7 brands that will get more popular...

[@maltontiger3144]

Great list Geoff, definitely excited to see a potential Glenglassaugh age statement. I would add Loch Lomond to that list, still think they go under the radar slightly and their whisky is improving a lot year on year. Cheers

[@Gwhisky]

You're right, Loch Lomond is making a lot more waves these days. Damn, totally didn't think about that one! Good pick Ramiz, they're definitely growing in popularity!

[@scnullois]

Woa! You can get that in Taiwan?

[@Gwhisky]

@@scnullois Yessir! 😊

[@dj4tune4]

Hi guys! I have mixed feelings about Loch Lomond... I mean, I tried their 18 year old expression and it was so disapointing (especially for the money I spent), but on the other hand, Inchmoan 12 year old is so delicious... my favourite currently:) I know, it's a separate line of products, but the same brand, isn't it?

[@dirkt6921]

You’re totally right: very underrated malt. Many reviewers have their prejudice because of the low quality of the brand in the past. Serge’s score on whiskyfun is ridiculous and even Ralfy’s review is too harsh as Most of the comments below state. It is craft presented, unchillfiltered and natural colour. And it is delicious, especially for its moderate price! Very good reccomandation.

[@sunryse111]

I have three of your seven choices in my collection - Bladnoch, Fettercairn and Aultmore. The other four were already on my shopping list. I promised you the other day that I was going to open the Aultmore - that got postponed, but I've brought it in from the garage and will be opening it tonight. I'll let you know what I think. Right now, I think you are absolutely spot on with your selection here, Geoff. Slainte!

[@Gwhisky]

Wow, thanks Victor! Fingers crossed on the Aultmore! 🥃

[@deeshmond]

Not a scotch but I’ve been really impressed with every dram/bottle I’ve had of Cotswolds so far. Thought their Founder Choice was particularly delightful. The best English whisky distillery imo

[@Gwhisky]

I'd have no problem including a non-Scottish distillery on this list. However I did omit young/new distilleries from the list because their popularity has nowhere to go but up. I've heard a lot of good things about Cotswolds. Unfortunately the brand isn't sold in my market yet. Looking forward to trying them! 🥃

[@jockmcallister]

Agreed

[@kellywellington7122]

@@Gwhisky Same here. I'm waiting for both Cotswold and Lakes to become available. I've heard good things about both.

[@BanjoSick]

Man, you are killing me over here in Norway. Love love love your format. Simple production (compared to FirstPhil Whisky at least!!), never too much bla bla, some funny jokes and great opinions! Thanks for the effort, hope you get some dough out of it!

[@Gwhisky]

I hope so, too. Himalayan rock salt is expensive. 😉

[@BanjoSick]

@@Gwhisky hahahaha, so true!

[@jokim8579]

Another great video! Thank you. I can't agree more with Bladnoch.

[@Gwhisky]

Thanks Jo. Bladnoch is beautiful stuff! 🥃

[@johnbarber4456]

Have to say when I saw your video discription the first that came to my mind was glenglassaugh, Royal Brackla and Glenallanchie (sorry for the spelling). The Royal Brackla 12 I LOVED. Can't go with you on the Bladnoch however

[@Gwhisky]

Yeah Bladnoch isn't for everyone, but I think they're doing really interesting things. Cheers! 🥃

[@johnbarber4456]

@@Gwhisky I had a bottle of 14/15 Adella(?). Enormous heavy glass bottle!! To give it another go what would you recommend?

[@pDram_parttimedrummer]

Interesting list! Concerning my choices you already mentioned the Speyburn, I would also name Glenturret since their rebranding, Loch Lomond and Tobermory/Ledaig while I totally agree with yout thoughts on GlenAllachie and Glenglassaugh! Good stuff, keep up the great work! 👍

[@Gwhisky]

The Glenturret probably does belong here. Sadly I've never tried it, but I'm sure it would fit right in. Loch Lomond is another one that's definitely on the up-and-up. As for Tobermory and Ledaig, I'd say they're pretty much established at this point, although there's plenty of room for more growth. Cheers pDram! 🥃

[@michaelwood3203]

Geoff, a summary like this is excellent and I am thinking you might like to follow this up with a brief review of the blended malt market and independent bottlers who are up and coming. I’d watch, probably!

[@Gwhisky]

Thanks Michael. I'll be touching on blends soon. A look at IBs would be interesting, too! Appreciate the suggestions! 🥃

[@sujoybroota481]

Great show. Wish you had talked about Glenfarclas and Old Pulteny. Great single malts. Also Longmorn

[@Gwhisky]

They're all fantastic single malts. I don't know if they're slated for a surge in popularity, though. Big fan of all three, though (especially Longmorn).

