Daniel forgot one very important tip when teaching her how to try whiskey: after the "hot coffee sip" suggestion, it is important that you keep your mouth closed after the sip. Letting air in makes the alcohol 'burn" feeling. I've introduced several people to whiskey using these two steps and have had great success.
Another thing I suggest to new people when nosing is to open their mouth and breath half through the mouth and half through the nose. It softens the ethanol hit to the nose.
Woodford Reserve Bourbon! I had always kind of liked whiskeys but they had always been cheaper stuff that you would find at college (or younger) parties. But then a buddies dad let me try his Woodford, and his Oban, and his Blanton's. Been a whiskey man at heart ever since.
I feel like Canadian whisky would actually be the best for beginners who don't like "oakiness". There are no regulations on which barrel Canadian whisky has to be aged in, so beginners can try different Canadian whiskies that have been aged in different barrels to find one they like. I also feel like there's more variety in Canadian whisky than most other whiskies when it comes to flavors/mash bill, so it's a good category to explore all on its own
@sandir toukaev lol Crown Royal ain't the only Canadian whiskey. That's like saying that Bourbon isn't a good type of whiskey for beginners because Jim Beam is trash
@@elieddy4277 what's annoying about that is people always pick the (not quite) bottom shelf anything when trying it for the first time, i understand people don't want to spend a lot if you're not going to drink it all, but it also swipes the legs from under the experience. that being said, i still think bourbon is probably my least favourite type of whiskey, personally.
Jack Daniel's was my first experience with whiskey but Jameson is where I discovered just how much more there is to whiskey. Jameson was also my go to shower whiskey in a different life
Breathing is always the first thing I share with beginners - that’s where the majority of unpleasantness comes from in my experience. Completely swallowing 2-3 times before you exhale through your mouth makes a HUGE difference in the tasting experience
Fully or forcibly exhaling all the ethanol after sipping is the technique I picked up with my first bottle of Elijah Craig. Expelling most of the ethanol dramatically reduces the burn but still leaves a lot of flavor behind.
Agreed first time whiskey drinks always exhale through the nose and it tends to over power their senses and burns their sinuses at the same time making for an unpleasant experience
Wait what? I'm trying to find out what I like in terms of whiskey, and was trying to A-B Elijah Craig and Woodford Reserve this weekend and was having a terrible time distinguishing between the two because of the burn. I should be swallowing a lot after taking a sip before breathing out?
@@DusterTIB IIRC, the burn comes from the excess of ethanol vapors. Think about when you get too close when nosing and it burns - backing off it will let less concentrated vapors hit your nose, making it less unpleasant. Now think about that, except the alcohol is now inside your mouth, and you taste it by exhaling the vapors over your tongue. The more liquid alcohol in your mouth, the more concentrated vapors, hence the more the unpleasantness. Works for wine too :)
Original Glenmorangie is usually an easy malt for beginners. Seems the slightly sweeter whiskies like the sherry or port matured malts are a little easier to start with as well.
@@aaronsan6488 yeha, i find auchens too clean . Triple distilled clean, i like hazelburns but definitley the least out of the springbank family due to the triple distilled nature of it. but definitely easy on the palate
I had the same experience as Gina - tried JW Red, Balantines, Four Roses and Jameson, all of it was just pain and burning. I then just said screw it and thought maybe whisky just isn't for me. I bout a bottle of rum for my birthday (Diplomatico Riserva Exclusiva) and I REALLY enjoyed it. By drinking sonething I liked, I finally got used to ABV higher than beer or wine. One day I decided to try whisky again, went to a pub, and ordered Glennfiddich 12. I really liked that stuff. Loved the pear and apple notes, and really liked the black pepper (spaghetti carbonara is one of my favorite dishes). Later I tried a whisky called Two Doves, it's produced here in Serbia and again - loved the black pepper and waxy walnut notes I got from it. So my suggestion - every once in a while try a new type of spirit. I found spirits with a bit more sweetness to be easier to drink, maybe that works out for some.
I bought monkey shoulder as my first whisky from watching you guys, and really enjoyed it. But it took about half the bottle to just get acclimated to drinking neat. The first bottle that really got me excited was Jameson stout edition. As far as bourbon goes I really liked wild turkey 101. It was such a slap in the face for me but also too interesting to not have another sip
I would not say i fell in love with it, but my first whisky was crown royal, and I *hated it*, but the more i had it the better it got. Its not super primo complex whisky, but its simple, smooth, easy drinking.
Eagle rare is the bottle that brought me in to the world of whiskey, however I was fortunate enough to have an experienced friend reccomend the bottle based off of food preferences. He is also the one that introduced me to the tribe. Cheers to you Derber!
It's amazing how important a role breathing plays in enjoying your experience with higher proof alcohol. Yes small sip like hot coffee but right before the sip, take a breath, hold it, sip, taste, swallow then exhale. If I had to make a list of the friendliest whiskeys I would have picked green spot for Irish, Glenfidich 14 for Scotch, Russell's Reserve 10 for bourbon.
the whisky can change in a glass, further more, once neckpour is gone, whisky changes in the bottle slightly, not always better or worse just changes. but its cool when a whisky is too fiery, too peaty, sometimes i leave it after neck pour for 1 month and suddenly boom. comes to its own.
Never drank distilled until I watched your videos. My first en second where a Redbreast 12 and an Oban 14. These are my go to bottles ;-) Meanwhile found bladnoch 11, tamdu 12 and a johnny double black. Thank you for your content. I'm loving it.
A whiskey I use for introducing people is Aberlour 16. Beginners aren’t able to pick up the subtlety but is so mellowed that even if they are sensitive to the burn they tend to like it more.
Laphroaig 10 was my first love (the cs is still my favorite). For beginners, though, my go-tos are: Aberlour 12, Ardbeg Uggedal(not even trying to spell that right), Yamazaki 12 (or glenfiddich 15, they're shockingly similar), and Balcones 1 single malt.
Ardbeg Uigeadail is my favourite Ardbeg. I agree with the others. I personally don't like the Glenfiddich 15 since the taste really lets me down after its scent overpromised. I like adding drops of Apfelstrudel liqueur in there and then it tastes like it smells.
@@MrWhangdoodles I see how glenfiddich 15 is a bit of a let down. I personally like it but I'm still a novice just trying different things. my next 3 bottles are: glenfiddich 18 (looking to get a bottle of 21 afterwards and finish the lineup), then the 2 newer types of Glenlivet NAS with unique cask finishes.
