Aberfeldy goes under the radar, but I’d consider it be one of the best options for a new Scotch drinker. Let’s just get into this one. Nose: Floral and fruity. Apple, orange, apricot, peach, and pear. Toffee, vanilla, and caramel. Vanilla frosting. Almond and walnut. Cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, and oak. Palate: Apple, pear, apricot, and orange. Vanilla, caramel, butterscotch. Vanilla frosting and sugar cookie. Walnut and toasted almond. Oak, clove, nutmeg, and black pepper. Finish: Walnut and almond. Apricot, apple, orange, and pear. Vanilla, brown sugar, and sugar cookie. Baking spice and oak. Short-moderate. This could be the template for the Speyside profile—Highland label notwithstanding. An enjoyable pour, no doubt. But not a particularly compelling pour, either. It’s a fine value at $44. Solid nose, decent palate, okay finish. Very pleasant, and extremely balanced. This is definitely something I would give it to a first-time Scotch drinker with the expectation that this makes for a great gateway pour. As for me, the lack of complexity yanks this otherwise enjoyable pour down to a 3/5.