Burns Night 2024: A Toast to Scotland’s Finest Whiskeys, Old and New
Burns Night celebrations often feature whiskey as a centrepiece, with distilleries offering a range of expressions to mark the occasion. This year, a selection of single malts and blends has been highlighted, each showcasing distinct flavours and traditions from across Scotland. From lightly peated drams to rich, sherried releases, the choices reflect both classic and contemporary styles. Islay’s Bowmore distillery presents two standout expressions. The Bowmore 27 Year Old Timeless is a rare, refined single malt known for its depth and elegance, ideal for special occasions. Meanwhile, the Bowmore 12 Year Old maintains a balanced mix of fruit, smoke, and sweetness, embodying the island’s signature character. Elsewhere, Laphroaig 10 Year Old delivers an intense, peaty, and maritime experience, staying true to Islay’s bold tradition. On the lighter side, Cù Bòcan 15 Year Old offers a playful, lightly peated dram with sweet spice and citrus notes. For those preferring sherried richness, Tomatin 18 Year Old Oloroso Sherry brings layers of dried fruit and tropical sweetness. The Antiquary 21 Year Old stands out as a well-balanced blend, celebrating maturity and finesse. Glen Scotia 12 Year Old captures Campbeltown’s coastal influence, with a maritime edge and structured profile. A modern twist comes from Ardray, a blended whiskey born from a Scottish-Japanese partnership. The Singleton of Dufftown 15 Year Old provides a softer Speyside style, well-suited to a Burns Night supper. Rounding out the selection, Johnnie Walker Black Ruby introduces a sweeter, fruit-forward blend for contemporary tastes. This year’s Burns Night whiskey lineup spans traditional and innovative styles. From Islay’s smoky intensity to Speyside’s gentle sweetness, the range offers something for every preference. Each expression reflects Scotland’s diverse whiskey heritage, ensuring a memorable celebration.