Nice try guys. I give you an A for effort. Perhaps you planted a seed though.... Just like most people I came into whiskey through shots at parties and bars, and never really cared for it. Then I was introduced to scotch on the rocks, and found that I really enjoyed that, especially after it sat for a bit. I went through a lot of Johnny Walker Black back then. Then I found Laphroig and absolutely fell in love, and started down the "neat" trail. Now I really love most all whisk(e)y, usually neat. Strange how the journey progresses!
Tx blended whiskey and BSB are the 2 whiskeys that opened my eyes to whiskey that I can actually enjoy. I found that for beginners the sweeter Bourbons are a great way to start
For me it was Lagavulin 16, but for a beginner/hater I'd go with things like Crown Royal, Johnnie Walker Black, Dewar's White label, Jameson Caskmates Stout, Redbreast 12, Ancnoc 12 or Oban Little Bay. I'd go Laphroaig Select to start the peat/ash adventure. Wouldn't do Bourbon to start. I feel Bourbon needs proof to be good/flavourful and I wouldn't go high proof on someone new to whisky/spirits. Great vid guys
Eagle Rare. The first time I realized that there was flavors that I could taste other than just "high alcohol taste" that we all remember from college. It was enough for me to slowly overcome that impression over the course of a bottle. Now I'm 85% a scotch guy.
angels envy is what brought me into being able to enjoy whiskey, its very easy to drink and tastes quite pleasant. but i think i'm more of an irish whiskey guy now
For me, one of the good intro whiskies was Balvenie Doublewood. Another was Glenfarclas 17, though as a 17yo it wouldn't be a beginners' whisky due to price, but the sherry forward (and lacking in smoke) stuff is very friendly to newcomers.
I think the first whisky that ever got me interested in further exploration was probably Johnnie Walker Black. Shortly thereafter I discovered Macallan 12 yr Sherry Cask and fell in love. But I really started delving deeper into whisky once I discovered Ardbeg Uigeadail. That stuff was a game changer for me, and I've never turned back.
The first whiskey I fell in love with and was able to pick up specific tasting notes Elijah Craig. But my nomination for best whiskey for beginners would be Writers Tears it's extremely simple with no alcohol burn or smell.
I shot whiskey in my twenties and have only drank beer for the last twenty years. Lagavulin 16 was the whisky that started my love for whisk(e)y. I now love all sorts of Scoth, Irish, and American whiskies.
Laphroaig 10 was the whisky that made me fall in love with Scotch and I have converted at least 14 people using that. For those that didn't like it, anCnoc 12 or Balvenie DoubleWood worked well. Before I realised Scotch could taste that good, I used to drink Jameson. The first bourbon I liked was Woodford Reserve.
@@joshuafurr6516 Back when I only had 4 bottles of Scotch, they were Laphroaig, Ardbeg, Cragganmore and Famous Grouse... However, I don't like the Ardbeg they make now as much as what they made back then, so maybe Ledaig or Port Charlotte?
I really can't have Laphroaig at all. Or any scotch that I've tasted for that matter but esp Laphroaig. I can't remember which one now though. I seem to be in a minority 😅
One of the best beginner’s scotch whiskies I know of is Bruicladdich. Pure barley with a light touch on the flavours, little burn and a pleasing sweetness. I also encourage beginners to take really small sips and constantly refresh their taste buds from a glass of water on the side.
For me it would be Redbreast 12 and Green spot. With the way she reacted I would of tried one of the whiskeys from Japan, a Toki would be a good place to start, less burn and a cleaner more simple experience.
Balvenie 12 year Double Barrel was the first whisky I really enjoyed, still a go to. Yellow/Green Spot also a great go to. With someone struggling with the burn might try it on ice at first.
I second this. Balvenie 12 Double Wood as well. Then a local scotch bar showed me the range of taste that scotch can have and I was hooked as a whisk(e)y explorer!
Maker's Mark or W.L. Weller. They were the first bourbons I had where I was like "I get why people drink bourbon." I like the cherry notes from the wheat, and the lighter notes eased me into bourbons with higher rye mash bills.
Yes, Four Roses was the first bourbon I liked, but standard Makers Mark is the most accessible bourbon I've tasted. It's a little less complex than a lot of other bourbons, but that's not a bad thing for beginners.
First whiskey I tried was woodford reserve. Bought a 250nl. Enjoyed it. Went back a few days later for the 750ml. And a year later I’ve tried over 30 whiskeys
I discovered whisky with Jameson, but it's Glenfiddich 12 that made me actively drink whisky! Retrospectively I feel like Glenfiddich 12 is a great gateway into learning to taste different aspects of whisky. It's kind of malty yet it's kind of fruity and it has a smooth finish, and really kind of "trained" my palate to know what to look for when tasting whisky if that makes any sense!
It was Dalwhinnie 15 at a Robert Burns Night party hosted by the Irish-born priest at our church! We loved it straight away, and it's our go-to when we travel. I agree with eli eddy that Canadian might be the best starting point for beginners.
One thing I do to subdue the burn is to take the smallest amount of whiskey in like a drop or two. Push my tongue to the roof of my mouth and let the whiskey run down and coat my tongue. The whiskey will dilute with your saliva and then I’ll swallow. This prevents that burning sensation and let’s you taste more of the whiskey imo. I’ve had my brother try most of the beginner whiskeys and he didn’t like most of them. One of the whiskies I had high hopes for was Glenlivet 14 Cognac Cask which he actually liked. It’s really fruity / floral with little to no burn. It’s also affordable if you’re going for the 375 ml bottle.
Tullamore Dew was the Whiskey that made me fall in love with it! Irish Whiskey is a lot smoother for beginners. Maybe include a Canadian Whiskey as they are easier for beginners to stomach as well.
Grew up in Canada, first intro to Whiskey was Canadian Club, great price, great history. Whenever i introduce my friends to Canadian Rye, it is always Forty Creek Double Barrel. It is nutty, creamy, almost syrupy, great a lone or with some coke, or just in a glass with some water like my Dad always has his whiskey.... and it won't break your bank~
In my experience, The Balvenie 12 seems to be a good introductory Scotch. I've introduced a few people to Scotch with it and it generally goes well. Caribbean cask would probably work, too.
A whisky that I have had success getting beginners into the world of whisk(e)y is Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban 14 Year Old. It somehow has no sharp edges, but still manages to have depth.
Here are some whiskey's that, although didn't initiate my love of whiskey, they definitely solidified my love for it: woodford reserve double oaked (I think it tastes like chocolate), redbreast 12 (my favorite whiskey - no bite whatsoever), angel's envy, and lagavulin 16 (probably not great for a beginner whiskey list).
WR dbl-oak taste like ..BIG WOOD (take that as you will). Then a massive overdose of the banana ((aka Brit: 'pear drop') iso-amyl -alc') . It's true garbage. Beam & MGPI produce lot' better product t lower price. 4roses too,.
