The 11 Best Scotch Whiskeys
Under $150
“Never cry over spilt milk; it could’ve been whiskey…”
What is Scotch Whiskey?
If you’ve landed on this article, you’re likely already a Scotch enthusiast, understanding intimately what defines a good Scotch. If not, simply put, Scotch is a type of whiskey produced, aged, and bottled exclusively in homeland Scotland.
Originally produced only with single malt barley, today’s Scotch can be produced with a blended combination of barley, grain, corn, and wheat. With a unique law demanding Scotch be matured in oak barrels for a minimum of three years, you can guarantee that each bottle purchased is of the utmost quality, no matter the price.
So, what makes Scotch different than the other whiskeys of the world? In short, each undergoes a unique distillation process that elicits its own tastes, notes, aromas, and ABV strength. Whether it’s a tweak to the ingredients, maturation process, use of casks or barrels, or simply the origins with which they’re made, you’ll undoubtedly be able to distinguish a Scotch from the rest of the pack.
While the debate will live on, Scotch is undeniably one of the leading spirits globally, with a reputation that boasts luxury, esteem, and prestige. If you’ve never had a sip of Scotch, you’re missing out!
The 11 Best Scotch Whiskey’s Under $150
Scotch whiskey, or Scotch for short, is as discussed a leading spirit globally, especially amongst whiskeys alone. While Scotch is typically treated more like a delicacy than a regular leisure drink, they do come in all rarities and price points.
Unlike most consumer purchases, however, no matter the price point, you can rest assured you’re getting a great quality whiskey. I tend to agree, however, that the more you’re willing to spend, the higher quality you’re going to receive.
Related: Best Whiskey Cocktails
That’s why in this list, I share the top 11 Scotch whiskey’s under $150; a higher price point than the leisurely enthusiast is willing to spend. While this is most certainly an opinionated piece, I think you’ll tend to agree with most of my choices on the list.
Curious as to what bottles and brands made the list?! Continue reading to find out!
Below are the Top 11 Scotch Whiskey’s Under $150
- The Balvenie 17-Year DoubleWood
- Limited Edition Aberfeldy 18-Year
- Jura 18-Year Single Malt
- Highland Park 18-Year
- Glenlivet 21-Year
- Glenlivet Enigma
- The Balvenie 21-Year Portwood
- Laphroaig 18-Year
- Laphroaig Lore Islay Single Malt
- Auchentoshan 21-Year
- Aberfeldy 18-Year
The Balvenie 17-Year DoubleWood
The Whiskey: Single Malt
The Distillery: Balvenie Distillery
ABV: 43%
Price: $139.99
Matured in two differently Cask-types for 17 years, the Balvenie 17 DoubleWood is a distinctly superior older sibling to the Balvenie 12. Thanks to its unique production process, the Balvenie 17 matures into a smooth and creamy yet complex-bodied single malt Scotch.
Tasting Notes: Deep vanilla notes alongside hints of green apple, toffee, and honey makes for a decadent, creamy finish. From an elegant American oak nose and layered taste to the smoothest finish you’ll find; the Balvenie 17 is hard to beat.
Limited Edition Aberfeldy 18-Year
The Whiskey: Single Malt
The Distillery: Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery
ABV: 40%
Price: $130.99
For a limited edition, 18-year-old Scotch, the price range for this scotch is more than reasonable. During its 18-year maturation process, this Aberfeldy single malt moulds into a rich and powerful spirit boasting tasting notes similar to that of dark red wine. Not to mention, the bottling and packaging of this product as awesome.
Tasting Notes: Intense but welcomed notes of rich fruit drowned in honey and butterscotch, entering a quick zing of citrus, and completing the experience with a smooth and mellow vanilla farewell. Take another sip and go on the trip at your pleasure!
Jura 18-Year Single Malt
The Whiskey: Single Malt
The Distillery: Isle of Jura Distillery Co.
ABV: 44%
Price: $134.99
The Jura 18 is the pinnacle of Jura’s product line not only for its maturation journey but for what this liquid gold offers! As an expression of true single malt Scotch, boasting intense smokey cedar and a balance of toffee and vanilla notes, you’re not getting much better than this. Not to mention, it’s rare 44% ABV.
Tasting Notes: starting with an orange zest nose and quickly transferring its aroma towards chocolate and hints of smoke; entering the mouth with a burst of sweet and savory as it transitions to a bitter end; ultimately finishing its course with a lingering char
Highland Park 18-Year
The Whiskey: Single Malt
The Distillery: Highland Park Distillery
ABV: 43%
Price: $149.99+
Named by industry leaders as the best Scotch in the world, this widely-awarded single malt scotch is one for the shelves. Be wary, however, as this is only exclusive to connoisseurs willing to pay the price (not that it isn’t worth it!). While you may get lucky to find it discounted under $150, the Highland Park 18 has been seen at the $300+ price range in some places.
Tasting Notes: Starting with its color; bright and burnt gold. Leading into the flavour: hints of cherry, dark chocolate, and peat smoke. Concluding with its ideal pairIng: try it with some fresh seafood!
