Top 20 Whiskies of 2021

#13 • Arran Barrel Reserve

  • Rank: 13
  • Year: 2021
  • Score: 92
  • Price: $50
  • ABV: 43%
  • Style: Single malt
  • Place of Origin: Scotland (Islands)

Scotland has hundreds of islands, many of them familiar to scotch lovers, but the one known as Arran has flown beneath the radar. This sleeper single malt has a sublime aroma of bread dough that barely hints at the lively flavors that await in the glass, which include freshly shelled almonds, sweet berries, and clover honey, plus a toasty finish with a lovely (if not overly long) chocolate note. A balanced, elegant, and flavorful whisky that’s lively on the palate, and a true bargain at only $50. —David Savona