@@Deathmastertx agreed, though glenfiddich 12 kinda wrested my interest then glenfiddich 15 solera vat wrested that. it just goes down so easy for me. the only catch: I like my whiskey as a cocktail (with coke) and it's just enough to reduce the heat whilst getting plenty of the tasting notes which is why I find glen 15 to be.....a bit of a mixed hitter, the bourbon note is repugnant but once I got used to the taste it's like water!
It's just hilarious and so honest,))))) My wife is no whiskey drinker and she really really liked Redbreast 12 and Four Roses small batch and single barrel)))))
My first purchase was a Talisker 10 years old, loved it and that is what got me in to whisky. But if introduce whisky to new people the ones i have had success with are. Monkey shoulder, macallan 12, nikka coffey grain and glenmorangie signet.
She should have tried them on ice as well. For me, I had to go from mixed, and then to on the rocks before I could tolerate anything neat. Templeton Rye was the first whiskey I'd ever had neat and I enjoyed it. Not nearly as much as I enjoy scotch and bourbon now though.
Yes. This also was a crash course. I'm sure it took longer than the video run time, but this seemed like 40-60 mins in the making which is a pretty overwhelming amount of whiskey on the palette for the uninitiated. I find a cube or two in a rocks glass really smooths out the ethanol and allows some of the flavor to come forward. It does require a little more time to let the ice melt and the booze to get cold.
I totally understand her reaction to bourbon. For some of us, those medicinal cherry cough syrup notes are just so dominant, it can never taste like anything else. Even now with experience, I mostly have a no new oak policy.
For me its not really the no new oak. I just tend to dislike whiskey from warmer climates. More oak less age. I just think they punch you in the face with a wall of cinnamon and brown sugar and amazing stuff but then fall immediately flat and dissapoint. Idk
This was awesome. I personally love each of the whiskeys tasted in this video, so it's so great to see someone experience them in an entirely different way. My very first whisky was a 12yo Glenlivet. It caught my interest and I decided to explore. The moment I realized I was truly into whiskey was when I sat down with a group of friends and a bottle of 10yo Bushmills single malt. So approachable, so easy to sip, so balanced. I enjoy all varieties now, but those were my lovely beginnings.
The scotch that made me like scotch is Shackleton. Just the cheap blue bottle, never got my hands on the limited run. I'd personally put it on any beginner tasting, it goes down super easily and the salty notes are fun. I also personally find the Glenfiddich 15 more accessible & interesting than the 12 & the bourbon that made me like bourbon was Booker's
Mine was Speyburn, it was buttery and smooth with a hint of toffee like malt. Then I tried a cheap Islay to see if it was worth spending money. Now I'm a drunk that can't get enough of a slap and tickle from the ISLAY, Must be all caps you know.
My first whiskey I fell for was Glenmorangie 10 yro, then someone bought me the Glenmorangie 18 yro for my birthday and that topped it, of course, now my go to, as a occasional treat, is Redbreast 12 Year Old single pot still.
She needed a low proof, fruit flavored whiskey. Someone mentioned Canadian whiskey and I think Apple Crown is about the best you could hope for. She gave it a good, honest shot.
For me I first started with a Benriach 10 year peated speyside scotch whiskey. I love it that peat smoke, with the oak, and Liqurish Anis. It is awesome.
Gina actually has really good tasting techniques and if or when she can finally pickup exhaling forcibly to dramatically reduce the ethanol burn she's banging up against. My hope is she would start to enjoy what we all do on the other side of that wall.
Reminds me of my wife's reaction and she doesn't drink (and also doesn't like coffee, chocolate, cola, or tea - so no bitter notes.) I've had her nose whiskey and two things happen. One, she can smell the alcohol if it's sitting on the table (I can't), and can't even nose the glass with getting overwhelmed. Two, she can't distinguish the smell of bourbon from mezcal because she gets such a strong rubbing alcohol smell. Part of me wonders if that's more than just sensitization and maybe she's genetically more sensitive to alcohol and bitter flavors like coffee.
Smell and taste is already super individualistic and varies between people. It's like the Whiskey hater who turned out to really like the smoky whiskeys, he always stuck his whole nose in the glass to smell it probably because his sense of smell is desensitized (the opposite to your lovely wife). Take care. Greetings from Iceland :)
whiskey. My first "foreign" whiskey was Bushmills, love it. Y'all's channel brought me to most of these beginner whiskeys, and I'm a bourbon boi through and through. I'm also a budgeter so WT101 and Four Roses are my go to faves.
WR also brought me back into the whisk(e)y game. It's a good entry to Bourbon, no doubt. You should check out Eagle Rare, it's pretty amazing. My favorite right now is the Town Branch Single Barrel Reserve at 61.3 % Vol. The alcohol in this one is so beautifully embedded, there is almost no burn.
@@saschaeggert2148 spot on about eagle rare, it's delightful. Angels envy is great as well, but for a more "budget" option I've been gravitating towards the Russel's reserve. It's kind of generic bourbon tasting, but a really good bourbon so who cares.
Based on my experience with my wife who is not a fan of whiskey, Michters American Whiskey might be the "bourbon" for a whiskey hater (yeah, I know it technically isn't a bourbon, but it is very similar). Strangely , she also liked Cali Riptide Rye, which is 118 proof, so it isn't the alcohol, it's just the flavor.
It's ok if folks don't like drinking whisky. It just means more whisky for me. My first was Chivas Regal. But the one that made me fall in love with whisky was Lagavulin 16
Y'all frequently say a whisky is "beginner friendly" but not something you'd frequent. I'm thinking TX and Gentleman Jack. If someone's this averse to the full flavor versions why would you not go straight to what you state as beginner friendly?
I think that, for those that like wine, some of the better ' first' whiskeys would be those finished in wine cask ( ie. Glenlivet 14 or 15); or those that have a ' feel of a wine' ( light or fruity or a ' sparkly' mouth feel ie. Macallan 12)
Paddy’s Irish whiskey..... absolutely changed my life man it was the first “drink” with my dad and his biker buddy we drank the bottle in less than 2 hours. The color, taste, and bottle are perfect for my tastes. If you ever see it buy a case!!!
@@piratewhoisquiet I find Highland and Island whiskey to be a great intro point for single malts since they tend to be all over the map from smoke to sweet.
I loved Tullamore DEW and Bushmills in the beginning (still do). The Jameson caskmates Stout was also very kind to me. Now I'm expanding the pallet and tend to favour Scotch every once in a while
Genius video guys. Absolutely loved the back seat heckling. My gateway drug, sorry whisk(e)y, was Penderyn Welsh Gold, Maderia Finish. St.Davids day in Snowdonia and generous landlord. Mooch points awarded I hope. Just kept going back for that big butterscotch note. It's quite easy to get in the UK, so always try and keep one in.