[@kellywellington7122]

Royal Brackla 12 sounds tasty indeed. It is also not available in Oregon.

[@jockmcallister]

Bladnoch- love it, always have. The bottle, don’t likey, ruins the look of my shelf! The rest of your suggestions all valid as well, GlenCadam seems to be another regaining traction in U.K. for quality. Longmorn is another one to watch, some cracking Indy bottles around at the min, although not sure much is being done on the OB side to push things.

[@Gwhisky]

Bladnoch and Longmorn are favourites of mine. I really hope we get some more Longmorn down the line. The Secret Speyside releases were delicious, as are almost all of their IBs I've tried. Bladnoch is a stunner! Hah I like the bottle! 😂 As for Glencadam, it's had praise heaped on it for what feel like years now. In my mind it doesn't feel like an up-and-comer anymore, but you could certainly make a case for it! Cheers! 🥃

[@murduk88]

Genius list and brilliant adding Kirkland/Costco as the honorable mention. The only addition I might suggest is Tomatin ... considering value/price, I'd suggest we not sleep on Tomatin. I've yet to buy a bad one, and if they can keep their prices down, they're going to grow in popularity IMO. Cheers!

[@Gwhisky]

Thanks Robert. Tomatin is getting more hype these days. You're right, it would have fit nicely here. Cheers! 🥃

[@dairyyang5457]

Great topic! will keep an eye on those brands. Looking forward to reviews of Bladnoch and Glenglassaugh! Cheers!🍺🍺

[@Gwhisky]

You'd love the Bladnoch buddy! Available at 橡木桶!

[@dairyyang5457]

Thanks for the info!

[@jimmyjazz4605]

Great video sir!

[@Gwhisky]

Thanks Jimmy! 🥃

[@CharlesOffdensen]

I have a list of things that I want to try. Thanks to your videos, the list grows. Bladnoch and Glenglassaugh are there for example. Some more brands that I want to try. If I can find some of the new Glenturret bottles I will buy one. The indi bottlers are offering cool bottles for very competitive prices (with craft presentations and everything). Berry Bros & Rudd, Carn Mor, The Red Cask Co, all brands that people are talking more and more about.

[@Gwhisky]

Yeah there are loads of great IBs out there. I love IBs myself, although I don't tend to review them. Bladnoch is already extremely interesting stuff, and I think Glenglassaugh is on its way. Glenturret is something I'm 99% sure I would have included on this list if it was actually available in Taiwan. I've never tried them! Cheers Charles! 🥃

[@CharlesOffdensen]

@@Gwhisky Yes, that is the problem with Glenturret, it's hard to find outside of the UK. Cheers.

[@Alex-pr6zv]

Craigellachie 17 is really good value, no chill filtration and no added colourant.

[@Gwhisky]

It's excellent! 🥃

[@dramman-onlydramnodrama4845]

Great list G man! Your subs have it covered off pretty well, but one that wasn’t mentioned and that I think may still get bigger and bigger is Ledaig. If they increase distribution and continue to add some special releases and age statements (maybe a 15) I believe they could start to take on Islay as a serious contender.

[@Gwhisky]

Ledaig is a favourite of mine! I mentioned at the beginning that Tobermory would be front and centre on this list a few years back. In my mind, they've already made it to the big time. But I suppose there's always room for more growth. If any brand deserves success, it's Ledaig. Good call Dram Man!

[@dramman-onlydramnodrama4845]

@@Gwhisky Also maybe Ancnoc?

[@Gwhisky]

@@dramman-onlydramnodrama4845 They've been around for ages, so I didn't consider them. But yeah, apparently we can expect some changes from them soon, according to a recent Aqvavitae VPub. Love AnCnoc!

[@BillyBombastic]

Really like your videos mate.

[@Gwhisky]

Thanks so much! 🙏

[@Balkonwhisky]

Hello, Geoff(?) I would definitly go for Glenglassaugh. I had the Peated Port and loved it. Sad that its discontinued. Thanks for your Opinion Greetings from Germany

[@Gwhisky]

My pleasure! I'm looking forward to the age-stated Glenglassaugh myself! 🥃

[@Rbs6]

keep up the good work, my boy

[@Gwhisky]

Thanks Andrew. Will do! 🥃

[@RABSTRAINS]

Outstanding List! Thank You!

[@Gwhisky]

Thanks! 🥃

[@teachergregory291]

Bladnoch & GlenAllachie are favorites on my shelf

[@Gwhisky]

Fantastic whiskies! 🥃

[@hordeum-vulgare]

We could add Glen Garioch, and Deanston? I wish we could include Bowmore in this list: a great distillate, just not bottled right as an OB.

