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Best Single Malt Scotch for the Money

Published on: Oct 1, 2022
Last Updated on: Feb 3, 2023
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Continually floating around is the notion that the more expensive a single malt Scotch whisky the better it tastes (and similarly that enjoyment increases directly with the age of the Scotch whisky). If you are just starting to dip a toe in the single malt waters, spending a lot of money on the great unknown is not necessarily a good first move. Even for seasoned Scotch whisky lovers, picking your spots financially has its benefits; among them, exploring flavor profiles outside of your wheelhouse without a hint of buyer’s remorse.

While demand for single malt whisky has materially increased in recent years, you don't necessarily have to turn to blended Scotch; there are still a lot of fun and interesting single malt whiskies available at reasonable prices. Likewise, there are a number of gems which, while a higher price point, more than deliver. With all of this in mind, we reached out to the experts to hear what they think are the best single malt Scotches for the money and which distilleries consistently offer the best value.

Aberlour Casg Annamh

Best bang for your buck has to be the Aberlour Casg Annamh. Fragrant nose, beautifully balanced, long finish, and is quite dangerous as I can never seem to put it down! It’s not a bottom shelf whisky, but it's not going to break the bank either. This is the best bottle under $70 I've ever had.

Stewart Ellis General Manager at Valkyrie

Glen Moray Sherry Cask

The best value for the money is the Glen Moray Sherry Cask.

Erik Peterson Minister of Progress at Bull & Bush Brewery

Dalmore 12, Aberlour 12, Bowmore 12, and Laphroaig 10

There are a few great deals out there but the market is changing rapidly. Right now Dalmore 12, Aberlour 12, Bowmore 12, and Laphroaig 10 are very good value.

Colin Cameron Owner of Duke of Perth

Lagavulin 16, Aberlour 12, and Ardbeg 10

Lagavulin 16 year, Aberlour 12 year, and Ardbeg 10 year are all very commonly requested scotches and are definitely a bang for your buck!

Caden Doyle Assistant General Manager at Nicholson’s Tavern & Pub

Aberlour 12 year, Glenfarclas 17 year, Glenmorangie 18 year

Aberlour 12 year, Glenfarclas 17 year, Glenmorangie 18 year

Lee Tomlin Owner of Merlins Rest Pub

Ardbeg 10

Ardbeg 10

Russ Heaton Owner of Doyle’s Public House

Glenfarclas

Glenfarclas

PJ Wagner Beverage Manager at Untitled Supper Club

Glenfarclas

Glenfarclas

Michael Parker Owner of Opal Divine's Austin Grill

Glenfarclas

It's definitely beating a dead horse, but the dollar-for-dollar winner of the value game is Glenfarclas. That said, other favorite value brands of mine would be the Bowmore, Kilkerran, and Fettercairn bottlings, especially from Milroy (a simple flavor, but very effective).

Liam Thibeault The Brandy Library

Glenlivet 18

Dollar for dollar the Glenlivet 18 is hard to beat.

The MacMillan Whisky Room

Balvenie 12 and Dalmore King Alexander III

Two things are my answer here, Balvenie 12 year, great bang for the buck. It’s reasonably priced and almost everyone enjoys it. Beginners to seasoned Scotch fans, all appreciate this single malt. Now the Dalmore King Alexander III, is not [a] cheap whisky at about $250 a bottle but knocks the socks off whiskies that are 2x or more cost.

Russell Reid General Manager at Two Fools Tavern

Ledaig 10 and Ardbeg 10

Most recently, Ledaig 10 was available in my area for only ~$90. This is an absolutely awesome Scotch from the Isle of Mull that is highly peated with a little smoky sensation as well. If you want to get cheaper, you can never go wrong with Ardbeg 10 year for around ~$60 a bottle.

Kaleb Coleus Bar Manager at Highland Stillhouse

Jura

Jura is very affordable compared to other single malts, and is a good representation of the diverse flavor profiles in Scotland.

Barrel Proof 

Glen Grant 15

Glen Grant 15

Jason Waddleton Owner of The Haven

No matter your tasting preferences or level of expertise, value picks are still out there. If you’re giving someone a single malt as a gift, don’t assume that more necessarily means more. The next time you’re perusing the single malt list at the local dive or walking through a liquor store, take heart in knowing that your wallet doesn’t have to suffer in the name of single malts.

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