Six superb Scotch whiskies to set your sights on

These amber beauties offer a myriad of flavours for whisky noses, says Sam Wylie-Harris

- Sam Wylie-Harris

SCOTLAND'S greatest export and appreciated the world over, whisky is certainly one of the most complex spirits to tantalise the tastebuds.

With its rich flavour map - these nuggets can vary from fruity to smoky, medicinal to oily - and influence of oak ageing shaping the aromas, taste and characteristics, not to mention the type of cask... it is little wonder these whiskies are worth the wait.

And with such a broad spectrum of styles, where to start? From signature drams to new releases, we've shortlisted some standout single malts to stir the senses...

JURA 12-YEAR-OLD SINGLE MALT SCOTCH WHISKY, £29.90 (was £34.90), 70cl, Master of Malt Distilled in the Hebridean Isle of Jura, off Scotland's west coast, this 12-year-old is matured in American white oak and ex-bourbon casks and marked by a lightly peated, gentle smoky note, with hints of milk chocolate; layers of bright orchard fruits unfold, with touches of peach, citrus, warm spice and faint smoke, with a lightly toasted nuttiness on the long-lasting finish.