I know I am running late but just watch the video and I have had success getting buddies to enjoy whiskey without mixing when I found rum cask barrel whiskeys. One I used that got a guy into whiskey and now has not ever turned back was angels envy rum cask and the other is Balvenie 14 year rum cask. Maybe because they’re used to mixing and liking their alcohol a little sweeter….
For me my friends tried to introduce me to whisky with all the classics and nothing worked for me. until i tried Dalwhinnie 15 Yr and it just clicked now i have grown to love single malt and branched off into the rest of Whisky.
I was introduced to whiskey through cocktails, but quickly moved to neat pours. My favorites when starting whiskey was Jefferson's Reserve and Larceny. Later on Writer's Tears was a great intro Irish whiskey.
Because you asked: My intro to whisk(e)y was Johnny Walker Red, which I liked decently at the time. Laphroaig 10 was the spirit that got me into whiskey more seriously. In general, my preference is scotch>bourbon>sour mash>rye>Canadian>Irish whisky; almost all Irish whiskies have a note that my palate identifies as artificial sweetener's aftertaste.
My first tasting was with J.W. Dant 100 Proof BIB from chilled pewter cups in the 1970's. It started my love of Bourbon. I still like it today even though it is not the same as it was back then. Different distiller today I think and not sold in many stores.
I haven't come across this on anything, so I'm not sure if it's really a thing, but I like to introduce friends with the 2 sip method. First sip gets the burn out of the way, and then you can actually taste it with the second sip.
Hopping on this video late, but I would say two things. First some High Plains rye-- best whisk(e)y I have ever had. Second, Old Overholt is like my go to day drinker.
She didn’t like bourbon or smoke, and loves wine. Speyside would be her jam. I would also have her try: Nikka Coffey Malt, GlenGrant 12, Compass Box Orchard House, Red Breast 12 and PX.
Knob Creek 9yr is my first favorite but I'm such a Noob that I only started getting into whiskeys just the past few months. This lady was a lot of fun and all her facial expressions were hilarious, so glad she got thru this without being sick. Very educational for the rest of us that this isn't for everyone, some people just aren't going to get it, and that's ok.
So my wife, who was not a whiskey lover, had her liking for whiskey change on the 2nd day of our Islay whiskey tour on our honeymoon. The whiskey that turned the tables was Ardbeg Uigeadail on our visit at Ardbeg.
The whisky that truly got me into trying more was Talisker 10, but now, if I were to give some to somebody who is new to the world of whisky, I'd go for Glenmorangie Lasanta. It isn't my favorite Glenmo, but it is so so friendly and pleasant
My 1st whisky experience which got me into it was a glass of Aberfeldy. My whisky list at home isn't long nor super expensive: Talisker 10, Talisker Port Ruighe, Famous Grouse (mostly for mixing), Suntory Hibiki Harmony, Glendronach 15, Johnny Walker Blue (some small bottles), Balvenie Caribbean Cask, Balvenie 12, Dalmore 12, Dalmore Valour, Mortlach 15, Aberfeldy 12, Aberfeldy 18. When it comes to "regular" drinking, then I'm mostly sipping on a tumbler of Aberfeldy 12 or Glendronach 15 or Talisker Port Ruighe.
Daniel forgot one very important tip when teaching her how to try whiskey: after the "hot coffee sip" suggestion, it is important that you keep your mouth closed after the sip. Letting air in makes the alcohol 'burn" feeling. I've introduced several people to whiskey using these two steps and have had great success.
Another thing I suggest to new people when nosing is to open their mouth and breath half through the mouth and half through the nose. It softens the ethanol hit to the nose.
@@Im_Old_Gregg I've heard that as well... and I've tried it. Not sure I've figured out how to to it right, it's a little weird. :)
I know what you mean
Many people can't really sip they're used to just downing drinks
@@Im_Old_Gregg you do know that most people can't breath through their nose and mouth simultaneously, right?
@@noahvanderwyst1232 no I haven't read or conducted any studies on that topic sir. Where did you get this information?
I would definitely like to see Ciara O'doherty do a tasting like this. she absolutely loves anything alcohol and would be a good guest on here
You could have stopped at I would like to see Ciara. Period. Doesn't really matter what Ciara is doing, just like to see her.
@@JamesMcCarty I mean you ain't wrong. she really excels at drinking and enjoying liquor though.
These two couldn't hang in there with Ciara. She's a Titan just because of her supernatural drinking powers.
@@ericmcdaniel2719 agreed
A try channel crossover should definitely happen.
The double Rex laughing after the Caol Ila was gold.
13:38 :-D
SPOILERSSS NOOO lol 🤣
I still want to Caol Ila another go. Was very anti-smoke the first time I tried it, but I have been enjoying those flavors more lately.
Woodford Reserve Bourbon! I had always kind of liked whiskeys but they had always been cheaper stuff that you would find at college (or younger) parties. But then a buddies dad let me try his Woodford, and his Oban, and his Blanton's. Been a whiskey man at heart ever since.
I feel like Canadian whisky would actually be the best for beginners who don't like "oakiness". There are no regulations on which barrel Canadian whisky has to be aged in, so beginners can try different Canadian whiskies that have been aged in different barrels to find one they like. I also feel like there's more variety in Canadian whisky than most other whiskies when it comes to flavors/mash bill, so it's a good category to explore all on its own
@sandir toukaev lol Crown Royal ain't the only Canadian whiskey. That's like saying that Bourbon isn't a good type of whiskey for beginners because Jim Beam is trash
@@elieddy4277 i like Lot 40 rye whisky 🥃
@@elieddy4277 Jim Beam was my first and last whiskey lmao
@@elieddy4277 what's annoying about that is people always pick the (not quite) bottom shelf anything when trying it for the first time, i understand people don't want to spend a lot if you're not going to drink it all, but it also swipes the legs from under the experience.
that being said, i still think bourbon is probably my least favourite type of whiskey, personally.
I agree, would like to see a Canadian on here and sub out a scotch
Jack Daniel's was my first experience with whiskey but Jameson is where I discovered just how much more there is to whiskey. Jameson was also my go to shower whiskey in a different life
Breathing is always the first thing I share with beginners - that’s where the majority of unpleasantness comes from in my experience. Completely swallowing 2-3 times before you exhale through your mouth makes a HUGE difference in the tasting experience
Fully or forcibly exhaling all the ethanol after sipping is the technique I picked up with my first bottle of Elijah Craig. Expelling most of the ethanol dramatically reduces the burn but still leaves a lot of flavor behind.
