Where to start with single malt?

[Alderton]

New on the forums so hello everyone. :)

Now, whisky is my drink of choice but I'm somewhat of a newbie when it comes to single malt and have not had the pleasure of sampling many brands.

Jack Daniels has been my drink of choice up until now and I'd like to treat myself to a good bottle of single malt. What I'm really looking for is something with a smoky, fruity taste and am also a big fan of vanilla, however I'm spoilt for choice as far as brands go and have little whisky experience apart from good ol' Jack.

So, based on what I'm looking for could anyone give any recommendations?

Thanks.

[Legion]

Welcome aboard, Alderton.

As different people get differnet flavors and aromas from the same drams, the only way to know for sure what you might like is to try 'em. As I noted in another thread, some of the more approachable single malts from Scotland include Glenmorangie Original, Glenfiddich 12, and Auchentoshan 12, and these are good introductions. Toward the richer side are such greats as Springbank 10, Macallan 12, and Highland Park 12. These remain rather approachable for someone starting to explore single malts, and are renowned by single malt Scotch whisky enthusiasts while not breaking the bank. If I had to make a guess as to which you might like the best, I would go with the Springbank.

Ireland makes a few excellent single malts as well; Knappogue Castle and Tyrconnell are among my favorites.

Good luck, and let us know what you come to like!

[karpems]

What is your price range?

[Goodfella]

I think Ardmore traditional cask is a good intro into single malts. I think it has a clear "sample" of all the different flavors of scotch. It does not rate very high in "points", but I have always thought it is a very well balanced scotch, at a affordable price.

P.S. I also agree with the Springbank recommendation.

[Dale]

The brands mentioned are widely available and pretty standard. Springbank and Highland Park are notable exceptions in superior quality, however. A couple other lighter, fruity sweeter drams might include Strathisla and Deanston, though they're not smoky at all. Another along the Springbank and Highland Park vein is Benromach 10.

For an ex-Jack drinker, you'll never go back to Bourbon (unless forced to do so at gunpoint) once you get into some of this single malts. That said, I still drink Bourbon - when there's no other choice.

[jwise]

I can still enjoy a good bourbon: Pappy, Bookers, Buffalo Trace....

Where to start? A friend's house who has a bunch, or the bar. Try what they have. Ask for tastes, as the bartender will probably oblige your request.

Once you have tasted several, give us a shout and tell us what you thought.

[jwise]

Edradour 10yr. It just might be your perfect single malt. If you need more smoke, get a bottle of Bunnahabhain 12yr.