversion, it's rare that I drink Scotch now, but when I do I find that Talisker has a depth of flavor similar to a Bourbon for around$60 and that Macallan 18 is a great option when I want to go a bit upscale. Great video.
Nice list, especially the Bunna 12 is real gold. I must say, that (being a scotch drinker) I don't know half of the presented whiskies, although i'm familiar with the brands. It's quite ironic, that - as a european - you have to go to the US to taste a decent presentation of many of the major brand scotches. You get them at 43% abv, you lucky bastards, while we have to settle for 40%. For example Glenmorangie and Balvenie do nothing for me, but then I'm fully aware that we're not sipping the same juice. Also one word on peat and beginners: If you are introducing someone to scotch, make sure that you let them taste one heavily peated expression. Peat is just another flavor, after all and many beginners fall in love with it instantly. Often, those have to work their way to more subtle whiskies over time. So you can totally put people off whiskies, by letting them try only "accessible" stuff, when they would have needed a good dose of peat to become converts. That's why I really applaud you for adding the Ardbeg 10 to your list! Slàinte mhath!
On the other hand, Laphroaig sent me running away from heavily peated scotch as far and fast as I could. It took me awhile to reverse course and slowly tack my way back.
Great video and yes converting people to scotch these help a lot. I also like to use Glen Rothes Bourbon Barrel Reserve, Cardu 12, and Singleton 12 as a great intro to scotch for Bourbon drinkers as well. Great examples picture of all the barrel sizes as well. Cheers.
A few years back I started buying Glenrothes Scotch at my local liquor store until they ran out and for whatever reason they stopped. I asked about it and then forgot about it. I might have to ask again.
I got into bourbon and scotch at the same exact time...and Bunna 12 was my very first scotch, still one of my favorites (from this list Ardbeg and the Abunadh are also fantastic). Personally I always recommend to bourbon drinkers who want to get into scotch to try Glen Garioch 12yr (especially if they enjoy rye or high rye bourbon like WT 101 or Rarebreed). This is a great dessert malt with some heat and spice. Always reminds me of a proper Austrian apple strudel with raisins, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanille rum sauce, a touch of hot pepper and some barn hayloft funk. The Glen Garioch 15yr Sherry Cask Strength is amazing...but more demanding. As someone who got into both on the same day, I've yet to find a better rye/bourbon to scotch bridge. Cheers!
perfect timing. I was just beginning to investigate the best way to venture into the scotch world. Thanks for your interesting and informative presentations.
I love my high proof Bourbons, like the barrel proof Elijah Craig and Booker being among my favorites but when I dipped my toes in to Scotch, I loved the Lagavulan 16 but I also loved the lighter easier drinking Scotches and especially Japanese Whiskeys like Hibiki! Also I highly recommend to any 1 reading this the Dewar's Double Double (I know its not single malt its blend lol) 21 years, 27 years and 32 year (all finished in different barrels) its amazing, tasty, fruity and on the lighter side.
Like 100+ proof whiskeys, so now and then switch for a more complex flavor. Slowly finished a bottle of Ardbeg. So special! Good reviews Thanks. I think an Aberlour may be next?
Great presentation! Loved the short history along with the suggestions. I am definitely Scotch-curious and have listed Spice Tree along with Bunnahabhain as ones to try. Cheers!
Great review, Jason. I learned a few things watching this. The Balvenie 12 DW is a great suggestion for a bourbon lovers looking to try a single malt. Cheers man.
Really enjoying this video! I totally agree with Glenfiddich 14 and Macallan 12 double oak! But the most bourbony scotch I've ever had was Glen Grant 15! 15yrs in exbourbon barrels! Cheers
Love this episode. I started diving into scotch within the last few months. I was an Islay fan before but didn’t dabble in scotch beyond because the stuff it tried wasn’t amazing. The one that really pulled me in was Deanston 10 yr px finish. Now I’m into Glendronach 15/18, arberlour a’bunahd, glenfarcas 105, springbank 12 CS.