Agreed first time whiskey drinks always exhale through the nose and it tends to over power their senses and burns their sinuses at the same time making for an unpleasant experience
I agree
Wait what? I'm trying to find out what I like in terms of whiskey, and was trying to A-B Elijah Craig and Woodford Reserve this weekend and was having a terrible time distinguishing between the two because of the burn. I should be swallowing a lot after taking a sip before breathing out?
@@DusterTIB IIRC, the burn comes from the excess of ethanol vapors. Think about when you get too close when nosing and it burns - backing off it will let less concentrated vapors hit your nose, making it less unpleasant. Now think about that, except the alcohol is now inside your mouth, and you taste it by exhaling the vapors over your tongue. The more liquid alcohol in your mouth, the more concentrated vapors, hence the more the unpleasantness. Works for wine too :)
Original Glenmorangie is usually an easy malt for beginners. Seems the slightly sweeter whiskies like the sherry or port matured malts are a little easier to start with as well.
can confirm Glenmorangie 10 is very friendly,
yeah that is definitely a good gateway whisky, easy on the palate. So are glenlivet 12/15
Glenfiddich 12/15/18
aberlour
most sherried drams are i find
I would add Auchentoshan 12 to the mix. It is very sweet
@@aaronsan6488 yeha, i find auchens too clean . Triple distilled clean, i like hazelburns but definitley the least out of the springbank family due to the triple distilled nature of it.
but definitely easy on the palate
Macallan also
Angel's Envy might have been more tolerable for her pallette. It is soft, effervescent, and has a sweet streak. Friendly to a delicate pallette.
I had the same experience as Gina - tried JW Red, Balantines, Four Roses and Jameson, all of it was just pain and burning.
I then just said screw it and thought maybe whisky just isn't for me. I bout a bottle of rum for my birthday (Diplomatico Riserva Exclusiva) and I REALLY enjoyed it. By drinking sonething I liked, I finally got used to ABV higher than beer or wine.
One day I decided to try whisky again, went to a pub, and ordered Glennfiddich 12.
I really liked that stuff. Loved the pear and apple notes, and really liked the black pepper (spaghetti carbonara is one of my favorite dishes). Later I tried a whisky called Two Doves, it's produced here in Serbia and again - loved the black pepper and waxy walnut notes I got from it.
So my suggestion - every once in a while try a new type of spirit. I found spirits with a bit more sweetness to be easier to drink, maybe that works out for some.
I bought monkey shoulder as my first whisky from watching you guys, and really enjoyed it. But it took about half the bottle to just get acclimated to drinking neat. The first bottle that really got me excited was Jameson stout edition. As far as bourbon goes I really liked wild turkey 101. It was such a slap in the face for me but also too interesting to not have another sip
What do you think about coal ila
I would not say i fell in love with it, but my first whisky was crown royal, and I *hated it*, but the more i had it the better it got. Its not super primo complex whisky, but its simple, smooth, easy drinking.
Eagle rare is the bottle that brought me in to the world of whiskey, however I was fortunate enough to have an experienced friend reccomend the bottle based off of food preferences. He is also the one that introduced me to the tribe. Cheers to you Derber!
It's amazing how important a role breathing plays in enjoying your experience with higher proof alcohol. Yes small sip like hot coffee but right before the sip, take a breath, hold it, sip, taste, swallow then exhale.
If I had to make a list of the friendliest whiskeys I would have picked green spot for Irish, Glenfidich 14 for Scotch, Russell's Reserve 10 for bourbon.
the whisky can change in a glass, further more, once neckpour is gone, whisky changes in the bottle slightly, not always better or worse just changes.
but its cool when a whisky is too fiery, too peaty, sometimes i leave it after neck pour for 1 month and suddenly boom.
comes to its own.
Never drank distilled until I watched your videos. My first en second where a Redbreast 12 and an Oban 14. These are my go to bottles ;-) Meanwhile found bladnoch 11, tamdu 12 and a johnny double black. Thank you for your content. I'm loving it.
Oban 14 and redbreast 12 are great
A whiskey I use for introducing people is Aberlour 16. Beginners aren’t able to pick up the subtlety but is so mellowed that even if they are sensitive to the burn they tend to like it more.
Laphroaig 10 was my first love (the cs is still my favorite). For beginners, though, my go-tos are: Aberlour 12, Ardbeg Uggedal(not even trying to spell that right), Yamazaki 12 (or glenfiddich 15, they're shockingly similar), and Balcones 1 single malt.
Ardbeg Uigeadail is my favourite Ardbeg. I agree with the others. I personally don't like the Glenfiddich 15 since the taste really lets me down after its scent overpromised. I like adding drops of Apfelstrudel liqueur in there and then it tastes like it smells.
@@MrWhangdoodles I see how glenfiddich 15 is a bit of a let down. I personally like it but I'm still a novice just trying different things.
my next 3 bottles are: glenfiddich 18 (looking to get a bottle of 21 afterwards and finish the lineup), then the 2 newer types of Glenlivet NAS with unique cask finishes.
Laphroaig 10 was my first love too. Smooth with no burn, but you have to enjoy the smokiness that comes along with it or you will hate it
Nice try guys. I give you an A for effort. Perhaps you planted a seed though.... Just like most people I came into whiskey through shots at parties and bars, and never really cared for it. Then I was introduced to scotch on the rocks, and found that I really enjoyed that, especially after it sat for a bit. I went through a lot of Johnny Walker Black back then. Then I found Laphroig and absolutely fell in love, and started down the "neat" trail. Now I really love most all whisk(e)y, usually neat. Strange how the journey progresses!
Tx blended whiskey and BSB are the 2 whiskeys that opened my eyes to whiskey that I can actually enjoy.
I found that for beginners the sweeter Bourbons are a great way to start
For me it was Lagavulin 16, but for a beginner/hater I'd go with things like Crown Royal, Johnnie Walker Black, Dewar's White label, Jameson Caskmates Stout, Redbreast 12, Ancnoc 12 or Oban Little Bay. I'd go Laphroaig Select to start the peat/ash adventure. Wouldn't do Bourbon to start. I feel Bourbon needs proof to be good/flavourful and I wouldn't go high proof on someone new to whisky/spirits. Great vid guys
So confused by the bonus Daniel and Rex in the background
I kinda took them as an angel/demon on her shoulder... but more like they were both demons.
i think that was supposed to be the personification of RUclips comments.
Eagle Rare. The first time I realized that there was flavors that I could taste other than just "high alcohol taste" that we all remember from college. It was enough for me to slowly overcome that impression over the course of a bottle.
