Which Malt Whisky is the right one
for me?
Naturally, there is no universal way to answer this question. Whoever had the chance to try different malts surely knows what he likes or at least can head into a certain direction.
Nevertheless, here are some recommendations.
Lowlands: Dry, light and smooth, for the most part slightly malty
The Whiskies from Auchentoshan are triple distilled. The “Three Wood” is a challenge for the connoisseur – as well as the Malts from Bladnoch. Whiskies from Glenkinchie or older malts from Rosebank do not overstrain the whisky novice.
Highlands: For the most part sweet, however very individual depending on origin
These malts are very diverse. Dalwhinnie, Edradour, Fettercairn as well as Oban or Glengoyne should be named. Concerning the "Northern Highlands", my recommendations are Dalmore, Glenmorangie, Balblair, and Pulteney.
Speyside: Sweet and fruity, perhaps lightly smoky
The “El Dorado” of the Malt Whisky production with renowned names like: Macallan, Balvenie, Aberlour, Mortlach, Glenfarclas, Strathisla, Longmorn, Glendronach, or Glenrothes. All of the above are worth a sin and are premium, honest malts.
Islands: Depending on origin with aroma of the sea, mostly delicately sweet
Of course Talisker, Highland Park, Scapa, Jura, and most recently Arran. Here, I would also like to mention Springbank (Campbeltown) there.
Islay: Oily, peaty and very smoky, mostly tough
Whoever prefers the less intensive taste should stick to malts from Bunnahabhain or Bruichladdich. Whoever wants to enjoy the genuine Islay-taste should give a chance to Bowmore or Lagavulin. Whoever wants to get the real buzz should try Laphroaig, Caol Ila, or Ardbeg.
Even the toothbrush at the morning after will have no chance...
My favourites: Highland Park 12/18/21/25; The Macallan 18/25, Longmorn 16/25/31/34; Talisker 18/20/25/30; Mortlach 15/21/31; Ardbeg 17/Renaissance/Lord of the Isles; Balblair 38;Bunnahabhain 18/34; Caol Ila 25; The Glenlivet Naddura; Lagavulin 25; Linkwood 31; Tobermory 32; Tomintoul 34/37; Port Ellen (all fillings)
