5 Great Budget-friendly Single Malts You Should Try

[@Taurui]

Budget buy? Lets call it guilty pleasure whisky. For me, it is a whiskEy: Connemara. No idea why, but I just love that flavor profile. I enjoy it every time.

[@Miiro101]

This just nailed it! More of these budget friendly listings. Prices are going up on whisky all around the world. These kind of reviews will help to find more affordable options. Can you do a listing on budget sherry cask matured/finnished whiskies?

[@Gwhisky]

Something to consider after I've done the age-stated follow-up list to this one. Cheers! 🥃

[@bdwilcox]

Budget sherry cask? Naked Malt (used to be Naked Grouse) blended single-malts. $33 here in the US and it's delicious, finished in first-fill sherry casks.

[@deeshmond]

I’m not a big Laphroaig guy but the Quarter Cask is probably my favourite offering. Another super budget-friendly one that was a pleasant surprise for me was the Robert Burns from Arran. Got a bottle for under £30 in the UK

[@miikakahara4011]

Meanwhile in Finland… Tomatin was about 40€ when available Glen Moray may be found around 36 € but not Chardonnay version. Deanston you’ll need to recover from Estonia - 30€ Laphroaiq qc, pants/jaw dropping 63€ Ledaig … only the basic 10… 55€ …but they are all on the cheap side here :)

[@t0evo]

Thank you, Geoff. Great thing from you 🎉, like always.

[@Gwhisky]

Hah thanks for watching, Alec. 🥃

[@bart6526]

Good one! Brexit and inflation causing the quarter cask to be at around 47 euro in the Netherlands. Over here you get some decent blended malts and the intro lines of Arran, Glencadam etc for stated budget price range. Discounted deals for Talisker 10, Laphroaig 10, Arran 10 and Pulteney for the same. But I agree with you saving up for a bit more flavour layers won’t regret you the bottom half of the bottle.

[@clucchese19]

Great selection! Im a fan of Bladnoch Samsara & Goenglassaugh Revival

[@peathead4450]

Interesting list, Geoff, thanks for sharing. My suggestion would be the Loch Lomond sigle grain peated.... which is a malt distilled in a column still and therefore can not be called single malt. (And pssst... about half the price of the Laphroaig QC) From your list the Laphroaig is by far my favourite. Slàinte mhath

[@DileepB]

I paid $68 for Laphroaig Cask last year.

[@tinchin75]

I agree, the Loch Lomond single grain peated is great, although technically it's not a "single malt". And the original Loch Lomond (not as good as the other) it's decent stuff.

[@barokluit]

Agreed on The Classic Laddie as a go-to dram. Thanks for the list!

[@Gwhisky]

Pleasure. Thanks for watching, Timothy. 🥃

[@lesliemarshall3764]

Excellent review. The laphroaig QC and the Deanston VO aren’t complex as you said, but they are honest straightforward examples of their regions. With a highland malt, you expect honey, vanilla, oak and floral notes- exactly what Deanston has. For an Islay- smoke, peat, and underlying sweetness, the QC definitely has that. I enjoy them both.

[@Gwhisky]

Well said! 🥃

[@FramfallsTure]

AnCnoc 12 for your budget age stated list. The only 40% whisky I always have in my cabinet.

[@Gwhisky]

Count on it! 🥃

[@alexanderroyle]

Great vid you little rascal. Cheapest malt I've bought in the past couple of months - Tamnavulin Sherry Cask (£23), Cardhu Gold (£25), Penderyn Madeira Cask (£26) , Aberlour 12 (£28). Cheers!

[@Gwhisky]

Oh that Penderyn Madeira would have fit nicely on this list! 🥃

[@Balkonwhisky]

Hello Geoff, Great List, i always have the Deanston and the Ledaig in Reserve. Keep pushing your Channel 👍 (according to your higher Output of Vids, and your Titles of it for the Algorithm 😅)

[@Gwhisky]

Hah thanks buddy. My output hasn't changed, but yeah KZbin is a tough game to play! Hah. 🥃

[@Hellraiser-ni5qp]

I bought the Tomatin Legacy like 4 years ago because everyone was so excited about it's quality price ratio. It was not even drinkable for me. It was so sharp that I needed to add water. But that would destroy it completely. The Ardmore Legacy was so much better in comparison.

[@tibimirta8085]

My favorites: Arran 10 years, 32 euro, Arran Quarter Cask 36 euro, Deanston 12 years, 36 euro, Glendronach 8 years The Hielan, 31 euro, Bunnahabhain Stiuireadair 41 euro, retail prices from Romania

[@Gwhisky]

Good picks. A couple of those might show up on my age-stated list! Seems I really need to try the Stiuireadair. People keep recommending it here. Cheers Tibi! 🥃

[@hansvaneenennaam457]

Hi Geoff, nice idea resulting in a great list. And the number 1 is indeed a great whisky. Maybe the most expensive one on the list, but the best. See the list with prices below from a big Dutch on line retailer in Euro's: Tomatin legacy: 21.95 Glen Moray Chardonnay cask: 21.95 Deanston Virgin oak: 24.95 Laphroaig Quarter cask: 44.95 currently discounted Ledaig Rioja cask: 45.95 Arran barrel reserve: 24.95 currently discounted

[@Gwhisky]

Thanks for the info, Hans. Actually you guys have pretty decent prices by European standards! 🥃

[@hansvaneenennaam457]

@@Gwhisky For these ones for sure , others have increased extremely

[@redsox367]

Nice , list, I have the ledaig, the Deanston and the Tomatin Legacy. Think you were a bit tough the legacy for which I pay about £29 for including UK taxes. Love it as a starter dram or if I want to drink rather than analyse a dram

[@Isthatabeerinyourpocket]

Great video again, I have bought all of these within the last 12 months and my favourite is the Ledaig too. Here are the prices I paid for them in the UK, in order, Tomatin Legacy £25, Glen Moray £25, Deanston virgin oak £29, Laphroaig Quarter Cask £32, Ledaig Rioja £29. My recommendation for a decent NAS is Bunnahabhain Stiùireadair, often retails circa £25 in the UK.