[@Gwhisky]

I'd argue that Deanston is already one of the biggest names in whisky. Glen Garioch is getting some more chatter recently, I'll grant you that. I'm not sure that Bowmore's popularity is taking off these days, although it seems their fancy Aston Martin line is a hit. Interesting picks!

[@humbertovalbuena5837]

Glen garioch have to be in that list!!!

[@RalphMettier]

Totally with you on GlenGlassaugh. Their PX finish is one of the best sherried scotches I've ever tasted. As for Aultmore, yes it's solid, but I don't see that much potential. Nice bottle and lable design though.

[@Gwhisky]

I don't think Aultmore will get huge, but it's getting more attention and it was extremely obscure just a few years back. The Glenglassaugh sounds fantastic! 🥃

[@BanjoSick]

Balblair comes to mind! That stuff is great IMO.

[@Gwhisky]

Yeah I thought about Balblair. I've only tried the new 15 but I'm loving it. I l9ved the vintages, too, though. Bit torn on that one. But yeah, loads of potential. 🥃

[@TheReal_DeanD]

In my area Glenglassaugh already dug themselves a hole. Some stores took chances on them years ago but non of their product moved. So to this day bottles from 2018 or earlier are still on shelves. Those store owners don't want to chance it again getting their new releases. Similar with Royal Brackla. I haven't seen any newer bottlings. Mind blown on Bladnoch. This Scotch experts in my local store recommend the Bladnoch 11 year. Some other brands to check out are M&H Whiskey Distillery and Penderyn seems to have changed their marketing.

[@Gwhisky]

Yeah plenty of shops here still have the older Glenglassaugh stuff, too. I had to seek out a newer bottling. But I think with the age statements coming soon there will likely be a resurgence of interest. The Bladnoch 11 is fantastic stuff. I'll be reviewing it very soon. Recommended! I've also got two M&H reviews to get to eventually. Can't say I've had any Penderyn recently. I've noticed a lot of the fancy new packaging though.

[@cbalbino11]

Nice list bro! I visited Edinburgh 2 months ago and tried lots of new expressions, including some of those in your list! Great stuff! I would mention Lindores as an underrrated and unknown distillery that could take place at the whisky scene in a few years! Have you tried any from them?

[@Gwhisky]

Thanks Christian! Yeah I've tried Lindores. However, I intentionally left very young/new distilleries off of the list because they have nowhere to go but up. Lindores is making good stuff, though. I'd agree it has a bright future! 🥃

[@stejskyn]

Great list Geoff, but look out also for Loch Lomond, Glencadam, Deanston and Glen Scotia ;-)

[@Gwhisky]

Thanks Radek. Loch Lomond would certainly have fit on this list, but as far as I'm concerned the other brands you named here have already "made it" as major players on the whisky scene. 🙂🥃

[@martindouwe6099]

Good picks for sure, but personally I would add Glenturret to it.

[@michaelmanganiello8209]

Yeah, Glenturret was going to be my recommendation as well. I've already picked up a few backups of the 12 and 15. Very similar to and perhaps better than the older MaCallan bottling's from years past. For what it's worth, Bob Delgarno is at the helm there. He spent over 30 years at MaCallan before being forced out. Pick up a bottle if you can, G.

[@Gwhisky]

Trust me guys, I've been dying to try their new line since it came out. No distribution in Taiwan as of yet. 😒

[@michaelmanganiello8209]

@@Gwhisky They're just starting to make their way to us in the States however, I ordered mine online from Europe as it was a lot cheaper. Do the European online whisky sites ship to you in Taiwan, G?

[@Gwhisky]

@@michaelmanganiello8209 They do, for quite a hefty shipping fee. Not to mention border taxes. Still, I've thought about it.

[@axelvonwu2378]

Good video and good list. Couldn’t agree more with Glen- and Craigallachie. I would’ve thrown Glen Garioch & Kilkerran in the mix. I’ve yet to be disappointed with any of their releases. I guess Bunnahabhain could be considered as big enough already but I just love everything they do too.

[@Gwhisky]

Oh yeah, Bunna is already huge. Good pick with Glen Garioch. They are getting more attention these days. As for Kilkerran, anything Springbank related sells out almost instantly, at least in my market. In my book that's already peak popularity. Hah.

[@Atom_coins]

Sanks for the interesting information, your number 1 very interesting

[@Gwhisky]

My pleasure! 🥃

[@Nezukochouchou]

Hi Geoff, nice list, except for Glenglassaugh which I don't like. I would replace by Glentauchers.

