Whiskey Oasis in a Dry Spell: A Review of the Top Picks

If you are a whiskey enthusiast, you must have felt the dry spell of 2020. The pandemic has disrupted the whiskey industry, and the supply chains have been struggling to keep up with the demand. But fear not, for our team has scoured the market to bring you the top picks to quench your thirst. Here, we offer an in-depth review of the best whiskeys of 2020.

1. Blanton’s Original Single Barrel

Blanton’s Original Single Barrel has been setting the benchmark for high-quality bourbon whiskey since the 1980s. Made from the finest grains and aged in charred oak barrels, this whiskey is a true connoisseur’s choice. As the name suggests, each bottle is filled from a single barrel, ensuring the utmost consistency in taste and quality. Its rich caramel and vanilla flavors, with a hint of spice, make it a perfect sipping whiskey.

2. Nikka From The Barrel

Nikka From The Barrel is the Japanese whiskey that has been making waves in the whiskey industry. It’s a blend of malt and grain whiskey that is blended at cask strength, giving it a distinct flavor profile. Its nose is fruity, with hints of orange, apricot, and cinnamon. Its taste is complex, with notes of caramel, nutmeg, and oak. If you’re looking for a whiskey to add to your collection, Nikka From The Barrel is a must-try.

3. Pikesville Straight Rye Whiskey

Pikesville Straight Rye Whiskey is the perfect example of a traditional Maryland-style rye. It’s made from a mash bill of 51% rye, 39% corn, and 10% malted barley, giving it a spicy flavor profile. It’s aged in charred oak barrels for six years, allowing the spice to mellow out into a sweet, smooth finish. This whiskey is perfect for those who enjoy a bold and spicy flavor.

4. High West Double Rye

High West Double Rye is a blend of straight rye whiskeys from two different distilleries. The marriage of these two distinct flavor profiles creates a harmonious balance between sweet and spicy. Its nose is filled with aromas of honey and cinnamon, while its taste is a combination of caramel and licorice. This whiskey is perfect for those looking for a unique and complex flavor.

5. Laphroaig 10-Year-Old Single Malt

Laphroaig 10-Year-Old Single Malt is a bold and smoky whiskey that’s not for the faint-hearted. It’s made on Islay, a small island off the west coast of Scotland, and is known for its peaty flavor. Its nose is filled with aromas of seaweed, iodine, and smoke, while its taste is a combination of peat, pepper, and sea salt. This whiskey is perfect for those who like their whiskey with a kick.

FAQs

Q: What is the difference between bourbon and whiskey?

A: Bourbon whiskey is a type of American whiskey that is made from corn and aged in charred oak barrels. Whiskey is a broad term that encompasses several different types, including bourbon, rye, and scotch.

Q: How should I drink whiskey?

A: The best way to drink whiskey is neat, or without any mixers. This allows you to fully appreciate the flavor and aroma of the whiskey. If you prefer a little water or ice, that’s okay too, but be sure not to dilute the whiskey too much.

Q: What is cask strength?

A: Cask strength is a term used to describe whiskey that has not been diluted with water before bottling. This means that the alcohol content is higher than regular whiskey, and the flavor is more intense.