[@Gwhisky]

That Bunna is one I haven't tried.. I'll have to keep an eye out for it! 🥃

[@Isthatabeerinyourpocket]

Yes, do mate. A decent NAS that I think would sit in the top 3 of those you listed. Thanks for being so interactive with your viewers.

[@davidm_shaw]

Brace yourself Geoff: here in Australia we get the following prices… - Tomatin Legacy, $90 - Glen Moray (Port), $60 - Deanston VO, $90 - Laphroaig 1/4 Cask, $140 - Ledaig Rioja, $100 (my local has it for $150!)

[@juntaelee381]

That’s AUD right? That sounds as bad as where I am in South Korea!

[@davidm_shaw]

@@juntaelee381, yep. AUD. I was in Korea over the winter (my wife is Korean). I did see the Ledaig Rioja at a Homeplus in Daegu for only W70,000 which is pretty good value.

[@juntaelee381]

@@davidm_shaw That surprises me too! Maybe it’s different by region. I bought the bottle just a couple weeks ago and the cheapest price I could find in Seoul was around 85K. But either way sad to hear the Australian market is as bad!

[@Gwhisky]

Geeeeeez. Congrats... you've got the worst prices I've seen down here in the comments. Maybe "congrats" is the wrong word....

[@davidm_shaw]

@@Gwhisky our best value whisky here is probably something like Cutty Sark Prohibition for $70. A good (ie., craft presented) single malt, unless it’s on special, is usually at least $100. You can get Loch Lomond 12 for $75 and their 18y/o for as little as $100 when on special. Other than that, maybe Glen Scotia’s Double Cask for $80 is as good as you’ll find.

[@gareth630]

Great 5 picks Geoff all top drams especially Glen Moray ( for those who want top end stuff look at their Warehouse offerings ;-) ) I was going to add Bunna Stiuireadar and Glen Scotia double cask, but did a price check both closer to £39-00 UK but i got the Bunna for under £30-00 in Feb in a local supermarket. Shop around keep you're eyes open folks.

[@Gwhisky]

Yeah I've heard about those Moray Warehouse releases. Sadly I can't find them here. The Bunna Stiuireadar has been recommended a few times in the threat. Haven't tried it yet, so I'll have to look out for a bottle. Cheers Gareth! 🥃

[@davidowen2834]

Good list video Geoff. These are decent entry level malts at good prices, nothing wrong with having some of these in your cabinet. I remember paying €19 for the legacy and €20 for Glen Moray classic peated. Got the Laphraiog QC at home but its knocking €40. Got a bottle on offer for €32 👍. Another entry level malt that’s at a pretty good price is Glenfarclas 10, still at a reasonable €26 .Good that you look at these malts Geoff, nice one and Slàinte.

[@Gwhisky]

I haven't seen the Glenfarclas 10 here in ages. I believe I tried it a long time ago, but it's definitely one I'll have to revisit the next time I come across it again. Seems we're really lucky to have the QC so cheap here in Taiwan... pretty much everyone is paying much more for it. Cheers David! 🥃

[@gjce1]

Great list! I’d recommend Cutty Sark prohibition and Tamnavulin (lots of decent expressions) in the ‘very affordable’ NAS category.

[@Gwhisky]

I was going for single malts here, but Cutty Sark Prohibition is good stuff! Can't say I've tried the Tamnavulins. Cheers! 🥃

[@TheReal_DeanD]

My go to budget buy is no longer a budget buy. It was Benromach 10 year that was $41 USD. Post 2020 now it is min $56. Where I am budget single malts now start @ $40-$48. Sub $35 is just blends. Even NAS single malts are $38.

[@Gwhisky]

Damn that sucks. Benromach 10 is about USD $33 here, so still quite affordable. Should have included that one, actually! We're very lucky in Taiwan to have some of the cheapest prices for scotch in the world. 🥃

[@Rohit_M]

Great budget list G. The two I like on your list are Deanston VO at around $55 in my market and (hold onto your chair) QC is at $106 CAD...ridiculous price for the QC to say the least. I am not going replace the QC once I am done with the bottle I have on the go. The Arran Barrel Reserve is better at $55 although a little thin on the palate. Suffice to say in today's inflated prices, there are still a plenty of good quality drams that won't break the bank.