[@Gwhisky]

I'm not a big fan of theirs, either. This isn't a list of favourites. I simply think there will renewed interest in them very soon with the age-stated line. I haven't heard any chatter about Glentauchers, but I'd love to see them pick up some momentum as well. Interesting pick, cheers William! 🥃

[@kellywellington7122]

I've been pleasantly surprised by Glen Garioch, which has been in relative obscurity for us. I don't know where I'd heard it (Ralfy, perhaps) but I picked it up on a whim and liked the 12 so much I went back and got a Founder's Reserve, which I've yet to open.

[@Gwhisky]

Glad you're enjoying it. It's a really popular one that I just never warmed to for some reason... 🥃

[@gareth630]

Great to see you left that crap distillery on Mull out of this debate ;-) For you're info on whisky exchange Glenglassaugh 10 yr sherry cask 713 bottles £90.95. Love the Fetter 16 and 13 Craigelliachie both great drams. Glencadam10 and 15 both great value.

[@Gwhisky]

Hah that crap distillery from Mull is no longer an up-and-comer in my book. Already reached superstar status! Glencadam could have been included, but it feels like it's been a darling of the whisky community for years already. Glad you enjoy the Fettercairn and Craigellachie. Shame the shipping from TWE is so high, that Glenglassaugh would be of great interest, as would many other bottles! Cheers Gareth! 🥃

[@adrianwiuk]

Will be interesting to see how Torabhaig take on the mightly Talisker once they have some double-digit aged statements to offer

[@Gwhisky]

That'll definitely be interesting. I've still never tried anything from them!

[@allanwhittle3041]

Mr G Good list sir , apart from Royal Brackla 👹can’t cope with that ..syrup 🤣 Anyway Here’s a few to add ..not many cos ya can just go crazy and list dozens , so I’ll keep it short *Glen Turret 12 “ I bought a case of 12 of the 2020 Maiden release , still have 3 or 4 left , now this stuff is absolutely fantastic !!..in truth the 2021 release is not much diff but I loved the 2020 so went a bit mad , delicious stuff ..15 year old also good , but whilst I have the 2020 ..12 year it’s not worth the diff Glen Scotia Love the brand ..All of em 🤣 But the 16 year old Ltr only available via travel retail in the Uk , is for me the absolute best of the bunch , Victoriana , 15 year .12 year seasonal ..All good , but not as good as the 16 year Caramel , walnuts , toffee ..long long finish ..very easy to drink , so again ,when I fly , I stock up !! Just wish it was available via normal retail but it’s not . Lastly AnCnoc ..love this brand , yet to try the 12 ( which you liked ) but the 18 and 24 are fabulous stuff . If you had a way of sending me something interesting in return without one or both of us copping for taxation / duty , I’d send you one of my beloved Glenturret 12..2020 as a swap ? And that’s going some as I love the whisky Great channel G 👍

[@Gwhisky]

Thanks Allan! I've seen that Glen Scotia 16 at a local shop here. It always piques my interest, but it's a good £25 higher than the standard 15. So far I haven't been able to pull the trigger-all that money for one extra year in the cask (granted, it's a 1L bottle). Really hope you get the chance to try AnCnoc 12. Despite the low abv, one of my favourite casual sippers. You know it's killing me that the new Glenturret line isn't sold here yet. I've been itching to try it for ages. I do appreciate the offer for a swap, but sadly I've had difficulty in the past with sending/receiving from the UK, so I'd rather not risk it for either of us. Genuinely appreciate the offer, sir. Cheers my friend! 🥃

[@olivierbeltrami]

Bought a bottle of the Fettercairn 16 around 2010 and I could never get into it (ended up slipping it into the open bar at an end of the year Whisky club dinner). Tasted very very weird (and I like strong characterful whisky). Rubber, decay, molasses. Like a Springbank gone “Mr Hyde”. How are the newer bottlings ?

[@Gwhisky]

I never tried the older stuff, but the newer ones are very modern and engineered, so you won't have any of the grimey notes you described. They change the cask formula year-to-year, so you can choose which cask breakdown you're more interested in. The two I've had were very good! 🥃

[@olivierbeltrami]

Sounds like the remake of Ledaig 10 which was a real rubber liquid before they rebranded it in the early 2010s with the current look.

[@lightplays2181]

Good list Geoff ))) Kanpai !

