Speyburn Arranta

Speyburn Arranta Casks Single Malt Scotch Whisky: Unless you’re up on your Gaelic, that “arranta” won’t help you; it turns out it means “intrepid and daring,” and, yes, it also means this single malt from Speyburn is a product for the American market. The good news is Speyburn’s 200-plus years of tradition means it’s not overly amped up, despite being aged in American oak bourbon casks.

So expect more vanilla and a tad whiff of smoke that make this Speyside a bit more like an Islay with a Kentucky accent. Those notes accompany a spiciness that’s vivid and lasts through the warming finish. Particularly at a suggested price of $40, this is a fine single malt if you want to tipple for more than special occasions.

See speyburn.com.