Did you know that, on a global scale, Scotland produces the most whisky? They’ve been the number one producer of whisky for more than a century. It may also surprise you that whisky has plant-based antioxidants which may reduce the incidence of heart disease. But if you’re looking to sit back, relax, and enjoy a glass of whisky while possibly reaping some health benefits, you’re probably wondering about the best whisky brands to purchase.
This article walks you through the ins and outs of Johnnie Walker, Glenlivet, Balvenie, and Jameson, along with price points and what makes these brands the best out there. So grab a glass and be sure to keep reading for the best whisky information available.
The Glenlivet
If you’re searching for one of the most beloved and oldest Scotch whisky distillers, then The Glenlivet is ideal. One of the most iconic and awarded whiskies is The Glenlivet 18. It’s produced yearly and easy to find. It’s best served straight up, isn’t smoky, and is appreciated by new and experienced drinkers.
The Glenlivet or Glenfiddich?
You may be wondering if the Glenlivet of Glenfiddich is best. Glenfiddich is smoother, with more subtle, soft flavors that are easier to drink. On the other hand, The Glenlivet is ideal for those seeking a stronger aroma with an oakier taste. The Glenlivet Distillery, producing single malt Scotch whisky, is located near Ballindalloch. This is in Moray, Scotland.
The Glenlivet Pricing
- The Glenlivet Single Malt Scotch Whisky price varies. However, a bottle of The Glenlivet 12-Year Single Malt Scotch 750mL is $39.99. This makes The Glenlivet Whiskey price affordable.
- Another excellent version of The Glenlivet Single Malt Scotch Whisky is The Glenlivet 25-Year Single Malt Scotch. It costs $399.99.
Johnnie Walker
If you’re looking for a reliable, solid Scotch whisky, then Johnnie Walker is ideal. There’s a noticeable smokiness to it, although it’s gentle and subdued. This leaves plenty of room for the Blank Label’s sweet, malty flavors to shine through. Since John Walker first opened the doors of a small grocery store in Scotland in 1820, there are over 200 years of craftsmanship that’s gone into this Scotch whisky. All Johnnie Walker labels are of exceptional drink quality and value, and there’s a price point perfect for every occasion.
Johnnie Walker Pricing
- Johnnie Walker starts at $21.99. This is for a 750mL bottle of Johnnie Walker Black Label 12-Year Scotch.
- Price points vary for a bottle of Johnnie Walker. However, Johnnie Walker Blue Label Scotch 750mL costs $199.99. This makes it the more expensive Johnnie Walker label.
- Johnnie Walker Green Label 15-Year Scotch 750mL is $62.99. This modest price point makes this Johnnie Walker bottle more affordable for those looking for a great Scotch whisky.
How to Drink Johnnie Walker Black Label?
If you’re looking to enjoy a glass of Johnnie Walker Black Label, you’ll want to drink it neat and cleanse your palate with cold water in between each sip. You can also add a few drops of water to your Johnnie Walker, as this opens up the flavors. Remember not to add too much water at once and to experiment to see which flavor you like best.
The Balvenie
The Balvenie offers a sweet flavor with plenty of body. You’ll notice each flavor develop, beginning with a hint of spice and vanilla. You’ll then notice fruit, nuts, nutmeg, and cinnamon come into focus. This spicy yet sweet whisky is ideal for anyone looking for an aromatic blend.
Is Balvenie a Highland Scotch?
The Balvenie is located in Dufftown, Scotland, the malt whisky capital of the world. It’s owned by William Grant & Sons. In 1983, production started at the Speyside distillery. The Balvenie is one of the only distilleries in Scotland that still grows and oversees its barley harvest. It also has a malting floor that malt a portion of its barley. If you’re a fan of The Balvenie, then you may like other Speyside distilleries. These all are available and you get it from online liquor store. This includes The Glenlivet, Glenfiddich, Cragganmore, and Macallan.
If you’re searching for a stronger sherry taste, you can purchase The Balvenie 15-Year Single Barrel Sherry Cask Whisky. A 750mL bottle of this whisky costs $139.99 but is in high demand, so be sure to purchase it in advance. Part of what makes it so exceptional is that no two casks will ever produce the same single malt.
Is The Balvenie a Good Scotch?
The Balvenie is an excellent scotch with a fantastic price point for the quality you’re getting. If you’re just familiarizing yourself with the taste of Scotch, The Balvenie is an excellent place to start.
Take, for example, The Balvenie 12 Double wood. It has a slightly red, caramel appearance and has the aroma of both tropical and orchard fruits. You can also smell honey and vanilla. Its flavor opens up as you sip it, with the initial caramel and honey flavors swiftly followed up by malt, wood, and a dark sweetness. The flavor changes and becomes deeper and richer. The Balvenie 12 Double wood has a smooth, oily texture with a medium body, making it a great Scotch.
Jameson
Until 1971, Jameson Irish Whiskey was produced in Smithfield, Dublin. After that, the company moved production to Midleton, County Cork. The original distillery was dormant for 16 years. It even suffered a good deal of fire damage before being converted into a museum tourist attraction.
John Jameson, a Scotsman, founded Jameson Irish Whiskey, Scotsman John Jameson. He originally manages his wife’s family’s distillery, before purchasing it and later founding the John Jameson and Son Irish Whiskey Company in 1810 with his son, whom he shared a name with. Back then, Jameson was the number-one brand of whiskey in the world. In fact, this distillery produced one million gallons of whiskey every year. By the end of the 19th century, the distillery had taken over more than five acres.
Is Jameson a Good Whiskey?
Anyone in search of a good Irish whiskey will appreciate Jameson. It’s of premium quality and is exceptionally smooth. It’s also modestly priced, although it’s a top-shelf whiskey. Jameson Whiskey also has a profile that’s known for its great taste.
Jameson is a distilled liquor. This means that gluten is removed during its distillation process. As such, Jameson is considered to be generally safe for anyone following a gluten-free diet.
What Does Jameson Taste Like?
Jameson’s original whiskey matures in Irish pale ale barrels. They’re seasoned and give Jameson a floral taste with sweet herbal hops, notes of light grapefruit citrus, and some subtle spicy tones. Since Jameson is relatively inexpensive, it’s an ideal whiskey for beginners. Its sweet yet spicy flavor makes it appealing across the board.
Conclusion
Now that you know more about Johnnie Walker, Glenlivet, Balvenie, and Jameson, you can start sampling. Each brand has a unique history and offers a variety of price points to choose from. For the best libations on the market, Shop SK is your go-to supplier. Be sure to shop our wide selection of whiskey, along with any other liquor and spirits you need. You can also check out our complete lineup of luxury Scotch!
