
The Macallan - 12 Year Old Double Cask ($71) Frank Caiafa, author of The Waldorf Astoria Bar Book. As a bonus, their Black Grouse performs the same function as lead-in for peated-styled whiskies.” It’s inherent softness, drinkability and pleasing honeyed flavor profile exists to simply be the first step in the imbibers long road through the varied offerings that are Scottish whisky. “For those unfamiliar with barley as the lead grain in their whisky, I usually recommend a blended rendition. The Famous Grouse - Blended Scotch Whisky ($24) Joel Caruso, Los Angeles-based bartender. “Johnny Walker provides a clear window into a vast world of scotch whisky without overwhelming your senses, or wallet, while still offering a line of varying degrees of quality, price and seriousness you can confidently progress though in the blended category.” Johnnie Walker - Black Label Blended Scotch Whisky ($35) Aaron Goldfarb, author of Hacking Whiskey.

It’s also accessible and economical, so no fear of going broke.”

It’s low ABV but not low in flavor, with a dessert-y, peaches-and-cream type flavor profile. It’s very pleasant and lacking in the aggression of smoke and peat that turn off so many neophytes. “This is perfect for a novice-while still respected by connoisseurs. Grouse, The Macallan Photo Illustration: Brad Japhe Glenmorangie - The Original 10 Year Old ($35) Best scotch whisky for beginners: Glenmorangie The Original, Johnnie Walker Black Label, The Famous.