Now I'm 85% a scotch guy.
Basil Hayden’s for me…
angels envy is what brought me into being able to enjoy whiskey, its very easy to drink and tastes quite pleasant. but i think i'm more of an irish whiskey guy now
For me, one of the good intro whiskies was Balvenie Doublewood. Another was Glenfarclas 17, though as a 17yo it wouldn't be a beginners' whisky due to price, but the sherry forward (and lacking in smoke) stuff is very friendly to newcomers.
Balvenie 12YO is the best.
Balvenie Double wood 12, my first love. Now I own nearly 100 bottles from all the categories, but I still love going back to my first love.
I think the first whisky that ever got me interested in further exploration was probably Johnnie Walker Black. Shortly thereafter I discovered Macallan 12 yr Sherry Cask and fell in love. But I really started delving deeper into whisky once I discovered Ardbeg Uigeadail. That stuff was a game changer for me, and I've never turned back.
For me what got me started was benromach 15yo. Great speyside whisky
After not liking bourbon, or Jameson, I found Glenlivet 12 years to be the least burny for me as a beginner.
Holy shit, the doubles in the background had me dying of laughter. lol. Keep that bit around.
The first whiskey I fell in love with and was able to pick up specific tasting notes Elijah Craig. But my nomination for best whiskey for beginners would be Writers Tears it's extremely simple with no alcohol burn or smell.
I shot whiskey in my twenties and have only drank beer for the last twenty years. Lagavulin 16 was the whisky that started my love for whisk(e)y. I now love all sorts of Scoth, Irish, and American whiskies.
Laphroaig 10 was the whisky that made me fall in love with Scotch and I have converted at least 14 people using that. For those that didn't like it, anCnoc 12 or Balvenie DoubleWood worked well.
Before I realised Scotch could taste that good, I used to drink Jameson.
The first bourbon I liked was Woodford Reserve.
Same for me. What was your follow up to Laphroaig? I’m about to polish off a bottle and looking to try another. Maybe Ardbeg.
@@joshuafurr6516 Back when I only had 4 bottles of Scotch, they were Laphroaig, Ardbeg, Cragganmore and Famous Grouse... However, I don't like the Ardbeg they make now as much as what they made back then, so maybe Ledaig or Port Charlotte?
I really can't have Laphroaig at all. Or any scotch that I've tasted for that matter but esp Laphroaig. I can't remember which one now though. I seem to be in a minority 😅
Glen Grant Majors Reserve is a pretty gentle, approachable whisky
First whiskeys were Balvenie followed by Dalwhinnie, but it was Glenmorangie's Quinta Ruban that got me hooked!
One of the best beginner’s scotch whiskies I know of is Bruicladdich. Pure barley with a light touch on the flavours, little burn and a pleasing sweetness. I also encourage beginners to take really small sips and constantly refresh their taste buds from a glass of water on the side.
For me it would be Redbreast 12 and Green spot. With the way she reacted I would of tried one of the whiskeys from Japan, a Toki would be a good place to start, less burn and a cleaner more simple experience.
The little Rex and Daniel devils in the background were hilarious.
Balvenie 12 year Double Barrel was the first whisky I really enjoyed, still a go to. Yellow/Green Spot also a great go to. With someone struggling with the burn might try it on ice at first.
I second this. Balvenie 12 Double Wood as well. Then a local scotch bar showed me the range of taste that scotch can have and I was hooked as a whisk(e)y explorer!
First whisky I fell in love with was Ardbeg 10. First whisky that I could get a whisky hater to enjoy was a Glenmorangie 14 Quinta Ruban
Rex laughing in the back is by far my favorite part 😂😂
Jameson. I had a friend tell me years later that it was that bottle that also taught him that he liked whiskey
Maker's Mark or W.L. Weller. They were the first bourbons I had where I was like "I get why people drink bourbon." I like the cherry notes from the wheat, and the lighter notes eased me into bourbons with higher rye mash bills.
Yes, Four Roses was the first bourbon I liked, but standard Makers Mark is the most accessible bourbon I've tasted. It's a little less complex than a lot of other bourbons, but that's not a bad thing for beginners.
First whiskey I tried was woodford reserve. Bought a 250nl. Enjoyed it. Went back a few days later for the 750ml. And a year later I’ve tried over 30 whiskeys
I discovered whisky with Jameson, but it's Glenfiddich 12 that made me actively drink whisky! Retrospectively I feel like Glenfiddich 12 is a great gateway into learning to taste different aspects of whisky. It's kind of malty yet it's kind of fruity and it has a smooth finish, and really kind of "trained" my palate to know what to look for when tasting whisky if that makes any sense!
It was Dalwhinnie 15 at a Robert Burns Night party hosted by the Irish-born priest at our church! We loved it straight away, and it's our go-to when we travel. I agree with eli eddy that Canadian might be the best starting point for beginners.
Great episode. The whisky that got me into Scotch was Talisker 10 and it remains my favorite 25 years later. So, Daniel has it right. 😊
The first whiskey that caught my interrest was Bushmills 10. I fell in love when soon there after I first tasted Bunnahabhain 12.
Bushmills 10 is very underrated
Laphroaig 10 was the first whiskey I really fell in love with.
Yes! this one, if its at the bar im having one
I salute you! I understand it's not the smokiest whisky ever, but that is some awesome smoke that blew me out of the water
One thing I do to subdue the burn is to take the smallest amount of whiskey in like a drop or two. Push my tongue to the roof of my mouth and let the whiskey run down and coat my tongue. The whiskey will dilute with your saliva and then I’ll swallow. This prevents that burning sensation and let’s you taste more of the whiskey imo.
I’ve had my brother try most of the beginner whiskeys and he didn’t like most of them. One of the whiskies I had high hopes for was Glenlivet 14 Cognac Cask which he actually liked. It’s really fruity / floral with little to no burn. It’s also affordable if you’re going for the 375 ml bottle.
Tullamore Dew was the Whiskey that made me fall in love with it! Irish Whiskey is a lot smoother for beginners. Maybe include a Canadian Whiskey as they are easier for beginners to stomach as well.
And here I am struggling to finish my Tullamore DEW. It's just...such a nothing bottle, for me. Has nothing going on IMO.
Grew up in Canada, first intro to Whiskey was Canadian Club, great price, great history. Whenever i introduce my friends to Canadian Rye, it is always Forty Creek Double Barrel. It is nutty, creamy, almost syrupy, great a lone or with some coke, or just in a glass with some water like my Dad always has his whiskey.... and it won't break your bank~
In my experience, The Balvenie 12 seems to be a good introductory Scotch. I've introduced a few people to Scotch with it and it generally goes well. Caribbean cask would probably work, too.
