Suntory Ao Review
Suntory Ao brings together whiskies from five different countries into one remarkably balanced world blend. But does this ambitious Japanese release…
Hogshead Indie Spotlight
I’ve had the rare privilege of following Hogshead Indie since before its very first release. From conversations over a dram in…
Tasting Notes
Turntable Bittersweet Symphony Review
Turntable Bittersweet Symphony divided opinion during the DRAM1 Indie Awards 2026. Blind tasters discovered everything from raisins, prunes and European…
Daddy Rack Review
A Father’s Day gift from my 16-month-old son (with a little help from mum) made Daddy Rack Tennessee Straight Whiskey…
Ardbeg Dolce Review
Ardbeg Dolce Review: A Different Side of Ardbeg By the time I sat down with a glass of Ardbeg Dolce…
Welcome to Dram1 — a whisky blog built from a genuine passion for the world’s greatest spirit.
I’m Martijn van Opstal, founder of Dram1 and creator of the DRAM1 Whisky Awards. This is my personal corner of the internet where whisky lovers — from curious beginners to seasoned enthusiasts — can explore honest reviews, in-depth whisky education, and thoughtful stories from across the global whisky landscape.
With formal whisky training and years of hands-on tasting experience, Dram1 exists to guide, inspire, and help you discover whiskies worth your time.