Glen Marnoch Islay

No one else has reviewed this incredibly inexpensive Aldi whiskey, so I guess it falls to me. I tasted it immediately after a couple of Taliskers, so the competition is tough. Still, Aldi products have repeatedly won blind taste tests, so it's important to keep an open mind. The color is pale straw, similar to an Ardbeg, but the aroma is like iodine smeared on burnt bicycle tires. Not very good. The initial taste brings smoke and, well, that's about it. No fruit that I can detect, and not much Islay meaty chewiness. They say this stuff is actually Caol Ila or Lagavulin, but if so, they're using the bottom of the barrel for this expression. I'd love to see a £20 whiskey be a giant killer, but this isn't it.

This 2021 edition of a budget malt was matured for 3 years in "oak barrels." Its hue doesn't match its age, showing a deep amber that suggests caramel coloring. The aroma is classic Islay: sweet peat smoke, toffee, and brine. The palate echoes this with more seaweed and salt. It's less intense than southern coastal malts; could this be a young Bowmore? Compared to similar spirits, it lacks a harshness or chemical aftertaste. Not bad for the cost.

The price is unbeatable. This seems like a Laphroaig 10 knock-off. The aroma is of damp earth and hay with a subtle sweet fruit in the background. The palate is initially a bit thin but develops an oily texture with time. It features rich, smoldering smoke and earthy notes. The finish is quite brief with a hint of leather. Found for £17.49 at ALDI in the UK. For that price, it's exceptional. It's not Laphroaig 10 or any of the top-tier Islay whiskies, but it's quite pleasant.

Rather thin with a mild smokiness, maltiness, and sweetness, carrying a slight briny character. It's drinkable and easy to consume, but lacks complexity, appearing a bit dull and uninteresting compared to other Islay malts. However, to be fair, it is very inexpensive.

Peaty with hints of maple, and a lingering flavor. For £17 a bottle, it's a great everyday pour.

It tastes more like a Highland than an Islay, but considering the price, you can't complain.