e.g. ARDBEG - 4 ace!

For the newcomer to malts we have selected some whiskies that we consider to be excellent examples of the distillers’ craft and great value for money, all under £30. Against each whisky we have placed a taste score of between 1 and 5 this is not a qualitative score, there's more information in our browsing section.

1 - the most lightly flavoured and smooth; too delicate for some palates, perfect for many.

2 - maybe subtle hints of smoke or peat? Includes the softer Speyside malts. Glenfiddich fans at home here.

3 - mid point, rich malts where there are bold elements influencing the overall taste. Glenlivet fits here.

4 - richer, fuller but not wholly overpowering.

5 -the big whiskies that so many love-and so many don’t; an unguided missile unless you know they like Laphroaig or another Islay malt.

ace! the great whiskies.