This is so spot on. As a scotch drinker venturing into bourbon you hit the best of the best scotches. I’m not an Islay fan per se as with an Ardbeg 10, Bunnahabhain 12 is my goto. While I’ve enjoyed your other selections as well the B12 is the best of all worlds without the peat bomb. Another great M&D lesson. 👍
I consider myself first and foremost a scotch drinker, who also enjoys bourbon. My favorite scotches are Balvenie and Glenmorangie, but I have often enjoyed the Mac 12 and I've had the Glenfiddich 14 a few times. All are excellent. So, now you have me interested in the Bunnhabhain and I might even give the Ardbeg a try. I don't enjoy a heavily peated scotch, but I am finding I have a taste for a light to medium peated scotch. I recommend giving Shackleton's Blended Scotch a try. It's an adventure in a bottle. For a very inexpensive single malt scotch, the Tomatin 12 (at under $40) is a bargain. Another very good, yet inexpensive single malt (or it used to be inexpensive, I haven't seen it in awhile) Craigellachie 13. Thanks for the advice. I'm looking forward to my next shopping trip. FWIW, my favorite bourbons are Buffalo Trace / Eagle Rare, and Jeffersons Small Batch. I've yet to have a glass of the legendary Pappy VanWinkle. It's a bucket list type thing I may never get checked off. The chance of ever finding a unicorn or a leprechaun is pretty small. I have, however, had JWalker Blue several times, and while $200+ for a bottle of blended scotch is plain silly, see if you can get someone to buy you a bottle. It is excellent.
Had to watch this one again as I'm starting to wind down bourbon month- I plan on getting back into Scotch. Got the Bunnahabhain 12 already on a recommendation from a stranger in the whiskey aisle (yes, really). Have yet to crack it, but I'm relieved to know it was a good choice after all! Cheers, man.
Time stamps:
Glenfiddich 14 - 03:55
Compass Box Spice Tree - 04:40
Macallan 12 Sherry Oak - 05:56
Aberlour Abunadh - 06:40
Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban 14 - 07:34
Balvenie 12 Double Wood - 08:25
Bunnahabhain 12 - 09:21
Ardbeg 10 - 10:20
Thank you for this!
Balvenie doublewood is the scotch that brought me into the world of fine whiskies. Definitely a classic.
Enjoyed the video. My Dad’s Scot, and you have to understand Scotland is not an easy landscape. It’s stunningly beautiful but just as harsh and unforgiving. And single malts reflect that 100%. You can start with the Glen ( Glenfidich) and move to a Macallan 18 or so, but not until you get to the Laphroaig 10, which is a full blast of whale piss are you starting to appreciate all that is Scotland. Then you slide into the Laphroaig triple wood and the heavens open and the sun shines on your face and off the salt spray from the waves and you smile. Then you journey a little further down the isle and land on the Ardbeg and indulge in the Uigeadail and everything seems right with the world and the emerald green expanse in front of you reflects into the bottom of your soul and warms you to your toes. And upon the final journey down the isle you end up at Lagavulin and at first taste of the 16 you know there is a God. And when you pour a dram of the Distillers Edition you know you’ve seen the face of God and smiled. And all the glory of Scotland, it’s pride and history and traditions make sense and you can savor the traditional Burn’s Supper with many large drams of the Distiller’s perfection.
Tried Ardbeg for the first time last weekend. It tasted like I was sitting next to a bonfire at the beach and somebody shaved their balls, threw the hair into the fire, then the smoke from the fire blew directly into my mouth.
I had ardbeg and it didn't taste like that 🤣
😆
Lmfao
Awesome ain't it?! I love Ardbeg but never would have made the analogy you did. Scotch is an acquired taste and I've acquired it. I say this while drinking Old Grand Dad 100 proof. Quite a difference to say the least.
Tastes like mud, iodine and bandaids to me.
Scotch is my first love and not only have I tried but own all the ones on the list. First let me say you’re 100% right about the Aberlour A’Bunadh (one of my favorite) and Bunnahabhain. If you ever get a chance to buy or try the Bunnahabhain 18 do it. It’s worth it. Second for a list of showing someone who normally doesn’t drink single malt what they have to offer you’re spot on. Only thing I might change is the Macallan or GlenDronach 12 and possibly add something from Campbeltown. As always amazing job and facts. Slainte 🥃
Lagavulin 16!! I started with bourbon, going up in proof with 1920, Stagg Jr., ECBP. I always wanted to try scotch, thought I would love sherry but when I tried Lagavulin 16 at a party it blew my mind. Been really into Peat since. (Lagavulin 16, Ardbeg 10, Port Charlotte)
Give Ardbeg Corryvreckan and Laphroaig Lore a try.
