The Perfect Scotch for Your Favorite Veteran
Searching for a great Veteran’s Day gift for the Scotch-whisky-loving veteran in your life but don’t know much about scotch? If so, the local liquor store’s abundant offerings can be daunting. Not to worry, though. Below isa list of five high-quality scotches that are sure to make a splash this Veteran’s Day.
The following list will help you in your search for a great Veteran’s Day gift. But you should definitely also check out this beginner’s guide for more on the rich history and nuances of Scotch whisky.
Sláinte!
Glenfiddich 12 Year – $46
You can’t go wrong with a scotch whose history dates back to 1887, and with outstanding name recognition to boot. They continue to use Highland spring water, the same as they did in the beginning. The Glenfiddich 12 is a clean, mellow expression, with pear and subtle oak notes. It can be a wonderful introduction to scotch or a reunion with an old friend.
Speyburn Arranta Casks – $49
Speyburn’s Arranta is inspired by the Gaelic word meaning “intrepid and daring.” This single-malt scotch was aged in first-fill ex-bourbon American oak casks. This lends it the same boldness attributed to American bourbon. It’s full-bodied and rich with notes of toffee, spice, honey, and coconut.
This is a limited-edition bottling, and at that price, it’s a special addition to any scotch collection.
Bowmore 12 Year – $63
Bowmore hails from Islay, a region best known for its peaty whiskies (think Ardbeg and Lagavulin). The Bowmore 12 is best suited for someone who likes smoke in their scotch. Even with that in mind, it’s a well-balanced dram with honey and hints of lemon zest on the palate. The distillery couldn’t have put it any better: “We like to think of it as vanilla ice cream at a beach bonfire.”
Balvenie Doublewood – $70
Here, the whisky spent 12 years in traditional whisky casks as well as American oak ex-bourbon casks. But then, it was transferred to Spanish oak ex-Oloroso (a rich kind of sherry) for nine more months; hence the “Doublewood” moniker. Enjoy soft vanilla with distinct callbacks to the sherry influence, as well as baking spices and a little fruited sweetness.
Balvenie is absolutely iconic – perhaps the best-known name on this list. You can’t miss by choosing any of their offerings. But the Doublewood is a unique expression that shouldn’t be ignored.
Glen Moray 18 Year – $90
Glen Moray is based in Speyside, a northern Scotch region best known for The Macallan and Glenlivet. Surprise your veteran with a slightly lesser-known whisky in the Glen Moray 18. It’s warm and honeyed, with delicate notes of white pepper, apricot, and caramel apples. It has a long, considered finish.
Like Glenfiddich, Glen Moray’s history goes back to the end of the 1800’s. These distilleries are a true testament to the determination, grit, and devotion to excellence required to stand the test of time.
A bottle of any one of these Scotch whiskies would make a fantastic gift. But if you really want to put it over the top, consider pairing a bottle with a set of tumblers or a graceful decanter. Your favorite veteran is sure to be surprised and delighted.
This Veteran’s Day, which scotch will you gift to your favorite veteran?
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