Whisky for a beginner

Sleeve · 4 Dec 2012 at 11:36

Always been a fan of Jack Daniels, however not really ventured outside of that.

I've only ever drank it with Coke too.

What other whisky's would be suggested for someone looking to sample a few delights, budget of around £20-£25? Something which isn't going to burn my throat after a sip.

Sleeve · 4 Dec 2012 at 11:38

For some reason I'm drawn towards Monkey Shoulder. a lot of people seem to rate it. i think what interests me the most is the cork like lid, lol.

SpaghettiOs · 4 Dec 2012 at 11:48

You're actually talking about two very different types of drink here. Jack Daniel's brands itself as whiskey but is actually far more similar to bourbon. Monkey Shoulder is a blended mix of three different Single Malt Scotch Whiskies.

You're really only looking at blends in that price range, but I've no idea what to recommend unfortunately.

Sleeve · 4 Dec 2012 at 11:56

SpaghettiOs said:
You're actually talking about two very different types of drink here. Jack Daniel's brands itself as whiskey but is actually far more similar to bourbon. Monkey Shoulder is a blended mix of three different Single Malt Scotch Whiskies.

You're really only looking at blends in that price range, but I've no idea what to recommend unfortunately.

Wish I understood the difference, lol. Is bourbon not a type of whiskey?

Ahleckz · 4 Dec 2012 at 11:59

As Spaghetti says, bourbon (JD) and whisky (Monkey Shoulder) are very different drinks. Are you looking to keep the sweetness, vanillaness of bourbon or are you looking to move into the harsher (but more exciting) world of whisky?

The best bourbon you'll get in a supermarket is Woodford Reserve, which is around £25.

If you want to move onto whisky, and I suggest that you do, then buy a bottle of Balvenie Doublewood or Macallan 10. Both great starter whiskies and should be found for around £25 in supermarkets.

Sleeve · 4 Dec 2012 at 12:00

Ahleckz said:
As Spaghetti says, bourbon (JD) and whisky (Monkey Shoulder) are very different drinks. Are you looking to keep the sweetness, vanillaness of bourbon or are you looking to move into the harsher (but more exciting) world of whisky?

The best bourbon you'll get in a supermarket is Woodford Reserve, which is around £25.

If you want to move onto whisky, and I suggest that you do, then buy a bottle of Balvenie Doublewood or Macallan 10. Both great starter whiskies and should be found for around £25 in supermarkets.

Im not too sure to be honest. As I say I've only ever drank JD with coke, so unsure as to the actual taste of it on its own. I would like to invest some time into exploring the world of whiskey as a whole, so anything you can suggest is appreciated

Ahleckz · 4 Dec 2012 at 12:07

Put the Macallan 10 on your shopping list.

Alternatively you could buy 4 or 5 minatures. Aberlour, Balvenie, Singleton and Talisker should all be available as miniatures online for around £20, and give you a decent introduction.

Sleeve · 4 Dec 2012 at 12:13

Ahleckz said:
Put the Macallan 10 on your shopping list.

Alternatively you could buy 4 or 5 minatures. Aberlour, Balvenie, Singleton and Talisker should all be available as miniatures online for around £20, and give you a decent introduction.

Ok, thats great. Thanks!

Would you advise I drink these straight, or with a drop of water?

Ahleckz · 4 Dec 2012 at 12:16

I think with miniatures, pour half the bottle and have a taste. Then add a tiny (couple of drops) bit of water. Then you'll have the other half to drink as you see best.

Avoid ice and coke!

tom_nieto · 4 Dec 2012 at 12:18

With water. If you're starting out try it with slightly differing amounts until you find a point where the sharpness of the alcohol is just damped enough to get all the smooth flavours (helps you to find what you like). Experiment at this point. Everyone's taste is different and everyone drinks whisky a different way. I sometimes have it with a single ice cube which makes it a little more refreshing for a long drink (awaits flaming).

Sleeve · 4 Dec 2012 at 12:20

Ahleckz said:
I think with miniatures, pour half the bottle and have a taste. Then add a tiny (couple of drops) bit of water. Then you'll have the other half to drink as you see best.

Avoid ice and coke!

Thanks mate, appreciated.

Would the Macallan be a smooth taste? Im not a fan of the harsh throat hit and grimace that most spirits seem to give me.

Ahleckz · 4 Dec 2012 at 12:24

It's probably the smoothest, decent, entry level whisky. All spirit will be a tad harsh for a newcomer though. Obviously water, or being ****ed, will help.

I no longer drink Macallan 10 as it's too smooth for me.