General • 11 November 2023
First step on the 100-dram whisky odyssey
Welcome, fellow whisky enthusiasts! Today marks the beginning of an exciting journey into the world of spirits, as I set out to explore and savor 100 different whiskies. Buckle up, because we're about to embark on a spirited adventure filled with rich flavors, unique aromas, and the stories behind each bottle.
Why 100 Whiskies?
The idea behind this quest is simple yet profound. In a world brimming with diverse whiskies, I've realised that there are countless gems waiting to be discovered. By tasting 100 different expressions, I aim to broaden my palate, deepen my appreciation for the artistry of distillers, and uncover hidden treasures that may have eluded me thus far.
The Chart: A Visual Chronicle of the Journey
To visually document this adventure, I've created a chart featuring 100 slots, each reserved for a unique whisky. Today, I'm thrilled to unveil the first entry on this chart: Aberlour 12 Year Old. A true Speyside classic (read more about my thoughts on this whisky here). It sets the tone for the adventure that lies ahead.
The Adventure Unfolds
As we progress through this tasting expedition, the chart will fill up with an array of whiskies, each bringing its own story and character to the table. I'll be sharing tasting notes, anecdotes, and perhaps a few surprises along the way. Whether you're a seasoned whisky connoisseur or a curious newcomer, I invite you to join me on this journey.
Get Involved!
Have a favorite whisky you think should be on the list? Have tips for tasting or recommendations for future selections? I'd love to hear from you! Drop your suggestions in the comments below, and let's make this exploration a collective and enriching experience.
As we raise our glasses to the first of many whiskies on this list, here's to the adventure, the stories, and the shared love for the water of life. Cheers!
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Fancy another dram?
Aberlour 12: the start of our whisky discovery journey
What better way to kick off this journey of rediscovery than with my everyday favourite? Since it replaced the 10 year old in 2020, Aberlour 12 has firmly established itself as one of the quintessential Speyside whiskies, and it holds a special place in my heart. Readily available and typically £30–40, it's an irresistible choice for connoisseurs and newcomers alike.
Highland Park 12 Year Old
Highland Park's reputation precedes it — Orkney's finest, distilling since 1798, the 12 often held up as a benchmark for balanced, lightly-peated, sherried Scotch. In the glass: gentle heather smoke, honey and dried fruit, smooth and easy-drinking, with a medium finish of oak and lingering smoke. Reputations are made to be tested, though — does it earn its billing?
Bunnahabhain 12 Year Old
There's something quietly rebellious about Bunnahabhain. While the rest of Islay shouts about peat, this remote distillery lets sherry and coastal character lead. The unpeated 12, their flagship, is rich and inviting: nutty dried fruit — raisins and figs — Christmas-cake spice and a whisper of coastal salt, all remarkably smooth at 46.3%. Proof Islay can do far more than peat bombs.