A good whisky does not necessarily have to leave a strong smoky or spicy impression to pleae the drinker. Some of the more interesting premium whiskies rely on patient ageing, carefully selected casks and balanced flavours instead. So, if you find regular malts too intense, here are 5 smooth whiskies, with Gurugram prices, that are worth considering. These are: Glenmorangie Signet, Royal Salute 21 Year Old, Hibiki Japanese Harmony, Glenfiddich 18 Year Old and The Dalmore 15 Year Old whisky. From Japanese blending and rich chocolate notes to mature Scotch with orchard fruit and honey, these whiskies offer different interpretations of a rounded, easy-drinking pour.
Glenmorangie Signet takes an interesting approach to Highland single malt whisky, using chocolate malt spirit and a selection of carefully chosen oak casks. Its flavour profile brings together espresso, bitter mocha, dark chocolate and warm spices, with butterscotch adding a softer sweetness. At 46% ABV, it is richer and more intense than a traditional light Scotch, but its creamy chocolate character makes it an interesting choice for those who enjoy dessert-like flavours.
Glenmorangie Signet Single Malt Scotch Whisky Gurugram price (750ml): Rs 22,000.
Created to mark Queen Elizabeth II's coronation in 1953, Royal Salute 21 Year Old whisky is a blended Scotch made using whiskies aged for at least 21 years. Sweet pear, citrus, vanilla and autumn flowers lead its aroma, followed by orange marmalade, hazelnut and gentle spice. A subtle touch of smoke appears towards the finish, making it a well-rounded choice for those who prefer aged blends.
Royal Salute 21 Year Old Signature Blend Whisky Gurugram price (700ml): Rs 14,000.
Japanese blending takes centre stage in Hibiki Harmony, which brings together malt and grain whiskies from Suntory's Yamazaki, Hakushu and Chita distilleries. Its profile is built around honey, candied orange peel, white chocolate, rose and sandalwood. The subtle influence of Japanese Mizunara oak adds another layer without making the whisky overly smoky.
Hibiki Japanese Harmony Whisky Gurugram price (700ml): Rs 12,000.
Matured in American bourbon and European Oloroso sherry casks, Glenfiddich 18 develops a rich combination of ripe orchard fruits, baked apple, dried fruit, dates and oak. The whisky is married in small batches to maintain consistency, giving it a rounded character with a warming, lingering finish.
Glenfiddich 18 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky Gurugram price (700ml): Rs 9,200.
For those who prefer a richer dram without going heavily towards peat, The Dalmore 15 is worth considering. The Highland single malt spends its initial maturation in American white oak before being finished in three sherry casks: Matusalem, Apostoles and Amoroso. Dark chocolate, orange zest, dried fruits, cinnamon and nutmeg give it a layered character, with a silky texture rounding off the finish.
The Dalmore 15 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky Gurugram price (700ml): Rs 8,500
Note: The Glenmorangie Signet, Royal Salute 21, Hibiki Harmony Whisky and other Gurugram whisky prices listed above are approximate published retail references and can vary with retailer, availability and changes in Haryana excise regulations.