Curious about Scotland’s most iconic drink? 👉 Raise a glass and explore the world of Scotch whisky—where every sip tells a story.
Start your Scotch journey with something smooth, not smoky
Scotland is the birthplace of whisky, with hundreds of distilleries offering a dizzying range of flavours—from sweet and fruity to bold and peaty. But if you’re just starting out, it’s best to begin with something gentle on the palate. Choosing a beginner-friendly dram means finding one that’s smooth, well-balanced, and easy to sip—even if you’ve never tried Scotch before.
Here are a few great choices for your first taste of Scotland’s national drink.
Glenmorangie Original (Highlands)
Light, floral, and aged in bourbon casks, Glenmorangie’s flagship whisky is a perfect introduction. It offers soft notes of vanilla, citrus, and peach—without the intense smokiness of many peated whiskies.
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Auchentoshan 12 Year Old (Lowlands)
Triple-distilled for a smoother taste, Auchentoshan 12 is delicate and easy to enjoy. Expect light flavours of toasted almond, caramel, and gentle spice. It’s great for those who prefer mellow, low-smoke whisky.
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Glenlivet 12 Year Old (Speyside)
A globally loved single malt, Glenlivet 12 offers soft fruit, honey, and floral notes with a clean finish. It’s a go-to option for whisky beginners and widely available at distillery shops and bars.
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Dalwhinnie 15 Year Old (Highlands)
From one of Scotland’s highest distilleries, Dalwhinnie 15 is a gentle dram with flavours of honey, heather, and just a touch of peat smoke. It’s perfect for beginners looking to explore something a little more complex.
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Balvenie DoubleWood 12 (Speyside)
Aged in both bourbon and sherry casks, this whisky delivers warm notes of vanilla, dried fruit, and subtle spice. It’s rich yet smooth and ideal for new whisky drinkers looking for depth without overwhelm.
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Have you tried any of these beginner-friendly whiskies—or do you remember your first dram?
Tell us what you liked (or didn’t), and share your tips for fellow whisky newcomers! 👉 Is there a Whisky Trail in Scotland?
Curious about Scotland’s most iconic drink? 👉 Raise a glass and explore the world of Scotch whisky—where every sip tells a story.
Secure Your Dream Scottish Experience Before It’s Gone!
Planning a trip to Scotland? Don’t let sold-out tours or packed attractions dampen your adventure. Iconic experiences like exploring Edinburgh Castle, cruising along Loch Ness, or wandering through the mystical Isle of Skye often fill up fast—especially during peak travel seasons.
Booking in advance guarantees your place and ensures you can fully immerse yourself in the rich culture and breathtaking scenery without stress or disappointment. You’ll also free up time to explore Scotland's hidden gems and savour those authentic moments that make your trip truly special.
Make the most of your journey—start planning today and secure those must-do experiences before they’re gone!
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