Stocking a Self-Respecting Single Malt Whisky Bar
OFF TOPIC.
It’s 2:00 p.m. Your father-in-law is coming over for dinner. He’s a single malt whisky guy. Time is short. You need a list of whiskies to purchase and have on hand from which he can choose. And, it’s time for you to try the deep end of the single malt whisky pool.
Who can you trust to help you? The guys at your liquor store are younger than you. They look like idiots. Here is the shopping list you are looking for – what single malts to stock in your home’s self-respecting whisky bar. If you have several of these whiskies, no one will ever doubt your taste in whisky.
Yes, this list comprises my opinion. Just an opinion. Who am I? No one with any special background. I have viewed hundreds of Ralfy’s videos on YouTube. I have been to the Glasgow Whisky Festival and the Bon Accord. I sip.
In Memphis, I highly recommend my friend’s store, Buster’s.
Single malt whiskys a self-respecting home whisky bar must have on hand at all times:
1. Highland Park 18. My all-time favorite. What whisky should taste like. Can’t miss.
2. Springbank 10. The best craft distillery in the world according to Ralfy. Great value.
3. Balblair (at least 15 years old). Amazing. Must try.
4. Ardbeg 10. The best expression and value.
5. Lagavulin 16. Perfect.
6. Laphroaig 10. The killer.
7. Glendronach 15 The Revival. Best sherried single malt value.
Second Tier:
1. Kilchomen Loch Gorm. Must try this.
2. Benriach 17 Septendicem. What whiskey should be.
3. Longrow 10. Springbank’s peated version. Seriously good.
4. Balvenie 15 Single Barrel. Rock solid. Amazing.
5. Old Poulteney 17. Unique.
6. Craigellachie 17. Gentle, yet complex.
7. Glengoyne 18. Very tasty.
8. Glenlivet 18. Surprisingly good whiskey.
For special occasions when price is less important:
1. Highland Park 21. Maybe the best ever.
2. Springbank 21. Tremendous.
3. Ardbeg Supernova. Delicious. Not as overwhelming as you might expect.
4. Laphroaig 18. So much.
5. Glenfarclas 25. Tasty. One of the best for sherried whisky fans.