Glenlivet 21-Year
The Whiskey: Single Malt
The Distillery: Glenlivet Distillery
ABV: 43%
Price: $149.99+
As the brand suggests, its 21-year old variant is the epitome of discernment, boasting qualities not only rare but unique. Put this one in the archives of history; the Glenlivet 21 – an uncommon whiskey among uncommon whiskies.
Tasting Notes: Boasting a copper-amber liquid body, a dry nose derived from its oak & sherry casks, cinnamon & syrup as the primary palate, and a flavour both warm and spicy, the Glenlivet 21 can be enjoyed with savory desserts and fruit.
Glenlivet Enigma
The Whiskey: Speyside Single Malt
The Distillery: Glenlivet Distillery
ABV: 60.3%
Price: $148.99
Appropriately named, the Glenlivet Enigma is nothing BUT an enigma amongst standard Scotch offerings. A sophisticated single malt scotch whiskey as it should be, but with a unique finish in Canadian Rye Barrels to give it its rarity and complexity only an enigma would behold.
Tasting Notes: Expect baked red apples, toffee, cinnamon, and vanilla, almost as if you were in a bakery. As the sip sears the tongue, expect notes of sweet and spicy with a hint of fresh mint. To finish, expect a long fruity aftertaste that is certainly not unwelcomed.
The Balvenie 21-Year Portwood
The Whiskey: Single Malt
The Distillery: Balvenie Distillery
ABV: 40%
Price: $149.99+
Although another potentially pricey Scotch whiskey on the list, if you’re lucky, you might happen upon a bottle under $150. Nevertheless, at this level, price shouldn’t be the determining factor, especially when you find out what the Balvenie 21 Portwood has to offer. Sip for yourself and find its worth; my presumption is that you’ll find yourself on the right side of Scotch history!
Tasting Notes: Think of the Balvenie Portwood as an elegant addition to any celebratory table. With hints of white pear, grape, and barely, finishing with a bitter yet graceful tail.
Laphroaig 18-Year
The Whiskey: Single Malt
The Distillery: Laphroaig Distillery
ABV: 48%
Price: $114.99
As mentioned in previous articles, Laphroaig is an award-winning, world-renowned Scotch brand that’s been around for centuries. While many of its awards come from its 12-year, the 18-year is no different. Two incredible pros to this product are the unique 48% ABV level, and of course, the more than affordable price! If you’re looking to get into more premium Scotch bottles without breaking the bank, start with the Laphroaig 18.
Tasting Notes: While it does boast some steep stiffness and peaty smoke notes, it’s not too overwhelming. Add a square or two of ice, and you’ve just curated an idyllic glass of Scotch; not too stiff, just the right amount of smoothness.
Laphroaig Lore Islay Single Malt
The Whiskey: Islay Single Malt
The Distillery: Laphroaig Distillery
ABV: 48%
Price: $115.99
Laphroaig is such a sought-after brand, we couldn’t avoid adding a second product to the list. With just the same, unique ABV level, the same affordable price, and the same award-winning tasting notes, the Laphroaig Lore is yet again and top Islay single malt Scotch you need to try.
Tasting Notes: As a complex blend of small-batch whiskies, the Laphroaig Lore boasts a rich, smokey taste with hints of chocolate and spicy chilli. As far as the aromatic aspect goes, expect a peaty, bitter understanding of what’s to come. Warning: Not for the amateur Scotch drinker.
Auchentoshan 21-Year
The Whiskey: Single Malt
The Distillery: Auchentoshan Distillery
ABV: 43%
Price: $149.99+
The Auchentoshan 21-year almost didn’t make the list. Why? Because it really doesn’t belong in the “under $150 category. With that said, it’s that good of a top-quality Scotch that I had to mention it. And hey, you may get lucky with a discount?! Anyways…It’s all that you could ask for in a Scotch; a perfect amount of peaty smoke aroma, a perfect combo of honey, vanilla, fruit, and oak, and a perfect blend of bitter and sweet.
Tasting Notes: To the eye, you’ll enjoy a deep color that can only be derived from a 21-year maturation process. To the nose, indulge in its berry, vanilla, and oak notes. And for the tongue, experience light and soft offering of chocolate, followed by a traditional smooth whiskey taste.
Aberfeldy 18-Year
The Whiskey: Single Malt
The Distillery: Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery
ABV: 43%
Price: $120
So, you’ve indulged in the entry-level 12-year Aberfeldy and are eager to take your palate to the next level. In comes the 18-year older brother! An evocative twist to the original 12-year, bringing forth a more bitter, deep, and intense flavour. Nevertheless, just as enjoyable…
Tasting Notes: It offers initial qualities of silk, smooth, and texturized, and aftereffects of bitter butterscotch, luscious red berries, and a final zing of citrus. Sip it slow and see what other notes you can identify!
There you have the list of, in my opinion, the 11 best scotch whiskeys under $150.
Sometimes, you need to treat yourself and buy something nice. “Treating yourself’ is exactly how I would describe drinking any one of these 11 best scotch whiskeys under $150 will feel.
If you do decide to get one of these bottles, do yourself a favor and be sure to sip.
Related: Best Irish Whiskey Under $100
Once you’ve tried one of these scotch whiskeys I’d love to hear about your experiences and personal opinions.
If I’ve missed one that should be added to the list, let me know!
Stay gold & Cheers.
