Newb Intro, And Suggestions Welcome!

[PourMeADram]

Hello! I am relatively new to the single malt world (seriously... I've been drinking whisky for a long time, just now got "serious" about it). I hope to learn quite a bit from you all, and for that I thank you in advance.

So far, I have tried the following:

Isle of Jura 10 year - Very much like. It's my go-to Scotch, as you can't beat the price for what you get...
The Balvenie 12 year
The Balvenie 14 year Caribbean Cask - I really like the flavor of this, but it gives me a headache... strange. Anybody else?
Glenlivet 15 French Oak Reserve

So far I like all of them, with a slight nod to the Glenlivet, and of course Jura (mostly bang for the buck).

Currently in stock (as of today), I have 2 new ones I haven't tried:

Macallan 12 year
Aberlour 12 year
(And I have Jura... of course)

What I would really like to do is get a good expression from each area. What suggestions would you make for a Newb that doesn't have the palette quite yet for a $200 bottle of Scotch?

Thanks in advance for what I learn from you all!

PourMeADram
(aka Brad)

[jcp21]

I'm far from an expert, only been serious about whisky for a little over a year but I just wanted to throw one scotch out there that I think is perfect for a newbie. Highland Park 12. Not expnsive at all (goes for around $50 in the Chicago area). It has a just a hint of smoke, a little sweetness and is very drinkable. It's my go-to scotch and everyone I've offered it to becomes a fan. Best of luck on your journey!

[michael]

Welcome to the Whisky.com Forum! I've upgraded your status. You can post freely now.

Try Ardbeg
Laphroaig
Springbank 15

[PourMeADram]

JCP and Michael Thank You for the suggestions! I had not considered Highland Park, but seems to be a HUGE favorite! Might have to sneak a bottle of it in this Christmas...

Michael, I was warned that Ardbeg was a "real man's" Scotch, so as a newb, I am a bit nervous. Also seems to be a bit hard to find in this area... I'll keep my eye out for it.

Speaking of Christmas Scotch... phone pic attached.

[Jojo]

Aha - here you are! Glad to see no IPhone info attached to your thread

I like your starter collection! Glenlivet 15 French Oak Reserve a great one and I have never gone wrong with a Balvenie. When do you plan on trying your Aberlour (is it the 12 year)? I really like that one too - so curious to see how you find it. If you do enjoy it and and if you eventually dare to go bold, then look into their A'bunadh.

I second the Highland Park suggestion. It is very inexpensive (I"m sure I paid less than $50 for it here in the US). Definitely has that hint of smoke along with the bit of sweetness. Very easy going Scotch. I also really enjoy Glenlivet 15 year (Solera), The Dalmore 15 and Laphroaig Quarter Cask to name a few.

Keep us posted on your Scotch adventures.

[PourMeADram]

Thank you for the suggestions! And Jojo, I promised no spamming, and I'm sticking to that promise!!

I ended up picking up Ardbeg Ten as well as Highland Park 12. I'm off of work for over a week, so I have a lot of time for tasting!

I did break into the Highland Park and liked it quite a bit. It was far more smoky than I have had, but I enjoyed it very much. Thanks again!