Great autumn whiskeys – The Fresh Toast

Fall is just around the corner, even though the weather in much of the country still feels like midsummer. That means it’s time to reevaluate the whiskey cupboard, pick out some newly introduced whiskeys and enjoy the coziest time of the year. Here are some great fall whiskeys to enjoy during shorter nights and longer happy hours.

Stagg Jr.

Don’t have the money or energy to dive into the bourbon collecting market this fall? Do not worry. Let the tickers jostle each other for the chance to spend $850 on a bottle of George T. Stagg and snuggle up with a bottle of little old Stagg Jr. He is slightly younger (and much easier to find) than his more mature counterpart. Up sibling, but Stagg Jr. still offers that irresistible combination of bold spice and high alcohol content. Ideal against the cold.

GlenDronach 18

Longer evenings and cooler temperatures call for sherry. GlenDronach Distillery in the Speyside region produces one of Scotland’s greatest sherry malts and its 18-year-old ‘Allardice’ expression is just right for autumn. Polished, nutty and dense as a fruitcake (in the best possible way), this is a classically delicious whiskey. When I was in Scotland earlier this year I heard rumors from a few bartenders that the 18 year old might be hired, so get him while you can.

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Dream Islay Barley

Autumn is all about harvest and abundance, and Bruichladdich Islay Barley is the whiskey equivalent of amber waves of grain. Made entirely from Islay-grown barley, this unpeated single malt is rich in grain intensity, with a creamy mouthfeel and delicate finish. If you think Scotch whiskey isn’t for you, Islay Barley might change your mind.

Parker’s legacy

Fall is the season for high-quality bourbon collectibles, and Heaven Hill’s Parker’s Heritage collection is always among the best. This year it’s an 11 year old bourbon with strong, bass-heavy spice notes and lots of dark caramel. Even sweeter, Heaven Hill is donating $10 from every bottle sold to the ALS Foundation in honor of the late distiller emeritus Parker Beam, who passed away earlier this year.

Strange whiskeys that challenge ideas about whiskey

Santa Fe Spirits Colkegan Single Malt Whiskey

Made in New Mexico, this American malt whiskey is made from 100% malted barley, 30% of which is smoked over mesquite. It’s smoky and nutty, with a nice richness and a distinct mineral component that makes it interesting. For a bit of fun, combine this with a few classic Islay malts in a blind tasting.

Having these in your liquor cabinet will make fall a blast!