[@Gwhisky]

Cheers Light! Ganbei! 🥃

[@stevenj3152]

I agree with the Glenglassaugh, after giving their rare cask release a go a couple of years ago, its something I look out for each year. Based on the quality of those releases a new age statement should go down well. Another one I might add to the list would be Glencadam, they do good stuff anyway, and its probably undersold but someone there has been paying attention to what Arran have been doing with their releases over the last few years and a conscious effort has been made to emulate some of the cask usage for their more recent releases. If they keep the quality up and the prices reasonable it should get some new levels of attention.

[@Gwhisky]

For be Glencadam is a brand that's already "made it." Perhaps not known to the casual consumer, but it's already a darling within the whisky community. I can't say I've been keeping a close eye on their newer releases, though. I'm curious to see what an Arran-inspired Glencadam tastes like. Sounds delicious!

[@richardagnew4959]

Loved the curve ball at the end! :). I'll have to go to Gatineau for that one. :). I love lists like these and find them so useful. Thanks again, big man. :) Lindores Abbey in Fife, Scotland, might (?) be considered an up and comer too? If you see it in Taiwan, give it a punt.

[@Gwhisky]

Thanks Richard! I've tried Lindores. Good stuff! But I intentionally left out new/younger distilleries because they'd probably dominate the whole list if I included them. Cheers buddy! 🥃

[@leofrog9433]

nice review good looking

[@Gwhisky]

Hah cheers Leo. 😎

[@davidowen2834]

Hi Geoff, one distillery that no whisky nerd would look at let alone buy a few years ago is Loch Lomand, many years ago there was only the original and the 18, both bad, but now boy are they bringing out decent stuff, and so many variations 👍. So many distilleries are changing their attitudes now and bringing out craft presented whiskies, because it is the way forward and if they don’t they might be left behind. Actually it’s been quite a while since I bought a 40 %, chill filtered, coloured whisky. Could go on but won’t. Cheers Geoff a great list and enjoyable video, slàinte.

[@Gwhisky]

Hi David, you're not the first one to suggest LL! It's sorely missing from this list. I certainly should have included it here. Great suggestion. Cheers buddy! 🥃

[@benmarnoch4111]

Those plucky upstarts at Bacardi and Brown Forman will be delighted with your list! I’d like to add Glenturret to the mix for up and comers. The three bottles I’ve had since the take over by Lalique have all been excellent. Heavy Sherry influence and over priced for a 12yo but the quality of the casks they are using is undeniable. Maybe reminiscent of the Billy Walker model, but they do have a large warehouse full of mature whisky to develop a core range from, so I’d go for these to be tried by yourself if you can get your hands on one, would be good to get your opinion G.

[@Gwhisky]

I'd absolutely love to try them. I'm almost certain they'd be on the list if I was at all familiar with them. I do hope they make it to Taiwan soon, I'm desperate to try the new line! 🥃

[@011humphrey]

Silkie irish whiskey is also doing great stuff, butt that's my opinion 😂. Great list.

[@Gwhisky]

Never tried it. I'll be on the lookout! 🥃

[@WhiskyLock]

Nice list. It's certainly getting harder to find 'hidden gem' distilleries these days. It seems like the average whisky enthusiast is so clued up now and word travels so fast that whenever a distillery starts putting out quality stuff it's not long before they get noticed... and it becomes unavailable ;-)

[@Gwhisky]

I wouldn't call these brands hidden gems. Some, maybe. This is more a list of brands that I think are going to get bigger, regardless of my opinion of them. Not necessarily huge, but seemingly coming out of obscurity to become bigger than they have been. I'm not sure any of these are at risk of being bought up. Not yet, anyway. 😉

[@aframs-cctaf-rams-cct6424]

Glenglassough’s evolution is delicious. One of my fav NAS, along w victoriana and the Kilkerran WIP

[@Gwhisky]

I only had a sample of the modern Evolution, but it was very nice. I'll have to grab a bottle at some point. Looking forward to seeing what they do with age statements! 🥃

[@edwinchan09876]

It’s hard to get lowland bottles in Asia. I’m not sure why…

[@Gwhisky]

There are some around, but they're certainly not as popular as the stuff from other regions! 🥃

[@eyemallears2647]

Also yes, I need the engagement 😂

[@adriancano3991]

To my surprise Chattanooga whiskey is killing the game with their bottled in bond, Founders and Single Barrel

[@Gwhisky]

Never heard of them. Sounds interesting! 🥃

[@catnapgee5357]

What are your thoughts on this. I ordered a few kilkerran 12s (btw, just about to check out your review on it!) and it didn't come with its case. Like wtf. Isn't the case part of the deal? I'm not really a collector for the 2ndary, but I did get one extra in case (pardon the unintentional pun) .. but it has no case! You think that would effect collectability? And .. would you care if you didnt get a case? I mean, I'd think you would if we're talking a Kavalan, but for a basic case. I feel duped! Yes .. I'm gonna cry about it! 😢

