Hi all and apologies in advance for the repeated question...

[waddy256]

Hi...

I know you all probably have better things to do than answer the same kinda question around this time, but I too would very much appreciate some present buying advice.

My dad is a great fan of Single malt scotch and I usually try to pick up a bottle as a present for him. In the past I have tried to buy him a different make each time but I have now run out of options from the slim pickings from supermarkets and off-licences in my region (Lncashire), so i figured I would turn to the internet.
Not knowing much about whiskey (single malt or otherwise) I am a little worried about what would be a good buy and what wouldnt, which is where I am hoping you all would come in to help.

Ideally I am looking for something around the £50-70 mark. I used to think that 'the older the better' as I seem to recall him really enjoying Chivas Regal 18yo (but I could well be wrong). What would be a good "distinctive" bottle in this price range ? ....Something that would be a little off the beaten track from the standard choices.

I have seen a 40yo speyside finest on an auction site which looks nice but am aware that this may soar well out of my price range and may not be any good anyway.

Can anyone take pity on my ignorance ?

All advice is gladly welcomed,

Many thanks for your time and best wishes,

Richard.

[Big Mac]

Hi Richard

I would highly recommend any of these as they are all superb whiskies

Macallan 18 year old sherry wood not the fine oak
Highland Park 18 year old
Balvenie 17 Year old Madeira Cask
Glenfarclas 15, 21 or 25 year old (the 30 year old is also superb but a little over your budget, usually just over £100 i think)

Merry Christmas

Mac

[Crane]

Hi Richard

Whisky does improve with age but after a certain point you are paying for the rarity of the whisky more than anything else. For your budget the Highland Park, Macallan and Glenfarclas whiskies Mac mentions would make great gifts which any whisky drinker would like and if your Dad hasnt had any of these before he will love them as they are amongst the best whiskies you will find in this price range. If i was to pick out 1 bottle i would recommend the sherried Macallan 18 year as a great Christmas gift, the Whisky Exhange shop has the 1991 Macallan 18 for £68.99 at the moment, i know as i got myself a bottle for enjoying on Christmas day.

All the best

Crane

[Gregor]

Mac the Glenfarclas 30 is a great dram and a good price for a whisky of this age. Its rich fruit cake taste certainly makes it a lovely Christmas night dram. I have never had the Glenfarclas 21, is it worth a try?

[Big Mac]

Hi Gregor

The Glenfarclas 21 is a good dram but i prefer the 15 to the 21, i think it is a more full bodied richer dram but both are very good, just my preference, i wouldnt say one is better than the other. The 30 year old is particularly good and a great price for a 30 year old whisky.

Mac