I totally agree , especially the Caribbean cask with ice is awesome and very suited to get people in to wiskey
A whisky that I have had success getting beginners into the world of whisk(e)y is Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban 14 Year Old. It somehow has no sharp edges, but still manages to have depth.
Here are some whiskey's that, although didn't initiate my love of whiskey, they definitely solidified my love for it: woodford reserve double oaked (I think it tastes like chocolate), redbreast 12 (my favorite whiskey - no bite whatsoever), angel's envy, and lagavulin 16 (probably not great for a beginner whiskey list).
Redbreast 12 is so damn good but it's delicate stuff.
These are also my favourite whiskeys (or at least top 3 in each category).
WR dbl-oak taste like ..BIG WOOD (take that as you will). Then a massive overdose of the banana ((aka Brit: 'pear drop') iso-amyl -alc') . It's true garbage. Beam & MGPI produce lot' better product t lower price. 4roses too,.
@@Deathmastertx agreed, though glenfiddich 12 kinda wrested my interest then glenfiddich 15 solera vat wrested that.
it just goes down so easy for me. the only catch: I like my whiskey as a cocktail (with coke) and it's just enough to reduce the heat whilst getting plenty of the tasting notes which is why I find glen 15 to be.....a bit of a mixed hitter, the bourbon note is repugnant but once I got used to the taste it's like water!
It's just hilarious and so honest,))))) My wife is no whiskey drinker and she really really liked Redbreast 12 and Four Roses small batch and single barrel)))))
The editing killed me! Arrogant background Daniel is not having it 🤣🤣
My first purchase was a Talisker 10 years old, loved it and that is what got me in to whisky.
But if introduce whisky to new people the ones i have had success with are. Monkey shoulder, macallan 12, nikka coffey grain and glenmorangie signet.
She should have tried them on ice as well. For me, I had to go from mixed, and then to on the rocks before I could tolerate anything neat. Templeton Rye was the first whiskey I'd ever had neat and I enjoyed it. Not nearly as much as I enjoy scotch and bourbon now though.
Yes. This also was a crash course. I'm sure it took longer than the video run time, but this seemed like 40-60 mins in the making which is a pretty overwhelming amount of whiskey on the palette for the uninitiated. I find a cube or two in a rocks glass really smooths out the ethanol and allows some of the flavor to come forward. It does require a little more time to let the ice melt and the booze to get cold.
Love these videos! It helps me as a noob figure out what I like without spending an arm and a leg trying to figure it out 👌🏽
I totally understand her reaction to bourbon. For some of us, those medicinal cherry cough syrup notes are just so dominant, it can never taste like anything else. Even now with experience, I mostly have a no new oak policy.
For me its not really the no new oak. I just tend to dislike whiskey from warmer climates. More oak less age. I just think they punch you in the face with a wall of cinnamon and brown sugar and amazing stuff but then fall immediately flat and dissapoint. Idk
This was awesome. I personally love each of the whiskeys tasted in this video, so it's so great to see someone experience them in an entirely different way. My very first whisky was a 12yo Glenlivet. It caught my interest and I decided to explore. The moment I realized I was truly into whiskey was when I sat down with a group of friends and a bottle of 10yo Bushmills single malt. So approachable, so easy to sip, so balanced. I enjoy all varieties now, but those were my lovely beginnings.
The scotch that made me like scotch is Shackleton. Just the cheap blue bottle, never got my hands on the limited run. I'd personally put it on any beginner tasting, it goes down super easily and the salty notes are fun.
I also personally find the Glenfiddich 15 more accessible & interesting than the 12
& the bourbon that made me like bourbon was Booker's
Mine was Speyburn, it was buttery and smooth with a hint of toffee like malt.
Then I tried a cheap Islay to see if it was worth spending money. Now I'm a drunk that can't get enough of a slap and tickle from the ISLAY, Must be all caps you know.
My first whiskey I fell for was Glenmorangie 10 yro, then someone bought me the Glenmorangie 18 yro for my birthday and that topped it, of course, now my go to, as a occasional treat, is Redbreast 12 Year Old single pot still.
She needed a low proof, fruit flavored whiskey. Someone mentioned Canadian whiskey and I think Apple Crown is about the best you could hope for. She gave it a good, honest shot.
Honestly apple crown is underrated
For me I first started with a Benriach 10 year peated speyside scotch whiskey. I love it that peat smoke, with the oak, and Liqurish Anis. It is awesome.
Gina actually has really good tasting techniques and if or when she can finally pickup exhaling forcibly to dramatically reduce the ethanol burn she's banging up against. My hope is she would start to enjoy what we all do on the other side of that wall.
Should’ve had her try glenlivet caribbean reserve. I think it leans into that banana fruity notes
Reminds me of my wife's reaction and she doesn't drink (and also doesn't like coffee, chocolate, cola, or tea - so no bitter notes.) I've had her nose whiskey and two things happen. One, she can smell the alcohol if it's sitting on the table (I can't), and can't even nose the glass with getting overwhelmed. Two, she can't distinguish the smell of bourbon from mezcal because she gets such a strong rubbing alcohol smell. Part of me wonders if that's more than just sensitization and maybe she's genetically more sensitive to alcohol and bitter flavors like coffee.
Smell and taste is already super individualistic and varies between people. It's like the Whiskey hater who turned out to really like the smoky whiskeys, he always stuck his whole nose in the glass to smell it probably because his sense of smell is desensitized (the opposite to your lovely wife). Take care. Greetings from Iceland :)
@@vinslungur Yeah, it's definitely very individualistic, just like taste for spicy food and everything else.
whiskey. My first "foreign" whiskey was Bushmills, love it. Y'all's channel brought me to most of these beginner whiskeys, and I'm a bourbon boi through and through. I'm also a budgeter so WT101 and Four Roses are my go to faves.
One of the perfect entries to a higher quality Bourbon for me was Woodford Reserve. Prior to that it was just
JD.
WR also brought me back into the whisk(e)y game. It's a good entry to Bourbon, no doubt. You should check out Eagle Rare, it's pretty amazing. My favorite right now is the Town Branch Single Barrel Reserve at 61.3 % Vol. The alcohol in this one is so beautifully embedded, there is almost no burn.
@@saschaeggert2148 spot on about eagle rare, it's delightful. Angels envy is great as well, but for a more "budget" option I've been gravitating towards the Russel's reserve. It's kind of generic bourbon tasting, but a really good bourbon so who cares.
Glenlivet got me into whiskey, Woodford Reserve kept me there and now Elijah Craig won't let me go.