[@Gwhisky]

Geeeeeez. CAD $106 for QC is insane. I'll definitely have to find a new hobby if I ever move back home. Absurd prices in Canada. 🥃

[@davieislay]

Happy for my Tobermory colleagues, Geoff, but that Sinclair Rioja really is a banger! 💥

[@Gwhisky]

It really is! Cheers David! 🥃

[@philc1884]

Nice, w keep an eye out for the Ladaig. Glen Moray is solid. I have the Port Csk, low $30's in NY. Ever hear of Gladstone? The lightly peated Black Axe is nicely balanced and a steal at under $30. Not sure where you're getting the Classic Laddie price. I've yet to see it under $55. Cheers dude, nice guns 💪

[@Gwhisky]

Yeah I keep hearing from Americans that you guys don't have access to that Ledaig. Shame... super good stuff. It's part of their regular core range, so hopefully it finds its way into your market soon. Can't say I've tried the Gladstone. I usually focus on OB releases, but there are loads of great mystery malt deals to be had. I'll keep my eyes peeled for it. As for the Laddie... another one that's overpriced in the States. It's usually USD $35 or less here in Taiwan. Cheers Phil. 🥃

[@ninetyZeven]

If I've said it once I've said it again, the (Arran) Robert Burns Single Malt, if you can find it. Flavor city, impressive for 40%. A treasure.

[@Gwhisky]

I remember you've suggested that here before, Coop. Sadly it's nowhere to be found in Taiwan. I used to see it around but it's been years. I'll keep my eyes open. 🥃

[@RaduB.]

All of them are about 30% more expensive here in Romania. I was expecting hearing about that Arran. My favorite budget scotch is an age stated one so I'll wait for your next video. 🙂

[@Polytheiser]

The Tomatin Legacy is my favourite budget whisky for Mizuwari, mixed with Soda right now, very good one for that!

[@cascode1192]

All good solid suggestions and nice you bypassed the usual suspect cheap Glenfiddich, Glenmorangie etc. in favour of the next shelf up 👍 In the price bracket there are some great competing blended malts (Douglas Laing regionals, etc) and some premium blended scotches to consider as well (Black Bull). One single malt I’d strongly recommend is Aultmore 12 which is an integrity bottling that is often overlooked. Cheers 🥂

[@Gwhisky]

Wow Douglais Laing stuff is nowhere near this price category in Taiwan. Count yourself lucky! Aultmore 12 is decent stuff. Slightly higher than my (arbitrary) cut-off price here in Taiwan, but still good bang-for-buck. Cheers! 🥃

[@ronchen6276]

Nice list, Geoff. Deanston Heritage Sherry Cask Finish is also a good choice to buy in Taiwan, it’s around 27 USD.

[@Gwhisky]

It's a decent one. Nice flavours, but the weak abv is kind of annoying. I usually stick to the Virgin Oak. Cheers Ron! 🥃

[@DonnerPassWhisky]

For a Glen Moray that you will be very impressed with try the 18. It's 47.6% ncf nc and full maturation in 1st fill bourbon. The price is also low for an 18. I had mine at the same time as the old brown label Deanston 18 and the Glen Moray consistently won in side by side tastings with the Deanston. Cheers

[@Gwhisky]

It's been one I've been seeking out for a while. Sadly it's tough to come by here. I'll buy it on sight the next time I do. Cheers Tim! 🥃

[@jeremytheoneofdestiny8691]

I see the John Walker bicentennial bottle on your shelf back there. Very fantastic whisky there! Wish I could find it again.

[@Gwhisky]

Agree. Good stuff! 🥃

[@allenbt11]

I think you mentioned it in the original review but Tomatin Legacy is typically branded Dualchas in the US. Also I am surprised & envious Laphroaig Quarter Cask made the list. In my market this runs US$65+ typically. You guys have great pricing in Taiwan. Cheers.

[@Gwhisky]

Ah yeah I should have mentioned that here. A lot of Americans are saying they can't find Legacy there. 🥃

[@evanhayes5891]

You have the sections named, and for the Tomatin, you called it Tibetan Legacy!

[@jeremiasschoenherr]

Hello there, So I have to add: Glen Grant Majors Reserve! Serious bang for your buck! And Ardmore Legacy! After that I think the Glen Moray Sherry Cask is pretty decent. Another suprise for me was the Glenmorangie X, if you ignore the marketing blab about mixing, it's a pretty decent casual sipper ( Serge reviewed it helpfully too). The Laphie QC is generally pricier then the 10yo and also higher quality in my humble opinion. All the best!

[@misantrope]

Hey! I live in Sweden. Here Tomatin Legacy sells for about $39, Glen Moray $30, Deanston $44, Laphroaig $57, Ledaig $52. Thanks for the work you put into your channel and the great videos posted.

[@Gwhisky]

Thanks for sharing the prices. Quite different from here. Cheers and thanks for watching. 🥃

[@bobdobolinaa]

Solid list! My score:4/5: I didn't taste the Glen Moray. Totally agree with the order here. Still have to open the Ledaig Rioja I bought last week but I have great expectations❤

[@Gwhisky]

It's a great value buy. I'm sure it won't disappoint. Enjoy Bob! 🥃

[@bobdobolinaa]

@@Gwhisky My flavour hunt is in a phase where I have bottles both on a whish list and bottles in stock on a 'to open' list. 😂 I think this one has just moved to first place😉👍

[@peatbull3426]

​@@bobdobolinaa its absolutely Banger! I was drinking Ledaig Rioja together with Benromach 10 in one session almost every day. Been addictet to these bottles. Finished both drams in less than month time. 😁🥂🙋🏻‍♂️

[@bobdobolinaa]

@@peatbull3426 My mouth is watering. The Benromach 10 is great stuff indeed.