Agree on both of those. Also almost any .3 of the Octomore range if you ever get a chance.
@@travisloewen6191 Amen!
I recently found Finlaggen for under £20 per bottle, it's an Islay Malt and I was shocked at the quality at this price point...
@@ezecommerce7521 Lagavulin 16 changed my life. Try Compass Box Peat Monster and Compass Box #2
I've had the Glenmorangie, the Balvenie, the Bunnahabhain, and the Ardbeg and liked them all, but I put the Glenmorangie at the top of those. I think that bourbon drinkers would also like the Balvenie Sweet Toast of American Oak, it's excellent. I also love Edradour 10yo.
Thank you for this I have spent most of 2020 as a bourbon junkie but am looking to explore. I will definitely come back to this video in 2021 as I begin to step out into Scotch.
Glenmorangie first, then Glenlivet, then Lagavulin 16...
Now I drink everything....
I really hated Scotch growing up but it seems my tastes have changed as I've gotten older. I bought my 1st bottle of Scotch about a month ago. Some Aberfeldy Highland Single Malt that my brother in law convinced me to try. Really good stuff. Bought my second bottle about a week ago, some Aberlour and wow, that's some great stuff too, as you mentioned in this video! I recommend both to anyone who loves bourbon like me. You will be pleasantly surprised at how good those are.
Great video. Been trying to find some scotches I would like (never really been a fan) so I took your advice and I got the Bunna 12 and I'm blow away by how good this stuff is. At like $50 this is going to put a major dent in my future bourbon purchases...Got the Quinta Ruban in my bar to try next!
Great list! I'm a Bourbon drinker and I agree with your picks except for the Ardbeg. Peated whiskys just doesn't get along well with my palate. I would add Glenlivet 18 yr old (Speyside), and Deanston 12 yr old ( Highland) for Bourbon drinkers to try.
Adding the Tomatin 12 year bourbon and sherry casks to your list. Originally visited the distillery while on vacation in Scotland. Found it in Portland OR for less than $40. Enjoy.
I’ve been a single malt guy for years. But until the last 5 years or so just slowly fell in love with Bourbon. That being said, I will always keep a bottle of The Dalmore on the shelf & still reach for it quite frequently. Most of my bourbon friends also enjoy it as well. Im curious about the scotch being barreled in the used charred oak barrels. 2 best worlds collide!
Thanks for the recommendations. I bought the Glenmorangie 14 and boy was I pleasantly surprised!
As a Brit who loves whisky and bourbon I found this interesting... For bourbon drinkers I’d recommend the Glengoynes (15, 18 and 21 especially) and anything by Glenfarclas.
I’d also recommend checking out Murray McDavid as an independent bottler, they make some cracking stuff, really know their stuff!
For anyone in the US the BEST investment you could make is (once the Covid nonsense is over) is get a flight here and attend a festival. They happen in most major cities, I live near Birmingham and we have 2 great ones, one in March and one in September. You can try so much new stuff and learn from the distilleries/distributors more about the product.
I know it’s weird but Ardbeg 10 is the whiskey that made me love whiskey and eventually got me into bourbon.
Not weird at all!
Smells like paint, tastes like bacon.....excellent
Excellent for a bloody cold Aberta Winter night .
Have to say you’re spot on with the list. I have one of each and they are excellent. Give the Kilkerran 8 Cask Strength and a particular favorite, Port Charlotte Islay Barley...cheers.
Same here.
Balvenie Caribbean cask is my go to. Has strong banana influence. It's tropical. Delicious taste
Great job Jason! Couple of suggestions: Don Draper drank Canadian Club, not Scotch. I would also recommend GlenDronach 12 over Macallan 12. Macallan's cut and barrel quality has really fallen off.
