7 New Scotch Bottles to Try Right Now

Scotch has long captivated thoughtful drinkers, whether it’s the luxury connotation fostered by many brands or the sense that it’s the essence of Scotland, a moody travel capsule in a bottle. Perhaps it’s the sense tShat scotch is always created with intent that makes it such a go-to gifting item.

The latest crop of new scotch releases underscore the effort that goes into making these prized whiskies—for example, The Macallan Estate, a new addition to the core lineup that emphasizes barley made on the distillery estate. Meanwhile, finishes continue to add range to the category, with brands using everything from oloroso sherry casks (Laphroaig Càirdeas) to port barrels (the revamped Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban).

Expect to see an ever broader range of finishes going forward. In June, the Scotch Whisky Association amended rules to permit scotch producers to use a wider variety of casks, including ex-tequila and ex-calvados casks, in maturing scotch. It should be particularly interesting to see what the shelves hold this time next year. In the meantime, these are the seven new scotch bottles to try now.

THE STREET PUMAS BLENDED ($28)

Part of a lineup positioned as affordable well spirits for bartenders to use in mixing drinks, this blended scotch by The Street Pumas is aged for three years in Scotland, then brought to proof in Jerez, Spain (as is the rest of the line), with no flavors or color added. The pour has a pale straw hue and a light, mild palate, balancing gentle smoke, spice and floral freshness. The alcohol heat feels relatively intense for an 80-proof whisky, so maybe it’s a good thing that it’s intended to mix.