News you can trust since 1817 test
World Whisky Day 2022 takes place on the third Saturday in May, meaning this year's event falls on Saturday 21.
With this in mind, we take a look at some new and classic whiskies which are all available for under £100.
Recently launched, Nc’nean’s Organic Single Malt is the first whisky released to the public by this new, independent distillery.
Organic, made with renewable energy and bottled in the UK’s first-ever 100 per cent recycled clear glass bottle, the whisky showcases Nc’nean’s commitment to protecting the environment.
Nc’nean’s whisky is made from organic Scottish barley whose natural yields and rich soils contribute great depth of flavour, and gentle fermentation and distillation accentuate the delicate, fruity flavours in the spirit.
The whisky achieves its signature body and sweetness from having been left to mature for three years in selected ex-Bourbon and specially treated STR ex-red wine barrels. Each barrel has been chosen by Nc’nean for the distinct flavours the wood contributes to the whisky.
Nc’nean Organic Single Malt Whisky is priced at £49.95 for 70cl, 46% ABV.
You will no doubt have seen Monkey Shoulder in a range of places, it’s a really diverse (and often overlooked) blended Scotch whisky.
Made from a mix of three different Speyside Single Malts – Glenfiddich, Balvenie and Kininvie – Monkey Shoulder is popularly used in cocktails but is also great enjoyed neat.
Or, for a simple tipple, just add ginger ale or soda for a delicious highball.
Monkey Shoulder is around £26 and you can buy a bottle here.
The whisky is inspired by the malt tax protests that took place in 1725. These started in Glasgow, then spread across the nation, where protesters came together to demand the tax on malted barley be overturned.
Malt Riot Blended Malt Scotch Whisky is available from the Glasgow Distillery website and independent retailers at an RRP of £25.
Distilled in 2008, this limited edition bottling has been matured in first-fill American oak casks and bottled at cask strength.
On the nose, honeycomb candy with butterscotch fudge, layers of candy floss, crème brûlée and molasses all drenched in a warm spiced bergamot orange liqueur.
Rich, creamy toffee flavours infused with citrus fruits, brownie baked Alaska with hints of choc chip mint ice cream combine leaving a long lingering velvety finish.
A special whisky for the whisky fan looking for something a bit different this year. Buy it online here.
This whisky is an ideal introduction to Benriach’s signature style and richly layered Speyside Single Malt.
Three cask matured for at least ten years in bourbon barrels, sherry casks and virgin oak, to create layers of orchard fruit, honeyed malt and toasted oak, all interwoven with a subtle trace of smoke.
A classic combination combined with Benriach's fruity spirit makes for a great tasting and easy-drinking smooth whisky.
Priced at £38, it's available in Waitrose, The Whisky Exchange and Master of Malt.
This richly sherried single malt is matured for at least 12 years in a combination of the finest Spanish Pedro Ximenez and Oloroso sherry casks.
Natural colour and bottled at 43%, The GlenDronach 12 years old Original is a sweet, creamy dram.
Priced at £45 it's available in the UK available in selected stores including The Whisky Exchange, Master of Malt or The Whisky Shop.
Outlander star Sam Heughan's whisky has won a plethora of awards since it launched in late 2020.
After a sell-out success, it's available again in the UK and is a great entry level whisky for those keen to get into drams. It's also good in cocktails.
Priced at £80, it's available from online retailers such as Master of Malt.
This whisky is a smooth, sweet dram that features a unique honeyed sweetness paired with notes of spiced vanilla, fudge and pineapple.
Priced at £37.50, it's available from the distillery shop and online.
Glen Scotia Victoriana is a cask strength single malt ideal for the whisky connoisseurs.
With its rare character and maturity finished in deep charred oak, the Victoriana is a smooth single malt whisky.
Bottled in the traditional way straight from the cask and without filtration, its subtle wood and vanilla flavour is enhanced by a full- bodied spicy fruit aroma and mildly smoky aftertaste.
This single malt offers a full-bodied palate with initial hints of oak, crème brûlée and caramelised fruits, leading to rich dark chocolate and blackcurrant palate.
It has an RRP of £73 and available from at the Glen Scotia website and specialist whisky retailers.
Should you be looking to spend a little more on something older that won't break the bank and will still taste delicious, then this whisky is a great choice.
Benromach is lightly peated and therefore a great all rounder in terms of taste, meaning you can try a little smoke without feeling overwhelmed.
The extra age also adds a delightful depth and balance that you won't find in younger versions all for just a little over £60.