Christopher Hitchens talking about Johnnie Walker Black Label on UA-cam videos got me to try it, Red and Double Black and I fell in love with Scotch and with Whiskey much more in general.
Epic video! I'm a Scotch lover who came to Bourbon second and now can't' get enough. It' all about the Islay Scotches and Lagavulin 16 was the scotch that changed my life. If you like peated scotch give Compass Box Peat Monster a try. Cheers!
Like your picks, would add Glendronach 12, Craigellachie 13, Bruichladdich Classic Laddie, Port Charlotte 10, Arran 10, and Highland Park 12
Bunnahabhain 12 is my favorite scotch by far, and also the one that got me into scotches. You earned a subscriber with that review 🔥
Damn, Jason... That's a lot of heavy hitters here. Great list. That A'Bunadh is really special.
You featured my favourite daily, Glenmorangie 14 Quinta Ruban... I would highly recommend this as a cross over for Bourbon drinkers...
When transferring from bourbon to scotch, I had 2 different ones. My first taste of scotch was Laphroig, and it almost made me quit immediately. Then I had Macallan 12 sherry, and boy was I hooked. It's such a mellow yet delicious spirit. I'd recommend it for anyone looking to get into the scotch world for under 100 dollars.
@No laphroig is one of the smokiest, medicinal tasting scotches out there. I can appreciate it now, but when just starting it was just far too much.
@@danboom101 laphroaig was my first scotch, had it neat. It was an experience. Told my wife I don't hate it, but not sure I'd buy it for myself. I've thought about it frequently, and craved it on those nights where I'm just not in the mood for sweet bourbons.
Awesome list my favorite is Johnny Walker 18 years and Dalmore King Alexander 25 year is King of Scotch IMO
Just bought a bottle of the Bunnah 12 yesterday. My first scotch and def getting a little peat/smoke, but it is so different and has me coming back for more..
All great suggestions! Laphroaig 10 was my gateway, but I also always recommend the Bunnahabhain 12. You can’t go wrong with it. Cheers!
Glenfiddich was my scotch gateway. Laphroaig was my peaty. Both still have a place on my shelf.
Nice info, I like the Aberlour and Balvenie!
I’m new to bourbon. I’ve always been a scotch guy. Bought my first bottle of scotch when I was 21 and spoke against bourbon passionately up until about 6 weeks ago. I’m 27 now and can’t get enough of either. Glad I’ve diversified into bourbons now!
For my first bottle of Scotch, I bought the Ardbeg Wee Beastie a few days ago and I’m loving it. Note that I also happen to have a Workhorse Pits 1975t offset smoker. The Wee Beastie offers up a different kind of smoke, but it’s still excellent and I’ve found that it pairs really well with my pulled pork. Just skip the bbq sauce.
Good choice with the Abunadh. Batch 64 is a good one.🤙
Love seeing all the Smoke Wagon on the shelf
I found highland park to be a pretty good single malt that I enjoy. And I am mainly a bourbon drinker. Their cask strength release number 3 is great.
Jason, great lineup and Macallan is what got us started on our Scotch journey. And agree Bunny 12 is one of the best. Also love the Glendronach 12 and especially the 15. Glad so many are under $60. CHEERS!!
Thanks DJ!
Thanks Jason for helping us diversify! Why can’t I ever walk out of the liquor store with anything but BOURBON?? Now I have a list to work off of 😁
Cheers 🥃
Very informative, thank you
My first scotches were your first 2... BUT my Glenmorangie was a 10, didn't try MacAllan till a couple months ago.... great vid. Solid picks.....
my wife isn't a whiskey or whisky drinker at all. Yet even she absolutely can't get enough of Balvinie Caribbean cask. She happens to love rum so there you go. But it is good stuff
Great picks. A few I've tried. A few are on my short list to try. LOVE the Ardbeg 10. The nose gets me. Salty, briny, smoky.... reminds me of a campfire near the ocean. Having grown up on Long Island, NY and spent a lot of time at the shore, this hits home for me.
I love the ocean note even more with the Laphroaig 10.
I was burned out on bourbon from over-indulging when I was much younger so I came back to bourbon after years of scotch drinking. I still love scotch and have at least 25-30 different bottles but bourbon is now climbing back into the ranks.
