What is a good beginners scotch or whiskey?

Question

I want to start drinking scotch or whiskey on the rocks and am looking for something a novice would like.

Answer 1

first off, if you really want to enjoy these spirits, it is essential to know that there is a SIGNIFICANT difference between scotch, bourbon (kentucky whisky), tennessee whiskey, Irish whisky, Canadian Whiskey and all the other varieties. The only thing they all share is that they are distilled from various mixtures of different grains. That being said, here are some recommendations from each category.
Scotch: (various regions here, and scotch is by far the most varied of all the varieties) For beginners, Highland scotch is the easiest to drink. Very small amount of ice for any single malt scotch, be it Highland, Islay etc. Best to try for beginners would be a Glenmorangie, or start with the big ones like Macallan or Glenlivet.
Bourbon: BLANTON'S-bar none one of the best out there. Or for less expensive, try Makers Mark or Woodford Reserve.
Tennessee Whisky(also known as American Whisky): This is a VERY small category. here it is: JACK DANIELS. Most people confuse Jack with bourbon, but it is NOT one-as it is not made in Kentucky. If you're interested in Jack, steer clear of the low grade stuff and go for Single Barrel or Gentleman Jack.
Canadian Whiskey: Canadian Club is the easy recommendation here-it is a classic example of Canadian Whiskey.
Irish Whiskey: Personal favorite is Bushmills Rye 101. good for what ails ya!

Answer 2

If your going to drink it on the rocks then stick with beer, just kidding. First scotch is a type of whiskey and second both are acquired tastes. Try less expensive drinks like J&B for scotch (which has both a single and blended scotch) and Jim Beam for whiskey, then try others. When you decide what you like then try the good stuff. Here is a good article about the best scotch
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/4787058/
Be careful not to end up an alcoholic like me, I've quit but can't even enjoy a good drink without risking a relaps

Answer 3

Then go with Scotch with one ice cube. "On the rocks" can ruin a good scotch.

The most widely available starters are the Johnny Walker labels. The Red & the Black can be great to get into the drinking. However, they are thought to be somewhat overpriced by purists because they are blended.

Once you acquire a taste for scotch, move to the aged single malts. Many of the "Glen" scotches are for more discernable tastes. My husband is a big Glenmorangie fan, and I know there are a few others that he loves, that I just can't think of the names. They are also glens, but not Glen Levit or Glen Fiddich.

Answer 4

For Scotch I would go with Oban. Not the cheapest, but certainly among the best single malts. Don't even go for blended Scotch - just stick to better single malts. For Bourbon or sourmash, Jack Daniels is a pretty good bet, or go to a better liquor store and get something rare, something that not everyone has heard of. Whatever you do, don't mix your booze with sweet, syrupy mixes. That will surely ruin the taste of any good liquor. Nothing except still or sparkling water. Happy sipping!!

Answer 5

Laphroig - it's a smokey / petey single malt Islay Scotch Whiskey - it's very mild tasting not harsh like a Johnny Walker Red

Answer 6

Chivas , Glenlivet, Glenmorangie Johnny Walker Black / Blue
stay away from the cheapo deluxe stuff.

It is not smoother or easier to drink because it cost less.

There is a big difference between the single and the double malts.
Ask at a speciality store or your local bartender that is in the know he will set you straight.

If you can't drink it neat or on the rocks it is usually swill.

Answer 7

They say most peoples natural cycle of Whisk(e)y drinking is as follows. Most people star with Irish, then Canadian , Scotch and then Bourbon. I don't count American because like one of the gents mentioned above the category consists of ....Jack Daniels ...and I prefer to clean my house with pledge and not drink it.
If you are going to start i would suggest skipping the Irish and starting with a smooth Canadian like Canadian Club (Cola or ginger mix)or a blended scotch like Famous Grouse with some ice and water. As you try more you will find some you like and some you don't . I prefer Knob Creek small batch bourbon from Jim Beam but that is just me ....Happy sampling and good luck!!

Answer 8

It's all an acquired taste. You might as well start with the good stuff (which is still a matter of preference)

Answer 9

Start with bourbon.

Knob Creek or Maker's Mark are both excellent

Answer 10

for whiskey I prefer crown royale