Top 10 - Underrated Brands & Distilleries
For this Top 10, I spent a lot of time thinking about some of the brands & distilleries that I feel don't get the love and respect they deserve. You know, the ones that work tirelessly behind the scenes to produce the outstanding whisky we drink, only to be overlooked by other distilleries or brands.
Note the list has been compiled in no particular order (1-10)
Wolfburn
Since I first tasted this North Highland distillery's whisky a few years ago, I've been hooked and have now become a major fan, yet for reasons I can't explain, many people still continue to underestimate it. For my part, though, I shall and will rave about this distillery's finely produced whisky to anybody who will listen. In conclusion, id say that their core range includes a strong and interesting line-up that is absolutely noteworthy, there’s something for everyone. Additionally, they offer unique seasonal releases that are always exciting and enjoyable!
Instagram: @wolfburn_whisky Website: wolfburn.com
Tamdhu
Another distillery that is greatly underestimated and receives little in terms of a cult following. Personally, I support Tamdhu and appreciate the product, but it pains me to see it go unnoticed. Tamdhu distillery for me works relentlessly to produce the whisky that customers demand, with award-winning variants that give flavour bursts beyond the imagination.
Instagram: @tamdhuwhisky Website: tamdhu.com
Fettercairn
Another often, forgotten distillery, that in recent years has seen a steady incline of hysteria around their whisky. I think this is down to experimenting with some wonderful cask types. Hopefully, the hype will continue to run and they will continue to travel in the right direction.
Instagram: @fettercairnwhisky Website: fettercairnwhisky.com
Glenglassaugh
Glenglassaugh is a distillery with a long history that still uses traditional distillation processes, and while I've only sampled a handful of their whiskies, all of which were excellent BTW!, I believe Glenglassaugh could use some love and attention. Check them out here to see for yourself.
Instagram: @glenglassaugh Website: glenglassaugh.com
The Cotswolds Distillery
English whisky is steadily becoming much more popular among Scotch purists and whisky enthusiasts alike, but it isn't getting as much attention as it might or should, and the up and coming Cotswolds Distillery, in my opinion, should be at the centre of the discussion. You might argue that because it's young whisky, it hasn't yet revealed its true flavour, but what they've released so far has been outrageously excellent and undoubtedly flavoursome whisky, offered at a very competitive price.
Instagram: @cotswoldsdistillery Website: cotswoldsdistillery.com
Paul John
I'm a big fan of variety and am willing to give new things a shot, like I did when I first tried Paul John and was completely taken aback by the flavour. In other words, anyone can love the Indian distilled whisky as much as I do, and if so they can enjoy a wide range of expressions and complete transparency within their core range.
Instagram: @pauljohnwhisky Website: pauljohnwhisky.com
Teeling
Teeling delivers on all levels, for me, offering something for everyone. The core range is nothing short of amazing, and reasonably priced too. You should check them out if you can. Additional more high end bottlings are available as well as decent special releases.
Instagram: @teelingwhiskey Website: teelingwhiskey.com
Midleton Very Rare
A premium brand that stands alongside greats like Jameson and Redbreast, although it is neglected in my opinion. Personally, I like the product and appreciate the brand's devotion and direction, but it saddens me, as it does others, to see it fly under the radar. What the Midleton Distillery consistently produces under the Midleton Very Rare name is nothing short of amazing in my belief.
Instagram: @midletonveryrare Website: midletonveryrare.com
Tullibardine
Tullibardine has a long history, but I get a feeling that something is growing behind the scenes, and I can clearly feel a closer connection with distillery fans. As far as I'm concerned, there's definitely a buzz on social media. Have a look for yourself and see what you think.
Instagram: @tullibardinewhisky Website: tullibardine.com
Glencadam
This distillery produces very nice whisky, which in my opinion, is frequently overlooked and undoubtedly discounted by some. During lockdown, this brand stood out to me as one of the best. One of the highlights was them reaching out and performing zoom tastings. The 17 and 21 year old classic/old style whiskies are outstanding examples, in my opinion, of what a great whisky ought to be. If you can, you must check them out.
Instagram: @glencadamwhisky Website: glencadam.com