You made some great calls for introducing bourbon drinkers to scotch. Macallan, Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban and Balvenie are great gateways. Other expressions by Glenmorangie, particularly the Original and Lasanta are easy to get into as is Balvenie Caribbean cask.
My particular favorite these days is Port Charlotte Islay Barley Heavily Peated. OMG! Bacon, smoke, ocean salt and a little oil on the pallet. It isn't for the faint of heart, but I've introduced to plenty of people who appreciate it after just a few sips.
My absolute goto for years has been Oban. I have several bottles in reserve just to be sure I don't run out.A touch of peat but nothing like most Islays. The tariffs haven't helped its affordability, but it is worth every penny.
Another great review! I am so happy I found your channel. Mash and Drum is my Goto whiskey channel. I'll have to search, but have you done a rum video yet? Keep it up!
Thanks Matt! Appreciate you reaching out. I am a huge Bruichladdie fan and the Islay Barley, Port Charlotte's and Octomores have been some of my favorite expressions along with Bunnahbhain. Cheers and glad your enjoying the channel!
That was a pretty good review of options. No arguments from me.
Generally, I think of scotch as having two major profiles. On one end is scotch with with lots of sherry (Macallan 12yo and Aberlour A'Bunadh are both great examples) on the other end is scotch with a lot of peat flavor (Ardbeg 10yo, Laphroaig 10yo, and Lagavulin 16yo are great examples). In between these two extremes is scotch without much sherry or peat where the barley is the star (Glenmorangie, Glenfiddich, and Glenlivet are great examples). Then there is something with mid-levels of sherry flavor (Balvenie DoubleWood 12yo, Dalmore 12yo) and mid-level peat (Highland Park 12yo for a high-mid level, Dalwhinnie 15yo for a hint, and Springbank 10yo for just perfect).
David Ivey Thanks for the breakdown of the range. Since I like Glenfiddich and Rum in general I think my next pick will be the Glenlivet Caribbean Reserve seems to have a tasting profile that I would enjoy. Then after that Balvenie Doublewood 12 looks interesting as I like the sherry flavor profile. Super helpful David thanks for that!
Dude, thanks for this breakdown. Im new to Scotch and am hesitant because I dont enjoy peat.
You're already my favourite history teacher, now you're teaching geography too (ocean currents). Very impressive 👏. Great and diverse list. I would throw in Glenmo 10 and Deanston virgin oak. Cheers Jason 🥃
Deanston virgin oak is a great add! Cheers.
I just bought Deanston Virgin Oak and an absolutely outstanding value at $30.
MaCallan 12, Glenfiddach, are 2 of my favorites. First scotch I tried was Monkey Shoulder. I always keep a bottle of it on the bar, for a entry level scotch it is delicious.
Nice man! Monkey Shoulder is a good gateway as well!
I love the Islay scotches, myself. The Laphroaig Triplewood is my go-to.
So many good scotches that makes difficult to choose, heavy scotch drinker here! What about bourbon options for the scotch drinker? Great video.
I'm working on that one. Cheers! Thanks for watching 😊
Woodford reserve double oak. Very much like Bunnahabain 12 but bourbon.
Talisker, Lagavulin, and Springbank are all fantastic
Aberlour A'Bunadh is one of my favorites. The first time I tried it I thought it was a finished bourbon.
I have made Bunnehabhian "My" Scotch because it is so wonderfully buttery and long-finish delicious. Most who see "Islay" and think "Oh, its one of those that taste like a doctor's ashtray" have to get past that and try it and they, too, will be converts. It is quite simply heaven. BTW, while the "ordinary" Glenmorangie is just okay, I find their wood-finished variants a lot of fun for special occasions.
Great video. To say some distillers chill filter and add coloring is a major understatement.
true story!
Great video! I'm very happy I found your channel. I've had the GlenFiddich 14 and its wonderful. I'm heading out to get the GlenMorangie today! My friends and I are wanting to move to scotch as the bourbon game has gotten ridiculous. Sláinte.
