Great whiskeys for a dinner party

It’s that time of year when people come together and enjoy each other’s company, good food and hopefully something tasty to finish off. While wine is generally used at dinner parties, beer, vodka and sparkling wine are also included. But how about some great whiskeys for a Friendsgiving? Some pair well with the flavors of meat and vegetables, adding an earthy note to the palate.

RELATED: Rainy Weather Cocktails

Here you’ll find tried and tested suggestions for whiskeys that will wow the crowd and put on the table after the plates are cleared and before the babysitters have to be relieved.

Oban 14 years old

Oban 14-Year-Old is quickly climbing the ranks of my favorite all-purpose single malts. It’s the best of both worlds. It has a high peat tone and opulent, vanilla-soaked oak. It’s rich yet nuanced, sweet yet smoky, and interesting without being challenging in the least. It also goes wonderfully with chocolate.

George Dickel Barrel Select

This small batch release from George Dickel is aged between 10 and 12 years and is right in the sweet spot for American whiskey. Balanced, smooth and with George Dickel’s signature minerality, this is a lovely bottle to share with friends who may not know how delicious Dickel can be.

Hibiki whiskey

Renowned chef Justin Khanna encourages people to mix it with this Japanese whiskey. With this delicate balance of different malt and grain whiskeys, the house of Suntory offers a carefully crafted delicacy that harmonizes without overwhelming savory aromas.

Basil Hayden’s

Everyone loves bourbon, but not everyone loves the 120+ proof cask strength that is so popular these days. Basil Hayden’s is a smoother whiskey from Jim Beam while still retaining all the fruity, spicy characteristics that make American whiskey so enjoyable. It also wears a funny little paper vest.

Redbreast 12 years old

Most people shy away from the word “smooth” used to describe whiskey – what does that mean? Has anyone ever tried a strong whiskey? – but every now and then the adjective comes to mind. Redbreast 12-Year-Old is silky, sweet, supple and downright seductive, a seamless homage to the gentle flavors of malted barley and integrated oak. Don’t call it “smooth,” but your guests almost certainly will.

We wish you a wonderful holiday season and head out to Friendsgiving with some great whiskeys.