Exploring Bourbon for Speyside Scotch Lovers: A Guide to First Tastes
Are you a fan of Speyside Scotch and curious to try something new but bourbon? This article will guide you through the world of bourbon from the perspective of a Speyside Scotch connoisseur. We will explore why Angel’s Envy and some single malt American whiskeys are excellent choices for those who love the flavors of Speyside. Additionally, we introduce a highly recommended bourbon, Noah's Mill, for your first taste of bourbon.
Why Noah's Mill is a Good Introduction to Bourbon
Among the many bourbons on the market, Noah's Mill stands out for its unique flavor profile. As a Speyside scotch enthusiast, I have tried many bourbons, and Noah's Mill is the only one that offers a dark fruit sherry finish taste, which is similar to the rich and complex profiles often found in Speyside whiskies. Although it is not a direct equivalent, if you are a Speyside scotch fan, this bourbon is the closest taste you will get.
Just like a Speyside Scotch, Noah's Mill offers a unique taste that is significantly different from American bourbon that is mostly corn-based. If you are a fan of dark fruit flavors, which are common in Speyside whiskies, Noah's Mill is an excellent starting point for your bourbon tasting journey. Its richness and complexity make it a great choice for those who want to experience a taste of Speyside without leaving the bourbon world.
Intermediate Steps to Smoother Transition
If you are new to bourbon and finding it similar to Speyside, there are intermediate steps you can take to make the transition smoother. For example, Angel’s Envy is a bourbon that has been finished in Port barrels. This finishing process imparts a fruity character to the bourbon, which is a feature that many Scotch drinkers appreciate. The addition of fruitiness can help bridge the gap between the two drinks, making the transition easier for you.
Additional Recommendations
In addition to trying bourbons like Noah's Mill and Angel’s Envy, there are other types of American whiskeys that can serve as a bridge to Speyside. Single malt American whiskeys aged in new charred virgin oak barrels offer a caramel base flavor that is quite similar to bourbon. Moreover, they are made from malted barley, which provides a familiar taste for those who are used to single malt Scotch. Here are a few recommendations:
Laws Hordeum – A well-crafted single malt that offers a smooth and caramel-rich flavor. Deer Hammer – Known for its rich and complex flavor profile, Deer Hammer can help you make the leap from Speyside to a unique bourbon experience. Westland – With its rich and fruity notes, Westland can offer a similar taste experience to Speyside whiskies.Tasting these single malt American whiskeys can introduce you to the same caramel base flavor found in bourbon, while also bringing the familiarity of single malt Scotch to the table.
By trying these bourbons and American whiskeys, you can make a smoother transition from the world of Speyside Scotch to the vast universe of American whiskey. From the dark fruit sherry finish of Noah's Mill to the fruitiness of Angel’s Envy, and the caramel-rich profile of single malt American whiskeys like Laws Hordeum, Deer Hammer, and Westland, you can explore and enjoy a wide range of flavors that will cater to your tastes.
Whether you are a Speyside scotch lover or a bourbon enthusiast, these recommendations will help you find your favorite flavors in the world of American whiskey.