Had tried a few scotches before (Glenlivet, glenfiddich 12 &Monkey shoulder) and didn't care for any of them. drinkable but meh.. So last week I bought Ardbeg 10 and actually really enjoyed it. Definitely get that meaty bacon on the nose. So I came back to this video to see what all you'd recommend for bourbon drinkers and looks like I got a few things to try and pick up.
Bourbon is my favorite but I may go pick up a bottle of that Quinta Ruban 14. Great video.
Early on I was given a mini set of 12, 18 and 21 Glenfiddich and I remember absolutely loving the 21. It was full of flavor and so smooth. Granted I was very new to drinking as I had just turned 21 or 22. That got me curious about spirits and now I am trying out flaviar and have a bottle of Elijah Craig Small Batch (based on several recommends) and Knappauge Castle 12 (based on flaviar reviews) on the way. I really want to pick up the Glenfiddich 14 and when I find a bottle of Glenfiddich 21 I will pick that up as well :) Next quarter I will get the Smokey peaty sampler to try some northern scotches.
It was the Macallen that opened the door for me, and it's Laphraig and Ardbeg that threatens to shut it again, lol. Fortunately, I've discovered most of the ones you talk about here, as well as Auchenteshan Three Wood.
You did good. Really accurate.
At a recent food festival where the Glenmorangie team had a tasting lineup, I went up to the rep and said “I’m a bourbon drinker that doesn’t like scotch, change my mind!” He poured me a glass of the Quinta Ruban 14-yr and you know what...it was good!
I've heard good things. And that it's very sweet.
I recently found your channel, so I’m seeing this a year later. As a Canadian, I was introduced to single malt long before I was introduced to bourbon. Glenmorangie finished in port pipes was my first foray into this spirit. Started drinking bourbon almost by accident, and now love both! Thanks for giving me a better understanding of what I’m tasting with the two.
Interesting list.. can't wait to get a bottle of Compass box Spice tree 😋🥃
Jason!!!! I am standing up in front of my computer doing a slow clap! FANTASTIC video and an excellent grouping of scotch whisky for your bourbonites to try! Great explanations, too! I might add Old Pulteney 12 for a typical Highland and Talisker 10 for a bit more brine. Seriously great job! I'm putting a link to this in the scotch thread on my bourbon society's discord channel. Slainte Y'all!
Thanks so much Lee! I've been working on this video for a while. Means alot from you! Thanks for sharing!
Subbed. Great video. Long time bourbon drinker, relatively new to scotch. Looking forward to exploring new flavors.
I'm a Bourbon drinker and have been thinking about taking the next step. Scotch will be that step. This video really helps!! Plus I have had my eye on the Arbeg 10 for about a year now.
Great video topic Jason. Aberlour A'bunadh is the one took me from a Bourbon only drinker completely down the malt whisky rabbit hole. I followed up with Deanston 12 and there was no looking back. Just recently started opening up a Bourbon after not having any for quite some time. Have a small stash of cask strength Bourbon from before I switched. Cheers
Spot-on list and descriptions of introductory essential Scotches, Jason! All are approachable and delicious. The only one I've yet to try and will soon is the Ardbeg Ten😊 Cheers brother!
Thanks Richie!!
Richie Z I’m sure you’ll love it. Give it some time in the bottle if it seems like a bit much at first. My bottle didn’t last long in my house. 🥃
Great review! Appreciated your response!
I tend to like smoky/peaty scotches best. Lagavulin and Talisker are my personal favorites. Thanks for a great episode. Slainte!
Cheers!
Great picks. That aberlour was the first scotch I could get into, and my grandfather was born in Scotland - I was the black sheep for so long! Another very approachable scotch is Glendronach 12...give it a try.
Buffalo trace got me into whiskey as a whole. And I wanted to know what scotch I should try so I found an article where they said the best scotch for them was The Balvenie Portwood 21, but that the entry level to it was the Balvenie Doublewood. So I picked that up the next time I went to total wine and it got me into scotch.
Love the list! You make very valid points. I think a lot of first time whisky drinkers (bourbon, scotch, or otherwise) will try something off the bottom shelf and base their entire opinion of whisky on that experience. You really need to move up one price level to get to know what the spirit has to offer. Scotch has so many diverse flavour profiles it can create pure magic in a glass. Definitely the most complex, educational, and enjoyable forms of whisky in my opinion.
