We often get asked a question that goes, roughly, like this: “So, I want to get my father-in-law/uncle/boss a nice bottle of Scotch. He likes single malts, but I don’t know much else. And I want it to be something that is about, well, not over $50.”
An easy response for us is, “Cardhu 12 Year Old.” We’ve a few reasons for this.
For one, just look at the bottle. When gift-giving, appearance usually matters, and Cardhu just oozes class. The bottle for this Speyside malt has a fat wooden stopper and is pinched at the sides.
The price is also right—you can find a fifth of Cardhu in the United States for $40 to $50. (Our retailer sells it online for $49.99.)
And when gift-giving, there’s nothing wrong with handing over a well-known brand of whisky, like Johnnie Walker Black or Glenfiddich. But we think it adds a little something if the recipient opens the package and says, “Aaah, well, now what’s this?”
Lastly, there is the taste. Cardhu (80 proof) is neither overwhelming nor wimpy. It offers a perfumey nose, and flavors of honey, caramel, pear, and a little iodine and peat. It can be enjoyed neat or with a little water or ice. (Rating ****)
The holidays looms; so get shopping!