Talisker Select Reserve (Game of Thrones-House Greyjoy)

I didn’t expect much from this Talisker given the lack of age statement and bottom shelf pricing, but it might just be the bargain of the year. Push past the artificial dark coloring and you’ll find a very enjoyable dram that combines sherry, cream and malt flavours into easy-drinking comfort food. The nose is lightly sherried, it’s smooth and slightly sweet in the mouth, and the malty, savoury finish doesn’t stint on length. The balance of sherry and bourbon casks is near perfect. What it does lack is much in the way of peat, but it’s none the worse for that. It’s the kind of whisky I could find myself turning to frequently when I’m the mood for a undemanding dram and I suspect this bottle will go down faster than many a more expensive one. House Greyjoy, I pledge my allegiance to you.

Boulder bar