[@RebMordechaiReviews]

Ha Ha, I was waiting for you to mention the Arran Barrel Reserve. At least you admitted that you forgot it.😁 This is a simply superb budget Single Malt. The quality is way up there with some lovely Ex-Bourbon Barrels. yes, it's watered down but still gives you an honest big flavour experience. I agree with you that the Tomatin Legacy is just about acceptable. Too many corners have been cut for my taste and tastes a bit like they have tried to compensate for the lack of age by using really charred casks to boost flavour and hide immaturity. It's not bad but they could learn a thing or two from Deanston, who have a very similar product, the Virgin Oak, yet this is, in my opinion, a genuinely great single malt whisky which i would not be ashamed to serve. Wonderful flavours and it doesn't taste like a fake. It's clear that they've used some quality Ex-Bourbon barrels as well as heavily charred Virgin Oak casks. Well done Deanston! As you said, I have never been disappointed with anything from Glen Moray. I'd rate them best value for money in terms of flavour and variety. When I'm in Scotland and touring distilleries and sampling exotic distillery only cask Strength single malts, I often pick up a Glen Moray Classic or 12 in the supermarket on my my back to our rented chalet as our evening dram. As you said, it's wonderful just to sip by an open fire when you're tired and just want to relax and not think too much. For a great introduction to Peated Whisky on a budget, the Glen Moray Peated Classic is a wise choice. Recommend Single Malts you did not mention: The Glencadam American Oak Reserve. This is similar to the Arran Barrel Reserve. Budget friendly, honest, no frills quality whisky and bottled at 40% abv. An honorary mention to Loch Lomond Classic and Original. Not bad at all. Also, although many think it is NAS, it does actually have an age statement (10 years), The Glenmorangie Original. This is very often on offer and is a full flavour simple and enjoyable Single Malt, on the same lines as Arran Barrel Reserve. *Budget Whiskies to Avoid* Tomintoul 10 and Tomintoul NAS. Young whisky matured in old non-active casks produces some harsh nail polish remover off-notes. The Glenlivet Founders Reserve . The least said about this the better. Avoid.

[@JimmyMacTavish]

Looking forward to your age stated list!

[@eviltrain24]

I WISH the Laphroaig QC was under $40 in the US. I bought mine for $50 back in 2021. I don't imagine it's come down in price. That said, I felt it was equal to it's price and worth buying. I have heard that batch variation for this line is a little broader than desirable though. The ONLY whisky I can offer up sold at it's regular price of $35 or under in California would be the Scarabus Islay Single Malt. This would be a legitimate Islay experience that isn't neutered that I could offer to whisky nerds without embarrassment. I've bought the Glen Garioch Founder's Reserve at $30 and the Deanston V.O. at $28 but those were discount prices from a couple of years back.

[@Gwhisky]

Yeah I considered some mystery malts for this list, there are plenty of good ones, but I decided to stick with the IBs in the end. I might do a mystery malt list someday, too, though. USD $50 is probably quite fair for the Laphroaig. Again, I'm lucky to live in one of the cheapest whisky markets in the world. Cheers! 🥃

[@gebrje01]

Hi, As for the laphroaig quarter cask. Here in the Netherlands we now pay an average of €50, which is a price increase of more than €15 within 2 years. Unfortunately, this whiskey does become a bit flat when you are halfway through the bottle.

[@Gwhisky]

Ah sorry to hear it's more expensive now. That's a bit much. As for going flat... I've noticed that's a problem with quite a few Laphroaigs. Many of them don't agree with too much oxygen. 🥃

[@donaldstewart9654]

Hi Geoff, might I suggest Bunnahabhain Stiùireadair which I picked up for £25 yesterday, it’s usually £32. I agree Laphroaig QC and Bruichladdich Classic Laddie both sadly getting harder to find below £40 these days 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@Gwhisky]

A few people have mentioned that one in the comments. It's not one I've tried yet. I'll keep an eye out for it. Thanks Donald! 🥃

[@CS110768]

Glenlivet founders reserve was a surprise for me, value/taste

[@jackhammer8439]

The v neck is back…the world is right again. Oh yes, the whiskey. Only had the L QC.l from the main list. But it is my favorite go to “cheaper” whiskey. That said. It is sadly $110 here in Ontario Canada now. 6 months maths ago it was $80ish…craziness! Classic Laddie l and Barrel Reserve are also pretty decent. My other entry levels are Arran Quarter Cask, Glenmo 10, Wee Beastie,

[@Gwhisky]

Yeah I forgot to include the Arran. Good one. The Wee Beastie was considered here, but it didn't quite make the price cut-off. 🥃

[@pierreluna1654]

Nice review and very necessary for this time... My last whiskies around 20/22 euros in France during promotions Glen grant 10 Glen Moray 10 Deveron 10 Bushmills black bush Aerstone 10 Land cask just some euros more : Knockando 15 (25 euros !! )

[@Gwhisky]

Interesting. A couple of those I haven't tried. Any favourites in there? 🥃

[@pierreluna1654]

@@Gwhisky All of them are very good for the price. (Aerstone 10 not opened yet) Personally I found the Knockando 15 more complex . Normally it costs 40 euros in France (a bargain for a 15 years) but I had a chance to buy it at 25 e )

[@BanjoSick]

In my market (Norway) the prices are as follows: Tomatin Legacy: 58$ Glen Moray Chardonnay finish - not available Deanston Virgin Oak: 53$ Laphroaig Quarter Cask: 67$ Ladaig Roija Cask - not available And that is why I get my whisky when I travel home to Germany several times a year, haha.