[@Gwhisky]

Yeah collectors want cases. Kilkerran 12 has gone up in price because of the Springbank craze (at least here it has), but I don't think it will appreciate too much in value, as it's a wide release in continuous production. I wouldn't worry too much about the case. If it bothers you, you could reach out to the retailer and see if they can get one. But considering you said one's for drinking anyway, I wouldn't sweat it. 😉

[@catnapgee5357]

​@@Gwhisky I will take that advice and reach out to Kilkerran. Thanks! Btw, in the Kilkerran 12 vid, you mentioned how Campbeltown is not your favourite region and Springbank does not make your favourite style of whisky, but in another vid I think you mentioned how Springbank was your absolute favourite 10. Is the 10 the exception for you? I had the 15 and it was amazing! But it was the old black box, whereas, apparently I've heard there can be batch variation for the newer 15s ... which the mere thought of is depressing. I've never had the 12CS but I think I'd absolutely love it even though I wasn't crazy about the 10. It was a small factor re: the 10 that kept me from loving it, and I'd imagine that would be fixed in the 12. You know how it goes, we get experienced enough that we can kinda tell how any kind of change will make the whisky. It's a good problem to have!

[@Gwhisky]

@@catnapgee5357 Yeah I kind of came around on Springbank. That Kilkerran wasn't a favourite and I'd just finished a couple bottles of sub-par Campbeltown offerings and I was kind of bashing them. I have good reviews and bad ones. I actually love Campbeltown. Hah.

[@catnapgee5357]

@@Gwhisky Interesting. Well, once I see Springbanks in an Alberta store to order, im gonna go nuts on them! Just hope I didn't waste money on that killkeran 12, though may seem to love it. I wonder if it's the hype they're tasting. Guess I'll find out eventually. Fyi, I contacted the merchant, and they said that Kilkerran 12 no longer has tubes. I'm speechless! What the heck, is it a bourbon?

[@Gwhisky]

@@catnapgee5357 I think you'll probably enjoy it. Most people seem to. I even picked up a second bottle, which I haven't popped yet, because I'm not sure if I gave it a fair shot. As for the no tube situation, I think I'd actually heard something about that. There are a few brands that are moving in a more eco-friendly direction and ditching the tubes altogether.

[@EuropaWill]

Tomatin could have been on this list. I think they are a value brand with excellent quality that isn't in the spotlight. 43% for the NAS Dualchas/Legacy and also for the Tomatin 12 which is a sherry bomb, both very solid entry level single malts in a world of insanely priced scotch.

[@Gwhisky]

Tomatin does seem to be getting more love these days. The Legacy was nice, and I've got the 18 on the go, which is also good. Overall you're right, more chatter about them. Cheers Will! 🥃

[@alitayebi1194]

How about the Irish brand Waterford?

[@Gwhisky]

They're good, and definitely on the up-and-up. However, I intentionally excluded young/new distilleries because they would dominate this list. I'm only covering established brands that seem to be coming out of obscurity here. But yeah, they'd definitely fit otherwise! Good pick! 🥃

[@eviltrain24]

I really thought you would cut-away to tennis balls during the Craigellachie bit but alas...

[@Gwhisky]

😂

[@giorgiochernyshev2608]

Hi Geoff! First of all I would like to thank you for your informative, helpful and regular reviews. I would like to take this opportunity to ask you a question about the Glenglassaugh Torfa, since you are talking about Glenglassaugh. From your point of view, this whisky may be of interest to a non-novice as a first acquaintance with this distillery? And what can you say about it in general? Once again I express my gratitude to you! Slàinte Mhath!

[@Gwhisky]

Thanks Giorgio. Thanks for watching. To be honest, the brand isn't outstanding, but it is improving. Considering they're craft presented and have stocks that are reaching maturity, I think they have the potential to become a solid brand. The modern Torfa and Evolution may not blow you away, but they're both solid and enjoyable whiskies imo. Worth trying, but make sure you get a recent bottling (within the last two years if you can). Cheers. 🥃

[@j.k.8537]

Ah yes, Kirkland single malts! I was able to snag 2X 24 year olds, 2X 20 year olds and a bottle of the islay last year. So far the 20 is my fave ;) 85$ for the 20 and 97$ for the 24…….can’t go wrong That’s Canadian dollars too ;)

[@Gwhisky]

Great value buys! 🥃

[@forwork2601]

You forgot Glenfiddich. They don’t get the love they deserve. Try their 12Y and 18Y. Simply the best!