Thats why I wanted to make this video..I thought with so much diverse flavors in scotch, theres a lot for new scotch drinker or bourbon drinker to try. These are the scotches that really got me built up into really loving scotch. Cheers!
Excellent choices
Love the Bunna 12. Got a sample bottle & I've been on the hunt. Too bad it's sold out around my area.
Started my scotch journey with Johnnie Walker Red, then JW Black, and now I've gotten into single malts with the Balvenie DW 12. Been eyeing the Macallan 12 for my next buy. Honestly, I haven't really had a bad one yet. Loving it so far! Great video!
I actually started my whiskey journey with single malt Scotch, but was converted to Bourbon by a friend who happened to be a brand ambassador. After my conversion, it's rare that I drink Scotch now, but when I do I find that Talisker has a depth of flavor similar to a Bourbon for around$60 and that Macallan 18 is a great option when I want to go a bit upscale. Great video.
Thanks for the great and detailed video. Really enjoyed this.Cheers!
Nice list, especially the Bunna 12 is real gold. I must say, that (being a scotch drinker) I don't know half of the presented whiskies, although i'm familiar with the brands. It's quite ironic, that - as a european - you have to go to the US to taste a decent presentation of many of the major brand scotches. You get them at 43% abv, you lucky bastards, while we have to settle for 40%. For example Glenmorangie and Balvenie do nothing for me, but then I'm fully aware that we're not sipping the same juice.
Also one word on peat and beginners: If you are introducing someone to scotch, make sure that you let them taste one heavily peated expression. Peat is just another flavor, after all and many beginners fall in love with it instantly. Often, those have to work their way to more subtle whiskies over time. So you can totally put people off whiskies, by letting them try only "accessible" stuff, when they would have needed a good dose of peat to become converts. That's why I really applaud you for adding the Ardbeg 10 to your list!
Slàinte mhath!
On the other hand, Laphroaig sent me running away from heavily peated scotch as far and fast as I could. It took me awhile to reverse course and slowly tack my way back.
That's why I prefer to pour Caol Ila 12 to introduce smoke to a newbie. Although to me Laphroaig was love at first sip. :)
A lot of great information. I cant agree more with the Ardbeg suggestion. Fantastic choice!!!
Great video and yes converting people to scotch these help a lot. I also like to use Glen Rothes Bourbon Barrel Reserve, Cardu 12, and Singleton 12 as a great intro to scotch for Bourbon drinkers as well. Great examples picture of all the barrel sizes as well. Cheers.
Thanks Matt! Means alot coming from you. Thanks for the add ins. Need to try those as well.
A few years back I started buying Glenrothes Scotch at my local liquor store until they ran out and for whatever reason they stopped. I asked about it and then forgot about it. I might have to ask again.
@@BruceLinderDPT good idea
I got into bourbon and scotch at the same exact time...and Bunna 12 was my very first scotch, still one of my favorites (from this list Ardbeg and the Abunadh are also fantastic). Personally I always recommend to bourbon drinkers who want to get into scotch to try Glen Garioch 12yr (especially if they enjoy rye or high rye bourbon like WT 101 or Rarebreed). This is a great dessert malt with some heat and spice. Always reminds me of a proper Austrian apple strudel with raisins, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanille rum sauce, a touch of hot pepper and some barn hayloft funk. The Glen Garioch 15yr Sherry Cask Strength is amazing...but more demanding. As someone who got into both on the same day, I've yet to find a better rye/bourbon to scotch bridge. Cheers!
perfect timing. I was just beginning to investigate the best way to venture into the scotch world. Thanks for your interesting and informative presentations.
I love my high proof Bourbons, like the barrel proof Elijah Craig and Booker being among my favorites but when I dipped my toes in to Scotch, I loved the Lagavulan 16 but I also loved the lighter easier drinking Scotches and especially Japanese Whiskeys like Hibiki! Also I highly recommend to any 1 reading this the Dewar's Double Double (I know its not single malt its blend lol) 21 years, 27 years and 32 year (all finished in different barrels) its amazing, tasty, fruity and on the lighter side.