[@Gwhisky]

Ouch! Pricey! How much is the Himalayan rock salt, though? 🥃

[@darkoanton5]

In Ontario, Canada in US $ Tomatin Legacy $ 45 Glen Moray N/A Deanston Virgin Oak $43 Laphroaig QC $81 Ledaig 10 (we don't have the one you showed) $56 Arran 10 $51 Ardmore Legacy $45

[@Gwhisky]

Count yourself lucky that you only have to pay $85 for that Laphroaig. I've heard from a few Canadians that it's over $100 in some places. Madness. Thanks for the price breakdown! 🥃

[@olivierbeltrami]

The Campbeltown Harbour from Glen Scotia would fit this list.

[@jasonwest9425]

Most of them are about $50. The Quarter Cask is $75 here. Whiskey prices are one of the few shortcomings of being in Canada.

[@Gwhisky]

Yeah prices in Canada are awful. Some people here are saying they pay over CAD $100 for Laphroaig QC. Wow. 🥃

[@jasonwest9425]

@@Gwhisky not surprised, I'm in Alberta which is a bit better than other places like Ontario. Cheers!

[@troybornhorst9173]

Speyburn 10 is good value IMO

[@kenwilson42]

Auchsetoshan ,$60 Canadian

[@lightplays2181]

Best whisky are gifed whisky ))) Geoff good job . Cheers !

[@Gwhisky]

Hah very true! 🥃

[@montesquieu5190]

Woooaaa nice ones for a budget, very good list 🥃🥃

[@juntaelee381]

This is such a timely topic and the follow up sounds even better! I only tried the Deanston and Ledaig from this list but I fully agree on them. But price talk is where it really hurts for us in South Korea because of the hideous alcohol taxes. Basically almost everything’s double the price of say European or Taiwanese market. In Korea, Tomatin Legacy is around 45-50USD, Deanston VO 50-60, Laphroaig QC 80-100, Ledaig RC 60-80. But the price gap gets even wider for age stated or older whiskys. Sigh… have you heard that Koreans completely loot liquor shops in Taiwan when they travel? Embarrassingly we’re kind of infamous for that!

[@Gwhisky]

Ouch! Yeah prices in Korea aren't great. Btw Koreans don't have that reputation more than anyone else. People from HK, Malaysia, Singapore, and the west all flock to the whisky shops here when they visit. No shame in that... great prices here! 🥃

[@lewisbh2092]

My favorite budget scotchs without an age statement would be Compass box Orchard house and Big peat (I know they are not single malt). Laphroaig quarter cask is now quite expensive in Canada unfortunately (around 90 CAD).

[@dmitrypiskarev4574]

This week I was looking for something to sip that I won't hate, but at the same time I won't lose a friend when he pours coke all over it. I ended up with a bottle of Tamnavulin Double Cask. It cost me 27$ (in Manila), and I could not be happier. Waaaay better than Tomatin. PS. Glen Moray is surprisingly nice btw.

[@JR-nl3mh]

Tomatin Legacy 30 € in Portugal

[@Koby616]

Naked malt - 24 euros my budget blended malt. Teeling small batch - 29. Arran 10 - 34 euros for budget aged one ledaig cost 54 euros here, but I can only find it in one shop Laphroaig qc 58 euros. Virgin oak 38-40 Tomatin 30 I live in Lithuania eastern Europe.

[@Gwhisky]

Interesting! Shame the Ledaig is so pricey there! I haven't had any Naked Malt in ages. I should revisit it. Cheers! 🥃

[@jamescostigan3721]

I love the Deanston Virgin Oak. I tried it because I am such a big fan of the Deanston 12. You can get the VO in Massachusetts from between $34 - $38. I'd pay more, but thankfully I don't have to.

[@Gwhisky]

Very fair price for a good whisky! 🥃

[@DileepB]

Massachusetts has some great prices. I shop at Gordon's when I visit Boston area.

[@jamescostigan3721]

@@DileepB You just need to do your price comparison research. Some places that have a great price on something, might have a much higher price on something else. And vice versa. But there are so many good shopping options in the area, that you can pretty much find anything at a decent price somewhere. The bargain pursuit is a fun part of the journey for me.

[@DileepB]

@@jamescostigan3721 I know what the prices are in WA and our huge liquor taxes. I can always find better deals at Gordon's during my brief visits to see my daughter.

[@themole2024]

The Classic Laddie is about 50 bucks in my neck of the woods. But worth every penny.

[@Gwhisky]

Great price! 🥃

[@xiamengbaby]

I prefer Lagavulin 8 year old which is also 48% abv to the Laphroaig Quarter Cask, and it's also around 5 bucks cheaper in my market (Chicago area). At $60 and $65, respectively, they're not exactly budget whiskies. That Rioja isn't available here, unfortunately.

[@Gwhisky]

Wow. The Laga 8 is like USD $20 higher than the Quarter Cask here in Taiwan. Amazing that's it's cheaper in Chicago. It's a much better whisky! 🥃

[@chentim1751]

Nice review again! Thanks

[@Gwhisky]

Hah thanks for watching, Tim! 🥃

[@primewhisky]

Tomatin 30GBP, Glen moray 23GBP, Deanston 34GBP, Laphroaig 44GBP, Ledaig 40GBP in Sweden

[@michaelwood3203]

Geoff. How about these. Talisker 10 £32. Ardbeg Wee Beastie £34. Cotswolds odyssey £30. Loch Lomond 12 Inchmoan £30. Glen Garioch Founders Reserve £30 ish. They may stand up well against your selection. I think list and attached comments make an excellent resource for discovering whisky.

