If you’re new to drinking scotch whisky and don’t know where to begin you’re not alone. You may think of scotch as something your grandfather would drink in one of those criss-cross glasses in a dark corner of their private bar.  If you ever sneaked a sip as a child you would’ve been met with the horrific burn and watering eyes that only strong alcohol can bring. Thankfully our taste buds and palate mature with young and old enjoying the delectable beverage neat (by itself) on the rocks (with a single ice cube), with soda or in a cocktail. There is a flavour profile to suit every palate but it can be hard to decipher the language, and then there are the prices. More expensive doesn’t necessarily mean better taste!

We’ve broken down the top 3 single malt (not blended) scotch whiskys that are reasonably priced and easy on the taste buds without that horrible burn.

The Glenlivet Founder's Reserve Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Smooth and balanced slightly fruity flavours with traditional oak cask aftertaste. This is a good introduction to scotch and has no fire, no smoke, no burn, no aftertaste.

Glenfiddich 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky

The classic scotch found in every bar. It’s smooth, fresh and a lovely sweet aftertaste due to the Sherry and Bourbon Oak cask finish. This is a go-to scotch every beginner should try, no smoke, no burn, sweet aftertaste.

Spey River 12 year old Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Not from the standard scotch range. Smooth with light fruity flavours with vanilla. A light flavour, with a light burn due to the more youthful nature of the scotch. No peat, no smoke, no fire, light aftertaste of oak. A drop of water is recommended to smooth down the light burn and open up the sweet fruity taste.