Daniel Fisher, Head Spirits Buyer for Astor Wines & Spirits, paid a visit to one of New York’s premiere whisky bars for a little cocktail experimentation. Watch the video above to see Dan and Kenneth McCoy of Ward III geek out about blended versus single malt scotch in cocktails.

Compass Box Asyla Blended Scotch
A blend of grain and malt whisky. Malt whiskies: Cragganmore, Linkwood, Glen Elgin. Grain whiskies: Cambus, Cameron Bridge. Aged in first fill Bourbon barrels. This is the perfect introduction for someone who doesn’t yet know they like Scotch. Light in body and dangerously easy to drink. Perfect for summer.

Auchentoshan Classic Scotch
Here we have a fantastic expression from Auchentoshan distillery, which in Gaelic means “Corner of the Field.” In that corner of the field, where the distillation of whisky is flawless, we are offered insight into just how delicate a dram can be. Clean notes of grain, vanilla and coconut make for a most approachable whisky. Not only that, but is the perfect base spirit for any Scotch cocktail. I make Rob Roy’s with it all the time and for $30, I can supply multiple rounds for an entire party. Thank you Auchentoshan for giving us quality spirit and a reasonable price. It is no wonder you’re the only surviving distillery in Glasgow.