[@Gwhisky]

Those are good ones. The Ardbeg and LL12 already under consideration for the age-stated list. I was sticking to NAS for this one. The Cotswolds is one that isn't sold here, unfortunately. The Ardbeg is slightly over the $35-ish cut-off price I put in, but it would be perfectly at home here. Love it! Good picks, Michael. You're right... the comments section is a great resource! Cheers. 🥃

[@Avalk9724]

Geoff, I liked your list of inexpensive whiskies, but that Laphroaig q.c. is certainly not inexpensive here in Finland. It costs in government controlled liquor shops about 63€ which is about 70 $ US. Finland has legalised robbery!

[@Gwhisky]

Yeah there are quite a few markets where the QC is expensive. Apparently the equivalent of €85 in Australia, over €70 in Canada. Absurd how much some markets are being asked to pay for it. 🥃

[@howardbecdove9780]

Lol. You started with whiskies under Au$100 and gradually climbed to Au$140 for the laphroaig Qtr cask in Australia. Afraid budget whiskies here, are those under Au$100, when they are discounted. Those that you mentioned that occasionally sell for under Au$100 are Ledaig, Deanston and classic laddie. When it comes to much cheaper whiskies, I liken them to coffee. I love coffee, but I’d rather drink tea than drink instant coffee.

[@Gwhisky]

From what I'm reading in the comments, it sounds like you guys have some of the worst prices in the world! 🥃

[@howardbecdove9780]

@@Gwhisky it’s what I call “saves you right for living on the other side of the world tax”

[@andyking894]

I guess my "budget-friendly" standards are a little higher than yours. I was able to pick up a Springbank 12 CS for no more than the cost of cheaper pair of running shoes...shoes that were used to run like hell out of the liquor store...

[@Gwhisky]

Show-off. 😂 Absolutely LOVE SB12. I'll be reviewing it at some point. Cheers Andy! 🥃

[@andrewbutler7681]

Glad to see the Glen Morays on the list. A couple of others I have picked up for bargain prices in the supermarket are Tamnavulin Double Cask and Tullibardine Sovereign - are they available over there?

[@Gwhisky]

They're around, but I've yet to try them. I've had a couple Tullibardines that didn't really impress, so I've been a bit shy to explore more from them. I suppose I should. Thanks for the recommendations, Andrew! 🥃

[@johnvuela1211]

Really helpful video, thank you once again. Deanston Virgin Oak and Ledaig Rioja are my choices from the list. Do you plan to do a list of age statement budget ones? Regards from Viet Nam.

[@Gwhisky]

That's a good idea for a follow up list. Something to consider. Cheers. 🥃

[@amoskerbs]

Super jealous you can get Ledaig Rioja for $36. It isn't available at all around Kansas City. I love Ledaig 10 which used to be $60 but has recently gone up to $70. Laphroaig quarter cask is also $70 around here now. Deanston Virgin Oak $40. Scotch prices just seem to keep going up and up here in the States unfortunately... The only thing on your list that's truly "budget" and available near me is the Glen Moray which has been a big "meh" from me. Maybe I'll give it another try. The Classic Laddie can be had for $57 which is still one of the best bang for bucks around here.

[@MMA-ALL-DAY]

I think this is an extremely good list! The Ledaig Rioja would probably have been my #1 choice too. It's the top choice for a budget dram in my wee whisky group. Everything seems to be roughly £8-£12 more in Scotland. I'd recommend Wee Beastie which is around the same price (in Scotland). That is an age statement though. It comes in at around £35 and is 47%abv.

[@Gwhisky]

Wee Beastie is a great budget dram. I didn't include it because it's somewhat pricier than the others here in Taiwan. Cheers Lee! 🥃

[@ashersspicekitchen5965]

Can you do your Top 5 or 10 scotches around $100???

[@guidodenys3307]

Glen Garioch is another underrated whisky at good price

[@Gwhisky]

That's an odd brand that I've never connected with. I should give them another shot. Cheers Guido! 🥃

[@thewhiskyenthusiast]

Nice list Geoff! Unfortunately, apart from the Tomatin we don't get any of these in our market in Turkey and the Tomatin is not competatively priced. If I was in my second home in England I'd definitely agree with the Ledaig and Deanston and then I'd add Cotswolds, Bunna Stiureadair, Arran Barrel Reserve and for shits and giggles as it's not considered 'malt' Loch Lomond Peated Single Grain :) Cheers 🥃

[@Gwhisky]

Seems I've really gotta try that Stiùireadair. Been recommended like 100 times in the comments. Barrel Reserve was a last minute addition in this video, it definitely deserved a spot! Costwolds is one that's not sold here, unfortunately. Hoping to try it soon. And yeah... that LL Peated Single Grain seems to be popular these days. One I'll have to look out for. Great picks, buddy! 🥃

[@stevengallery5561]

Buna Stiùireadair at the current £25 (Tesco) supermarket price should be considered.... but can't argue with your number 1 choice 🥃👍

[@Gwhisky]

I've yet to try the Bunna Stiùireadair, but it's been recommended a few times in the comments. I'll be on the lookout for it. Cheers Steven! 🥃

[@plamengeorgiev2284]

Naked , Glen Scotia Double cask...