For me it was the balvenie double wood 12 that got me hooked. It’s the weller 12 that keeps me hooked.
Based on my experience with my wife who is not a fan of whiskey, Michters American Whiskey might be the "bourbon" for a whiskey hater (yeah, I know it technically isn't a bourbon, but it is very similar). Strangely , she also liked Cali Riptide Rye, which is 118 proof, so it isn't the alcohol, it's just the flavor.
It's ok if folks don't like drinking whisky. It just means more whisky for me.
My first was Chivas Regal. But the one that made me fall in love with whisky was Lagavulin 16
Y'all frequently say a whisky is "beginner friendly" but not something you'd frequent. I'm thinking TX and Gentleman Jack. If someone's this averse to the full flavor versions why would you not go straight to what you state as beginner friendly?
Your background conscience in the chairs was hilarious. 🤌
I think that, for those that like wine, some of the better ' first' whiskeys would be those finished in wine cask ( ie. Glenlivet 14 or 15); or those that have a ' feel of a wine' ( light or fruity or a ' sparkly' mouth feel ie. Macallan 12)
First whisky I fell in love with are : Jack Daniel's Single barrel, Ardbeg 10, Glenfiddich 12
Based on Gina's taste I think she may like a Japanese Whisky.
A fruity floral Nikka would be superb.
based on Gina‘s taste I think she likes getting drunk.
Paddy’s Irish whiskey..... absolutely changed my life man it was the first “drink” with my dad and his biker buddy we drank the bottle in less than 2 hours. The color, taste, and bottle are perfect for my tastes. If you ever see it buy a case!!!
I don't like it. Single malt only. (Maybe some top class blend and bourbon/tennesy)
Not the first whisky I got into, but Tamdhu is definitely beginner friendly as it's basically alcoholic vanilla pudding.
Oban 14 is what got me into whiskey to begin with. For new people, I start them off with that, Compass Box Artist Blend, Talisker 10, and Arran 10.
Oban and Talisker? Interesting choices... I dig it, but I am far from 'new people'
@@piratewhoisquiet I find Highland and Island whiskey to be a great intro point for single malts since they tend to be all over the map from smoke to sweet.
I loved Tullamore DEW and Bushmills in the beginning (still do). The Jameson caskmates Stout was also very kind to me. Now I'm expanding the pallet and tend to favour Scotch every once in a while
Cardhu 12 was the whisky that convinced me to start drinking it regularly
Genius video guys. Absolutely loved the back seat heckling.
My gateway drug, sorry whisk(e)y, was Penderyn Welsh Gold, Maderia Finish. St.Davids day in Snowdonia and generous landlord. Mooch points awarded I hope. Just kept going back for that big butterscotch note. It's quite easy to get in the UK, so always try and keep one in.
I know I am running late but just watch the video and I have had success getting buddies to enjoy whiskey without mixing when I found rum cask barrel whiskeys. One I used that got a guy into whiskey and now has not ever turned back was angels envy rum cask and the other is Balvenie 14 year rum cask. Maybe because they’re used to mixing and liking their alcohol a little sweeter….
For me my friends tried to introduce me to whisky with all the classics and nothing worked for me.
until i tried Dalwhinnie 15 Yr and it just clicked now i have grown to love single malt and branched off
into the rest of Whisky.
Red Brest 12, The Glenrothes 12 or Jameson Black Barrel are my go-to whiskeys when I have guests who have never tried whiskey.
I was introduced to whiskey through cocktails, but quickly moved to neat pours. My favorites when starting whiskey was Jefferson's Reserve and Larceny. Later on Writer's Tears was a great intro Irish whiskey.
Because you asked:
My intro to whisk(e)y was Johnny Walker Red, which I liked decently at the time. Laphroaig 10 was the spirit that got me into whiskey more seriously. In general, my preference is scotch>bourbon>sour mash>rye>Canadian>Irish whisky; almost all Irish whiskies have a note that my palate identifies as artificial sweetener's aftertaste.
she said, sie liked sauvignon blanc. So u should have tried greenspot... perfect for white wine Lovestory. Daniel said so himself....
My first tasting was with J.W. Dant 100 Proof BIB from chilled pewter cups in the 1970's. It started my love of Bourbon. I still like it today even though it is not the same as it was back then. Different distiller today I think and not sold in many stores.
My first which got me hooked was Basil Hayden. From there my favorites are Russell's Reserve 10yr, Henry McKenna and George Dickel 3 chamber rye
I haven't come across this on anything, so I'm not sure if it's really a thing, but I like to introduce friends with the 2 sip method. First sip gets the burn out of the way, and then you can actually taste it with the second sip.
Hopping on this video late, but I would say two things. First some High Plains rye-- best whisk(e)y I have ever had. Second, Old Overholt is like my go to day drinker.
She didn’t like bourbon or smoke, and loves wine. Speyside would be her jam. I would also have her try:
Nikka Coffey Malt, GlenGrant 12, Compass Box Orchard House, Red Breast 12 and PX.
Got to agree on this one, it's why I suggest Singleton (really uncomplicated, but can be a real gentle introduction).
Knob Creek 9yr is my first favorite but I'm such a Noob that I only started getting into whiskeys just the past few months. This lady was a lot of fun and all her facial expressions were hilarious, so glad she got thru this without being sick. Very educational for the rest of us that this isn't for everyone, some people just aren't going to get it, and that's ok.
So my wife, who was not a whiskey lover, had her liking for whiskey change on the 2nd day of our Islay whiskey tour on our honeymoon. The whiskey that turned the tables was Ardbeg Uigeadail on our visit at Ardbeg.
The whisky that truly got me into trying more was Talisker 10, but now, if I were to give some to somebody who is new to the world of whisky, I'd go for Glenmorangie Lasanta. It isn't my favorite Glenmo, but it is so so friendly and pleasant
My first dive into the whiskey pool was Chivas Regal 12. That was my go to for years. Now I'm more of a Lagavulin 16 and the like.
My 1st whisky experience which got me into it was a glass of Aberfeldy. My whisky list at home isn't long nor super expensive: Talisker 10, Talisker Port Ruighe, Famous Grouse (mostly for mixing), Suntory Hibiki Harmony, Glendronach 15, Johnny Walker Blue (some small bottles), Balvenie Caribbean Cask, Balvenie 12, Dalmore 12, Dalmore Valour, Mortlach 15, Aberfeldy 12, Aberfeldy 18. When it comes to "regular" drinking, then I'm mostly sipping on a tumbler of Aberfeldy 12 or Glendronach 15 or Talisker Port Ruighe.
My first whiskey was Lagavulin 16, and it immediately had me in love. Rn my favorite is probably the Offerman Edition