Merton Meade asked:
Why is it so many people find it chic to poo-poo popular whiskies like Glenlivet and Glenfiddich? I know people who say they wouldn't drink the stuff on a bet. What's not to like? I'll cheerfully admit my favourites are the south-coast Islays, but so what....

Charlie Says:

Dear Merton,

I suppose when any brand becomes familiar, even common-place, it loses 'chic'. But their success is down to more than just luck and marketing - arguably they have universal appeal. Having said this, Glenfiddich is what one would call an 'access' whisky - easy to drink, not terribly demanding, light and uncomplicated. Glenlivet has more to it - and the 18 years old is sublime. The answer is to make up your own mind; taste around and never refuse the opportunity to taste a whisky you haven't come across before.

Happy drinking!

Charles MacLean