[@johnbarber4456]

I agree that Glenfiddich is underated. But as the biggest selling single malt whisky I don't know if it fits into the category whisky on the up

[@rossfryer3902]

Look out for that Johnnie Walker … it’s an up-and-comer

[@leofrog9433]

how does Kirkland age the whiskies so long and change so cheap, is it poor casks? what's the catch.. or I should say, whats the cask?

[@Gwhisky]

Good question. Shame it's a mystery. As for the price, I suppose they just make less profit off of the bottles because they aren't scrambling to price match the overpriced single malt scene. I'm sure the profit is still substantial, simply not as exorbitant as most other brands.

[@leofrog9433]

@@Gwhisky now I wanna find a Kirkland!

[@MMA-ALL-DAY]

When my friends and I went to Speyside last year the dark horse was Benriach. They'd recently rebaranded so maybe a good consideration for a list like this. The tasting we did there was the best of any we did in Speyside, and the staff there were really excellent.

[@Gwhisky]

I'm a fan of the new Benriach line. The brand does get overlooked sometimes and they can (but don't always) make fantastic whisky. Tbh it was a consideration. Great suggestion, Lee!

[@traviskingdon3636]

Yo Geoff….no Glenturret?

[@Gwhisky]

I'm sure it would be here if I could actually find the new line in Taiwan. I've been dying to try it forever and I still haven't found a single bottle of the new stuff here yet...

[@traviskingdon3636]

@@Gwhisky I have only tried the standard 12 Maiden Release but it is exquisite. The profile is very different and I think it tastes older than 12 as well. I would like to try the 15 at some point but it is double the price! Keep up the good work man.

[@Gwhisky]

@@traviskingdon3636 Yeah I have no doubt they're amazing whiskies. I've yet to hear a bad word spoken about them. Good luck hunting down the 15!

[@Nikolay_Nikolov]

I'm not sure about Bladnoch. They had their moment of praise and glory with the 10 yo several years ago, but everything they have released since has not been so warmly accepted. NAS releases with stupid names, beefy prices and ugly bottles don't help either :) Glenallachie will get more popular only if Billy Walker don't retire or sell the distillery before release of any spirit distilled after 2017. Otherwise we'll be left with the current expressions which are 100% cask play and zero distillery character. Of all the brands in the list I have the best access to Glenallachie and their core-range is superbly priced. All they need is to keep the price/quality ratio until Billy Walker era distillate gets ready for bottling. I'm not sure about Aultmore and Craigellachie growing popularity too. Yes, provided they don't mess the quality up and keep the prices in check, they will be popular among whisky geeks. As high quality as it is, Aultmore remains blend fodder matured in refill ex-bourbon casks. Not exactly crown pleaser. No cask strength releases, next to no sherry casks, no intricate finishes. Also, both brands are slightly overpriced for what they are IMHO. I love Aultmore, but somehow I don't see their next release flying off the shelves. I'd add two entries to the list: Benromach has literally one step to go in order to reach absolute glory. I mean Springbank-like popularity. They just have to up the ABV of their core-range to 46%. Tomatin has great potential. They have very fine distillate which can be bottled after both moderate and heavy cask influence. They just need to up their core-range a bit. The 12 yo namely needs to be buffed in ABV and cask make up and they need to put some 14-16 yo core expression out besides the 14 Port cask finish. Quality is there, capacity is there, prices are reasonable. The brand needs just a little bling :) Cheers!

[@Gwhisky]

I should clarify that I don't expect all these brands to be huge. I'm not looking for the next Arran here. I'm just saying they're coming out of obscurity and starting to see some broader interest, and that it's likely to continue. I actually agree about Glenallachie. To be honest, I'm not a huge fan of theirs. Very loud sherry and not a whole lot behind it, imo. I do like the 12 and the 10 is decent, but far from favourites. Both Aultmore and Craigellachie were black holes of interest a few years ago. We're seeing a surge of interest in both brands. I agree, I don't think Aultmore has the heft to make it big, but Craigellachie might. I do hope they give us more expressions. I totally agree that some cask strength Bacardi stuff is sorely missing. Benromach is excellent. They've arguably already made it big, but I'm sure they'll continue to grow. They'd certainly be a good fit here. Tomatin does seem to be garnering some interest. I've yet to be impressed, but I haven't explored too much from them just yet. I'll have to keep an eye on them. Cheers!

[@Yong_Goh]

Ardnamurchan set for world domination!

[@Gwhisky]

Definitely. They'd probably have been #1 on this list if I was including new distilleries!