[@numanuma20]

Rioja cask sounds interesting.

[@numanuma20]

I just check and you can’t find it under $30 in the USA.

[@teddyballgame25]

$74 for the Quarter Cask in PA~US

[@Gwhisky]

Ouch!

[@kalifatokata]

Here glenmoray 14€, although I prefer the port finish one,

[@Gwhisky]

Wow! Great price! 🥃

[@nealbruce5914]

Please try Glen Moray 18!

[@Gwhisky]

I'm trying to find it. Not easy to come by here. I'll grab it when I come across it! 🥃

[@neilrobertson6849]

Great list, but the only one of the "top 5" available in my state is the Laphroaig at $95 before tax. Yeah, I need to move to a better state.

[@Gwhisky]

Ouch! 🥃

[@OverlandDrams]

I was thinking Bruichladdich…. 😊

[@DileepB]

Like your top 3, but I would have put Monkey Shoulder on the list. Classic Laddie is $55 in the US.

[@Gwhisky]

I might consider a blend or blended malt list with the same concept, but I was stocking to Single Malt NAS for this one. Monkey Shoulder is good bang-for-buck! Oof, that's a pricy Laddie! 🥃

[@DileepB]

@@Gwhisky Duh, I missed that it was single malts. Glenlivet Illicit Still is under $40 here.

[@alexanderlotharson5634]

Germany here. (But I'm a cheapskate so I order from the Netherlands...) Glenglassaugh Torfa & Revival 31€ Glenglassaugh Evolution 38€ Ledaig Rioja Cask 38€ Ledaig 10 40€ Kilchoman Machir Bay 39€ Arran 10 31€ Talisker 10, Skye, Storm, Port Ruighe 31 - 38€ So, with the friendly help of our north-western neighbours we don't have to be rich to get drunk with style. Slainte!

[@kamahhl]

Omg! Classic laddie is about 65usd in my town lol

[@Gwhisky]

Yeah some markets are paying waaaay more for it. Absolutely tragic!

[@kamahhl]

@Gwhisky The best I've seen is Singleton 12yr for 35usd at a military base

[@steveno7058]

Under $40 for Laphroaig QC is incredible. Its $75 in Texas.

[@Gwhisky]

Ouch! Too much! 🥃

[@superodfx]

Glen moray Chardonnay au$50 laphroaig quarter cask au$140 Ledaig Rioja au$110 Deanston Voak au$90 ~Ardbeg 10 au$110 ~Craigellachie 13 au$105

[@Gwhisky]

Damn. I'd get into craft beer if I were you. 😂

[@superodfx]

@@Gwhisky ​​⁠ it’s too late for that, I’m one of you - one of the chosen

[@pcm3224]

I am from Hong Kong and well... 100% taxes for anything more than 30% abv. The cheapest single malt I can find here is Glenfarclas 10 which still cost me 38 USD.

[@Gwhisky]

Yeah Hong Kong prices are pretty high. 🥃

[@BadgerJeff]

Team glen pinky! Nice recommendations. I tend to stick away from lower prices scotches with US prices on the rise. Glenfiddich 12 used to be close to $35 in my area a couple of years ago. It's over $50 now. Bruchladdie is even $55-$60.

[@Gwhisky]

Yeah I keep hearing from Americans that the Laddie is expensive there. Too bad! 🥃

[@ashersspicekitchen5965]

Like the dry humor in your videos 😂

[@Gwhisky]

Hah thanks buddy! 🥃

[@bigwhiggler9614]

Laphroaig Quarter Cask for $36? Jesus, that's cheap. It's $65 where I am, which is $10 more than the 10 year. What do you pay for the 10?

[@Gwhisky]

Yeah we're super lucky here. Taiwan is cheaper than the UK for scotch in many cases. Taxes, etc. The 10 is roughly the same as the quarter cask, maybe USD $5 -10 less if you catch a deal. 🥃

[@TheReal_DeanD]

Laphroaig QC is $76 where I am and 10 year is $50. That’s a crime they’re charging $75 for Laphroaig 10 year.

[@bigwhiggler9614]

@@TheReal_DeanD Other way around. QC is $65, and the 10 is $55, so $10 cheaper.

[@bobdobolinaa]

45 euro on offer for the QC in the Netherlands now. 50 is normal nowadays but I bought mine for 35 2 years ago. Prices for the lower budget/quality whiskies have been creeping up the last 2 years. Often I find myself scanning the sales offerings with a wish list in mind.

[@TheReal_DeanD]

@@bobdobolinaa same here. 2 local stores on occasion will have sales and I'll see what I can get off my want or wish list. Often times it isn't much. Only 1 time Smoke Head High Voltage was on sale for 25% off.

[@bdwilcox]

Best bargain bangers (aka my nickname in college): Glencadam 10 Glencadam 13 Craigellachie 13 Loch Lomond 12 Old Pulteney 12 Arran 10 Deanston 12 Kilchoman Machir Bay Bruichladdich Classic Laddie Naked Malt formerly known as Naked Grouse (sherried blended malt) Compass Box Orchard Blend (blended malt) Scarabus (Total Wine) Islay budget peated single malt (probably only available in US) Kirkland (Costco) Islay budget peated single malt (probably only available in US) Ardbeg Wee Beastie 5 Islay budget peated single malt Bunnahabhain Stiùireadair Cotswolds English single malt Monkey Shoulder Mash Cut (blended malt from Total Wine probably only available in US)

[@Gwhisky]

Some great choices in there. Some will definitely be making appearances on my age-stated list. I'm also considering a blend list. Great stuff, thanks for sharing! 🥃

[@tomtomtommyism]

costwolds signature for £30 of offer in Uk supermarkets!

