The aromas of this whisky evokes childhood memories for Peter Morrell

Glen Marnoch Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky is Aldi’s budget-friendly take on the bold, peaty expressions of Islay. Priced at just £18.49, it has garnered significant attention for delivering a smoky dram at a fraction of the cost of its more renowned counterparts. Islay is something of a Marmite taste, you either love it or hate it. Out of all the Scottish single malts though Islay is probably the most distinctive, and although I like all Scotch whiskies, it’s my go to style

Packaging
Despite its budget price, the Glen Marnoch Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky comes in a well-designed presentation sleeve, so is ideal as a gift.

The Pour
I used the Glencairn whisky nosing glass for this tasting, which, in my opinion brings out the best of any whisky. By law every whisky has got to be labelled by its age. The minimum age before release is three years. The Glen Marnoch Islay Single Malt is listed on the bottle as three years, but my guess is that the dark amber colour in the glass would suggest a whisky closer to five years old.

The Bouquet
When I was young, I lived in the countryside and on a cold, still night the air hung heavy with the smell of coal fires and the gentler sweet perfume of burning oak and beech. My first sniff of the peat smoke were evocative of those inky black nights, illuminated by the Milky Way, but there is more. There are citrus notes and a smooth sweetness. While not as intense as some Islay classics, it offers a good introduction to the region’s characteristic scents.

Palate
In the mouth, there’s a light smokiness intertwined with notes of vanilla and a touch of fruitiness. The taste of this whisky is driven by its ‘terroir’, winter storms batter this western isle wih a salt spray and seaweed, so there is evidence of clean iodine notes. The peat is present but not overpowering, making it approachable for those new to Islay whiskies.

Finish
The finish has lingering smoke and a mild peppery warmth. It’s also very smooth so there is virtually no ‘burn’ in the throat.

Awards
Glen Marnoch Islay Single Malt has won several awards including a gold medal at the International Spirits Challenge 2022, a silver medal at the Spirits Business’s Scotch Whisky Masters 2024, and a 3-Star rating at the Great Taste Awards 2024.

Summary
For whisky enthusiasts seeking an affordable introduction to Islay malts, Glen Marnoch Islay Single Malt offers great value. It’s not got the finesse of more expensive options, but its moreish smokiness makes it a good member of any whisky collection. Price wise it’s less than half other Islay whiskies, so you can take a budget voyage of discovery, you won’t be disappointed.

Available from Aldi for £18.49 (70cl)