[@glennandersen4748]

Loch lomond have a lot of good whisky

[@Gwhisky]

True! They should have been included. Thanks Glenn! 🥃

[@BertelsFotografie]

Kilkerran?!

[@Gwhisky]

Kilkerran is already sold out across the board in my market. Anything Springbank related is no longer an up-and-comer in my book. But yes, their popularity will definitely continue to grow. Brilliant stuff! 🥃

[@薛聖儒-g7o]

Where is Aberlour!!!!!!!!!!!

[@Gwhisky]

Is Aberlour getting more popular these days? I haven't noticed...

[@pl3317]

Aberlours best product was the Abunadh when it could be bought for 45 Euros (about 7 years ago). The price has doubled and quality has deteriorated.

[@saevar69]

timestamps would be great my friend

[@Gwhisky]

Added!

[@matttopcat9677]

I wish Costco in the UK would sell those aged statements 😭

[@Gwhisky]

Shame they don't. They're hard to come by and get snatched up fast here in Taiwan, but they do come around sometimes. 🥃

[@matttopcat9677]

@@Gwhisky I'll keep a look out 👍🏻

[@easyelras]

Wow! Royal Brackla 12 is really expensive for a 12 year old...

[@Gwhisky]

Yeah their prices are holding them back. Good whisky, but they're trying too hard to be premium.

[@easyelras]

Bought a Speyburn 10 instead which was half the price 😃👍

[@royn8032]

LOL did someone really write "You suck"....Must have been a joke

[@Gwhisky]

Hah not quite so bluntly, but I've had a couple trolls leave comments before. To be fair, they're an extreme minority. Most ppl in the comments and in the whisky community in general are super nice and supportive.

[@steveno7058]

Dalmore. Can’t get any worse, its only up from here on out. 😂

[@Gwhisky]

Hah they may be the butt of our jokes, but they're wildly popular!

[@eviltrain24]

Crap. Bladnoch as your #1. shush. shush. shush! lol The top commentor for Ralfy's Bladnoch 11 whisky review was Bladnoch themselves and they've acknowledged the magic of their younger distillate and have a hint or two to say about their future plans...

[@Gwhisky]

Hah it does feel like a well-kept secret. I should probably stock up on a few more bottles before I start screaming out praise. Man that 11 is a beauty, though. 🥃

[@byungwooyoon2588]

Liked your finishing ment: give me all your moeny on patreon.

[@Gwhisky]

😂

[@algrimthestrong]

The true mystery is (still) and will always be, “craft presented”…perhaps you’ll explain that someday.

[@Gwhisky]

46, ncf, natural colour

[@algrimthestrong]

@@Gwhisky - What is the genesis of that term?

[@Gwhisky]

@@algrimthestrong Been hearing Ralfy say it for years.

[@jasoncoates1835]

The only problem I have with GlenAllachie is that it's terrible. Billy inherited a bunch of third-tier blendfiller and proceeded to hatesex a bunch of overactive, mediocre sherry into it. The 12 in particular is godawful. I hope it blows up, though - keeps the hypebeast set off the good stuff. ;)

[@Gwhisky]

Hah, tell us how you really feel! I'm not a huge fan myself, but I do like the 12 as a "dessert whisky." The 10s are nice, although way overhyped and overpriced at the moment. 🥃

[@leofrog9433]

Benromach and kilchoman beat all these imo

[@Gwhisky]

I'd agree. But neither is coming out of obscurity like these ones. This isn't a list of favourites, it's brands that are starting to/going to pick up steam. I suppose a case could be made for Benromach... Cheers Leo! 🥃

[@leofrog9433]

@@Gwhisky true. I had their new branded 15 a while back and it was A - MAY - ZING

[@Gwhisky]

@@leofrog9433 Love that one!

[@lewisduffy675]

Shhhhhhh! ;)

[@Gwhisky]

😬

[@kellywellington7122]

I have never tasted any GlenAllechie because they are all hideously overpriced in my market.

[@Gwhisky]

Damn that sucks. The price for GA seems all over the place in different markets. 🥃

[@scnullois]

LOL u look like a different person crying!

[@Gwhisky]

Hah that's actually a Snapchat filter. 😂

[@johneonas6628]

Stick to Bourbon

[@Gwhisky]

Lol wut? No.

[@johneonas6628]

@@Gwhisky do your research and find out what the common scot drinks in scotland. Whiskey is not for yuppies.

[@haigapelian3426]

You are a dingus. Lighten up.

[@barrysmale8060]

​@@johneonas6628I'm Scottish. And I'm common. Ask me anything.