[@Gwhisky]

Sadly not sold here. Really want to try it! 🥃

[@tomtomtommyism]

@@Gwhisky nothing special in the grand scheme of things but super value for an integrity daily dram and fantastic for a 5-6 years old stuff... really looking forward to what they come up with in a few years!

[@nzmarco]

I saw the Laphroaig Select cask for nearly half the price of the 10. Never had this before. Is it any good?

[@sambrewster8556]

It will give you an idea of the Laphroaig flavour profile but it's definitely the poorest one of the range. I'd hold on for a deal on the 10 or QC.

[@nzmarco]

@@sambrewster8556 thank you

[@Gwhisky]

I'll second what Sam said. It's an introduction to the brand, but not a very interesting one. Not a fan, myself. 🥃

[@MrChristopherMolloy]

A nice list, and I'm very glad Monkey Shoulder didn't make this list; I don't like it at all. I'm not a fan of Deanston Virgin Oak either; there's just something rushed and off about it. Laphroaig Quarter Cask is not a budget whisky around my parts, infact it's $75; and I still haven't seen that Ledaig Rioja, so... Here's my under $40 list... ✌️ 5. Tomatin Legacy/Dualchas @43% (~$35) 4. Glencadam 10 (~$38) 3. Bunnahabhain Stiùireadair (~$35) 2. Scarabus (~$35) 1. Loch Lomond 12 (~$35)

[@Gwhisky]

Man like half of the comments for this video are encouraging me to try that Stiùireadair. Seems I'm missing out. Great list, Chris! 🥃

[@MrChristopherMolloy]

@@Gwhisky Yeah, it's pretty good, especially for the price. And you know what, upon watching your latest vid, I'd bump Glencadam 10 off my list and replace it with Benromach 10 (~$40); simply because the Benromach 10 has more character and is much more complex than the delicious, but simple Glencadam 10 ✌️

[@paulkukiel3725]

Laphroaig Quarter Cask is $106.20 here in Ontario 🇨🇦 🤯

[@paulkukiel3725]

$90.25 for the Bruichladdich Classic Laddie and $58.20 for Deanston Virgin Oak. The only 3 available in this market.

[@Gwhisky]

Lol and that's why I don't miss home. 🥃

[@paulkukiel3725]

@@Gwhisky I hear ya, Geoff. I guess

[@senyang2260]

Damn missing the time of Laphroaig Quarter Cask below $40.... it is long gone now. Believe it is almost doubled in price now in 2024. We all have been rubbed by the big spirit houses such as Diageo and Suntory saddly

[@beatroot_red]

Glen Scotia Double Cask 25$, Bushmills 10 27$, Tobermory 12 32$, Bunna 12 32$. Glenmorangie 10 30$, Omar Sherry 28$. Kavalan No. 1 28$ in the freaking supermarket. Man, Taiwan is a paradise for whisky drinkers. (Unless you're into independent bottlings. Then things will get very expensive very quickly)

[@Gwhisky]

Very true! For OBs we're definitely spoiled when it comes to pricing, comparatively. Cheers! 🥃

[@kellywellington7122]

Hmmm....Okay, here's from the Pacific Northwest...We don't have the Tomatin Legacy, but their 12 year sells for $46.95. The Glen Moray Port sells for $39.95. Deanston Virgin Oak retails at $41.70. Laphroaig QC jumps upto $74.95. The Ledaig Rioya is not available, but their 10 year sells for $74.55. (All prices US dollars.) I would nominate Glen Garioch Founder's Reserve, which clocks in at $47.50 in these parts. And, if you're going to include LapQC as a budget item, then Port Charlotte 10 comes in two dollars cheaper than LapQC. I'd jump for that much, much earlier.

[@Gwhisky]

I believe the Tomatin Legacy is called Dualchas in your market. It should be the same stuff. Great prices for most of those. It seems the Laphroaig is relatively pricey across the board in North America, which is a shame. And it seems the Ledaig just isn't sold at all in the US? Lol PC10 cheaper than Laphroaig QC? Easy choice there! 🥃

[@kellywellington7122]

@@Gwhisky Hmmm...The only Tomatin available in this market other than the 12, is an expression called Cuatro Fino. Ledaig is sold in the US, but in this state, only the 10 is available. Laphroaig has plenty of offerings in this market and their 10 sells at $62 US. Presently, I am preparing for a road trip across the Columbia River into Washington. Different state, different rules, different offerings, different finds. different prices. Rumor has it that both Springbank 10 and 15 are on offer just an hour's drive north.

[@Gwhisky]

@@kellywellington7122 Nice. Good hunting! 🥃

[@kellywellington7122]

And, a check today indicates the source is out of stock on all Springbanks. They still have the Aberlour A'Bunadh, which is no longer available at all in my state, the last two bottles having evidently sold in the recent weeks.

[@kellywellington7122]

Dualchas is indeed available across the river in Washington. It sells for $37 US.