Hibiki reminds me of the EW Single Barrel.
Like 100+ proof whiskeys, so now and then switch for a more complex flavor. Slowly finished a bottle of Ardbeg. So special! Good reviews Thanks. I think an Aberlour may be next?
Awesome basic and simple
I use Spice Tree, A'bunadh, and Quinta Ruban to introduce my bourbon friends to scotch, so I agree with your list wholeheartedly.
My brother always gave me crap for drinking scotch but suprisingly he liked the glengoyne 12
Highland Park Magnus, Glen Fiddich 14 bourbon cask and John Barr.
Great presentation! Loved the short history along with the suggestions. I am definitely Scotch-curious and have listed Spice Tree along with Bunnahabhain as ones to try. Cheers!
My transition from bourbon and rye to scotch started with Auchentoshan American Oak
You do such a great job. Thank you!
Great review, Jason. I learned a few things watching this. The Balvenie 12 DW is a great suggestion for a bourbon lovers looking to try a single malt. Cheers man.
Thanks Mike! Glad you liked it!
Thanks. I would add the Arran 10 yr old to this list
Really enjoying this video! I totally agree with Glenfiddich 14 and Macallan 12 double oak! But the most bourbony scotch I've ever had was Glen Grant 15! 15yrs in exbourbon barrels! Cheers
Love this episode. I started diving into scotch within the last few months. I was an Islay fan before but didn’t dabble in scotch beyond because the stuff it tried wasn’t amazing. The one that really pulled me in was Deanston 10 yr px finish. Now I’m into Glendronach 15/18, arberlour a’bunahd, glenfarcas 105, springbank 12 CS.
Nice!! I went down the same rabbit hole. lol. Cheers buddy!
The Mash and Drum which batch of arberlour did you try?
@@fucious70 this was 64 I believe.
The Mash and Drum perfect. That’s the one I’m been eyeballing. 65 is not as good from the reviews.
This is so spot on. As a scotch drinker venturing into bourbon you hit the best of the best scotches. I’m not an Islay fan per se as with an Ardbeg 10, Bunnahabhain 12 is my goto. While I’ve enjoyed your other selections as well the B12 is the best of all worlds without the peat bomb. Another great M&D lesson. 👍
I’ve narrowed it…Lol, Bunnahabhain 12, Spice Tree, or Glenfiddich 14. I’m leaning in that order! Thoughts gang?! 🤣🥃👍
I consider myself first and foremost a scotch drinker, who also enjoys bourbon. My favorite scotches are Balvenie and Glenmorangie, but I have often enjoyed the Mac 12 and I've had the Glenfiddich 14 a few times. All are excellent. So, now you have me interested in the Bunnhabhain and I might even give the Ardbeg a try. I don't enjoy a heavily peated scotch, but I am finding I have a taste for a light to medium peated scotch. I recommend giving Shackleton's Blended Scotch a try. It's an adventure in a bottle. For a very inexpensive single malt scotch, the Tomatin 12 (at under $40) is a bargain. Another very good, yet inexpensive single malt (or it used to be inexpensive, I haven't seen it in awhile) Craigellachie 13. Thanks for the advice. I'm looking forward to my next shopping trip.
FWIW, my favorite bourbons are Buffalo Trace / Eagle Rare, and Jeffersons Small Batch. I've yet to have a glass of the legendary Pappy VanWinkle. It's a bucket list type thing I may never get checked off. The chance of ever finding a unicorn or a leprechaun is pretty small. I have, however, had JWalker Blue several times, and while $200+ for a bottle of blended scotch is plain silly, see if you can get someone to buy you a bottle. It is excellent.
Had to watch this one again as I'm starting to wind down bourbon month- I plan on getting back into Scotch. Got the Bunnahabhain 12 already on a recommendation from a stranger in the whiskey aisle (yes, really). Have yet to crack it, but I'm relieved to know it was a good choice after all! Cheers, man.
Great video! Great choices
All of these are top flight choices...
I love bourbon, and i bought myself a bottle of Aberfeldy 12, i thought it was great