A guide to Christmas shopping for a whiskey fan
Our man Aran Brazil talks us through some of his 2016 best buys
Shopping at this time of year is my personal nightmare before Christmas.
I dread battling crowds and sweating over the different specs of wireless headphones and hundreds of hat:scarf combos.
Most of the time I end up buying in a panicked rush, just to avoid showing up empty-handed.
One thing I do enjoy shopping for, however, is a decent whiskey for those I know enjoy it.
It's the prefect gift as it lasts for donkey's years, can be shared over Christmas with friends and in the pre-Christmas sales, there's always a bargain to be had. Here are my best buys for Christmas 2016.
Tullamore Dew, Glass pack, €23 (was €29.99), Tesco
It may be Tullamore's entry-level whiskey but that doesn't mean it's not something of a classic. Made from a blend of three whiskey styles (Pot Still, Grain and Malt), this is a great example of how good balance creates a well-rounded tipple. You'll find light fruits and mild spice with toasted wood and vanillin. It's made all the nicer by its glass tumbler gift pack.
Dundalgan 10 Years Old Single Malt Irish Whiskey, €29.99, Lidl
Sourced from Cooley Distillery exclusively for Lidl, this is probably the only 10-year-old single malt for under €30, and could well be one for those looking to dip their toe in the single malt pool before plunging in the deep end with a more expensive variety. Expect lots of fruit and spicy pepper, which are common in Irish single malts.
Jameson Black Barrel, €35 (was €51.95), O'Brien's Wines
This is the non-whiskey drinkers drink. Originally made for the South African market, some of the distilled spirit has been aged in extra charred barrels (hence the name) which gives it a sweeter and richer taste. Vanilla, marshmallow and burnt sugar are the stand-out flavours with hints of dried fruits, nuts and spice. A very approachable whiskey.
Powers 3 Swallow Release, €36 (was €45), Tesco
I've always been a fan of Powers Gold label, as it's heavier in body and mouthfeel since a large proportion of it is Pot Still whiskey. So when Powers 3 Swallows, a revival of the 100% single Pot Still Irish Whiskey once made at the old Dublin distillery was released, it was warmly received. You'll find fresh fruit notes, brown sugar sweetness, more spice than the gold label and the big bold mouth-coating feel which is to be expected from the style. This one is a great tipple for a bitterly cold December night.