Top Picks for Whiskey Under $70: A Guide for Whiskey Enthusiasts
Choosing a high-quality whiskey within a budget can be a bit daunting, especially when you're looking for something that caters to your specific taste preferences. In this article, we explore some of the best whiskeys under $70 (or 70 Euros), offering insights into flavors, production methods, and why these bottles are worth considering.
Springbank-10 Year Old: A Rich Malt with a Peaty Twist
When it comes to exploring the world of single malt whiskies, Springbank is a distillery that stands out. My top pick from this distillery is the Springbank-10 Year Old, which is aged for eight years in ex-Bourbon barrels and an extra two years in ex-Sherry barrels. While it has just a faint hint of peat, its complex flavor profile makes it a standout choice for malt aficionados.
Springbank's commitment to tradition and quality is evident in every bottle, and this 10-year-old single malt is no exception. Whether you're looking for something smooth and rich or a more complex, layered flavor, this whiskey is a must-try. At the time of writing, it came in under $70 in Colorado, making it a budget-friendly choice without compromising on quality.
Laphroaig-10 Cask Strength: A Palate-Gracing Masterpiece
Laphroaig-10 Cask Strength is another excellent option, particularly for those who enjoy the smokiness and briny notes that are hallmark features of Laphroaig. This cask-strength version is a notch above the regular 10-year-old, providing a more robust and nuanced drinking experience. With an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 58%, you might notice that it doesn't smell as strongly smoky/briny as the standard 10-year-old version.
Despite the lower ABV, the palate is anything but disappointing. The intense flavors and depth of this whiskey make it one of the best values for money, especially when it's priced just under $70. Highly recommended for those who appreciate the full-bodied and flavorful characteristics of single malts.
Ardbeg An Oa: A Classic with a Unique Twist
Ardbeg An Oa is a must-try if you have a predilection for smoky whiskies. This 10-year-old single malt is aged in both virgin oak and ex-Sherry barrels, resulting in a rich and complex flavor profile. While it shares some similarities with the 10-year-old Ardbeg, many enthusiasts, including myself, prefer the smoothness and fruitiness of the Ardbeg An Oa.
For those who are looking for something that adds a new dimension to their whiskey collection, Ardbeg An Oa is a fantastic choice. At just under $70, it offers a perfect balance of traditionalism and innovation, making it a no-brainer for aficionados.
Bruichladdich Classic Laddie: A Distinctive Highland Whiskey
Bruichladdich Classic Laddie is a refreshing choice for those who are not partial to heavily peated Islay whiskies. At 50% ABV, this single malt is a standout classic, offering a delightful blend of fruits, berries, and malt, along with a touch of vanilla. It's unpeated, meaning it won't have the prominent peaty flavors that might be off-putting for some palates.
For fans of the Highlands, this whiskey provides a classical experience without the aggressive peaty notes that are characteristic of Islay whiskies. It's also worth noting that it's priced just under $70, making it accessible to a broader audience of whiskey lovers.
AnCnoc Blas: A Highland Classic Worth Collecting
AnCnoc Blas is another Highland classic that stands out for its rich, balanced profile. This cask-strength offering is designed to make you forget about other popular brands in the market, such as Balvenie, Glenfiddich, and Glenlivet. It's not just a matter of taste; it's about creating a memorable drinking experience.
Like the Bruichladdich Classic Laddie, it's priced just under the $70 threshold, making it a must-have for collectors and those who want to add a unique, classic malt to their collection.
Springbank 12 Year Old Cask Strength: A Favorite among Drinkers
Among the best whiskies under $70 is the Springbank 12 Year Old Cask Strength, whichcommanded attention in the past year. At a remarkably affordable price, it's a two-released per year, limited edition that is often sold out quickly. For those who might not be able to get their hands on this particular release, the Benriach Cask Strength Batch 2 is an excellent alternative, coming in just under the $70 mark.
Aberlour A'bunadh: A Distinctive Choice
Lastly, it's worth mentioning Aberlour A'bunadh, which, despite its unique yearly variations, remains a top choice for many. While it may not be the most budget-friendly, it offers a distinctive and different experience each year, making it a unique and memorable addition to your whisky collection.
The world of single malts extends far beyond this list, but these picks are a great place to start for those looking to explore the best whiskies under $70. Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or a budding enthusiast, there's something on this list that will surely satisfy your thirst for quality and flavor.